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Postdoc Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoc information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$58.2K

$82.4K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in California is $58,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $65,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoc?

Postdocs, or postdoctoral researchers, are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. This position allows them to deepen their expertise in a specialized area, develop new research skills, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or other sectors. Postdoctoral appointments typically last from one to five years and often involve publishing research findings, collaborating with other scientists, and sometimes teaching responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, strong research skills, and a track record of academic publications. Familiarity with specialized research tools, statistical analysis software, and laboratory techniques (where applicable) is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, independence, and effective communication skills help postdocs excel in collaborative and interdisciplinary environments. These skills are crucial for advancing research objectives, securing funding, and building a foundation for a successful academic or industry career.

What is the difference between Postdoc vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdocResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD)Master's or PhD, often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsIndustry, corporate R&D labs, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research centersPrivate companies, government agencies, industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesIndustry research roles and career progression

In summary, a Postdoc is primarily an academic research position focused on gaining specialized research experience after earning a PhD. A Research Scientist typically works in industry or corporate settings, often requiring similar credentials but emphasizing applied research and product development. The choice depends on whether you aim for an academic or industry career path.

What are some common challenges faced by postdocs during their fellowship, and how can they be addressed?

Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing the pressure to publish, and navigating uncertainty around career progression. Building strong communication with mentors, setting clear research goals, and seeking out professional development resources can help address these challenges. Additionally, connecting with peers and participating in interdisciplinary teams can provide support and open up new opportunities for collaboration and skill development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs in California?

The most popular types of Postdoc jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Postdoc jobs?

Cities in California with the most Postdoc job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,249 per year, or $28 per hour.

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - Encalada Lab - MOLECULAR & CELLULAR BIOLOGY

Scripps Research

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

ABOUT US: Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.
POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral AssociatePOSITION SUMMARY:
A Postdoctoral position is available immediately in the Encalada Laboratory at Scripps Research in La Jolla, California, focusing in the areas of image analysis and AI/machine learning within the context of neurodegeneration, aging, and intracellular endolysosomal trafficking. The Encalada lab has established relevant model systems in primary neurons and mice to screen and test small molecule candidate therapies to ameliorate neurodegenerative phenotypes. In our projects, among others, you will have the opportunity to develop and apply machine learning algorithms for the high-throughput analyses of fluorescent or other microscopy images. You will have the opportunity to do research in a superb intellectual setting at Scripps Research, by applying your skills to a combination of projects in cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, and high-resolution quantitative light, super-resolution, and (CL)EM microscopy to your research in model systems including mammalian neurons, mice, human organoids, and/or C. elegans systems.
Research experience with AI/machine learning within the context of image analysis (light or EM microscopy) is highly desirable. Also, knowledge of cell biology, mouse models, and/or light or super-resolution microscopy is a plus but not required.
Applicants must submit the following as attachments as part of the application process: contact information for three professional references, a list of publications (past and/or pending), a brief statement of previous research expertise, and a statement describing postdoctoral research interests.
Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member. These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years. Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair. Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.
Make Scripps Research your next step to advance and develop your career. Click here to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services: https://education.scripps.edu/postdoctoral/
REQUIREMENTS:
Must possess a doctoral degree in cell biology, genetics, neurobiology, molecular biology, biophysics or related field. A pending doctoral degree may be considered with approval of the Principal Investigator.
Highly motivated, independent, with outstanding written and oral communication skills, and with available or pending peer-reviewed publication(s).
COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California's exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $70,304- $75,353. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.
COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
  • Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
  • Full suite of Health and Welfare plans including four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
  • Access to Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Free on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees
  • Paid Time Off - 5 days annually
  • Free, on-site parking.
  • Pet Insurance

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.
EEO Statement:The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.