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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Details Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Postdoctoral Associate Job Category Staff & Executive - Research (Laboratory/Non-Laboratory) Department SHP - Clinical & Preventive Nu ...

Postdoctoral Associate

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Posting Details Position Information Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Position Title Postdoctoral Associate Classification Title Postdoctoral Associate Department Department of Mechanical and Aerospace ...

The Postdoctoral Associate will train under the primary mentorship of Dr. Tomi Akinyemiju , with additional support from junior faculty and senior postdoctoral fellows, within a highly collaborative ...

The Postdoctoral Associate will train under the primary mentorship of Dr. Tomi Akinyemiju , with additional support from junior faculty and senior postdoctoral fellows, within a highly collaborative ...

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Postdoctoral Associate information

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$42.5K

$86K

$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral AssociateResearch Scientist
Required credentialsPh.D. in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., depending on industry
Work environmentAcademic labs, universitiesIndustry labs, corporate R&D
Employer and industry usagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common search intentResearch, academic career developmentProduct development, applied research

Postdoctoral Associates typically hold a Ph.D. and work mainly in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but are employed in industry settings, focusing on applied research and product development. The roles overlap in qualifications but differ in work environment and career focus.

What are Postdoctoral Associates?

Postdoctoral Associates are individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. They work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, typically at a university or research institution. The main goal of a Postdoctoral Associate is to deepen their expertise in a specific field of study, contribute to ongoing research projects, and prepare for an independent career in academia, industry, or other research-related fields.

How much do postdoctoral associates make in the US?

Postdoctoral associates in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, field, and location. Many positions also include benefits such as health insurance and research funding support.

What are some common challenges faced by Postdoctoral Associates when managing independent research projects?

Postdoctoral Associates often encounter challenges in balancing the demands of independent research with collaborative projects and administrative responsibilities. Managing time effectively, securing funding, and navigating the publication process can be particularly demanding. Additionally, Postdocs must adapt to the expectations of their principal investigator and the broader research team, while also building their professional network and developing a clear path toward future career advancement. Proactive communication and organizational skills are key to overcoming these challenges and making the most of the postdoctoral experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, advanced research skills, and a strong publication record. Experience with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and familiarity with grant writing or academic publishing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively share findings and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing research goals, securing funding, and building a successful academic or industry career.

What is the postdoc trap?

The postdoc trap refers to the cycle where early-career researchers, including postdoctoral associates, remain in temporary postdoctoral positions for extended periods without progressing to permanent faculty or industry roles. This can lead to job insecurity, limited career advancement, and a competitive job market with few stable opportunities. Managing research output, networking, and planning for alternative careers are important to avoid this trap.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A Postdoctoral Associate typically holds a PhD, as this role involves advanced research and independent project management. While some research associate positions may accept candidates with a master's degree, a PhD is generally required for postdoctoral roles to demonstrate expertise and research skills.

What does a post-doctoral associate do?

A post-doctoral associate conducts advanced research in a specific field, often working under the supervision of a principal investigator. They perform experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and may mentor graduate students, typically requiring a doctoral degree and strong research skills. The role often involves using specialized tools and adhering to project timelines in academic or research institutions.
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 96% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Associate

Rutgers University

Newark, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Rutgers University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 538 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Postdoctoral Associate
Job Category
Staff & Executive - Research (Laboratory/Non-Laboratory)
Department
SHP - Clinical & Preventive Nu
Overview
New Jersey's academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University-New Brunswick and collaborating universitywide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and five centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.
Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.
Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state-at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, including Piscataway; and at locations in Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Stratford, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Newark's University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.
Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.
Posting Summary
Rutgers School of Health Professions (SHP) is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to work in the Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences, Rawal Nutrition and Health Lab.
The Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences at Rutgers School of Health Professions is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join an active research program focused on maternal and cardiometabolic health across the life course.
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), the Postdoctoral Associate will contribute to one or more NIH-funded research projects led by the lab. The lab's work broadly centers on the development, evaluation, and implementation of technology-enabled interventions aimed at both prevention and management of pregnancy-related conditions and complications (including gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and excessive gestational weight gain) and their downstream maternal and neonatal sequelae. Ongoing projects integrate mHealth and digital health tools, clinical trials, implementation science, and global health, with research conducted in both U.S. and international settings, including Nepal.
The Postdoctoral Associate will assist with scientific and operational aspects of ongoing studies. Responsibilities may include finalizing study protocols; developing manuals of operations and training materials; preparing, submitting, and maintaining IRB documentation; coordinating with domestic and international collaborators; and ensuring high protocol fidelity across study sites.
The Postdoctoral Associate will participate in regular investigator meetings and contribute to study oversight, data monitoring, and interpretation of findings. The Postdoctoral Associate will lead or co-lead data analyses and play a key role in the dissemination of research findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Depending on the associate's interests and career goals, dedicated mentorship will support the development of an independent line of research, including planning pilot studies and preparing grant applications.
This position provides strong opportunities for manuscript writing, grant development, study design, and hands-on experience with innovative research methods and digital health technologies. Priority will be given to candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas: maternal and child health, clinical trials or intervention research, mHealth or digital health, nutritional epidemiology, or implementation science.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following:
  • Plan, coordinate, implement, and monitor research projects, including oversight of study timelines, milestones, and follow-up activities.
  • Develop and refine study protocols and research materials; conduct statistical analyses; and maintain, manage, and review study databases to ensure data quality and integrity.
  • Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) with preparation, submission, and maintenance of Institutional Review Board (IRB) applications, including responsibility for reporting protocol modifications and continuing reviews.
  • Contribute to the preparation of scholarly products, including abstracts, peer-reviewed manuscripts, grant applications, progress reports, and other research dissemination materials.
  • Maintain flexibility in work hours, as needed, to accommodate participant assessments and meetings with domestic and international research collaborators.
  • Perform additional duties related to grant-funded research activities as assigned by the PI.

FLSA
Exempt
Grade
Salary Details
Minimum Salary
20,000
Mid Range Salary
90,000
Maximum Salary
200,000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discount programs

Position Status
Full Time
Working Hours
37.5
Standard Hours
37.50
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Consistent with the current application of Rutgers Policy 60.3.22 or the applicable provisions of relevant collective negotiations agreements, this position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Flexible work arrangements are not permanent, are subject to change or discontinuation, and contingent on the employee receiving approval in the FlexWork@RU Application System.
Union Description
Post Docs - Regular Salaried
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment
Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility
ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Candidate Must have Ph.D. degree in a relevant area, peer-reviewed publications and excellent writing and communication skills.

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • The candidate should have a strong work-ethic & organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
  • The candidate should be proficient in using statistical packages (SPSS, STATA, SAS etc.).

Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • There are no significant physical demands associated with this position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The candidate will work primarily in Newark, NJ and/or New Brunswick, NJ with some remote flexibility.
  • Candidate will have access to a standard computer, phone, and internet access to perform the duties outlined.
  • Data processing licenses will be provided.

Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Number
26ST0430
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus
Newark (RBHS)
City
Newark
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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