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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536409 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534769 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536638 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533561 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 529622 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location:

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$42.1K

$85.2K

$115.5K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Virginia is $85,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $115,000.00 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 in Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate

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Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535868
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Business
Department: Accounting & Information Systems
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Business / Accounting / Finance, Research / Scientific

Job Description

The Department of Accounting and Information Systems seeks a Postdoctoral Associate to support and advance high-quality research in accounting. The Postdoctoral Associate will work closely with Dr. Robert Davidson and other faculty members on active research projects, with substantial opportunities for co-authorship. The position is fully research-focused, with optional teaching development opportunities available by mutual agreement.
The department offers a collaborative and intellectually engaging research environment and maintains strong connections among faculty and doctoral students
Appointment and Support
Term: One-year appointment beginning August 10, 2026, with the option to renew for a second year
Compensation: From comprehensive insurance plans to retirement options and life insurance, Virginia Tech offers employees a robust benefits program. This full range of benefits, services, and competitive salaries are an integral part of the university's total compensation package and just one of the many things that make Virginia Tech a great place to work.
Research Support: Annual allowance for research-related expenses and conference travel
Resources: Computer and necessary software provided by the school
Key Responsibilities
The Postdoctoral Associate will:
Develop research ideas and contribute to study design in areas including corporate governance and financial reporting
Collect, clean, and manage large archival datasets
Conduct rigorous empirical analyses
Perform literature reviews and assist in positioning manuscripts for submission to top-tier academic journals
Collaborate closely with the department head, faculty, and students to advance departmental research initiatives
Mentor PhD students by supporting their research development and fostering a collaborative research environment
Strengthen scholarly connections among faculty and doctoral students
Present research findings at academic conferences, workshops, and seminars
In addition to collaborative research, the Postdoctoral Associate is expected to actively pursue independent research and participate fully in the department's research culture, including attending workshops and seminars.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should hold a PhD in Accounting or a closely related field such as Finance or Economics.
Ph.D. must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining. Candidates who are near completion of their PhD may also apply.
Applicants should demonstrate evidence of research potential.
An interest in high-quality academic research is important.
The ability to work both collaboratively and independently is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

Commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive academic community

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

April 27, 2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Phyllis Neece at pneece@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 10, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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