Prairie Research Institute

We're hiring: Illinois State Water Survey Director and Principal Research Scientist. Apply by Jan. 10 at https://loom.ly/ULewNTA

A Southern flying squirrel has been documented in Brownfield Woods for the first time in decades! 🐿️ Bethany Warner, an Animal Sciences undergraduate researcher in the Illinois Natural History Survey Carnivore Ecology Lab, made this exciting discovery using a camera trap as part of her project. Brownfield Woods, a remnant of the Big Grove forest, provides critical habitats for species like the flying squirrel, whose presence reflects a healthy ecosystem. 👉 Find the link to the full story in the comments!

A remarkable rediscovery: the Syrian Spadefoot Toad, a species with an uncertain status, has been confirmed in Syria for the first time in decades. This milestone was achieved through collaboration between Syrian community scientists and researchers from Illinois Natural History Survey at the Prairie Research Institute. Using modern technology and social media, the team documented the elusive species in a war-torn region, showcasing the power of community science to uncover and protect biodiversity. 👉 Check the comments for the link to the full story! 📷 Naeil Khosam and Tammam Helal

"Environmental science isn’t just fieldwork. Office work is just as critical, and we rely on each other to make a difference." – Hannah Anderson, Environmental Data Specialist at Illinois Natural History Survey and Illinois Department of Transportation. Hannah Anderson bridges environmental science and transportation, ensuring sustainability in projects across Illinois. Learn how her journey—from writing environmental justice policies to managing environmental databases—shapes the way we think about transportation and the environment. 📖 Read more in her People of PRI Q&A. Link in the comments! #EnvironmentalScience #Sustainability #Transportation

As the semester comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the incredible #ILLINOIS class field trips that visited the Illinois Natural History Survey collections this fall. These visits are a great reminder of the role biological collections play in studying biodiversity and environmental change, and inspiring the next generation of scientists and science communicators! 🔬🦎 A big thank you to the Dept. of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences professor Eric Larson, School of Earth, Society, and Environment professor Rob Kanter, and others who used our collections in their courses this semester! #biodiversity #naturalhistory

"Enthusiasm goes a long way when it comes to getting jobs in the mining industry." – Josh Smith, economic geologist and research affiliate with Illinois State Geological Survey Joshua Smith’s career has taken him from mining exploration in Nevada to managing the Isotope Geochemistry Lab at the University of Illinois. Learn how Josh applies isotope geochemistry and reflectance spectroscopy to mineral exploration, and get his advice for newcomers in the field. 📖 Read the full Q&A in our People of PRI blog. Link in the comments! #Geochemistry #CriticalMinerals #Mining

📢 Career Opportunity: Bat Survey Field Technician (Hourly) at @Illinois Natural History Survey! We’re seeking 2 field technicians to assist with the Illinois Bat Conservation Program. Duties include acoustic surveys, mist netting, and data processing. Rabies vaccine provided for bat handling. Applications close January 31, 2025. 👉 Find the link to apply in the comments! #NowHiring #BatConservation #FieldResearch

Each year, our understanding of how PFAS and other forever chemicals threaten our public health grows. But our understanding of how we can safeguard public health from these chemicals grows too. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released their 2024 progress report to the PFAS Strategic Roadmap. Check out our blog for highlights from that report, and to find more PFAS resources from the EPA! ⤵️ #PFAS #publichealth #foreverchemicals #PFASpollution

Brooklyn, Illinois, became the first Black town to incorporate in 1873, but its history dates back even further—as a settlement for African Americans escaping slavery and as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Illinois State Archaeological Survey continues to partner with Brooklyn’s community leaders and preservation groups to preserve this historic village's heritage. From archaeological excavations and artifact recovery to public outreach and education, ISAS is helping Brooklyn tell its story and protect its legacy for future generations. Discover how archaeology and collaboration are revitalizing this community’s history. 👉 Check the comments for the link! #BlackHistory #Preservation #Archaeology #HistoricPlaces

Catch up on the latest #sustainability news with the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center ‏Technical Assistance Program (TAP) newsletter for December 2024! 👀 Check it out at https://loom.ly/DmbBKrc #pfas #greenenergy #greenjobs #sustainability