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Exercise Science Research Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sidley

Product Management Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$240K - $251K/yr

Lead rigorous product discovery and validation, applying user research, prioritization frameworks ... Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering Computer Science or a related field. * A minimum of 10 ...

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All JobsExercise Science Research JobsExercise Science Research Jobs in Chicago, IL

Exercise Science Research information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$28.8K

$93.1K

$158.6K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science research in Chicago, IL is $93,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science researcher?

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 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.

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 else can I do with an exercise science research degree?

An exercise science research degree prepares individuals for careers in academia, sports performance, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Graduates can work as exercise physiologists, research scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, or health educators, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree also provides a foundation for advanced study or roles involving data analysis, program development, and clinical assessment.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science qualifies individuals for research positions in academia, government agencies, or private industry, focusing on human performance, rehabilitation, or health promotion. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, exercise physiologists, or consultants, utilizing skills in data analysis, experimental design, and advanced knowledge of physiology and biomechanics.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Exercise Science Research jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Research jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Exercise Science Research jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Exercise Science Research job openings:

Exercise Science Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,145 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Director, Infection Prevention & Control

University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System

Chicago, IL • On-site

$148K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Director, Infection Prevention & Control
SEARCH EXTENDED UNTIL SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
Hiring Department: Infection Control
Location: Chicago, IL USA
Requisition ID: 1039613
Posting Close Date: March 17, 2026
Salary: The salary range ofemployees currently holding equivalent position is $148,547 - $183,791.
About the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health)
The University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health) provides comprehensive care, education, and research to the people of Illinois and beyond. A part of the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), UI Health comprises a clinical enterprise that includes a Joint Commission-accredited tertiary care hospital and outpatient clinics, and the Mile Square Health Center network of federally qualified health centers. It also includes the seven UIC health science colleges: the College of Applied Health Sciences; the College of Dentistry; the School of Public Health; the Jane Addams College of Social Work; and the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing, including regional campuses in Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, and Urbana. UI Health is dedicated to the pursuit of health equity. Learn more: https://hospital.uillinois.edu/about-ui-health
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
Description:
About UI Health
The University of Illinois Hospital & Health SciencesSystem (UI Health) provides comprehensive care, education, and research to thepeople of Illinois and beyond. A part of the University of Illinois at Chicago(UIC), UI Health comprises a clinical enterprise that includes a 495-bedtertiary care hospital, 30+ outpatient clinics, and 13 Mile Square HealthCenter facilities, which are Federally Qualified Health Centers. It alsoincludes the seven UIC health science colleges: the College of Applied HealthSciences; the College of Dentistry; the School of Public Health; the JaneAddams College of Social Work; and the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, andNursing, including regional campuses in Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford,Springfield, and Urbana. UI Health is dedicated to the pursuit of healthequity.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental,Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuitionwaivers for employees and dependents.
Under general supervision of the Chief Nursing Officer this position provides expertise to all levels of leadership and staff of UI Hospital & Health Sciences System in the areas of prevention, control, and documentation of healthcare associated infections and communicable diseases. Manages Infection Prevention & Control team, partners with the Medical Director for Infection Control, and directs all infection related activities and priorities. Maintains knowledge of relevant state and federal
regulations, national standards, and guidelines to ensure regulatory compliance. Develops strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Contributes leadership and assistance to enterprise-wide initiatives as a member of the Chief Nursing Officers leadership team.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Lead the development and implementation of anorganization-wide infection prevention and control plan that is evaluated andrefined annually.
  • Exercise direct authority for development and administrationof programs and special projects for UI Health's
    Infection Prevention and Control program in partnership withthe Medical Director for Infection Control and in accordance with establishedstandards of practice.
  • Direct the day-to-day operations of the unit. Set andimplement operational policies and procedures for handling daily administrativematters, such as finances, facilities, and staffing.
  • Serve as primary advisor to the Chief Nursing Officerregarding overall programs, management, and operations of the unit, with majorprogram development, program analysis, staff supervision, and policymakingresponsibility.
  • Assist with the management of resources, determination ofstaff functions, and development of operating policies for the unit. Review andinitiate programs and operations that commit departmental resources, establishpolicies related to utilization of departmental resources.
  • Coordinate andfacilitate organizational, financial, programming, and physical planning.
  • Serve as the subjectmatter expert in the field of Infection Prevention & Control. Exerciseknowledge and methodology for infection outbreaks and exposures
  • Research and define Infection Prevention & Control ideasand issues; recommend actions, pursue solutions, and implement appropriatecourses of action. Coordinate with clinical and operational leaders and staffto develop policy recommendations for the Chief Nursing Officer.
  • Serve as primary contact for The Joint Commission (TJC)surveys and survey preparations to assure medical center compliance with allinfection-related TJC standards.
  • Keep abreast of relevant Illinois Departmentof Public Health (IDPH), Illinois Department of Health (DOH), OccupationalHealth & Safety Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Prevention andControl (CDC), and National Health Safety Network (NHSN) standards andrequirements.
  • Act as liaison to campus and university departments andrepresent the Chief Nursing Officer on committees.
  • Serve as a primary contact for UniversityBioterrorism/Pandemic influenza preparedness as related to Infection Control.
  • Plan, assign, and review work of staff to ensure that groupobjectives are met. Hire, train, develop, and manage staff to ensure that aqualified staff exists to meet group objectives.
  • Perform other related duties and participate in specialprojects as assigned

Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Certification in Infection Control (CIC) by the Certification Board in Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC)
    required.
  • Minimum of five years of diverse and progressively responsible Infection Control experience required.
  • Excellent communication skills and experience using spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation software
    required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Epidemiology, Nursing, or Public Health preferred.
  • Prior supervisory experience preferred.
  • RN or other clinical license preferred.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

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