Assistant Research Scientist, Vector Ecology
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 a Vector Ecologist to administer research activities of the Survey by planning, directing, and conducting basic and applied research on ecology and evolution of phytoplasmas (plant-pathogenic bacteria) and their hemipteran insect vectors. This position will be based in Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct research on ecology and evolution of phytoplasmas and their insect vectors.
- Screen insects and plant tissues for the presence of phytoplasmas.
- Identify phytoplasmas based on DNA sequence data.
- Identify potential phytoplasma vectors using available keys and taxonomic literature.
- Conduct statistical analysis.
- Identify relevant research needs and project opportunities.
- Develop research collaborations with partners from other agencies, institutions, or organizations.
- Lead the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as present results of research at scientific meetings.
- Provide necessary information to public constituents, research associates, and collaborating research agencies.
- Contribute to the development of project reports.
- Provide recommendations to funding agencies, collaborators, and other interested parties.
- Assemble data to be utilized in technical reports.
- Supervise, train, mentor, and lead undergraduate students, graduate students, and hourly workers 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 and travel approval.
- Prioritize, organize, and plan to ensure projects move forward in a timely manner.
- Train staff and students in field sampling, specimen preparation and identification, molecular laboratory procedures, and data analysis.
- Seek and secure external funding through the preparation of proposals and grant applications to maintain a robust research program.
- Oversee administration of grants including budgeting, reporting, and other co-PI duties.
- 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.
- Coordinate and cooperate with the Survey, PRI, University of Illinois, and other groups.
- Attend conferences.
- Represent the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois on committees and outreach activities.
Additional Physical Demands
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.
Minimum Qualifications
Ph.D. in Entomology, Ecology, or related field. Alternate degree fields may be considered depending on the nature and depth of experience as it relates to this position. A minimum of 5 years of experience in field and laboratory research. Demonstrated experience and record of frequent publication on ecology and evolution of phytoplasmas and their insect vectors. Valid driver’s license, basic laboratory safety training.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated ability to obtain extramural funding in support of work on phytoplasma ecology and evolution.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of recent literature on phytoplasma biology, classification, and host (plant and insect) associations. Proficient in the use of standard methods for screening insect and plant tissues for presence of phytoplasmas and for classifying/identifying phytoplasmas based on DNA sequence data. Proficient in identifying potential phytoplasma vectors (hemipteran insects) using available keys and taxonomic literature and familiarity with current classification of vascular plants. Demonstrated knowledge and experience using current methods for phylogenetic analysis of multi-locus DNA sequence data, demonstrate proficiency in parametric and non-parametric statistical analysis (e.g., decision tree, multivariate analyses such as principal component analysis, clustering, neural networks) and probabilistic approaches using R, and ability to extract summarize and disseminate data using relational database management systems. 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.
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 commensurate with education, experience, and skill.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by May 30, 2023. Apply for this position at https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/6456?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 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.
