Agroforestry Research Specialist

Job Opening: Agroforestry Research Specialist

The Savanna Institute invites applications for an Agroforestry Research Specialist to support a multi-year research project designed to drive real-world windbreak adoption across Illinois and Iowa. We're seeking a motivated research professional to join our collaborative team studying how windbreaks impact crop yields and ecosystem benefits. This position offers the opportunity to work across multiple areas - from GIS analysis and field data collection to farmer engagement. You'll help build a network of farmer collaborators and contribute to research that addresses practical concerns about windbreaks while quantifying conservation outcomes that could unlock new adoption incentives.

Please note: This is a fixed-duration position funded through 2030. While there may be opportunities for the position to continue, we cannot guarantee continuation beyond the current project timeline. 

Who We Are

The Savanna Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Madison, WI and Urbana, IL. Established in 2013, we work in collaboration with farmers, businesses, and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry in the Midwest US. Inspired by the native savanna ecosystems that once covered much of this region, we envision a transformed agricultural system, centered on trees and other perennial crops, that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant, equitable communities. For more information, please visit savannainstitute.org.

Job Description

Hours: Full-time

Location: Madison, WI or Champaign-Urbana, IL

Start Date: August 11, 2025

Salary: $55,000-$65,000 per year

• This position is eligible for the Institute’s benefits package. Benefits for full-time employees include 20 days of paid time off annually plus 11 civic holidays, 12 weeks of parental/disability leave annually, a dependent care flex spending account, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, reimbursement of healthcare costs (including ACA marketplace premiums) via an HRA plan, and a monthly home office stipend.

• This position reports to the Ecosystem Scientist at Savanna Institute

Duties/Responsibilities

• Geospatial Analysis: Work with staff to identify functional windbreaks using GIS tools and process farmer-submitted yield maps using R to understand windbreak impacts on crop productivity.
• Outreach and Engagement: Support network-building efforts by helping contact potential collaborators and working with our demonstration farm team to maintain engagement with farmer cooperators.
• Field Data Collection: Conduct extensive fieldwork throughout Illinois and Iowa, including tree measurements, soil sampling, and biodiversity monitoring. Extensive regional travel with frequent overnight trips is required. Plan to travel approximately one work-week of every month.  All work-related travel expenses covered.
• Laboratory Analysis: Support sample preparation and basic lab analyses as needed.
• Data Management: Help maintain and organize diverse datasets (geospatial, agronomic, field measurements, lab results) ensuring accuracy across the multi-year project.

Required Qualifications

• Proficiency with GIS software and geospatial analysis 
• Experience with field data collection and willingness to work in outdoor conditions
• Strong interpersonal skills and comfort building relationships with farmers and agricultural landowners
• Committed to scientific rigor and eager to contribute to agroforestry research

Preferred Qualifications

• Associates or Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in ecology, environmental science, agronomy, forestry, or related field
• Experience conducting ecological or agricultural research in field settings
• Experience working with agricultural producers or in agricultural extension/outreach roles
• Experience with data management and analysis in R, Python, or similar platforms

If you're excited about this job, we're excited to learn about your experience! Please be sure to address each of the following qualifications in your cover letter — paint us a picture of how your unique skills, experiences, and/or education meet or exceed the qualifications. Cover letters should be no longer than 1 typed page. 

How To Apply Submit a resume/CV and cover letter to the position on our jobs page: https://www.savannainstitute.org/jobs/

Deadline All applications must be received by 11:59 pm CT on July 6th, 2025.

Questions? Email Kathleen Fitzgibbon, Assistant Director of Administration, at kathleen@savannainstitute.org.

Diversity Commitment

The Savanna Institute affirms the value of diversity of staff and stakeholders, and aims to foster inclusive environments and equitable outcomes of our work. We seek individuals who are committed to these goals.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law.

Posted: June 13th, 2025

Submit a resume/CV and cover letter to the position on our jobs page: https://www.savannainstitute.org/jobs/