The Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as the next Director of the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS). Based in Champaign, Illinois, the Director will guide a renowned team of scientists, researchers, and professionals dedicated to advancing geoscience research and addressing critical natural resource and environmental challenges.  This dual-role position offers a unique opportunity to direct strategic initiatives, lead groundbreaking research, and influence the future of geoscience through high-impact research and statewide service.  

For more than 120 years, the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) has advanced Illinois’ environmental quality, economic development, and public safety through accurate, objective earth science research and information. As Director of ISGS, you will build on this legacy by providing strategic leadership for a statewide scientific enterprise, guiding policy, strengthening outreach and engagement, and overseeing more than 130 scientists and staff, while also developing an independent, high-impact research program as a Principal Research Scientist. The Director could also serve, or be eligible to serve, as the Illinois State Geologist. 

We are seeking up to three motivated individuals to participate in and support original research and technology development in one or more areas of carbon capture & utilization, critical materials recovery, and the beneficial utilization of waste materials. Responsibilities include participating in laboratory and bench-scale experiments and analytical characterization to evaluate new materials and processes, assisting in the assembly and troubleshooting of experimental setups, analyzing experimental data, supporting modeling efforts, performing literature searches, as well as preparing reports and documentation.