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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Topeka, KS

University of Kansas

Postdoctoral Fellow

Lawrence, KS · Hybrid

$46K - $62K/yr

The Associate Researcher will contribute to and lead aspects of ongoing federally funded studies, including the Building Healthy Eating and Self-Esteem Together for University Students (BEST-U) trial ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Topeka, KS salary details

$40K

$81K

$109.8K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Topeka, KS is $80,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $109,300.00 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 Topeka, KS are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you

Plant Biodiversity Postdoctoral Researcher

Botanical Society of America

Lawrence, KS • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Plant Biodiversity Postdoctoral Researcher University of Kansas - Lawrence, Kansas, USA

Position Title: Plant Biodiversity Postdoctoral Researcher

Position Type: Post-Doctoral Position

Application Review Begins: Tuesday, September 01, 2026

Application Deadline: Monday, September 21, 2026

Institution: University of Kansas

Department/Division: Biodiversity Institute & Natural History Museum, Botany Division

Field (e.g., systematics): systematics

City: Lawrence, Kansas, USA

General Information: The University of Kansas (KU), Biodiversity Institute & Natural History Museum (BI/NHM) invites applications for a two-year, full-time, postdoctoral researcher position in plant biodiversity, situated in the Botany Division and R.L. McGregor Herbarium (https://biodiversity.ku.edu/botany). There is potential for renewal of the appointment based on funding developments. Applicants will be expected to conduct herbarium- and specimen-based, innovative research in plant biodiversity, including systematics, evolution, and genomics, and integrative AI applications. Potential complementary research foci include regional floristics, ecology, biodiversity data science, and conservation. The successful candidate will develop an active, collaborative research program as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, research proposals, herbarium collection advancement, and outreach activities through the herbarium and the BI/NHM.

Qualifications/Requirements
  1. Ph.D. in plant biodiversity, systematics, evolution, or a related field (applicants must hold their terminal degree by the position start date).
  2. Demonstrated proficiency in specimen-based research involving vascular plants as required by previous experience.
  3. Experience in herbarium-based research.
  4. Experience communicating science to the public and other relevant communities.

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title or equivalent title, it is necessary to have the Ph.D. in hand.

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations.

Preferred Qualifications
  1. Strong record of innovative biodiversity research incorporating herbarium specimens, field work, phylogenetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and emerging AI applications as evidenced by application materials.
  2. Experience in mobilizing digitized herbarium specimens, associated media, and specimen extensions.
  3. Previous experience that required collection curation and management skills.
  4. Experience in leading and contributing to collaborative research proposals and awards.
  5. Strong research focus, or stated interest to develop such focus, on plant taxa occurring in North America and especially the central North American grasslands as evidenced by application materials.
  6. Stated interest in developing fruitful collaborations with the joint KBS-CER Kansas Natural Heritage Inventory (KNHI) program focused on state-wide plant community monitoring and conservation assessments (https://biosurvey.ku.edu/kansas-natural-heritage-inventory) as evidenced by application materials.
Responsibilities: Job Description Research (50%)
  • Conduct innovative and collaborative research in plant biodiversity, systematics, evolution, genomics, and integrative and ethical AI applications.
  • Prepare and publish research in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
  • Present research at regional to international meetings.
  • Lead or contribute to collaborative research proposals to external agencies.
Professional Performance (35%)
  • Contribute to the management, use, and advancement of the herbarium collection.
  • Contribute, as appropriate, to supervision or mentorship of research personnel supported by grants and contracts.
  • Contribute, as appropriate, to mentoring graduate and undergraduate students engaged in research and curation activities in the herbarium and in other synergistic projects.
Service (15%)
  • Lead and contribute to plant biodiversity- and herbarium-promoting outreach that informs and promotes public understanding and appreciation of herbaria and plant biodiversity.
  • Contribute to the plant biodiversity field and community by reviewing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, reviewing research proposals, and providing other scholarly or academic society services.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Inquiries are encouraged: nico.franz@ku.edu

Nico Franz, Ph.D.

Director & Professor, BI/NHM

https://biodiversity.ku.edu/

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