Biological Scientist I

Classification Title:

Biological Scientist I

Job Description:

Conducts research to support the Citrus/Plant Pathology program at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center located in Immokalee, FL. Will assist in one or more phases of the research process by performing a variety of technical duties in the laboratory, greenhouse and field. Responsibilities require driving a vehicle to different work sites. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Preparing, maintaining and monitoring experimental trials in the laboratory, greenhouse and field; collecting experimental data such as plant pest and pathogen, plant health, plant growth, fruit yield, and fruit quality; collecting and preparing leaf, root, fruit, or other types of samples for laboratory analysis. Will occasionally apply pesticides.
• Conducting various standard and specialized laboratory procedures such as sample preparation and homogenization, pathogen isolation, DNA/RNA extraction/purification/quantification, gel electrophoresis, PCR and quantitative PCR, cloning, biological and enzymatic assays, culturing; maintaining specialized scientific or other equipment in and outside the laboratory; preparing microbiological media and chemical solutions; maintaining written and digital laboratory notebooks, maintaining laboratory in a way that work can be accomplished safely and efficiently.
• Recording, analyzing and summarizing data and preparing graphs and labels using standard or specialized software.
• Assisting in the preparation of written reports and publications and reviewing literature pertinent to the research area as deemed appropriate by the P.I.
• Assisting with any related duties required, including purchases of supplies and services, as determined by the P.I. May also be required to visit fields off-site which will require driving a University vehicle.

Expected Salary:

Salary is commensurate with education and experience

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field. Must have a valid driver's license. Must have a Florida pesticide applicator license or the ability to get one within three months from date of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on appropriate experience or one or more years of specialized experience.
• Knowledge of the terminology, principles of plant pathology and/or biology
• Knowledge of agricultural production systems to include citrus and vegetables
• Knowledge of standard laboratory practices
• Skill in various standard laboratory procedures such as pipetting, sample homogenization, and DNR/RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, bacteria/fungal culturing, maintaining detailed records from experiments
• Skill in various specialized laboratory practices such as Real Time, PCR ELISA, blotting and hybridization, next generation sequencing
• Ability to process large numbers of samples in an adequate time frame
• Ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and statistical analysis software such as R or SAS, bioinformatics tools
• Knowledge of principles of statistics and experimental design
• Ability to plan and coordinate research assignments effectively
• Ability to adhere to safe laboratory and other practices
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to establish an effective working relationship with others
• Ability to follow rules and regulations

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume, and copy of unofficial transcripts

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

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