Biological Scientist II

Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

Department: PH-CELL AND SYS PHARM

Classification: Biological Scientist II

About the role

This position supports the laboratory research of Dr. Catherine Marcinkiewcz. The lab studies Alzheimer's disease, alcohol use disorder, pain sensitivity, and other neuroscience and pharmacology issues, using mouse models.

Responsibilities

• Perform research activities (including mouse behavioral tests, mouse tissue collection, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, PCR, mouse stereotaxic surgeries, and other procedures) based on protocols developed by the PI.
• Utilize multiplexed methods, including behavioral assays, genetic manipulations, molecular biology, electrophysiology, and 2D and 3D imaging.
• Conduct behavioral experiments and data analysis while training personnel to conduct experiments, coordinating their activities and schedules, and managing administrative duties related to the laboratory.
• As individual skills develop, troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; develop and implement procedures; may present results at team meetings.
• Collect and track data, perform data entry for reports, and maintain records.
• Process and analyze data, using software programs like Excel and GraphPad Prism.
• Support research projects by coordinating laboratory activities and assisting with study timelines.
• Prepare and maintain research compliance documentation, including IACUC, Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), and other required protocols and amendments.
• Maintain documentation to support compliance with institutional, federal, and laboratory safety requirements.
• Work with principal investigators, laboratory personnel, and regulatory offices to support research activities and laboratory inspections.
• Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of lab equipment.
• Assist with procurement of supplies and materials; may initiate purchase requests, monitor accounts/expenditures, and reconcile statements.
• Work with ACS staff to manage colonies of multiple mouse strains, including breeding, genotyping, and culling.
• Order mice and take care of experimental mice, as needed.
• Update mouse colony database and manage lab mouse inventories.

Requirements

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field.
• Previous experience in rodent behavior and/or stereotaxic surgeries.
• Experience with mouse models, mouse surgical procedures, microscopy, molecular techniques (immunohistochemistry), and basic statistical methods.

Pay

Expected salary: $55,000-$60,000

Benefits

• Health Insurance: UF participates in state- and university-sponsored benefits programs for individuals, families, and domestic partners, and offers voluntary insurance that includes vision, dental, long-term disability, and more.
• Retirement Options: Attractive options include Florida Retirement System Pension Plan, State University System Optional Retirement Program, Florida Retirement System Investment Plan, and Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan.
• Leave: UF Faculty and Staff enjoy a generous paid leave plan as well as access to a sick-leave pool, maternity/paternity leave, and leave payouts. Learn more.