at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois, United States Job Description 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. As a Visiting Scientific Specialist, you will, 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. Physical Demands 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. Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. Minimum Qualifications 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. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in medical entomology or a related field. Experience with any, or preferably all, aspects of surveillance for arthropod vectors, including traps, drags, aquatic sampling, and host-based collections. Experience collaborating with and/or working for governmental agencies. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Detail-oriented and strong organizational skills. Possess appropriate field and laboratory skills, as well as physical skills necessary to carry out work. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent 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, and the budgeted salary is $50,100. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. This position is unable to support sponsorship for work authorization. Application Procedures & Deadline Information Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 31, 2026. 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//jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Dr. Christopher Stone at cstone@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137. At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive. Champaign-Urbana Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents. The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID:

1037599

Job Category:

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