Visiting Scientific Specialist, Vector Biology - INHS/PRI

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 expertise in 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 ensuring sustainable economic development, enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservation.

About the role

The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), one of PRI’s five Scientific Surveys, seeks a Visiting Scientific Specialist in Vector Biology to contribute to the research and surveillance activities of the Medical Entomology Laboratory. This in-person position focuses on the ecology, distribution, and taxonomy of vectors and vector-borne diseases, including mosquitoes, ticks, and biting midges.

Responsibilities

• 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, 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 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 the discipline.
• Complete all required administrative tasks, including documentation, compliance-related forms and training, certifications, leave reporting, and other tasks 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.

Physical Demands

• Work in adverse field conditions (e.g., heat, humidity, biting insects).
• Travel (including driving) throughout Illinois, working irregular hours and overnights.
• Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Fieldwork in both rural and urban settings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in entomology or a related field. Alternate degree fields may be considered based on experience.
• Minimum of one year of experience working with mosquitoes or ticks in field environments.
• Proficiency in vector taxonomy and high-throughput morphological species identifications.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in medical entomology or a related field.
• Experience with surveillance for arthropod vectors, including traps, drags, aquatic sampling, and host-based collections.
• Experience collaborating with and/or working for governmental agencies.

Skills

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Appropriate field and laboratory skills, as well as physical skills necessary for the work.
• Effective communication, collaboration, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and deadlines under minimal supervision.
• Proficiency in commonly employed software.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis, renewable annually contingent upon available funding and programmatic needs. The position may be converted to a regular appointment in the future, subject to funding and programmatic considerations. The start date is negotiable.

Pay

Budgeted salary of $50,100. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Life Insurance.
• Retirement Plan.
• Paid Time Off.
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.