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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Worcester, MA

Worcester Polytech

Post Doctoral Fellow

Worcester, MA · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

... postdoctoral research associate to begin immediately. The research associate is expected to work under Prof. Rong R. Wang's supervision and will focus on developing novel methods and materials for ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$42.3K

$85.7K

$116.1K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Worcester, MA is $85,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $115,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Worcester, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Worcester, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,650 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Staff Associate, Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Worcester, MA • On-site

$59 - $72/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About Worcester State University:

WORCESTER STATE UNIVERSITY is a liberal arts and sciencesuniversity with a long tradition of academic excellence dating backto 1874, as well as an Affinity Action/Equal OpportunityEmployer that seeks to reflect the diversity of its community. Ourworkforce is dedicated to academic quality, student-centeredprogramming, engaged citizenship, open exchanges of ideas,diversity and inclusiveness, and civility and integrity. We arelooking for job applicants who share these values and commitment toour students.

Worcester State is centrally located in Massachusetts, about anhour's drive from Boston, Springfield, and Providence, RhodeIsland. Our 58-acre campus is nestled in the residential northwestside of Worcester--the second largest city in New England and home to 37,000 college students at more than a dozen colleges anduniversities. Over 6,000 of those students attend WorcesterState--approximately 5,300 are undergraduates and 1,000 aregraduate students. Learn more about us at worcester.edu/about.

Job Description

OFFICIAL TITLE: Staff Associate, Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Assistant Professor (Ian Stephens)and/or Dean for the School of Science, Technology, and Health

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: N/A

General Statement of Duties: The Staff Associate,Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields willconduct research in collaboration with Dr. Ian Stephens atWorcester State University (WSU). The incumbent will work with datafrom the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA).Part of the funding is to build a single, unified dataset of allHAWC+ polarization data for star-forming regions. Other funds willbe used to analyze HAWC+ polarization data to understand themagnetic fields of specific regions in the Gould Belt. Funding isavailable for 2 years, with a third year possible if more fundingis secured. The WSU postdoc will also have an opportunity tocollaborate at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard &Smithsonian. The preferred start date is September, but other startdates are possible as well.

Responsibilities

(E) = Essential

  1. (E) Conducts research at Worcester State University.
  2. (E) Compares observations with models to interpret the role ofmagnetic fields in forming stars within a galaxy's magnetizedspiral potential.
  3. (E) Maintains regular communication with WSUsupervisor(s).
  4. (E) Performs other duties as assigned, consistent with the research project.
  5. (E) Demonstrates civility and professional, customer-serviceoriented behavior, worthy of emulation by other staff andstudents.
  6. (E) Responsible for contributing to the WSU Strategic Planthrough research activities.
  7. (E) Responsible for contributing to EqualOpportunity/Affirmative Action objectives through researchactivities.
Requirements Required Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, conferredby date of appointment
  • Ability to successfully conduct research and analyze data.
  • Ability to travel to each work site, as necessary.
  • Ability to successfully pass a thorough background check andCORI check.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position withor without reasonable accommodation.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Research experience in star formation.
  • Research experience in polarimetry.
Additional Information

This is a full-time, grant-funded, benefited, exempt, professionalNon-Unit position. The firm annual salary for this position is$65,000, commensurate with relevant professional experience andeducation. Funding for this position is available for 2 years, with a third year possible if more funding is secured.

Here at Worcester State University, it is strongly recommended thatall employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 before they beginemployment.

Worcester State University offers a competitive benefits packagethat includes:

  • a choice of 8 different pre-taxed, health insurance planoptions
  • a choice of pension or 401(a), and supplemental plan retirementoptions
  • life insurance up to 8x the annual salary
  • long-term disability coverage
  • dental insurance
  • 20 vacation days accrued per year
  • 15 sick days accrued per year
  • 5 personal days per year
  • paid holidays
  • tuition remission for self, spouse, and dependent children
  • and more...

We are an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. M/F/D/V.Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are stronglyencouraged to apply.

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