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Exercise Science Research Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Master's degree in exercise science or a similar degree with experience teaching exercise ... SVSU emphasizes undergraduate teaching and learning, and community-based research. SVSU earned the ...

Stay abreast of current food, nutrition, and health issues and research related to sports nutrition ... exercise science, or health-related field Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary ...

Dietitian

Campus, IL · On-site

Stay abreast of current food, nutrition, and health issues and research related to sports nutrition ... exercise science, or health-related field Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary ...

Stay abreast of current food, nutrition, and health issues and research related to sports nutrition ... exercise science, or health-related field Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary ...

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Exercise Science Research information

See Illinois salary details

$10.8K

$73.4K

$83.6K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science research in Illinois is $73,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,200.00 and $81,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as exercise physiologists, research coordinators, or sports scientists, often in clinical, academic, or sports settings. They analyze human movement, develop fitness programs, and conduct research using tools like VO2 max testing and biomechanical analysis, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. These positions typically involve working with clients or research participants to improve health, performance, or rehabilitation outcomes.

How much do exercise science researchers make?

Exercise science researchers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis or laboratory techniques may offer higher salaries, especially in academic or clinical settings.

What careers can I get with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree can lead to careers such as exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness instructor, physical therapy assistant, or sports coach. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may require certifications like ACSM or NASM. Job settings include gyms, sports teams, healthcare facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Exercise Science Research, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Exercise Science Research often encounter challenges such as recruiting and retaining study participants, ensuring data reliability, and managing complex interdisciplinary projects. Building strong relationships with local communities and athletic organizations can improve participant engagement. Additionally, collaborating closely with colleagues from nutrition, physiology, and medical backgrounds helps ensure comprehensive research design and analysis. Staying current with advancements in technology and research methodology also supports high-quality, impactful studies.

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

AspectExercise Science ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science or related field; research experience often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology; certification (e.g., ACSM) often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, universities, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, sports facilities
Employer & IndustryAcademic institutions, research organizations, government agenciesHealthcare providers, fitness industry, sports teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in exercise scienceCareer as a practicing exercise physiologist

Exercise Science Research focuses on conducting studies to advance knowledge in exercise and human performance, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply exercise principles directly to improve health and fitness in clinical or fitness environments. Both roles require related educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, you need a solid background in physiology, biomechanics, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree such as a master's or PhD in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and research methodologies is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for designing studies and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research practices, accurate data interpretation, and impactful contributions to the advancement of exercise science.

What is exercise science research?

Exercise science research involves the systematic study of how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact human health, performance, and disease prevention. Researchers in this field investigate a range of topics including biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and motor control. The goal is to understand how exercise affects the body and mind so that effective programs and recommendations can be developed for individuals and populations. Exercise science research is crucial for advancing knowledge in sports performance, rehabilitation, and overall health promotion.

How to become an exercise science researcher?

To become an exercise science researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Developing skills in research methods, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, along with experience in scientific studies, is essential for success in this field.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Exercise Science Research jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Exercise Science Research job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,438 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Visiting Faculty, Exercise Science

Lindenwood

Campus, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 hours ago


Job description

Welcome to Career Opportunities at Lindenwood University.PLEASE READ: For all applications, please include your resume and cover letter. You may skip the "Quick Apply" page by simply clicking "Next" at the bottom of the page. When you arrive at the "Experience" page, you may upload all desired documents using the upload box labeled "Resume/CV." This is the appropriate box to upload all documents.

Benefits of Being a Lindenwood Employee:

  • Upon hire, employer-paid tuition benefits for bachelor's (employee, spouse, and dependent) and master's degree programs (employee and spouse only).
  • Tuition discounts for doctoral programs (employee only).
  • Comprehensive benefits plan: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, and retirement options.
  • Paid holidays: MLK Jr. day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving break (Wednesday - Friday), and winter break (Dec. 23 - Jan. 1).
  • Free lunch Fridays: LU employees are eligible for a free meal on Fridays at the Evans Commons Dining Hall or Spellman Dining Hall; Chick-fil-A and Qdoba included.
  • Professional development opportunities through the Lindenwood Learning Academy.

Job Title: Visiting Faculty, Exercise Science

Department: Kinesiology

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Dean or Academic Administrator

Positions Supervised: Student Employee(s) as Applicable

Application must be completed in one sitting. At the time of completing the application, you will need the following documents to upload.

Supplemental Materials

  • Cover Letter specifying your area of expertise and interest
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Teaching Philosophy
  • Three (3) recent letters of recommendation sent directly to LUHR@lindenwood.edu
  • Unofficial transcript(s) of all degrees completed

*** The system limits 5 documents to upload. You will need to save multiple documents into one PDF or have additional documents sent to luhr@lindenwood.edu***

Job Summary

Faculty and instructors are responsible for curriculum, teaching, service, scholarship, and related administrative activities that support the mission, vision, and values of the university.

The College of Science, Technology, and Health at Lindenwood University invites applications for a Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science.


Qualified applicants will possess a PhD in exercise science or a related field. Applicants with experience in sports science, sports data analytics, or biomechanics are preferred.The successful candidate will be expected to teach 4 courses (12 credit hours) each semester , and specific course assignments will be determined by area of expertise and prior teaching experience. Primary teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate courses, with the potential to teach one graduate course each semester. All Lindenwood faculty members are expected to advise and mentor students, continue to develop their expertise through research and scholarship, and participate in faculty governance and campus life.

The Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science is a full-time faculty position that will begin August 13, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Essential Job Functions and Performance Indicators

The intent of this job description is to provide a representation of the types of duties and level of responsibility that will be required of positions given this title. This job description shall not be construed as a declaration of the total of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Employees should refer to the Employee Guidebook and the respective performance evaluation for additional job-related expectations.

Standard 1 - Teaching and Learning

Lindenwood faculty are committed to designing courses and creating classroom cultures characterized by rigor, inclusiveness, support, and engagement for research-based teaching that will serve faculty from all disciplines and students from all groups. Guidelines and expectations developed by the colleges, departments, or programs to support needs and/or requirements specific to each will be determined by the academic administrators and communicated to the faculty.

Standard 2 - Academic Service and Contributions

Lindenwood faculty actively support and provide service to the mission, vision, values, and initiatives of the university and colleges, and exemplify the Q2 culture of service excellence. Guidelines and expectations developed by the colleges, departments, or programs to support needs and/or requirements specific to each will be determined by the academic administrators and communicated to the faculty.

Standard 3 - Continuous Learning and Scholarship

Lindenwood faculty are committed to remaining current in their discipline and instructional practice through continuous learning and contributions to their field by participating in scholarly work.

Required Qualifications

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered. Additional requirements may be designated by position.

View Required Qualifications by Rank

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

May be representative, but not all inclusive, of the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform this job competently.

Communication Skills: Ability to verbalize understanding of complex problems or situations, ask relevant questions for clarifications and explain concepts clearly to others; well-developed written communication skills; ability to communicate diplomatically, clearly, and effectively with students and co-workers verbally, in-person, and by telephone using the English language; ability to present materials effectively to individual students or groups; ability to manage interpersonal conflict situations requiring tact, diplomacy, and discretion; and ability to support a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion through effective interactions with students, employees, alumni, and other stakeholders.

Decision-Making & Analytical Skills: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; ability to organize and express ideas, directions, and data in a logical sequence to describe a process or explain procedures, such as how to perform a task; and ability to deal with abstract and concrete variables.

Technological & Related Skills: Ability to use current technology to enhance effectiveness including but not limited to computers, computer-assisted instruction programs, and audio-visual equipment; willing to learn and apply any other new technology necessary to enhance learning; working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Canvas (LMS), CAMS (SIS), and Workday (EIS); and ability to use phones, fax machines, printers, scanners and copiers.

Work Environment

Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of this job's functions.

  • Unless a faculty position is designated as fully remote, all full-time faculty positions are designated as non-standard flex. On-campus presence is required and is deemed necessary to perform the position expectations. Flexibility for remote work for non-routine, situational, and unusual circumstances, is provided at the administrator's discretion.
  • General office and/or classroom setting for on-campus faculty and instructors
  • Variable work environments as determined by online instructors; must have 24/7 access to a computer that meets minimum technical specifications and has high-speed Internet access, distraction free from noise and movement
  • See Attendance section below for work environment attendance expectations

Physical Abilities

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform this job's essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Stamina to teach classes as required
  • Ability to stand or sit for extended time periods
  • Ability to meet on-campus requirement for classes and duties that are designated as such

Attendance

View Attendance by Rank

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lindenwood University is an Equal Opportunity employer. The University complies with appropriate federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment opportunities and access to educational programs without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status to all qualified applicants and employees. Lindenwood University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and dedicated to providing a positive discrimination-free educational work environment.