JOB NO:

540527

WORK TYPE:

Staff Full-Time

LOCATION:

Polk

CATEGORIES:

Biology/Life Science, Grant or Research Administration, Veteran's Preference Eligible, Agricultural Sciences, Agriculture Operations

DEPARTMENT:

60733000 - AG-CREC-HORTICULTURE

CLASSIFICATION TITLE:

Biological Scientist I

CLASSIFICATION MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments. Run laboratory equipment to make DNA and RNA analysis determinations. Perform controlled citrus crosses (emasculation, pollination, bagging) and track parentage and seed lots. Collect and process tissues; extract high-quality DNA/RNA; synthesize cDNA as needed. Execute PCR and qPCR assays; run and document gel electrophoresis; maintain contamination-aware workflows. Assist with phenotyping, seedling propagation, tagging/labeling, and sample barcoding.

Makes data entries in Excel sheets and necessary spreadsheets on the lab drive.



Enter and QC genotype/phenotype data using standardized templates. Maintain sample inventories; back up data to the lab drive. Notifies the lab supervisor of these processes. Analyze data and produce preliminary tabular and graphical displays of data collected. Writes bi-weekly reports regarding work completed.

Ensures research protocols are followed properly and carefully executed. Adhere to SOPs, biosafety, and chemical/pesticide handling guidelines; maintain PPE and waste-disposal compliance. Calibrate instruments; implement positive/negative controls and replicates; maintain chain-of-custody for samples. Assists with the procurement of lab supplies. Ensures all instrumentation is working properly. Monitor inventory and reorder as needed; track deliveries and lot numbers. Perform routine lab maintenance, cleaning, and maintain equipment logs. Prepare common reagents and buffers; label and store according to SOPs.

EXPECTED SALARY:

$22.03/hr

REQUIRED QUALIFIC

📌 Biological Scientist I (La Florida)
🏢 University of Florida
📍 La Florida