Job description

Visiting Research Scientist, ASC Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment This position may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement dependent with unit operational needs. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H-1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee. The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is a public land-grant research university in Illinois in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867. The university serves the people of Illinois through a shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, public engagement, economic development and health care. Faculty, staff and students share their knowledge, expertise and resources with residents in every corner of the state through public service and outreach programs. Job Summary The Visiting Research Scientist position at the Agroecosystem Sustainability Center (ASC) within the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (ISEE) will lead research projects on agricultural hydrology, water quality, sustainable and resilient agroecosystem, seek funding opportunities and support development of grant proposals, publish research output in academic journals or at conferences, and support the team lead on project and team management, and project-related education, outreach and extension activities. Duties & Responsibilities • Conduct research related to agricultural hydrology, water quality, sustainable and resilient agroecosystem, and publish research outputs in journals and at conferences. • Support proposal development to secure research funds. • Support the management of research projects and research team, including project reporting, and team activities. • Support project-related education and training of students, outreach and extension with farmers. Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations • Occasional in-state and out-of-state travel, including single-day and overnight trips. • Being able to work in either field, laboratory, or office settings. Minimum Qualifications • PhD in hydrology, water resource management, agricultural and biological engineering, soil and plant sciences, ecosystem ecology, or physical geography. • A minimum of two years of post-PhD experience related to agricultural hydrology, water quality, and agroecosystem monitoring and/or modeling. • A valid US Driver’s license is required. Preferred Qualifications • Demonstrated experience in managing research projects. • Demonstrated experience in writing high-quality research proposals. • Demonstrated experience in undergraduate or graduate student mentoring. • Strong publication record in domain leading journals. • Demonstrated experience in outreach and extension. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities • Evidence of consistent use of good judgment, discretion, and tactful communication. • Ability to work effectively with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives and contribute to an environment that supports access and engagement. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision. • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively Appointment Information This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. This position may become permanent at a later date. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $60,000 to $70,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Application Procedures & Deadline Information Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 . Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Qualified candidates must upload: 1) a cover letter which details qualifications noted above; 2) resume or CV; and 3) the names and contact information for three professional references. Applications not submitted through jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information about this specific position, please contact Thurman Etchison at tetchis2@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 : 1038533 Job Category : Research Apply at: jobs.illinois.edu

Requirements

Must-haves

Visiting Research Scientist, ASC
Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment
Duties & Responsibilities
Conduct research related to agricultural hydrology, water quality, sustainable and resilient agroecosystem, and publish research outputs in journals and at conferences.
Support proposal development to secure research funds.
Support the management of research projects and research team, including project reporting, and team activities.
Support project-related education and training of students, outreach and extension with farmers.
Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations
Occasional in-state and out-of-state travel, including single-day and overnight trips.
Being able to work in either field, laboratory, or office settings.
PhD in hydrology, water resource management, agricultural and biological engineering, soil and plant sciences, ecosystem ecology, or physical geography.
A minimum of two years of post-PhD experience related to agricultural hydrology, water quality, and agroecosystem monitoring and/or modeling.

Nice-to-haves

Demonstrated experience in managing research projects.
Demonstrated experience in writing high-quality research proposals.
Demonstrated experience in undergraduate or graduate student mentoring.
Strong publication record in domain leading journals.
Demonstrated experience in outreach and extension.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Evidence of consistent use of good judgment, discretion, and tactful communication.
Ability to work effectively with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives and contribute to an environment that supports access and engagement.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively
Appointment Information
Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Application prep

Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.

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Benefits

Benefits detected in the listing.

Dental

Vision

Paid Time Off