Job Description

Visiting Scientific Project Manager -Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology

Job SummaryManage, train, and coordinate various research activities, provide technical guidance, and ensure the smooth operation of laboratory activities. Conduct independent research. Duties & ResponsibilitiesResearch activities:

• Conduct independent research to advance project goals.
• Oversee project performance of trainees and junior staff and provide technical guidance and advise on best practices in developing protocols, conducting experiments, analyzing data and presenting results.
• Collaborate with faculty, postdocs, students, and staff as an embedded research team member to strategize on and execute research activities to meet project milestones.
• Create scientific presentations and present results in scientific meetings and conferences and contribute to the writing of peer-reviewed publications and technical reports. Project management activities:
• Supervise laboratory staff.
• Contribute to strategic planning and implementation of research goals in partnership with project leadership.
• Organize and prepare materials (presentations, reports) to present to project sponsors and collaborators.
• Foster collaborations within the project, both at the university and with partner institutions, including organizing meetings and facilitating interactions across project teams.
• Serve as the liaison between the laboratory team and project leadership team.

Physical Demands and Working ConditionsWork is performed in a general laboratory and office setting. Minimum QualificationsPh.D. in Microbiology or Molecular Biology. Minimum of five years of experience working in a research setting beyond graduate education. Preferred QualificationsPh.D. in Microbiology.Supervisory experience with a minimum of four or more years of progressively more responsible experience in an academic research setting. Documented record of excellent performance in recent professional appointments, evidenced by successful project execution, leadership responsibilities, and sustained contribution to research programs. Strong track record of scientific publication.Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesStrong expertise in microbiology, molecular biology, and virology techniques, including working with human and bacterial viruses. Demonstrated ability to work with various stakeholder teams and coordinate projects across multiple teams and institutions. Problem-solving skills and ability to work with various groups of individuals with varying work styles, experiences, and abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with team members. Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate documentation. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple research activities and meet deadlines. 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 close date.The budgeted salary for this position is $70,000-$75,000. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market date, internal salary equity, candidate eperience and qualifications. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization. Application Procedures & Deadline Information Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on November 16, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contract information for three references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jacinda King at jkking@ilinois.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: 1038743

Job Category: Research

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu