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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Illinois

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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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$41.2K

$83.3K

$112.9K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Illinois is $83,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral research associate?

A Postdoctoral Research Associate, often called a postdoc, is a person who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and is engaged in scholarly research as part of a temporary position, usually at a university or research institution. The role is designed to deepen their expertise in a specific field, contribute to research projects, publish academic papers, and develop skills for future independent research or academic positions. Postdocs typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator (PI) and may also mentor graduate or undergraduate students.

What is a postdoctoral research associate?

Postdoctoral research associates are professionals who have completed their doctorate and are continuing their research to gain hands-on experience before starting their academic careers. Their duties usually include researching with the support of a small team and writing papers for academic journals. Depending on the field of research, a postdoctoral research associate may also have other responsibilities. These positions are typically short-term.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral research associate?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in a relevant field, strong research methodology skills, and a track record of scholarly publications. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, or programming languages is often required, depending on the research area. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective written and verbal communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality research, contributing to scientific advancement, and securing future academic or industry positions.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral research associates when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral Research Associates often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple research projects, securing independent funding, and developing a unique research identity separate from their advisor. Navigating the transition also involves building professional networks and gaining experience in grant writing, mentoring, and publishing as a lead author. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating across disciplines can help ease these challenges and support a successful move to an independent research career.

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

AspectPostdoctoral Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsIndustry, corporate R&D, or academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government labs, research institutesPrivate companies, biotech, pharma, tech firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral Research Associates typically hold a Ph.D. and work in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but may work in industry settings with broader responsibilities, including product development and applied research. The main difference lies in the work environment and career stage, with Postdoctoral Research Associates usually in early career research roles and Research Scientists in more advanced, industry-focused positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Illinois?

For Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,297 per year, or $40 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of the District of Columbia

Campus, IL โ€ข On-site

$26 - $32.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct experiments, acquire data, analyze and interpret data related to mobility, gait, balance, biomechanics, prosthetics, and assistive robotics.

  • Develop models and identification algorithms, perform statistical analyses, and prepare manuscripts and conference presentations.

  • Lead and direct the work of lower-level research staff and collaborate with the PI and students on research projects.


Job description

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Career Opportunities at UDC >> Postdoctoral Research Associate
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Summary
Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate ID: 2348 Department: School of Engineering & Applied Sciences (SEAS) Location: UDC- Main Campus Van Ness Campus - NW
Description

Number of Vacancies: 1
Area of Consideration: Open To The Publicย 
Employment Status: Full Time, Temporary
Pay Plan, Series & Grade: DS0058/8
Salary Range: $26.00-$32.97 per hour
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Location: 4200 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
Brief Description of Duties
The Center for Biomechanical and Rehabilitation (CBRE) Laboratory at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with research interests tied to in mobility, gait, balance, biomechanics, prosthetics and/or assistive robotics.ย 

The Postdoctoral Associate's responsibilities include but are not limited to conducting experiments and acquiring data, analyzing and interpreting data, developing models and identification algorithms, performing statistical analyses, preparing manuscripts and conference presentations, and other related tasks. The Associate may lead and direct the work of lower-level research staff.ย  The position is full-time, for at least one year, with the possibility of renewal for multiple years pending satisfactory performance and funding.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
ย 

  • Conduct high quality research
  • Work closely with the PI, graduate and undergraduate students
  • Participate in relevant teaching and outreach activities
  • Present at conferences and publish peer-reviewed publications
  • Facilitate progress reports
  • Seek external funding to support and expand upon research activities
  • To initiate research projects

Minimum Job Requirements
ย 

  • A Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Rehabilitation Engineering or another related field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics) by time of appointment
  • Knowledge of human subject research
  • Motivation and self-direction
  • Exemplary problem-solving, as well as written and oral communication skills
  • Eligibility to work legally in the United States
  • A track record of scholarly researchย ย 
  • Ability to work with the research team which includes undergraduate and graduate students
  • Experience with biostatistics and data analysis is desirable

Information to Applicant
Condition of Employment:ย 
This is a sponsored program appointment. The duration of this appointment is subject to grant fund availability.
Collective Bargaining Unit (Non-Union): This position is not in the collective bargaining unit.
Employment Benefits:ย Depending upon length of appointment, selecteeย may or may not be eligible for full benefits such asย health and life insurance, annual (vacation) and sick leave and may not be eligible for the University of the District of Columbia's retirement plan (TIAA).
Equal Opportunity Employer: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.
Notice of Non-Discrimination: In accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, D.C. Official Code, Section 2-1401.01 et. seq., (Act) the University of the District of Columbia does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived actual race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, marital status, personal appearance, genetic information, familial status, source of income, status as a victim of an intrafamily offense, place of residence or business,ย  or status as a covered veteran, as provided for and to the extent required by District and Federal statutes and regulations. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is also prohibited by the Act.ย  In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act.ย  Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated.ย  Violators will be subject to disciplinary action.
Veterans Preference:ย  Applicants claiming veteran's preference must submit official proof at the time of application.
Visa Sponsorship: While at this time the University of the District of Columbia does not provide sponsorship for visas (e.g. H-1B), we encourage and will consider individuals in an eligible OPT.
Drug-Free Workplace: Pursuant to the requirements of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the individual selected to fill this position will, as a condition of employment, be required to notify his/her immediate supervisor, in writing, not later than five (5) days after conviction of any criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace.
Background Investigation: Employment with the University of the District of Columbia is contingent upon a satisfactory background investigation.ย  The determination of a "satisfactory backgroundย investigation" is made at the sole discretion of the University of the District of Columbia.ย  The University may refuse to hire a finalist, rescind an offer of employment to a finalist or review and may terminate the employment of a current employee based on the results of a background investigation.
Disposition of Resume: Resumes received outside the area of consideration and/or after the closing date will not be given consideration. You must resubmit your resume to receive consideration for any subsequent advertised position vacancies. For the purpose of employment, resumes are not considered job applications. Therefore, if selected for employment a UDC application will be required.
Job Offers: Official Job Offers are made by the University of the District of Columbia, Office of Talent Management only.
Contact Information:ย ย All inquiriesย related to employment and job applications should be directed to UDC Office ofย Talent Managementย atย (202) 274-5380.
The University of the District of Columbia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a full version of the University's EO Policy Statement, please visit:ย https://www.udc.edu/human-resources/equal-opportunity/ย .

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