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Postdoc Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

In addition to research and teaching activities, this candidate will also participate in graduate student and postdoctoral training. Clinical practice opportunities also exist for candidates with ...

Cancer Radiation Biologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$201.50/hr

In addition to research and teaching activities, this candidate will also participate in graduate student and postdoctoral training. Clinical practice opportunities also exist for candidates with ...

Showing results 21-40

Postdoc information

See Madison, WI salary details

$25.2K

$59.5K

$84.2K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Madison, WI is $59,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $67,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Postdoc jobs in Madison, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoc jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoc jobs in Madison, WI are:

Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, 60% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,481 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Cancer Immunotherapy/Tumor Immunology (RISE THRIVE)

Wisconsin

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in interdisciplinary and collaborative research efforts, including applying for research grants and disseminating findings through publications and conferences.

  • Conduct innovative research in cancer immunotherapy, tumor immunology, or related fields, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate knowledge into clinical practice.

  • Engage in teaching activities related to the biology of cancer or related fields, including lectures, conferences, and training of residents, fellows, and medical students.


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:FacultyEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Assistant ProfessorJob Summary:

The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center seeks an excellent candidate in a tenure-track faculty position; Assistant Professor, Associate Professor or Professor, with an interest in laboratory, translational or clinical research of cancer with expertise in cancer immunotherapy (antibody or cellular therapies), tumor immunology or stem cell transplant. Candidates with actively funded research programs are encouraged to apply. Approximately 75% time will be spent in development of, or continued growth in, an independent research program; 25% time will be spent on clinical care and/or teaching activities. The candidate will be expected to participate in interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts with other departments, schools and colleges. Joint appointments in other departments and schools at the University of Wisconsin can be arranged based upon the specific candidate. Salary is competitive and contingent on experience and qualifications.


We are located within the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, and collaborate closely with UW Health, the American Family Children's Hospital and the William S. Middleton Veterans Hospital as well as the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Center, the Program for Advanced Cell Therapy and Wisconsin Blood Cancer Research Institute. We participate in numerous research consortia and encourage translation of laboratory research into clinical trials, and conduct many novel investigator-initiated trials as well as industry-sponsored studies.


We offer a friendly, collegial work environment and support mentoring at all levels as well as work-life balance. Modern, well-equipped laboratory space will be provided, as well as start-up laboratory support. Madison, WI, is the state capitol and a medium-sized city and college town, with abundant recreational, cultural and culinary activities, outstanding schools and affordable cost of living.


Key job responsibilities:


Clinical Responsibilities:
If a physician-scientist, provide patient clinical care, which might include direct patient care at UW Health locations.


Teaching Responsibilities:
Participate in the teaching efforts in biology of cancer or related field within the Department. Teaching responsibilities will include lectures, conferences, and daily training of residents, fellows, and medical students (if on clinical service).


Service and Administrative Responsibilities:
Participate in administrative and committee work to support the clinical and scholarly missions of UW Health and the School of Medicine and Public Health. Participate in interdisciplinary and collaborative research and education efforts with other departments, schools, and colleges. Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, fostering a collaborative and learningoriented environment. Serve on research mentor committees as needed.


Research Program Responsibilities:
Conduct innovative research. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of clinicians, and researchers from multiple schools and colleges on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus to integrate knowledge into clinical practice to improve the quality and quantity of life for patients. Apply for research grants and funding opportunities to support ongoing projects and innovative research initiatives. Participate in interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts with other departments, schools, and colleges. Disseminate research findings through scientific publications, presentations at scientific conferences and presentations. Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulations while conducting research involving human subjects and animal models.

Remote/Partial/Onsite

  • This position may require some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non-campus work location.

Caregiver information

  • This position has been identified as a position of trust with access to vulnerable populations. The selected candidate will be required to pass an initial caregiver check to be eligible for employment under the Wisconsin Caregiver Law and then every two years.

Multiple titles

  • Applicants for this position will be considered for the following titles Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.


Department unknonwn

  • The SMPH home department will be determined at the time of hire.

Key Job Responsibilities:Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health

Our mission is a commitment to defeating cancer through rapid application of groundbreaking research, prevention, and treatment. The University of Wisconsin (UW) Carbone Cancer Center has been an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1973. UW Carbone is an integral part of the UW School of Medicine and Public Health and UW Health, bringing together more than 330 physicians and scientists from 50 departments and nine schools to conduct research and translate laboratory discoveries into new patient treatments. UWCCC builds community by creating a collaborative, respectful, and welcoming environment in which all faculty, students, and staff will thrive.

This position is part of the Wisconsin Research, Innovation and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Initiative. Through accelerated and strategic faculty hiring, research infrastructure enhancement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and increased student and educational opportunities, RISE addresses complex societal challenges of importance to the state, nation and world. Building on UW-Madison's strengths, RISE expands the University's successful track record of connecting with communities and industry on collaborative solutions.

Over the next three academic years, UW-Madison will substantially increase current hiring levels, bringing 150 new RISE faculty to campus. Candidates hired through RISE will join a community of scholars working across disciplines, schools and colleges on research, teaching and outreach endeavors. The community will engage regularly in venues such as seminar series and colloquia to share ongoing projects and identify opportunities to work together. The University will support the community, facilitating access to research infrastructure, and funding to support broad and rich collaboration.


Further information regarding RISE can be found at: https://rise.wisc.edu/

Compensation:

Negotiable, 12 month


Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as competitive salary, generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts including retirement benefits along with generous academic support. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage and the SMPH Academic Staff Benefits Flyer

Required Qualifications:
  • Independent faculty member with active extramural funding in the area of cancer immunotherapy/tumor immunology

  • Record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national/international meetings

  • Experience with teaching university level courses and mentoring undergraduate, medical students, graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows

  • The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate that they have successfully obtained extramural funding with at least one NIH R01-level grant as a Principal Investigator, or equivalent from a relevant extramural funding agency or sponsor.

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience with research in laboratory, translational or clinical research of cancer, but with a preference in expertise in cancer immunotherapy (antibody or cellular therapies), tumor immunology or stem cell transplant.

  • WI medical license is required by start date of position, if a physician performing clinical work.

  • The successful candidate will have academic credentials sufficient for appointment at the Tenure Track rank of Professor, Associate Professor or Assistant Professor

Education:

Required MD, MD and PhD, or PhD or equivalent by start of appointment in immunology, cancer biology, biological sciences, or a related field and have research interests broadly related to the biology of cancer.

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under Apply Now. You will be prompted to upload the following documents.
Current Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover letter describing your interest in this position, synergy with the cancer center and detailing their training and experience relating to the required qualifications referenced above.


Top candidates will be asked to submit the following:
Statement of research (maximum of 3 pages) describing your current and future directions.
Three (3) professional references, including your current or most recent supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice.


Please note, there is only one attachment field. You must upload all of your documents in the attachment field.

The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process. We will notify selected applicants to participate further in the selection process directly. References will be requested of final candidates. All applicants will be notified after the search is complete and a candidate has been selected.


The deadline for assuring full consideration is October 23, 2025; however, the position will remain open and applications may be considered until the position is filled.

Contact Information:

Devonne Tucker, dtucker@wisc.edu, 608-263-9404
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.


The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.


To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.


Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.