Research Specialist

Department of Crop Sciences

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES)

WE TRANSFORM LIVES.

Everything we do is designed to improve the quality of life of the people in the state of Illinois, across the nation, and around the world. We discover, develop, translate, and disseminate knowledge to address societal concerns and train the next generation of experts and leaders in a way that empowers them to expand the boundaries of science to higher levels of understanding and influence.

Be a part of our story.  The Department of Crop Sciences within the College of Consumer, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences offers world-class laboratory, greenhouse, and field research facilities as well as state of the art teaching facilities. The University of Illinois also offers outstanding facilities in computing, data science, and genomic analysis as well as many other areas of potential support.

The Crop Sciences Department seeks candidates for a Research Specialist position. The chosen candidate will join an established team of researchers working on developing and testing new varieties of wheat and oat. This work directly impacts growers and other stakeholders in Illinois and surrounding states.

Crop Sciences has a legacy of providing effective and efficient client services while creating robust opportunities for promotional growth and development. The successful candidate would participate in a comprehensive onboarding strategy led by professionals in the Crop Sciences Department.

Research Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

Carry out field testing and breeding operations for wheat and oat, with a specific focus on collecting phenotypic data on research plots.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Field testing operations

• Operate GPS guided tractors and sprayers to apply inputs to trials including nitrogen, herbicides, fungicides, and growth regulators.  
• Harvest research plots using a specialized research plot combine and electronic weigh system.
• Work as a team to plant research trials in multiple locations using research plot planters.
• Establish and manage disease and pest nurseries according to established protocols.
• Spray and mow alleys between research plots with precision.
• Coordinate with program staff, farm managers, and farmer-cooperators as needed to carry out field testing operations.

Phenotyping

• Systematically collect phenotypic data on research plots using visual scales and research equipment.
• Oversee and instruct hourly workers assisting with phenotyping.
• Ensure phenotypic data is secured according to standard procedures.

Breeding operations

• Use seed cleaners, treaters, and counters to prepare seeds for planting research trials, ensuring each research plot receives the optimal seeding rate.
• Assist with making crosses, advancing breeding populations in the greenhouse, and seed inventory management, and pure seed production.
• Oversee and instruct hourly workers assisting with breeding operations.
• Coordinate closely with other program staff and graduate students assisting with breeding operations.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in agronomy, crop science, or a related field. Relevant experience. Valid US driver's license.
• Possess a valid Illinois public/Research pesticide Applicator’s license and class A CDL within six (6) months of position start date.

Preferred:

• Row crop production experience on a farm or experiment station.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge about row crop production.
• Ability to work independently and as a team.

Travel Requirements

• Same-day travel to multiple locations within Illinois is required. For about 4-5 days per year, overnight travel is required.

SALARY AND APPOINTMENT DETAILS:

This is a full-time (100%) Academic Professional appointment. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The previously determined salary range for this position was $50,000- $55,000.  

PROPOSED STARTING DATE:

The proposed start is as soon as possible after the closing date.

APPLICATON PROCEDURES:

Apply for this position using the Apply to this Position button at the top or bottom of the posting and upload your cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. To ensure full consideration, applications should be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on September 5th 2025. The position will remain posted until filled. All requested information must be submitted via the online system for your application to be considered.

 For further information, please contact Juan Arbelaez, search chair, via e-mail at arbelaez@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: 1031602
Job Category: Research
Apply by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION.