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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Princeton, NJ

RFCSR

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Appointments will be made at the rank of Postdoctoral Research Associate for a one-year (12-month) duration, beginning September 1, 2027, with the possibility of renewal pending satisfactory ...

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Ecoeng

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$55 - $70/hr

Jun 30, 2027 (will be removed from ecoeng.org listings Dec 31, 2026) Description The High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI), ( invites applications for postdoctoral research associates focusing ...

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$44.9K

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How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Princeton, NJ is $90,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $122,700.00 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.

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What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Princeton, NJ?

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What cities near Princeton, NJ are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Princeton, NJ with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Princeton, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,898 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Psychology at Princeton University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate or more senior research position. Applicants should have a PhD degree (or expect to receive a PhD degree by June 15, 2025) in Psychology or allied fields (e.g., Sociology) with an interest in conducting research relevant to racial bias and inequality. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with Dr. Stacey Sinclair on an on-going research project examining how the framing of diversity efforts impacts support for and efficacy of such efforts. Responsibilities will include activities such as working with large public datasets, designing and implementing relevant experiments writing manuscripts, presenting research, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers in the group. The position is offered for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon funding and satisfactory performance. In addition to the aforementioned project, the appointee will have opportunities to develop additional projects with members of Dr. Sinclair's lab and/or maintain their on-going work. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. Applicants must apply online and submit a cover letter, C.V., 1-2 research papers, a research statement, and names of two referees who can provide letters upon request.
Expected Salary Range: PDRA - $65,000 - $75,000; ARS - $73,000-$85,000
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

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