Biological Scientist I

Apply now Job no: 536480
Work type: Staff Full-Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)
Categories: Biology/Life Science, Veteran's Preference Eligible, Agricultural Sciences
Department:60230000 - AG-HORTICULTURAL SCIENCES

Classification Title:

Biological Scientist I

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

Job Description:

This is a Biological Scientist I position within the Blueberry Breeding Program of the Horticultural Sciences Department at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). The position maintains proper function and organization of the laboratory and conducts molecular biology-related studies within the Cellular and Molecular Biology team. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated basic experience with procedures, methods, and technologies relevant to tissue culture and plant molecular biology. The abilities to multitask effectively and work within a collaborative team environment are essential. Furthermore, strong communication skills are critical for this role. The Biological Scientist I will report to the Principal Investigator and Team Leader, and will collaborate closely with Blueberry Breeding Program managers, as well as graduate students and other staff members, as needed.

Specifically, the principal duties and responsibilities assigned to this position are:

Follow established methods to study the mechanisms of biological processes;

  • Responsible for conducting/executing molecular experiments with techniques consisting of:
    • Gene and vector cloning.
    • Bacterial and plant transformation.
    • Standardization of protoplast isolation and regeneration protocols.
    • Callus induction/propagation.
    • General molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis).
  • Analyzes molecular experiments using existing analysis software. 
  • Compiles data from field studies and generates summaries according to findings.

 

Provide routine maintenance on laboratory equipment;

  • Verify that equipment and instrumentation are maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results.
  • Provide coordination for expanded laboratory facility, which includes maintaining chemical documentation where required, supervising laboratory safety, coordinating and ordering  supplies and equipment.
  • Will be responsible for preparation, and storage of plant materials.
  • Responsible for  organization and disposal of chemical and biohazardous waste.

 

Maintain accurate laboratory records that record research methods, procedures, and results;

  • Prepare and maintain research findings, summaries, logs, and notes.
  • Maintain computer databases; use publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary databases.

Other duties as assigned

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education, skills and experience.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

Preferred:
  • Two years of previous experience in blueberry tissue culture and molecular biology, or closely related area.
  • Understanding of, or ability to learn and apply, basic concepts of genetics and plant breeding.
  • Ability to organize and carry out laboratory research.
Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume. 

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

This is a time-limited position.

This position is eligible for veteran’s preference. If you are claiming veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page for more specific information.

Health Assessment Required: Yes

 

Advertised: Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Eastern Daylight Time

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