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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Colorado

Research Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Research Associate Apply now Job no: 498960 Work type ... Postdoc / Research / Fellow Location: Denver, CO Categories: Research Division: Morgridge College ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$44.7K

$90.4K

$122.5K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Colorado is $90,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $122,000.00 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?

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 Colorado?

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,388 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Denver

Denver, CO • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


University Of Denver rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate
Job no: 498922
Work type: Postdoc / Research / Fellow
Location: Denver, CO
Categories: Postdoc / Fellow
Division: Natural Sciences and Math
About Chemistry and Biochemistry
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry (https://science.du.edu/chemistry) offers undergraduate degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental chemistry and graduate degrees with specialization in biophysical, environmental, and organic chemistry and biochemistry.
Position Summary
The Eaton research group at the University of Denver seeks a postdoctoral research associate to develop and test a desktop L-band imager with rapid-scan and pulse capabilities. The successful candidate will design and build resonators, test and improve electronics for signal detection, and contribute to improvements in system software. The postdoc will develop operating procedures for the instrument and train users. The postdoc will work with undergraduate and graduate students.
Essential Functions
  • Design, build, and test L-band resonators for in vivo rapid scan and pulsed EPR
  • Maintain and improve electronics for L-band imager
  • Work with team members to improve user-friendliness and reliability of software
  • Prepare samples and do experiments to test system performance

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Computer skills sufficient to work with locally-written MatLab software and commercial software for data acquisition and interpretation
  • Quantitative skills sufficient to logically analyze experimental data
  • Knowledge of electronics sufficient to test instrumentation
  • Ability to work as a member of a research team

Required Qualifications
  • PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering or closely related field
  • Research experience with electron paramagnetic resonance instrumentation

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with design and testing of electron paramagnetic resonance instrumentation and resonators
  • Experience with software for acquisition and analysis of electron paramagnetic resonance data
  • Experience with electron paramagnetic resonance at frequencies below X-band

Working Environment
  • Standard office environment.
  • Unexpected interruptions occur often and stress level is moderate to high.
  • Noise level is quiet to moderate.

Physical Activities
  • Ability to work with electronic devices including assembling and using test equipment
  • Ability to sit in front of a computer for an extended period.
  • Occasionally required to move about the office/campus with the capability of transporting objects up to 20 lbs. with assistance.

Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Application Deadline
For consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) November 1, 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Special Instructions
Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu to be considered. Only applications submitted online will be accepted.
Salary Grade Number:
The salary grade for the position is GE8.
Salary Rate:
The salary rate for this position is $63,480.
The University of Denver has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The University may ultimately pay more or less than the posted compensation range. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information, but not based on a candidate's sex or any other protected status.
Benefits:
The University of Denver offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO pass. The University of Denver is a private institution that empowers students who want to make a difference. Learn more about the University of Denver.
Please include the following documents with your application:
1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), marital, family, or parental status, pregnancy or related conditions, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. The University of Denver does not discriminate and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, creed, disability, sex (including sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), marital family, and parental status, pregnancy, genetic information, military enlistment, or veteran status, and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance in any of the University's educational programs and activities, and in the employment (including application for employment) and admissions (including application for admission) context, as required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Americans with Disabilities Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; the Equal Pay Act; the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act; the Colorado Protecting Opportunities and Worker's Rights ("POWR") Act; and any other federal, state, and local laws, regulations, or ordinances that prohibit discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation. For more information, please see the University of Denver's Non-Discrimination-Statement.
All offers of employment are based upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history and National Sex Offender Registry background check.
Advertised: July 24, 2026
Applications close: November 01, 2026
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About University of Denver

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The University of Denver (DU) is a private research institution situated in Denver, Colorado, United States. Operating within the higher education industry, the university provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate academic programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, business, law, and social sciences. Founded in 1864, just a few years after the city of Denver itself was founded, the university’s rich history is characterized by its commitment to the public good. Its mission is to provide top-tier education that promotes holistic student development, innovative scholarship, and inclusive community engagement. Among its notable achievements, DU boasts a substantial network of accomplished alumni, including former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Denver, CO, US

Year founded

1864

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