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Postdoc Research Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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$43.8K

$88.6K

$120K

How much do postdoc research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 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.

CSEi Research Fellow

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Climate Systems Engineering initiative (CSEi) at the University of Chicago invites applications for the 2027-29 cohort of CSEi Research Fellows, to be appointed as 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 substantial research cluster, including the anticipated addition of ten new faculty lines, on the science, technology, and public policy of Climate Systems Engineering. Our goal is to advance understanding of the benefits, risks, and governance of technologies that might reduce the impacts of accumulated greenhouse gases, and to educate students who will face the challenges of managing industrial civilization on a fragile planet. The CSEi's topical scope includes open-system carbon removal such as enhanced rock weathering, ocean alkalinity enhancement, solar geoengineering, and interventions to limit the loss of glacial ice. The CSEi welcomes research from across fields including the sciences, humanities, social sciences, public policy, and law.
The CSEi Research Fellows program aims to develop the next generation of research leaders who will shape the future of climate systems engineering for the benefit of people and the planet. CSEi Research Fellows will work closely with UChicago faculty mentors, but their research and funding are independent. The program will help them develop strong research networks by facilitating collaboration among the Research Fellows cohort and by ensuring that they have ample opportunities to interact with the whole community of CSEi-affiliated faculty and research leaders. Securing a faculty mentor in advance is strongly preferred, and applicants are encouraged to reach out early to engage a mentor. UChicago faculty members from any discipline may potentially serve as mentors, regardless of whether they have prior experience with climate systems engineering.
To offer a sense of the range of opportunities for collaboration, leading faculty from a variety of fields have contributed statements about research interests and possibilities for collaboration. These statements, available on the CSEi website, are examples of how faculty research interests might overlap with climate systems engineering. Applicants may reach out to any UChicago faculty member about these or other topics.
This is a two-year position, starting between August 3 - September 16, 2027, that offers a $95K salary per year, dedicated workspace, and research and travel funding of $10,000 per year.
This position is benefits eligible - for information on benefits, please consult the University of Chicago Benefits Guide: https://mybenefits.nfp.com/UChicago/benefits-guide/.
Additionally, the University will provide a one-time payment of $4,000 for relocation assistance, payable at the end of the first month of employment at the University. Please note that this payment is taxable.
Teaching is not required, though an optional teaching opportunity during the second year of the fellowship may be available, subject to need and requisite approval. In-person interaction is a crucial part of the program, and Research Fellows are expected to participate actively in the life of the CSEi.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Completion of all requirements for a Ph.D. or other terminal degree appropriate to the field is required at the time of appointment.

Preferred:
  • 0-3 years professional experience.
  • Pre-matching with a faculty mentor and enthusiastic recommendation from the mentor.
  • Academic and professional success in the early career stage (typically graduate school and the first three years after completion of degree) and the potential to make an important contribution to the field of climate systems engineering.

Residency:
The fellowship requires residency in the Chicago area.
For UChicago applicants:
Applicants who are currently postdocs at UChicago or who received terminal degrees from UChicago are eligible, provided their research and mentor arrangements are distinct from their PhD or current postdoctoral research, taking them in new directions and forging new connections.
Application Instructions
Applications must be submitted online via Interfolio at: https://apply.interfolio.com/191139.
The following materials are required:
  • C.V.
  • Statement of research objectives that explains how the research will advance understanding of climate systems engineering, and how the research relates to the applicant's prior work and skills. (maximum 2 pages).
  • Writing sample consisting of a chapter, essay, or article.
  • Two letters of reference: please provide contact information for two letter writers.
  • Name of UChicago faculty member who has agreed to serve as mentor. If applying without a pre-matched mentor, please provide the names of faculty members whom you want to work with and an explanation of why you were not able to secure a mentor in advance.

Complete applications must be submitted via Interfolio by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on November 2, 2026.

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