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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$42.5K

$86K

$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 29 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 - 111 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 03/16/2026
Position Qualification
Position Summary
An NIH-funded postdoctoral position in parasitology is available immediately to study Plasmodium falciparum antimalarial drug resistance mechanisms in the highly dynamic research group of Dr. Caroline Ng in the Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine. The research focuses on the malaria parasite proteasome, ubiquitination, and stress responses in the context of drug resistance. Our laboratory employs cellular and molecular biology techniques, proteomics, and bioinformatics techniques. Our laboratory has state-of-the-art BSL-2 facilities, which are fully equipped to carry out studies on Plasmodium falciparum. In addition, we have access to a wide variety of research core facilities. Lab website: https://www.unmc.edu/pathology/faculty/bios/ng.html

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cellular and molecular biology, malaria parasitology, demonstrated success as a recent PhD graduate, creative out-of-the box thinking, and willingness to join and work with a new and growing research team. The selected postdoctoral researcher will have extensive and complementary interactions within the highly collaborative environment of the Department, which will allow a new postdoctoral fellow to integrate in a wider community of microbiologists and clinicians. The successful candidate will assist with project planning, data management, workflow design, graduate and undergraduate student training, and other tasks as needed, including data analysis and generation of status reports. Good communication skills are a must, with demonstrated independent-thinking and problem-solving ability. Experience using databases is recommended. Bioinformatics skills are viewed favorably. The research projects are expected to generate high impact publications and provide a postdoctoral fellow with an excellent opportunity for further career development in academia as an independent principal investigator or pharmaceutical companies.

Candidates should submit their application to Dr. Ng through this posting https://unmc.peopleadmin.com/postings/96705. Applications should include a cover letter describing research experience and interests (max. 2 pages), curriculum vitae with complete list of publications, and names and contact information for three references. Dr. Ng is committed to creating a laboratory environment that is non- discriminatory and she is active in creating and supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Required Qualifications
PhD degree in microbiology, parasitology, cellular/molecular biology, genetics, or related scientific field of study.
Supplemental Qualifications
Research experience and techniques in parasite culture, parasite growth assays, genetic manipulation of malaria parasites and bacterial cloning, molecular/cellular biology, microscopy, proteomics, and skills in database mining and management.

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