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Senior Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Durham, NC · On-site

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

Postdoctoral Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

Duke University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Durham, NC · On-site

The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of ... supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral ...

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will perform basic or applied research of a limited scope ... Ability to communicate and coordinate with multiple senior researchers from different fields.

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Senior Postdoc information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior postdoc in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 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.
More about Senior Postdoc jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Postdoc jobs? Cities with the most Senior Postdoc job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs? The most popular types of Postdoc jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Postdoc jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Postdoc jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Postdoc jobs are:
Senior Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Postdoc job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 76% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533561
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Physics
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment in the group of Prof. Vito Scarola at Virginia Tech (scarola.phys.vt.edu).  The research involves the construction and optimization of measurement-based quantum computing protocols for quantum simulation of quantum many-body models.  Preference will be given to candidates familiar with the stabilizer formalism and the theory of quantum graph states.  Additional expertise in computational methods would be useful but is not necessary.  The Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associate positions will also involve opportunities for travel (once scientific travel is restored and safe) to present in conferences and to collaborate with other groups. Postdoctoral and Senior Research Associates will conduct research in the above areas and disseminate results in journal publications and conference presentations. Senior Research Associates will have additional responsibilities with mentoring the junior group members.

Required Qualifications

-Postdoctoral associate applicants must have a background in quantum information and hold a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, Theoretical Quantum Chemistry, or a closely related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
- Senior research associate applicants must have a Ph.D. in either Theoretical Physics, Theoretical Quantum Chemistry or a closely related field. Prior postdoctoral experience.

Preferred Qualifications

- Familiarity with the stabilizer formalism and the theory of quantum graph states.
- Expertise in computational methods

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Hours per week

40

Review Date

Until Filled

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at woodyaj@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: June 27, 2025
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

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