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Communication Postdoc Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Communication Postdoc information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$59.2K

$85K

How much do communication postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for communication postdoc in Chicago, IL is $59,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication postdoc?

To thrive as a Communication Postdoc, you typically need a PhD in communication or a related field, strong research skills, and a solid publication record. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research tools, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or NVivo), and academic publishing platforms is often expected. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help distinguish top candidates. These competencies are crucial for advancing research, publishing impactful work, and contributing effectively to academic teams and projects.

What is a communication postdoc?

A Communication Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies and is conducting advanced research in the field of communication, often at a university or research institute. Their work may focus on areas such as media studies, interpersonal communication, digital communication, or organizational communication. Postdoctoral positions are typically temporary, lasting one to three years, and are designed to help scholars deepen their expertise, publish research, and gain experience before pursuing permanent academic or industry positions.

What is the difference between Communication Postdoc vs Communication Specialist?

AspectCommunication PostdocCommunication Specialist
Required CredentialsPhD in Communication or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Communication or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsCorporate, nonprofit, or media organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research centersBusinesses, government agencies, media outlets
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Communication Postdoc and a Communication Specialist lies in their work environment and credentials. A Communication Postdoc typically holds a PhD and works in academic or research settings, focusing on advancing communication theories and research. In contrast, a Communication Specialist usually has a bachelor's or master's degree and works in corporate or media environments, applying communication strategies to support organizational goals.

What are some common challenges communication postdocs face when transitioning from doctoral studies to postdoctoral research roles?

Communication Postdocs often encounter challenges such as adapting to increased research independence, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and balancing publishing expectations with teaching or mentoring responsibilities. Additionally, they may need to quickly integrate into new research teams and navigate institutional cultures different from their graduate experiences. Developing effective collaboration and time management skills is crucial for success and for building a strong professional network in this stage of their career.
What are popular job titles related to Communication Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL? For Communication Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Postdoctoral Researcher - Critical Elements at Mineral-Water Interfaces

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL • On-site

$72K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Interfacial Processes Group in the Chemical Sciences and Engineering (CSE) Division at Argonne National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project. This research focuses on understanding how critical elements are distributed at mineral-water interfaces, with the goal of revealing the fundamental chemical and structural behavior of these strategically important elements in geological materials.
We are looking for a creative and driven experimental scientist with experience in synchrotron scattering and imaging, ideally with the ability to carry out advanced measurements at the Advanced Photon Source. Experience with in-situ characterization and experimental apparatus development is especially valued. In this role, you will also contribute to material preparation and characterization using laboratory-based analytical tools, including electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy.
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of interfacial science, geochemistry, and advanced characterization in a highly collaborative research environment. The successful candidate will be expected to analyze and interpret experimental data and share research findings through scientific conferences and peer-reviewed publications.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct research on the distribution and behavior of critical elements at mineral-water interfaces
  • Perform extensive synchrotron scattering and imaging experiments at the Advanced Photon Source
  • Develop and apply in situ characterization approaches and, where appropriate, experimental apparatus
  • Prepare and characterize materials using laboratory-based analytical techniques
  • Analyze and interpret complex, multimodal experimental datasets
  • Communicate research results through presentations, reports, and peer-reviewed journal articles
  • Collaborate effectively with researchers across disciplines and contribute to multiple related projects as needed

Position Requirements
  • Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (within the last 0-5 years) in field of chemistry, geochemistry, chemical engineering, physics, materials science, or a closely related field
  • Strong experience with synchrotron techniques and analysis of multimodal datasets
  • Experience in material synthesis and characterization
  • Demonstrated knowledge of general analytical methods and experimental practices
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • A creative, proactive, and thoughtful approach to scientific problem solving
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
  • Flexibility to contribute across multiple projects and research applications
  • Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Preferred Background
Experience in one or more of the following areas will help candidates succeed in this role:
  • Critical elements and materials
  • Electrical double layer theory and applications
  • Solid-liquid phase transitions and energetics
  • Mineral processing and separations
  • In situ characterization and apparatus development

Work Location
This position requires an on-site presence five days per week at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois.
Job Family
Postdoctoral
Job Profile
Postdoctoral Appointee
Worker Type
Long-Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type
Full time
The expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!
As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.
All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.