Position opening: Director, Illinois State Geological Survey

Director, Illinois State Geological Survey
Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. PRI houses 5 large scientific surveys covering a wide range of expertise including biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology and archaeology. The ISGS is a premier state geological survey, with over 200 scientists and technical support staff, serving the needs of the public, government, and industry with earth science information and research relevant to natural resources, environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. The University is a land-grant institution that provides access to world-class laboratory and academic facilities, Big Ten athletic events, and internationally acclaimed cultural opportunities.

We are seeking an individual to serve as the chief executive officer and lead scientist for the ISGS, a person who will provide outstanding leadership, direction, and overall administration to:
 Develop, coordinate, and implement scientific research and service programs, public engagement activities, state-mandated functions, and professional services.
 Lead an ambitious research agenda for ISGS and ensure that sufficient funds are available to realize that agenda.
 Mentor staff in developing research programs and professional advancement.
 Encourage, foster and develop collaborative relationships within the University as well as with stakeholders in state, federal, and international agencies, other academic institutions, and the public.
 Execute the ISGS mission.
 Encourage and lead a strong commitment to diversity.
 Establish retention and recruiting priorities.
 Foster a culture of innovation and high level of performance at both the individual and organizational level.
 Encourage and commit resources to support lifelong learning at all levels.
 Foster a culture focused on awareness, scientific integrity, open communication, and safety.
 Serve as the Illinois State Geologist and represent the ISGS through professional affiliations.
 Collaborate with other State Geologists in the formulation of national earth science policies, programs, and related issues.
 Serve on national committees for science and public policy for the benefit of scientific organizations and the public.
 Direct and oversee the allocation and use of resources and facilities assigned to ISGS.
 Develop and interface with ISGS and PRI advisory committees, serve on University committees, and communicate with other offices or campus officials.

Required Qualifications: Advanced degree in an earth science discipline. Alternate degree fields may be considered depending on nature and depth of work experience as related to ISGS vision and priorities. Demonstrated successful research career and experience in research management, including science-related program development, science-team administration, and/or public service. An established leader demonstrated by success in an area of relevant research in a multidisciplinary research organization with a strong commitment to affirmative action and diversity. Must have a demonstrated high level of professional credibility and personal integrity; an outstanding record of research; obtaining sponsored funding from state, federal, or international agencies and/or the private sector; publishing results in peer-reviewed outlets; and communicating the importance of science to varied audiences. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and demonstrated experience in interacting successfully with scientists, staff, business, public, and/or elected officials.

Demonstrated vision, capability, and experience to address the challenges facing society related to the geosciences, including water, environmental, earth hazard, mineral resource, and/or energy issues.
Preferred Qualifications: Ph.D. A scholarly record appropriate for a national or international leader in her/his field, or significant other qualifications. Qualifications to be a licensed professional geologist in Illinois. Collaboration with multiple geoscience subdisciplines or other multidisciplinary scientific efforts. Participation in national or international professional or scientific organizations.

Ideal candidates will hold a doctoral degree and an academic track record appropriate for a tenured full professor at the University, or commensurately significant other qualifications in the field of earth science or related field.

This is a regular full-time academic professional position. The starting date is negotiable after the closing date. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Applications must be received by October 31, 2014. Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after that date. To apply, please visit https://jobs.illinois.edu/academic-job-board to complete an online profile and to upload a 1) cover letter, 2) résumé/CV, 3) the names and contact information (including e-mail addresses) of five professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete information will not be reviewed.

For further information please contact Lori Walston-Vonderharr, Human Resources, Illinois State Geological Survey, at lwalston@illinois.edu or 217-244-2401.

Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity (http://inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu/).