Soil Biogeochemist (Margenot Lab) - Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

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.

The Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) elevates the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as a pioneer in sustainability, energy, and environmental leadership. We achieve this through cutting-edge research, high quality educational programs, high-profile events, and innovative campus sustainability initiatives.

Job Summary
Co-lead research efforts in the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment and Agroecosystem Sustainability Center focusing on soil nutrient cycling andbiogeochemistry.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to test hypothesized to fulfill objectives of research grants, including microbiological assays, radioisotopic and stable isotope tracer studies, and soil fertility measurements
• Organize, compile, and analyze data
• Work with PI to produce research products, including grant reports and manuscripts for peer-review publications
• Supervise graduate students and undergrad research hourlies to support research program, including training, assigning work, and tracking work performance and deliverables
• Train graduate students and postdocs on research techniques
• Maintain and calibrate lab instrumentation

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in soil science, agricultural chemistry, environmental chemistry, biogeochemistry, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on depth and breadth of experience and skills as related to this position.
• Research experience in the laboratory and in the field related to soil science, including soil sampling and analyses, plant sampling and analysis, and data analysis.
• At least one year post-PhD experience in conducting research (e.g., postdoctoral experience).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with radioisotopic techniques (e.g., 33-P, 32-P).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Required:
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work in a large collaborative team environment.
  • Evidence of consistent use of good judgment, discretion, and tactful communication.
  • Energy and enthusiasm for expressing the value of diverse cultures, fostering empathy, and improving organizations in the areas of access and representation.
  • Knowledge and experience with office software and ability to learn custom systems including basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel) and knowledge of data visualization approaches (e.g., Origin).
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities without direct supervision.
  • Excellent oral and written communications skills with a record of publications in peer reviewed journals.

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 the close date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $55,000 to $65,000. 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 April 30, 2025. 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. 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. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, OVCRI Human Resources, elhanson@illinois.edu.

For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

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: 1030252
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu