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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$42.1K

$85.2K

$115.5K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Virginia is $85,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $115,000.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,222 per year, or $41 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

182nd of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The School of Education and Human Development at the University of Virginia seeks applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate with strong interests in early childhood education policy to join the Study of Early Education through Partnerships ( www.see-partnerships.com ). The postdoctoral research associate will work closely with Dr. Daphna Bassok on large-scale projects related to early childhood education policy in partnerships with policymakers. They will join and contribute to a large and vibrant community of researchers working on early childhood education and policy research.
Applicants should have demonstrated interest in early childhood education research and policy. Particular interests in improving access to high-quality early childhood learning opportunities at scale and/or supporting early childhood educators are encouraged. Postdoctoral research associates will have opportunities to pursue independent research and will also contribute to research on projects in collaboration with PI, SEE-Partnerships research team, and state partners. Postdoctoral research associates may receive mentoring on preparing grant proposals, improving mentoring skills, conducting rigorous research, and forming research-to-practice partnerships. They will have the opportunity gain knowledge and skills through attendance in research meetings, talks, and workshops within the University and externally as appropriate.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Work in collaboration with principal investigators and other faculty and graduate students on research.
  • Effectively design, embed, and oversee research projects to answer questions of science, practice, and policy in early childhood education.
  • Analyze, interpret, and oversee data analyses using a variety of research methods.
  • Disseminate research findings at professional conferences, in scholarly journals, and in practitioner and policy outlets.
  • Participate in large-scale Research-Policy Partnerships in Virginia.

Minimum Requirements
Education: Doctoral degree
Preferred Qualifications
Education:A Ph.D. in Education, Psychology, Education Policy, Education Psychology, Public Policy, Human Development or a relevant social science discipline by the start date of the position.
Experience: Strong methodological expertise in quantitative, qualitative, and/or mixed methods research. Expertise with data analysis software (SPSS, R, STATA, etc.) Evidence of substantive knowledge and background in early childhood education. A track record of publication and/or experience working with policymakers or practitioners.
Physical Demands: This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
Salary Range: The anticipated hiring range is $60,000-$65,000, commensurate with education and experience.
Funding Details :This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability. This position has a term limit of 1 year after which continued employment will depend on department need and funding.
Work Arrangement: This position is offering the option to work in person in Charlottesville, VA, or the option to be fully remote and may be performed outside of Charlottesville, VA, in alignment with UVA's remote work guidelines.
About UVA and the Community: To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Application Timeline: Application review will begin after May 26, 2026.
Background Check : Background checkswill be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
Visa Sponsorship: This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.
How to Apply: Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0083063. Complete an application with the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter is not required but is strongly encouraged

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Reference Check Process: Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.
Recruiter Contact: For questions about the application process, please contact Margaret Weeks .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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Headquarters location

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Year founded

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