Research Specialist

Research Specialist — Environmental Research and Innovation Center (ERIC)

Position Title: Research Specialist

Job Category: Academic Staff

Employment Type: Terminal (Fixed Term)

The Research Scientist works with the Environmental Research and Innovation Center (ERIC), supporting field research projects by conducting field sampling, preparing samples, and analyzing surface and drinking water samples. The role provides primary support for outreach programs in Wisconsin, mentors student interns, and assists the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin. Periodic project travel is required for field sampling and related activities.

• Provides operational guidance on day‑to‑day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers.
• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area; tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders.
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials.
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s); collects data and monitors test results.
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports.
• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences.

• Skillful proficiency in field sampling and environmental laboratory analysis of a wide range of samples.
• Knowledge of environmental sampling methods.
• Skillful proficiency in writing reports, editing reports, and submitting information electronically using online databases.
• Knowledge of MS Office software applications (e.g., Word, Excel).
• Knowledge of web software applications (e.g., Adobe Acrobat).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.

• Bachelor's degree in water resources, environmental science, environmental engineering, biology, or a related field.
• Ability to be approved as a driver by the Universities of Wisconsin.

• Demonstrated professional working or educational experience working with a variety of environmental laboratory analyses.
• Demonstrated professional working or educational experience with well water sampling and analysis techniques.
• Demonstrated professional working or educational experience with conducting field work.

Applicants must submit the following documents using the online application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Applicants must complete all required fields and attach all required documents prior to submitting the online application. Applications received by the end of the day on December 8, 2025, are ensured full consideration. After that date, applications may still be considered. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.

For questions regarding your application and additional options to apply, contact Human Resources at recruitment or 920‑424‑1166.

Reasonable Accommodations

UWO provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact hroffice or 920‑424‑1166. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.

Confidentiality of Applicant Materials

UWO is a State agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open Records Law. UWO will not, however, reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsin's Open Records law. In certain circumstances, the identities of "final candidates" and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.

CBC & Reference Check Policy

All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, work authorization, and verification…