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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate information

See West Virginia salary details

$32.9K

$66.5K

$90.2K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in West Virginia is $66,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $89,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral associate?

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.

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 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 cities in West Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs?

Cities in West Virginia with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,547 per year, or $32 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Marshall University

Huntington, WV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Marshall University rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

556th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Banner Position Number
R10918
Position Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Classification Title
MURC-Biological Scientists
Department
SOM-BioMedical Science - RC5130
Job Description
Position Summary
Duration: Initial term with potential for two additional years (contingent upon funding, laboratory needs, and performance).
Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (includes a 30-minute lunch break).
Position Summary
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct high-throughput, hands-on benchwork to advance lab research timelines and secure publishable data. This role requires strict adherence to weekly experimental benchmarks and data reporting structures.
Key Responsibilities
Core Experimental Benchwork
  • Perform macrophage infections and cytokine ELISAs.
  • Construct, purify, and analyze His-tagged proteins.
  • Utilize LC-MS/MS for metabolomics analysis.
  • Handle in vivo animal work and procedures.
  • Adapt to shifting experimental responsibilities as directed by the Principal Investigator.

Data Management & Reporting
  • Yield at least one piece of publishable data every week.
  • Submit a detailed written summary of data, protocols, and outcomes every Friday afternoon.

Performance Metrics & Expectations
  • Weekly Output: Completion of either two major experiments (e.g., macrophage infections, ELISAs) or three minor experiments (e.g., MIC/MBC, growth curves) per week.
  • Evaluation: Continuous assessment against deliverables, with an intensive evaluation of work ethic and technical capabilities during the initial 90-day probationary period.

Location
MUSOM - Marshall University School of Medicine
Salary Range
Salary is commensurate with experience and internal equity
Required Qualifications
Education
  • Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related biological science field.

Experience
  • No experience required

Preferred Qualifications
Education
Experience
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
MR0888
Open Date
08/14/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
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