Junior Researcher/Postdoctoral Scholar in Agricultural Policy and Data Analytics at University of Illinois
The Agroecosystem Sustainability Center (ASC) at the University of Illinois is recruiting talented researchers for two positions. ASC is leading in advancing agroecosystem sustainability through cutting-edge research in modeling, remote sensing, and Artificial Intelligence. Join our interdisciplinary team to tackle pressing challenges in agriculture and policy.
Position: Junior Researcher/Postdoc in Agricultural Policy and Data Analytics
Salary: $60-65k/year, depending on experience
Starting date: as soon as possible
Role overview: The successful candidate will translate results from biophysical modeling and research on agricultural conservation practices, weather, and production risk, into actionable insights for federal policy analysis and design. This position will be an applied science effort combining biophysical modeling, data, computation, and visualization with a focus on applications to federal agricultural policies. Policy expertise is not required, however a strong interest in applying knowledge to policy is needed. Additional tasks include writing journal articles and public engagement products (such as presentations and outreach articles), as well as working with computer developers on visualization and related outputs. The candidate will work closely with Prof. Jonathan Coppess and Prof. Kaiyu Guan.
Qualifications: Applicants should hold a PhD (or be near completion) in agricultural science, environmental science, applied economics, or another relevant field. Required skills include strong programming (e.g., Python, R) and data visualization experience, as well as excellent writing and communication skills. The ideal candidate will also have familiarity with USDA datasets, crop and weather modeling, and an interest in public policy.
How to apply: Interested candidates should send a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts (unofficial is acceptable), and contact information for three references via email with the subject “Prospective Researcher” to asc-application@illinois.edu.
Link to job posting: https://asc.illinois.edu/hiring/