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Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral Researcher information

See Colorado salary details

$44.7K

$90.4K

$122.5K

How much do postdoctoral researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral researcher in Colorado is $90,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $122,000.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Researcher jobs in Colorado? For Postdoctoral Researcher jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Researcher jobs in CO? For Postdoctoral Researcher jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Researcher job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,388 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Biochemist/Biophysicist

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

Golden, CO • On-site

$76K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Posting Title
Postdoctoral Researcher - Biochemist/Biophysicist
Location
CO - Golden
Position Type
Postdoc (Fixed Term)
Hours Per Week
40
Working at NLR
NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development.
Join the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), where world-class scientists, engineers, and experts are accelerating energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. From our mission to our collaborative culture, NLR stands out in the research community for its commitment to an affordable and secure energy future. Spanning foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, we focus on solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost-effective energy solutions. Our work helps strengthen U.S. industries, support job creation, and promote national economic growth.
At NLR, you'll find a mission-driven environment supported by state-of-the-art facilities, multidisciplinary research teams, and strong collaborations with industry, academia, and other national laboratories. We offer robust professional development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package designed to support your career and well-being.
Job Description
The National Laboratory of the Rockies Biosciences Center has an immediate opening for a full-time Postdoctoral Researcher position in the Physical Biochemistry and Photosynthesis Group to conduct basic research on the electron transfer and biophysical mechanisms of flavin-based electron bifurcating enzymes. The candidate's research responsibilities will include the application of spectroscopic (UV/Vis steady state and transient absorption, electron paramagnetic resonance, fluorescence), electrochemical (protein film voltammetry, spectroelectrochemistry), and biochemical methods towards the broader goal of understanding how the protein environment tunes redox cofactors for efficient and challenging electron transfer reactions.
The research project will involve collaborations with internal and external groups. The candidate will be required on a regular basis to prepare manuscripts and reports on research progress, present results at national meetings, mentor junior researchers, participate in professional development opportunities, and assist the project PI with the planning of project directions. To meet these requirements the candidate must possess strong organizational skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, and keen attention to detail.
Please include with your application materials a cover letter describing how your background and experience is relevant to this position.
Basic Qualifications
Must be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years.
* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
Additional Required Qualifications
  • A Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry or related discipline within the last 3 years.
  • Previous working knowledge and hands-on experience in techniques for expression and purification of recombinant proteins; and experience with the biochemical/biophysical investigation of redox active enzymes.
  • Must have strong oral and written communication skills, and a strong history of prior publication on relevant research.
  • The ability to work safely and independently in a laboratory setting is required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Graduate research experience in any of the following areas: flavoenzymes, metalloenzymes, enzyme kinetics, protein-protein or protein-substrate interactions, transient absorption spectroscopy, EPR, and/or protein electrochemistry.
  • Experience working with oxygen-sensitive redox active biocatalysts and/or working as part of an interdisciplinary research team are a plus.

Job Application Submission Window
The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.
Annual Salary Range (based on full-time 40 hours per week)
Job Profile: Postdoctoral Researcher / Annual Salary Range: $76,600 - $126,400
NLR takes into consideration a candidate's education, training, and experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value, including seniority and merit systems, and internal pay alignment when determining the salary level for potential new employees. In compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, a potential new employee's salary history will not be used in compensation decisions.
Benefits Summary
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; short-term disability insurance*; pension benefits*; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match*; life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance; personal time off (PTO) and sick leave; and paid holidays. NLR employees may be eligible for, but are not guaranteed, performance-, merit-, and achievement- based awards that include a monetary component. Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.
* Based on eligibility rules
Badging Requirement
NLR is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as required by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12), which includes a favorable background investigation.
Drug Free Workplace
NLR is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace in accordance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug.
If you are offered employment at NLR, you must pass a pre-employment drug test prior to commencing employment. Unless prohibited by state or local law, the pre-employment drug test will include marijuana. If you test positive on the pre-employment drug test, your offer of employment may be withdrawn.
Submission Guidelines
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at NLR you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard basis of age (40 and over), color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, and any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Reasonable Accommodations
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