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Summer Research Program Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

2027 Summer Associate (Intern)

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The Summer Associate program will be approximately 8 weeks long and begin in Summer 2027. We're ... Strong quantitative, research, problem-solving, and written communication skills. * Ability to work ...

Showing results 21-40

Summer Research Program information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$83K

$116.9K

How much do summer research program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for summer research program in Chicago, IL is $83,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer research program?

A Summer Research Program is a structured opportunity, often hosted by universities or research institutions, that allows students to gain hands-on research experience during the summer months. Participants work closely with faculty or research staff on specific projects, learning research methods and contributing to ongoing studies. These programs are designed to help students develop critical thinking, technical skills, and a deeper understanding of a particular field. They often culminate in presentations or reports, and can be valuable for those considering graduate school or research careers.

What types of projects and day-to-day tasks can participants expect in a summer research program?

Participants in a Summer Research Program typically engage in hands-on research activities, such as conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating with faculty or graduate student mentors. Daily tasks may involve literature reviews, lab work, attending seminars, and presenting findings during group meetings. The program fosters teamwork and independent problem-solving, giving participants exposure to real-world research environments and methodologies. This experience is valuable for building technical skills and professional networks, often paving the way for future academic or research opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a summer research program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Research Program, you need a solid academic background in your field of study, strong analytical skills, and prior coursework or experience relevant to the research area. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory techniques, or relevant research methodologies is often required. Strong communication, curiosity, and time management skills help participants collaborate effectively and manage independent projects. These abilities are crucial for making meaningful research contributions and maximizing learning during the program.

What is the difference between Summer Research Program vs Research Intern?

AspectSummer Research ProgramResearch Intern
CredentialsTypically undergraduate or graduate students; minimal certifications requiredSimilar; often students or early-career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research centers, universitiesResearch labs, corporate R&D, academic institutions
DurationUsually 8-12 weeks during summerVaries from a few weeks to several months
PurposeEducational experience, skill development, networkingHands-on research, project contribution, skill building

Both Summer Research Programs and Research Internships offer valuable research experience for students and early-career individuals. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Summer Research Programs are typically structured as short-term, educational summer experiences at academic institutions, whereas Research Internships can be more varied in duration and may occur in corporate or research settings. Understanding these differences can help applicants choose the best opportunity for their career goals.

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Summer Research Program jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Summer Research Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Research Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,000 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Quantitative Research Intern (PhD) - Summer 2027

IMC

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$250K/yr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Our 10-week internship is your chance to experience life as a Quant Researcher at IMC. You will work alongside your mentor to explore new research ideas and build custom analysis tools that may be deployed into production. Throughout the summer, there will be opportunities to enhance your knowledge of options theory, market making, algorithm complexity and trades analysis. We provide a highly competitive compensation package with accommodations included. The bar for talent at IMC is high and interns who meet our performance expectations will have the opportunity to secure a full time Graduate Quant Researcher position at the end of the program. Where you go from here is up to you!
Your Core Responsibilities:
  • Team up with Quant Researchers to work on real projects that have potential to impact our business
  • Enhance your understanding of options theory through classroom-based instruction
  • Develop your research skills with support and feedback from a dedicated mentor and intern lead
  • Build valuable connections in an environment that recognizes and rewards problem solving, innovation and teamwork
  • Engage in professional development sessions aimed at helping you envision your future at IMC
  • Attend a full-schedule of events and social activities to get to know your cohort and current employees

Your Skills and Experience:
  • Current university student graduating between September 2027 - July 2028 that is pursuing a PhD degree in Mathematics, Engineering, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or another highly quantitative field
  • Superior numerical, analytical, and critical thinking skills
  • Has a passion for research and solving complex problems
  • A creative thinker who is driven, resilient, and eager to develop trading intuition
  • Experience in a programming language (Python, C, C++) is highly desired
  • Must be able to start internship in-person on June 7, 2027

You may submit one application per role each year. We strongly encourage you to focus on applying to a single role that best matches your skills and interests. Though you may apply to multiple roles, please note that each application will be evaluated based on the specific criteria established for that particular role.If you have already applied for this position during the current recruitment season and were not selected, you may reapply when the next recruitment season begins in 2027.
The Base Salary range for the role is included below. Base salary is only one component of total compensation; all full-time, permanent positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and benefits, including paid leave and insurance. Please visit Benefits - US | IMC Trading for more comprehensive information.
Base Salary: $250,000
About Us
IMC is a global trading firm powered by a cutting-edge research environment and a world-class technology backbone. Since 1989, we've been a stabilizing force in financial markets, providing essential liquidity upon which market participants depend. Across our offices in the US, Europe, Asia Pacific, and India, our talented quant researchers, engineers, traders, and business operations professionals are united by our uniquely collaborative, high-performance culture, and our commitment to giving back. From entering dynamic new markets to embracing disruptive technologies, and from developing an innovative research environment to diversifying our trading strategies, we dare to continuously innovate and collaborate to succeed.