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Postdoctoral Research Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K/yr

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 ...

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K/yr

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 information

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$43.8K

$88.6K

$120.1K

How much do postdoctoral research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research 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 a postdoctoral research position?

Postdoctoral research positions, often called 'postdocs,' are temporary roles for individuals who have recently completed a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent). Postdocs work under the supervision of experienced researchers and focus on deepening their expertise, conducting advanced research, and publishing scholarly work. These positions are commonly found at universities, research institutes, and sometimes in industry, and are considered a stepping stone toward faculty or permanent research roles. Duties can include designing experiments, mentoring students, writing grant proposals, and presenting findings at conferences.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher, you need advanced expertise in your field, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a strong record of research and publication. Proficiency with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R, Python, or MATLAB), and familiarity with grant writing and academic publishing platforms is essential. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective collaboration and communication skills help you excel in complex, multidisciplinary research environments. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality research, securing funding, and contributing meaningfully to scientific advancements.

What are some common challenges postdoctoral researchers face when transitioning to independent research roles?

Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as securing funding, developing independent research ideas, and balancing research with publishing and networking responsibilities. The transition to independence also requires building a professional reputation and expanding one's network for future collaborations and job opportunities. Many postdocs find mentorship, time management, and learning grant-writing skills essential during this phase to successfully move toward faculty or industry positions.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral ResearchResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.)Master's or Ph.D., often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsCorporate R&D labs, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsIndustry, technology, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesIndustry research roles and career progression

Postdoctoral Research positions are typically academic roles focused on specialized research after earning a Ph.D., often preparing for a faculty or academic career. Research Scientists usually work in industry settings, applying research skills to develop products or solutions. While both roles require advanced degrees, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Is it difficult to get a postdoctoral research position?

Securing a postdoctoral research position can be competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, relevant research experience, and publication history. Candidates typically need to demonstrate specialized skills, such as proficiency with research tools and methodologies, and may face limited openings depending on the field and funding availability.

What does a postdoctoral researcher do?

A postdoctoral researcher conducts advanced scientific or academic research in a specific field, often working under the supervision of a principal investigator. They analyze data, publish findings, and develop expertise to prepare for independent research or academic positions, typically using specialized tools and methodologies. This role often requires a doctoral degree and strong analytical skills.

What is a typical postdoctoral research salary?

A postdoctoral research position typically offers a salary ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on the field, location, and funding source. Salaries may also include benefits such as health insurance and research stipends, with some institutions providing additional support for conference travel and professional development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Postdoctoral Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,551 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

$61K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position: 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 the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Grainger Bioinformatics Center in the Science and Education Department at The Field Museum is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to conduct phylogenomic research on lichens. This is a full-time, 2-year position focused on RADseq and target enrichment datasets to investigate evolutionary relationships, phylogenetics, and species delimitation. Ongoing projects and datasets are available, enabling rapid progress toward publication.
The successful candidate will work on population genomic and phylogenetic analyses using RADseq and target enrichment data. Responsibilities include SNP data processing, population structure analyses, phylogenetic inference, and species delimitation using modern statistical and computational approaches. Analyses will be conducted primarily in R and Python.
Applicants should have a strong background in bioinformatics, computational biology, evolutionary biology, or a related field. Experience with genomic data analysis, phylogenetics, and working in Linux-based environments is required. Familiarity with population genomics tools and coalescent-based methods is preferred.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to manuscript preparation, with the expectation of leading at least one first-author publication and collaborating on additional research projects. The position includes mentorship responsibilities, including training undergraduate students from underrepresented groups in STEM and contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
This position is based on-site at The Field Museum in Chicago, with an anticipated start date of August 10th. Mentorship will follow an established Postdoctoral Mentoring Plan.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision byDirector, Phylogenomic Studies, Grainger Bioinformatics Center
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers� United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $61,461/Annually
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org .

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