Biological Scientist II - Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Classification Title:

Biological Scientist II

Job Description:

The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics is seeking candidates with experience in genetic, molecular, or cell biology research techniques for a Biological Scientist II position to assist researchers in a laboratory focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fatty fibrosis and the development of novel mechanism-based therapeutics. Techniques used in the lab include cell-based assays, mouse husbandry, surgery and tissue harvest, immunofluorescence, imaging, RNA isolation and RT-qPCR. The successful candidate is expected to manage a breeding mouse colony, participate in the planning, logistics, and execution of experiments under the supervision of the principal investigator (PI) and assist the PI in the overall administration of the laboratory operations.

Responsibilities to include:

• Manage animal work. Breeding mouse colony of approx. 50 cages, under the supervision of the PI, for primary neuron culturing including daily monitoring of animal health and well-being, tagging, genotyping by qPCR, maintaining detailed records, and tissue harvest.
• Plan and execute experiments under the supervision of the PI. Assist researchers in performing standard laboratory techniques; perform a wide variety of experiments and experimental analyses. These include behavioral testing, biochemical assays and cell culture work.
• Assist in training postdoctoral scholars and graduate students in methods or procedures and supervising their research activities in the lab. Assist in managing laboratory teams or directing the work of other scientists, technicians, and other workers.
• Participate in the daily operations of the laboratory, including ordering and restocking supplies, glass wash, autoclaving, biohazard trash inactivation and disposal.

Expected Salary:

$35,000 - $39,000

Minimum Requirements:

Doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field; or a master’s degree in biology or a closely related field and one year of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field and three years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Detailed experience with genetic, molecular, and/or cell biology research techniques in a research or clinical laboratory.
• Experience with handling small laboratory animals (rodents) including blood work, injections, tissue harvest.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry, microscopy and image analysis
• Experience in culture of mammalian cells, DNA/RNA extractions and RT-qPCR
• Experience in writing and adhering to procedures and protocols is critical
• Positive attitude to work with a track record of working well with other lab members and performing all work in a safe manner
• The ability to work independently, analyze and present data, multitask, and maintain close communication with the Principal Investigator
• Ability to complete reports in English

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references.

The University of Florida is committed to non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations, genetic information and veteran status in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training.

This is a time-limited position.

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

Health Assessment Required: Yes