Biological Scientist I

University of Florida

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is located in Belle Glade, FL. The Biological Scientist I will conduct molecular experiments to assess plant pathogens in insects and plants, and assist with insect bioassays and related experiments. Responsibilities include operating, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory equipment, processing and identifying insect and plant samples under a microscope, and maintaining plant and insect colonies. The role also involves maintaining chemical inventory and ensuring compliance with UF laboratory safety guidelines. In the field and greenhouse, the Biological Scientist I will conduct field insect surveys and plant sample collections, support greenhouse trials and data collection, and collect and organize field data. This role requires operating state-approved vehicles to reach external work sites and maintaining driving logs. Interpersonally, the Biological Scientist I will collaborate with graduate students, interns, volunteers, and staff to coordinate work activities, provide training and guidance to researchers and staff, and participate in hiring panels, interviews, and onboarding new hires under PI guidance. Additionally, the role involves sourcing, purchasing, and managing supplies, as well as reviewing and editing presentations, manuscripts, and grant reports. The position requires keeping up to date on UF required training and performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in entomology, biology, plant pathology, or closely related life science field.
Valid Florida driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in entomology, biology or a closely related field.
Prior experience in insect bioassays, molecular techniques, conducting field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments.
Good computer skills (word processing, spreadsheet).
Motivation to learn new skills.

Responsibilities

Conduct molecular experiments to assess plant pathogens in insects and plants.
Help conduct insect bioassays and related experiments.
Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment.
Process insect and plant samples, count and identify insects under a microscope.
Maintain plant and insect colonies.
Maintain chemical inventory and ensure compliance with UF laboratory safety guidelines.
Conduct field insect surveys and plant sample collections, coordinating dates and routes.
Support greenhouse trials and data collection.
Collect and organize field data for subsequent analysis.
Operate state approved vehicles to reach external work sites and maintain driving logs.
Collaborate with graduate students, student interns, volunteers, OPS, and TEAMS employees to coordinate work activities in labs, greenhouses, and fields.
Provide training and guidance to new graduate level researchers and laboratory staff.
Participate in hiring panels, conduct interviews, and onboard new hires under PI guidance.
Source, purchase, and manage procurement of laboratory, greenhouse, and field supplies.
Review, edit, and proofread presentations, manuscripts, and grant reports for students and PI.
Keep up to date on UF required training.
Other duties as assigned.