1

Postdoctoral Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

$52 - $70/hr

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Developmental Neurobiology - Solecki Lab Location Memphis, TN Category Postdoc Department Shift Weekday Day Position Type Full Time Scheduled Weekly Hours 40 JR7468 ...

New

$55 - $75/hr

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Quantitative Microscopy and Live-Cell Chromatin Imaging Location Memphis, TN Category Postdoc Department Shift Weekday Day Position Type Full Time Scheduled Weekly ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Postdoctoral information

See Tennessee salary details

$22.7K

$53.6K

$75.8K

How much do postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral in Tennessee is $53,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $60,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral researcher?

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Postdoctoral jobs in Tennessee?

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Postdoctoral jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Postdoctoral job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,569 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Immunology - Wu lab

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, TN • On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available within the Department of Immunology in the lab of Chuan Wu.
A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the Wu Laboratory at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The Wu Lab investigates the mechanisms that maintain intestinal homeostasis and host defense, with a focus on immune-neuron communication in the gut, host-microbiota interactions, and the regulation of intestinal epithelial barrier function during health and inflammation. Using cutting-edge molecular, cellular, immunological, and genomic approaches, the successful candidate will contribute to studies with direct relevance to inflammatory bowel disease and other immune-mediated disorders. This position offers outstanding opportunities for scientific discovery, multidisciplinary collaboration, and career development in a world-class research environment.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our 300 faculty work across the spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and population science in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune Magazine's "Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma" and Glassdoor's "Best Places to Work," and is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture.
We are in pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at St. Jude, you will have:
  • A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial Efficiency: Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.

  • Customized Professional and Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for success beyond their training. This includes access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance, and so much more.

  • Competitive Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and invest in talent.

  • A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.

What St. Jude Children's Research Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom