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Postdoc Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535836 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Civil & Environmental Engineering Location:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533561 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535677 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Natural Resources Department: Geography Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534769 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536409 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

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Postdoc information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$58.5K

$82.8K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Virginia is $58,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $65,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 postdocs?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Postdoc jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Postdoc jobs in Virginia? For Postdoc jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Postdoc jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoc job openings:
UVA Engineering Rising Scholar Postdoc-to-Faculty Program

UVA Engineering Rising Scholar Postdoc-to-Faculty Program

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science is inviting applications for the UVA Engineering Rising Scholars Postdoc-to-Faculty Program. This program is designed to encourage early-career scholars to pursue a career in academia by supporting their postdoctoral work before beginning in a tenure-track position at the University of Virginia. The program seeks to recruit exceptional early-career scholars committed to building a collaborative intellectual community and promoting a welcoming scholarly environment. Selected candidates will enhance the excellence of UVA Engineering through their research, educational efforts, and service.
UVA Engineering will fund a postdoc position at an institution best suited to develop the scholarship of the candidate for up to two years. During this time, participants in the Rising Scholars program will participate in multidimensional professional development, including opportunities to develop research skills, mentoring, networking, and building collaborative professional relationships. The Rising Scholars Program is designed to create a seamless transition into a faculty position with high productivity immediately.
Upon completion of the postdoc position, the candidate will join UVA Engineering as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in their home department.
Centrally located in the rolling foothills of Virginia, Charlottesville boasts a thriving intellectual community and cultural life with easy access to recreational venues. This makes Charlottesville one of the best places to live and work in the US, as noted by a large number of national awards and "Best of" lists. For more information about UVA and the Charlottesville community please see http://www.virginia.edu/life/charlottesville andhttps://embarkcva.com/. In addition, the University of Virginia is annually ranked as one of the premier public institutions in the United States. More information about town, the school, faculty benefits and other topics can be found at http://uvacharge.virginia.edu/guide.html.
Qualifications
Candidates will be considered from all areas represented in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. (For a list of departments and research areas see: https://engineering.virginia.edu/departments.) Candidates must be in their final year of graduate school with an identified graduation date/dissertation date. Candidate should have the potential to be a high impact researcher, must be able to contribute to the teaching mission of their departmental home, must have the potential to mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate level, and must have the potential for identifying and contributing to the collaborative environments within UVA Engineering. Priority will be given to candidates that contribute to the strategic plan and mission of the School and University.
The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.This position will also require an Education Verification (FSAKA).
Application Instructions
Please apply online via Interfolio and attach the following required applicant documents:
  • A cover letter identifying why this program is attractive, and possible sites and locations for the postdoc position.
  • A current CV.
  • A statement describing your current research projects, future directions, and broader impacts.
  • A statement describing your teaching practices designed to create a residential learning environment marked by the free and collegial exchange of ideas.
  • A statement describing demonstrated contributions to fostering practices that create climates in which all stakeholders can achieve their maximum potential; please focus on skills and experiences, not personal beliefs and opinions.
  • Contact information for at least 3 references.

Review of applications will occur on an on-going basis multiple times throughout the year.
For questions regarding the program please contact Meara Habashi, Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, at mhabashi@virginia.edu or Brian Smith, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, at bls2z@virginia.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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