Botany Data Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Visiting ScientificSpecialist, Botany
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
ThePrairie Research Institute (PRI), a research and service institute of theUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, centrally located between Chicago,St. Louis, and Indianapolis, houses five State Scientific Surveys covering awide range of expertise, including biology, water resources, climate, geology,sustainable technology, and archaeology. PRI's mission is to provideobjective, integrated scientific research and services that allow citizens anddecision-makers to make choices that ensure sustainable economic development,enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservation for thepeople, businesses, and across Illinois, the nation, and the world.
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), one of the five Scientific Surveyshoused by the Prairie Research Institute, is seeking a Visiting Botanist, who will administer research activities of theSurvey by developing, planning, coordinating, and conducting vegetation andseed dispersal surveys, data analyses, report writing, and projectadministration.
Remoteand Hybrid work options may be available for this position, with the ability tobe on-site as needed per the University'sWorkplace Flexibility policy.
Duties& Responsibilities Include

• 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 CoastSnap 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

PhysicalDemands
Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, bitinginsects, etc.). Ability to move, lift, and carry equipment weighing up to 25pounds.
WorkSchedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations
Willrequire travel (including overnight stays and driving to and from researchsites) throughout the state of Illinois, working irregular hours.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in botany, plant ecology, or a related field. Alternatedegree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of theexperience as it relates to this position. Experience with community- orlandscape-level plant data collection and analysis. Experience with Midwesternflora (including wetlands and Great Lakes coastal
vegetation)and plant identification methods (e.g., dichotomous key). Experience processingand analyzing GIS data and with mapping techniques. Demonstrated record of independentproject management and completing assigned tasks in an accurate, efficient, andtimely manner, both with minimal supervision and in team settings. Experience translatingresearch findings to agencies, technicians, the scientific community, and the generalpublic. Valid Driver's license and ability to meet requirements for a dronepilot license.
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience working with other Survey scientists on relevant researchprojects. Supervisory experience. Experience with plant ecology. Experiencewith sampling vegetation and plant identification. Experience with remotesensing
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Expertise in plant ecology. Knowledge of Midwestern flora (including wetlandsand Great Lakes coastal vegetation). Knowledge, including the ability tointerpret, create, and manipulate maps. Proficiency in commonly employeddatabase and statistical software, including GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and R.Statistical knowledge and proficiency in R. Proficiency with data analysismethods. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration,organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to performeffectively in a fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple andchanging priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision.Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.
Appointment Information
Thisis a 100% full-time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a12-month basis, renewable annually contingent upon available funding andprogrammatic needs. The position may be converted to a regularappointment in the future, subject to funding and programmatic considerations.
The start date is negotiable, and the budgeted salary range is $50,000 to$55,000. Thesalary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience,while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual tobe offered a salary at or near the top of the full range for a position.
This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on September 18, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered.
Applicationmaterials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines yourqualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV orresume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) forthree professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.For further information about this specific position, please contact Dr. BrendaMolano-Flore at molano1@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the applicationprocess, 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: 1038153
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu