Biological Scientist I

Summary

Junior (entry-level) biological scientist.  Researches or studies basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.  Works under immediate supervision.  Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.  Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment.  Does not modify existing procedures or develop novel procedures.  Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field.  Typically reports to a Principal Investigator, supervisor, or manager.  Has no supervisory responsibility.

This classification includes specialist including but not limited to, Biochemist, Biophysicists, Microbiologists, Zoologists, Wildlife Biologists, Bioinformatics Scientists, Molecular and Cellular Biologists, and Geneticists.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Follow established methods to study the mechanisms of biological processes; follow established guidelines for procedures; performs laboratory experiments in accordance with established methods and procedures
• Participate in biological research programs for government, research firms, medical industries, or manufacturing firms
• Provide scientific services for clients in a clinic, laboratory, or research area
• Participate in biological research in accordance with stipulated protocols and quality and safety standards
• Perform scientific experiments for analysis and standardization
• Conduct experimental studies with live specimens in controlled or natural surroundings
• Collect and/or dissect specimens; examine specimens under microscope
• Identify, classify, and study structure, behavior, ecology, physiology, nutrition, culture, and distribution of plant, animal, microbial species
• Inventory and monitor wildlife populations and habitat; participate in preventive programs to control the outbreak of wildlife diseases and manage invasive plants and animals
• Participate in the development of breeding programs or survival plans
• Cultivate, breed, and grow specimens for study and observation or for use in experiments
• Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms for study in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition
• Prepare collections of preserved specimens or microscopic slides for species identification and study of development or disease
• Participate in curatorial programs for species collections that include acquisition, distribution, maintenance, or regeneration
• Secure representative plant, animal, aquatic, or soil samples
• Participate in laboratory safety programs
• Provide routine maintenance on laboratory equipment; verify that equipment and instrumentation are maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results
• Provide input for evaluating new supplies, technologies,  and equipment to ensure operability in specific laboratory settings for enhancing or complementing research
• Maintain accurate laboratory records that record research methods, procedures, and results; prepare and maintain research findings, summaries, logs, and notes
• Follows sampling plans for collection of samples
• Compile data; use statistical models for the analysis of data
• Maintain computer databases; use publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary databases
• Analyze datasets for clinical or research purposes; evaluate data by performing appropriate mathematical or statistical calculations and analyses

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related life science field.

Licensure and Certification

N/A

Supervision

This position does not typically include supervisory responsibility.

Competencies

• Accuracy And Attention To Detail
• Active Learning
• Flexibility And Adaptability
• Effective Communications
• Research Documentation
• Problem Solving
• Initiative
• Office Support Tools
• Decision Making And Critical Thinking
• Teamwork
• Web-Based Research

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.