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Postdoc Jobs in Evanston, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Staff Scientist

Maywood, IL · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Minimum 2‑5 years of postdoctoral scientific training. * 7+ years of relevant work experience. * Intermediate computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office suite. * PhD required, with ability ...

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Postdoc information

See Evanston, IL salary details

$23.5K

$55.4K

$78.3K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Evanston, IL is $55,367.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $62,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoc?

Postdocs, or postdoctoral researchers, are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. This position allows them to deepen their expertise in a specialized area, develop new research skills, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or other sectors. Postdoctoral appointments typically last from one to five years and often involve publishing research findings, collaborating with other scientists, and sometimes teaching responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, strong research skills, and a track record of academic publications. Familiarity with specialized research tools, statistical analysis software, and laboratory techniques (where applicable) is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, independence, and effective communication skills help postdocs excel in collaborative and interdisciplinary environments. These skills are crucial for advancing research objectives, securing funding, and building a foundation for a successful academic or industry career.

What are some common challenges faced by postdocs during their fellowship, and how can they be addressed?

Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing the pressure to publish, and navigating uncertainty around career progression. Building strong communication with mentors, setting clear research goals, and seeking out professional development resources can help address these challenges. Additionally, connecting with peers and participating in interdisciplinary teams can provide support and open up new opportunities for collaboration and skill development.

What is the difference between Postdoc vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdocResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD)Master's or PhD, often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsIndustry, corporate R&D labs, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research centersPrivate companies, government agencies, industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesIndustry research roles and career progression

In summary, a Postdoc is primarily an academic research position focused on gaining specialized research experience after earning a PhD. A Research Scientist typically works in industry or corporate settings, often requiring similar credentials but emphasizing applied research and product development. The choice depends on whether you aim for an academic or industry career path.

Do you need a PhD to be a postdoc?

A postdoctoral position typically requires a PhD in a relevant field, as it is an advanced research role for individuals who have completed their doctoral studies. Some fields or institutions may accept candidates with a master's degree or equivalent, but a PhD is generally standard for postdoc roles. Skills in research methods and academic publishing are also important.

What does a postdoc do?

A postdoc conducts advanced research in a specific field, often after completing a PhD, to deepen expertise and contribute to scientific knowledge. They typically work in academic or research institutions, publish findings, and may supervise students or collaborate with other researchers.

What is a typical postdoc salary?

A typical postdoctoral researcher salary varies by country and institution but generally ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year in the United States. Salaries can be influenced by funding sources, field of study, and experience level, and postdocs often receive benefits such as health insurance and research stipends.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Postdoc jobs in Evanston, IL?

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

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

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

What cities near Evanston, IL are hiring for Postdoc jobs?

Cities near Evanston, IL with the most Postdoc job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in Evanston, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 27% Physical, and 73% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,367 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

$95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 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 629 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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