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Postdoctoral Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$60 - $80/hr

Postdoctoral Scientist - UCSF (Bhattacharya Lab) The Bhattacharya Lab at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to study the mechanisms of pulmonary ...

$70K - $91K/yr

The Postdoctoral Scientist performs a variety of research and/or laboratory tasks and experiments under general supervision. Analyzes data and records the results and conclusions of laboratory ...

$70K - $91K/yr

The Postdoctoral Scientist performs a variety of research and/or laboratory tasks and experiments under general supervision. Analyzes data and records the results and conclusions of laboratory ...

$70K - $91K/yr

The Postdoctoral Scientist performs a variety of research and/or laboratory tasks and experiments under general supervision. Analyzes data and records the results and conclusions of laboratory ...

$70K - $91K/yr

The Postdoctoral Scientist performs a variety of research and/or laboratory tasks and experiments under general supervision. Analyzes data and records the results and conclusions of laboratory ...

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$86K

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How much do postdoctoral scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral scientist 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 is a postdoctoral scientist?

A Postdoctoral Scientist, often referred to as a postdoc, is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD) and is engaged in further academic or scientific research. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator, contributing to ongoing research projects and developing their own expertise in a specialized field. The role is typically temporary and serves as a bridge between completing a PhD and obtaining a permanent academic or research position. Postdoctoral Scientists are critical in advancing scientific knowledge and often publish their research in peer-reviewed journals.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Scientist, you need a doctorate in a relevant field, advanced research expertise, and a track record of scholarly publications. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and grant-writing processes is typically required. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are essential for collaboration and disseminating research findings. These skills ensure successful project execution, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the scientific community.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral scientists when transitioning from graduate studies to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral Scientists often encounter the challenge of balancing increased independence with the expectations of their supervisors and research groups. While they gain more autonomy in designing experiments and managing projects, they must also quickly adapt to new lab environments, technologies, and sometimes interdisciplinary collaborations. Additionally, postdocs frequently face the pressure of publishing results and securing funding, which can be demanding alongside mentoring junior researchers or teaching responsibilities. Building a professional network and developing grant-writing skills are also critical for career advancement beyond the postdoctoral stage.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Scientist vs Research Associate?

AspectPostdoctoral ScientistResearch Associate
Required CredentialsPhD in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's, sometimes PhD
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research institutionsUniversities, industry R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutesUniversities, biotech, pharma companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral Scientists typically hold a PhD and focus on conducting advanced research in academic or research settings. Research Associates may have a Bachelor's or Master's degree and often work in similar environments but with different levels of responsibility. The main difference lies in the level of education and experience, with Postdoctoral Scientists being more research-focused and often preparing for academic careers.

What does a postdoctoral scientist do?

A postdoctoral scientist conducts advanced research in a specific field, often after completing a doctoral degree. They design experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and may supervise students or collaborate with other researchers in academic or industry settings.

What is a typical postdoctoral scientist salary?

A postdoctoral scientist salary typically ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on the field, location, and funding source. Salaries may increase with experience, additional skills, and the complexity of research projects, and often include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
More about Postdoctoral Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Postdoctoral Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Postdoctoral Scientist job openings:

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What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Scientist jobs?

For Postdoctoral Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scientist - UCSF (Bhattacharya Lab)

On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Postdoctoral Scientist – UCSF (Bhattacharya Lab)

The Bhattacharya Lab at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to study the mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis, with a focus on immune–mesenchymal interactions and extracellular nucleotide signaling.

The lab utilizes state-of-the-art approaches, including in vivo mouse models, ex vivo precision-cut lung slices, and single-cell genomics, supported by UCSF’s advanced molecular, imaging, and computational facilities.

Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experiments using lung fibrosis models (in vivo and ex vivo).
  • Apply molecular and cellular techniques such as single-cell RNA-seq, flow cytometry, and imaging.
  • Analyze data, prepare manuscripts, and present findings.
  • Collaborate with lab members, academic groups, and industry partners.
  • Mentor graduate students and research staff.
Qualifications
  • PhD or MD/PhD in immunology, molecular biology, pulmonary biology, bioengineering, or a related field.
  • Strong background in cell and molecular biology.
  • Experience with mouse models preferred.
  • Demonstrated research productivity (publications, presentations).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with fibrosis models or lung biology.
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following:
    • Flow cytometry
    • Microscopy
    • Single-cell genomics
    • Bioinformatics
    • Pharmacology
  • Interest in translational research and therapeutic discovery.
Compensation
  • Salary and benefits follow UCSF postdoctoral scholar guidelines.
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