| Classification Minimum Requirements |
Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area.
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| Job Description: |
Provide support to faculty members in research projects involving ruminant species, primarily beef cattle, but potentially including dairy cattle, buffaloes, and small ruminants. Typical duties include:
- Plan and participate in research projects.
- Performance of various biochemical and molecular biological analyses using a variety of equipment dependent on the research objectives and experimental design established in conjunction with the faculty member, i.e, ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
- Standardization of methods and develop new procedures applicable to the experimental and research protocols of laboratory users.
- Assist in grant proposal preparation, literature searches, retrieval of material, data collection, processing, basic statistical evaluation, and assistance with preparation of manuscripts.
- Assist in working with computer applications, i.e., basic word processing, graphics, slide preparation, statistical programs and data management programs, including gene expression, omics and “big-data”.
- Collaborate in data and sample collection and other field activities, including but not limited to: rectal palpation and ultrasonography, collection of biological material (i.e.: blood, biopcies, cells, etc.), feeding animals, among others.
- Collaborate with faculty and fellow researchers to optimize research goals.
- Coordinates special studies or projects as directed.
Manage a Multi-Principle Investigator Laboratory
- Maintenance of laboratory equipment and laboratory physical area, including ordering supplies, equipment and inventory record keeping.
- Coordinate with research staff on issues which impact laboratory services/research.
- Maintain liaison with investigators, research personnel and staff to solve specific operating problems and improve technical activities.
- Acts as an advisor to meet schedules and/or resolve technical problems.
- Administer and coordinate the technical activities, educational programs, and infrastructure related to the operation of laboratory.
- Perform duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions of the laboratory area.
- Recommends, drafts and implements operating policies and procedures.
- Assist in the interpretation and implementation of laboratory policies and procedures.
- Insure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained and applied.
- Coordinate and maintain EHS standards of oversight and safety for all laboratory area, specialized scientific or hazardous materials stores.
- Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
- Maintain inventory and maintenance of sensitive scientific materials/instruments.
- Research and evaluate new products and equipment, compare and negotiate vendor prices.
- Prepare and monitor operating budget. Recommend purchases.
- Use purchasing card and purchase orders as per policies and regulations.
- Directs the maintenance program for laboratory equipment.
- Coordinates scientific services with faculty using the lab. Interact with laboratory personnel, faculty, staff and students in a spirit of cooperation.
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| Required Qualifications: |
Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area.
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| Preferred |
- Knowledge of principles of chemistry, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology and cell culture.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and properly document procedures
- Ability to perform ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
- Manual dexterity and expertise in the setup operation and maintenance of equipment.
- Skill in use of standard and specialized laboratory equipment and basic laboratory procedures.
- Skills in the use of various computerized laboratory equipment.
- Ability to maintain accurate lab records and to handle data efficiently
- Laboratory maintenance: maintain lab in good order, maintain supplies and equipment, review and update safety and compliance requirements
- Develop research design and methods and conduct these experiments in the laboratory
- Write reports and scientific papers that describe and interpret research findings
- Proficient with Microsoft Office-Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
- Work cooperatively with other research labs at the University of Florida and elsewhere
- Ability to effectively work with co-workers, to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
- Ability to communicate with co-workers, professional staff, residents and clinicians.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Independent acquisition of advanced technical skills and computer applications.
- Experience with large animals, including sample collection and anatomical knowledge.
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