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Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment).The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment). The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment). The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment).The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment). The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment). The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include ...

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Postdoc information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
More about Postdoc jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoc jobs? Cities with the most Postdoc job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs? The most popular types of Postdoc jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoc jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Postdoc Research Associate

$64K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

A postdoctoral research position in cancer and genetic epidemiology is available at the USC Center for Genetic Epidemiology within the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences at USC. The applicant must have a Ph.D. (or equivalent qualification) with training in epidemiology, biostatistics and/or statistical genetics. The postdoctoral fellow will work directly with Drs. Chris Haiman and David Conti on analyzing risk factors, genetic and other omics data from diverse cohorts including the Multiethnic Cohort study, the RESPOND African American prostate cancer study and other large-scale genetics consortia (e.g. NHGRI PAGE and PRIMED. In addition to cancer, non-cancer outcomes will also be examined including anthropometric traits, diabetes and biomarkers, such as lipids, glucose, insulin or inflammatory markers. Studies focused on polygenic risk score development, rare variant analysis and health disparities research will be available. Desired is an applicant familiar with many of the most common analytic tools for genetic association studies. In addition, s/he will participate in the presentation of their research and in the writing of publications. The position requires a highly motivated individual with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Experience: Training in epidemiology, biostatistics and/or statistical genetics

Preferred Field of Expertise: Epidemiology, biostatistics and/or statistical genetics

The annual base salary range for this position is $64,480- $72,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years
Minimum Experience: 0-1 year
Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.
Preferred Experience: Training in epidemiology, biostatistics and/or statistical genetics
Preferred Field of Expertise: Epidemiology, biostatistics and/or statistical genetics

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
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  • USC is a smoke-free environment
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If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$125370.htmld

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About University of Southern California

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The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880