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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Texas salary details

$39.6K

$80.1K

$108.5K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Texas is $80,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $108,100.00 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 in Texas are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 69% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,085 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, TX • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Baylor College of Medicine rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Title: Postdoctoral Associate
Division: Ophthalmology
Work Arrangement: Onsite only
Location: Houston, TX
Salary Range: $62,232
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Summary
Dr. Wei Li's laboratory in the Department of Ophthalmology at the Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, is seeking a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Associate. The translational research centers on ligandomics-a novel omics technology developed by the group-for drug target discovery and the development of innovative therapies for ocular diseases that includes glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, wet age related macular degeneration (AMD), dry AMD, fibrotic and oxidative conditions.
This position will focus on investigating neurovascular regulation in glaucoma. Specifically, the postdoc will functionally validate glaucoma selective endothelial ligands and neurotrophic factors identified through ligandomics to assess their disease selectivity, binding specificity, biological activity, pathogenic roles, and therapeutic potential. These studies will employ a range of biochemical, cellular, and molecular approaches. The long term goal is to develop effective neuroprotective therapies for glaucoma and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Postdoctoral Associate with a strong record of scientific productivity, as evidenced by peer reviewed publications, and a strong commitment to research are desired. Recent recipients of a PhD and/or MD are highly encouraged to apply. Experience in molecular biology, cell biology, protein biochemistry, and/or animal research is strongly desirable. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required, as the position involves preparing manuscripts and applying for postdoctoral fellowships. The lab offers robust opportunities for career development.
Baylor College of Medicine typically follows similar to the NIH stipulated stipend guidelines for Postdoctoral Associates.
Job Duties
  • Focuses on drug target discovery, validation, and therapeutic development for glaucoma.
  • Investigates the roles of individual protein targets identified through ligandomics in disease mechanisms and evaluate their therapeutic potential for neuroprotective treatment.
  • Works on additional projects in the lab that includes mechanistic studies and therapeutic development for diabetic retinopathy, wet and dry age related macular degeneration (AMD), oxidative stress, and fibrosis.
  • Presents research findings, write manuscripts, and prepare postdoctoral fellowship applications.
  • Supervises graduate, medical, undergraduate, and high school students.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
  • No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of ophthalmology and experience in ophthalmic or animal surgery skills are not necessary but a plus.
  • Demonstrates scientific productivity with peer-reviewed publications and strong commitment to scientific research.
  • Experience in molecular biology, cell biology, protein biochemistry and/or animal research are desired.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Requisition ID: 24849

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