Biological Scientist II

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

About The Position

The .75 FTE Biological Scientist II position provides intermediate laboratory, data management, and analytical support for ecological research projects led by three faculty members. This position involves conducting molecular experiments, managing PHP/SQL databases, applying statistical models, and automating data analysis workflows for contract reporting. The role supports research in areas such as molecular ecology, population modeling, spatial and theoretical ecology, wildlife disease, biogeography, and wildlife biology. This is a time-limited appointment dependent upon external funding; extension of position is possible should additional funding become available. Conduct Laboratory Experiments This position plays a central role in supporting molecular and ecological research by performing a wide range of laboratory experiments. The employee will prepare biological samples for downstream molecular analyses, including DNA/RNA extraction, purification, and quality assessment using established protocols. The role involves carrying out next‑generation sequencing workflows such as library preparation, indexing, and sequencing runs using advanced molecular platforms. The employee will operate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment—including thermocyclers, sequencers, and spectrophotometers—to ensure accurate and reliable results. Meticulous documentation of all procedures, observations, and outcomes in laboratory notebooks is essential to ensure research reproducibility and compliance with university and sponsor standards. The position also requires adherence to UF Environmental Health & Safety guidelines and maintaining a clean, organized work environment. Field duties include driving a large work truck over long distances and on off‑road terrain to reach research sites and collect samples. Automate Data Analysis and Reporting This position supports research productivity by developing and enhancing automated workflows for data analysis and reporting. The employee will modify existing scripts and pipelines to streamline repetitive tasks, reduce manual effort, and ensure consistent processing across studies. They will implement automated solutions for recurring analytical needs associated with grant‑funded projects, contractual deliverables, and regulatory reporting. Close collaboration with faculty and research staff is essential to ensure accurate, timely delivery of data summaries, progress updates, and final reports. The employee is expected to continuously evaluate automation approaches, recommend improvements, and implement efficiencies that strengthen research operations and reduce error rates. Implement and Maintain Databases The employee will develop, implement, and maintain relational databases that support large and complex ecological and molecular datasets. Using PHP and SQL, the incumbent will design and refine database structures, ensuring data are well organized, accessible, and secure. Responsibilities include maintaining intuitive web‑based interfaces that allow researchers to enter, retrieve, and visualize data effectively. The position monitors system performance, troubleshoots technical issues, and optimizes database queries for speed and scalability. Ensuring data integrity, consistent backups, and compliance with UF and sponsor data‑management requirements is a critical component of this role. Analyze Data Using Statistical Models This position contributes to research objectives by applying advanced statistical models to ecological and genomic datasets. The employee will use statistical software such as R and Python to process raw data, perform quality checks, and conduct analyses using regression models, mixed‑effects approaches, and spatial modeling techniques. They will generate high‑quality visualizations, figures, and summary tables for inclusion in scientific publications, presentations, and sponsor reports. The employee will also document all analytical workflows and maintain version‑controlled scripts to ensure transparency, reproducibility, and long‑term usability of analytical processes across research projects.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience or Master’s degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience.
Valid Florida driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Experience with molecular laboratory techniques, including sequencing and library preparation.
Proficiency in PHP, SQL, and web-based database systems.
Experience with R, Python, or other statistical programming languages.
Knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis tools.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.