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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Swarthmore College

Postdoctoral Researcher

Swarthmore, PA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

We invite applications for an experimental research postdoctoral position in the Smith Materials Lab led by Associate Prof. Hillary Smith in the Physics Department at Swarthmore College. The Smith ...

Rutgers University

Post-Doctoral Associate

Camden, NJ · On-site

$63K/yr

Employee discount programs Posting Summary Rutgers University-Camden, the School of Arts & Sciences, Department of Biology, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate, in the laboratory of Dr.

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$42.9K

$86.7K

$117.6K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Philadelphia, PA is $86,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $117,100.00 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 Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Philadelphia, PA 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 $86,741 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Associate - Control/Sim/RL

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Drexel University

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$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate - Control/Sim/RL

Apply now Job no: 507049
Work type: Full-Time
Location: University City - Philadelphia, PA
Categories: Drexel University, College of Computing and Informatics, College of Engineering

Job Summary

A postdoctoral position in Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics is being offered to support research in bio-inspired underwater robotics, with a focus on the development of advanced modeling and control strategies for multi-limbed swimming systems.

Primary responsibilities include the development of high-fidelity dynamic models of swimming robots, incorporating hydrodynamic and hydrostatic effects, and the design and implementation of control strategies for bio-inspired robotic platforms. The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with experimental underwater robotic systems and contribute to improving the understanding and performance of these systems under realistic operating conditions.

This position is grant-funded; employment is contingent upon the continued availability of those funds.   

Essential Functions

  • Supervise undergraduate and graduate student research related to underwater bio-robotic swimmers, providing guidance on modeling, control development, and experimental validation.
  • Contribute to the preparation of research proposals, present findings at conferences and technical meetings, and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of a PhD or Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering or related field or the equivalent combination of education and work experience (Please review the Equivalency Chart for additional information).
  • Minimum of 0-3 years of experience. 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Expertise in high-fidelity dynamic simulation (e.g., MuJoCo, Simscape), with emphasis on underwater or fluid-interacting systems.
  • Proficiency in Python and MATLAB for control development and data analysis.
  • Experience applying reinforcement learning to control of nonlinear, multi-DoF robotic systems, particularly in locomotion or underwater contexts.
  • Familiarity with CAD and hardware-simulation integration workflows.
  • Experience with robotic hardware and sensing systems is desirable.
  • Familiarity with ROS/ROS2 is a plus.

Physical Demands

  • Typically sitting at a desk/table
  • Typically standing, walking

Location

  • University City - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information
This position is classified as Exempt, grade K. Compensation for this grade ranges from $60,240.00 - $90,350.00 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position will vary based on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

Applicants are encouraged to explore the Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on Drexel's compensation framework. For information about benefits, please review Drexel's Benefits Brochure.

Special Instructions to the Applicant
Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.

Advertised: Jul 29 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Aug 29 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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