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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$38.6K

$78K

$105.7K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Tennessee is $78,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $105,300.00 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, and why are they important?

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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Immunology

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Immunology

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, TN • On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 999 rated hospitals

Job description

A Postdoctoral Research Associate will be recruited to conduct research on regulatory T cells in the contexts of autoimmune inflammation and anti-tumor immunity. He or she will be guided by PI to design and conduct experiments with mouse models and human T cells isolated from healthy donors. Besides, she or he will collaborate with other team members to analyze the results and present the findings in scientific journals and conferences.
A postdoctoral researcher position is available in Dr. Yongqiang (Yong) Feng's laboratory at the Department of Immunology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/feng). Dr. Feng's laboratory employs innovative approaches and cutting-edge technologies to unravel the functions and mechanisms underlying regulatory T cell mediated regulation of tissue integrity and tumor immune evasion at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. Highly motivated candidates with recently obtained Ph.D.s or equivalent degrees in immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell or developmental biology, or bioinformatics are invited to apply. The candidate will be supported by a NIH grant to explore regulatory T cells based on newly developed experimental platforms. Please contact for more details.
Beyond the unparalleled benefits for postdoctoral fellows at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the exceptional internal support and state-of-the-art facilities create an exceptional environment for training the next generation of immunologists. A cover letter of interest, CV, and three recommendation letters should be submitted to Yong.Feng@STJUDE.ORG.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our 300 faculty work across the spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and population science in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune Magazine's "Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma" and Glassdoor's "Best Places to Work," and is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture.
We are in pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at St. Jude, you will have:
  • A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial Efficiency: Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.
  • Customized Professional and Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for success beyond their training. This includes access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance, and so much more.
  • Competitive Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and invest in talent.
  • A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.

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