Position Description and Application Information
Scientific Specialist, Aquatic Invasive Species
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) investigates and documents the biological resources of Illinois and other areas and acquires and provides natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources. INHS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking an Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist to develop and conduct basic and applied research with an emphasis on improving the effectiveness of scientific outreach for Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). This position will be based out of the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct research into pathways of AIS introductions in the southern Lake Michigan region, particularly surrounding Organisms in Trade (OIT) and recreational water users.
- Design and implement surveys to collect data on stakeholder knowledge and behaviors regarding AIS prevention.
- Gather, compile, and analyze survey data for reporting and research projects.
- Contribute to reports for funding agencies.
- Present research findings at local, regional, and international meetings.
- Develop and conduct outreach activities and events to benefit the mission and visibility of the Survey, PRI, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, and University of Illinois.
- Design outreach materials for the AIS program and disseminate them to various stakeholder groups.
- Implement and manage social media and other educational marketing campaigns for the AIS program.
- Coordinate and cooperate with the Survey, PRI, University of Illinois, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, and other groups.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of developments in AIS research and outreach.
Additional Physical Demands
The work of this position primarily takes place in an office setting. The work is sedentary and involves extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions for data entry. Frequent travel to local and regional events is likely. Events may occur outside of normal working hours (e.g., evenings, weekends) and involve extended periods of remaining stationary and sometimes outdoor and inclement conditions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, aquatic ecology, zoology, or closely related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience at it relates to this position. Experience in and comfort with communicating using multiple mediums (e.g., social media, website content, in-person). Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with outreach. Experience with presenting at conferences or in public and professional settings.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases (e.g., Microsoft Office).
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis, renewable annually based upon satisfactory progress in the position and continuation of funding. The start date is negotiable, and the starting salary is $47,000.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on June 13, 2023. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this 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 Katherine O’Reilly at keo@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
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, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, 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. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1017582
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
