Postdoctoral Research Associate 
Wildlife Genetics

Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute 
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 

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 services 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 communities across Illinois, the nation, and the world. 

The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), one of the five Scientific Surveys housed by the Prairie Research Institute, is seeking up to two Postdoctoral Research Associates who will administer research activities of the Survey by developing, planning, coordinating, and conducting research and laboratory work related to wildlife genetics. 

 This is an in-person opportunity with the ability to be on site on a regular basis. This position is located on the U of I Campus in Champaign, Illinois. 

Why Work at the Prairie Research Institute?

Highlights of Employee Benefits

Duties & Responsibilities: 
The postdocs will conduct genetics-related research with Dr. Nohra Mateus Pinilla (Veterinary Epidemiologist) and Dr. Jameson Mori (Assistant Research Scientist) from the Illinois Natural History Survey at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, as well as members of the Wildlife Veterinary Epidemiology Laboratory (https://publish.illinois.edu/wildlifevetlab) and other research scientists, students, and hourly employees of the Survey.  

Project-specific tasks include, but are not limited to: 

• Conduct research on genetics in wildlife
• Manage data pertaining to genetic sampling. 
• Manage research-related tasks and conduct laboratory and field duties under laboratory biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) conditions
• Manage and handle frozen and fresh tissues according to biosafety protocols. 
• Coordinate logistics and participate in efforts associated with DNA sequencing. 
• Disseminate research findings to the scientific community, management agencies, and the public through presentations at professional meetings, manuscripts, and public outreach activities. 
• Respond to requests for scientific/technical information and communicate effectively with collaborators.
• Ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
• Assist in training and mentorship of graduate and undergraduate student partners
• Complete administrative requirements, such as documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines. 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Ph.D. (within the last 10 years or by the start date) in Genetics, Pathobiology, Epidemiology, or another related field. 
• Experience in molecular genetics work, including use of techniques/technologies such as PCR and DNA extraction and sequencing. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in PCR, DNA extraction, and sequencing. 
• Previous genetics work associated with antimicrobial resistance
• Strong scientific communication skills, including preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for scientific, management, and conservation audiences. 
• Ability to work independently, analyze complex datasets, and translate scientific findings into actionable management recommendations for granting agencies, scientific audiences, and the public, both orally and in writing. 
• Capacity for teamwork and to maintain productive working relationships with partners and to contribute scientific expertise in meetings, workshops, and peer review. 
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Valid driver's license. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The ability to disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and presentations to a variety of audiences is essential. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a 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.

Environmental Demands

Will require working in a lab environment.  Lab safety equipment use is required.   May require standing and stationary positions. Ability to wear protective gear and clothing, including gloves and safety glasses, and follow detailed "clean" techniques in a clean laboratory environment. May require lifting items up to 40 pounds to waist height. No consumption of food or beverages is allowed in designated laboratory areas.  

Appointment Information
This is a full-time, 100% Postdoctoral Research Associate position. The budgeted salary is $60,000 and is commensurate with education, experience, and skill, while considering internal equity. This position has secured funding through June 30, 2028. The position may be extended contingent on continued funding and programmatic need. 

The preferred start date is as soon as possible.   

This position is unable to support sponsorship for work authorization.  

Application Procedures & Deadline Information
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by October 31, 2026. However, the search will remain open, and applications will continue to be accepted and reviewed until the position(s) are filled. To apply, please e-mail 1) cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV, and 3) the names and contact information (including e-mail addresses) of three professional references to Jameson Mori (jmori@illinois.edu) with the subject line “Genetics Research”.  

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. 

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid Time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

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, 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. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.