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The Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics (ACE) is comprised of world-renowned faculty whose research and outreach programs influence national and international policy making on issues ranging from how producers, consumers, and agribusinesses manage risk and adapt to climate change to the impacts of new technologies, environmental regulations, federal laws on profitability and human well-being.
Be a part of our story.
The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Soybean Value Chain Research (Soybean Innovation Lab, "SIL") within the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics (ACE) at the University of Illinois is looking for an organized, professional, and knowledgeable individual to lead SIL research and development efforts in the role of a Visiting Research Specialist.
Visiting Research Specialist
POSITION SUMMARY:
The primary function of the Visiting Research Specialist is to conduct soybean research and manage the day-to-day operations of the Pan-African Trial Program from the Soybean Innovation Lab, including, but not limited to, conducting research, analyzing data, reporting on program impacts and successes, maintaining databases, interacting with and supporting partner researchers and research institutions, and communicating with research faculty.
The Visiting Research Specialist must be detail-oriented, efficient, organized, and possess skills across a wide range of aspects. The position will require an ability to work independently across several areas including research management, database management, coordination/logistics, and reporting. The primary responsibilities of the Visiting Research Specialist include, but are not limited to:
Collaborate with research partners in Africa to implement and manage variety trials
Collect, manage, and report on data collected from variety trials across countries and research partner institutions
Upgrade and maintain robust and informative databases
Implement and organize program workflow and documents
Support the Program Manager in improving data collection
Deliver metrics on the program bi-monthly
Develop visual outreach, communication, and educational products to effectively promote soybean trial implementation and data collection guidance
Other Assigned Duties
POSITION REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience
Required:
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as agricultural communication, agronomy, or international development.
Experience can be concurrent: • Experience in research for international agricultural development • Experience in communicating with researchers and practitioners abroad • Experience in research program coordination
Preferred:
Master's degree in a relevant field such as agricultural communication, agronomy, or international development.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to think creatively, strategically, and conceptually
Demonstrated awareness of diverse international cultures, practices, norms, and institutions
Project management and problem-solving skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to write clearly for various audiences and outlets
Ability to work with others as part of a creative team and to interact in a professional and productive manner with staff at all levels of the organization
Understanding of university, higher education, and international culture
Demonstrated ability to work within a fast-paced, team environment managing multiple deadlines, budgets, programs, and activities
SALARY AND APPOINTMENT DETAILS:
This is a full-time (100% FTE, 12-month professional) position. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The salary range for this position starts at $40,000. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position. This position may become non-visiting at a later time.
PROPOSED STARTING DATE:
The proposed start is as soon as possible after the closing date.
APPLICATON PROCEDURES:
Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting on https://jobs.illinois.edu 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 May 1, 2024. All requested information must be submitted via the online system for your application to be considered. For further information, please contact SIL Assistant Director Dr. Michelle da Fonseca Santos at mdfsanto@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. 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: 1024096 Job Category: Research Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
