OPS - Lab Technician

The Square Lab in the Department of Microbiology and Cell Science at the University of Florida is seeking a highly motivated individual with previous laboratory experience. The main duties of this position will include performing research on the genetic control of tooth and bone development, as well as general lab setup, upkeep, and organization. This position could be full-time or part-time, and hours are somewhat flexible.

Responsibilities:

• Research the genetic mechanisms underlying tooth and bone development by performing experiments with both live and preserved vertebrate animals.
• Help set up and maintain a fish room.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
• Document procedures, results, and findings accurately.
• Produce common-use solutions from established recipes.
• Inventory chemicals.
• Help set up and organize the laboratory.

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is committed to creating an environment of inclusive excellence that affirms diversity across a variety of dimensions. Inclusive excellence is the active process of including and respecting everyone as we strive for excellence and equitable outcomes in all we do at the University of Florida. We particularly welcome applicants who can contribute to such an environment through their scholarship, teaching, mentoring, and professional service. We strongly encourage historically underrepresented groups to apply.

The University of Florida is a Land-Grant, Sea-Grant, and Space-Grant institution, encompassing virtually all academic and professional disciplines, with an enrollment of more than 56,000 students.  UF is a member of The Association of American Universities.  The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Florida Sea Grant program, and encompasses 16 on-campus academic departments and schools, 12 Research and Educational Centers (REC) located throughout the state, 6 Research sites/demonstration units administered by RECs or academic departments, and Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices in all 67 counties (counties operate and maintain). The School of Natural Resources and Environment is an interdisciplinary unit housed in IFAS and managed by several colleges on campus.  UF/IFAS employs nearly 4,500 people, which includes approximately 990 salaried faculty and 1,400 permanent support personnel located in Gainesville and throughout the state. IFAS, one of the nation’s largest agricultural and natural resources research and education organizations, is administered by a Vice President and four deans: the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the Dean for Extension and Director of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, the Dean for Research and Director of the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, and the Dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine.  UF/IFAS also engages in cooperative work with Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.

$15-20/ hour (commensurate with experience) 

• B.S., B.A., or M.S. in Biology or a related field, or a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of lab experience
• Previous molecular biology wet lab experience (preferred: PCR, DNA and RNA extractions, in situ hybridization)

• Basic knowledge of vertebrate developmental biology
• Familiarity with fish husbandry
• Attention to detail, good organizational practices, and thorough documentation of procedures.
• Ability to regularly travel 1-2 miles between campus buildings regardless of weather conditions (using a personal vehicle, bicycle, or UF shuttles)

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, and at least 3 references.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.