How much does a Post-Doctoral Fellow make?
A Post-Doctoral Fellow often earns a competitive salary. On average, they make about $64,483 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific field of study. The range of salaries can be quite broad, with some fellows earning as little as $46,860 and others earning up to $110,100 or more.
The salary distribution shows that many Post-Doctoral Fellows earn between $52,609 and $81,355 annually. This range reflects the diversity in roles and responsibilities. Fellows in more specialized or research-intensive positions may earn higher salaries. Additionally, those in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living often receive more compensation to offset living expenses.
What are the highest paying cities for a Post-Doctoral Fellow?

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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $80,644
In Salt Lake City, a Post-Doctoral Fellow can explore research opportunities in a city known for its vibrant tech scene and outdoor activities. Companies like Intermountain Healthcare and the University of Utah offer diverse research projects.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,419
Minneapolis, with its strong academic presence, provides a rich environment for Post-Doctoral Fellows. Institutions like the University of Minnesota offer cutting-edge research opportunities in various fields.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $62,005
Working in Washington, DC, a Post-Doctoral Fellow can engage in impactful research with organizations like the National Institutes of Health. The city's political and academic hubs offer unique research prospects.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $60,895
Chicago offers a dynamic research environment with institutions like Northwestern University and the University of Chicago. Fellows can work on diverse projects in a city known for its academic and cultural richness.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $59,687
Richmond, with its growing tech and research sectors, provides a supportive environment for Post-Doctoral Fellows. Companies like the Virginia Commonwealth University offer promising research opportunities.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $58,304
Phoenix offers a vibrant research scene with institutions like Arizona State University. Fellows can work on innovative projects in a city known for its warm climate and growing industries.
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Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $55,773
Greensboro, with its strong academic institutions, offers a nurturing environment for Post-Doctoral Fellows. The city's research opportunities are supported by universities like the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $53,729
Fayetteville provides a supportive research environment with institutions like the University of Arkansas. Fellows can engage in meaningful research projects in a city known for its academic and natural beauty.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $52,547
Houston, with its diverse industries, offers a dynamic research environment for Post-Doctoral Fellows. Institutions like Baylor College of Medicine provide opportunities in various research fields.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $51,474
Boston, a hub for higher education, offers a rich research environment for Post-Doctoral Fellows. Institutions like Harvard University and MIT provide opportunities for groundbreaking research.
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What are the best companies a Post-Doctoral Fellow can work for?

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University of Kansas Medical Center
Average Salary: $68,105
The University of Kansas Medical Center offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in various research areas. The center is located in Kansas City, Kansas, and provides opportunities for fellows to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Fellows can expect to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to significant advancements in their fields.
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University of Colorado
Average Salary: $66,446
The University of Colorado offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions across multiple campuses, including Boulder and Denver. The university provides a rich research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Fellows can work with leading researchers and gain valuable experience in their chosen fields.
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New York University
Average Salary: $63,979
New York University offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in its renowned research centers. Located in New York City, NYU provides a vibrant academic environment. Fellows can engage in interdisciplinary research and benefit from the city's diverse resources and opportunities.
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Virginia Commonwealth University
Average Salary: $61,272
Virginia Commonwealth University offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in Richmond, Virginia. The university provides a supportive research environment with access to advanced facilities. Fellows can work on impactful research projects and collaborate with experienced faculty.
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University of South Carolina
Average Salary: $59,176
The University of South Carolina offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in Columbia, South Carolina. The university provides a collaborative research environment with opportunities to engage in innovative projects. Fellows can work with a diverse group of researchers and contribute to meaningful advancements.
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Clemson University
Average Salary: $56,563
Clemson University offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in Clemson, South Carolina. The university provides a supportive research environment with access to cutting-edge facilities. Fellows can work on impactful research projects and collaborate with experienced faculty.
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University of Houston
Average Salary: $52,318
The University of Houston offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in Houston, Texas. The university provides a vibrant research environment with access to advanced facilities. Fellows can engage in interdisciplinary research and benefit from the city's diverse resources and opportunities.
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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $50,000
LifeStance Health offers Post-Doctoral Fellow positions in various locations across the United States. The company provides a supportive environment for fellows to conduct research and clinical work. Fellows can gain valuable experience in both research and patient care.
How to earn more as a Post-Doctoral Fellow?
A Post-Doctoral Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to advance your career and increase your earning potential. By focusing on specific strategies, you can maximize your salary and benefits. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Skill Development: Continuously improve your skills through training and workshops. This makes you more valuable to potential employers.
- Networking: Build strong relationships with colleagues and mentors. Networking can lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
- Research Impact: Focus on impactful research that attracts funding. Successful projects can lead to higher salaries and grants.
- Publications: Publish your research in reputable journals. More publications can enhance your reputation and earning potential.
- Professional Experience: Gain experience in diverse settings. This broadens your skill set and makes you more attractive to employers.
By focusing on these factors, a Post-Doctoral Fellow can significantly increase their earning potential. Skill development, networking, impactful research, publications, and diverse professional experience all play a crucial role in achieving higher salaries and better job opportunities.



