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Weekend Material Science Postdoc Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Weekend Material Science Postdoc information

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How much do weekend material science postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for weekend material science postdoc in Chicago, IL is $23.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Weekend Material Science Postdoc vs Part-Time Material Scientist?

AspectWeekend Material Science PostdocPart-Time Material Scientist
CredentialsPhD in Material Science or related fieldDegree in Material Science or related field, possibly with industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, limited hours on weekendsIndustry or research lab, flexible hours, part-time schedule
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, academic projectsManufacturers, R&D departments, industry projects
Search & Comparison IntentAcademic research, postdoctoral opportunitiesIndustry roles, part-time research or consulting

The Weekend Material Science Postdoc typically involves academic research with a focus on advancing scientific knowledge, often in university settings. In contrast, a Part-Time Material Scientist usually works in industry, applying material science principles to product development or quality control on a flexible schedule. Both roles require relevant degrees, but their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by weekend material science postdocs, and how can they be managed?

Weekend Material Science Postdocs often balance intensive research tasks with the unique challenge of working primarily over weekends, which can impact collaboration with weekday staff and access to certain resources. Managing time efficiently and communicating proactively with colleagues is crucial to ensure project continuity and data sharing. Additionally, postdocs may need to coordinate experiments around limited lab availability or equipment maintenance schedules. Establishing clear goals and maintaining regular updates with supervisors can help mitigate these challenges and foster a productive work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weekend material science postdoc?

A Weekend Material Science Postdoc typically requires a PhD in materials science or a related field, with strong analytical, research, and laboratory skills. Proficiency in materials characterization tools (such as SEM, TEM, XRD), data analysis software, and familiarity with laboratory safety protocols are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective time management, and clear communication enable collaboration and independent work during non-standard hours. These competencies ensure rigorous research outcomes, efficient use of resources, and effective contribution to scientific advancements in a flexible work schedule.

What is a weekend material science postdoc?

A Weekend Material Science Postdoc is a postdoctoral researcher who focuses on materials science projects, typically working during weekends or on a flexible schedule. This role involves conducting experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with other researchers to advance knowledge in materials science fields such as nanotechnology, polymers, or metals. Weekend positions may be designed for individuals balancing other commitments or for labs that require extended coverage. The role often includes publishing research findings and contributing to grant proposals. It is ideal for those looking to gain specialized experience while maintaining a non-traditional work schedule.
What are the most commonly searched types of Material Science Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Material Science Postdoc jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Postdoctoral Appointee - Building Agentic AI Platform for X-ray Science

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL • On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Job Summary:
Argonne National Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the X-ray Science Division. The successful candidate will develop an AI-enabled platform for X-ray absorption spectroscopy, working with a multidisciplinary team to advance agentic AI tools for simulation, interpretation, data analysis, and scientific discovery.
Responsibilities:
• Develop an AI-enabled platform for X-ray absorption spectroscopy by integrating LLMs, scientific machine learning, physics-aware workflows, and strong computational chemistry/electronic-structure expertise.
• Work with a multidisciplinary team to advance agentic AI tools for simulation, interpretation, data analysis, and scientific discovery.
Qualifications:
Required:
• A recent PhD (within 5 years) in computational chemistry, chemistry, materials science, physics, computational science, computer science, engineering, or a related field.
• Strong computational chemistry background in atomistic simulations, electronic-structure theory, DFT, structure-property relationships, and interpretation of simulation results.
• Hands-on experience with DFT or electronic-structure codes such as VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, CP2K, ABINIT, GPAW, Gaussian, ORCA, Q-Chem, or related packages.
• Strong materials science or chemistry domain knowledge, such as bonding, defects, catalysis, batteries, solid-state chemistry, molecular systems, or related materials classes.
• Strong Python skills and familiarity with LLM APIs, agent frameworks, PyTorch, and the Python scientific stack (e.g., numpy, pandas, scikit-learn). Passion for front-end development and web-based applications, back-end services and API design (e.g., FastAPI, Flask), and deploying applications in local or cloud environments.
• Experience with complex scientific datasets and reproducible analysis or simulation workflows.
• Effective written and oral communications skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Commitment to Argonne's Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.
Preferred:
• Experience with X-ray absorption spectroscopy theory, modelling, and interpretation, including XANES/EXAFS.
• Hands-on experience with XAS simulation packages such as FEFF, OCEAN, FDMNES, XSpectra, or exciting.
• Experience comparing simulated and experimental XAS/XAFS spectra.
• Experience with high-throughput spectroscopy workflows, HPC, synchrotron datasets, or physics-informed AI.
Company:
Argonne National Laboratory conducts researches in basic science, energy resources, and environmental management. Founded in 1946, the company is headquartered in Lemont, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.