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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$40.4K

$81.8K

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How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Indiana is $81,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $110,400.00 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 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 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 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 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.

More about Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Indiana?

For Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Indiana are:

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

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

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,796 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Purdue University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Purdue Universityexternal

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and manage research studies related to gifted education, talent development, and related areas

  • Conduct data collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research methodologies

  • Develop and implement program evaluation plans, including collecting and analyzing outcome data and communicating findings to stakeholders

Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

315th of 633 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Position
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE
Job Position Description
The Department of Educational Studies within the College of Education at Purdue University is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, in the Gifted Education Research & Resource Institute (GER²I). GER²I's mission is to promote the holistic growth of giftedness, creativity, and talents in individuals throughout their lives. We offer enrichment programs for talented youth, graduate programs for future leaders, professional development for educators, and conduct innovative research in related fields.
Responsibilities
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with the GER²I Executive Director and his team to:
  • Design, implement, and manage research studies related to gifted education, talent development, and related areas
  • Conduct quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods data collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination
  • Lead and contribute to the preparation of scholarly publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and grant proposals
  • Develop and implement program evaluation plans for GER²I programs and initiatives, including the collection and analysis of outcome data and the communication of findings to stakeholders
  • Collaborate with GER²I staff to support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of educational programs
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students involved in research and evaluation projects, as appropriate
  • Engage with school, community, and university partners to support research-practice partnerships and outreach activities
  • Contribute to the mission of GER²I through service, collaboration, and participation in strategic initiatives

Required Qualifications
  • PhD in Education, Educational Psychology, Psychology, Gifted Education, or related area completed by the start of the employment
  • Demonstrated experience conducting research, including study design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation
  • Experience with qualitative, quantitative, and/or mixed-methods research methodologies
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Additional Desired Qualifications
  • Ability to work collaboratively with a research team
  • Experience managing multiple projects
  • Knowledge of gifted education
  • Experience with program evaluation
  • Experience writing or contributing to grant proposals and externally funded projects
  • Experience mentoring graduate or undergraduate students
  • Experience with out-of-school educational programs

Additional Information
  • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • Remote work may be available for this position with the expectation to travel to Purdue University occasionally

Salary
Salary and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience
Starting Date
October 1, 2026
Application Procedure
This position is a 12-month, Postdoctoral Research Associate position with a starting date of October 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately, and continue until the position is filled. Applications must include:
  • a cover letter outlining the applicant's qualifications, relevant experience, and research experience
  • a current curriculum vitae
  • names and contact information of three references, and
  • a writing sample (preferably a manuscript published in a peer-reviewed, scholarly journal)

All materials must be submitted through Success Factors, but addressed to Nielsen Pereira, Executive Director, Gifted Education Research & Resource Institute, Department of Educational Studies, BRNG,100 N. University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907. Direct questions about the positions to npereira@purdue.edu.
Background Check
A background check will be required for employment in this position
Equal Opportunity
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university

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