Research Specialist - Energy Resources Center at University of Illinois Chicago

Research Specialist - Energy Resources Center

University of Illinois Chicago

Hiring Department: Energy Resources Center

Location: Chicago, IL USA

Requisition ID: 1027320

Posting Close Date: October 14, 2024

About the University of Illinois Chicago

UIC is among the nation’s preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent Best Colleges rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has over 300,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.

Description:

Position Summary

This position contributes to the design and delivery of research projects and collaborates with researchers to develop, execute and interpret research projects. Performs complex laboratory and data collection techniques.

The program facilitates the Rights-of-Way as Habitat Working Group, which provides expertise and resources to individuals and organizations interested in promoting pollinator habitat and healthy ecosystems on energy and transportation landscapes.

This position will help lead special conservation initiatives, assist projects led by other team members, support a USDA-funded geospatial and field research project, and assist the nationwide Monarch Butterfly CCAA Program.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Principle Investigator and researchers to develop objectives and design of research projects and proposals.
• Formulate and conduct scientific experiments and analyses. Performs complex data collection and laboratory techniques.
• Analyze and evaluate test and research results.
• Replicate, refine and add new research approaches based on project needs. Test, customize and implement new methods, procedures and techniques.
• Develop and write advanced, comprehensive experimental protocols.
• Monitor project developments on an ongoing basis. Propose and implement changes as needed.
• Contribute material, prepare results and assist in the writing of research findings for publications, papers, presentations, grants, and other documents for publication.
• Assist principal investigator in grant and manuscript submission.
• Guide, train and advise lower-level researchers and students on techniques, methods and procedures.
• Independently lead projects and support other program initiatives.
• Perform technical reviews of program applications and other documentation provided by industry participants.
• Conduct technical analysis which may include topical research, geospatial mapping or queries, and statistical analysis.
• Organize and plan meetings and webinars, including scheduling, preparing agendas and presentations, and note-taking.
• Communicate with program partners and support coordination and outreach efforts, including managing task forces, direct communications via phone, email, or other media, and preparation of guidance documents.
• Lead and assist with grant and report writing.
• Perform independent literature reviews or background research to become familiar with technical knowledge needed for this role.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in science or related field required. Master’s degree in science preferred.
• A minimum of 3 years related research experience.
• Possesses and applies comprehensive knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices and methods.
• Proficient in specific lab research techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace platforms.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, writing, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently (either in a remote or in-person work environment) and lead tasks in a manner that results in work being completed on time, to expectations communicated, and budget available.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a supportive, positive team environment.
• Experience with UIC’s Sustainable Landscapes and Rights-of-Way as Habitat Working Group initiatives is preferred.
• Experience or background in biology, restoration ecology, vegetation management, or related fields is a plus.
• Experience or abilities in ArcGIS, web design, online tool development, visual illustration of data and scientific concepts, or graphic design.

For fullest consideration, please submit a letter of interest, resume and list of three references to

by October 14, 2024.

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

to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and review through .

The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees.