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Postdoctoral Biotechnology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Biotechnology information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$58.2K

$82.4K

How much do postdoctoral biotechnology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral biotechnology in California is $58,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $65,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Biotechnology vs Research Scientist in Biotechnology?

AspectPostdoctoral BiotechnologyResearch Scientist in Biotechnology
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Biotechnology or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in Biotechnology or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research institutionsIndustry labs, biotech companies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutesBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral Biotechnology roles typically involve conducting advanced research in academic or research institutions, often focusing on publishing findings. Research Scientist in Biotechnology positions are more industry-oriented, emphasizing product development and applied research within biotech companies. Both roles require strong scientific credentials, but their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a postdoctoral biotechnology researcher?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Biotechnology Researcher, you need a Ph.D. in biotechnology or a related field, strong expertise in molecular biology techniques, and a proven research background. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), advanced analytical instruments, and data analysis software like Python or R is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, collaboration, and effective scientific communication set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for driving innovative research, publishing impactful findings, and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary teams.

What are common challenges faced by postdoctoral biotechnology researchers, and how can they be managed?

Postdoctoral researchers in biotechnology often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and securing funding for their work. Managing these challenges typically involves developing strong project management skills, actively seeking mentorship, and building a professional network both within and outside the host institution. Regular collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and staying updated on the latest scientific advancements can also help postdocs remain competitive and productive in this dynamic field.

What is a postdoctoral biotechnology researcher?

Postdoctoral positions in biotechnology are temporary research roles typically undertaken after completing a Ph.D. in a related field. These positions allow scientists to deepen their expertise, develop new skills, and conduct advanced research in areas such as molecular biology, genetic engineering, or bioinformatics. Postdoctoral researchers often work in universities, research institutes, or industry labs, contributing to innovative projects that can lead to scientific publications, patents, or new biotechnological products. Such roles are an important step toward independent research careers in academia, industry, or government.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs in California?

For Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs?

Cities in California with the most Postdoctoral Biotechnology job openings:

Postdoctoral Biotechnology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Biotechnology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,249 per year, or $28 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Protein Engineering and Bioconjugation for Cellular Force Microscopy

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$84K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar - Protein Engineering and Bioconjugation for Cellular Force Microscopy within the Molecular Foundry division and in collaboration with the Joint Genome Institute (JGI). As part of a multidisciplinary team, the postdoc will develop protein-based nanoparticle probes for use with an Infrared Force Microscope (IFM) capable of sensing and imaging biological forces within and between living systems with unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution.
This position will engineer proteins and develop bioconjugation methods for targeting of our Avalanching Nanoparticles (ANPs, described in Nature 637, 70 and Nature 589, 230) for pioneering measurements of forces in and between cells. The postdoc will also optimize ANP surfaces and delivery methods to target ANP probes in microbial systems. The IFM will employ ANPs to measure intracellular and extracellular forces in live cells, including hydrostatic pressures and forces within biofilms.
We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
You will:
  • Engineer and express proteins for synthesis of nanoparticle-protein hybrids.
  • Engineer proteins with novel cross-linking or other useful properties.
  • Design and generate microbial strains for bioconjugation and ANP-based imaging.
  • Develop live-cell bioconjugation and delivery methods.
  • Perform data analysis, interpret experimental results, and generate figures that convey data and results.
  • Stay current on recent research in the field by reading published literature.
  • Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals.
  • Collaborate and interact effectively with other team members, researchers, and scientists.
  • Present work at national meetings and regular group meetings.
  • Perform work in accordance with EH&S guidelines and regulations.
  • Support and contribute to the Berkeley Lab Stewardship culture.
  • Provide assistance to maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.

We are looking for:
  • Ph.D. degree in Biophysics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Bio/Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or relevant fields.
  • Experience with protein design, molecular cloning, protein expression, or structural biology.
  • Knowledge and demonstrated experience handling and cultivating microbial cultures.
  • Knowledge of mutagenesis, bioconjugation, and protein engineering.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully work in a dynamic, inclusive, team environment.
  • Demonstrated strong written and oral communication skills as documented by seminars/presentations.

Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Experience with optical probes and their use in cellular microscopy.
  • Experience in the design and implementation of imaging-based experiments to answer molecular and systems-wide biological questions.
  • Experience imaging biofilms or related microbial systems.
  • Experience with nanoparticles or nanoparticle delivery.

Required Application Materials:
  • CV
  • Cover Letter describing applicant background and interest in the position
  • Publication List

Additional information:
  • Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by July 1, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time 2 year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
  • Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $84,336 - $94,020. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at:Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

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