Advanced Research Scientist

The University of South Florida, Morsani College of Internal Medicine, Institute for Translational Virology and Innovation is seeking an Advanced Research Scientist with strong expertise in microbiology, molecular and cellular biology and experience working with animal models. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting ongoing research projects by performing routine laboratory tasks, assisting with experiments and managing laboratory supplies and orders. Once hired, the Research Assistant or Lab Research Specialist will be required to obtain certifications in occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials, and animal research protocols, specifically for work involving mice. The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. The Advanced Research Scientist Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. Nature of Work: Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. Work also includes contribution to design, execution, and troubleshooting of experiments. Modifications to the methods is expected to be based on familiarity with the essential underlying principles and are made in a semi-autonomous manner. The individual may act as a laboratory expert in certain specialized techniques, such as physiologic, molecular, genomic, or microscopic methods. Analysis of results may rise to a greater level than Research Scientist. Work on projects in the field of virology and microbiology, in particular the interactions between viral or bacterial proteins and eukaryotic cells and their resulting effects on cellular functions. Generate data over a wide range of biochemical experiments and compile and analyze them using various relevant computer software applications. The experiments and data collection will be under the supervision of senior researchers, ensuring accuracy and adherence to protocols. Perform routine molecular and cellular biology techniques, including but not limited to protein assays, Western blotting, immunostaining, tissue culture, transfection, RNA/DNA/protein isolation, plasmid construction, transformation, microscopy, flow cytometry and image analysis. Assist in animal handling, genotyping, breeding, injections, tissues collection and processing, and monitoring experimental subjects. Perform general laboratory duties, such as autoclaving, preparing chemical solutions, media, reagents, and buffers. Manage laboratory supplies, including ordering reagents, consumables, and equipment as needed to ensure uninterrupted workflow. Maintain detailed and organized laboratory records, including experimental data and inventory logs to assist in the preparation of reports, presentations and manuscripts as needed Excellent communication skills are required Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and institutional guidelines, including proper waste disposal and handling of hazardous materials. Ability to work both independently, to perform and troubleshoot experiments, and as part of a team to participate in the design of research studies Perform other duties as assigned Bachelor’s degree in biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field At least two (2) years of experience in a laboratory setting, with hands-on expertise in molecular and cellular biology techniques, and animal models. Proficiency with basic laboratory equipment and software (i.e. Microsoft Office, GraphPad Prism, ImageJ, etc) Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate ( https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310 ) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S. SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements A public employer may include a post-secondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed: (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree; (b) Four years of direct experience fo