Classification Title:
Biological Scientist
Classification Minimum Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, agronomy, plant biology, or a related life science field.
Job Description:
Laboratory research activities: Follow established guidelines and protocols to isolate, purify, and preserve plant pathogens obtained from infected plant tissue. Identify pathogens by using microscopy and molecular biology techniques. Evaluate the effect of chemicals on pathogen growth under in-vitro conditions. Prepare inoculum for greenhouse and field experiments. Receive and process samples from clientele. Comply with UF laboratory safety guidelines and assist team members as needed.
Field research activities: Evaluate disease symptoms in field trials and commercial farms. Monitor/survey for diseases in commercial farms. Collect and process samples for pathogen identification and preservation. Inoculate plants in field trials. Coordinate with the EREC field crew activities related to field trials, such as planting, fertilization, and pest control. Collaborate with technicians from the industry in the establishment and maintenance of on-farm trials. Obtain and maintain a valid restricted-use pesticide license. Assist with pesticide applications. Drive to various field locations to complete the activities and assist team members as needed.
Greenhouse research activities: Ensure maintenance of greenhouses. Grow and maintain plants for experiments, inoculate plants with pathogens, and evaluate disease symptoms. Apply chemicals to seeds, plants, and soil, to test their efficacy in controlling disease development.
Data collection and analysis: Maintain excellent records of research activities; this includes steps for the execution or optimization of protocols and data from laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments (including but not limited to disease incidence, disease severity, onset of symptoms, description of symptoms, colony diameter, pathogen identification, host/cultivar identification). Register data in the appropriate format, including laboratory notebooks and/or electronic files, and conduct basic analysis of data (statistical analysis, area under disease progress curve, dose-response curves, etc.).
Laboratory maintenance: Upkeep of the laboratory, equipment, and supplies. Participate and coordinate the cleaning and organization of the laboratory. Monitor laboratory equipment performance and arrange maintenance or repair as needed. Order and purchase supplies for research and extension activities as requested. Obtain a procurement card for purchasing and follow all regulations and procedures to remain in positive standing. Maintain work vehicles by obtaining vehicle inspections, fueling, and maintaining monthly use logs.
Expected Salary:
$20.67 per hour commensurate with education and experience.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related life science field.
Valid FL driver's license.
Preferred:
A bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, agronomy, plant biology, or a related life science field.
Master of Science in an agriculture-related field. Prior experience (one-year minimum) in one or several of these areas is preferred: microbiology techniques, molecular biology techniques, and/or conducting research under laboratory, greenhouse, or field conditions. Knowledge of statistical software is preferred. Computer skills, such as word processing and spreadsheets, are required. Candidates must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
In order to be considered, you must upload your resume.
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.
This is a time-limited position.
Health Assessment Required: Yes
📌 Biological Scientist I
🏢 University of Florida
📍 Palm Beach