Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Biological Scientist III will assist researchers in the laboratory of Dr. Daniel Wesson and will also involve active drug screening campaigns to identify novel therapeutic targets. herein described will engage in NIH-supported research to advance our understanding of the brain regulation of sensation, cognition, and behavior. The Biological Scientist III will investigate the neural control of learning, sensory-driven motivated behaviors, and drug addiction. They will conduct skilled behavioral and electrophysiological procedures in behaving rodents, perform operations on rodents with reliability and precision. Ensures the highest of standards of pre- and post-operational animal care. Additional responsibilities will include ensuring the uninterrupted flow of laboratory operations by overseeing laboratory compliance with institutional regulatory offices (EHS, IBC, IACUC), training and supervision of lab personnel in ensuring such compliance, and by maintaining laboratory materials.

Conduct Research

Perform research investigating neuronal dynamics and their contributions to behavior. This includes precisely executing behavioral assays, electrophysiological experiments, and survival surgical procedures including both intracranial and peripheral surgeries, performing data collection from behaving animals, meticulous data organization, extraction, and analysis.

Research Project Coordination

Responsible for the complete understanding and compliance with all required laboratory regulations such as ACS, EH&S, IACUC, UF, State and Federal guidelines, maintains accurate records and legal documentation required by institutional policies such as biological, chemical, and radiation safety policies. Manage ordering process to ensure efficient and cost-effective use of grant funding; maintain lab supply inventory to ensure supplies are available for scheduled research projects; researches and evaluates new products, compares and negotiates vendor prices.

Laboratory Supervision and Training

Supervises and directs lab staff to aid in experiments; Trains and supervises lab staff in behavioral and surgical methods; provides consultation, guidance, and troubleshooting for others in the laboratory related to various aspects of lab techniques and procedures; provides proper instruction on lab equipment use and maintenance; provides oversight to ensure accurate and thorough record keeping.

Animal Care Oversight

Contribute to performance and oversight of pre- and post-operative animal care. Coordinates animal care between the lab and institutional animal care staff.



EXPECTED SALARY:
$52,500-68,000 commensurate with education and experience.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field and seven years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree in biology or a closely related field and five years of relevant experience; Doctoral degree in biology or a closely related field and two years of relevant experience.

PREFERRED
Prior Laboratory experience: knowledge of basic neuroscience
Good interpersonal skills and organizational skills.
Capacity to follow written procedures.
Ability to complete reports using English.
Ability to work with a large number of distractions.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS:
In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

The University of Florida is committed to non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations, genetic information and veteran status in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training.

This is a time limited position.

This requisition will be used to fill multiple positions.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.