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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Columbus, OH

Ohio State University

Postdoctoral Researcher

Columbus, OH · On-site

$62K - $63K/yr

Postdoctoral Researcher Department:FAES | Entomology This Postdoctoral researcher will contribute ... They will apply for appropriate grant and fellowship funding to support their research. They will ...

The Ohio State University

Postdoc Scholar

Columbus, OH · On-site

... of postdoctoral researchers and graduate students; or perform additional duties as assigned. Additional Information: Required Education: PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology ...

Ohio State University

Researcher

Columbus, OH · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

... postdoctoral assistants. Required Qualifications: Master's Degree in Chemistry or equivalent ... a Research Senior Associate to join our team. The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest ...

Ohio State University

Post Doctoral Scholar

Columbus, OH · On-site

... research data, administration of both caregiver and child measures and assessments, and conduct data management tasks. The incumbent assists with the supervision of Graduate Associates, providing ...

All JobsPostdoctoral Research Associate JobsPostdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Columbus, OH

Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$39.7K

$80.3K

$108.9K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Columbus, OH is $80,316.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $108,400.00 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 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?

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 cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Columbus, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,316 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Research Associate

Columbus, OH

Ohio State University
Scientific Research and Development Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Ohio State Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

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Job Title:Research AssociateDepartment:Medicine | School Biomedical Sciences Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology

Research Associate participates in planning, design, execution, and management of research projects in a foundational (basic) biological/health science research laboratory investigating DNA damage response pathways, DNA repair mechanisms, and nucleic acid-based therapeutics in the Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology; participates in developing and implementing goals and objectives of studies; designs and executes complex laboratory experiments; works with antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), siRNA, or miRNA, and related oligonucleotide-based therapeutic platforms; collects, analyzes and interprets research data; assists with development and implementation of new and/or revised research methodologies and techniques; tests experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical methods and make recommendations for utilization; assists in establishment of controls, criteria and research standards; performs critical analysis of literature relevant to research being undertaken; assists in the preparation of research papers and manuscripts for publication and presentation at national and conferences and workshops, and in the writing of project reports, articles and other documents; assists principal investigator in the preparation of proposals to obtain new or renewal of extramural funding in support of research; coordinates laboratory activities and work assignments of postdoctoral researchers, graduate and undergraduate students, and laboratory research staff; oversees and coordinates periodic maintenance and testing of laboratory equipment; performs additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Education Required

Bachelor's Level Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education

Master's degree or higher in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related biomedical science field is preferred.

Required Qualifications

3 years of relevant experience required with Associate's Degree, or 1 years of relevant experience required with Bachelor's Degree. Ability to translate, adapt and apply academic and/or practical knowledge in the conduct of biological/health science research is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Research experience in DNA damage response and DNA repair. Experience designing and evaluating oligonucleotide-mediated gene knockdown or gene modulation experiments.

Function: Research and Scholarship

Sub Function: Research

Career Band: S

Career Level: S1

Additional Information:Location:Pelotonia Research Center (1040)Position Type:Term (Fixed Term)Scheduled Hours:40Shift:First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.

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