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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Swarthmore College

Postdoctoral Researcher

Swarthmore, PA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

We invite applications for an experimental research postdoctoral position in the Smith Materials Lab led by Associate Prof. Hillary Smith in the Physics Department at Swarthmore College. The Smith ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$42.9K

$86.7K

$117.6K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Philadelphia, PA is $86,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $117,100.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,741 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Research Associate Position - Lazar laboratory

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

University of Pennsylvania
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

167th of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Pennsylvaniaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description
The Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism in the Department of Medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania seeks candidates for a Research Associate position in the Academic Support Staff. This appointment will be initially for one (1) year and continuation during that time period and renewal are based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding (limited to three (3) years). Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree. Position requires a minimum of three years of postdoctoral research experience.
Responsibilities may include experiments related to determining mechanisms underlying the functions of thyroid hormone receptors in cells and in vivo by developing novel methods of gene transcription and analysis in liver and other tissues. Applicant must have experience working with animal models of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and expertise in molecular biology techniques including ChIP-seq, single cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, and generation of mutant mice models. The longer-term goal is understanding mechanisms relating to diabetes, obesity, and their comorbidities including metabolic liver disease.
The successful applicant will have an opportunity to develop a customized training experience in research that allows the individual to attain personal career objectives while developing a career in an academic setting.
The Research Associate will be expected to collaborate with other members of the lab in their research areas and give their contributions.
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About University of Pennsylvania

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The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

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