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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$46.5K

$94K

$127.4K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Santa Rosa, CA is $93,982.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $126,800.00 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.

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The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,982 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researchers - Zhou Lab

Novato, CA • On-site

Buck Institute for Research on Aging
See more jobs at Buck Institute for Research on Agingexternal

$73K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Protein Biochemistry and IDR Structural Biology
POSITION SUMMARY
The Zhou Lab at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging is seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Researchers to join a multidisciplinary research program focused on the structural and functional biology of intrinsically disordered proteins and regions (IDPs/IDRs).
Successful candidates will contribute to a collaborative research program aimed at understanding how sequence, mutation, post-translational modification, binding partners, and environmental conditions reshape IDR conformational ensembles. The project integrates protein biochemistry with emerging structural and biophysical technologies, computational modeling, and large-scale interactome measurements.
Postdoctoral Researchers will work closely with Research Associates, computational scientists, and external collaborators to generate and characterize IDR proteins for structural and interaction measurements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and optimize purification and sample-preparation workflows suitable for IDR-containing proteins for measurements including single-molecule profiling, HDX-MS, mass spectrometry, and other structural/biophysical assays.
  • Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of purified proteins and assess sample quality, stability, oligomeric state, and conformational behavior.
  • Develop and perform in vitro assays examining IDR interactions, condensation, aggregation, and responses to candidate binders or small molecules.
  • Work with computational team members to interpret experimental results in the context of predicted conformational ensembles.
  • Maintain rigorous experimental records and contribute to milestone reports, manuscripts, presentations, and publications.
  • Help mentor research associates and junior laboratory members involved in the project.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, chemical biology, biophysics, protein science, or a related discipline.
  • Strong hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression, purification, and biochemical characterization.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot experimental workflows.
  • Strong quantitative and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Prior experience purifying and handling intrinsically disordered proteins or IDR-containing proteins is strongly preferred.
  • Experience working with aggregation-prone, phase-separating, or structurally heterogeneous proteins.
  • Experience with protein interaction assays, protein aggregation/condensation assays, SEC, chromatography, native PAGE, DLS, mass spectrometry sample preparation, or related biophysical approaches.
  • Familiarity with some of the structural methods such as mass spectrometry, metabolomics, HDX-MS, cryo-EM, NMR, single-molecule measurements, or molecular-dynamics-informed experimental design.
This position is particularly well suited for a scientist interested in working at the interface of protein biochemistry, structural biology, proteomics/metabolomics, and computational modeling.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • $73,760 - $81,440 annual salary depending on skills and experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401(k) employer contribution, and a student debt repayment option.
ABOUT THE BUCK
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is the first independent biomedical research institute in the United States devoted solely to research on aging. Located in Novato, California, the Buck brings together scientists across multiple disciplines to study the mechanisms of aging and age-related disease to help people live better, longer.
The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the diversity and excellence of our community.
TO APPLY
Please submit online:
  • A curriculum vitae or resume
  • A cover letter addressing your past research experience, plans, and expectations for working in the lab
  • Any relevant publications, projects, or code.

Apply