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Postdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Research Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$44.9K

$90.9K

$123.2K

How much do postdoctoral research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research assistant in Oregon is $90,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $122,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral research assistant?

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant is a researcher who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD) and is engaged in further academic or scientific research. Their primary role is to conduct independent or collaborative research projects, often under the supervision of senior academics or principal investigators. Postdoctoral Research Assistants contribute to publications, grant writing, and may also mentor graduate or undergraduate students. This position is typically temporary and is designed to provide additional training and experience before transitioning to more permanent academic or research roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you need a PhD in a relevant field, strong analytical and experimental skills, and a solid record of academic research. Familiarity with domain-specific laboratory techniques, data analysis software like MATLAB or R, and experience with academic publishing are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively help you stand out. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, disseminating findings, and contributing effectively to scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral research assistants when transitioning to independent research roles?

One common challenge for Postdoctoral Research Assistants is balancing the demands of supporting their supervisor's projects while developing their own independent research ideas. Navigating grant applications, building a publication record, and establishing professional networks can also be daunting. Additionally, adapting to new institutional cultures and expectations, especially when moving between universities or countries, requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating with colleagues can help ease this transition and set the stage for a successful independent research career.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research Assistant vs Research Fellow?

AspectPostdoctoral Research AssistantResearch Fellow
Required credentialsPhD or equivalentPhD or equivalent, often with additional experience
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsResearch projects, academic institutions, sometimes independent
Employer and industry usageUniversities, research institutesUniversities, research organizations, sometimes industry
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, independent research

The main difference between a Postdoctoral Research Assistant and a Research Fellow lies in experience level and independence. Postdoctoral Research Assistants typically work under supervision on specific projects, while Research Fellows often have more independence and may lead their own research. Both roles require a PhD and are common in academic and research settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,884 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Research Associate/Postdoctoral Scholar - Open Pool

University Of Oregon

Eugene, OR

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


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Job description

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Research Associate/Postdoctoral Scholar - Open Pool

Apply now Job no: 536173
Work type: Faculty - Pro Tempore
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Biology/Life Sciences, Natural Science, Research/Scientific/Grants

Department: Institute of Molecular Biology
Rank: Research Assistant (Type B), Research Associate, Postdoctoral Scholar
Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins

Applications will be reviewed as needs arise.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with online application, please include contact information for three professional references as well as a current CV.

Department Summary

The Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB) is a research institute that reports to the Vice President of Research and Innovation. We have 18 labs and approximately 150 employees, including 45 graduate students who train in our labs. We have an administrative structure, which includes accounting, purchasing, personnel, PI support, building management and three service centers. Our annual budget is $9.5 million, primarily from federal research and training grants.

Position Summary

IMB at the University of Oregon is soliciting applications for its open applicant pool. Positions are limited duration, funding contingent postdoctoral or research appointments that are full time, part time or short term, contracts not to exceed one year. Possibility of renewal up to a total of three years, depending on program needs, funding, and performance. The successful candidate will have the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Appointments may include research assistants (commonly known as technicians), research associates, and postdoctoral scholars. Research assistants conduct research under direction of a principal investigator; postdoctoral scholars conduct research under the direction of a faculty member for the purpose of acquiring research training; and research associates conduct research with only general guidance.

Minimum Requirements

Minimum qualifications by rank:
Research Assistant: bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related field
Senior Research Assistant I: bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related field plus 6 years of applicable work experience post degree
Senior Research Assistant II: Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related field plus 12 years of applicable work experience post degree
Postdoctoral Scholar: terminal degree in biology, chemistry, or related field
Research Associate: terminal degree in biology, chemistry, or related field
Senior Research Associate I: terminal degree in biology, chemistry, or related field plus 6 years of applicable work experience post degree
Senior Research Associate II: terminal degree in biology, chemistry, or related field plus 12 years of applicable work experience post degree

Professional Competencies

Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.


All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.

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Advertised: December 15, 2025 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close: December 14, 2026 Pacific Standard Time

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