Postdoctoral Research Associate
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
Illinois is a world leader in research, teaching, and public engagement. We serve the state, the nation, and the world by creating knowledge, preparing students for lives of impact, and addressing critical societal needs through the transfer and application of knowledge. Illinois is the place where we embrace differences. We embrace it because we value it. Illinois is especially interested in candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the Illinois community.
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.
Why Work at the Prairie Research Institute?
Highlights of Employee Benefits
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), which 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, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to assist with studying the diversification of North American minnows. The project is funded by the National Science Foundation, and the objective is to combine genomics, phylogenomics, biogeography, and comparative phylogenetic methods to gain insights into the evolution and diversification of North American minnows. This position will be based in Champaign, IL.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Coordinate with project collaborators on sample transfer, and assist with inventorying, databasing, and managing incoming samples
- Lead the extraction and quantification of DNA, and prepare libraries of genomic data
- Plan and lead field expeditions in the United States to collect samples and contribute to the identification and preservation of samples for deposition in the INHS fish collection
- Work closely and coordinate efforts between collaborative partners associated with the project
- Write code, analyze data, synthesize results, and lead the preparation of multiple manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Assist in training and mentorship of graduate and undergraduate student partners
- Disseminate research findings to the scientific community, management agencies, and general public through presentations at professional meetings, manuscripts, and public outreach activities
- 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 staff
- Keep abreast of developments in this discipline
- Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois
Minimum Qualifications
- Ph.D. (within the last 10 years or by the start date) in evolutionary biology, ichthyology, or related discipline, with a research interest in bioinformatics.
- Strong quantitative analytical skills, competence with R and/or Linux command-line interface, and writing and troubleshooting code, preferably including experience in phylogenomics and/or comparative phylogenetic methods.
- Ability to write clearly and scientifically, with evidence of successful publications.
- Possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Ability to apply analytical/scientific thinking to define and solve problems.
- Ability to work independently, analyze data, and coherently translate findings both verbally and in writing to granting agencies and to scientific and public communities.
- Effective communication, collaboration, personal relations, and teamwork skills.
- Valid driver's license.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated strong leadership and administrative skills. Demonstrated ability to manage and oversee all aspects of a large research program, including management of finances, personnel, and research activities. Strong written and verbal skills and demonstrated proficiency in translating research findings into reports and presentations. 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 commonly employed software and databases.
Environmental Demands
Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. May require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the United States working irregular hours and overnights; lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. The work of this position takes place in an office and lab setting. The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate Position. The starting salary is $60,000 and is commensurate with education, experience, and skill. The start date is negotiable. Funding for the position is guaranteed for two years.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
For full consideration, applications must be received by October 1, 2024, however, applications will be reviewed as they come in and interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date. To apply, please e-mail 1) a 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 Dr. Milton Tan miltont@illinois.edu.
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 requirements, 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.
