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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 Aug 8, 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?

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
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Tennessee 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 $78,018 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$51K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description


The position of Postdoctoral Research Associate is open in the Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, a NSF funded Materials Research Science and Engineering Center. Research will be performed under the supervision of Prof. Konstantinos Vogiatzis in the Department of Chemistry and Prof. Adrian Del Maestro in the Department of Physics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The researcher will have a primary appointment in the Department of Chemistry and will work on synergistic projects related to AI-assisted simulations of quantum materials. All candidates must have successfully defended and submitted their dissertation before their employment date. The search starts immediately and continues until the position is filled.
The researcher will be responsible to develop, test, and deploy hybrid AI-assisted theoretical/computational modeling of quantum materials and collaborate with researchers from Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Electrical Engineering. Research will involve feedback loops between theory and experiment, evaluating quantum materials design & growth and spectroscopy techniques such as neutron scattering and photoemission.
Responsibilities
  • The Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (CAMM) focuses on applying AI to frontier problems in quantum materials.
  • The ideal postdoctoral research associate candidate will work on assigned research projects as well as mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
  • The postdoctoral research associate candidate must be knowledgeable and experienced in theoretical and computational chemistry, computational physics, and/or artificial intelligence and machine learning.
  • Responsible for presenting and reporting research results and publishing scientific results in peer reviewed journals in a timely manner.
  • Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
  • Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Must have successfully defended and submitted dissertation by hire date, Ph.D. in chemistry, physics, material science, computer science, or closely related field.
  • Experience:
    • An excellent track record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publications in peer reviewed journals.
    • Strong verbal and writing skills.
    • The candidate must be willing to work independently and collaboratively with group members, and preferably also with experimental collaborators.
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Ability to set priorities, multi-task and adapt to ever changing needs with the proven ability to function well in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience: Research experience in artificial intelligence for quantum systems/materials.

Work Location
  • Knoxville, TN, on site

Compensation and Benefits
  • Anticipated hiring range: $51,750 - $65,000
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions
Please complete the on-line application (https://hr.utk.edu/staff-positions) for full consideration. For best consideration, provide the following in the application file:
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Transcript
  • Applicants should arrange for two to three letters of recommendation to be sent directly to kvogiatz@utk.edu, with three letters preferred.

A review of all applications will begin immediately.
About The Department
The University of Tennessee in Knoxville is the flagship educational institution in the State of Tennessee, and the Department of Chemistry is its oldest PhD granting Department. We offer a long-standing tradition of excellence in chemical research and education, stretching from 1947, when the department granted the University's first PhD degree, to the present. We have people from diverse cultures providing an international business environment.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
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