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Postdoctoral Research Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate - Overview The Postdoctoral Associate performs scientific research under the ... Prepares research reports and technical papers for publishing. * Investigates the feasibility of ...

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Postdoctoral Research information

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$31.8K

$64.2K

$87.1K

How much do postdoctoral research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research in Florida is $64,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,800.00 and $86,700.00 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 Florida?

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

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,237 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


University Of South Florida rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

The Morsani College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease & International Medicine, invites applications for Postdoctoral Scholar for Research Positions to join Cui Lab and the robust Malaria Research Program at the University of South Florida. Dr. Cui's laboratory is recruiting a Postdoctoral fellow to study population genomics. Applicants interested in this work should have a recent Ph.D. in biological disciplines or other related fields. The Lab is located at the USF Research Park on the main campus in Tampa. There are opportunities for collaboration within the Department of internal medicine, Global Health, and throughout the University of South Florida, including the Moffitt cancer institute. A strong emphasis is placed on career development, participation in national meetings, communication skills, grant and manuscript writing, interdisciplinary research, and population genomics studies. Postdoctoral Fellows of outstanding caliber, who are self-motivated and independently driven, would be joining a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary training environment. 

Salary will be at or above published guidelines of the NIH, with travel funds available to attend national and international meetings. A multi-year commitment to the training is expected.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. 

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF's rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida's best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state's 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF's Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.  This job description does not constitute an employment contract.  

Minimum Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. terminal degree from an accredited institution in biological disciplines such as Molecular and Cellular Biology, Microbiology, Statistics, Epidemiology, Public Health or related subjects. Outstanding communication skills to ensure good interactions across multiple research teams. 

Preferred Qualifications: Evidence of publication record in infectious diseases, and experience performing population genetics, epidemiology and genomics studies are preferred.

Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Postdoctoral Fellow.

Conduct population genomics studies of malaria parasites;

Collaborate with any other lab members in bioinformatics;

Write manuscripts for peer review journals.


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About University of South Florida

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The University of South Florida (USF), located in Tampa, FL, US, is a highly respected, long-standing institution specializing in teaching, research, and public service. It operates within the higher education industry and offers over 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degree programs, across disciplines ranging from arts and sciences to business, engineering, and healthcare. Founded in the year 1956, USF has relentlessly strived to develop an environment conducive to learning and research, which over the years, has earned it a preeminent status among public universities across the globe. USF's mission is to foster a vibrant, student-centric learning environment that instills an expansive intellectual foundation to drive success. USF is known for its considerable impact on regional and state economies, contributing $5 billion annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1956

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