This is a Biological Scientist position located in Gainesville, FL working in the Blueberry Breeding and Genomics Lab. Responsibilities include conducting and maintaining detailed research procedures and results, engaging in continuous learning, and adjusting to evolving research needs. The incumbent will implement and refines different delivery strategies to improve blueberry transformation and gene editing experiments. Responsible for supporting laboratory management, including inspection of designated lab equipment and areas, keeping inventory updated, keep laboratory records, and managing chemical and biological waste. Participate in writing and editing manuscripts and reports.
Laboratory Experimental Procedures: Perform experiments for blueberry projects to study the implementation and standardization of different delivery strategies for plant transformation. This work would include identifying suitable bacterial strains for T-DNA delivery, assessment of antibiotic lethality in plants and bacteria, transient and stable transformation assays, germplasm screening for plant regenerative capacity, and CRISPR-Cas reagents testing. Expected to keep detailed lab records and participating in the development of presentations of experimental results. Search scientific literature to refine procedures for research as well as maintain records of the experiments conducted. The position will also involve plant care and maintenance, PCR, qRTPCR, RNA/DNA extractions, electrophoresis and microscopy.
Laboratory Management and Daily Operations: Oversee the maintenance of lab equipment by keeping inventory updated, purchasing lab and office supplies, maintaining laboratory safety programs, keeping laboratory records, preparing reagents, and managing chemical and biological waste. Stays up to date with advances in lab equipment technology and makes recommendations for new equipment.
Research: Contribute to research papers by participating in writing and editing manuscripts and reports.
Training: Training and assisting lab personnel in general laboratory procedures, including undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists.
Other duties as assigned