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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Washington

Umd

Postdoctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$75K - $80K/yr

The postdoctoral research associate is responsible for developing novel computational methodology for high-throughput sequence genomics tasks, as well as for building efficient and robust ...

Umd

Postdoctoral Associate

College Park, MD · On-site

$50.30K - $176.21K/yr

... to fill a Postdoctoral Associate position with focus on understanding how preharvest and ... Assisting faculty researchers and other collaborators, or acting independently, in planning and ...

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$48.1K

$97.4K

$131.9K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Washington is $97,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, 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 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.

More about Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Washington? For Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,357 per year, or $46.8 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Trace Gas Emissions Modeling in Lickley Lab

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Trace Gas Emissions Modeling in Lickley Lab

Georgetown University

Washington, DC • On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Georgetown University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

238th of 528 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Lickley Lab at Georgetown University is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate. The candidate will work with Prof. Megan Lickley to model global production, emissions and storage ("banks") of highly potent greenhouse gases that are regulated under the Montreal Protocol. The candidate will have an opportunity to use quantitative modeling to inform environmental policy, contribute to collaborative projects, and advance their professional goals. In addition, they will be part of a vibrant and growing community of Earth and environmental scholars at Georgetown University.
The position is based in Washington D.C. for a 1-3 year appointment and can start on a mutually agreed upon date. The salary range is between $65-72K/year with additional support for professional development.

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About Georgetown University

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Georgetown University, located in Washington, DC, US, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the higher education industry. As a private research university, Georgetown offers a wide range of programs and services in various academic disciplines. The institution was founded in 1789 by John Carroll, America's first Catholic bishop, and carries a rich history ingrained in Jesuit values like cura personalis (care for the whole person) and men and women for others. The mission of Georgetown University is to shape individuals who seek to better the world and its diverse cultures, thus creating a positive impact on societies. It is recognized for its fruitful legacy in academics, commitment to social justice, and fostering of global awareness and understanding among its students.

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Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1789

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