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Data Science Postdoc Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Data Science Postdoc information

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How much do data science postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for data science postdoc in Chicago, IL is $58.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.03 and $69.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical daily or weekly responsibilities for a data science postdoc?

Data Science Postdocs often spend their days designing and conducting advanced data analyses, developing and testing predictive models, and communicating results through reports or academic publications. They frequently collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and industry partners on interdisciplinary projects, contributing their quantitative expertise. Additionally, Data Science Postdocs may mentor junior researchers, participate in lab meetings, present findings in seminars, and contribute to grant proposals. This dynamic environment provides opportunities to deepen research skills, publish impactful work, and prepare for future career advancement in academia or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a data science postdoc position?

To thrive as a Data Science Postdoc, you need advanced analytical skills, expertise in statistical modeling, a doctoral degree in a quantitative field, and proven experience with data-driven research. Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, along with experience using machine learning libraries, data visualization tools, and version control systems, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaborative teamwork, and effective communication skills help set outstanding candidates apart. These attributes are crucial for advancing knowledge, publishing impactful research, and working effectively within interdisciplinary research teams.

What is a data science postdoc?

A Data Science Postdoc is a temporary research position, typically at a university or research institution, for individuals who have recently completed a PhD. The role focuses on applying advanced data science techniques, such as machine learning, statistical modeling, and big data analysis, to solve complex research problems. Postdocs often work on interdisciplinary projects, collaborate with faculty, publish academic papers, and may also contribute to teaching. The goal is to build expertise, advance knowledge in a specific domain, and prepare for roles in academia, industry, or government.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Science Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Data Science Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Data Science Postdoc job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,733 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Appointee - Building Agentic AI Platform for X-ray Science

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL

$72K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Researcher to join the X-ray Science Division (XSD) at Argonne National Laboratory. The successful candidate will develop an AI-enabled platform for X-ray absorption spectroscopy by integrating LLMs, scientific machine learning, physics-aware workflows, and strong computational chemistry/electronic-structure expertise. The researcher will work with a multidisciplinary team to advance agentic AI tools for simulation, interpretation, data analysis, and scientific discovery. The appointment is expected to last two years and the contract is extended yearly.

Position Requirements

  • A recent PhD (within 5 years) in computational chemistry, chemistry, materials science, physics, computational science, computer science, engineering, or a related field.

  • Strong computational chemistry background in atomistic simulations, electronic-structure theory, DFT, structure-property relationships, and interpretation of simulation results.

  • Hands-on experience with DFT or electronic-structure codes such as VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, CP2K, ABINIT, GPAW, Gaussian, ORCA, Q-Chem, or related packages.

  • Strong materials science or chemistry domain knowledge, such as bonding, defects, catalysis, batteries, solid-state chemistry, molecular systems, or related materials classes.

  • Strong Python skills and familiarity with LLM APIs, agent frameworks , PyTorch, and the Python scientific stack (e.g., numpy, pandas, scikit-learn). Passion for front-end development and web-based applications, back-end services and API design (e.g., FastAPI, Flask), and deploying applications in local or cloud environments.

  • Experience with complex scientific datasets and reproducible analysis or simulation workflows.

  • Effective written and oral communications skills.

  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

  • Commitment to Argonne's Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

  • Experience with X-ray absorption spectroscopy theory, modelling, and interpretation, including XANES/EXAFS.

  • Hands-on experience with XAS simulation packages such as FEFF, OCEAN, FDMNES, XSpectra, or exciting.

  • Experience comparing simulated and experimental XAS/XAFS spectra.

  • Experience with high-throughput spectroscopy workflows, HPC, synchrotron datasets, or physics-informed AI.

**Please include a cover letterthat briefly describes relevant simulation, chemistry, AI/ML, and XAS experience; include code links if available.**

Job Family

Postdoctoral

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full timeThe 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.