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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts

About the Opportunity Northeastern University has established a Postdoctoral Researcher position dealing with cutting-edge research in the theoretical and applied aspects of resilient artificial ...

About the Opportunity Job Summary The Dong Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Lab at Northeastern University seeks enthusiastic postdoctoral researchers to join as soon as possible. The research ...

About the Opportunity The Postdoc will be working on multidisciplinary research projects in the Bendable Electronics and Sustainable Technologies (BEST) Group led by Prof. Ravinder Dahiya. BEST group ...

Showing results 41-60

Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Massachusetts salary details

$46.4K

$93.9K

$127.2K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Massachusetts is $93,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $126,700.00 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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,878 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Okeke Lab, Nutritional Immunology

Northeastern University

Boston, MA

$60K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

About the Opportunity

Job Summary

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Nutritional Immunology is available in Dr. Okeke's research lab at the Department of Biology at Northeastern University.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to lead research investigating the anti-inflammatory properties of a bioactive peptide. The project sits at the intersection of nutrition, immunology, and the gut microbiome, with the goal of defining how dietary-derived peptides modulate immune function and inflammation.

The successful candidate will characterize peptide bioactivity in vitro and in vivo, dissect peptide-immune cell interactions, and examine how the peptide shapes the gut microbiome.

The anticipated start of this position is September 2026, with yearly renewals based upon funding and performance. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. This position will be based in the Okeke Lab and will report to lab Director Dr. Emeka Okeke. The position involves working on multiple projects in an active research laboratory. The candidate will work with an interdisciplinary research team including lab members and Dr. Okeke's collaborators on ongoing and new projects. The Lab and offices are located in the heart of Boston, at Northeastern University.

Key Responsibilities

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will

  • Assist with initiating, executing, and completing independent research of interdisciplinary nature involving immunology, nutritional sciences and biochemistry.
  • Prepare and write research papers, presentations, grant proposals, etc.
  • Assist with laboratory management and training of graduate students.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Applicants should have a PhD degree in Immunology, Nutritional sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biology or a related field.

Strong candidates will have a track record of research in peptide quantification and analysis (LC-MS/MS, HPLC, or equivalent), experience studying peptide-immune cell interactions, microbiome analysis (16S rRNA sequencing, QIIME2, DADA2, R/Python) and experience with rodent models of inflammation or dietary intervention studies.

Applicants should be highly motivated and creative, have excellent oral and written communication skills and demonstrated research productivity with first-author publications.

How to Apply

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled. Early application is strongly encouraged. Please submit the following documents:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter detailing summary of research experience and interests related to the advertised position
  • Reference list including names and full contact details of 3 individuals.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
108S

Expected Hiring Range:
$60,315.00 - $85,192.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.