Visiting Research Scientist - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Urbana, IL, USA
Visiting Research Scientist - Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology
The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) is an interdisciplinary research institute at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, built on a team-science approach. Its mission is to advance life sciences research, engage the public in understanding the impact of genomic discoveries, and foster bioeconomic development across Illinois. IGB researchers lead groundbreaking genomic studies that tackle critical societal challenges in food security, energy, health, technology, and environmental sustainability. The institute’s administrative infrastructure is designed to support dynamic research themes, enabling them to evolve with emerging discoveries, innovative methods, and changing needs.Job Summary
The primary responsibility of this position is to investigate crop nitrogen budgets and N2O emissions from maize and sorghum lines designed to have greater nitrogen use efficiency. In addition, the incumbent will manage and conduct field experiments with sorghum and maize, including coordinating biomass harvests and N content analyses.Duties & Responsibilities
- Design and conduct field experiments to investigate crop nitrogen budgets and N2O emissions from maize and sorghum lines.
- Analyze and apply machine learning approaches to data collection.
- Communicate research progress and results to project team members and external stakeholders including publishing peer reviewed manuscripts to disseminate scientific findings as well presenting the results at scientific conferences and project meetings.
- Maintain detailed and organized records of project data and other materials.
- Recruit, select and mentor undergraduate students to assist with research.
Additional Physical Demands
Work is performed in a field in summer months, with extended exposure to weather elements. Must have access to reliable transportation for transporting specimens and equipment to the field.Minimum Qualifications
Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, Crop Sciences, Plant Biology, Plant Physiology/Biochemistry, Soil Science, or closely related field. Must have experience with: 1. Crop physiological analysis. 2. Infrared gas analysis of leaf and soil CO2 fluxes. 3. Analysis of soil N2O emissions.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with:
1. Team science.
2. Designing and conducting replicated field experiments.
3. Advanced statistical and/or machine learning analysis.
4. Substantial post-doctoral experience in photosynthetic crop research.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of CO2 and N2O fluxes, field experiments, nitrogen analysis.
- Must be able to communicate effectively with others.
- Ability to work in a complex and challenging environment, both autonomously and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Must possess critical thinking and problem solving skills with a demonstrated ability to efficiently execute project tasks.
- Preferred experience with statistical analysis of large datasets.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 5/18/2026. The budgeted salary range is $62,000 to $72,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on May 4, 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. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jana Lenz at janalenz@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.
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: 1035830
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu