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The differences between molecular biologists and postdoctoral associates can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-8 years to become a molecular biologist, becoming a postdoctoral associate takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a molecular biologist has an average salary of $73,763, which is higher than the $54,350 average annual salary of a postdoctoral associate.
The top three skills for a molecular biologist include CRISPR, next-generation sequencing and cell culture. The most important skills for a postdoctoral associate are patients, TIP, and data analysis.
| Molecular Biologist | Postdoctoral Associate | |
| Yearly salary | $73,763 | $54,350 |
| Hourly rate | $35.46 | $26.13 |
| Growth rate | 17% | 17% |
| Number of jobs | 22,019 | 18,093 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 61% | Doctoral Degree, 47% |
| Average age | 40 | 41 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 4 |
A molecular biologist is a specialist who explores and studies the complex functions of cells on a molecular level as well as the biological laws governing the operations of each cellular component. To conduct research and academic activities, molecular biologists use equipment such as microscopes, lab centrifuges, and computers with software that allows the analysis of obtained data. They are required to develop a new way to test the validity of drugs that are used to stimulate safe gene growth and fight off disease. Molecular biologists must also conduct workshops and practical demonstrations in universities and governmental agencies.
A postdoctoral associate is responsible for researching to support scientific claims and theories by collecting evidence and information to answer scientific questions. Postdoctoral associates must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written, to interact with people and document investigation findings. They also utilize laboratory tools and equipment for scientific researches, conduct field investigations, and interview participants. A postdoctoral associate designs comprehensive research models to discuss results with the panel and the team efficiently and accurately.
Molecular biologists and postdoctoral associates have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Molecular Biologist | Postdoctoral Associate | |
| Average salary | $73,763 | $54,350 |
| Salary range | Between $52,000 And $104,000 | Between $39,000 And $74,000 |
| Highest paying City | Urban Honolulu, HI | Berkeley, CA |
| Highest paying state | Hawaii | Maine |
| Best paying company | Novartis | Argonne National Laboratory |
| Best paying industry | Health Care | Education |
There are a few differences between a molecular biologist and a postdoctoral associate in terms of educational background:
| Molecular Biologist | Postdoctoral Associate | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 61% | Doctoral Degree, 47% |
| Most common major | Biology | Chemistry |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Duke University |
Here are the differences between molecular biologists' and postdoctoral associates' demographics:
| Molecular Biologist | Postdoctoral Associate | |
| Average age | 40 | 41 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 48.9% Female, 51.1% | Male, 63.2% Female, 36.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 2.7% Unknown, 5.1% Hispanic or Latino, 7.4% Asian, 17.3% White, 66.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6% | Black or African American, 5.7% Unknown, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 39.4% White, 42.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 10% | 8% |