Research technician - plant biology

Visiting Research Technician - Plant Biology

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Job Summary

The Leakey group at the University of Illinois seeks applicants for a research technician position assisting the principal investigator with data collection and analysis related to enhancing water use efficiency.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collect data (including root imagery, soil moisture, hyperspectral, UAV, stomatal imagery)
• Processing, statistical analysis, and graphing of image data (roots, stomata, hyperspectral) and soil moisture data will be primarily conducted in R. All data will be supplied to project team for preparation of manuscripts and presentations.
• Apply machine learning techniques by preparing and inputting data into models to train algorithms for identifying patterns and generating predictions.
• Install, maintain, and collect data from field equipment in various field experiments to support the research of the lab group. (including installation of minirhizotron tubes via hydraulic corers)

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in biological field.

2. Experience collecting and analyzing crop phenotypic data in field trials.

3. Experience with UAV and minirhizotron technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g. R) and analysis.
2. Training on leaf gas exchange equipment.

Successful candidates will have:

• Ability to communicate effectively with others.
• Ability to perform work in an office and greenhouse setting.
• Excellent organization and time management skills.
• Ability to multi-task in order to meet stringent deadlines while producing accurate work.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive environment.

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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 deadline date.
The budgeted salary range for the position is $39,500-$45,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The employee hired into this position will be expected to work onsite on a full-time basis. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.


Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on October 2,2025 . Apply for this position using the Apply Now button on this posting, and upload your cover letter, resume (months and years of employment must be included), official transcripts for all degrees obtained, and names/contact information for three professional references. Please remember to include specific information on how you meet the qualifications of the position in your application materials, including all relevant experiences. Applications not submitted through will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact [email protected]. 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.

For assistance with resume creation and mock interviews, please follow this link for University of Illinois Human Resources workshops (held every other week):

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.

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 [email protected].

Requisition ID : 1032197

Job Category : Research

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