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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Rochester, MI

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$39.1K

$79.1K

$107.2K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Rochester, MI is $79,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $106,800.00 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 Rochester, MI are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

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

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,122 per year, or $38 per hour.

Post-Doctoral Fellow/Research Associate - Department of Oncology

Detroit, MI • On-site

Wayne State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

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289th of 622 rated colleges and universities

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Learn more about Wayne State Universityexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Perform laboratory based scientific techniques or clinical/population science (human subjects) research.  Design and perform experiments, recruit participants for studies by developing surveys and interviewing candidates.  Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines.  Assist staff with experiments /research protocols as required.  Communicate with principal investigator and Postdoctoral scholars/fellows on the status of research.

Assist the Principal Investigator in designing and performing protocols. Design and perform experiments. Collect and log research data.  Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines.  Assist other lab members with experiments as required.  May mentor research assistants and students.

Evaluate and perform preliminary analysis of the data using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated.

Collect and log laboratory results, clinical outcomes and/or survey data.  Evaluate and perform data analysis using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated. Proofread and edit research data and documents to ensure accuracy.


Prepare and present presentations regarding research results for professional, scientific and academic conferences.  Summarize and organize data results for submittal to academic and scholarly, peer-reviewed journals.  Write scientific manuscripts and other documents for publication. Fact-check, proofread, and edit research documents to ensure accuracy.

Maintain the laboratory work areas including routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required.  Order and organize required research supplies and records.  Maintain cleanliness and organization of work station.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

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