Job Summary
Conduct research in Critical Zone science, particularly in understanding the land-surface and atmosphere critical interface using observation, modeling, and information theory driven approaches for process characterization and machine learning.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Research
● Lead research in Critical Zone science at the land-surface and atmosphere interface.
● Advance the use of information theoretic and machine learning approaches.
● Advance knowledge in the specialty area and takes initiative to keep abreast of developments in the discipline.
● Seek and utilize advanced methods and techniques.
● Pursue and secure external research grants. - Research – Publications/Scholarship
● Regularly publish strong and emerging scientific research in high-quality peer-reviewed scientific journals and other outlets that have a rigorous review process.
● Bring research activities to timely completion from project conception to a significant record of peer-reviewed publications where the quality of science is open for scrutiny and criticism.
● Document completion and lead authorship of research publications, databases, or other appropriate/related deliverables. - Teaching/Mentoring
● Serve as a mentor or co-mentor to graduate students, postdocs, or other junior professionals. - Leadership
● Develop and manage scientific, engineering, investigative, and service projects.
● Maintain involvement in institutional committees. - Research – External Funding
● Acquire external funds to support projects and programs, either independently or in cooperation with colleagues.
● Expand the Institute’s knowledge base/records, write scientific reports, and execute projects or programs consistent with the Institute’s mission.
● Review outside manuscripts/proposals at the state and national level.
● Serves on review panels and/or editorial committees.
● Provide service to major scientific societies, journals, and to the scientific community in general. - Engagement and Outreach
● Represent the home unit and/or PRI in meetings with agencies, industry, institutions, scientific organizations, and/or the public.
● Serve as an authority in a specialized area of research.
● Present research and findings at symposia, seminars, and conferences of regional, national, or international societies and institutions.
● Develop and sustain relationships with relevant academic units and institutes on our campus.
● Contribute to the Institute’s service mission. - Other Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of PRI and the University of Illinois.
Additional Physical Demands
The work of this position takes place in an office and field settings. The work is intermittently sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions. Also, intermittently working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), 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 15 pounds.
Minimum Qualifications
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hydrology or other related fields. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in independent research and mentoring of students and junior scientists.
Preferred Qualifications
Track record of a strong publication record. Field experience working with high fidelity monitoring/measurement instruments in installation and diagnostic work. Expertise in information theory applications to engineering and geoscience problems, and strong analytical, computational, and programming skills.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Successful candidate with have a strong publication record and demonstrated success securing successful external funding as a Principal Investigator. 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. Ability to work independently and also as an effective team member. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly-employed software and databases.
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. The budgeted salary range is $95,000 to $110,000 and is commensurate with education, experience, and skill, while also considering internal equity.It is not common to offer a salary near the top of a range.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on November 19th 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. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jon Freiman jcf@illinois.edu HR Business Partner. 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: 1032524
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
