Postdoctoral Research Associate
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 Postdoctoral Research Associate to manage statewide monitoring projects focused on furbearer populations. Responsibilities include overseeing camera trapping efforts on a rotating 5-year cycle, assisting with GPS collaring, conducting outreach on behalf of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), and supporting database and quantitative analysis work.
The primary piece of the statewide monitoring is a statewide camera trapping project that monitors sites annually on a 5-year rotation. As such, applicants should have an interest in camera trapping and public outreach, and the ability to work closely with a diverse group of collaborators. Applicants should have strong database management and a diverse quantitative skillset. The associate will work under the supervision of Max Allen and work with students, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, citizen scientists, and other researchers and faculty.
The in-person position is based in Champaign, Illinois, where the applicant will join an interdisciplinary community of researchers. Funding for this position is renewed on an annual cycle (July 1 to June 30), with funding currently secured through June 30, 2026. Funding for this project is expected to be renewed past June 30, 2026.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
- Manage a statewide camera trapping project, including fieldwork (placing and retrieving cameras), working with landowners (gaining site access and regularly communicating with them), and maintaining databases.
- Potentially participating in furbearer capture
- Maintain databases for camera trap and GPS collar data.
- Run quantitative analyses from surveys and databases on furbearer species.
- Compile the results into an annual technical report and peer-reviewed manuscripts, and give presentations at state, regional, and national conferences.
- Participate in community outreach and respond to requests for scientific/technical information.
- Participate in community outreach and service events, and mentor staff and students
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in wildlife ecology, natural resources, or related discipline, with a research interest in quantitative approaches.
- Strong quantitative analytical skills, including competence with statistical software packages such as JAGS.
- Proficiency in the use and creation of databases.
- Ability to write clearly and scientifically, with evidence of successful prior publications.
- Valid driver's license.
- Ability to work independently, collect and analyze field data, and coherently translate findings both verbally and in writing to granting agencies and to scientific and public communities.
- Experience with camera trapping and managing large camera trapping projects.
- Ability to work safely and independently in the field and ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Ability to apply analytical/scientific thinking to define and solve problems.
- Knowledge of the fauna of Illinois and the Midwestern U.S., including endangered and threatened species and common game species.
- Effective communication, collaboration, personal relations, and teamwork skills.
- Interest in working with graduate and undergraduate students.
- Interest in mammal ecology, including urban ecology.
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 also considering internal equity. The preferred start date is December 16, 2025, but no later than January 2026.
Application Procedures and Deadline Information
To ensure full consideration, applications should be received by September 30, 2025; however, the position will remain open until it is filled.
To apply, please email 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position, 2) a CV, and 3) the names and contact information (including e-mail addresses) of three professional references to Max Allen at maxallen@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, 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.