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Postdoc Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

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$24.5K

$57.7K

$81.7K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Ames, IA is $57,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $65,000.00 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 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 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.

Do you need a PhD to be a postdoc?

A postdoctoral position typically requires a PhD in a relevant field, as it is an advanced research role for individuals who have completed their doctoral studies. Some fields or institutions may accept candidates with a master's degree or equivalent, but a PhD is generally standard for postdoc roles. Skills in research methods and academic publishing are also important.

What does a postdoc do?

A postdoc conducts advanced research in a specific field, often after completing a PhD, to deepen expertise and contribute to scientific knowledge. They typically work in academic or research institutions, publish findings, and may supervise students or collaborate with other researchers.

What is a typical postdoc salary?

A typical postdoctoral researcher salary varies by country and institution but generally ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year in the United States. Salaries can be influenced by funding sources, field of study, and experience level, and postdocs often receive benefits such as health insurance and research stipends.

What job categories do people searching Postdoc jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoc jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Postdoc jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Postdoc job openings:

Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,734 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Thermal/Fluids Sciences

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Thermal/Fluids SciencesAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Department of Aerospace Engineering seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to contribute to research activities within the Experimental Thermal/Fluids Sciences Laboratory. The successful candidate will support cutting-edge research and assist in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory.

This postdoctoral appointment will work in the following areas:

  • Conduct fundamental research in the areas of:

    • Plasma thermodynamics
    • Multiphase flow dynamics
    • Machine learning applications for multiphase flow modeling and prediction

  • Assist the laboratory director with daily laboratory operations, including the supervision and mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students.

  • Prepare technical reports and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

  • Contribute to the development of competitive research proposals and other grant-related activities in collaboration with the laboratory director.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

  • PhD or doctoral degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Documented background in experimental thermal-fluids sciences.
  • Research experience in one or more of the following areas: plasma thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and heat transfer, multiphase flows, or machine learning-based multiphase flow dynamics and control.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, as demonstrated through scholarly publications and the cover letter.

Department/Program & College Description:

Iowa State has a long history of educational and research excellence in aerospace engineering. This includes training students for engineering careers in aviation starting as early as 1928, housing one of five NASA centers of excellence in Computational Fluid Dynamics in the 1970's, building the world's first Tornado and Downburst simulator, and housing the only university icing research wind tunnel in the United States.

Over the years, our graduates have distinguished themselves in the aerospace profession. Aerospace Engineering students at Iowa State take a rigorous curriculum in core aerospace engineering sciences and design, and have numerous opportunities to pursue hands-on work both inside and outside the department.

Department Unit/Website:
Department of Aerospace Engineering - College of Engineering, Iowa State University

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:September 1, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:July 17, 2026Posting Close Date:August 27, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19619

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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