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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Lansing, MI

LSU AgCenter

Postdoctoral Researcher

East Lansing, MI · On-site

... associate in the Department of Entomology in coordination with the USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Research Laboratory (HBBGPRL). These duties will include conducting research ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Lansing, MI salary details

$43.1K

$87.2K

$118.2K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Lansing, MI is $87,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,800.00 and $117,700.00 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 Lansing, MI are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Lansing, MI with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Lansing, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,186 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher

Louisiana State University

East Lansing, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.Job Posting Title:Postdoctoral ResearcherPosition Type:Other AcademicDepartment:LSUAG PL1 - DPPCP - Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology (Jonathan Richards (00057607))Work Location:0302 Life Sciences BuildingPay Grade:Other AcademicJob Description:

This is a grant-funded, full-time (40 hrs/week) non-tenure track position through 08/31/2027. Funding is available for one year, but continuation past the first year is contingent on successful annual review and available funding.

Work Location: Department of Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Position Description: The postdoctoral research associate will be involved in several projects focusing on bioinformatics analyses of whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and metagenomic/metatranscriptomic datasets derived from fungi and plants. The postdoctoral research associate will be expected to lead all data analyses, contribute to the execution of greenhouse/growth chamber experiments, write manuscripts, present results at meetings and conferences, and mentor undergraduates. Prior experience with developing reproducible computational pipelines on a high-performance computing framework, conducting transcriptomic and comparative genomics analyses, and a background in plant and/or fungal evolutionary biology is preferred. Laboratory experience in DNA/RNA extractions and sequencing library preparation would also be beneficial.

Qualification Requirements: PhD degree in biology, biochemistry, mycology, botany, ecology, plant pathology or other related field. Demonstrated experience (publications) carrying out genomic, transcriptomic, or evolutionary biology studies, preferably in the context of plant or fungal biology, is required. Preference will be given to those with a background in the genomics of plants or fungi. Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and a willingness and ability to interact and collaborate with other scientists are essential to the success of the research. A valid Louisiana State driver's license and ability to drive is required at the time of appointment.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: August 1, 2026 or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching files containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and contact information for references. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted. Questions or requests for additional information regarding this position can be sent to:

Dr. Vinson P. Doyle

Chair and Professor of Mycology

Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

302 Life Science Building

Email: VDoyle@agcenter.lsu.edu

Website: www.lsuagcenter.com

Dr. Jonathan K. Richards

Associate Professor

Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

302 Life Science Building

Email: JRichards@agcenter.lsu.edu

Website: www.lsuagcenter.com

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

Additional Job Description:Competencies:NoneSpecial Instructions:

Skills Needed:

Preferred Skills:

Posting Date:July 15, 2026Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some childcare and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):
About the LSU Agricultural Center:

The LSU AgCenter, is one of eight campuses within the broader LSU enterprise (LSU System). The LSU AgCenter includes the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, which conducts agricultural-based research, and the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, which extends the knowledge derived from research to the people of the state. The AgCenter is headquartered in Baton Rouge and has 12 "on campus" academic departments and five regions which are made up of 15 branch research stations and an extension office in each parish. For more information, visit the AgCenter's website at www.lsuagcenter.com.

The LSU Agricultural Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.HCM Contact Information:

Questions or concerns can be directed to the LSU AgCenter Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-2258 or emailed HRMHelp@agcenter.lsu.edu.

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