Senior Research Scientist in Spatial AI and Data Science

College of Liberal Arts & SciencesUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Job SummaryThe Research Scientist will lead and contribute to research and development in spatial artificial intelligence (AI) and data science at the CyberGIS Center for Advanced Digital and Spatial Studies. The position focuses on advancing spatial AI methods, scalable geospatial data science, and innovative applications that address complex geospatial problems. Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct original research in spatial AI, geospatial data science, and their integration for solving real-world geospatial problems
• Design, develop, and implement advanced algorithms, models, and software tools for spatial data analysis, machine learning, and AI-driven geospatial applications
• Lead and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects involving spatial big data, high-performance computing, and cloud-based geospatial analytics
• Develop and maintain reproducible workflows, code repositories, technical documentation, and project reports
• Mentor and supervise graduate students and academic hourly staff involved in spatial AI and data science projects
• Provide technical support, training, and guidance to faculty, staff, and collaborators on spatial AI and data science capabilities
• Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and meetings; contribute to scholarly publications and proposals
• Engage with external partners and stakeholders to foster collaborations and translate research outcomes into impactful applications
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in computer science, geographic information science, geography, information sciences, engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in spatial AI, geospatial data science, or related fields.
• Three years or more of programming experience with languages such as Python, C/C++, or Java.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn) and geospatial libraries (e.g., GDAL, GeoPandas).
• Experience managing or supervising research teams.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with commercial and/or open-source GIS tools and technologies.
• Experience in parallel computing (e.g., MPI, Spark) and/or cloud computing (e.g., AWS, OpenStack).

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• Ability to interact effectively with people from a wide range of scientific and engineering backgrounds.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in spatial data science and AI.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to interact effectively with people from a wide range of scientific and engineering backgrounds.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive and innovative research environment.
  
  

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the deadline date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $72-80,000. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee. Hybrid work options may be available for this position, with the ability to be on-site at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign campus as needed per the University’s Workplace Flexibility policy.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

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Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on March 24, 2026. To apply for this position, please create a candidate profile at https://jobs.illinois.edu and use the Apply Now button on the posting. Upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three professional references.Please remember to include specific information on how you meet the qualifications of the position in your application materials. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered.

For further information about this specific position, please contact lascollegehiring@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits . This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

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. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal , or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu .

Requisition ID: 1035485

Job Category: Research

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu