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Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 23, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - 888704

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


UT Southwestern rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Security


This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information

Salary


Postdoctoral Pay Scale based on total years of postdoctoral experience

Summary


In training under minimal direction to plan, coordinate, perform, and supervise performance of professional level medical or scientific research project in field of specialization for which incumbent is particularly qualified in terms of extensive training and experience.

Experience and Education


  1. Recently awarded Ph.D. with major coursework in field of assignment, no experience required, and less than six (6) years of postdoctoral research experience.
  2. Recently awarded Doctoral degree (MD or MBBS) requiring at least eight (8) years of education beyond high school.
  3. Recently awarded foreign M.D. requiring less than eight (8) years of education beyond high school and at least two (2) years of postgraduate research experience.

Job Duties


  1. Plans, organizes coordinates, directs, and personally participates in assigned scientific or medical research project. Assists in selection of key research personnel. Determines, under minimal direction, specific goals or objectives to be attained. Assigns and reviews work of subordinates.  Plans experimental protocols.
  2. Compiles and evaluates research data, and develops new or revised techniques and procedures based upon such data.
  3. Performs or supervises design, development, or adaptation of equipment or apparatus used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.
  4. Compiles, writes, and submits research results to supervisor. Prepares or assists in preparation of research papers, reports, and abstracts for publication as one of co-authors.
  5. Instructs technicians, graduate students, and other laboratory personnel of lower grade with respect to proper laboratory techniques, use of laboratory equipment, and safety procedures.
  6. May confer with industrial, governmental, or other professional groups with respect to progress or results of research assignment.
  7. Enrolls and participates in the Postdoctoral Certificate Training Program

Essential Functions


  1. Observation: Postdoctoral Scholars must be able to accurately observe demonstrations close at hand and at a distance to acquire knowledge, learn skills, and gather data. Postdoctoral Scholars must possess functional use of the sense of vision.
  2. Communication: Postdoctoral Scholars must be able to communicate in English orally and in writing, and must be able to read and comprehend written material in English.
  3. Psychomotor Skills: Postdoctoral Scholars must have sufficient motor function to obtain experimental data using tactile, auditory, and visual maneuvers. Postdoctoral Scholars must be able to execute motor movements to perform experiments that are reasonably required of biomedical researchers.
  4. Intellectual and Cognitive Abilities: Postdoctoral Scholars must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, synthesize, integrate, and apply information.
  5. Behavioral and Social Attributes: Postdoctoral Scholars must possess the emotional and mental health required to use their intellectual abilities fully. Postdoctoral Scholars must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. Integrity, interest and motivation are all personal qualities that should be assessed during the interview and training processes.
  6. Ethical Standards: Postdoctoral Scholars must demonstrate professional demeanor and behavior, and must perform in an ethical manner in all dealings with peers, faculty, and staff.

Working Conditions


Work is performed primarily in laboratory area.  Working conditions involve moderate exposure to one or more disagreeable elements such as heat, cold, fumes, and hazardous equipment or materials.

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimum require prior approval of the Dean of the Graduate School or his/her designee. 

**Other Duties: Performs other duties as assigned.

  

UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of: race; color; religion; national origin; gender, including sexual harassment; age; disability; citizenship; and veteran status. In addition, it is UT Southwestern policy to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.


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