Medical Scientist I

Summary

Junior (entry-level) medical scientist.  Conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.  Utilize clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach findings.  Work under immediate supervision.  Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.  Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment.  Will not modify existing procedures or develop novel procedures.  Utilize knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field.  Typically report to a supervisor or manager.  Will not directly supervise.

This broad occupation includes the following two detailed occupations: SOC 19-1041.00 Epidemiologists and SOC 19-1042.00 Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists.

• Epidemiologists.  Investigate and describe the determinants and distribution of disease, disability, or health outcomes.  May develop the means for prevention and control.
• Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists.  Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health.  Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.  Includes physicians, dentists, public health specialists, pharmacologists, and medical pathologists who primarily conduct research.

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.

• Study animal and human health and physiological processes following established methods and procedures
• Participate in studies to investigate human or animal disease, preventive methods, and treatments for disease
• Participate in research in accordance with stipulated protocols and quality and safety standards to develop methodologies, instrumentation, and procedures for medical application, analyzing data, and presenting findings
• Assist with investigating diseases or parasites to determine cause and risk factors, progress, life cycle, or mode of transmission
• Assist with identifying and analyzing public health issues related to foodborne parasitic diseases and their impact on public policies or scientific studies or surveys
• Prepare and analyze samples to study and evaluate the effects of drugs, gases, pesticides, or microorganisms at various levels (including on cell structure and tissue); prepare and analyze organ, tissue, and cell samples to identify toxicity, bacteria, or microorganisms or to study cell structure
• Prepare and analyze medical samples and data to investigate causes and treatment of toxicity, pathogens, or chronic diseases
• Use equipment such as atomic absorption spectrometers, electron microscopes, flow cytometers, and chromatography systems
• Follow strict procedures when handling toxic materials to avoid contamination and maintain safety
• Assist with monitoring incidents of infectious diseases to local and state health agencies
• Assist with teaching principles of medicine and medical and laboratory procedures to physicians, residents, students, and technicians
• Educate healthcare workers, patients, and the public about infectious and communicable diseases, including disease transmission and prevention

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in health sciences, medical engineering, biology or a closely related life science field

Licensure and Certification

N/A

Supervision

This position does not typically include supervisory responsibility.

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