Biological Scientist II

Overview

The Biological Scientist II role involves managing insect colonies within controlled laboratory and quarantine settings to ensure their health and productivity while maintaining compliance with all relevant guidelines. This position requires oversight of field and laboratory teams in the Principal Investigator's absence, ensuring seamless operation and conformity with research protocols. Maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment in laboratories, greenhouses, and research spaces is crucial, including responsibilities for disinfecting and upkeep of equipment and clean rooms.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and monitor insect colonies to support research activities in both quarantine and non-quarantine labs.
• Supervise laboratory and field personnel when the Principal Investigator is unavailable, supporting operational continuity and adherence to study protocols.
• Conduct laboratory and field research, performing experimental procedures, data collection, monitoring progress, statistical analysis, and documenting research outcomes thoroughly.
• With PI approval, adapt research protocols to enhance scientific techniques.
• Travel to field sites and operate University and State vehicles to facilitate research tasks and field operations.
• Compile, analyze, summarize, and document data related to experiments and insect colony statuses, including report writing.
• Manage procurement, inventory, and inspection of laboratory and field supplies and equipment.
• Support Extension programs and community outreach events including educational activities and stakeholder engagement, utilizing appropriate transportation as needed.
• Perform additional assigned duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related discipline with a minimum of three years' relevant experience; or a Master’s degree with at least one year of applicable experience.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and a Florida Pesticide Applicator License.
• Preferred qualifications include expertise in insect biology, colony maintenance, general lab techniques, GIS, and statistical data analysis.
• Experience conducting both laboratory and field scientific research, ideally in quarantine lab environments complying with biosafety and regulatory standards.
• Educational background in biology, entomology, environmental science or closely related fields.

Additional Information

• This is a time-limited, grant-funded position under TEAMS, focused on performing laboratory procedures.
• The position is exclusively available to current University of Florida employees.
• The candidate must reside locally to ensure timely care for live insect colonies and be able to report to work on short notice.
• Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and resume for consideration.
• A health assessment is mandatory for employment.

Compensation

The expected annual salary for this position is $53,000.