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Postdoctoral Research Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Research information

See Arizona salary details

$39.6K

$80.1K

$108.6K

How much do postdoctoral research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research in Arizona is $80,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral research position?

Postdoctoral research positions, often called 'postdocs,' are temporary roles for individuals who have recently completed a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent). Postdocs work under the supervision of experienced researchers and focus on deepening their expertise, conducting advanced research, and publishing scholarly work. These positions are commonly found at universities, research institutes, and sometimes in industry, and are considered a stepping stone toward faculty or permanent research roles. Duties can include designing experiments, mentoring students, writing grant proposals, and presenting findings at conferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral researcher?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher, you need advanced expertise in your field, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a strong record of research and publication. Proficiency with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R, Python, or MATLAB), and familiarity with grant writing and academic publishing platforms is essential. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective collaboration and communication skills help you excel in complex, multidisciplinary research environments. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality research, securing funding, and contributing meaningfully to scientific advancements.

What are some common challenges postdoctoral researchers face when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as securing funding, developing independent research ideas, and balancing research with publishing and networking responsibilities. The transition to independence also requires building a professional reputation and expanding one's network for future collaborations and job opportunities. Many postdocs find mentorship, time management, and learning grant-writing skills essential during this phase to successfully move toward faculty or industry positions.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral ResearchResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.)Master's or Ph.D., often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsCorporate R&D labs, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsIndustry, technology, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesIndustry research roles and career progression

Postdoctoral Research positions are typically academic roles focused on specialized research after earning a Ph.D., often preparing for a faculty or academic career. Research Scientists usually work in industry settings, applying research skills to develop products or solutions. While both roles require advanced degrees, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Is it difficult to get a postdoctoral research position?

Securing a postdoctoral research position can be competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, relevant research experience, and publication history. Candidates typically need to demonstrate specialized skills, such as proficiency with research tools and methodologies, and may face limited openings depending on the field and funding availability.

What does a postdoctoral researcher do?

A postdoctoral researcher conducts advanced scientific or academic research in a specific field, often working under the supervision of a principal investigator. They analyze data, publish findings, and develop expertise to prepare for independent research or academic positions, typically using specialized tools and methodologies. This role often requires a doctoral degree and strong analytical skills.

What is a typical postdoctoral research salary?

A postdoctoral research position typically offers a salary ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on the field, location, and funding source. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and research stipends, with some institutions providing additional support for conference travel and professional development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research jobs in Arizona?

For Postdoctoral Research jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Postdoctoral Research jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Postdoctoral Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,105 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate I

Tucson, AZ • On-site

University of Arizona
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


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7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

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Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate I
Posting Number
req26782
Department
Pharmacology and Toxicology
Department Website Link
https://www.pharmacy.arizona.edu/departments-directory/pharmacology-toxicology-department
Location
Tucson Campus
Address
Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
The R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate I for Dr. Xinglong Wang's laboratory. The successful candidate will conduct research focused on the discovery and development of novel small-molecule therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. The position will involve medicinal chemistry, compound design and synthesis, structure-activity relationship studies, and optimization of lead compounds for biological activity and drug-like properties.
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize novel small molecules and analogs for drug discovery and lead optimization.
  • Conduct structure-activity relationship studies and optimize compounds for potency, selectivity, physicochemical properties, and drug-like characteristics.
  • Collaborate with laboratory members to evaluate compounds using biochemical, cellular, and other pharmacological assays and use the results to guide compound optimization.
  • Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare manuscripts, research reports, presentations, and materials supporting grant applications.
  • Maintain accurate research records, contribute to laboratory operations, and assist with management of chemical reagents, instrumentation, and research resources.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong knowledge of medicinal chemistry and/or synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Knowledge in the design and synthesis of small molecules and structure-activity relationship studies.
  • Ability to independently design experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot synthetic approaches, and communicate research findings.
  • Strong scientific writing, communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.

Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD in medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, organic chemistry, chemical biology, or a closely related field upon hire.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in medicinal chemistry and lead optimization; structure-based or computational drug design; ADME/PK or drug metabolism studies; biochemical or cell-based compound screening; and/or drug discovery for neurological or neurodegenerative diseases.
  • A strong peer-reviewed publication record is preferred.
  • Proficiency in compound purification and characterization using techniques such as chromatography, HPLC, LC-MS, and NMR.

FLSA
Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
40
Job FTE
1.0
Work Calendar
Fiscal
Job Category
Research
Benefits Eligible
Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay
NIH Salary Guidelines, Depends on Experience
Compensation Type
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
1
Target Hire Date
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates
Xinglong Wang I xlwang@arizona.edu
Open Date
8/13/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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