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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Calera, AL

RESEARCHER

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

The candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to stem cell research and apply techniques ... Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required or High ...

RESEARCHER

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$65K/yr

The candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to stem cell research and apply techniques ... Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required or High ...

Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Calera, AL salary details

$39.4K

$79.7K

$108.1K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Calera, AL is $79,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $107,600.00 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.

What cities near Calera, AL are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities near Calera, AL with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

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Re-posted 6 days ago


University Of Alabama At Birmingham rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Job Title Postdoctoral Researcher Department Name 311363000 Neurosurg-Laboratory Research School/College School of Medicine Job Description
The Consciousness Lab is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying consciousness and epileptic loss of consciousness. The lab combines human intracranial electrophysiology with advanced computational approaches to study the neural circuitry underlying levels and contents of consciousness.
Research in the lab utilizes recordings from patients implanted with stereo-electroencephalography (sEEG) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes, including both local field potentials and single-unit activity. The successful candidate will work with complex human neural datasets in a clinically integrated research environment and contribute to projects at the intersection of systems neuroscience, epilepsy, and computational neuroscience.
This is a full-time, on-site position based in Birmingham, Alabama. The role is designed for individuals prepared to take ownership of high-value datasets, work independently within a high-accountability environment, and develop a strong trajectory toward independent academic research or advanced industry roles.
Required Qualifications
PhD in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or related field. Strong background in signal processing, data analysis, and/or machine learning with neural or time series data (mastery of Matlab or Python). Demonstrated ability to complete and publish research projects
Preferred Qualifications
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number PF1042P Open Date 07/01/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Nondiscrimination Statement
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Special Instructions for the Position Pre-employment Background Check
A pre-employment background check investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
About University of Alabama at Birmingham

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About University of Alabama at Birmingham

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham is the heartbeat of Birmingham and an integral medical leader in the Southeast. The Birmingham campus is within walking distance of some of the best parks, entertainment, and dining in the region. UAB's three regional campuses expand their academic reach and responsibilities in addition to educating physicians in rural and underserved areas of the state. UAB is experiencing major and sustained investment and growth, due both to its exceptional research faculty and its culture of collaboration. Through concerted and strategic investments in its clinical and research enterprise, UAB has undergone an amazing transformation in the past five years and has strengthened its status and reputation as a leader in medical training, biomedical discovery, innovation, and patient care.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1859