Research Scientist Jobs in Illinois
Research Scientist jobs in Illinois are consistently in demand, with hiring concentrated in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, academic research, and materials science across entry-level through senior and principal levels. Chicago, Evanston, and the North Shore research corridor anchor the market, with major employers like Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie, and Argonne National Laboratory driving sustained openings. The most sought-after specialties include computational biology, oncology research, and polymer and materials science. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Research Scientist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 39+ Research Scientist jobs
Assistant Research Scientist, Archaeology
Illinois State Archaeology Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Prairie Research Institute (PRI), a research and service institute of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, houses five State Scientific Surveys covering a wide range of expertise, including biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology, and archaeology. PRI’s mission is to provide objective, integrated scientific research and services that allow citizens and decision-makers to make choices that ensure sustainable economic development, enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservation for the people, businesses, and across Illinois, the nation, and the world.
The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute. For 80 years, the University of Illinois has studied the state’s archaeological heritage. ISAS incorporates that knowledge in its programs to protect, preserve, and interpret these irreplaceable and non-renewable resources within the context of Illinois’ need to encourage and promote sustainable development.
ISAS is seeking to hire an Assistant Research Scientist, Archaeology to conduct analysis of archaeological materials and coordinate reporting among researchers for compliance with state and federal regulations concerning cultural resources.
Duties & Responsibilities Include:
Research and Reporting
- Analyze and interpret archaeological materials recovered during compliance projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation;
- Develop and implement question-based research designs;
- Review and edit archaeological technical, research, and other compliance reports;
- Coordinate archaeological analysis and reporting projects with the Special Projects, Transportation, Curation, and Historics section heads and Field Station Coordinators;
- Contribute to ISAS’ research output through grant applications, professional publications, and conference presentations.
Administration
- Coordinate multiple projects in various stages of completion among various staff and sections;
- Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to IDOT, ISAS and PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the general public.
- Contribute to project management and tracking project status in coordination with the section head.
- Manage specialized analyses within the survey and with consultants.
Other
- Conduct public engagement and educational activities that highlight the accomplishments of IDOT, ISAS, and PRI;
- Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois;
- Keep abreast of developments in the discipline.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. At least 3 years of professional experience in a Cultural Resource Management, academic, or government archaeological research environment with a Master's. Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations in relation to the management of archaeological cultural resources. Familiarity with pre-contact and post-contact history and material culture in the continental United States. Demonstrated ability to write and edit compliance archaeology reports. Familiarity with pre-contact and post contact history and material culture in the continental United States. Meets the Secretary of Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for archaeology (36 CFR Part 61). Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. Administrative experience in a university, state, federal, or non-governmental organization. Experience in forming and maintaining relationships with state, federal, and relevant non-governmental organizations. Familiarity with diverse analytical methods, GIS, and database software. Experience is supervising staff and coordinating research activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated knowledge of archaeological survey, testing, and data-recovery field procedures and completion of related compliance reports. Knowledge and experience with the Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended; and Section 4(f) of the Department of Transporation Act of 1966. Effective communication, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under minimal supervision in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Strong time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing projects independently but with shared goals and timetables. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The budgeted salary for this position is $65,000-$80,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Apply for this position by using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered.
Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jill Billerman at jrandell@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
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.
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.
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.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037959
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
Assistant Research Scientist, Archaeology
Illinois State Archaeology Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Prairie Research Institute (PRI), a research and service institute of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, houses five State Scientific Surveys covering a wide range of expertise, including biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology, and archaeology. PRI’s mission is to provide objective, integrated scientific research and services that allow citizens and decision-makers to make choices that ensure sustainable economic development, enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservation for the people, businesses, and across Illinois, the nation, and the world.
The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute. For 80 years, the University of Illinois has studied the state’s archaeological heritage. ISAS incorporates that knowledge in its programs to protect, preserve, and interpret these irreplaceable and non-renewable resources within the context of Illinois’ need to encourage and promote sustainable development.
ISAS is seeking to hire an Assistant Research Scientist, Archaeology to conduct analysis of archaeological materials and coordinate reporting among researchers for compliance with state and federal regulations concerning cultural resources.
Duties & Responsibilities Include:
Research and Reporting
- Analyze and interpret archaeological materials recovered during compliance projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation;
- Develop and implement question-based research designs;
- Review and edit archaeological technical, research, and other compliance reports;
- Coordinate archaeological analysis and reporting projects with the Special Projects, Transportation, Curation, and Historics section heads and Field Station Coordinators;
- Contribute to ISAS’ research output through grant applications, professional publications, and conference presentations.
Administration
- Coordinate multiple projects in various stages of completion among various staff and sections;
- Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to IDOT, ISAS and PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the general public.
- Contribute to project management and tracking project status in coordination with the section head.
- Manage specialized analyses within the survey and with consultants.
Other
- Conduct public engagement and educational activities that highlight the accomplishments of IDOT, ISAS, and PRI;
- Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois;
- Keep abreast of developments in the discipline.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. At least 3 years of professional experience in a Cultural Resource Management, academic, or government archaeological research environment with a Master's. Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations in relation to the management of archaeological cultural resources. Familiarity with pre-contact and post-contact history and material culture in the continental United States. Demonstrated ability to write and edit compliance archaeology reports. Familiarity with pre-contact and post contact history and material culture in the continental United States. Meets the Secretary of Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for archaeology (36 CFR Part 61). Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. Administrative experience in a university, state, federal, or non-governmental organization. Experience in forming and maintaining relationships with state, federal, and relevant non-governmental organizations. Familiarity with diverse analytical methods, GIS, and database software. Experience is supervising staff and coordinating research activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated knowledge of archaeological survey, testing, and data-recovery field procedures and completion of related compliance reports. Knowledge and experience with the Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended; and Section 4(f) of the Department of Transporation Act of 1966. Effective communication, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under minimal supervision in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Strong time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing projects independently but with shared goals and timetables. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The budgeted salary for this position is $65,000-$80,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Apply for this position by using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered.
Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jill Billerman at jrandell@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
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.
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.
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.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037959
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
See All 39 Research Scientist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Scientist JobsResearch Scientist Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Scientist Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- AbbVie11
- Tempus3
- Rush University Medical Center3
- University of Chicago2
- University of Illinois2
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Food & Beverage
- Technology & Software
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research scientist jobs across Illinois.
- PhD in a relevant scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or materials science
- Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publication in a recognized scientific journal
- Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software, or computational modeling tools
- Experience designing and executing independent research projects from hypothesis through results
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for presenting findings to cross-functional teams
- Ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams in a regulated or GLP-compliant environment
Research Scientist Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research scientist in Illinois?
Becoming a research scientist in Illinois typically requires at minimum a master's degree, though most industry and national laboratory roles require a PhD in a relevant field such as chemistry, biology, or engineering. Illinois does not issue a state license specifically for research scientists, so credentials are employer-driven. Building a publication record, completing postdoctoral work, and gaining experience at Illinois research institutions, universities, or industry labs are the standard paths to full research scientist roles.
Which companies hire research scientists in Illinois?
Employers hiring research scientists in Illinois right now include AbbVie, Tempus, and Rush University Medical Center, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Illinois's strong pharmaceutical and national laboratory presence means openings appear across both private industry and federally funded research centers throughout the state.
Which Illinois cities have the most research scientist jobs?
The Illinois cities with the most research scientist openings are Chicago, North Chicago, and Mendon. Chicago dominates due to its concentration of academic medical centers, biotech firms, and corporate research headquarters, while the northern suburbs around Lake County host major pharmaceutical campuses for companies like AbbVie and Abbott that generate consistent research hiring across disciplines.
Are there remote research scientist jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they are relatively rare. Research scientist work is often hands-on and lab-based, which limits full-remote arrangements. About 44% of research scientist openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those openings tend to favor computational, bioinformatics, or data-heavy research roles where wet lab access is not required.
How can I get hired as a research scientist in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a research associate or junior scientist role, which large Illinois employers like AbbVie, Abbott, and Argonne National Laboratory regularly post for candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant coursework. University of Chicago, Northwestern, and University of Illinois system labs also hire research technicians and lab coordinators who work alongside senior scientists. Completing a thesis-based graduate program, building hands-on lab skills in analytical chemistry or cell biology, and securing even one co-authored publication significantly strengthens an application for these entry-level positions.
Where can I find and apply to research scientist jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to research scientist jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings from employers across the state. Search the listings, find roles that match your background and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 39 Research Scientist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Scientist Jobs