Agricultural​/Food Scientist II

Agricultural/Food Scientist II (Job No: 539833)

Full Time | Gadsden | Department:  - AG-NFREC-QUINCY

• Modify, implement, and conduct laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments related to plant pathology and crop productivity studies.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory, greenhouse, and field research equipment such as growth chambers, irrigation systems, sprayers, and environmental sensors.
• Collect, manage, and analyze data from experiments, ensuring accurate and reliable data and maintaining meticulous records.
• Coordinate multisite field trials, collaborating with faculty, graduate students, and research staff to design and implement trial protocols.
• Organize, summarize, and analyze experimental data to identify trends and support research objectives, and contribute to reports and extension materials.
• Communicate effectively with academic and industry collaborators, stakeholders, and farmers, maintaining relationships and timely information exchange.
• Train, orient, and supervise undergraduate students and support staff on research protocols and standards.
• Manage project-related expenses, purchase supplies and equipment, and assist with university purchasing-card procedures.
• Implement experiments on farmer sites (off‑campus locations); driving required.

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

• Advanced degree in Plant Pathology or other Plant Science.
• Proficiency in conducting laboratory and field research procedures in Plant Pathology.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to record, tabulate, classify, and interpret laboratory results.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• FAA Part 107 certification to operate Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
• Experience operating and maintaining environmental sensor equipment.
• Experience supervising a small staff (2-3 persons).
• Familiarity with precision agriculture technologies and related equipment.
• Experience working within a large research team.

Expected Salary: $55,000 (commensurate with education, skills, and experience).

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.