ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Microbial Bioinformatics Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The University of Chicago

Staff Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Job Summary The Staff Scientist will conduct original research modeling immune-microbe interactions ... D. in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a closely related quantitative ...

All JobsMicrobial Bioinformatics JobsMicrobial Bioinformatics Jobs in Chicago, IL

Microbial Bioinformatics information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$61.3K

$97.3K

$154K

How much do microbial bioinformatics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbial bioinformatics in Chicago, IL is $97,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $133,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is microbial bioinformatics?

Microbial bioinformatics is a scientific field that combines biology, computer science, and statistics to analyze and interpret the genetic information of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Specialists in microbial bioinformatics use computational tools to study microbial genomes, understand microbial diversity, and track the spread of pathogens. This field plays a vital role in medical research, public health, biotechnology, and environmental studies by enabling researchers to make sense of large-scale microbial data. It helps in identifying new species, understanding antibiotic resistance, and developing new diagnostics and treatments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microbial bioinformatician?

To thrive as a Microbial Bioinformatician, you need a solid background in microbiology, genomics, and computational biology, typically supported by an advanced degree in bioinformatics, microbiology, or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python, R), bioinformatics tools (like QIIME, BLAST, or MEGA), and familiarity with high-throughput sequencing data analysis are essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate data analysis, meaningful biological insights, and successful project outcomes in microbial research.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in microbial bioinformatics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in microbial bioinformatics often encounter challenges such as handling large, complex datasets, ensuring data quality, and keeping up with rapidly evolving bioinformatics tools and technologies. Collaborating closely with wet-lab scientists and other bioinformaticians is crucial to accurately interpret results and tailor analyses to specific research questions. Staying up to date through continued education and active participation in bioinformatics communities can help address these challenges and support career growth in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Microbial Bioinformatics vs Microbial Genomics?

AspectMicrobial BioinformaticsMicrobial Genomics
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Bioinformatics, Biology, or related fields; proficiency in programmingBachelor's or Master's in Genomics, Molecular Biology, or related fields; laboratory experience
Work EnvironmentData analysis, computational labs, research institutionsLaboratories, research institutions, sequencing centers
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, academia, healthcare, research institutesGenomics companies, biotech, academic research

Microbial Bioinformatics focuses on analyzing microbial genetic data using computational tools, while Microbial Genomics involves sequencing and studying microbial genomes in laboratory settings. Both roles often overlap but differ mainly in their emphasis on data analysis versus laboratory work.

What are popular job titles related to Microbial Bioinformatics jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Microbial Bioinformatics jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Microbial Bioinformatics jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Microbial Bioinformatics jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Microbial Bioinformatics jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Microbial Bioinformatics job openings:

Microbial Bioinformatics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbial Bioinformatics job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,322 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Bioinformatics Scientist

Discover International

Mundelein, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Bioinformatics Scientist | South San Francisco, CA (Remote Flex)


I'm working on a retained search for a high-growth DNA sequencing company that's quietly become one of the most-used platforms in modern biotech — Nobel laureates, top-tier startups, and DIY biohackers all run their science through this platform daily.


They're building something genuinely different: a team that moves at software speed inside a biology world. If you've ever been frustrated by how slow biotech moves, this is for you.


The Role

This isn't a "maintain the pipeline" job. You'll be architecting production-grade bioinformatics workflows that process thousands of samples per day, developing novel algorithms that turn raw sequencing data into fast, intuitive insights, and translating that science directly into user-facing experiences. You'll also mentor teammates and help set the technical direction of the function.


What They're Looking For

  • PhD in Bioinformatics, CS, Statistics, Physics or similar — with 3+ years building production pipelines
  • Deep domain expertise in at least one of: microbial genomics (assembly/metagenomics), variant calling/large-scale genomics, or bulk/single-cell RNA-seq
  • Production experience with Nextflow or Snakemake, including cloud deployments
  • Strong Python (numpy, pandas, biopython, Jupyter) and solid Linux/Git fundamentals
  • Bonus: a track record of publishing or developing novel bioinformatics algorithms


Why It's Worth a Conversation

✅ Mission-driven accelerating life-saving research globally

✅ Small, elite team real ownership and impact from day one

✅ Fast-moving culture that rewards intellectual curiosity


Contact Sam Shinner at Discover International to apply


Discover International logo

About Discover International

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In the ever changing and complex work environment Life Science Organisations face today, a flexible workforce is key to agility and performance. Working in partnership we review your requirements, challenges and goals, and design a tailored Discover Consulting solution that delivers the results you need. Discover Consulting provides a tailored, trusted, end-to-end consultancy service and the best independent contractors in the market.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Miami, FL, US

Social media

Instagram

View All Discover International Jobs

Apply