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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$52K

$105.3K

$142.6K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Berkeley, CA is $105,252.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $142,000.00 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 near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Berkeley, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 76% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,252 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scientist- Gonzalez Lab

Janelia Research Campus

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Primary Work Address: 1550 4th Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA, 94158-0724Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

The Gonzalez Lab at UCSF is seeking an energetic, curious, and driven Postdoctoral Scientist interested in systems neuroscience to join our research team. The Gonzalez lab focuses on identifying the fundamental mechanisms by which neurons process information and control behavior in mice and songbirds. We place particular emphasis on advanced optical approaches, including multiphoton microscopy, Bessel-beam imaging, and closed-loop patterned stimulation, to record and manipulate neuronal activity in behaving animals with high spatiotemporal precision. By combining these cutting-edge optical methods with electrophysiology and quantitative behavioral paradigms, we aim to uncover how neural circuits control complex motor behaviors and how their breakdown contributes to disorders of speech and movement. Our multidisciplinary approach integrates tool development with molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience. For more information, visit www.gonzalez-lab.com

As a Postdoctoral Scientist in the Gonzalez Lab, you will have the chance to bring your enthusiasm, ideas, and expertise to various ongoing and new projects. Some of the research areas we are exploring include:

  • Internal error correction mechanism of motor circuits.

  • Integration of visuo-acoustic sensory feedback during vocal behaviors.

  • Memory and learning during offline periods (sleep).

  • Long-range neuronal communication and stroke.

  • Brain-machine interfaces to enhance learning and performance of complex behaviors.

Application Instructions
Please include the following items in one PDF as part of your application. Cover Letter MUST be included for full consideration.

  • A cover letter including a summary of your research experience, your career goals, and your expertise in the relevant field(s).

  • Your curriculum vitae includes a list of publications with brief (2-3 sentences) descriptions of your contributions to the published work.

  • Names and contact information for at least 3 references.

What we provide:

  • A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

  • One on one mentorship with PI of the lab and daily discussions.

  • Opportunity to work in multiple animal models of motor behavior.

  • Exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and opportunities for professional development.

  • Authorship on independent and collaborative scientific publications.

  • Opportunities to attend domestic conferences in addition to departmental and HHMI retreats to present scientific findings.

  • Being part of the larger scientific community at UCSF.

What you'll do:

  • To be considered for a postdoctoral associate position, ideal candidates will have experience and prior training in some of the following areas:

  • Programming and data analysis (MATLAB, Python, etc.)

  • Optics and engineering (machining CNC/3D printing).

  • Lab animal husbandry and surgical approaches (cranial implants, intracranial injections).

  • Behavioral testing in animals.

  • Electrophysiology, calcium imaging, microstimulation.

  • Histology (vibratome, cryostat, microtome, antibody staining)

What you bring:

  • A Ph.D. in neuroscience, bioengineering, or related field of science.

  • Advanced experience in coding and analysis of large multimodal datasets.

  • Ability to learn quickly and to work both independently and as part of a team.

  • High level of research integrity and motivation.

  • Positive attitude with a problem-solving, resilient approach.

  • Resourcefulness in overcoming challenges, and the ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

  • Willingness to fully participate in lab and departmental activities, to positively engage with other team members and promote their success (e.g., by reviewing manuscripts, participating in practice talks), mentor junior colleagues, and contribute to an inclusive and productive research climate.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Compensation Range

$70,000.00 (minimum) - $80,500.00 (midpoint) - $91,000.00 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Annual

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

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