Visiting Scientific Specialist, Vector Biology - INHS​/PRI

Visiting Scientific Specialist, Vector Biology, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute

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 services 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.

The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), one of the five Scientific Surveys housed by the Prairie Research Institute, is seeking a Visiting Scientific Specialist in the area of Vector Biology, who will contribute to the research and surveillance activities of the Survey's Medical Entomology Laboratory by contributing to basic and applied research on various aspects of the ecology, distribution and taxonomy of vectors and vector-borne diseases, including mosquitoes, ticks and biting midges.

This is an in-person opportunity with the ability to be on site on a regular basis.

• Plan and conduct statewide field operations in Illinois related to vector surveillance projects including obtaining collection permits, performing field collections, and training and leading field crews and hourly technicians.
• Assist with sample processing and taxonomic identifications.
• Contribute to field and lab studies on vector ecology, behavior, and/or control.
• Manage data sets and assist with analyzing and preparing summaries from field and organismal data.
• Develop and improve taxonomic resources (images, keys, checklists, voucher specimens and teaching collections, genetic resources) and train seasonal workers in identifications.
• Prepare material for internal reports and reports to sponsoring agencies.
• Develop and deliver annual results reports for research sites and stakeholders.
• Contribute to or lead the publication of results of original research in peer‑reviewed professional journals.
• Contribute to the areas of education and outreach to the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the State of Illinois. Enhance the reputation of the survey and PRI at the state, national, and international levels.
• Collaborate with Survey scientists, University of Illinois faculty, and external colleagues to provide integrated interpretations and applications to existing and new research programs.
• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
• Complete all required administrative tasks, including but not limited to documentation, compliance‑related forms and training, certifications, leave reporting, and other tasks as assigned or required, accurately and within established deadlines.
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.

Will require working in adverse field conditions (e.g., heat, humidity, biting insects) and travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois, working irregular hours and overnights; lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Fieldwork will occur in both rural and urban settings.

Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position.

Bachelor's degree in entomology or a related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of experience as it relates to this position. A minimum of one year of experience working with mosquitoes or ticks in field environments. Well‑versed in vector taxonomy and able to perform high‑throughput morphological species identifications. Valid driver's license.

Master's degree in medical entomology or a related field. Experience with any, or preferably all, aspects of surveillance…