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Postdoctoral Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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Postdoctoral information

See Rhode Island salary details

$24.5K

$57.8K

$81.8K

How much do postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral in Rhode Island is $57,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $65,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges postdoctoral researchers face when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as balancing the demands of publishing, securing funding, and developing their own research identity while still working under a principal investigator. Navigating the path to independence can also involve building a professional network and gaining experience in grant writing and project management. Supportive mentors and institutional resources can help, but it's important to proactively seek out opportunities for leadership and collaboration to position yourself for future faculty or industry roles.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoralResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) often requiredMaster's or Ph.D., depending on the field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsIndustry labs, corporate R&D, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral researchers typically hold a Ph.D. and work in academic or research institutions to gain specialized experience. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but are employed in industry or corporate R&D settings. While both roles involve research, Postdoctoral positions are usually temporary and focused on academic advancement, whereas Research Scientists are often permanent staff working on applied projects in industry.

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 PhD), strong research skills, and deep subject matter expertise in your field. Proficiency with data analysis tools, laboratory techniques, and research software such as Python, R, or MATLAB is often required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills set candidates apart by enabling effective teamwork and dissemination of findings. These abilities are vital for driving original research, publishing impactful work, and advancing academic or industry careers.

What are postdoctoral researchers?

Postdoctoral researchers, often called 'postdocs,' are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in further academic or scientific research. They typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member to gain additional training, develop new skills, and contribute to research projects. Postdocs are a common step for those pursuing academic careers, but their experience can also be valuable for roles in industry or government. The position is usually temporary, lasting from one to several years, allowing researchers to deepen their expertise in a specialized field.
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral jobs in Rhode Island? For Postdoctoral jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,801 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


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Job description

Description
The Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Brown University invites applications for a Doherty Postdoctoral Fellowship in Ocean Sciences. This competitive postdoctoral fellowship will be awarded for a one-year period, with possible extension for a second year.
Postdoctoral associates will conduct independent research in association with Brown faculty in Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences. Postdoctoral associates also have opportunity to collaborate with graduate and undergraduate students in the department, as well as faculty in other departments/institutes. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact and identify potential research mentors from the departmental faculty ahead of applying
Qualifications
Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. (or equivalent) or should be a 2025-2026 degree candidate, for a position start date as early as July 1, 2026. Degree completion is required by the start date of the appointment, and may be from a relevant field of study including oceanic sciences, atmospheric sciences, geology, geophysics, geochemistry, physics, chemistry, mathematics and/or engineering.
For this position, Brown offers only the J-1 visa classification to scholars who need immigration sponsorship in order to enter the U.S. and commence lawful employment under the terms of their appointment.
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and a 3-5 page statement of research that includes a summary of research accomplishments, current research goals, identification of potential Brown faculty sponsor(s) and a short overview of proposed research to be conducted during the fellowship. Candidates should address how they would contribute to the research mission of our diverse and inclusive living-learning community.
Applications should be submitted via https://apply.interfolio.com/183855 Application review will begin on May 6, 2026.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

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