Assistant Research Scientist, Large River Fisheries Ecology - INHS/PRI at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois

Job Description:

Assistant Research Scientist, Large River Fisheries Ecology
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute



Illinois is a world leader in research, teaching, and public engagement. We serve the state, the nation, and the world by creating knowledge, preparing students for lives of impact, and addressing critical societal needs through the transfer and application of knowledge. Illinois is the place where we embrace differences. We embrace it because we value it. Illinois is especially interested in candidates who can contribute, through their research, teaching, and/or service, to the diversity and excellence of the Illinois community.


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 service 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. Learn more at https://go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs .



Bighead carp and silver carp (invasive carp) populations have increased in abundance and expanded their upstream range within the Upper Mississippi River (UMR). Limited fish passage at Lock and dam 19 (LD19) has slowed their progression and establishment in the UMR upstream of Keokuk, IA. However, the detection of young-of-year invasive carp upstream LD19, although in smaller densities than downstream populations, indicates that invasive carp populations have reached densities capable of detectable reproduction. To combat this population expansion and decrease invasive carp densities at the established front (Pools 16, 17, 18, and 19), additional measures are needed to monitor, control, and manage invasive carp while densities are still low and manageable. Our biologists make data-informed management decisions to help guide contracted, commercial fishers to intensively target invasive carp for removal at the established front and invasion front (reaches above Pool 15), survey for the presence of invasive carp reproduction using larval light traps in Pool 19 of the established front, and determine the frequency and rate of invasive fish passage at LDs 14 and 15 and native fish passage at LD19. This is a dynamic position that relies on cutting-edge technologies and critical thinking to maximize removal efficiency and effectiveness.


The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), which investigates and documents the biological resources of Illinois and other areas and acquires and provides natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources, is seeking to hire a Large River Fisheries Ecologists to develop, direct, and conduct research activities focused on issues surrounding the impact, control, and management of bigheaded carp and other potential nuisance or invasive species throughout the Upper Mississippi River. This position is located in Havana, IL. However, most work will be based at our satellite office in Macomb, IL.


Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct biological research on the Upper Mississippi River using multiple types of fishing gear (PDC electrofishing, netting, telemetry, quadrafoil light traps) and work closely with fishers to guide contracted invasive carp harvest.


• Collect fish population monitoring data and use the information to develop and evaluate research projects and guide management.


• Coordinate field sampling schedules including; identifying sampling locations, completion of equipment inventory for each trip, and safety inspection of marine craft and gear, supervising students and hourly technicians to oversee and guide scheduling, assigning tasks, explaining required sampling techniques, guiding required field data collection necessary to complete project, and ensuring marine safety protocols are followed.


• Maintain active and open communication between immediate coworkers, fishers, collaborators, and other parties.


• Manage, analyze, and translate research, harvest, telemetry, and monitoring data into scientific findings and provide management recommendations to funding agencies, collaborators, and other interested parties.


• Provide recommendations to funding agencies, collaborators, and other interested parties.


• Translate scientific data into reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations to be delivered at conferences and professional meetings.


• Work with the lay community to engender positive feedback regarding scientific research.


• Coordinate and cooperate with the Survey, PRI, University of Illinois, and other groups


• Attend local, regional, national, and international conferences.


• Represent the Survey, PRI, the University, and other state and federal agencies on professional and interagency committees associated with river ecology and fisheries.


• Represent the Survey, PRI, and UIUC committees.


• Ensure facilities and equipment are properly maintained, grant and contract obligations are fulfilled, and data quality assurance standards are met.


• Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of PRI.


• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience or Master's degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience in standard fish sampling and other sampling techniques important to large river ecology research. Experience with pulsed-DC, fyke and hoop netting, trawling, and other sampling techniques important to large river ecology research. Experience with writing and presenting scientific reports and scientific journal articles that include standard fisheries statistical analyses. Valid Driver's License.



Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Experience driving and troubleshooting 4WD trucks and boats and trailering boats. Proficiency in larval fish identification and experience in fish telemetry are preferred. Experience with purchasing goods and completing expense reports will also be preferred. Experience working on large river systems by boat. Proficiency using common statistical and georeferencing software such as SAS or R, and ArcGIS. Boater's Safety, MOCC training, First-Aid and CPR training, AFS Certified Fisheries Professional, Red Cross or other swim certification.



Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases, including Microsoft Office, MS Access, ArcGIS, and statistical software packages (R, SAS, etc.). Possess appropriate field and laboratory skills as well as physical skills necessary to carry out work. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other scientists, researchers, staff, and clients. The ability to swim is required.



Environmental Demands

Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, cold, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites); lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds regularly during field season. The work of this position also takes place in an office setting. Office work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions.



Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The salary for this position is $50,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The start date is negotiable.



Application Procedures & Deadline Information


Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on December 2, 2024(Extended). 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 .Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after this date. 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. Jim Lamer at lamer@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.


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 accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .


Requisition ID: 1027621
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
Apply Now