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Postdoc Research Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$61K/yr

Postdoctoral Research Scientist FLSA Status: Exempt Department: Negaunee Integrative Research Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to ...

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Postdoc Research information

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$43.8K

$88.6K

$120K

How much do postdoc research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc research in Chicago, IL is $88,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoc research position?

Postdoc research positions, or postdoctoral research fellowships, are temporary academic or research roles held by individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD). These positions allow researchers to deepen their expertise in a specialized area, contribute to academic publications, and gain further experience before moving on to more permanent academic or industry roles. Postdocs often work under the supervision of a principal investigator, participate in research projects, and may also mentor students. The duration of a postdoc can vary but typically lasts from one to three years.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc Researcher, you need advanced expertise in your subject area, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a strong track record of academic research. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory techniques, and tools such as MATLAB, R, or specialized equipment is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication are vital soft skills for generating impactful research and working within diverse teams. These skills and qualities are essential for producing high-quality research, securing funding, and advancing in an academic or research-focused career.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing publication pressure, and securing funding or future positions. Navigating the transition from student to professional researcher can also be demanding, as postdocs are expected to demonstrate increasing autonomy and leadership within their teams. Building strong mentorship relationships, actively networking at conferences, and seeking professional development opportunities can help address these challenges and support career progression.

What is the difference between Postdoc Research vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoc ResearchResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD, often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universitiesIndustry labs, corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research universitiesPrivate companies, biotech, tech firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentAcademic career path, research rolesIndustry research roles, career advancement

Postdoc Research positions are primarily academic roles focused on specialized research after earning a PhD, often aiming for a future academic career. Research Scientists typically work in industry, applying research skills to product development or innovation. While both roles require advanced degrees, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

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 are popular job titles related to Postdoc Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

Postdoc Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoc Research job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,551 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Field Museum

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$61K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position: Postdoctoral Research Scientist
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Negaunee Integrative Research
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Grainger Bioinformatics Center in the Science and Education Department at The Field Museum is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to conduct phylogenomic research on lichens. This is a full-time, 2-year position focused on RADseq and target enrichment datasets to investigate evolutionary relationships, phylogenetics, and species delimitation. Ongoing projects and datasets are available, enabling rapid progress toward publication.
The successful candidate will work on population genomic and phylogenetic analyses using RADseq and target enrichment data. Responsibilities include SNP data processing, population structure analyses, phylogenetic inference, and species delimitation using modern statistical and computational approaches. Analyses will be conducted primarily in R and Python.
Applicants should have a strong background in bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. Experience with genomic data analysis, phylogenetics, and working in Linux-based environments is required. Familiarity with population genomics tools and coalescent-based methods is preferred.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to manuscript preparation, with the expectation of leading at least one first-author publication and collaborating on additional research projects. The position includes mentorship responsibilities, including training undergraduate students from underrepresented groups in STEM and contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
This position is based on-site at The Field Museum in Chicago, with an anticipated start date of August 10th. Mentorship will follow an established Postdoctoral Mentoring Plan.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision byDirector, Phylogenomic Studies, Grainger Bioinformatics Center
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers๏ฟฝ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $61,461/Annually
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org .

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