Biological Scientist II

Biological Scientist II

Manages insect colonies in both quarantine and non-quarantine laboratory environments, ensuring colony health, productivity, and compliance with applicable protocols. Provides oversight and direction to field and laboratory personnel in the absence of the Principal Investigator (PI), ensuring continuity of operations and adherence to research protocols. Ensures clean, organized, and safe laboratory, greenhouse, and research work spaces. Responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining clean rooms and equipment.

Conducts laboratory and field research activities, including the implementation of experimental procedures, data collection, and monitoring of study progress. Records observations, takes measurements, conducts appropriate statistical analysis, and maintains detailed research procedures and results. With the approval of the PI, modifies existing research protocols to improve existing techniques. Travels to research sites and operates University and State vehicles as required to support field operations and research activities.

Compiles, summarizes, analyzes, and reports data related to laboratory and field experiments, as well as insect colony health, production, and performance. Writes out reports based on research findings.

Coordinates the procurement of laboratory and field supplies, including ordering, receiving, inspecting, and maintaining inventories of materials and equipment. Supports receipt and inspection of raw materials, and ordering and stocking of materials and equipment.

Assists with Extension programs, community outreach initiatives, educational events, and stakeholder engagement activities. Operates University and State vehicles as needed to support outreach and Extension functions.

Expected Salary: $53,000

Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience or Master's degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience. Valid driver's license. Valid Florida Pesticide Applicator License.

Demonstrated experience with insect biology, insect colony maintenance and rearing, general laboratory techniques, geographic information systems (GIS), and statistical analysis. Experience conducting both laboratory- and field-based scientific research and experiments is required. Experience working in quarantine laboratory environments and adhering to associated regulatory and biosafety protocols is preferred. Degree in biology, entomology, environmental science, or a closely related field.