University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences

Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics

Research Specialist (Data Scientist), Soybean Innovation Laboratory

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Research Specialist (Data Scientist), Soybean Innovation Laboratory



POSITION SUMMARY:

Conducting specialized research tasks that require advanced skills and knowledge in Soybean economic analysis in African Environments, agricultural science, data analysis, and biotechnology.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Research Activities:

In this role, the candidate will spend 80% of their time conducting specialized research tasks that require advanced skills and knowledge in Soybean economic analysis in African Environments, agricultural science, data analysis, and biotechnology. The focus will be on the following key studies:

Mapping Africa's Soybean Frontier (Soybean):

o Utilize geographic information systems (GIS) and statistical modeling to delineate Target Population Environments (TPEs) for multinational breeding programs.

o Collaborate with local stakeholders to characterize and quantify potential soybean growing regions in Africa, requiring expertise in agronomy and regional agricultural practices.

Seasonal Dynamics in African Soybean

o Conduct detailed analysis of planting seasons and envirotype each location using advanced environmental data gathering and analysis techniques.

o Delineate TPEs by assessing environmental differences, developing strategic breeding entry-list definitions, and improving licensing processes, necessitating skills in environmental science and strategic planning.

Artificial Intelligence Models for Predicting Soybean Performance:

o Develop and implement machine learning models to predict soybean yields in novel environments, requiring proficiency in AI and data science.

o Translate complex biological features into actionable insights and address dataset imbalances, leveraging skills in computational biology and statistical analysis.

Genomic Enhancement of Yield Prediction:

o Aggregate and analyze genomic data to assess improvements in yield prediction, requiring expertise in genomics and bioinformatics.

o Quantify the impact of genetic data on breeding program efficiency and resource allocation, utilizing skills in genetic analysis and program management.

Decoding the Soybean Genome:

o Integrate genomic data for yield prediction, focusing on identifying key genomic regions with significant impact, necessitating advanced knowledge in genetics and molecular biology.

o Enhance the breeding program's ability to select and advance soybean varieties effectively, requiring skills in plant breeding and genetic engineering.
Project Management and Communications:

o Manage relationships with stakeholders globally.

o Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand specific requirements and deliver practical solutions.

o Present research findings to internal and external stakeholders.

o Communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders effectively.

Other Assigned Duties



POSITION REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

Required:

• Master's degree in Agricultural Science, Science in Business Analytics, or Data Science
• One year of relevant experience in research in the African Continent that involves breeding, enviromics, and genomics.
• Two years of experience with data analytics

Preferred:

• Experience with research methodologies.
• Three years of working experience with data analytics and data visualization
• Experience with culture change, and behavior changes. Knowledge of a Latin language is a plus (Portuguese, Spanish and/or French).
• Proficiency in data analysis software.
• Experience of utilizing remote sensing data to generate TPE's.
• Proficiency in programming languages.
• Experience with cloud computing platforms.
• Strong knowledge of data modeling concepts and database design.
• Familiarity with satellite and GIS data processing.
• Experience in applying machine learning models to real-world problems.
• Proficiency in data visualization tools and techniques.
• Advanced knowledge of data integration and ETL processes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying issues.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to manage global stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to work independently with little or without supervision.
• Proven ability to manage products within established deadlines.
• Ability to multi-task while coping with numerous interruptions.
• Flexibility to adapt to sudden changes in planning and activities.

SALARY AND APPOINTMENT DETAILS:

This is a full-time (100 FTE%, twelve-month service basis) academic professional appointment. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000 to $65,000. This position will work onsite.

If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment.

EXPECTED START DATE: As soon as possible

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 October 9, 2024. All requested information must be submitted via the online system for your application to be considered.

For further information, please contact Dr. Michelle da Fonseca Santos via e-mail 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 https://apptrkr.com/get_redirect.php?id=5675074&targetURL= . 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: 1026770
Job Category: Research

To apply, visit https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/11915?c=illinois







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About University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has earned a reputation as a world-class leader in research, teaching, and public engagement. With our land-grant heritage as our foundation, we pioneer innovative research that tackles global problems and expands the human experience. Our transformative learning experiences, in and out of the classroom, are designed to produce innovative alumni who desire to make a significant, societal impact.

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