ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Postdoctoral Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA

$59K - $83K/yr

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 ...

Washington University of St. Louis

The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with Dr. Thomas Odeny and multidisciplinary collaborators on projects focused on cancer care delivery, implementation science, and HIV-associated ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPostdoctoral Research Jobs

Postdoctoral Research information

See salary details

$42.5K

$86K

$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher, and why are they important?

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.

How much do post doc researchers make?

Postdoctoral researchers typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on the field, location, and funding source. Salaries can vary based on experience, institution, and whether the position is funded through grants or fellowships.

What are postdoctoral research positions?

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.

How to become a postdoctoral researcher?

To become a postdoctoral researcher, individuals typically need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as a Ph.D., along with research experience and a strong publication record. Applicants often apply for positions through academic institutions or research organizations, demonstrating expertise in their area and sometimes securing funding or fellowships. Developing specialized skills, such as laboratory techniques or data analysis, can enhance candidacy.

What does a postdoc researcher do?

A postdoctoral researcher conducts advanced scientific or academic research in a specific field, often under the supervision of a principal investigator. They analyze data, publish findings, and develop expertise to prepare for independent research or academic positions, typically working in laboratories or research institutions. Strong analytical skills and familiarity with research tools and methodologies are essential for this role.

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.

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.

Is postdoc harder than PhD?

A postdoctoral research position is generally more demanding than a PhD, as it involves independent research, publishing, and often managing projects or teams. While a PhD focuses on developing expertise and completing a dissertation, a postdoc emphasizes advancing research skills, securing funding, and establishing an academic or industry reputation. The difficulty depends on individual skills, research environment, and career goals.
More about Postdoctoral Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Research jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Research 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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research jobs are:
Postdoctoral Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 12% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

Postdoctoral Research Associate

NorthEastern

Boston, MA

$59K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity

The Communication for Health Equity Lab led by Professor Diane Francis is looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to help support the transdisciplinary research activities of this lab. Our research focuses on understanding effective communication practices for health behavior change and health equity. 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 disparity populations. The position is for 2 years.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

  • The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work on projects related to the development and evaluation of health communication strategiesto address health disparities across underserved populations.
  • Research skills and experiences will include utilizing mixed methods research, community engagement, qualitative, quantitative, and big data collection and analysis.
  • This position involves developing research projects, grant writing, manuscript preparation, lab management, and supervision of graduate and undergraduate students.

Minimum Qualifications

  • PhD (or earning the degree by the start date) in communication, public health, health promotion, or related social and behavioral sciences field.
  • Candidates with interest in computational health communication, AI and health messaging, social/digital media and health outcomes are a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Candidates with a track record in conducting mixed methods research, including population-based surveys, qualitative methods, big data analytics, and health campaign formative and evaluation research are preferred.
  • Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those from groups that are underrepresented in health-related research, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

108S

Expected Hiring Range:

$59,423.00 - $83,934.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.

Apply