The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) and its five constituent surveys—the Illinois Natural History Survey, Illinois State Archaeological Survey, Illinois State Geological Survey, Illinois Sustainable Technology Center, and Illinois State Water Survey—serve the state of Illinois and beyond by providing rigorous, objective scientific research, data, and expertise to help understand, manage, and protect our essential natural resources. With around 600 full-time staff, PRI is one of the largest research institutes at the University of Illinois.

PRI is based in Champaign-Urbana, a diverse, affordable, micro-urban community. Learn more about Champaign-Urbana. 

U. of I. HR provides more information about applying to and working at the University of Illinois, including available benefits.

If you have questions about any PRI open positions or the application process, contact a member of our human resources team:

  • Postdoctoral Research Associate - Spatial Epidemiology - Application Deadline: November 20, 2026

    The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), one of the five Scientific Surveys housed by the Prairie Research Institute, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate who will work to promote an understanding of disease epidemiology using a spatial analysis framework. 

    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. 

  • Fisheries and Aquatic Ecology Field & Lab Tech (Hourly)

    The Lake Michigan Biological Station, which is part of the Illinois Natural History Survey, is seeking technicians to participate in daily research activities related to monitoring yellow perch population dynamics, nearshore fish assemblages, benthic invertebrate and zooplankton resources, biological community assessment of nearshore artificial reefs, and sport fish harvest dynamics along the Illinois shoreline of Lake Michigan.

    This position will be located at the Lake Michigan Biological Station in Zion, IL. Fieldwork will also occur in various locations throughout Cook County and Lake County, IL.