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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Postdoctoral Associate information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$52K

$105.3K

$142.6K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 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 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 cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,793 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scientist - Martens Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Primary Work Address: 1550 4th Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA, 94158-0724
Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.
We have an opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Martens lab at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Hanna Martens investigates how aging disrupts the tissue microenvironment by altering extracellular matrix organization, mechanical signaling, and cell-cell communication. We seek to understand how these changes influence cell behavior, tissue homeostasis, and regenerative capacity, with the long-term goal of developing strategies to restore tissue function and promote healthy aging. By integrating molecular genetics, quantitative imaging, single-cell and spatial genomics, bioengineering, and engineered extracellular matrix mimetics with advanced 3D cell culture systems, we aim to uncover fundamental mechanisms of aging and develop strategies to restore tissue function and promote healthy aging. Our laboratory combines mouse genetics, genome engineering, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, single-cell and spatial multi-omics, biomaterials, and engineered in vitro model systems to investigate how the aging microenvironment regulates cell behavior and tissue function. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting https://martenslab.ucsf.edu/
About the Postdoctoral Scientist role:
We are seeking highly motivated scientists with a strong record of research accomplishment, intellectual curiosity, and the potential to develop into independent investigators. Applicants with expertise in aging biology, cell and molecular biology, stem cell biology, developmental biology, extracellular matrix biology, mechanobiology, immunology, bioengineering, biomaterials, or related disciplines are encouraged to apply. We also welcome candidates with strong computational backgrounds and experience analyzing single-cell, spatial, or other high-dimensional biological datasets.
Current research directions include:
  • Mechanisms of tissue aging and regeneration
  • Extracellular matrix deterioration, mechanosignaling, and fibroblast biology
  • Stem cell niches and intercellular communication during aging
  • Engineering ECM-mimetic microenvironments and regenerative strategies to restore tissue function

Application Instructions:
Please include the following items as part of your application:
  • A cover letter describing your research accomplishments, scientific interests, and career goals
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for three professional references

We welcome applicants from diverse scientific backgrounds who are excited to answer fundamental questions in aging biology and develop innovative approaches to restore tissue function across the lifespan.
What we provide:
  • An intellectually stimulating, collaborative, and supportive research environment
  • Stable research support through HHMI
  • Opportunities to pursue ambitious, high-impact scientific questions
  • Individualized scientific and career mentorship
  • Strong support for fellowship and grant applications
  • Opportunities to mentor students and junior scientists
  • Access to world-class genomics, imaging, bioengineering, and computational core facilities at UCSF
  • Extensive collaborations across UCSF and the broader Bay Area scientific community
  • A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

What you'll do:
  • Develop and lead independent research projects
  • Design, execute, and interpret rigorous experiments
  • Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research environment
  • Present research at laboratory meetings, seminars, and international conferences
  • Publish in leading scientific journals
  • Pursue fellowship and career development opportunities
  • Mentor graduate students and other trainees
  • Contribute to a collaborative, rigorous, and supportive laboratory culture

What you bring:
  • A Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, aging biology, bioengineering, computational biology, or a related discipline, completed before the anticipated start date
  • A strong publication record demonstrating scientific creativity, technical excellence, and scientific rigor
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • The ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • A commitment to scientific integrity, mentorship, and a positive laboratory culture

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.
Hiring Pay Range
$70,000.00 - $80,500.00
Pay Type:
Annual
The posted range reflects HHMI's good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate's qualifications, experience, and internal equity.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.