Biological Scientist II

University of Florida•Gainesville, FL

5d•$54,000 - $59,000•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves advanced research projects primarily focusing on RNA-scope of neurons and wide-field microscopy. The role requires planning, designing, conducting, and modifying research projects to align with research goals, and searching scientific literature to refine procedures. Responsibilities include performing recombinant DNA techniques, protein biochemistry, cell culture, and cellular biology experiments. The position also involves acting as a liaison, coordinating research projects, assisting with laboratory coordination and equipment maintenance, and training junior personnel. Maintaining accurate records, managing grant funding, and analyzing data for scientific publications are also key aspects of this role. The scientist will work with a degree of independence under general supervision, with potential supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience
Master's degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience.
Recombinant DNA techniques, including isolation and purification of plasmid DNA, restriction enzymatic analysis of DNA, PCR, qPCR, bacterial transformations, agarose gel electrophoresis, and transformation.
Protein Biochemistry, including SDS-PAGE, Western Blotting and ELISA.
Mammalian cell transfections.
Mammalian cell culture techniques.
Confocal and wide-field microscopy.
Accurate record keeping and legal documentation.
Understanding of and compliance with required laboratory regulations, including ACS, EH&S, IACUC, UF, State, and Federal guidelines.

Nice To Haves

Extensive experience with RNA scope, protein chemistry, and sterile cell culture of mammalian cells.
Demonstrated ability to modify, implement, and troubleshoot experimental protocols with minimal supervision.
Experience analyzing experimental data with statistical models.
Experience training or overseeing junior laboratory personnel.

Responsibilities

Plan, design, conduct, and modify advanced research projects primarily involving RNA-scope of neurons and wide-field microscopy, ensuring execution aligns with research goals.
Search scientific literature to refine procedures in line with research objectives.
Perform recombinant DNA techniques, including isolation and purification of plasmid DNA, restriction enzymatic analysis of DNA, PCR, qPCR, bacterial transformations, agarose gel electrophoresis, and transformation.
Perform Protein Biochemistry, including SDS-PAGE, Western Blotting and ELISA.
Conduct all research in line with quality and safety standards.
Design and perform research experiments investigating mechanisms of action of channel-interfering compounds in rodent nociceptors, including the study of live specimens under controlled laboratory conditions.
Perform mammalian cell transfections and mammalian cell culture techniques, confocal and wide-field microscopy.
Modify computational and analytical techniques as needed to meet research objectives.
Act as a liaison between the PI/Director, lab staff, and collaborators within UF and externally.
Coordinate activities for ongoing government- and privately funded research projects and assist with special studies or projects as assigned.
Assist in laboratory coordination and equipment maintenance.
Support the training of junior laboratory personnel and students.
Ensure understanding of and compliance with required laboratory regulations, including ACS, EH&S, IACUC, UF, State, and Federal guidelines.
Maintain accurate records and legal documentation in line with institutional policies, such as biological and chemical safety policies.
Support the ordering process to promote efficient and cost-effective use of grant funding.
Maintain lab supply inventory for scheduled research projects.
Assist with researching products and comparing vendor prices.
Analyze data using appropriate statistical models and adjust research designs based on findings.
Assemble results for scientific publications, grants, and conference presentations.
Contribute to research papers, reports, and scholarly articles.
Manage accurate and complete laboratory research records and prepare written reports of experimental results.
Conduct searches for and review of scientific literature relevant to the research focus of the laboratory.
Develop and troubleshoot new research and laboratory protocols.
Engage in continuous learning and adjust to evolving research needs.
Work with a degree of independence under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator, following standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the biological field; seeking guidance from the Principal Investigator for complex issues.
Supervise and train Biological Scientist I staff, OPS laboratory technicians, and student assistants as assigned.