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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate information

See Athens, GA salary details

$41K

$83K

$112.5K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Athens, GA is $83,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $112,000.00 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 near Athens, GA are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,001 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Assoc

University of Georgia

Athens, GA • On-site

$47K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Georgia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 625 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details Posting Details Posting Number A00046P Working Title Postdoctoral Research Assoc Department Franklin-Biochemistry About the University of Georgia

The University of Georgia (UGA), a land-grant and sea-grant university with statewide commitments and responsibilities is the state's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (http://www.uga.edu/). UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA was founded in 1785 by the Georgia General Assembly as the first state-chartered University in the country. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,600 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 36,000 students including over 27,500 undergraduates and over 8,500 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 17 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

About the College/Unit/Department College/Unit/Department website Posting Type External Retirement Plan TRS or ORP Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information

8:00a-5:00p M-F (occasional weekends)

Advertised Salary $47,500 Posting Date 08/07/2018 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 08/13/2018 Anticipated End Date Special Instructions to Applicants EEO Policy Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.

Location of Vacancy Athens Area Position Information Classification Title POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOC Pay Grade 000 FLSA Exempt FTE 100 Minimum Qualifications

The appointee has received a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., D.V.M., Sc.D., M.D. , PharmD ), usually recently, in a field directly related to the appointee's assigned responsibilities.

Preferred Qualifications Position Summary

The assigned responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Associate are predominantly research and/or scholarship but may combine these responsibilities with significant (no more than 50%) formal instructional responsibilities.

The appointment can be full time or limited term, and is viewed as preparatory for a full-time career in academia, industry, government, or the non-profit sector.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Physical Demands

Sitting/Standing long period of times

Is driving required to perform essential duties outlined in this position? (This does not include infrequent trips) The successful candidate would have to provide proof that s/he has a valid driver's license when offered employment. Yes Does this position have financial responsibilities? No Duties/Responsibilities Duties/Responsibilities
  • cloning, mutagenesis, purification and characterization of proteins
  • creation and characterization of knock out cell lines and animal models
  • assisting with affinity purification studies and mass spectrometry data analysis
  • communicating regularly and in a timely fashion with the PI regarding research and other issues relevant to the operation of the laboratory
  • assisting with the daily operations of the laboratory
  • assisting with the supervision of the other members of the laboratory
  • other duties as assigned
Percentage of time 100

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About University of Georgia

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Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Athens, GA, US

Year founded

1785