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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work on projects that informs the design and evaluation of culturally responsive communication interventions to advance the health and well-being of health ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$42.5K

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$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in the United States is $85,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $116,000.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, and why are they important?

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 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.

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 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 cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs? The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs are:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


University Of Nebraska Medical Center rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 993 rated hospitals


Job description

GENERAL REQUISITION INFORMATION
EEO Statement:
UNMC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Location Omaha, NE Requisition Number: 2026 - 175 Department Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology 50000521 Business Unit(College/Institute) College of Medicine FTE:
100
Reg-Temp Full-Time Regular Work Schedule Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Requisition Category Research - Academic Requisition Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Job Title/Academic Rank Postdoctoral Research Associate Additional Requisition Title Appointment Type A1 - REG OTHER ACAD SAL Salary Range Salary Commensurate with Experience Job/EEO Category Professional Non-Faculty (Includes Other Academic) Job Requisition Begin Date 04/27/2026
Position Qualification
Position Summary
The laboratory of Dr. Jana Broadhurst in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on the characterization of population immunity to emerging respiratory viruses. This project aims to describe antibody profiles in high-risk populations against emerging and re-emerging respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and measles viruses, and to contextualize these profiles according to epidemiologic risk factors, predictors of clinical outcomes, and public health interventions.
Key responsibilities:
  • Lead experiments and data analysis investigating antibody profiles in blood and mucosal specimens of participants enrolled in the Clinical Characterization Protocol for Severe Emerging Infections and Community Threat Assessment studies
  • Participate in the enrollment, collection, and banking of specimens from study participants
  • Maintain current certifications in biosafety and human subjects research necessary for the project
  • Lead manuscript preparation and participate in the preparation of grant submissions
  • Engage in the training and mentorship of students working in the laboratory
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in an appropriate scientific field (e.g. Biomedical sciences, Immunology)
Supplemental Qualifications
  • Knowledgeable in human immunology
  • Experienced in human subjects research and biobanking of clinical research specimens
  • Proficient in hypothesis-driven experimental design with clinical research specimens
  • Competent in high-throughput immunoassays, molecular techniques, and biostatistics
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Collaborative team member

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