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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536659 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences Department: Food Science and Technology Location:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 531516 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Veterinary Medicine Department: Biomedical Science Location:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536557 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Veterinary Medicine Department: Biomedical Science Location:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535769 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Natural Resources Department: For Resources & Environ Consrv Location: Blacksburg ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536250 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535824 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Natural Resources Department: For Resources & Environ Consrv Location: Blacksburg ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536251 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · Hybrid

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536600 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences Department: Ag, Leadership&Community Education ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536321 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

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Postdoctoral Associate information

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$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 jobs near you
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 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: 536659
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: Food Science and Technology
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science, Research / Scientific

Job Description

This postdoctoral associate position is available beginning in August 2026. The successful candidate will conduct research focused on converting agricultural and food processing byproducts into plant-based proteins and other value-added products, while applying machine learning and molecular modeling approaches to guide methodology development and process design. The candidate will also contribute to grant writing efforts to secure internal and external funding and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology or a related field. Degree must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
Research experiences in food science and engineering
Self-motivated, be able to work independently as well as collaboratively
Demonstrated to publish high quality articles

Preferred Qualifications

Research experiences in protein and carbohydrates chemistry
Research experiences in machine learning and molecular simulation
Demonstrated a strong publication record

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

53,550-65,029

Hours per week

40

Review Date

07/01/2026

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 Dr. Haibo Huang at huang151@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: June 9, 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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