Assistant Research Scientist, Hunter Research - INHS/PRI

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research – Data Collection and Analysis Collect data to enhance and improve knowledge and understanding of needs and efficacy of R3 program development and delivery. Conduct scientific surveys toward identifying motivations, constraints, and behaviors of potential new hunters, existing hunters, and lapsed hunters. Assess the needs of local clientele. This includes surveying stakeholder needs, networking, and collaborating with relevant groups. Compile and clean data to ensure quality control/quality assurance. Assemble data to be utilized in technical reports to granting agencies and peer-reviewed publications. Evaluate the impact of the program initiatives in a planned and statistically relevant fashion. Evaluation plans should focus on short- and long-term impacts and changes. Maintain and improve upon basic and advanced knowledge in specialized research areas. Assist with quarterly and annual program reports provided to the granting agency. Proofread and edited final project reports for granting agencies and constituents. Comply with all reporting deadlines and requirements.
• Research – Outreach/Education Provide program leadership, interpret, and integrate information, teach in the field of designated expertise, maintain competencies to develop and deliver educational programming, and assist clients with the appropriate resource base. Using research findings, advise in the planning of hunter recruitment workshops, seminars, and outreach activities aimed at educating the Illinois public on the specifics of hunting. Assist in the development of high-impact programs for diverse audiences aimed at mentoring and educating adults on the specifics of hunting. Incorporate data in the development of outreach content for a variety of platforms using various media types (e.g., webinars, podcasts, infographics, articles). Prioritize, organize, and plan to ensure projects move forward on time. Collaborate with Illinois DNR and program partners to meet objectives in the Illinois R3 Strategic Plan. Develop and implement a strategic plan to reengage the Illinois public in hunting based on research data. Develop and foster strategic initiatives that focus on creating equity among under-represented groups in the Illinois hunting population. Provide outreach and service to the public, the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, sponsors, and professional organizations of program research findings. Advise planners as to the execution of outreach and education events aimed at educating the adult Illinois public on the specifics of hunting.
• Communications Identify relevant topics, news, reminders, and other important and timely information that is of interest to Illinois hunters. Develop effective and contemporary approaches to communication with clientele and utilize social media to provide support for new hunters through relevant content posting, answering questions, and fostering discussion among followers of program social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, YouTube). Contribute to program-developed monthly newsletters.
• Other Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois. Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.