The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), a public research university located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, offers a diverse array of job opportunities for academics, researchers, and professionals. As part of the University of Illinois system, UIC is classified as an R1 research university, meaning it has very high research activity. This status attracts top talent seeking research jobs and faculty positions in higher education. With over 34,000 students and 16 colleges, UIC's urban campus provides roles in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and public health.
Jobs at UIC range from tenure-track faculty positions to administrative roles, postdoctoral fellowships, and staff support in research labs. The university's commitment to innovation and community engagement makes it an appealing destination for those pursuing careers in higher ed jobs. Whether you're interested in teaching undergraduates, leading cutting-edge research, or managing university operations, UIC has positions that align with various career stages.
Established in 1965 through the merger of several institutions, including the University of Illinois College of Medicine and the Chicago Undergraduate Division, UIC has evolved into a powerhouse for academic employment. Its growth mirrors Chicago's dynamic urban environment, with expansions in research facilities and colleges over the decades. By the 1980s, UIC had become a key player in biomedical research, leading to increased demand for specialized faculty and researchers.
Today, UIC employs over 13,000 faculty and staff, with job growth tied to federal grants and state funding. Historical milestones, such as the development of the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum and leadership in HIV/AIDS research in the 1990s, have shaped its reputation for impactful roles. Prospective employees can find stability in a university that has consistently ranked among the top public universities for research expenditures, exceeding $400 million annually in recent years.
UIC's 16 colleges offer specialized jobs tailored to their strengths. The College of Medicine is a leader in clinical research, hiring physicians and scientists for roles in neurology and oncology. The College of Engineering seeks experts in bioengineering and computer science, while the Liautaud Graduate School of Business recruits for tenure-track positions in finance and management.
Other notable areas include the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for humanities faculty and the School of Public Health for epidemiologists. These colleges frequently post openings for lecturers and professors, especially in interdisciplinary programs like urban planning, reflecting Chicago's cityscape.
Understanding the variety of jobs at University of Illinois at Chicago is essential for job seekers. Faculty positions include assistant, associate, and full professors, often requiring teaching and research. Postdoctoral researchers support principal investigators on grants, while research assistants handle lab work. Administrative roles cover HR, finance, and student services. For a full breakdown, explore university job types.
UIC also hires clinical faculty for its hospital affiliations and adjuncts for part-time teaching. Staff positions in IT and facilities support the campus's operations.
To help navigate UIC jobs, here are key terms:
Academic qualifications vary by role but are rigorous at UIC. Faculty positions typically require a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., MD for medical roles) in the relevant field from an accredited institution. For lecturer jobs, a master's degree with significant teaching experience suffices. Research assistants often need a bachelor's or master's, while senior research roles demand a PhD.
Administrative positions in higher ed admin jobs may require a bachelor's plus experience, or advanced degrees for leadership like deans. UIC values credentials from top programs, aligning with its research-intensive environment.
UIC's research priorities shape job requirements. Expertise in translational medicine, urban health disparities, and sustainable engineering is highly sought. The university leads in NIH-funded projects, so familiarity with federal grants is key. Emerging areas include AI in healthcare and climate resilience, given Chicago's location.
Candidates should demonstrate expertise through prior work in labs or publications in journals like Nature or JAMA.
Employers at UIC prefer candidates with 3-5 years of postdoctoral experience for assistant professor roles, multiple peer-reviewed publications (10+ for tenure-track), and grant success (e.g., NIH R01 awards). Teaching experience, such as leading courses or mentoring, is crucial. Industry collaborations or community outreach in Chicago enhances applications.
Essential skills for UIC jobs include grant writing, data analysis (Python, SPSS), interdisciplinary teamwork, and public speaking. Soft skills like adaptability in a diverse urban setting and leadership in labs are vital. For clinical roles, patient interaction and ethical research conduct stand out.
The application process for UIC jobs starts with online submission via the university's portal or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Prepare a CV highlighting publications, a research statement (2-3 pages), teaching philosophy, and three letters of recommendation.
Tips:
UIC champions diversity through the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, with programs like the Faculty Diversity Initiative recruiting underrepresented minorities. The STRIVE program supports women in STEM, and the President's Award recognizes inclusive teaching. UIC's demographics reflect Chicago: 50% underrepresented minorities among students, extending to faculty hiring goals. Affinity groups for LGBTQ+ and veterans aid retention.
UIC fosters work-life balance with 24 days annual leave, parental leave (up to 8 weeks), and EAP counseling. The campus features gyms, childcare, and proximity to Chicago's museums, parks, and transit. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every 6 years, flexible hours for researchers, and events like Flame the Flame Day. Urban perks include Lake Michigan access and cultural festivals, balancing rigorous academics with vibrant city life.
Jobs at University of Illinois at Chicago offer rewarding careers in a dynamic research environment. Explore more higher ed jobs, career advice via higher ed career advice, university jobs listings, or post your opening at post a job. Check related insights like employer branding secrets and become a university lecturer for success tips. UIC's commitment to excellence makes it ideal for advancing your academic journey.
