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Basic Research Scientist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83 - $138/hr

Demonstrates achievements in basic, clinical or biomedical engineering research that have brought ... The Research Scientist II will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab ...

Demonstrates achievements in basic, clinical or biomedical engineering research that have brought ... The Research Scientist II will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab ...

Research Scientists (PhD)

Campus, IL · On-site

$95 - $150/hr

The Research Scientist provides end‑to‑end leadership for research studies, including project ... Supporting purchasing, budgeting, and basic accounting functions associated with laboratory ...

Unlike traditional data science roles, this position spans the full AI research and development ... Basic Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as statistics, computer ...

Bank is seeking a Principal AI Research Scientist to join the Artificial Intelligence Center of ... Basic Qualifications * Bachelor's degree, or equivalent work experience * Eight or more years of ...

... Scientist I - Decatur, IL The ADM R&D Lipid Science & Applications Group (LS&A) & Oil Processing ... This role will also require knowledge in lipids to support basic research, product development ...

Bank is seeking a Principal AI Research Scientist to join the Artificial Intelligence Center of ... Basic term and optional term life insurance * Short-term and long-term disability * Pregnancy ...

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Showing results 1-20

Basic Research Scientist information

See Illinois salary details

$48.9K

$126.1K

$168.6K

How much do basic research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for basic research scientist in Illinois is $126,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Basic Research Scientist vs Applied Research Scientist?

AspectBasic Research ScientistApplied Research Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in relevant sciencesBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in relevant sciences
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesLaboratories, industry R&D departments, corporate settings
Industry UsageAcademic, government, research-focused organizationsCommercial, product development, industry-focused
Research FocusFundamental understanding, theory, and principlesPractical application, product development, solutions

Basic Research Scientists primarily focus on fundamental scientific questions and advancing knowledge without immediate commercial goals. In contrast, Applied Research Scientists work on translating scientific discoveries into practical applications and products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their end goals and work environments differ significantly.

What do I need to be a basic research scientist?

To become a basic research scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics is required, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research positions. Strong analytical skills, proficiency with laboratory equipment and data analysis tools, and experience in experimental design are also important. Additionally, research scientists often need to publish findings and stay current with scientific literature.

What do basic research scientists do on a daily basis?

Basic research scientists conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories to advance scientific knowledge in their field. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, using specialized tools and methods, and may collaborate with other scientists or publish findings regularly.

What is a basic research scientist?

A basic research scientist conducts fundamental scientific studies to increase understanding of natural phenomena, often working in laboratories or academic settings. They design experiments, analyze data, and publish findings, typically requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of scientific methods and tools.

Research Scientist II

Chicago, IL • On-site


Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you'll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You'll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none - one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You'll play a role in something that's never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes - as we Advance Human Ability, together.
Job Description Summary
Consistent with the rank of Assistant Professor, the Research Scientist II assists with executing pre-clinical scientific research strategies in research. Investigates the feasibility of applying a variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions, products and problems. Demonstrates achievements in basic, clinical or biomedical engineering research that have brought distinction to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Contributes to the overall direction of research at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
The Research Scientist II will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact or in the interest of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
The Research Scientist II will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.
Job Description
The Research Scientist II will:
  • Develops scientific goals and objectives for area of responsibility to ensure continued scientific growth and development of research laboratory/unit/center. Supports organization.
  • To secure external research funding, develops independent research proposals and grant applications at national level (e.g., foundation, VA, NSF, NIH, NIDILRR, or DOD) with assistance from colleagues. National level grants are typically at the smaller level such as NIH R03, NIH R21, or NIDILRR field-initiated project.
  • Ensures that scientific and budgetary milestones of specific projects are met.
  • Publishes original research in scientific journals that advance the clinical discipline or research field, typically as first author.
  • Presents at national and international meetings.
  • Regularly participates in independent scientific review of journal articles and grants.
  • Mentors graduate students in own laboratory along with other mentors. Has Ph.D. students.
  • Demonstrates leadership activity in professional organizations.
  • Influences laboratory and relevant centers. Provides technical advice for initiatives.
  • Contributes to institutional leadership by serving on relevant ad hoc committees.
  • Develops productive collaborations with other established investigators outside laboratory at home institution.
  • Involved in technology transfer and creation of intellectual property. Files patents.
  • Participates in outpatient clinics and huddles and has close connection with relevant clinicians.
  • Performs all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

Reporting Relationships
Reports directly to the assigned Principal Investigator
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required
  • Knowledge of measurement and statistics principles acquired through a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline from an accredited school and successful completion of a postdoctoral fellowship.
  • Minimum 2 years of related postdoctoral experience with a high level of proficiency and knowledge in measurement and statistics.
  • Requires expert knowledge of scientific principles and concepts with a high level of analytical ability to design and conduct research projects.
  • Demonstrated success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought.
  • Uses professional concepts and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab's policies and procedures to solve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways. Works on problems of diverse scope in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors.
  • Requires a high level of proficiency in writing to prepare grant proposals, research reports and other publications, and explain complex results to a lay audience.
  • Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
  • Interpersonal skills needed in order to communicate effectively with other staff members, fellow researchers, and the like.
  • Normally receives no instructions on routine work, general instructions on new assignments.

Working Conditions
Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Pay and Benefits*:
Pay Range:
$82,700.00 - $137,500.00
Benefits:
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations: https://www.sralab.org/benefits
*Benefits and benefits' eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will be determined by equity and qualifications of the role.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristics protected by law.
EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law - Know Your Rights | View our Full Policy
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Affirmative Action Employer as required by law.


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