Associate Research Scientist, Wetland Science
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
Illinois is a world leader in research, teaching, and public engagement. We serve the state, the nation, and the world by creating knowledge, preparing students for lives of impact, and addressing critical societal needs through the transfer and application of knowledge. Illinois is the place where we embrace differences. We embrace it because we value it. Illinois is especially interested in candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the Illinois community.
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 service 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. Learn more at https://go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs.
Why Work at the Prairie Research Institute?
Highlights of Employee Benefits
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), which 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, is seeking an Associate Wetland Scientist who will contribute and manage all activities of the Wetland Science Program (WSP) within the Illinois Natural History Survey. This position will be based in Champaign, IL.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Supervise and lead staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels. This includes task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, career development planning, leave/travel approval, as well as conducting annual performance reviews.
- Participate in negotiations to establish multi-year agreements that govern long-term relationships with sponsors.
- Perform quality assurance/quality control through reviewing data and reports.
- Oversee and manage all fieldwork activities associated with sponsored research
- Oversee the management and growth of WSP databases
- Ensure safety throughout the WSP.
- Serve as principal investigator leading projects to ensure that contract reports and deliverables are met.
- Conduct environmental surveys and assessments, particularly focusing on wetlands, wetland delineations, and wetland mitigation/restoration.
- Prepare scientific reports for funding agencies or publication in professional journals.
- Conduct independent research, publish and present results at professional meetings within the constraints of contract obligations.
- Assist state/federal agencies and the public/private sectors with requested field research assistance and as contract obligations allow.
- Participate in outreach and education events that further the mission of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Represent the WSP, INHS, PRI, and sponsor agency at meetings and other venues in areas of expertise, particularly wetland science.
- Participate in Survey, PRI, and outside scientific organizations.
- Participate in committee service within INHS and PRI.
- Respond to requests in areas of expertise, particularly wetlands science.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the INHS, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in appropriate biological sciences. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth as it relates to this position. A minimum of 8 years of experience conducting research in Wetland Science or Botany. Experience with Illinois native plant communities, including threatened and endangered species and natural areas. Previous experience engaging in research that includes field and laboratory observations, analysis of data, and preparation of publication for recognized journals. Experience leading and supervising research projects. Experience with interpreting wetland regulations and interacting with the associated authoritative agencies (state and federal). Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in appropriate biological sciences. Minimum of two years of previous experience conducting research and administrative work as part of the Wetland Sciences group within the Illinois Natural History Survey.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated strong leadership and administrative skills. Demonstrated ability to manage and oversee all aspects of a large research program, including management of finances, personnel, and research activities. Strong written and verbal skills and demonstrated proficiency in translating research findings in reports and presentations. 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.
Environmental Demands
Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights; lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. The work of this position takes place in an office setting. The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The starting salary is $80,000 and is commensurate with education, experience, and skill. The start date is negotiable.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on July 5, 2024 Apply for this position at https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/10991?c=illinois by 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 Wendy Schelsky at schelsky@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 requirements, 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.
