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Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Researcher Department: CC00496 VIMS1 | RADV | CCRM Job Family: Faculty - Postdoctoral Research Associate (12 months) Worker Sub-Type: Fixed Term (requires end date - benefited) (Fixed ...

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct cutting-edge research in areas such as cyber-physical systems security, protection of critical infrastructure, and adversarial machine learning. The position ...

Job Summary Postdoctoral Researcher in Noble Gas Tracers and Ocean Circulation We seek a postdoctoral researcher to work on a project focused on quantifying global ocean heat content and ocean ...

Postdoctoral Researcher Job no: 506935 Work type: Full-Time Location: Queen Lane Campus - Philadelphia, PA Categories: College of Medicine Job Summary The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is ...

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Postdoctoral Researcher information

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$42.5K

$86K

$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral researcher 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.

Is postdoc harder than PhD?

A postdoctoral researcher role typically involves more independent research, higher expectations for productivity, and longer hours compared to a PhD program. While a PhD focuses on completing coursework and a dissertation, a postdoc emphasizes publishing, grant writing, and establishing an independent research profile, which can be more demanding in terms of responsibility and workload.

What are Postdoctoral Researchers?

Postdoctoral Researchers, often called 'postdocs,' are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (typically a PhD) and are engaged in further academic or scholarly research, usually under the supervision of senior faculty members. Their role is to deepen their expertise in a specific field, contribute to ongoing research projects, and publish scholarly articles. Postdocs may also gain teaching experience, mentor students, and develop skills needed for independent research careers. These positions are typically temporary and serve as a bridge between doctoral studies and permanent academic or research roles.

Is a PhD required for a postdoc?

Yes, a PhD is typically required for a postdoctoral researcher position, as it demonstrates the advanced research skills and expertise needed for independent research. Some fields may accept candidates with a master's degree combined with significant research experience, but a PhD is generally standard.

How much do post doc researchers make?

Postdoctoral researchers typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on the field, experience, and location. Salaries can vary based on funding sources, institution policies, and whether the position is in academia or industry, with some positions offering additional benefits such as health insurance and research stipends.

What does a post-doctoral researcher do?

A postdoctoral researcher conducts advanced scientific or academic research after earning a doctoral degree. They typically work on specific projects, analyze data, publish findings, and may collaborate with other researchers or mentors to develop expertise in their field. This role often involves using specialized tools and techniques relevant to their discipline and preparing for future academic or industry positions.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Researcher vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral ResearcherResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPh.D. in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsIndustry labs, corporate R&D, private companies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesExploring industry research careers

The main difference between a Postdoctoral Researcher and a Research Scientist lies in their work environment and career stage. Postdoctoral Researchers typically work in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research after earning their Ph.D., often aiming for academic careers. Research Scientists are usually employed in industry settings, applying research to product development or innovation, often with more industry experience. Both roles require advanced degrees, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

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 an advanced degree (usually a Ph.D.) in a relevant field, strong analytical abilities, and a proven track record of conducting independent research. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and relevant research methodologies is often required. Strong written and verbal communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for driving innovative research, publishing results, and contributing effectively to scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers in managing work-life balance?

Postdoctoral researchers often face the challenge of balancing demanding research schedules with personal commitments, as the role may involve long hours in the lab, tight deadlines for publications, and grant applications. The academic environment can sometimes create pressure to produce results quickly, making it important to set boundaries and communicate effectively with supervisors. Many institutions now offer resources such as time management workshops and mental health support to help postdocs maintain a healthy work-life balance. Proactively seeking support and prioritizing tasks can make a significant difference in managing these challenges.
More about Postdoctoral Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Postdoctoral Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Postdoctoral Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Researcher jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Researcher jobs? For Postdoctoral Researcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. 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 Researcher

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Appalachian State University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

494th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Request to Recruit
Position Title
Postdoctoral Researcher
Location
Boone, NC
Faculty Rank
No
Provide Rank
N/A
Position Number
089591
Department
Computer Science - 250600
Position Summary Information
Primary Purpose
Postdoctoral researcher working on NSF grant on deep induction rules for advanced data types grant. Reports to Paticia Johann, Computer Science Department.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Experience in logical relations, functional programming, type theory, and category theory, specifically categorical semantics of advanced data types
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science
  • Research experience required

License/Certification Required
N/A
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent research experience.
  • Strong background in functional programming, type theory, and category theory.
  • Interest in working on fundamental research questions on the themes of type-indexed programming, term-indexed programming, and indexed programming in general.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The primary purpose of the Postdoctoral Researcher is to research on deep induction for advanced data types according to the NSF grant.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Background reading
  • Problem solving
  • Proving theories
  • Meeting with PI

Type of Position
Full Time Position
Staff/Non-Faculty
Staff/Non-Faculty
VISA Sponsorship?
Appointment Type
1.0
Work Schedule/Hours
Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Number of Hours Per Week
40
Number of Months Per Year
12
Mandatory Staff
No
Suggested Salary Range
Commensurate with experience
Physical Demands of Position
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Posting Details Information
Posting Date
03/27/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Evaluation of Applications Begins
04/11/2025
Proposed Date of Hire
Special Instructions to Applicants
For a complete application, please apply and submit all below-required documents electronically through Appalachian State University's Job Board:
  • Cover Letter
  • CV
  • List of three professional references with contact information

Search Chair Name
Patricia Johann
Search Chair Email
johannp@appstate.edu
Quick Link
https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/50240
Posting Number
201501613P

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