Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Postdoctoral researcher roles are among the most reliably sponsored positions in the U.S. Universities and research institutions regularly file H-1B visa, J-1 visa, and O-1 visa petitions for postdocs. Most positions require a completed Ph.D. and are tied to specific grant funding. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Posting Number F00785P
Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate
Department Electrical Engineering
Location Arlington
Job Family Faculty
Position Status Full-time
Rank Post-Doc
Work Hours Standard
Open to External and Internal
FLSA Exempt
Duration Funding expected to continue
Pay Basis Monthly
Benefits Eligible Yes
Job Summary
The Electrical Department in the College of Engineering, at the University of Texas at Arlington, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, Non-Tenure Status.
Benefits at UTA
We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees at the University.
To help you understand the full value of these benefits, we have created a tool that calculates the total worth of your compensation package. This tool takes into account all of the benefits that you are eligible for, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. To access this tool and learn more about the total value of your benefits, please click on the following link:
https://resources.uta.edu/hr/services/records/compensation-tools.php
CBC Requirement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington to conduct a criminal background check on any applicant who is under final consideration for employment with the University.
This position may have access to critical infrastructure as defined by Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code. If so, to be hired for and continue to be employed in this position you must maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure as set forth in Texas Executive Order GA-48. By assuming this position, and if you have access to critical infrastructure, you authorize the University to conduct routine background checks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The candidate should be able to work independently under the supervision of Professor Weidong Zhou. Major duties are:
- To lead and carry out sponsored research projects related to photonic crystal optoelectronic and nanophotonic devices and systems
- To provide project management including scheduling, team management, and reporting
- To present and publish the research results
Required Qualifications
Requires a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, with strong theoretical and experimental background in nanophotonics and optoelectronics devices. Extensive micro- and nano-fabrication experience is a must.
Preferred Qualifications
Special Conditions for Eligibility
Department Information
The Department of Electrical Engineering at UTA is part of the College of Engineering, one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering schools in Texas. The department leads innovation in semiconductors, photonics, power systems, autonomous technologies, and healthcare. Supported by top-tier facilities and strong institutional backing, students gain real-world experience through research, internships, and industry-sponsored capstone projects. With a versatile curriculum spanning software, systems design, nanofabrication, and machine learning, the program prepares graduates to drive progress in fields like renewable energy, 5G, cyber-physical systems, and smart infrastructure.
University Information
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that is home to over 7 million people, one of the fastest-growing tech economies in the United States, and a wide array of arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. As a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution, UTA is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of more than 42,000 students, UTA is the second largest in the University of Texas System. As a result of its combination of rigorous academics and innovative research, UTA is designated as a Carnegie R-1 “Very High Research Activity” institution and nationally recognized for its commitment to student success and service. It ranks No. 5 in Military Times’ “Best for Vets: Colleges” and is the top university in North Texas for its graduates’ salaries (The Wall Street Journal). UTA is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and is No. 6 for undergraduate ethnic diversity in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With a global alumni network of approximately 280,000 – including leaders at many of the 24 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas – UTA contributes an estimated $29 billion annually to the Texas economy.
UTA is expanding its regional footprint by building a regional campus, called UTA West, in Parker County on the far west side of Fort Worth. It is scheduled to open in fall 2028. This initiative aligns with the university’s strategic growth and commitment to serving the broader community. Furthermore, UTA has launched the RISE 100 initiative, aiming to recruit 100 new tenure-system faculty to strengthen its research enterprise and leadership in key academic areas. Learn more at https://www.uta.edu/administration/president/strategic-plan/rise100.
This is an exciting time to join UTA and contribute to its bold vision for the future.
EEO Statement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA or The University) to provide an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and/or veteran status. The University also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and gender expression. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. Constitutionally-protected expression will not be considered discrimination or harassment under this policy. It is the responsibility of all departments, employees, and students to ensure the University’s compliance with this policy.
ADA Accommodations
The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to 817-272-5554 or email ADADocs@uta.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 09/01/2026
Open Date 08/03/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, applicants should go to https://uta.peopleadmin.com/postings/34645 and submit the following materials:
- Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Contact information for 2 references
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration.
Questions may be addressed to Dr. Weidong Zhou at wzhou@uta.edu.
For more information about UTA, please visit: http://www.uta.edu/uta.
Position Information
Posting Number F00785P
Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate
Department Electrical Engineering
Location Arlington
Job Family Faculty
Position Status Full-time
Rank Post-Doc
Work Hours Standard
Open to External and Internal
FLSA Exempt
Duration Funding expected to continue
Pay Basis Monthly
Benefits Eligible Yes
Job Summary
The Electrical Department in the College of Engineering, at the University of Texas at Arlington, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, Non-Tenure Status.
Benefits at UTA
We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees at the University.
To help you understand the full value of these benefits, we have created a tool that calculates the total worth of your compensation package. This tool takes into account all of the benefits that you are eligible for, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. To access this tool and learn more about the total value of your benefits, please click on the following link:
https://resources.uta.edu/hr/services/records/compensation-tools.php
CBC Requirement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington to conduct a criminal background check on any applicant who is under final consideration for employment with the University.
This position may have access to critical infrastructure as defined by Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code. If so, to be hired for and continue to be employed in this position you must maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure as set forth in Texas Executive Order GA-48. By assuming this position, and if you have access to critical infrastructure, you authorize the University to conduct routine background checks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The candidate should be able to work independently under the supervision of Professor Weidong Zhou. Major duties are:
- To lead and carry out sponsored research projects related to photonic crystal optoelectronic and nanophotonic devices and systems
- To provide project management including scheduling, team management, and reporting
- To present and publish the research results
Required Qualifications
Requires a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, with strong theoretical and experimental background in nanophotonics and optoelectronics devices. Extensive micro- and nano-fabrication experience is a must.
Preferred Qualifications
Special Conditions for Eligibility
Department Information
The Department of Electrical Engineering at UTA is part of the College of Engineering, one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering schools in Texas. The department leads innovation in semiconductors, photonics, power systems, autonomous technologies, and healthcare. Supported by top-tier facilities and strong institutional backing, students gain real-world experience through research, internships, and industry-sponsored capstone projects. With a versatile curriculum spanning software, systems design, nanofabrication, and machine learning, the program prepares graduates to drive progress in fields like renewable energy, 5G, cyber-physical systems, and smart infrastructure.
University Information
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, a vibrant and diverse metropolitan area that is home to over 7 million people, one of the fastest-growing tech economies in the United States, and a wide array of arts, entertainment, and cultural activities. As a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution, UTA is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of more than 42,000 students, UTA is the second largest in the University of Texas System. As a result of its combination of rigorous academics and innovative research, UTA is designated as a Carnegie R-1 “Very High Research Activity” institution and nationally recognized for its commitment to student success and service. It ranks No. 5 in Military Times’ “Best for Vets: Colleges” and is the top university in North Texas for its graduates’ salaries (The Wall Street Journal). UTA is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and is No. 6 for undergraduate ethnic diversity in the United States (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With a global alumni network of approximately 280,000 – including leaders at many of the 24 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas – UTA contributes an estimated $29 billion annually to the Texas economy.
UTA is expanding its regional footprint by building a regional campus, called UTA West, in Parker County on the far west side of Fort Worth. It is scheduled to open in fall 2028. This initiative aligns with the university’s strategic growth and commitment to serving the broader community. Furthermore, UTA has launched the RISE 100 initiative, aiming to recruit 100 new tenure-system faculty to strengthen its research enterprise and leadership in key academic areas. Learn more at https://www.uta.edu/administration/president/strategic-plan/rise100.
This is an exciting time to join UTA and contribute to its bold vision for the future.
EEO Statement
It is the policy of The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA or The University) to provide an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. In accordance with federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and/or veteran status. The University also prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and gender expression. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. Constitutionally-protected expression will not be considered discrimination or harassment under this policy. It is the responsibility of all departments, employees, and students to ensure the University’s compliance with this policy.
ADA Accommodations
The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to 817-272-5554 or email ADADocs@uta.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 09/01/2026
Open Date 08/03/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, applicants should go to https://uta.peopleadmin.com/postings/34645 and submit the following materials:
- Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Contact information for 2 references
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration.
Questions may be addressed to Dr. Weidong Zhou at wzhou@uta.edu.
For more information about UTA, please visit: http://www.uta.edu/uta.
See all 1,006+ Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Postdoctoral Researcher roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs
Target research universities over private companies
Universities and national labs are cap-exempt H-1B employers, meaning they can file year-round without entering the lottery. This gives postdoc applicants a significant timing advantage over candidates pursuing industry roles.
Understand the J-1 vs. H-1B tradeoff
Many institutions default to J-1 visas for postdocs because they're faster and cheaper to process. Check whether the J-1 carries a two-year home residency requirement before accepting, as it limits future green card options.
Confirm your Ph.D. is the qualifying credential
H-1B sponsorship for postdoc roles requires a specialty occupation match. Your doctorate must be in a field directly related to the research area. A biology Ph.D. supporting a computational biology postdoc is straightforward; a mismatch invites RFEs.
Ask about the institution's immigration support office
Large research universities maintain dedicated international scholar services offices that handle petitions in-house. Smaller institutions may outsource to outside counsel. Knowing this upfront tells you how smoothly the sponsorship process will run.
Factor grant funding into your sponsorship timeline
Postdoc sponsorship is almost always tied to a PI's grant. If the grant expires mid-appointment, your visa status is at risk. Confirm funding duration before signing and ask whether bridge funding exists between grant cycles.
O-1A is a realistic path if you have publications and awards
Postdocs with peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or fellowships may qualify for O-1A status. It's employer-independent and doesn't require a lottery. Talk to your PI about whether your research record supports the petition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do postdoctoral researcher positions commonly come with visa sponsorship?
Yes, postdoc positions at U.S. universities and research institutions are among the most frequently sponsored roles in the country. Most research universities expect to sponsor international candidates and have dedicated staff to manage the process. The most common visa types are H-1B visa (cap-exempt through universities), J-1 visa Exchange Visitor, and O-1A for candidates with strong research records. Browse current sponsored postdoc openings on Migrate Mate.
What is the difference between a J-1 and H-1B visa for postdocs?
The J-1 is faster and less expensive for the sponsoring institution, which is why many universities default to it. However, some J-1 holders are subject to a two-year home residency requirement, which must be fulfilled or waived before switching to H-1B status or applying for a green card. The H-1B, while more complex to file, doesn't carry that restriction and provides a cleaner path to permanent residence.
Does my Ph.D. need to be in the exact field of the postdoc?
Not exact, but closely related. USCIS requires that the position qualifies as a specialty occupation and that your degree supports the specific role. A biochemistry Ph.D. supporting a structural biology postdoc is typically unproblematic. A mismatch between your degree field and the research area is one of the most common reasons postdoc H-1B petitions receive Requests for Evidence. Your PI and the institution's immigration office will assess this before filing.
Can I get a green card as a postdoctoral researcher?
Yes, and the postdoc years are often strategically valuable for building a green card case. The EB-1A (extraordinary ability) and EB-2 NIW (national interest waiver) are the most common pathways. Both self-petition routes benefit directly from the publications, citations, peer review work, and awards that postdocs accumulate. Some institutions also sponsor EB-1B (outstanding researcher) petitions, though that requires employer support.
Are postdoc H-1B petitions subject to the annual lottery?
Not when filed through a qualifying cap-exempt employer. Universities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research institutions are exempt from the 85,000-cap H-1B lottery. This means petitions can be filed at any time of year and take effect as soon as they're approved. It's one of the clearest structural advantages of pursuing a postdoc at an academic or nonprofit research institution over an industry role.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Postdoctoral Researcher jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.