Biological Scientist - Corneal Research

Job Description

Nature of Work:
This position typically reports to the principal investigator or a Scientific Researcher on a research project. A Biological Scientist conducts experimental protocols and modifies those protocols to meet research objectives. These protocols involve practical and theoretical knowledge of the specific processes and specialized equipment. The Scientist prepares descriptions of laboratory or field techniques, collects, analyzes, and describes data on research projects.

Work at this level differs from Research Lab Technicians by adapting procedures and summarizing techniques and results. The role is distinct from a Senior Biological Scientist or higher‑level researcher by not regularly determining analysis types or preparing interpretive data for publication. The position may perform a minor amount of administrative duties such as monitoring budgets and drafting administrative forms and reports.

Grant Funded. This position is NOT eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

• Conducts and modifies laboratory research protocols in biological science disciplines such as microbiology, physiology, pathology, ecology, natural resources or botany.
• Adapts protocols and procedures to perform laboratory analyses. Uses instruments appropriate to the research that may require extensive training and both theoretical and practical knowledge to interpret results.
• Performs surgery on animals for experimental purposes including pre‑operative, intra‑operative, and post‑operative procedures.
• Performs and modifies laboratory tests on biological materials using methods such as mammalian tissue culture, radioisotope labeling, electrophoresis of protein and nucleotide samples, bacterial transformation and growth, sequencing and modification of nucleic acids.
• Maintains logs and records of laboratory techniques, observations, findings, and results.
• Maintains project databases. Performs analysis of data using statistical software.
• Instructs undergraduate students in laboratory methods.
• Performs literature searches for appropriate laboratory techniques.
• Maintains laboratory equipment, arranges for repair as necessary, orders and inventories laboratory supplies. May schedule the use of laboratory equipment by others.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science. Progressively responsible experience involving scientific laboratory or field work may be substituted for the required college education on a year‑for‑year basis.
• Senate Bill 1310 – The Florida Senate requires meeting all U.S. employment eligibility requirements. (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).)
• Substitution of work experience for postsecondary education: maximum years: 2 for associate, 4 for bachelor, 6 for master, 7 for professional, 9 for doctoral.
• Work experience may not substitute any required licensure, certification, or registration for this position.
• Minimum qualifications that require only a high‑school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.