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Postdoctoral Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Postdoctoral Scientist information

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$42.5K

$86K

$116.5K

How much do postdoctoral scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 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:

What states have the most Postdoctoral Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Postdoctoral Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,959 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

$70K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

We are always open to finding self-motivated and highly organized Postdoctoral Scientist candidates for potential opportunities within our labs in the greater Boston area.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. You will be contacted by a member of our Recruitment team if your skills and experience appear to be a match when a role opens.

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 experiments. Interprets analytical data and prepares research reports. May assist in the establishment of experimental protocols. Postdoc appointments are tied to a research program advised by the Investigator.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Performs research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects.

  • Makes detailed observations, analyzes data, and interprets results

  • Exercises technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies.

  • Prepares technical reports, summaries, protocols, and quantitative analyses.

  • Maintains familiarity with current scientific literature

  • Contributes to project process within their scientific field.

  • Investigates, builds, and develops new methods and technologies for project advancement.

  • Maintains high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature.

  • May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals.

  • Uses professional concepts in accordance with HHMI's objectives to tackle complex problems in creative and effective ways.

  • May determine methods and procedures on new assignments and may provide mentorship to staff in the laboratory.

QualificationsEducation
  • Ph.D. degree in a scientific field or MD degree


Skills and Abilities

  • Proven understanding of scientific principles

  • Exercises independent judgment in developing methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for acquiring results

  • Ability to perform highly complex experiments with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints

  • Operational knowledge of sophisticated lab equipment

  • Ability to provide work and supervise directions to others

  • Ability to initiate and compose communications for various purposes in an appropriate style

  • Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and congenial environment and foster this ability in others.

  • Ability to review goals, analyze processes vital to achieve those goals, and develop techniques and systems required to meet those goals. Often explores new areas and seeks opportunities to apply new knowledge to work.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Hiring Pay Range

Postdoc 00 - $70,000.00 - $91,000.00 (maximum)

Pay Type: Annual

The posted range reflects HHMI's good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate's qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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