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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 Sep 1, 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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

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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 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,741 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Full-time Research Associate, Department of Oral Medicine

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Oral Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine invites applications for a Research Associate position within the Academic Support Staff. The Research Associate will report to Dr. Cagla Akay-Espinoza.
The successful candidate will participate in a research program that uses state-of-the-art technologies and experimental models to identify and characterize discrete cell subtypes within complex multicellular environments. The Research Associate will conduct laboratory studies involving molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, mammalian cell culture, and mouse models. Responsibilities may also include experimental design, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and contributions to grant applications.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project that is scientifically aligned with the laboratory's research program and to pursue external research funding.
Qualifications
Applicants must have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent doctoral degree and approximately five years of relevant postdoctoral research experience.
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
  • Extensive expertise in molecular and cellular biology
  • Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies
  • Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and mouse models
  • A strong publication record
  • Strong scientific writing and communication skills
  • Ability to contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment

Experience with electrophysiological recording, multielectrode array recording, computational analysis, or next-generation sequencing data analysis is desirable but not required.
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply via the posting in Interfolio, but may reach out to Dr. Cagla Akay-Espinoza (akayc@upenn.edu) with additional questions.

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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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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740

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