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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Montana salary details

$39K

$78.9K

$106.9K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Montana is $78,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $106,500.00 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?

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 cities in Montana are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,898 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Center for Population Health Research

University of Montana

Missoula, MT • On-site

$63K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 14 hours ago

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Job description

Description
The University of Montana's Center for Population Health Research is actively seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to projects on children's preventive health and vaccination led by Dr. Sophia Newcomer, associate professor of epidemiology. The postdoctoral research associate will support at least two projects. One project is developing innovative strategies for population-based measurement of vaccination uptake in Montana, and the other is a national study of pharmacy-based preventive health services. The postdoctoral research associate's key activities will include but will not be limited to leading study design and protocol development, collecting and managing study data, analyzing large national survey and medical claims data, and disseminating results through presentations and publications. It is expected that the postdoctoral research associate will lead at least two publications as first author. The postdoctoral research associate will also be expected to contribute to some project management activities, including organizing meetings with national collaborators, coordinating regulatory applications, and providing guidance to student research assistants.
The NIH-funded Center for Population Health Research is dedicated to advancing the field of public health through support for cutting-edge research and interventions. CPHR fosters collaboration by uniting faculty from diverse disciplines, such as epidemiology, mathematical sciences, exposure science, health economics, and social and behavioral sciences. This interdisciplinary approach builds a strong community of investigators, enhancing the Center's mission to improve human health research. The postdoctoral research associate will have the opportunity to participate in a range of professional development and networking opportunities offered through CPHR, including monthly Work in Progress meetings, an annual research symposium, and support for developing their own grants and independent research.
Position Details
Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program. This is a two-year position based in Missoula, MT. A modest stipend may be provided to assist with moving expenses.
Salary: $63,480- $66,948 annually, commensurate with experience.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Applicants must have a doctoral degree in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, health services research, health policy, public policy or a related field.
  • Demonstrated strong quantitative skills and proficiency in programming in either SAS or R.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience analyzing national survey data, such as from the National Survey of Children's Health, NHANES, BRFSS, or the National Immunization Surveys.
  • Experience analyzing large medical claims datasets.
  • Experience in research dissemination, as evidenced through peer-reviewed publications.
  • Experience mentoring graduate research assistants or training personnel in analytic workflows.
  • Defended doctoral dissertation within the past three years.

Application Instructions
Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin May 27, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
  • Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
  • Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
  • Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information
  • Transcripts- Unofficial

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

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