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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Pittsfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Pittsfield, MA salary details

$47.4K

$96K

$130.1K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Pittsfield, MA is $95,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,500.00 and $129,500.00 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.

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.

How much do postdoctoral associates make?

Postdoctoral associates typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on the field, location, and experience. Salaries can vary based on funding sources, institution policies, and whether the position is in academia or industry, with some positions offering additional benefits such as health insurance and research stipends.

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.

Does a postdoctoral associate have a PhD?

Yes, a postdoctoral associate typically holds a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in their field. This position involves advanced research and often requires specialized skills and knowledge gained during doctoral studies.

What does a post-doctoral associate do?

A post-doctoral associate conducts advanced research in a specific field, often under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member. They perform experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and may mentor graduate students, typically working in academic or research institutions with specialized tools and methodologies.

Is postdoc harder than PhD?

A postdoctoral associate role typically involves more independent research, higher expectations for productivity, and longer hours compared to a PhD program. While a PhD focuses on completing coursework and a dissertation, a postdoc emphasizes publishing, grant writing, and establishing an independent research agenda, making it generally more demanding in terms of responsibility and workload.
What cities near Pittsfield, MA are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities near Pittsfield, MA with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Pittsfield, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 25% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,958 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Future of Computation Researchers

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY • On-site

$80K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Future of Computation Researchers
Job no: 495575
Work type: Full Time, Part Time, Seasonal or Temporary
Location: Troy, NY
Categories: Research: Future of Computation, Researchers and Research Support
Who we are
Why Rensselaer? Join Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's dynamic global community of changemaker including some of the world's leading researchers, students, alumni, and faculty who ask the important questions and devise the scientific and technological innovations that make the world a better place for all of humanity.
Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world's fastest supercomputers, and IBM's Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world.
Over the past decade, the research portfolio at Rensselaer has been completely transformed. As a top-tier technological research university, Rensselaer has invested in strategic partnerships, talented researchers, and sophisticated research platforms to address the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century.
Today, the Rensselaer research enterprise comprises $104 million in annual research expenditures, supports a diverse range of research centers and platforms, and ensures the advancement of interdisciplinary research in six key areas:
  • Life Science & Biotechnology (Bioscience, Bio Manufacturing, Bioscience, Diagnosis)
  • Future Computing (Data / AI, High Performance Computing, Quantum, Bits/Neurons/Qubits)
  • Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (Energy Solutions, Built Environment, Freshwater, Sustainability)
  • Materials & Manufacturing (Mat. Discovery, Mat. Processing, Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics)
  • Micro-electronics (Mat. & Metrology, Hardware Co-design, Computational Microelectronics, Hetero-integration)
  • Fundamental Knowledge (AstroX, Origins, Cognitive & Social, Financial)

The Office for Research collaborates with important external partners in the federal and state government, foundations and in industry to expand the impact our work and to support our world-class researchers as they improve lives, advance society, and change the world.
The mission of the Office for Research is to drive and support the Research Enterprise, increase Rensselaer impact and visibility, and communicate to the national and international community that Rensselaer researchers are defining the frontiers of discovery and innovation.
Rensselaer faculty and alumni include more than 145 National Academy members, six members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, five National Medal of Science winners, # astronauts, and a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. With nearly 200 years of experience advancing scientific and technological knowledge, Rensselaer remains focused on addressing global challenges with a spirit of ingenuity and collaboration. To learn more, please visit www.rpi.edu.
Are you ready to change the world? Apply now!
Job Summary
Some of the areas that may be hiring researchers and research support positions in the Future of Computing area include:
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/center-computational-innovations-cci
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/institute-data-exploration-and-applications-idea
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/network-science-and-technology-center-nest
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/scientific-computation-research-center-scorec
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/center-mobility-vertical-lift-move
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/center-modeling-optimization-and-computational-analysis-moca

Note: The availability of positions is dependent on the availability of sponsored funding. Not all areas will have all positions, and some areas may be fully staffed.
Qualifications
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate -
    • Candidates must have finished all requirements for their PhD or foreign equivalent at the beginning of their appointment
  • Research Associate or (Sr.) Research Scientist -
    • Opportunities exist for those with a relevant advanced degree, publication record, and/or significant additional years of paid professional experience in a related position. Individuals who possess these qualifications and who have the potential to, or a demonstrated track record of being able to build collaborative external partnerships are especially desirable
  • (Sr.) Research Specialist -
    • Positions require a relevant bachelor's degree / foreign equivalent or higher
  • (Sr.) Research Engineer -
  • Research Assistant -
    • candidates must possess an associate's degree / foreign equivalent or relevant combination of experience, education and training

Pay transparency data:
Pay transparency disclosure: The actual salary/wage that is provided to selected candidates will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the needs of the department, and the final candidate's qualifications, experience, education, and other job-related credentials. The following hiring ranges are provided as Rensselaer's good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.
Postdoctoral Research Associate: $62,354 - $65,000 / yr
Research Associate: $64,000 - $66,000 / yr
Research Scientist: $66,000 - $95,000 / yr
Sr. Research Scientist: $80,000 - $138,000 / yr
Research Specialist: $18.00 - $26.44 / hr
Sr. Research Specialist: $62,354 - 66,000 / yr
Research Engineer: $66,000 - $86,000 / yr
Sr. Research Engineer: $87,000 - $95,000 / yr
Research Assistant: $16.00 - $22.00 / hr
Application instructions
Follow the on-screen prompts to create an application. Please be ready to upload any required documents, such as your resume and cover letter
If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu
Job Posted Date
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Total Compensation and Benefits Information
Rensselaer's Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Rensselaer is recognized locally and nationally for the depth and breadth of its compensation and benefits program. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is committed to the cultivation of a community that is welcoming, inclusive, and above all values learning. We welcome candidates who bring a variety of perspectives to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's work and campus communities. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or other characteristic protected by law.
#LI-DNI
Advertised: 08 Jan 2026 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:
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