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Machine Learning Computational Chemistry Jobs in Illinois

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Machine Learning Computational Chemistry information

See Illinois salary details

$21.5K

$100.4K

$185.6K

How much do machine learning computational chemistry jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine learning computational chemistry in Illinois is $100,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,565.00 and $135,570.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Learning Computational Chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Learning Computational Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by an advanced degree in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python), machine learning frameworks (like TensorFlow or PyTorch), and molecular modeling software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective collaboration are key soft skills that help drive innovation and teamwork. These skills and qualifications are critical for developing accurate models, advancing research, and translating computational insights into real-world chemical solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Machine Learning Computational Chemistry roles?

One common challenge in Machine Learning Computational Chemistry roles is integrating large and often complex chemical datasets with appropriate machine learning models, which requires a solid understanding of both domains. Professionals may also encounter difficulties in ensuring that their models are both interpretable and generalizable to new data, as overfitting is a frequent issue. Additionally, collaboration with chemists and data scientists is essential, so clear communication across disciplines is key to success. Staying up to date with the latest developments in both computational chemistry and machine learning is crucial for ongoing professional growth.

What is machine learning computational chemistry?

Machine learning computational chemistry is a field that combines machine learning techniques with computational chemistry to accelerate the discovery and design of molecules and materials. By training algorithms on large datasets of chemical information, researchers can predict molecular properties, simulate chemical reactions, and optimize compounds more efficiently than traditional methods. This approach helps reduce the time and cost required for research in drug discovery, materials science, and related fields.

What is the difference between Machine Learning Computational Chemistry vs Computational Chemist?

AspectMachine Learning Computational ChemistryComputational Chemist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in chemistry, computer science, or related fields; knowledge of machine learning and programmingDegree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields; strong background in chemical theory and modeling
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, academia; focus on algorithm development and data analysisLaboratories, research institutions, industry; focus on chemical modeling and simulation
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research institutions applying AI/ML techniquesPharmaceutical, chemical, and materials industries conducting chemical research and development

Machine Learning Computational Chemists specialize in applying machine learning algorithms to chemical data, enhancing predictive models and simulations. Computational Chemists focus on traditional chemical modeling and simulations using computational methods. Both roles require strong chemistry backgrounds, but Machine Learning Computational Chemists emphasize data science and AI skills, while Computational Chemists focus on chemical theory and modeling techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Learning Computational Chemistry jobs in Illinois? For Machine Learning Computational Chemistry jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Learning Computational Chemistry jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Learning Computational Chemistry jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Machine Learning Computational Chemistry jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Machine Learning Computational Chemistry job openings:
Postdoctoral Appointee - Building Agentic AI Platform for X-ray Science

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

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL

$72.88K - $121.47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 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 letter that b _riefly 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 time

The 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 (https://www.anl.gov/hr/healthcare-insurance) 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.