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 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.

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