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How much do postgraduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for postgraduate research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Postgraduate Research Associate?

A Postgraduate Research Associate is an individual who has recently completed their postgraduate studies, usually at the master's or doctoral level, and is employed by a university or research institution to contribute to specific research projects. Their responsibilities often include conducting experiments, analyzing data, reviewing literature, and assisting with the preparation of research publications and grant proposals. This position allows early-career researchers to gain further research experience, develop specialized skills, and collaborate with established academics before progressing to more senior academic or industry roles.

How does a Postgraduate Research Associate typically collaborate with principal investigators and other team members during a research project?

Postgraduate Research Associates frequently work closely with principal investigators (PIs) to design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. They often participate in regular team meetings, where they discuss progress, troubleshoot challenges, and plan next steps alongside graduate students, technicians, and other associates. Effective communication and documentation are crucial, as research associates may contribute to publications or grant proposals. Collaboration is integral to the role, fostering both professional growth and the advancement of research objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postgraduate Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postgraduate Research Associate, you typically need a relevant postgraduate degree (such as a master's or PhD), strong analytical skills, and experience in research methodologies. Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, MATLAB) and laboratory or field-specific equipment is often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and strong organizational skills help individuals excel in this collaborative and demanding environment. These competencies are essential to produce high-quality research, effectively disseminate findings, and contribute value to academic or scientific projects.

What is the difference between Postgraduate Research Associate vs Research Assistant?

AspectPostgraduate Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's degree
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, universitiesResearch labs, universities, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, research centers, private companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Postgraduate Research Associate typically holds a master's or PhD and engages in independent research within academic or research institutions. In contrast, a Research Assistant usually has a bachelor's or master's degree and supports research activities under supervision. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Research Associate often leads projects, while the Research Assistant provides support.

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What cities are hiring for Postgraduate Research Associate jobs? Cities with the most Postgraduate Research Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postgraduate Research jobs? The most popular types of Postgraduate Research jobs are:
What states have the most Postgraduate Research Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Postgraduate Research Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Postgraduate Research Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Postgraduate Research Associate jobs are:
Postgraduate Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postgraduate Research Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Post-Doc Research Associate

Post-Doc Research Associate

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

280th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Department Cell Biology and Physiology - 422001 Posting Open Date 08/22/2024 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS004325 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location Hiring Range Dependent on Qualifications Proposed Start Date Estimated Duration of Appointment 12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Department of Cell Biology and Physiology is a broad and interdisciplinary basic science department in the School of Medicine at UNC-CH. As a top-ranked, nationally recognized leader in basic science research, our faculty and staff are engaged in innovative and cutting-edge research in the areas of neuroscience, cardiovascular biology, cellular cytoskeleton, cell motility and imaging. The Department houses one PhD program: the Cell Biology and Physiology Curriculum in which there are currently enrolled 48 PhD candidates. The Department has approximately 55 faculty engaged in basic science research, education, and national service. Many faculty and their laboratories provide training for undergraduate and postgraduate trainees in the biomedical sciences. The department also has 2 Core Facilities to expedite the mission of our researchers.
Position Summary
Several Post-Doctoral Positions are available in the Laboratory of Kathleen M. Caron in the Department of Cell Biology & Physiology at the Univ. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to study mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) interactions with receptor activity modifying proteins (RAMPs). Our laboratory uses novel gene targeting approaches coupled with state-of-the-art phenotyping methods to address the effects of quantitative genetic variation of Class B GPCRs and RAMPs: http://caronlab.web.unc.edu/ The current position is to expand on these efforts by providing complementary in vitro biochemical and pharmacological approaches to elucidate the receptor mechanisms that underlie the in vivo phenotypes, as well as elucidate novel RAMP-GPCR interacting partners. Characterization of novel or orphan receptors in native cells is an area of focus. Highly motivated individuals with good communication skills and previous experience in biochemistry and/or pharmacology are encouraged to apply. Candidates with previous experience in GPCR pharmacology, BRET/FRET, receptor signaling assays and/or protein analysis are encouraged to apply. A PhD or MD/PhD and a publication record in internationally recognized journals is required. Preference will be given to those individuals who provide a summary of how their interests might fit into the current focus areas of the lab. 
The quality of life in North Carolina's Triangle area is consistently rated among the highest in the Nation, with growing opportunities in biotechnology. UNC faculty, postdocs and graduate students also routinely interact with colleagues at nearby Duke and North Carolina State Universities, as well as other institutions in Research Triangle Park. UNC's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs provides exceptional resources and career development opportunities, making UNC-CH one of the premiere places for postdoctoral training across the nation.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
PhD or MD/PhD, or similar degree
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
A publication record in internationally recognized journals is required.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Prefer candidates with previous experience in biochemistry and/or pharmacology, and with experience in GPCR pharmacology, BRET/FRET, receptor signaling assays and/or protein analysis.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Application will require a curriculum vita, cover letter, one-page description of research interests, and contact information for three references.
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/286864
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Matthew Tucci HR Consultant Department Contact Telephone or Email matthew_tucci@med.unc.edu Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.
Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity, employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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