Postdoctoral Research Associate's Job Profile
The main purpose for the appointment of postdocs is to prepare the candidates who have been recently awarded doctorate certificates to take up the responsibilities of a career in research. The guidelines make sure that these individuals get meaningful guidance along with support to develop a great career.
Postdoctoral research associates are expected to conduct and plan research projects in an autonomous way while working together with UM staff, faculty, students and other postdocs. They are responsible for maintaining accurate records and analyzing results. The postdoctoral research associate also involves themselves in the preparation of manuscripts for the publications that are collaborated with UM staff, faculty and students. They also present research papers at seminars and professional meets, along with mentoring undergraduate and graduate students for carrying out research in a qualified manner.
Skills Required
Prior experience is preferred by almost all the employers. Candidates should also be safety conscious, motivated and have advance lab skills. They should have also be adept at written and oral communication because for presenting research papers at technical meetings and publications. Ability to work in and collaborate with a team is must for candidates looking for postdoctoral research associate positions. They have to interact with their colleagues and therefore they must express themselves efficiently. Postdoctoral research associates have to communicate to the target or subject specific market of audience, so they should be the best in communicating.
Academic Qualifications and Training
There are a lot of training programs held for aspiring postdoctoral research associates. They can gain experience in new fields while expanding experience in applied and experimental research as well as theoretical analysis.
Employers usually look for recent Ph.D. certifications in chemistry, engineering, chemistry, material science and some other related field. They should have critical analysis and communicative skills that are easily recognized by research publications. With relevant experience, prospective candidates should be able to work in multidisciplinary teams and also communicate results and ideas in an effective manner.
Salary and Job Prospects
The starting salary of postdoctoral research associates ranges from $76,000 to $86,000 with additional benefits. For research associates, salaries hold lesser importance as compared to other perks. The job outlook for postdoctoral research associates varies on the basis of industries. Clinical research has the most favorable prospect for candidates with improved knowledge of emerging medications and treatment options.
The job of a postdoctoral associate is not an easy one. It demands a lot of hard work, careful planning, sleepless nights and mentoring students. There are contract jobs available for these individuals. You will have to complete research goals by carrying out investigations and experiments. Postdoctoral associates are also expected to look after the design experiments and assist group leads.
