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Postdoc Research Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... Postdoctoral Researcher at the Rank of Research Associate. We seek outstanding early career scholars interested in any aspect of climate systems engineering. The University of Chicago is building a ...

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Postdoc Research Associate information

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$10

$19

$33

How much do postdoc research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for postdoc research associate in Chicago, IL is $19.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoc research associate?

A Postdoc Research Associate is an individual who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in advanced academic or scientific research, usually on a temporary contract. Postdocs work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, contributing to ongoing research projects and often leading their own studies. Their main goal is to gain further research experience, publish findings, and develop skills needed for academic or industry careers. Postdoc positions are common in universities, research institutes, and some private sector organizations.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a postdoc research associate within a research institution?

As a Postdoc Research Associate, you will frequently collaborate with principal investigators, graduate students, and fellow postdocs both within your department and across interdisciplinary teams. These collaborations often involve co-authoring research papers, designing experiments, and sharing specialized expertise or equipment. Many institutions also encourage postdocs to participate in seminars, lab meetings, and grant-writing sessions, which foster networking and skill development. Such teamwork not only enriches your research but also broadens your professional network, which can be crucial for future career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoc research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc Research Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, robust research experience, and advanced analytical skills. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and scientific publishing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration are essential soft skills for presenting findings and working within research teams. These skills ensure high-quality research output, effective teamwork, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What is the difference between Postdoc Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoc Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsUniversities, research centers, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and government researchAcademia, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Postdoc Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in experience level and career stage. Postdoc Research Associates are typically early-career researchers with a Ph.D. working on specific projects, often aiming for academic careers. Research Scientists usually have more experience, may hold advanced degrees, and work on broader research initiatives in academia or industry. Both roles require strong research skills and doctoral credentials, but their responsibilities and career paths differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Postdoc Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Postdoc Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Postdoc Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoc Research Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,342 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Pediatrics

University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The laboratory focuses on mucosal immunology, microbiome-immune interactions, and inflammatory diseases. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with strong experimental skills and experience, as well as an interest in bioinformatics analysis.

The successful candidate will work on NIH-funded projects. The position will directly assist the Principal Investigator in advancing these projects by utilizing a range of technologies, animal models, and human samples.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Animal-related work, including breeding, genotyping, colony maintenance, and conducting animal models.
  • Perform cellular and molecular biology experiments, such as cell culture, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry.
  • Collect and prepare samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS).
  • Participate in special projects as assigned by the Principal Investigator.
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  • Additional Responsibilities
  • Manage general laboratory operations. Design and perform experiments based on established protocols, assist with data analysis and interpretation, prepare publication-quality figures, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
  • Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.