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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$42.2K

$85.3K

$115.7K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Phoenix, AZ is $85,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,600.00 and $115,200.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Phoenix, AZ 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 $85,350 per year, or $41 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate I, Department of Internal Medicine (Phoenix)

University of Arizona

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

  • Plan, design and conduct advanced, multi-disciplinary research involving the use of mouse models, human tissue and blood samples.
  • Use biochemical, cellular, molecular, and pharmacological approaches to for mechanistic studies.
  • Use cutting-edge technologies for transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic studies. 
  • Complete the assigned work in time. 
  • Complete complex research projects at different stages (advanced through nearly completed).
  • Formulate, troubleshoot and optimize research methods and techniques as needed.
  • Independently reproduce, evaluate, research, and improve techniques currently used.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all laboratory work and experiments.
  • Analyze data and present results in the weekly laboratory meetings. 
  • Attend seminars and scientific conferences when available. 
  • Prepare and revise manuscripts for publication. 
  • Participate in grant writing, including generating preliminary data, submitting grant applications, and preparing progress reports.
  • Perform literature regularly and bring new ideas to the projects.
  • Work collaboratively with team members in the lab, and with scientific investigators within and outside of the University of Arizona.
  • Be willing to help each other.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance of research activities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of scRNA-sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics, confocal microscopy.
  • In vivo animal studies will be preferred but not essential.
  • Skills in molecular and cellular biology, immunology, and animal studies are required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.

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