Position Description and Application Information
Visiting Scientific Specialist, Soils & Disease Research
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 Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. To learn more visit https://go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking a Visiting Scientific Specialist to administer research activities of the Survey by assisting with fieldwork, laboratory work, and other research tasks related to soil sampling. This position will be based in Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Process and transport soil samples.
- Assist with testing, storage, and organization of biological samples.
- Provide general laboratory maintenance and upkeep.
- Operate under Biosafety Level 2 Conditions.
- Conduct soil sampling in Northern Illinois.
- Record, transcribe, and store collected data.
- Prepare scientific reports for funding agencies and contribute to scientific manuscripts, popular articles, and conference presentations.
- 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 this discipline.
Additional Physical Demands
Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), traveling (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights; and lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Will require working in a lab environment. Lab safety equipment use is required. May require standing and stationary positions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in ecology, environmental sciences, biology, or related field. Alternate degree fields may be considered depending on the nature and depth of experience as it relates to this position. Experience conducting biology or ecology-related fieldwork. Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience handling biological or environmental samples in a laboratory setting. Biosafety Level 2 measures and chemical safety.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organization, 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. Familiarity with Microsoft Software (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
Appointment Information
This is a full-time, visiting academic professional, grant-supported position. The current end date for this position is August 31, 2024, however, this position may be extended subject to the continued availability of funding and programmatic need. This position may become a regular, non-visiting position later depending on funding and programmatic need. The starting salary is $50,000 and the proposed start date is October 16, 2023.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by October 4, 2023. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through this website 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 Jameson Mori at jmori@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: 1020498
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
