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Exercise Science Postdoc Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Science Postdoc information

What is an exercise science postdoc?

Exercise Science Postdocs are individuals who have completed a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in exercise science or a related field and are engaged in advanced research training, usually at a university or research institution. Their work often focuses on studying the physiological, biomechanical, and behavioral aspects of physical activity, exercise, and health. Postdoctoral positions are designed to help early-career scientists build research skills, publish scholarly work, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or clinical settings. These positions typically last from one to three years and may involve teaching, mentoring, and grant writing in addition to research.

What types of research collaboration opportunities are typically available for exercise science postdocs?

Exercise Science Postdocs often have the chance to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physiologists, clinicians, nutritionists, and biomechanists. These collaborations may involve joint research projects, grant writing, or co-authoring publications, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. Engaging with other departments or external institutions can also broaden your research scope and help you develop new technical skills. Such collaboration is not only encouraged but is often essential for career advancement in academia and industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Postdoc, you need a Ph.D. in exercise science or a related field, strong research skills, and a solid understanding of human physiology and movement. Experience with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and peer-reviewed publishing is typically required. Critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for advancing research, publishing impactful studies, and contributing meaningfully to academic and scientific communities.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Postdoc vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science PostdocExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), research experienceBachelor's or Master's degree, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilities
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, academiaHealthcare, sports, wellness industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Exercise Science Postdoc primarily focuses on research and academic pursuits, often working in universities or research institutions. In contrast, an Exercise Physiologist applies practical skills in clinical or fitness settings to improve patient or client health. While both roles involve exercise and health, the Postdoc emphasizes research credentials, whereas the Exercise Physiologist centers on certification and direct client care.

What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Postdoc jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Exercise Science Postdoc jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Exercise Science Postdoc job openings:

Assistant Professor, Sport and Performance Analytics

Towson University

Campus, IL • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

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Towson University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

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Job description

Assistant Professor, Sport and Performance Analytics

Department of Kinesiology

College of Health Professions

CHP-4015

Position:

The College of Health Professions invites applications for a tenure-track, 9-month Assistant Professor position in the Department of Kinesiology. Preferred start date is August, 2027.

Qualifications:

Research doctoral degree in Exercise Science or related field. ABD applicants considered, but appointment will be at the Instructor rank and all degree requirements must be completed by February 1, 2028. Candidates must present evidence of a scholarship agenda focused in an area of specialty in Exercise Science that complements the expertise of current faculty, the course offerings, and available resources. Human subjects research with potential for external funding is highly valued. Candidates must have the training and expertise to teach multiple Exercise Science courses in the following areas: sports and performance analytics, data analytics, athlete monitoring, quantitative research methods, strength and conditioning, and/or athletic training. Candidates with Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and/or Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) certifications are highly valued and encouraged to apply. Candidates with expertise to teach across the kinesiology disciplinary boundaries are highly valued and encouraged to apply. Postdoctoral candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

Primary responsibilities include:

1) Teaching - research-active instructors teach 6 units (typically, 3 courses per semester) over a 9- month academic year in a highly diverse, student-centered program; provide high-quality instruction in a variety of kinesiology courses; advise and mentor students as they matriculate through the program and prepare to enter the profession;

2) Scholarship - development/continuation of a focused area of scholarship that includes refereed publications, professional presentations, external funding, and involvement in scholarly projects with faculty and students;

3) Service - active service participation at the department, college, university, profession and community levels.

Department Information:

The Department of Kinesiology, located within the College of Health Professions, has over 30 full-time faculty and more than 1,000 students across the Health and Physical Education, Sport Management, Fitness and Wellness Leadership, and Exercise Science undergraduate programs. The Department also offers a Master's degree in Athletic Training. All programs value success in working with diverse populations and students. The Department of Kinesiology maintains a strong, positive working relationship with the University's Division of Athletics and Campus Recreation.

Towson University:

Towson University (TU) is one of the nation's top 100 public universities. Located north of Baltimore, TU currently enrolls over 19,000 students and is the second-largest university in the prestigious University System of Maryland. Towson University fosters a climate that is grounded in respect to cultivate the intellectual and personal growth of the entire university community.

Application Process: 

Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Interested applicants should submit a letter of application that addresses the posting details and qualifications. Applications must also include: (1) a curriculum vitae, (2) a teaching statement, (3) a research statement that addresses current areas of expertise and future research agenda, and (4) contact information (name, address, email, phone number) for at least three professional references. All application materials should be submitted electronically via the application link, preferably in a single PDF file.

Click here to apply. Please note that the search number for which you are applying is CHP-4015.

Please be sure to visit the Applicant Data Form to complete a voluntary on-line form. All data collected are for internal, state, and/or federal reporting and will not be used for other purposes.

Salary and Benefits:

Targeted salary range: $80,000-$85,000 commensurate with experience.

Benefits: TU offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent health, life and retirement plans; and tuition remission. To learn more about our benefits, click here for regular faculty/regular lecturer or here for contingent lecturer. TU also offers a variety of great perks and discounts, which can be found here.

Background Check:

A Criminal Background Investigation is required for the hired candidate and the results may impact employment.

COVID-19 Statement:

The safety of our students, faculty, staff, and neighbors has been our top priority and the focus of every one of our decisions since the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the University System of Maryland (USM) has strongly encouraged full COVID vaccination and up-to-date booster shots (when eligible) for all faculty, staff, and students at all schools in the USM as both a reasonable and necessary means of protecting our health and safety.


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