Visiting Scientific Specialist, Botany - INHS​/PRI

Visiting Scientific Specialist, Botany 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.

Remote and Hybrid work options may be available for this position, with the ability to be on-site as needed per the University's Workplace Flexibility policy.

• Collect and organize vegetation and seed dispersal survey data and prepare results for inclusion in technical reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Assist with analyses on vegetation and seed dispersal surveys.
• Conduct plant community mapping.
• Assist with aerial imagery (drone) surveys.
• Summarize results into written form for reports, GIS maps, and other outlets.
• Collect and verify plant material (seeds, sterile and fertile plants).
• Interface with scientists and agency staff to coordinate effective communication and presentation of data and progress reports.
• Work with project PIs to provide scientific and technical information in reports, at speaking engagements, in outreach events, and to internal committees.
• Manage social media and Coast Snap station coordination.
• Conduct, organize, and attend stakeholder meetings and presentations.
• Supervise hourly staff. This may include task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback and travel approval.
• Perform other administrative duties relevant to this position.
• Ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
• Complete administrative requirements, such as documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline

Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.). Ability to move, lift, and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.

Will require travel (including overnight stays and driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois, working irregular hours.

Bachelor's degree in botany, plant ecology, or a related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Experience with community- or landscape-level plant data collection and analysis. Experience with Midwestern flora (including wetlands and Great Lakes coastal vegetation) and plant identification methods (e.g., dichotomous key). Experience processing and analyzing GIS data and with mapping techniques.

Demonstrated record of independent project management and completing assigned tasks in an accurate, efficient, and timely manner, both with minimal supervision and in team settings. Experience translating research findings to agencies, technicians, the scientific community, and the general public. Valid Driver's license and ability to meet requirements for a drone pilot license.

Previous experience working with other…