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Science Postdoctoral Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

... Science Postdoctoral Fellowship program. Under this program, the postdoctoral trainee will be co ... mentored by NU and JAX researchers working on "Grand Challenges" identified by Roux and JAX ...

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Science Postdoctoral information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do science postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for science postdoctoral in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Science Postdoctorals?

Science postdoctorals, often referred to as postdocs, are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. Postdocs work in academic, government, or industry settings to deepen their expertise in a specific scientific field, develop technical skills, and produce significant research outcomes. These positions typically last from one to five years and are considered crucial for scientists aiming to pursue independent research careers or academic positions.

What is the difference between Science Postdoctoral vs Research Scientist?

AspectScience PostdoctoralResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universitiesResearch institutions, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia, research grantsIndustry, corporate R&D, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Science Postdoctoral and a Research Scientist lies in their career stage and work setting. Science Postdoctoral roles are typically temporary positions in academic or research institutions focused on gaining specialized experience after a PhD. Research Scientists often hold more permanent roles in industry or government labs, with greater responsibilities and independence. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their credentials and professional goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Science Postdoctoral researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Science Postdoctoral researcher, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant scientific field, strong research methodology skills, and a proven track record of scientific publications. Proficiency with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as Python, R, or MATLAB), and familiarity with grant writing are commonly required. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and written communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These abilities are vital for conducting innovative research, contributing to scientific knowledge, and succeeding in a competitive academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Science Postdoctoral researchers during their appointment?

Science Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding, balancing independent research with collaborative projects, and managing the pressure to publish results. Navigating the transition from student to independent researcher can also be demanding, as postdocs are expected to develop new skills in project management, mentoring, and grant writing. Additionally, building a professional network and establishing a clear career trajectory are important and sometimes difficult aspects of the postdoctoral experience.
More about Science Postdoctoral jobs
What states have the most Science Postdoctoral jobs? States with the most job openings for Science Postdoctoral jobs include:
Center for Marine Science - Postdoctoral Scholar

Center for Marine Science - Postdoctoral Scholar

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Vacancy Number
PD-0030
Working Title
Center for Marine Science - Postdoctoral Scholar
Position Number
Pooled
Location of Workplace
CMS Myrtle Grove
Brief Summary of Work for this Position
The Center for Marine Science invites applications for Postdoctoral Scholars with the ability to research in one or more of the following Sciences departments and disciplines:
  • Marine Biology
  • Oceanography
  • Coastal Engineering
  • Marine Science
  • Applied Coastal and Ocean Sciences
  • Coastal and Wetland Studies
  • Estuarine Science
  • Marine Physiology and Genetics
  • Fisheries
  • Aquaculture
  • Marine Biotechnology
  • Marine Policy and Education
  • Marine and Atmospheric Chemistry
  • Marine Geology
  • Environmental Sciences

UNCW postdoctoral scholars gain important training and research experience through their relationship with the university in ways that support and fulfill the research, scholarship, and teaching missions of the institution. The primary responsibility of the postdoctoral scholar is to conduct research and upon initial appointment, may provide oversight of research projects and personnel, project management, assistance in development and writing of proposals and manuscripts, data acquisition, higher-level interpretation of computational results and comprehensive data analysis. These activities may be carried out in both field and laboratory settings. Postdoctoral scholars will interact with a variety of academic departments, various units within Business Affairs and Academic Affairs and other UNCW departments as needed for project management.
The UNCW postdoctoral scholar will:
  • Have a primary faculty mentor.
  • Develop an Individual Development Plan (IDP) in coordination with their faculty mentor.
  • Participate in professional development programming offered through the University.

Appointment Description
Postdoctoral appointments are term-limited based on the availability of funding. Postdoctoral scholars are typically assigned 12-month full-time appointments for a 1-2 year term appointment not to exceed a total of five years.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
  • Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in one of the science fields listed above and conferred before the appointment start date, but no more than five (5) years prior to the appointment start date.
  • Exceptions to the 5-year degree requirement may be waived in exceptional circumstances.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Required Certifications or Licensure
Department
Center for Marine Science - 30600
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
UNCW's Center for Marine Science has a rich history that spans over 50 years. Coastal access helps us provide an enriching learning environment for students, faculty and staff interested in the marine sciences.
College
Center for Marine Science - 306 College
College/School Information
The Center for Marine Science at UNC Wilmington is dedicated to providing an environment that fosters a multidisciplinary approach to questions in basic and applied coastal and marine research. The mission of the center is to support and promote coastal and marine science at UNCW, including research, outreach and service, and teaching.
This includes a variety of fields such as oceanography, coastal and wetland studies, estuarine science, marine physiology and genetics, fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, marine policy and education, and other aspects of marine biology, marine and atmospheric chemistry, marine geology, environmental studies/sciences, and physical oceanography.
The center fosters research programs of the highest quality and thereby enhances the educational experience provided by The University of North Carolina Wilmington for both undergraduate and graduate students in marine science.
University Information
The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state's coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching, mentoring, research and service. Widely acknowledged for its world-class faculty and staff and continuously recognized at a national level for scholarly excellence and affordability, UNCW offers a powerful academic experience that stimulates creative inquiry and critical thinking.
A public institution with nearly 18,000 students, UNCW offers a full range of baccalaureate- and graduate-level programs, as well as doctoral degrees in educational leadership, marine biology, nursing practice and psychology; and many distance learning options, including clinical research, an accelerated RN-to-BSN program, an Executive M.B.A. program structured for working professionals, and the nation's only bachelor's degree program focused on coastal engineering.
The university's efforts to advance research and scholarly activities have earned UNCW the elevated designation of "Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity" institution (R2 University) by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
UNCW has been part of the University of North Carolina System since 1969.
EEO Statement
UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents - except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Prior to the official appointment to the university, the candidate(s) selected for hire must be able to demonstrate educational credential requirements for the postdoctoral position based on official transcripts and other documentation as required. If the candidate(s) will teach during their appointment, then additional teaching credentials are required. UNC Wilmington participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Number of Openings
Special Notes to Applicants
Please note, this is a postdoctoral position. The length of the assignment will be based on department need with the possibility of continuation. Employees in postdoc positions are considered temporary positions (non-permanent state employees) but do qualify for postdoctoral medical insurance and paid leave, unlike other temporary employees at the university. More information about postdoctoral employees can be found in the Postdoc Handbook.
To receive consideration, please be sure you have fully completed the entire application before you apply for this position. For more info/to apply visit the applicant portal. Applications must be submitted through the online application system by 11:59pm EST of the posting close date to be considered.
Requested Job Posting Date
03/27/2026
Posting Close Date
06/30/2026
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.uncw.edu/postings/38866