Agricultural/Food Scientist II

Classification Title:

Agricultural/Food Scientist II

Classification Minimum Requirements

Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Job Description:

Provide support to faculty members in research projects involving ruminant species, primarily beef cattle, but potentially including dairy cattle, buffaloes, and small ruminants. Typical duties include:

• Plan and participate in research projects.
• Performance of various biochemical and molecular biological analyses using a variety of equipment dependent on the research objectives and experimental design established in conjunction with the faculty member, i.e, ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
• Standardization of methods and develop new procedures applicable to the experimental and research protocols of laboratory users.
• Assist in grant proposal preparation, literature searches, retrieval of material, data collection, processing, basic statistical evaluation, and assistance with preparation of manuscripts.
• Assist in working with computer applications, i.e., basic word processing, graphics, slide preparation, statistical programs and data management programs, including gene expression, omics and “big-data”.
• Collaborate in data and sample collection and other field activities, including but not limited to: rectal palpation and ultrasonography, collection of biological material (i.e.: blood, biopcies, cells, etc.), feeding animals, among others.
• Collaborate with faculty and fellow researchers to optimize research goals.
• Coordinates special studies or projects as directed.

Manage a Multi-Principle Investigator Laboratory

• Maintenance of laboratory equipment and laboratory physical area, including ordering supplies, equipment and inventory record keeping.
• Coordinate with research staff on issues which impact laboratory services/research.
• Maintain liaison with investigators, research personnel and staff to solve specific operating problems and improve technical activities.
• Acts as an advisor to meet schedules and/or resolve technical problems.
•  Administer and coordinate the technical activities, educational programs, and infrastructure related to the operation of laboratory.
• Perform duties as required or deemed appropriate to the accomplishment of the responsibilities and functions of the laboratory area.
• Recommends, drafts and implements operating policies and procedures.
• Assist in the interpretation and implementation of laboratory policies and procedures.
• Insure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed, maintained and applied.
• Coordinate and maintain EHS standards of oversight and safety for all laboratory area, specialized scientific or hazardous materials stores.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
• Maintain inventory and maintenance of sensitive scientific materials/instruments.
• Research and evaluate new products and equipment, compare and negotiate vendor prices.
• Prepare and monitor operating budget. Recommend purchases.
• Use purchasing card and purchase orders as per policies and regulations.
• Directs the maintenance program for laboratory equipment.
• Coordinates scientific services with faculty using the lab. Interact with laboratory personnel, faculty, staff and students in a spirit of cooperation.

  Expected Salary:

$46,000 commensurate with education and experience

Required Qualifications:

Doctoral degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field; or master’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and one year of experience in the field or in a related area; or bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, biology, or a closely related field and three years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Preferred

• Knowledge of principles of chemistry, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology and cell culture.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and properly document procedures
• Ability to perform ELISA, DNA extraction, PCR (end-point and real-time), Wester blotting, Immunomicroscopy, Immunehistochemistry, and Immunofluorecence and sperm count, etc.
• Manual dexterity and expertise in the setup operation and maintenance of equipment.
• Skill in use of standard and specialized labor