Conservation Research Coordinator - Resource

Title:

Conservation Research Coordinator - Dolomite Prairie and Slag Restoration

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Department: Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action

Reports to: Conservation Scientist

Resource, working approximately 10‑15 hours per week (anticipated one year term position with the possibility of renewal based on program funding)

Supervises: Volunteers, students

Resource employees of the Chicago Botanic Garden are eligible for the following benefits:

• Wellness initiative benefit, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Retirement plan
• Garden membership - free to employees at Household Plus level
• Discounts to Garden Shop, Cafe, Garden-sponsored educational classes
• Employee events such as Orchid show, Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns, Lightscape employee & friends preview night

We are seeking a Conservation Research Coordinator to join the Negaunee Institute's conservation science team at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This is a one-year, hourly resource position (with the possibility of renewal) beginning in July 2026. The coordinator will work closely with Chicago Botanic Garden scientists and partners at the Chicago Park District and Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie on restoration and research projects focused on rare dolomite prairie habitats and urban slag landscapes.

This multi-year project investigates the ecology, community structure, and restoration of exposed alkaline substrate habitats, including remnant dolomite prairies and former industrial slag deposits. These habitats support a unique assemblage of native and rare species and provide an opportunity to develop science-based approaches for restoration and management. The coordinator will assist with field and laboratory research, project coordination, data management and analysis, report and manuscript preparation, and education and outreach activities.

The coordinator will also contribute to other ongoing projects within the conservation science program as appropriate.

The overarching goal of this project is to work with land managers to restore and recreate rare Illinois habitats while developing best practices for the conservation and establishment of native plant communities. Results from this work will directly inform restoration planning, species reintroductions, and long-term stewardship of these unique ecosystems.

• Coordinate and supervise field technicians, students, and volunteers
• Plan and conduct vegetation, pollinator, and habitat surveys
• Conduct GIS mapping and spatial analyses
• Design and implement seed germination and establishment experiments
• Manage, analyze, and visualize ecological data
• Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations
• Develop and participate in education and outreach activities
• Assist with general laboratory and research operations

• 2+ years research experience in ecology/evolution, environmental science, and/or related areas
• Has (or will have by start date) a Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, entomology, evolution, conservation, and/or related fields
• Experience in coordinating a field team and/or mentorship of students
• Interest in the natural history of plants, restoration, and/or urban environments
• Experience working in both laboratory and field settings
• A valid driver's license with a good driving record
• The ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively to coordinate research activities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Proficiency in R for ecological data analysis and visualization
• Experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS or QGIS)
• Experience identifying Midwestern flora and/or pollinators
• Experience preparing scientific reports, publications, or presentations
• Experience with restoration ecology, seed biology, or conservation research

This position will require office, lab, and field work, some of which will not be at the Chicago Botanic Garden. All field locations are in the greater Chicago region. During summer, the majority of time for this position will be spent outside in potentially physically demanding conditions. Standing,…