Biological Scientist I

JOB NO:

538477

WORK TYPE:

Staff Full-Time

LOCATION:

Polk

CATEGORIES:

Biology/Life Science, Veteran's Preference Eligible

DEPARTMENT:

AG-CREC-HORTICULTURE

CLASSIFICATION TITLE:

Biological Scientist I

CLASSIFICATION MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

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

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Conduct experiments to investigate the effects of Huanglongbing infection on citrus fruit quality, including treatment applications in greenhouse and groves. Assess the efficacy of trunk injection of antibiotics and plant growth regulators on improving fruit quality and growth. Driving to site locations will be required.

Utilize existing experimental protocols to evaluate the impact of horticultural management practices on tree and fruit growth and development.

Support colleagues in refining experiments, ensuring that research objectives are met and that experiments are conducted efficiently and effectively.

Collect data on various trees, fruit, and soil parameters, including but not limited to fruit quality and yield, tree growth and development, soil moisture and nutrient levels, pest and disease incidence. Ensure accurate and thorough documentation of research protocols, data collection methods, and results.

Use specialized equipment, such as spectrophotometers, gas exchange systems, and plant growth chambers, to collect data on plant physiological parameters. Assist with data entry and management, ensuring that data is accurately recorded and stored in a secure and accessible manner.

Analyze data using statistical software such as R, SAS, SigmaPlot, and other applications. Produce preliminary tabular and graphical displays of data collected, including means, standard deviations, and statistical comparisons. Conduct basic statistical modeling and data visualization to identify trends and patterns in the data.

Writes bi-weekly reports on experiments executed. Supervises domestic student interns who are helping with project. Help order lab supplies, as needed. Other duties as assigned.

EXPECTED SALARY:

Commensurate with education and experience.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED:

Master of Science in Horticulture, Soil Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Agriculture, or related discipline.

Experience with citrus research.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS:

In order to be considered, you must upload your resume.

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

This is a time-limited position.

This is a 40 hour per week position.

This position is eligible for veteran's preference. If you are claiming veteran's preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page for more specific information.

HEALTH ASSESSMENT REQUIRED:

No

ADVERTISED:

23 Jan 2026

Eastern Standard Time

APPLICATIONS CLOSE:

30 Jan 2026

Eastern Standard Time