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Postdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Research Assistant information

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$42.5K

$86K

$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research assistant in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, and 98% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


University Of Nebraska Medical Center rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 993 rated hospitals


Job description

GENERAL REQUISITION INFORMATION
EEO Statement:
UNMC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Location Omaha, NE Requisition Number: 2026 - 205 Department Surgical Oncology 50005675 Business Unit(College/Institute) College of Medicine FTE:
100
Reg-Temp Full-Time Regular Work Schedule M-F 8-5 w/some evenings and weekends Requisition Category Research - Academic Requisition Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Job Title/Academic Rank Postdoctoral Research Associate Additional Requisition Title Appointment Type A1 - REG OTHER ACAD SAL Salary Range Salary Commensurate with Experience Job/EEO Category Professional Non-Faculty (Includes Other Academic) Job Requisition Begin Date 05/19/2026
Position Qualification
Position Summary
The individual will perform surgical procedures on experimental rat and swine subjects according to protocols. The individual will also assist in enrolling subjects in ongoing human clinical studies investigating peripheral arterial disease. The individual will maintain lab documentation. IACUC and IRB protocols are maintained. The individual will help with data management, interpretation of data and preparation of manuscripts and grant reports for both the human and animal studies.
Required Qualifications
MD or PHD or Both
Supplemental Qualifications

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