1

Postgraduate Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Postgraduate Research Associate information

See salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do postgraduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

More about Postgraduate Research Associate jobs
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:
Infographic showing various Postgraduate Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 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.

$56K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Re-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

310th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Posting Details
Department
Cell Biology and Physiology - 422001
Posting Open Date
06/29/2023
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled
Yes
Position Type
Postdoctoral Scholar
Position Title
Post-Doc Research Associate
Vacancy ID
PDS003909
Full-time/Part-time
Full-Time Temporary
Hours per week
40
FTE
1
Work Location
Chapel Hill, NC
Position Location
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
$56,485 - $59,592
Proposed Start Date
09/01/2023
Estimated Duration of Appointment
12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
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 has over 50 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.
Position Summary
This postdoctoral position will join the Caron Laboratory in order to study mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) interactions with receptor activity modifying proteins (RAMPs). The postdoctoral fellow will use 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. 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.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
PhD or MD/PhD obtained within the last 3 years, in either pharmacology, biochemistry, cell biology, physiology, medicinal chemistry, biology or other biomedical-related discipline
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Highly motivated individuals with good communication skills and previous experience in biochemistry, cell biology, physiology and/or pharmacology.
A publication record in internationally-recognized, peer-reviewed journals is required. A publication record in internationally-recognized, peer-reviewed journals is required.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Candidates with previous experience in GPCR pharmacology, BRET/FRET assays, receptor signaling assays and/or protein analysis are encouraged to apply.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Special Instructions
Preference will be given to those individuals who provide a 1-page summary of how their interests might fit into the current focus areas of the lab. Applicants should upload a Cover Letter and their full academic curriculum vitae, which includes the name and contact information for 3 references.
Quick Link
https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/260602
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title
Sarah Willis, HR Consultant
Department Contact Telephone or Email
sarah_a_willis@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 Equal Employment Opportunity office at (919) 966-3576 or send an email to equalopportunity@unc.edu.
Please note: The Equal Employment Opportunity office 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.

What University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill logo

About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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