Biological Scientist III - Neurodegenerative Disease Pathogenesis

Classification Title:

Biological Scientist III

Job Description:

The laboratory of Dr. Malú Tansey in the Department of Neuroscience and Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease is seeking candidates for a senior biological scientist position. Incumbent will have primary responsibility for design, execution, and data analysis of biochemical studies related to neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis in support of multiple private foundation and NIH-funded projects in collaboration with the primary investigator. Additionally, this position will play a key role in helping to manage day-to-day functions of the laboratory.

Responsibilities to include:

Design, implement, and validate multiple studies, in collaboration with the primary investigator, focusing on a number of disease-associated genes or signaling pathways or processes and their role in various neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or Frontotemporal Dementia. The studies will involve cell culture, biochemistry, immunohistology/microscopy, flow cytometry, animal work, and behavioral testing conducted independently by the scientist.

Provide consultation, train, and supervise other members of the laboratory to perform the above procedures in conjunction with various studies. The incumbent is expected to perform at a senior level and contribute independent research expertise to the laboratory research mission and to assist other team members.

Maintain all procedures and documents required as part of good laboratory practice, including quality control and quality assurance. General lab maintenance including ordering lab supplies and maintaining equipment/facility records, along with other lab members. Incumbent may also train visiting/junior staff including graduate and undergraduate students involved in research.

Expected Salary:

$55,000-$67,000

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field and seven years of experience in the field or in a related area; or master’s degree in biology or a closely related field and five years of experience in the field or in a related area; or a doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field and two years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Preferred Qualifications:

The preferred candidate will have a master’s or doctoral degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, neuroscience or a related field with at least five years of experience in neurodegenerative disease research, or related background.

The successful candidate’s skills should include DNA and RNA extractions, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time quantitative PCR, sequencing (Sanger and high-throughput analyses), electrophoresis, confocal microscopy, high-content imaging. Experience with genetic and molecular biology instrumentation and software’s is advantageous; knowledge of basic human genetics and molecular and cellular biology is required. The ability to work independently, analyze and present data, multitask, and maintain close communication with the Supervisor/Director is required. Ideal candidate will also possess survival surgical expertise and BSL2+ or BSL3 experience.

Excellent teamwork and communication skills are essential. Good organizational skills, detail oriented, sound degree of computer literacy, ability to methodically record data and to analyze data using basic statistics, ability to perform a variety of routine tasks and prioritize work, good interpersonal and communication skills, ability to demonstrate professionalism.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

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

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 requisition has been reposted. Previous applicants are still under consideration and need not apply.

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