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Postdoctoral Chemistry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Chemistry information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do postdoctoral chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral chemistry in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Chemistry researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Chemistry researcher, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in chemistry or a related field with strong expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, analytical techniques (such as NMR, HPLC, or mass spectrometry), and software for data processing is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with colleagues and presenting research findings. These skills and qualifications are vital for advancing scientific discovery, publishing high-quality research, and contributing to innovative projects in academia or industry.

What are postdoctoral chemists?

Postdoctoral chemists are individuals who have earned a doctorate (Ph.D.) in chemistry or a closely related field and are engaged in advanced research training, typically at a university or research institute. These positions, often referred to as 'postdocs,' allow scientists to deepen their expertise, contribute to cutting-edge projects, and build their professional network before seeking permanent academic, industry, or government roles. Postdoctoral chemists may also mentor students, publish research, and apply for grants as part of their training.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Chemistry vs Postdoctoral Chemical Engineering?

AspectPostdoctoral ChemistryPostdoctoral Chemical Engineering
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Chemistry or related fieldPh.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DIndustrial labs, manufacturing, process development
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, chemical companiesManufacturing firms, chemical process industries, R&D centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research focus, academic vs industry rolesIndustry application, process development, engineering research

Postdoctoral Chemistry typically involves research in chemical properties, synthesis, and analysis within academic or industry labs. In contrast, Postdoctoral Chemical Engineering focuses on applying chemical principles to design and optimize industrial processes. Both roles require a Ph.D. and share similar research skills, but differ in their work environment and industry focus.

What are some typical challenges faced by postdoctoral chemists, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral chemists often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing time between lab work and publishing, and navigating grant applications or funding opportunities. Building strong communication with your principal investigator and team members can help clarify expectations and foster a supportive environment. Additionally, seeking mentorship and participating in professional development workshops can aid in overcoming these obstacles and preparing for future career steps.
More about Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Chemistry job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Chemistry jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Chemistry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 51% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Photo Chemistry

Postdoctoral Fellow - Photo Chemistry

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN โ€ข On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Details
Title
Postdoctoral Fellow - Photo Chemistry
Appointment Status
Non-Tenure Track
Department
IU Bloomington Chemistry
Location
Bloomington
Position Summary
The Department of Chemistry in the College of Arts + Sciences at Indiana University, consists of a well-rounded research community with cutting-edge expertise in a wide variety of modern disciplines including analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, and biochemistry.
The Zaleski Lab in the Department of Chemistry at Indiana University is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research position. The position involves the design and synthesis of hybrid molecular and nanomaterial catalysts (see here for recent work: ACS Appl. Bio. Mater.https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.6c00169; Chem. Sci. 2025, 16, 255; ACS Catal. 2020, 10, 5, 3349-3359, Accts. Chem. Res. 2019, 52, 1957. The desired start date is July 1, 2026, although this is flexible in order to accommodate the needs of outstanding candidates.
The successful applicant will use a deep understanding of synthetic and photochemical transformations including laser characterization methods. Motivated applicants with a Ph.D. in any area of chemistry will be considered. A candidate with a strong background in catalyst synthesis and materials design is ideally suited for the project. We seek to employ someone with demonstrable experience materials characterization, photochemistry and spectroscopy.
The Zaleski Lab is a dynamic multidisciplinary laboratory environment. The successful applicant will play an integral role within our growing team and will emerge with a skill set that is equally relevant to academia and industry. Trainees receive regular guidance and feedback to ensure progress is made toward their career goals, whatever those may be. Trainees are also afforded the scheduling flexibility needed to maintain an appropriate work life balance and a safe laboratory environment.
Responsibilities:
1. Manage own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management and coordinating multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines.
2. Adapt existing, and develop new, scientific techniques and experimental protocols to achieve research objectives.
3. Use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment.
4. Assist in setting up a new research laboratory at IU (e.g. setting up Schlenk lines, ordering equipment etc.)
5. Contribute ideas for new research projects.
6. Undertake comprehensive and systematic literature reviews and write up the results for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
7. Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters.
8. Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
9. Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.
10. Carry out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions, and research groups.
Basic Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Chemistry at time of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with organometallic synthesis and relevant analytical techniques (NMR, SXRD, mass-spectrometry etc.) is essential. The preferred candidate will have a deep understanding of the chemistry of the main group elements.
Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Prof. Jeff Zaleski, Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, zaleski@indiana.edu.
Additional Qualifications
Salary and Rank
$50,000/Postdoctoral Fellow
Special Instructions
The initial appointment for this position will be for 12 months. Additional 12-month extension will be available based on performance. A competitive salary along with a benefits package will be offered.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, 5-page maximum research proposal, and contact information for three references to http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33331. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.
"Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.
For Best Consideration Date
06/10/2026
Expected Start Date
07/01/2026
Posting Number
IU-101573-2026