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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

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$41.2K

$83.3K

$112.9K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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.

More about Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs

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:

Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs near you
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 - Department of Pediatrics

University of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The laboratory focuses on mucosal immunology, microbiome-immune interactions, and inflammatory diseases. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with strong experimental skills and experience, as well as an interest in bioinformatics analysis.

The successful candidate will work on NIH-funded projects. The position will directly assist the Principal Investigator in advancing these projects by utilizing a range of technologies, animal models, and human samples.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Animal-related work, including breeding, genotyping, colony maintenance, and conducting animal models.
  • Perform cellular and molecular biology experiments, such as cell culture, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry.
  • Collect and prepare samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS).
  • Participate in special projects as assigned by the Principal Investigator.
  •  
  • Additional Responsibilities
  • Manage general laboratory operations. Design and perform experiments based on established protocols, assist with data analysis and interpretation, prepare publication-quality figures, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
  • Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.
    • University of Illinois logo

    About University of Illinois

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

    Industry

    Colleges, universities, and professional schools

    Company size

    5,001 - 10,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Urbana, IL, US

    Year founded

    1974

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