Agricultural​/Food Scientist II

Agricultural/Food Scientist II

Job No: 538056
Work Type: Full Time
Location: Jackson
Categories: Biology/Life Science, Grant or Research Administration, Agricultural Sciences
Department:  - AG-NFREC-QUINCY

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.
• Perform various biochemical and molecular biological analyses using a variety of equipment dependent on the research objectives and experimental design, e.g., ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end‑point and real‑time), Western blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunohistochemistry, Immunofluorescence, and sperm count.
• Standardize methods and develop new procedures applicable to laboratory protocols.
• Assist in grant proposal preparation, literature searches, retrieval of material, data collection, processing, basic statistical evaluation, and manuscript preparation.
• Support computer applications, such as basic word processing, graphics, slide preparation, statistical programs, data management programs, gene expression, omics, and “big‑data”.
• Collaborate in data and sample collection and other field activities, including rectal palpation, ultrasonography, collection of biological material (blood, biopsies, cells, etc.), feeding animals, and related tasks.
• Collaborate with faculty and researchers to optimize research goals.
• Coordinate special studies or projects as directed.

• Maintain laboratory equipment and physical area, including ordering supplies, equipment, and inventory record‑keeping.
• Coordinate with research staff on issues that impact laboratory services and research.
• Maintain liaison with investigators, research personnel, and staff to solve specific operating problems and improve technical activities.
• Act as an advisor to meet schedules and resolve technical problems.
• Administer and coordinate technical activities, educational programs, and infrastructure related to laboratory operation.
• Perform duties as required to accomplish laboratory responsibilities.
• Recommend, draft, and implement operating policies and procedures.
• Assist in the interpretation and implementation of laboratory policies.
• Ensure Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained, and applied.
• Coordinate and maintain EHS standards and safety for all laboratory areas, specialized scientific and hazardous materials stores.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
• Maintain inventory and maintenance of sensitive scientific materials and 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 per policies and regulations.
• Direct the maintenance program for laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate scientific services with faculty using the lab and interact with laboratory personnel, faculty, staff, and students cooperatively.

$46,000 commensurate with education and experience

Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master's degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field plus one year of experience; or bachelor's degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field plus three years of experience.

• Knowledge of principles of chemistry, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell culture.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and document them properly.
• Experience performing ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR, Western blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunohistochemistry, Immunofluorescence, and sperm count.
• Manual dexterity and expertise in setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment.
• Skill in using standard and specialized laboratory equipment and basic procedures.
• Proficiency in various computerized laboratory equipment.
• Ability to maintain accurate lab records and handle data efficiently.
• Maintain laboratory in good order, supplies, equipment,…