Biological Scientist II - UF/IFAS ABE

Classification Title:	Biological Scientist II
Classification Minimum Requirements:	Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience or Master's degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience.
Job Description:	The Precision Water Management Laboratory in the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department at the University of Florida addresses the application and development of precision agricultural water and nutrient management technologies and strategies to (i) enhance/improve water use efficiency, (ii) reduce agricultural water use, and (iii) reduce the impacts of agricultural management practices on downstream resources, users, and water quality. This is intermediate-level scientific work focused on managing the Florida Stakeholder Engagement Program (STEP) for corn and cotton. The incumbent coordinates STEP trial logistics, grower/stakeholder communication, assists with field and laboratory data collection for corn and cotton research, and modifies and carries out established research protocols in support of departmental research objectives. The position works with a degree of independence on routine and moderately complex assignments but seeks guidance from a supervisor or principal investigator on novel or complex issues. In addition to program management and data collection, the incumbent promotes scientific literacy among growers and industry stakeholders, contributes to scientific papers and extension publications, and mentors graduate and undergraduate students involved in the program. Familiarity with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the biological/agronomic sciences is essential.

Program Coordination and Management: In collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI), the Biological Scientist II will coordinate and manage the Florida Stakeholder Engagement Program (STEP) for corn and cotton throughout the state of Florida. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and overseeing all aspects of trial implementation across multiple locations, ensuring that research activities are conducted efficiently and according to project timelines. The incumbent will serve as a primary liaison between growers, industry partners, commodity groups, UF/IFAS Extension faculty, and other stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and maintaining regular communication regarding project objectives, timelines, and outcomes. The individual will coordinate field operations, schedule research activities, manage project deliverables, and monitor progress toward program goals. Additional responsibilities include maintaining project records, preparing progress reports, organizing stakeholder meetings and field events, and assisting the PI with program planning, evaluation, and strategic development to enhance stakeholder participation and the overall impact of the STEP program.

Field and Laboratory Research Activities: The incumbent will assist with and coordinate day-to-day field, laboratory, and decision-support modeling activities associated with the Florida Stakeholder Engagement Program (STEP) for corn and cotton. Responsibilities include implementing research protocols, establishing and maintaining field experiments, collecting agronomic and environmental data, performing crop growth assessments, and monitoring disease, insect, and pest pressures. The individual will work with advance sensor technologies, and monitoring systems; ensure accurate collection, management, and quality control of field and laboratory data; and maintain detailed records of research activities. In addition to field and laboratory research, the incumbent will support crop and hydrological modeling efforts associated with the STEP Corn and STEP Cotton contests by integrating weather, soil, management, and crop performance data to evaluate factors influencing yield and resource-use efficiency. The position will assist in developing, calibrating, and applying crop production and decision-support models to assess management scenarios, identify yield-limiting factors, and provide insights that support grower decision-making. Responsibilities also include organizing, analyzing, and interpreting research and contest data using statistical and analytical software, preparing reports and data summaries, and communicating findings to growers, industry stakeholders, Extension personnel, and scientific audiences. The incumbent is expected to identify and troubleshoot issues that arise during field, laboratory, and modeling activities while ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and scientific rigor of all research outputs and program deliverables.
These essential functions will require driving to sites around the state. 

Outreach and Scholarly Publications: The Biological Scientist II will play an active role in disseminating research findings and promoting scientific literacy among growers, agricultural professionals, and other stakeholders. The incumbent will assist in planning and conducting field days, demonstration events, educational workshops, and stakeholder meetings that communicate research outcomes and best management practices. Responsibilities include developing extension materials such as fact sheets, newsletters, technical reports, and educational content that translate scientific information into practical recommendations for agricultural producers. The position also involves contributing to the preparation of peer-reviewed journal articles, extension publications, conference presentations, and technical reports that document research findings and program impacts. The incumbent will engage with stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of research-based recommendations and help communicate the value and outcomes of the STEP program.

Training, Supervision, and Mentorship: The incumbent will assist with the training, supervision, and mentorship of graduate students, undergraduate students, technicians, and other personnel involved in STEP-related research activities. Responsibilities include onboarding new laboratory members, providing instruction on research protocols and data collection procedures, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations and standard operating procedures. The individual will mentor students in field and laboratory techniques, experimental design, data management, statistical analysis, and scientific communication. The position may also involve coordinating daily activities of student employees and research assistants, providing technical guidance, monitoring performance, and fostering a collaborative and productive research environment that supports professional growth and scientific excellence

This is a time-limited, grant-funded position.

This is an onsite position located on UF's main campus in Gainesville, FL. 

Some travel will be required for events and field activities. A valid Driver's License is necessary.

Working outdoors will be necessary to complete essential functions. 

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience. 

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and three years of experience or Master's degree in biology or a related field with one year of relevant experience.

Valid driver's license.

Preferred: Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, and Contact Information for three (3) References: Names, email addresses, and phone numbers of professional references.

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

This is a time-limited, grant funded position.

This position is only open to current UF Employees.

Health Assessment Required: No

 

Advertised: 28 Oct 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 04 Nov 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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