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Microbial Bioinformatics Jobs in Plainfield, 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 Plainfield, IL

Microbial Bioinformatics information

See Plainfield, IL salary details

$58K

$92.1K

$145.7K

How much do microbial bioinformatics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for microbial bioinformatics in Plainfield, IL is $92,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,800.00 and $126,200.00 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 cities near Plainfield, IL are hiring for Microbial Bioinformatics jobs?

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

Microbial Bioinformatics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbial Bioinformatics job openings in Plainfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 42% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 56% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,084 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Bioinformatician - Wolfe Lab

LRES Corporation

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62 - $65/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Employment Opportunities Designed to Help Us Collaborate in Creation!

Bioinformatician - Wolfe Lab

Thank you for your interest in Loyola University Chicago. To view open positions, you may view all open positions by not specifying any search criteria and selecting the "Search" button.

Position Details

Position Details Job Title BIOINFORMATICIAN Position Number 8151038 Work Modality Hybrid – 3 In-Person Is this request for the creation of a new Position (or the modification of an existing Position) to temporarily support the WorkDay ERP? No Job Category University Staff Job Type Full-Time FLSA Status Exempt Campus Maywood-Health Sciences & Rogers Park-Lake Shore Campuses Department Name MICROBIOLOGY Location Code MICROBIOLOGY (06220A) Is this split and/or fully grant funded? Yes

  • Carries out bioinformatic analyses under the guidance of the Principal Investigator
  • Analyzes data from 16S rRNA gene sequencing, whole microbial genome sequencing and shotgun metagenomic sequencing
  • Develops ad hoc scripts (bash, R and Python) for data analysis
  • Familiarity with UNIX -based systems
  • Organizes, records, and presents data
  • Assists other lab members in fundamentals of bioinformatic analysis
  • Assists PI, research staff and student with experimental design, data interpretation, and project dissemination

Minimum Education and/or Work Experience

  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics, or related fields.
  • A minimum of 3 years experience in biomedical research.
  • Genomic data analysis expertise.

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics, or related fields.
  • A minimum of 3 years experience in biomedical research.
  • Genomic data analysis expertise.

Certificates/Credentials/Licenses n/a

Computer Skills Proficiency with MS Office Suite, Internet and email applications.

Supervisory Responsibilities No

Required operation of university owned vehicles No

Does this position require direct animal or patient contact? No

Physical Demands None

Working Conditions None

Open Date 07/29/2026

Close Date

Position Maximum Salary or Hourly Rate $65,000/ann

Position Minimum Salary or Hourly Rate $62,000/ann

Special Instructions to Applicants As a Jesuit, Catholic institution of higher education, we seek candidates who will contribute to our strategic plan to deliver a Transformative Education in the Jesuit tradition. To learn more about Loyola University Chicago’s mission, candidates should consult our website at www.luc.edu/mission/. For information about the university’s focus on transformative education, they should consult our website at www.luc.edu/transformativeed.

About Loyola University Chicago Founded in 1870, Loyola University Chicago is one of the nation’s largest Jesuit, Catholic universities, recognized for its academic excellence, commitment to community engagement, and leadership in sustainability. A Carnegie R1 research institution, Loyola leverages its status as one of an elite group of universities with the highest level of research activity to advance knowledge that serves communities and creates global impact. With 15 schools, colleges, and institutes —including Business, Law, Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences—Loyola operates three primary campuses in the greater Chicago area and one in Rome, Italy, that provide students a transformative, globally connected learning experience. Consistently ranked among the nation’s top universities by U.S. News & World Report, Loyola is a STARS Gold-rated institution that is ranked as one of the country’s most sustainable campuses by The Princeton Review and has earned distinctions from AmeriCorps and the Carnegie Foundation for its longstanding record of service and community engagement. Guided by its Jesuit mission and commitment to caring for the whole person, Loyola educates ethical leaders who think critically, act with purpose, and strive to create a more just and sustainable world.

Loyola University Chicago strives to be an employer of choice by offering its staff and faculty a wide array of affordable, comprehensive, and competitive benefits. To view our benefits in detail, click here.

Loyola adheres to all applicable federal, state, and/or local civil rights laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination in private institutions of higher education. Please see the University’s Nondiscrimination Policy. Quick Link for Posting https://www.careers.luc.edu/postings/35537

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  • * Do you have a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related field and a minimum of 3 years experience in biomedical research?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Why do you want to work for Loyola University Chicago?

    (Open Ended Question)

  • * How do your personal values align with Loyola University Chicago’s mission and values?

    (Open Ended Question)

  • * How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
    • Public Job Posting
    • Internal Job Posting
    • Agency Referral
    • Advertisement/Publication
    • Personal Referral
    • Website
    • Other
Applicant Documents

Required Documents

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter/Letter of Application

Optional Documents

Loyola University Chicago | Information: (773) 508 - 6000
1032 W Sheridan Rd | Chicago, IL | 60660
2018 (c) Loyola University Chicago | University Policies

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