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Postdoctoral Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Post-Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$48K - $65K/yr

This postdoc will perform research on 3D scene reconstruction, novel view synthesis and inverse rendering, building on state of the art techniques such as neural radiance fields, Gaussian splatting ...

Showing results 41-60

Postdoctoral information

See Reston, VA salary details

$26K

$61.4K

$86.9K

How much do postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral in Reston, VA is $61,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $69,200.00 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 Reston, VA?

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

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Postdoctoral jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Postdoctoral job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 78% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,404 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Post Doctoral Associate

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

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Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

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Job description

Job Description Summary
Organization's Summary Statement:
Postdoctoral Research Opportunity - Energy Transport and Conversion University of Maryland The Energy Transport and Ultrafast Spectroscopy Lab at the University of Maryland is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on cutting-edge projects in nano/macro-scale energy transport and conversion. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing experimental and/or computational approaches to address grand challenges in energy science and engineering. \uD83D\uDD17 Learn more about our research: Energy Transport Lab
The A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland serves as a catalyst for high-quality research, innovation, and learning, preparing our students to develop innovations that address the 21st-century Grand Challenges (e.g., energy, environment, security, and human health) and improve the human condition. The Clark School is dedicated to leading and transforming the engineering discipline and profession, accelerating entrepreneurship, and transforming research and learning activities into innovations that benefit millions.
Responsibilities:
• Conduct independent and collaborative research on thermal/energy transport at multiple length scales.
• Develop and apply advanced experimental thermometries and/or computational models.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
Minimum Qualifications:
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field.
• Strong background in thermal sciences, heat transfer, or energy systems.
• Demonstrated research productivity (journal publications, conference presentations).
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Position Details:
• Full-time, funded position with competitive salary and benefits.
• Initial appointment of 1 year, renewable based on performance and funding. How to
Physical Demands: N/A
Preferences:
Experience with computational tools (e.g., molecular dynamics, first-principles
calculations) and/or experimental methods (e.g., thermal metrology, materials
characterization, pump-probe measurements) is highly desirable.
Licenses/ Certifications: N/A
Additional Job Details
Required Application Materials: Cover letter, CV, List of references
Best Consideration Date: 08/15/2026
Posting Close Date: N/A
Open Until Filled: Yes
Financial Disclosure Required
No
For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.
Department
ENGR-Mechanical Engineering PM
Worker Sub-Type
Faculty Regular
Salary Range
$60,000 - $65,000
Benefits Summary
For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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