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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Kentucky

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$36.9K

$74.7K

$101.2K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Kentucky is $74,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $100,700.00 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.

More about Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs

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

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

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

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

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,658 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling

Murray State University

Murray, KY • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Murray State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

590th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Details
Position Information
Posting Number
20270003EX
Job Title
Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling
Number of Vacancies
1
About Murray State
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment
Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location
Murray, KY
Employment Term
12 Months
Position Type
Staff - Exempt (Monthly)
Department
Watershed Studies Institute
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
Full-time, two-year position beginning January 2027. A renewal for a third year is possible.
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the Watershed Studies Institute (WSI) and the Department of Biological Sciences at Murray State University. The Moon Lab seeks a highly motivated researcher to integrate empirical greenhouse gas flux measurements with watershed modeling to quantify coupled carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Modeling efforts will initially focus on bottomland hardwood forests but may extend to other systems. The postdoctoral researcher will lead the development of modeling protocols for student researchers, develop a methane sub-model, and mentor undergraduate and master's-level graduate students in modeling and ecosystem lab and field studies. The postdoctoral researcher will also teach one course per semester in biology.
Murray, Kentucky, is uniquely situated near numerous natural areas, including the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky Lake Reservoir, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, and multiple Wildlife Management Areas and state nature preserves. Murray State University also maintains substantial research infrastructure through WSI, including the Hancock Biological Station, the Mapping Applications Resource Center, and the Chemical Services Laboratory.
Minimum Education Requirements
Ph.D. in ecology, biogeochemistry, environmental science, or a closely related field. ABDs with a documented plan of completion by appointment date will be considered.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the expectation of publishing peer-reviewed research, contributing to grant development, and engaging with regional stakeholders is required.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Previous modeling experience is preferred. Candidates with strong quantitative skills interested in ecological modeling are encouraged to apply. Experience with microbial ecology in biogeochemical applications, is also considered a plus.
Physical Demands
Work Hours
Hourly Rate/Annual Salary
$46,148 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Staff Grade
112
Posting Details
Posting Date
07/21/2026
Closing Date
08/21/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, the following items must be included:
  • Letter of application detailing career goals and research experience
  • Curriculum Vitae

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