Biological Scientist III

Biological Scientist III – The University of Florida

Job No: 538249

Work Type: Full Time

Location: Polk

Categories: Biology/Life Science, Agricultural Sciences

Department:  - AG-CREC-PLANT PATHOLOGY

As a senior biological scientist, you will undertake research on the foundational principles of plant and animal life, focusing on plant pathologies relevant to citrus and alternative crops. Your responsibilities include designing and conducting studies on the epidemiology and control of fungal and bacterial diseases, performing advanced statistical analyses, and supervising lab operations and personnel.

• Fungal/oomycete diseases of citrus and alternative crops: independently supervise experiments on epidemiology and control of fungal pathogens, study environmental effects on disease, develop prediction models, and conduct fungicide evaluations using microscopy, conventional, and molecular techniques.
• Supervise lab operations: oversee learning of techniques for graduate students and postdoctoral associates, purchase supplies, maintain stock cultures and pathogen isolate database, supervise part‑time employees, ensure lab follows permit procedures and service laboratory equipment, and write/update standard operating protocols.
• Diagnose diseases in specimens brought in by growers and extension personnel using conventional and molecular techniques; conduct and modify pathogenicity tests when appropriate.
• Bacterial diseases of citrus and alternative crops: independently design and conduct research on the epidemiology and control of bacterial diseases using conventional and molecular techniques.
• Conduct advanced statistical analyses of data; prepare tables and graphs for publication; co-author publications both as lead and junior author.
• Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

$53,058.41 commensurate with education and experience.

• Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and seven years of experience.
• Master's degree in biology or a related field with five years of experience.
• Doctoral degree in biology or related field with two years of experience.

• Ability to independently conduct biological research using scientific methodology.
• Ability to plan, organize, supervise, communicate, and coordinate work assignments.
• Understanding of statistical methods and ability to apply them using computers to compile and analyze data.
• Skill in the use of scientific laboratory and field equipment.

In order to be considered, you must upload your resume. The application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) on the posting end date.

18 January 2026

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The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S.
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