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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in California

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$84.8K

$115K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in California is $84,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Postdoctoral Research Associate?

A Postdoctoral Research Associate, often called a postdoc, is a person who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in scholarly research as part of a temporary position, usually at a university or research institution. The role is designed to deepen their expertise in a specific field, contribute to research projects, publish academic papers, and develop skills for future independent research or academic positions. Postdocs typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator (PI) and may also mentor graduate or undergraduate students.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in a relevant field, strong research methodology skills, and a track record of scholarly publications. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, or programming languages is often required, depending on the research area. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective written and verbal communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality research, contributing to scientific advancement, and securing future academic or industry positions.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral Research AssociateResearch 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 academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government labs, research institutesPrivate companies, biotech, pharma, tech firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral Research Associates typically hold a Ph.D. and work in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but may work in industry settings with broader responsibilities, including product development and applied research. The main difference lies in the work environment and career stage, with Postdoctoral Research Associates usually in early career research roles and Research Scientists in more advanced, industry-focused positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Postdoctoral Research Associates when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral Research Associates often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple research projects, securing independent funding, and developing a unique research identity separate from their advisor. Navigating the transition also involves building professional networks and gaining experience in grant writing, mentoring, and publishing as a lead author. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating across disciplines can help ease these challenges and support a successful move to an independent research career.

What Is a Postdoctoral Research Associate?

Postdoctoral research associates are professionals who have completed their doctorate and are continuing their research to gain hands-on experience before starting their academic careers. Their duties usually include researching with the support of a small team and writing papers for academic journals. Depending on the field of research, a postdoctoral research associate may also have other responsibilities. These positions are typically short-term.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Research Associate

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

OUR STATEMENT
The San Jose State University Research Foundation (SJSURF) is committed to building a work environment where everyone can show up as their own self and have an opportunity to contribute, develop, and advance in their career. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are core values of the organization. We strive to attract, retain, and develop employees who reflect the community and society where we work and live. The Research Foundation aims to develop a culture where everyone feels welcome, shares their views, and where differences in backgrounds and perspectives are seen as adding value.

GENERAL NATURE OF POSITION

The "AI is only as good as its users: Advancing students' informed use of AI in higher education" grant project is seeking a highly motivated, skilled postdoctoral research associate to join our research team as we collaborate with SJSU faculty, university and industry leaders to design, implement and refine a curriculum that fosters AI literacy. This multi-year project, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, offers a unique opportunity to engage in design-based research while managing project activities including curriculum design, faculty professional development and project dissemination. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background, complemented by practical experience in project management and/or relevant work in university-based settings.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead and collaborate on research initiatives, manage tasks from inception to completion, and ensure timely execution of project activities.

  • Gather data on curriculum and faculty professional learning by collaborating with faculty, university leaders, and researchers.

  • Prepare and present research findings to various audiences including academic scholars, project stakeholders, and educators.

  • Monitor project progress, evaluate outcomes, and suggest improvements based on data analysis.

  • Coordinate administrative support, maintain project websites and databases, and manage logistics for meetings and events.

  • Communicate with project partners, assist with budget monitoring, and contribute to overall project management, including reports to funder.

INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS

Reports to the project investigator (PI) and co-project investigator (Co-PI) Frequently interacts with faculty participants, key personnel, and student research assistants as well as university staff.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist the PI and Co-PI in overseeing student research assistants. Supervise student research assistants directly in research areas led by the postdoctoral researcher.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience Required

  • Ph.D. in one of the social sciences, education or learning sciences.

  • Experience with AI education.

  • Experience with independently carrying out qualitative and/or quantitative research projects, including data collection, cleaning, and analysis.

  • Experience with IRB applications and reporting.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Strong organizational and time management skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences.

  • Proficient in qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis and research methodologies.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Suite, and statistical and/or qualitative analysis software.

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

  • Strong project management skills with demonstrated experience in overseeing research projects.

  • Planning for convenings and events.

A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the SJSURF. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or the continued employment of current SJSURF employees who apply for the position.

NOTE: This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. The order in which duties and responsibilities are listed is not significant.

Compensation Range:

$75,000 Annually
Exempt, Benefited

BENEFITS
The SJSURF provides an excellent benefits package to benefited employees. The comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Four company health insurance plans to choose from (employee contributions differ according to plan and level of coverage).

  • Employer-paid dental and vision for both employee and eligible dependents.

  • Life, AD&D, LTD with supplemental coverage opportunities.

  • 14 paid federal & state holidays.

  • Retirement Plan: 403 (b) employee contribution plan component and a 403 (b) employer contribution component, which vests immediately.

  • Vacation-hour accruals and separate sick-hour accumulations.

  • Employee discounts.

  • Paid training and professional-development conferences.


Please visit the Benefits & Compensation page on the SJSURF website for more detailed information.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
The SJSURF is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with physical or mental disabilities in the employment, recruitment, examination, interviewing, and hiring processes. If you are a job seeker with a physical or mental disability, and you require a reasonable accommodation to search, apply, or interview for a job opening or otherwise need a reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process, please contact us at foundation-jobs@sjsu.edu. In the email message, please indicate your full name, phone number and the type of assistance required. You must not reveal the underlying medical reason for your needed reasonable accommodation or otherwise disclose confidential medical information.
ABOUT THE SJSU RESEARCH FOUNDATION
SJSURF employment is separate and distinct from San Jose State University (SJSU) or state of California employment. SJSURF employees are not employees of SJSU or of the state of California. SJSURF is a non-profit auxiliary of SJSU. SJSURF is totally self-supported. The majority of the organization's funding comes from the federal government, and other public and private entities. With annual revenues totaling over $65 million, programs managed through SJSURF cover a rich diversity of applied research, public services, and educational-related activities.
San Jose State University Research Foundation is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sex, genetic information, sexual orientation, military and veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. It also prohibits unlawful discrimination based on the perception that anyone has any of those characteristics, or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics.
It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. All employment practices such as recruitment, selection, promotions, and other terms and conditions of employment are administered in a manner designed to ensure that employees and applicants for employment or services are not subjected to discrimination. We are committed to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and dignity. This policy is in accordance with federal, state and local laws and reaffirms the Research Foundation's continuing commitment to both the spirit and intent of equal employment opportunity laws and policies.
San Jose State University Research Foundation is an EOE M/F/Vet/Disability. Learn more about our organizations EEO and AAP policy by visiting our website HERE. Data metrics on the AAP is available for review upon request. Please also visit OFCCP for additional resources: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters.
If you have any questions or need assistance or an accommodation in completing this application, please contact Research Foundation HR at (408) 924-5582.

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