Visiting Research Scientist - Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

Visiting Research Scientist - Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment

This position requires in-person work on campus

This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B 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.

iSEE is hiring two Visiting Research Scientists that will conduct bioprocessing lab and pilot plant experiments and analyze data, synthesize results for technical reporting and submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals, and manage projects and research staff to improve work efficiency.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct bioprocessing experiments and of deconstruction of biomass, conversion of sugars into fermentation products and recovery of coproducts from different waste and processing streams.
• Analyze data, synthesize results, and author annual technical reports and multiple manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Lead data organization and curation across multiple projects.
• Coordinate and manage projects to ensure data quality and to improve work efficiency.
• Supervise undergrads, graduate students, and technicians.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Bioprocessing, or closely related field.
• Experience processing biomass for biofuels, carbohydrate analysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, and downstream processing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive experience processing biomass for biofuels, carbohydrate analysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation and downstream processing
• Experience working with bioenergy crops such as Miscanthus, Bioenergy Sorghum, Switchgrass, etc.
• Experience in use of NMR for lipids or pigments quantification.
• 2+ years postdoctoral experience.

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 previously determined salary range for this position was $60,000 to $61,000. 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 Monday, March 30, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Qualified candidates must upload: 1) resume or CV; and 2) the names and contact information for three professional references. Applications not submitted through 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 Leslie Lewin Reinhart at 217-333-0034. 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 [email protected] .

Requisition ID : 1035285

Job Category : Research

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