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Postdoc Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoc information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$23.4K

$55.2K

$78K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Pittsburgh, PA is $55,151.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $62,100.00 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 Pittsburgh, PA?

The most popular types of Postdoc jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Postdoc jobs in Pittsburgh, PA?

For Postdoc jobs in Pittsburgh, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoc jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoc jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 28% Physical, and 72% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,151 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Xu lab

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Postdoc Positions in Image Analysis
The Xu lab at the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University is looking for multiple postdoctoral research associates who will be using cutting edge computer vision and machine learning tools for analyzing cryo-ET 3D image data. Will support on-going research programs in the lab and manage sub-projects, write up results as journal papers.
Qualifications
  • Doctorate degree in Computer Science, Electric Engineering, computational biology, or related fields.
  • A good track of publication records in related areas.
  • Excellent analytical and oral/written communication skills.

Application Instructions
Interested applicants should submit a CV with publication list and contact information for three references, and send an email notification to mxu1@cs.cmu.edu

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