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Announcement of Research Specialist Position for Wheat Breeding 2025, The Crop Sciences Department, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 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.
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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 for Wheat Breeding 2025 is an excellent job opportunity. Candidates with degree in Agronomy / crop sciences are eligible to apply for Research Specialist Position at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Candidates from any part of the world may submit their applications via online.
Details of Research Specialist Position for Wheat Breeding 2025:
| Posted date | 29-07-2025 |
| Sector | Government |
| Job type | Full Time |
| Salary | $4000- $5000 |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in agronomy, crop science |
| Job Location | Illinois, USA |
| Postal Code | 61820 |
| Hiring Organization | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States |
| Last Date | 05-09-2025 |
| Job Status | ON |
| No. of Vacancies | Multiple |
| Organization Street Address | MC 562, 52 E. Gregory Dr. Champaign, IL 61820, USA |
Research Specialist Position for Wheat Breeding 2025 Summary:
Carry out field testing and breeding operations for wheat and oat, with a specific focus on collecting phenotypic data on research plots.
Duties & 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 & Qualification:
Education & Experience:
- 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.
Details of Salary & Appointment:
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 annually $50,000- $55,000.
How to Apply for Research Specialist Position for Wheat Breeding 2025?
- All interested candidates may submit their application via online 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 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.
- 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.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, or related fields. International applicants are welcome.
2. What is the application deadline?
September 5, 2025 (for full consideration). The position remains open until filled.
3. Is remote work available?
No, this is an on-site role with field and lab work in Illinois.
4. Are visa sponsorships offered?
The university may sponsor work visas for qualified candidates.
5. What licenses are required?
Illinois Pesticide Applicator’s License and Class A CDL must be obtained within six months of hiring.
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