How to Find a Postdoctoral Research Position

Thinking about your next step after a Ph.D.? If you’re aiming to stay in academia—or even just want to deepen your expertise—a postdoc can be a powerful move. It’s a chance to grow more independent, explore new fields, gain fresh skills, or even pivot to a different model system. Whether your goal is to become a principal investigator (PI) or break into industry, a postdoc can be a valuable launchpad.

But how do you actually find one?

Here are three common and effective strategies:

1. Networking

Yes, we know—it can sound awkward. But networking doesn’t always mean small talk over wine and cheese. It could be a great conversation after someone stops by your poster at a conference, or connecting with a speaker over lunch after a seminar. These casual, genuine interactions can lead to real opportunities.

Don’t forget to follow up—send that email or LinkedIn request. Let your advisors, friends, and colleagues know you're looking. Many postdocs land positions through word of mouth and personal recommendations.

2. Cold Emails

Emailing a PI out of the blue might seem intimidating, but it’s a proven method. Do your research—read their papers, understand their work, and explain why you’re interested in their lab. Mention what you bring to the table and what you hope to learn.

Didn’t hear back? Don’t panic—follow up politely. Persistence (not spamming!) can pay off.

3. Job Listings

Many PIs post open positions online—yes, it really happens. The challenge is finding the right places to look.

That’s where we come in.

🎯 Webofjobs.com is your go-to platform for academic and research jobs worldwide.
Explore thousands of postdoc listings, set up alerts, and take control of your next move.

Webofjobs.com — where talent meets opportunity.

We’ve carefully curated a selection of exceptional postdoctoral opportunities across a range of academic disciplines. These positions offer a unique chance for early-career researchers to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research, collaborate with esteemed scholars, and contribute to innovative academic projects. Whether you're seeking to enhance your expertise in a specific field, broaden your research scope, or engage with interdisciplinary teams, these postdocs provide a supportive environment for professional growth.

We highly encourage researchers at various stages of their academic careers to consider applying. These opportunities not only foster personal and intellectual development but also provide the platform to make meaningful contributions to your field. Take the next step in advancing your career and expanding your academic network by applying to these exciting positions today!