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Postdoc Research Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Postdoctoral Associate

College Park, MD · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

The postdoctoral research associate is responsible for developing novel computational methodology for high-throughput sequence genomics tasks, as well as for building efficient and robust ...

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Postdoc Research Associate information

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$37

How much do postdoc research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for postdoc research associate in Washington is $22.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.41 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 Washington are hiring for Postdoc Research Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Postdoc Research Associate job openings:
Postdoc Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,807 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Howard University

Washington, DC • On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Howard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
JOB PURPOSE:
The Postdoctoral Research Associate (PRA) will be responsible for engaging in existing research related to our federally funded research projects on cell-cell communication during tissue patterning using the fruit fly as a model system. Specifically, they will advance a research area investigating the role of Notch signaling on cel morphology. Due to this, experience with Drosophila as a model system is preferred. The PRA will also participate in establishing new research directions under the mentorship of the PI. Current funding is for a one-year appointment.
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
None
NATURE AND SCOPE:
Internal contacts include administrators, program staff, faculty, principal investigator and students of Howard University. External contacts Include representatives from other universities, federal agencies, and industry.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
• Independently managing research projects with the goal of publication and presentation.
• Executing research experiments in collaboration with the PI and other members of the laboratory.
• Seeking out and applying for appropriate fellowship opportunities, with the mentorship of the PI.
• Contribute to the training students in routine laboratory techniques and protocols, as it pertains to their career trajectory.
• Presenting their work at lab meetings, local seminars, and local/national conferences
• Contribute to routine lab teamwork activities (e.g., regular lab maintenance)
CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Advanced experience with wet laboratory biology research in any of the following areas: Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology;
• Advanced experience with relevant software, including but not limited to: FIJI/ImageJ or other imaging software, statistical analysis, word processing;
• Ability to apply complex analytical concepts and verify the accuracy of data presented for processing and makes recommendation for resolution;
• Ability to define instructions, adhere to a changing system of specific policies and procedures;
• Competence in both oral and written English to communicate in a clear and concise manner;
• Ability to be well organized and highly attentive to detail;
• Ability to work as part of a team.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Doctorate (PhD) in Biology or a closely related field. Applicants that are ABD should have a graduation plan. Experience with Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) is strongly preferred.
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
$52,500-$62,500

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