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Postdoctoral Research Associate Jobs in Downers Grove, IL

Quantum Postdoc Associate

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$69.80K - $92.60K/yr

... Research Associate to contribute to research in quantum sensing and superconducting quantum ... The postdoctoral researcher will participate in the design, simulation, development, integration ...

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Postdoctoral Research Associate information

See Downers Grove, IL salary details

$42.4K

$85.8K

$116.2K

How much do postdoctoral research associate jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research associate in Downers Grove, IL is $85,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $115,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Downers Grove, IL? For Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs in Downers Grove, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Downers Grove, IL are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Associate jobs? Cities near Downers Grove, IL with the most Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Associate job openings in Downers Grove, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,760 per year, or $41.2 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Biology and Bioinformatics - Qiu Lab

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Biology and Bioinformatics - Qiu Lab

University of Illinois

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$62.23K - $75.56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Biology and Bioinformatics - Qiu Lab
Hiring Department: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics
Location: Chicago, IL USA
Requisition ID: 1030256
Posting Close Date: 5/31/2026
Salary: The salaryrange for this position is $62,232 to $75,564 annually. We strive to provide a competitive salary, considering factors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate experience and qualifications and budget constraints. The final salary offer will be determined through a thorough assessment of these elements.
About the University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
Position Summary
Multiple postdoctoral researcher positions in Artifical Intelligence (AI) for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics are available in the Qiu lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Dr. Yuchi Qiu (https://yuchiqiu.github.io) is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BCMG), and a faculty member in the Center for Bioinformatics and Quantitative Biology (CBQB) at UIC.
The successful candidate will conduct computational research at the intersection of AI, bioinformatics, and mathematical modeling, applying these methods to study systems biology, single-cell genomics data analysis, and protein design. The candidates will work in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment, engaging in close collaborations with experimentalists in fields such as developmental, cell, and cancer biology, and protein/drug design. Renewal of the appointment is based on performance and the availabilityof funding.
UIC offers a strong and supportive interdisciplinary research environment by bringing experts in computational biology, bioinformatics, and experimental biology. It is one of the institutes with earliest efforts in bioinformatics with one of the earliest PhD bioinformatics programs in the country in 2003. BCMG is a basic science department in College of Medicine at UIC, where faculty employ cutting-edge molecular and genetics approaches to explore a wide array of fundamental questions, including structural biology, drug development, biotech, signaling, developmental, cell and cancer biology. CBQB is committed to lead major discoveries in disease mechanisms, novel diagnostics and therapeutics, as well as development of devices and algorithms that will improve health, with lasting impact to the society.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop and design novel computational and AI methods for single-cell genomics data analysis, protein design, etc.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary collaborations for bioinformatics data analysis and contributing to systems biology research.
  • Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

  • Minimum Qualifications
    • PhD degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or a related field.
    • Computational background in areas such as AI/deep learning, multiscale modeling, optimization, topological/geometric data analysis, among others.
    • Strong programming skills and experience (e.g., Python, R).

    Preferred Qualifications
    • Interdisciplinary research experience with experimentalists.

    Applicants should upload a Cover Letter for prior and future research interests, Curriculum Vitae, Research Statement, and a list of three references with contact information.
    The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
    The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation.
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

    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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