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Senior Postdoc Jobs in Fulton, MO (NOW HIRING)

Senior Postdoc information

See Fulton, MO salary details

$21.5K

$69K

$140.4K

How much do senior postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior postdoc in Fulton, MO is $68,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,600.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Postdoc, you need advanced research expertise in your field, a PhD, and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications. Familiarity with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and grant-writing platforms is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you mentor junior researchers and collaborate across teams. These competencies are crucial for advancing research projects, securing funding, and building a professional academic profile.

Is a postdoc harder than a PhD?

A senior postdoc role typically involves more independent research, advanced skills, and project management compared to a PhD. While a PhD focuses on completing a dissertation and gaining foundational expertise, a postdoc emphasizes producing publishable results and establishing an independent research profile, which can be more demanding in terms of responsibility and expertise.

What is the highest postdoc salary?

The highest postdoctoral salaries can vary depending on the field, institution, and location, but top-paying positions often exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually. Some specialized or senior postdocs in competitive research environments may earn over $100,000, especially with additional funding or grants. Salary levels are influenced by experience, funding sources, and institutional policies.

What opportunities for independent research and mentorship are typically available to Senior Postdocs?

Senior Postdocs often have increased autonomy to design and lead their own research projects, building on the skills acquired during earlier postdoctoral training. In addition to conducting advanced experiments, they are frequently involved in mentoring junior lab members, such as graduate students and newer postdocs, which helps develop leadership skills. Many institutions encourage Senior Postdocs to apply for independent funding and to present their work at conferences, preparing them for future faculty or industry leadership roles. This combination of research independence and mentorship experience is key for career advancement in academia or research-intensive positions.

How old is the average postdoc?

The average age of a senior postdoc is typically between 30 and 35 years old, reflecting the time spent completing doctoral studies and gaining research experience. Many postdocs are in their late 20s to early 40s, depending on the field and career path. Age can vary based on individual circumstances and career progression.

What is the difference between Senior Postdoc vs Postdoctoral Research Associate?

AspectSenior PostdocPostdoctoral Research Associate
CredentialsPhD, extensive research experiencePhD, early career researcher
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, leading projectsSupporting research, assisting senior staff
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutesUniversities, research labs
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior research rolesEntry-level postdoc roles

The main difference between a Senior Postdoc and a Postdoctoral Research Associate lies in experience and responsibilities. Senior Postdocs typically lead projects and work more independently, while Postdoctoral Research Associates support research activities under supervision. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Senior Postdoc is a more advanced, autonomous position.

What is a Senior Postdoc?

A Senior Postdoc is an experienced postdoctoral researcher who has completed several years of postdoctoral training after earning a PhD. They typically take on greater responsibilities than junior postdocs, such as leading research projects, mentoring students, and contributing significantly to grant writing and publications. Senior Postdocs may also assist in supervising lab operations and may be preparing for independent academic or industry positions. This role often serves as a bridge between postdoctoral work and more senior roles like principal investigator or faculty positions.

Is it hard to get a postdoc position?

Securing a senior postdoc position can be competitive, often requiring a strong research record, relevant skills, and a PhD in a related field. Success depends on the availability of openings, the candidate's qualifications, and the fit with the research group or institution.
Infographic showing various Senior Postdoc job openings in Fulton, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 15% Internship, 54% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 13% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,959 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
SENIOR APPLIED RESEARCH ECONOMIST

SENIOR APPLIED RESEARCH ECONOMIST

University of Missouri

Columbia, MO • On-site

$75K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


University Of Missouri rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

352nd of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Hiring Department
Division of Applied Social Sciences - RaFF
Job Description
The Senior Applied Research Economist advances the Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF's) state-level farm income projections and large-scale projects. This position requires developing and enhancing policy models; disseminating research to academic, policy, and producer audiences; engaging with stakeholders; and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The role provides opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research and is intended for candidates with the potential to become recognized experts in applied agricultural economics and policy analysis.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and enhance models used for policy analysis with specific emphasis on regional (sub-national) financial outcomes.
  • Create and improve state-level farm income models and regional models of agricultural lending portfolios.
  • Develop new tools for market and policy analysis.
  • Engage with stakeholders, farm and rural finance experts, and researchers to monitor market and policy developments.
  • Prepare reports and publications for academic and applied outlets.
  • Present findings to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers and producers.
  • Lead large research projects and contribute to RaFF's visibility at the national level.
  • Pursue opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research.

Shift
Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
PhD in Agricultural Economics, Applied Economics, Economics, or related field with 2+ years of post-PhD experience; OR Master's degree with 5+ years of post-MS experience; OR
Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of relevant experience.
  • Knowledge of U.S. agricultural practices, markets, and policies.
  • Familiarity with structural economic models, partial equilibrium models, and econometrics.
  • Willingness to lead collaborative projects.
  • Proficiency with R and Microsoft Excel.
  • Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows.
  • Strong communication skills in English with experience in written and oral communication across audiences.

Anticipated Hiring Range
The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $75,000-$125,000/year.
Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Grade: GGS-012
University Title: Senior Research Consultant
To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.
Application Materials
Submit a single PDF that includes:
  1. Cover Letter (research achievements, interests, and goals)
  2. Current CV.
  3. Contact information for three references. Finalists may be asked to provide additional references or transcripts.

Other Information
Candidates will be evaluated on:
  • Familiarity with U.S. agricultural policy, commodity markets and farm finance.
  • Amount and level of experience in applied economic analysis.
  • Experience collaborating with colleagues.
  • Analytical skills.
  • Quality of peer-reviewed publications or policy reports.
  • Effective communication.

Community Information
Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits .
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer .
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

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About University of Missouri

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The University of Missouri, based in Columbia, MO, US; is a public, land-grant research institution with an established reputation in academic excellence, industry relevance, and societal impact. Founded in 1839, it was the first public university located west of the Mississippi River. The institution spans various industries in the education sector with its multitude of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines. The University's mission is centered on improving lives, enhancing communities, advancing health, and fostering excellence through its teaching, research, and engagement activities. U-M has some significant achievements under its belt including pioneering the world's first school of journalism and being one of the only six public universities in the US that accommodates medicine, veterinary medicine, and law in one campus.

Industry

Education

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MO, US

Year founded

1839

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