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Postdoctoral Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533561 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535677 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Natural Resources Department: Geography Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534769 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Science Department: Physics Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories:

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536409 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536638 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: College of Engineering Department: Chemical Engineering Location: Blacksburg ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 529622 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location:

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How much do postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral in Virginia is $58,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $65,900.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia? For Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoctoral job openings:
Postdoctoral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,515 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate
Job no: 533561
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Physics
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment in the group of Prof. Vito Scarola at Virginia Tech (scarola.phys.vt.edu). The research involves the construction and optimization of measurement-based quantum computing protocols for quantum simulation of quantum many-body models. Preference will be given to candidates familiar with the stabilizer formalism and the theory of quantum graph states. Additional expertise in computational methods would be useful but is not necessary. The Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associate positions will also involve opportunities for travel (once scientific travel is restored and safe) to present in conferences and to collaborate with other groups. Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associates will conduct research in the above areas and disseminate results in journal publications and conference presentations. Senior Research Associates will have additional responsibilities with mentoring the junior group members.
Required Qualifications
-Postdoctoral associate applicants must have a background in quantum information and hold a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, Theoretical Quantum Chemistry, or a closely related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
- Senior research associate applicants must have a Ph.D. in either Theoretical Physics, Theoretical Quantum Chemistry or a closely related field. Prior postdoctoral experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with the stabilizer formalism and the theory of quantum graph states.
- Expertise in computational methods
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Hours per week
40
Review Date
Until Filled
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at woodyaj@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: June 27, 2025
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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