Senior Scientific Specialist, Aquatic 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. To learn more visit go.illinois.edu/PRIjob.
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking an Aquatic Ecologist to conduct basic and applied research assisting with ongoing surveys for aquatic amphibians and reptiles, freshwater mollusks, and fishes that are threatened, endangered, and Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and assist with planning and analysis of research studies associated with the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority. This position will be based in Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Plan, lead, and conduct surveys for aquatic amphibians and reptiles, freshwater mollusks, and fishes.
- Periodically conduct large-scale freshwater turtle trapping in the Des Plaines River Valley.
- Assist taxonomic experts with freshwater mollusk and fish research.
- Coordinate and collaborate with other lab experts on related projects.
- Plan fieldwork to be cost and logistically effective.
- Secure appropriate approvals and permits to conduct fieldwork.
- Create and maintain working relationships with State, Federal, and University partners.
- Conduct data analysis using appropriate statistical methods.
- Conduct spatial data analyses using GIS, remote sensing, and spatial methods.
- Translate scientific data into reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations to be delivered at conferences and professional meetings.
- Supervise, mentor, and lead hourly staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at the individual and organizational levels, including task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, and travel approval.
- Prioritize, organize, and plan to ensure projects move forward on time.
- Perform necessary administrative tasks associated with this position.
- Ensure facilities and equipment are properly maintaining, grant and contract obligations are fulfilled, and data quality assurance standards are met.
- Purchase and maintain field equipment and supplies needed for projects.
- Seek external funding for research projects and contribute to externally funded projects with colleagues at the Survey, PRI, and outside agencies.
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of communications and developments in this
- Represent the Survey, PRI, and University of Illinois on committees.
Additional Physical Demands
Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting/stinging insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights. Overnight and extended stay travel will be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position, particularly during the active season of amphibians and reptiles. Lifting, carrying, and hiking equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. will be necessary.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s in biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience related to this position. A minimum of two years of planning and leading fieldwork. Advanced-level experience with R and ArcGIS analytical platforms with a breadth of analytical ecological modeling tools. Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or related field. Supervisory experience, including training and oversight of employees. A minimum of three years of experience leading fieldwork, predominately with aquatic amphibians and reptiles, freshwater mollusks, and fishes. R Analytical and ArcGIS Certifications.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Working taxonomic knowledge of midwestern aquatic amphibians and reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, or a combination of at least two. Strong working knowledge of sampling methods for above taxa and designs. Proficiency in GIS (e.g., ArcGIS) and Microsoft Office (e.g., MS Word and Excel). Proficiency in statistical analysis and model building (e.g., using programming language R). Proven record of written and oral dissemination of scientific results, project management, and effective time management skills. Must be capable of operating large 4WD pickup trucks. 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. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after January 1, 2023. Salary is commensurate with experience.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by December 12, 2022. Apply for this position here https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/2206?c=illinois 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 Dr. Michael Dreslik at dreslik@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.
