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Data Annotation Research Jobs in Burbank, IL (NOW HIRING)

Architect how we transform large-scale data systems (annotation, content detection, attribution ... Research how traditional media companies are approaching AI partnerships to position TraceID ...

Architect how we transform large-scale data systems (annotation, content detection, attribution ... Research how traditional media companies are approaching AI partnerships to position TraceID ...

Data Annotation Research information

What qualifications do I need for data annotation?

Data annotation research roles typically require basic computer skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with annotation tools or platforms. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient, though some positions may prefer experience with data labeling, machine learning concepts, or specific software. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced in Data Annotation Research roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Data Annotation Research often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in labeling, dealing with ambiguous data, and managing large datasets efficiently. These issues can be addressed by following detailed annotation guidelines, participating in regular calibration sessions with the team, and utilizing annotation tools that support quality control checks. Collaboration with data scientists and project managers is essential to clarify ambiguities and ensure that annotated data meets the project's requirements. Staying proactive in communication and continuous learning helps to minimize errors and improve overall data quality.

Does data annotation actually pay?

Data annotation research jobs typically pay hourly or per task rates, with wages ranging from minimum wage to higher rates depending on experience and complexity of the work. Many positions are freelance or remote, requiring basic skills in data labeling tools and attention to detail. Payment is generally reliable, but rates vary by employer and project.

How hard is it to get hired by data annotation?

Getting hired for a data annotation research role typically requires basic computer skills, attention to detail, and sometimes familiarity with annotation tools or platforms. Many positions are entry-level and do not require advanced education, making the hiring process relatively accessible for those with the right skills and reliability.

What is the difference between Data Annotation Research vs Data Labeling Specialist?

AspectData Annotation ResearchData Labeling Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a background in data science, research methods, or related fieldsOften requires basic technical skills and experience with labeling tools
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, or remote research teamsData centers, tech companies, or remote labeling teams
Industry UsageUsed in AI/ML research, developing annotation methodologiesUsed in preparing datasets for machine learning models
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research-focused roles in data annotationLooking for practical data labeling jobs

Data Annotation Research involves exploring new annotation techniques and improving data quality for AI models, often requiring research skills. In contrast, Data Labeling Specialists focus on applying existing labeling tools to annotate datasets efficiently. Both roles are essential in AI development but differ in scope and expertise.

Is data annotation real or fake?

Data annotation is a real and essential process in machine learning and AI development, involving labeling data such as images, text, or audio to train algorithms. Data annotation jobs require attention to detail and often use tools like labeling platforms or software, making them a legitimate employment opportunity in the tech industry.

What is data annotation research?

Data annotation research involves studying and developing methods for labeling data, such as images, text, or audio, to be used in training machine learning models. Researchers in this field focus on improving annotation accuracy, efficiency, and scalability, as well as addressing challenges like bias and consistency. This work is critical because high-quality annotated data is essential for building effective AI systems. Data annotation research often includes exploring new tools, techniques, and guidelines for human annotators or automated labeling systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Annotation Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Annotation Researcher, you need strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and familiarity with data labeling concepts, often supported by a degree in computer science, linguistics, or a related field. Experience with annotation platforms, data management tools, and sometimes knowledge of programming languages like Python are typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work independently set standout contributors apart. These skills ensure high-quality, accurate data labeling, which is crucial for developing reliable AI and machine learning models.
What cities near Burbank, IL are hiring for Data Annotation Research jobs? Cities near Burbank, IL with the most Data Annotation Research job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Annotation Research job openings in Burbank, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 33% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Contract, 36% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 46% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution.
Postdoctoral Scholar (Goldstein Lab)

Postdoctoral Scholar (Goldstein Lab)

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Northwestern University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

204th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department: MED-Pathology
Salary/Grade: RES/
The minimum pay for this position is $61,000 in alignment with departmental equity and market data
Who we are: A small lab dedicated to improving maternal-child outcomes through understanding of the placenta.
(wait, what's a placenta?) An organ that develops in pregnancy that supports fetal survival and growth. Most problems in pregnancy are caused by the placenta or leave a signature that we can study.
What we do: Our major techniques are ML analysis of whole slide placental histology images and analysis of spatial multiplex data (transcriptomics, IF). We also use medical informatics data for outcomes. Goldstein lab space is dry, but we work with collaborators and core labs to acquire data.
  • Chou et al., Quantitative Modeling to Characterize Maternal Inflammatory Response of Histologic Chorioamnionitis in Placental Membranes. Am J Reprod Immunol. 2024 Oct;92(4):e13944. doi: 10.1111/aji.13944.
  • Ayad et al., Deep learning for fetal inflammatory response diagnosis in the umbilical cord. Placenta. 2025 Jun 26;167:1-10. doi: 10.1016/j.placenta.2025.04.013
The project: Stillbirth is loss of pregnancy after 20 (of 40) weeks gestation. It occurs in ~1% of pregnancies, and the cause is unknown in around half of cases. The goal of the project is to build multimodal models that intake clinical data and whole slide images and yield a classification of the cause of stillbirth. The position is on an NIH-funded R01 in year 2 of 5.
This fellow will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of machine learning, image analysis, and software engineering experts and will have access to data and resources to develop, validate, and translate their work. Candidates must have strong computational skills and a PhD with research experience in ML or computationally intensive biology. Preference will be given to recent graduates of US institutions or who are currently employed in the US and who are immediately eligible to work.
The Division of Computational Pathology at Northwestern was formed to improve pathology practice and research through the application of AI techniques. We have created a research environment where pathologists and computational scientists from different backgrounds collaborate to develop AI tools and translate them into clinical practice. We maintain an institutional repository containing >100,000 images linked to diagnostic and clinical data, a dedicated computing cluster, and a platform for image viewing, annotation, and data management. Our hospital system is implementing digital pathology for clinical operations and has experience with operationalizing AI tools.
This position is supervised by Dr. Jeffery A. Goldstein and the primary appointment will be in the department of pathology on the Downtown Chicago Streeterville campus. Northwestern has a vibrant AI research community, with the Institute of Augmented Intelligence in Medicine and AI@NU. The fellow will have opportunities to collaborate with Lee Cooper, head of the division of computational pathology, as well as other faculty in the Department of Pathology, Prentice Women's Hospital, the Lurie Cancer Center, and the McCormick School of Engineering.
Principle Responsibilities:
  • Develop methods for analyzing pathology images
  • Management of research datasets
  • Interact with collaborators, other postdocs, and graduate students to achieve project goals
  • Manuscript development
  • Attendance at conferences and symposia where results will be presented in poster or talk formats
Requirements:
  • PhD in computer science, computational biology, bioinformatics or similar.
  • Advanced level of Python programming
  • Experience working with Linux-based systems
Preferred
  • Experience with software optimization and large-scale datasets
  • Experience with Git version control
  • Experience in computer vision and deep learning
  • Experience with medical images
#LI-RM1
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .

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