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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

Postdoctoral Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.8K

$88.6K

$120.1K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Chicago, IL is $88,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $119,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral AssociateResearch Scientist
Required credentialsPh.D. in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., depending on industry
Work environmentAcademic labs, universitiesIndustry labs, corporate R&D
Employer and industry usagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common search intentResearch, academic career developmentProduct development, applied research

Postdoctoral Associates typically hold a Ph.D. and work mainly in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but are employed in industry settings, focusing on applied research and product development. The roles overlap in qualifications but differ in work environment and career focus.

What is a postdoctoral associate?

Postdoctoral Associates are individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. They work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, typically at a university or research institution. The main goal of a Postdoctoral Associate is to deepen their expertise in a specific field of study, contribute to ongoing research projects, and prepare for an independent career in academia, industry, or other research-related fields.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral associates when managing independent research projects?

Postdoctoral Associates often encounter challenges in balancing the demands of independent research with collaborative projects and administrative responsibilities. Managing time effectively, securing funding, and navigating the publication process can be particularly demanding. Additionally, Postdocs must adapt to the expectations of their principal investigator and the broader research team, while also building their professional network and developing a clear path toward future career advancement. Proactive communication and organizational skills are key to overcoming these challenges and making the most of the postdoctoral experience.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, advanced research skills, and a strong publication record. Experience with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and familiarity with grant writing or academic publishing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively share findings and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing research goals, securing funding, and building a successful academic or industry career.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,621 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

$46K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago provides superior pediatric care in a setting that offers the latest benefits and innovations in medical technology, research and family-friendly design. As the largest pediatric provider in the region with a 140-year legacy of excellence, kids and their families are at the center of all we do. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago is ranked in all 10 specialties by the U.S. News & World Report.

Location

Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to work on projects related to central and peripheral nervous system tumors (brain tumors and peripheral nerve sheath tumors). The candidate will be primarily responsible for performing experiments studying the effect of different drug interventions on tumor growth in a mouse model. An ideal candidate would have mouse handling experience, including breeding, genotyping, collection of samples/data from mouse experiments, oral gavage, and IP injections. Additionally, the candidate will be expected to participate in the general management and daily operation of the lab, manuscript writing, grant writing, training of technicians and students.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ph. D. or MD in Medical or Biological Science Program.
  • Knowledge in Computer programs, word, excel and power point presentations.
  • Excellent writing and communication skills.
  • Organizational skills: Ability to establish priorities and react promptly to a large variety of requestsand needs, sometimes in stressful situations.

Job Duties:

  • Provide researchers as requested with technical assistance.
  • Performs job functions adhering to principals of innovation, academic excellence and teamwork to provide the highest quality research effort to our Institution, co-workers and others.
  • Genetic studies, molecular biology Redcap/ Imaging software, gene chip arrays and others.
  • Analyzing data.
  • Preparing data for presentations, grants and publications.
  • Help write grant proposals and progress reports related to research projects.
  • Participate in regular lab meetings, journal clubs, and research seminars.
  • Other job functions as assigned.

Education

PhD: Biology

Pay Range

$46,280.00-$75,670.40 Salary

At Lurie Children's, we are committed to competitive and fair compensation aligned with market rates and internal equity, reflecting individual contributions, experience, and expertise. The pay range for this job indicates minimum and maximum targets for the position. Ranges are regularly reviewed to stay aligned with market conditions.In addition to base salary, Lurie Children's offer a comprehensive rewards package that may include differentials for some hourly employees, leadership incentivesfor select roles, health and retirement benefits, and wellbeing programs. For more details on other compensation, consult your recruiter or click the followinglink to learn more about our benefits.

Benefit Statement


For full time and part time employees who work 20 or more hours per week we offer a generous benefits package that includes:

Medical, dental and vision insurance

Employer paid group term life and disability

Employer contribution toward Health Savings Account

Flexible Spending Accounts

Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave

403(b) with a 5% employer match


Various voluntary benefits:

  • Supplemental Life, AD&D and Disability
  • Critical Illness, Accident and Hospital Indemnity coverage
  • Tuition assistance
  • Student loan servicing and support
  • Adoption benefits
  • Backup Childcare and Eldercare
  • Employee Assistance Program, and other specialized behavioral health services and resources for employees and family members
  • Discount on services at Lurie Children's facilities
  • Discount purchasing program

There's a Place for You with Us


At Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and its affiliates (collectively "Lurie Children's"), we embrace and celebrate diversity and equity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team with a variety of backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints - recognizing that diverse identities strengthen our workplace and the care we can provide to the Chicago community and beyond. We treat everyone fairly, appreciate differences, and make meaningful connections that foster belonging and allyship.This is a place where you can be your best, so we can give our best to the patients and families who trust us with their care.


Lurie Children's and its affiliates are equal employment opportunity employers. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status, order of protection status, protected genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.


For questions about how to request an accommodation please contact: employeehealth@luriechildrens.org


AI Notice


Lurie Children's utilizes certain AI-enabled features within our recruiting platform to support candidate engagement and assist recruiters in identifying and prioritizing applicants whose experience aligns with job requirements. All employment decisions are made by individuals.


It is a civil rights violation with respect to recruitment, hiring, promotion, or employment for an employer to use artificial intelligence that has the effect of subjecting employees to discrimination on the basis of protected classes under the Illinois Human Rights Act or to use zip codes as a proxy for protected classes.


For questions about the use of artificial intelligence in this process or any additional support, please contact: peoplequestions@luriechildrens.org