1

Postdoc Research Associate Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Supervises postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, and other lab personnel including hiring ... D. in the appropriate scientific field and Brown appointment at Associate Professor or Professor ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Postdoc Research Associate information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do postdoc research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for postdoc research associate in Rhode Island is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a Postdoc Research Associate within a research institution?

As a Postdoc Research Associate, you will frequently collaborate with principal investigators, graduate students, and fellow postdocs both within your department and across interdisciplinary teams. These collaborations often involve co-authoring research papers, designing experiments, and sharing specialized expertise or equipment. Many institutions also encourage postdocs to participate in seminars, lab meetings, and grant-writing sessions, which foster networking and skill development. Such teamwork not only enriches your research but also broadens your professional network, which can be crucial for future career advancement.

What is the difference between Postdoc Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoc Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsUniversities, research centers, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and government researchAcademia, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Postdoc Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in experience level and career stage. Postdoc Research Associates are typically early-career researchers with a Ph.D. working on specific projects, often aiming for academic careers. Research Scientists usually have more experience, may hold advanced degrees, and work on broader research initiatives in academia or industry. Both roles require strong research skills and doctoral credentials, but their responsibilities and career paths differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, robust research experience, and advanced analytical skills. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and scientific publishing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration are essential soft skills for presenting findings and working within research teams. These skills ensure high-quality research output, effective teamwork, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What is a Postdoc Research Associate?

A Postdoc Research Associate is an individual who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in advanced academic or scientific research, usually on a temporary contract. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, contributing to ongoing research projects and often leading their own studies. Their main goal is to gain further research experience, publish findings, and develop skills needed for academic or industry careers. Postdoc positions are common in universities, research institutes, and some private sector organizations.
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Postdoc Research Associate jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Postdoc Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Associate job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,472 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical Chemistry

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical Chemistry

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Brown University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
A new theoretical chemistry group at Brown, led by Prof. Matthew Coley-O'Rourke, is seeking to hire a postdoctoral scholar. The position will primarily focus on method development for the study of (i) coherent quantum dynamics in open systems and/or (ii) strongly correlated electronic structure in quantum materials. Applicants may also propose other compelling projects in quantum science that align with the group.
A successful applicant will have demonstrated experience in one or more of the following: (i) simulation of quantum dynamics, (ii) development and implementation of novel numerical methods for quantum many-body systems, (iii) correlated electronic structure theory, (iv) tensor network algorithms. Applications should be submitted by March 1, 2026 for full consideration; although assessment will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Selected candidates who have not completed all requirements for their doctoral degree by the position state date will be appointed as a Research Associate at a reduced salary until all degree requirements are completed.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment.
Qualifications
PhD Chemistry or related field
Application Instructions
Candidates should submit all application materials (CV and cover letter) at https://facultysearch.interfolio.com/10128.
Candidates should address in their cover letter how they would contribute to the research and/or teaching missions of our diverse and inclusive university community.

What Brown University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom