Visiting Assistant Research Scientist, Large River Ecology
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), a leader in investigating and preserving biological resources in Illinois and beyond, is seeking a Large River Ecologist who will evaluate invasive carp attractions and use of a fish movement system/ladder to identify conditions necessary to pass native and invasive fish.
This position is based in Havana, Illinois, at the Illinois River Biological Station. Remote or Hybrid work options may be available for this position, with the ability to be on-site as needed per the University’s Workplace Flexibility policy.
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.
As a Large River Ecologist, you will,
- Coordinate and design fish ladder evaluation for invasive carp and native fish species.
- Once conditions are identified to promote invasive carp and native fish passage, test design at strategic locations, and explore utility and implementation of AI identification and sorting technologies.
- Work closely with and coordinate efforts between state, federal, and University partners associated with the project.
- Analyze data, synthesize results, and write annual technical reports and multiple manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Present results of data analysis in annual technical reports and manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Disseminate research findings to management agencies, the scientific community, and the public through presentations at professional meetings, public outreach activities, and written reports.
- Ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
- Respond to requests for scientific/technical information and communicate effectively with collaborators.
- Participate in community outreach and service events, and mentor hourly staff.
- Assist with proposal development and fostering and implementing new research ideas with the field station director.
- Supervise, mentor, and lead 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.
- 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.
Minimum Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries, Statistics, Ecological Statistics, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position.
- Experience modeling ecological data and familiarity or experience conducting field and laboratory research on invasive fish, fish passage, large rivers, or other large aquatic systems.
- Experience conducting research related to fish passage and familiarity with invasive fish/carp management, especially in relation to large rivers or other large freshwater ecosystems.
- Experience with R or SAS statistical software and its application to ecological-based statistics.
- Experience analyzing data and writing.
- Valid Driver’s License
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing and analyzing large data sets.
- Experience driving boats on rivers or other large bodies of water.
- Previous experience as a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Illinois River Biological Station at the Illinois Natural History Survey.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong analytical skills and strong proficiency with R or SAS statistical software and its application to ecological-based statistics.
- Must be able to write clearly and scientifically as demonstrated through prior publications.
- Must possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to apply analytical/scientific thinking to define and solve problems.
- Ability to work independently, collect and analyze field data, and coherently communicate findings (verbally and in writing) to scientific and public communities.
- 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 Microsoft Office, R or comparable platforms, GIS, and other commonly used software is required.
Environmental Demands
The work of this position takes place in an office setting. The work is sedentary and involves sitting for extended periods working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions for data entry. Will require working in a lab environment. Lab safety equipment use is required. May require standing and stationary positions. Occasional overnight travel may occur.
Appointment Information
This is a full-time, Visiting Academic Professional Appointment. The start date is negotiable, and the budgeted salary for this position is $65,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. This position may become regular at a later date, depending on funding and programmatic need.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on September 12, 2025. Apply for this position at https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/15078?c=illinois&sq=1032530 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 Jim Lamer at lamer@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.
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 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.