Agricultural/Food Scientist II

University of Florida•Jackson, MS

33d

About The Position

Provide support to faculty members in research projects involving ruminant species, primarily beef cattle, but potentially including dairy cattle, buffaloes, and small ruminants. Typical duties include: Plan and participate in research projects. Performance of various biochemical and molecular biological analyses using a variety of equipment dependent on the research objectives and experimental design established in conjunction with the faculty member, i.e, ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc. Standardization of methods and develop new procedures applicable to the experimental and research protocols of laboratory users. Assist in grant proposal preparation, literature searches, retrieval of material, data collection, processing, basic statistical evaluation, and assistance with preparation of manuscripts. Assist in working with computer applications, i.e., basic word processing, graphics, slide preparation, statistical programs and data management programs, including gene expression, omics and “big-data”. Collaborate in data and sample collection and other field activities, including but not limited to: rectal palpation and ultrasonography, collection of biological material (i.e.: blood, biopcies, cells, etc.), feeding animals, among others. Collaborate with faculty and fellow researchers to optimize research goals. Coordinates special studies or projects as directed. Manage a Multi-Principle Investigator Laboratory Maintenance of laboratory equipment and laboratory physical area, including ordering supplies, equipment and inventory record keeping. Coordinate with research staff on issues which impact laboratory services/research. Maintain liaison with investigators, research personnel and staff to solve specific operating problems and improve technical activities. Acts as an advisor to meet schedules and/or resolve technical problems. Administer and coordinate the technical activities, educational programs, and infrastructure related to the operation of laboratory. Perform duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions of the laboratory area. Recommends, drafts and implements operating policies and procedures. Assist in the interpretation and implementation of laboratory policies and procedures. Insure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained and applied. Coordinate and maintain EHS standards of oversight and safety for all laboratory area, specialized scientific or hazardous materials stores. Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Maintain inventory and maintenance of sensitive scientific materials/instruments. Research and evaluate new products and equipment, compare and negotiate vendor prices. Prepare and monitor operating budget. Recommend purchases. Use purchasing card and purchase orders as per policies and regulations. Directs the maintenance program for laboratory equipment. Coordinates scientific services with faculty using the lab. Interact with laboratory personnel, faculty, staff and students in a spirit of cooperation.

Requirements

Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of principles of chemistry, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology and cell culture.
Ability to follow standard operating procedures and properly document procedures
Ability to perform ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
Manual dexterity and expertise in the setup operation and maintenance of equipment.
Skill in use of standard and specialized laboratory equipment and basic laboratory procedures.
Skills in the use of various computerized laboratory equipment.
Ability to maintain accurate lab records and to handle data efficiently
Laboratory maintenance: maintain lab in good order, maintain supplies and equipment, review and update safety and compliance requirements
Develop research design and methods and conduct these experiments in the laboratory
Write reports and scientific papers that describe and interpret research findings
Proficient with Microsoft Office-Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
Work cooperatively with other research labs at the University of Florida and elsewhere
Ability to effectively work with co-workers, to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
Ability to communicate with co-workers, professional staff, residents and clinicians.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Independent acquisition of advanced technical skills and computer applications.
Experience with large animals, including sample collection and anatomical knowledge.

Responsibilities

Plan and participate in research projects.
Performance of various biochemical and molecular biological analyses using a variety of equipment dependent on the research objectives and experimental design established in conjunction with the faculty member, i.e, ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
Standardization of methods and develop new procedures applicable to the experimental and research protocols of laboratory users.
Assist in grant proposal preparation, literature searches, retrieval of material, data collection, processing, basic statistical evaluation, and assistance with preparation of manuscripts.
Assist in working with computer applications, i.e., basic word processing, graphics, slide preparation, statistical programs and data management programs, including gene expression, omics and “big-data”.
Collaborate in data and sample collection and other field activities, including but not limited to: rectal palpation and ultrasonography, collection of biological material (i.e.: blood, biopcies, cells, etc.), feeding animals, among others.
Collaborate with faculty and fellow researchers to optimize research goals.
Coordinates special studies or projects as directed.
Manage a Multi-Principle Investigator Laboratory Maintenance of laboratory equipment and laboratory physical area, including ordering supplies, equipment and inventory record keeping.
Coordinate with research staff on issues which impact laboratory services/research.
Maintain liaison with investigators, research personnel and staff to solve specific operating problems and improve technical activities.
Acts as an advisor to meet schedules and/or resolve technical problems.
Administer and coordinate the technical activities, educational programs, and infrastructure related to the operation of laboratory.
Perform duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions of the laboratory area.
Recommends, drafts and implements operating policies and procedures.
Assist in the interpretation and implementation of laboratory policies and procedures.
Insure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained and applied.
Coordinate and maintain EHS standards of oversight and safety for all laboratory area, specialized scientific or hazardous materials stores.
Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
Maintain inventory and maintenance of sensitive scientific materials/instruments.
Research and evaluate new products and equipment, compare and negotiate vendor prices.
Prepare and monitor operating budget.
Recommend purchases.
Use purchasing card and purchase orders as per policies and regulations.
Directs the maintenance program for laboratory equipment.
Coordinates scientific services with faculty using the lab.
Interact with laboratory personnel, faculty, staff and students in a spirit of cooperation.