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Postdoctoral 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 ...

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Postdoctoral information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$60.8K

$86K

How much do postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral in Chicago, IL is $60,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $68,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral researcher?

Postdoctoral researchers, often called 'postdocs,' are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in further academic or scientific research. They typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member to gain additional training, develop new skills, and contribute to research projects. Postdocs are a common step for those pursuing academic careers, but their experience can also be valuable for roles in industry or government. The position is usually temporary, lasting from one to several years, allowing researchers to deepen their expertise in a specialized field.

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

Postdoctoral researchers often encounter challenges such as balancing the demands of publishing, securing funding, and developing their own research identity while still working under a principal investigator. Navigating the path to independence can also involve building a professional network and gaining experience in grant writing and project management. Supportive mentors and institutional resources can help, but it's important to proactively seek out opportunities for leadership and collaboration to position yourself for future faculty or industry roles.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Researcher, you need an advanced degree (usually a PhD), strong research skills, and deep subject matter expertise in your field. Proficiency with data analysis tools, laboratory techniques, and research software such as Python, R, or MATLAB is often required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills set candidates apart by enabling effective teamwork and dissemination of findings. These abilities are vital for driving original research, publishing impactful work, and advancing academic or industry careers.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoralResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) often requiredMaster's or Ph.D., depending on the field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsIndustry labs, corporate R&D, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Postdoctoral researchers typically hold a Ph.D. and work in academic or research institutions to gain specialized experience. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but are employed in industry or corporate R&D settings. While both roles involve research, Postdoctoral positions are usually temporary and focused on academic advancement, whereas Research Scientists are often permanent staff working on applied projects in industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Postdoctoral jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Postdoctoral job openings:

Postdoctoral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,801 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Northwestern University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: MED-Transplant Center
Salary/Grade: RES/
Postdoctoral Scholar - CTIL
The Comprehensive Transplant Immunobiology Laboratory ( CTIL ) https://labs.feinberg.northwestern.edu/ctil/index.html in the Division of Organ Transplantation at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join an interdisciplinary research team. Our laboratory integrates a range of bioengineering, metabolism, cell and molecular biology, and immunology approaches, using in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro models to develop novel therapeutic strategies that improve donor organ quality and long-term transplant outcomes
Our research focuses on understanding how ischemia-reperfusion injury alters donor organs, with a particular emphasis on microvascular endothelial cells, the first cells to respond to transplantation-associated stress. We investigate mechanisms of endothelial injury and develop innovative donor organ preconditioning strategies to enhance graft resilience prior to transplantation.
Required Qualifications:
Applicants should possess a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, bioengineering, or a related discipline. Highly motivated individuals with a prior record of conducting basic or translational research, experience with writing/drafting manuscripts and/or grants, and excellent communication skills are preferred.
Candidates should have demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Immunology or immunometabolism
  • Solid organ transplantation
  • Endothelial cell biology
  • Cell and molecular biology
  • Extracellular vesicles (EVs) or exosome biology
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead independent projects while working within a collaborative environment that spans basic science and clinical transplantation. This position is available for a minimum of two years, with an opportunity for renewal pending satisfactory performance. The salary and benefits are competitive. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
Contact:
Interested candidates should email the following items to Dr. Dinesh Jaishankar at dinesh.jaishankar@northwestern.edu with the subject line Applicant Name_CTIL Postdoc Position .
  • Cover letter
  • Statement of research interests, qualifications, and career goals
  • Curriculum vitae (including publications list)
  • Names and contact information of 3 references
    Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .

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