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Postdoctoral Fellow Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Postdoctoral Fellow

Washington, DC · On-site

$53K/yr

The Postdoctoral Fellow or Research Associate will be responsible for conducting experiments, data analyses, presentations, and publications, following the Principal Investigator's instructions and ...

Howard

Postdoctoral Fellow

Washington, DC · On-site

$53K/yr

The Postdoctoral Fellow or Research Associate will be responsible for conducting experiments, data analyses, presentations, and publications, following the Principal Investigator's instructions and ...

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Postdoctoral Fellow information

See Washington, DC salary details

$28.3K

$66.8K

$94.6K

How much do postdoctoral fellow jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral fellow in Washington, DC is $66,835.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $75,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral fellow?

A Postdoctoral Fellow is a researcher who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and undertakes further academic or scientific training under the supervision of a senior researcher. The main goal of a postdoctoral fellowship is to deepen expertise in a specific field, develop independent research skills, and contribute to scholarly publications. Postdoctoral Fellows often work on funded research projects, teach, and mentor graduate students, preparing them for academic or industry careers. These positions are typically temporary, lasting from one to three years.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral fellow?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Fellow, you need advanced research skills, subject matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Experience with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and grant writing is often required. Strong analytical thinking, independence, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills enable significant contributions to research projects, successful dissemination of findings, and progression toward academic or industry leadership roles.

What are some common challenges postdoctoral fellows face when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral Fellows often encounter challenges such as balancing the demands of publishing high-impact research with developing their own independent research agenda. Navigating grant applications and building a professional network outside their mentor's circle can also be difficult. Additionally, learning to manage time effectively while taking on mentorship or teaching responsibilities is essential for career advancement. Overcoming these challenges often requires proactive communication, seeking out collaborative opportunities, and leveraging institutional resources for professional development.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Fellow vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral FellowResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsIndustry, corporate R&D, or private labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government research agenciesBiotech, pharma, tech companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Postdoctoral Fellows typically hold a Ph.D. and work in academic or research settings, focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but work in industry, applying research to product development or innovation. While both roles involve research, Postdoctoral Fellows are usually in training positions, whereas Research Scientists are more experienced professionals in industry environments.

How much do postdoctoral fellows get paid?

Postdoctoral fellows typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on the field, location, and funding source. Salaries can vary based on experience, institution, and whether the position is in academia or industry.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Fellow jobs in Washington, DC?

For Postdoctoral Fellow jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Fellow jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Fellow jobs in Washington, DC are:

Postdoctoral Fellow jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Fellow job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,835 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Howard University

Washington, DC • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Howard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
JOB PURPOSE:
The Department of Physiology & Biophysics at Howard University College of Medicine is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow or Research Associate interested in pregnancy-related disorders, such as gestational diabetes mellitus, and their long-term impact on the health of both the mother and offspring, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Our research will apply conventional life science technologies and cutting-edge technologies, including gene manipulations and multiple omics in the study of primary cells, cell and animal models in vivo, ex vivo, or in vitro. The Postdoctoral Fellow or Research Associate will be responsible for conducting experiments, data analyses, presentations, and publications, following the Principal Investigator's instructions and participating in the conceptualization and design of research studies. All necessary training can be provided. Evening and weekend work may be required, depending on the progress of the experimentation.
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
N/A
NATURE AND SCOPE:
The candidate will use personal protective equipment (furnished) and work around chemical fumes. May work around standard office conditions. Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation. May work around biohazards.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
  • Performs basic molecular biology techniques including gel electrophoresis; genotyping of mouse models, growth of bacteria and preparation of plasmids DNA, cloning, and mutagenesis; isolation of DNAs, RNAs and proteins from mammalian cells and tissues samples.
  • Perform PCR and RT-PCR, western blotting, mitochondrial analyses, mammalian cell culture, treatment and analysis, as well as other standard techniques for biochemical, cellular and molecular biology.

  • Able to conduct general laboratory maintenance and activities such as preparing buffer and reagents for biochemical, molecular, cellular and histological tests, perform cell and tissue-based experimentation and mouse based in vitro and in vivo analyses.
  • Provide help to the laboratory personnel and train high schoolers, undergraduate and graduate students, medical students and residents in the laboratory settings.

CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Ambitious and highly motivated person to lead studies focused on elucidating the underlying mechanisms related to placental mitophagy, metabolism and communications with other major organs.
• To perform assignments, requiring at least a basic working knowledge of scientific methods, computer, or experimental testing. Assist the Principal Investigator with specific phases of research projects.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
For the title of Postdoctoral Fellow, a Ph.D. in Biomedical science/Genetics/Cell Biology/Biochemistry is required. For the title of Research Associate, B.S. and M.S. in life sciences or related disciplines may be eligible for this position, depending on the applicant's research background and skills.
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
43,00-$53,000

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