Researcher

Researcher III

Cherokee United Services is seeking a Researcher III to support advanced genetic and molecular biology research in Gainesville, Florida. This full-time, on-site role supports research that informs the conservation and management of wildlife, invasive species, wetlands, and aquatic resources. The Researcher III will conduct molecular laboratory procedures, maintain laboratory operations and records, support data management, and assist with field activities as needed. 

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Researcher III: $54,000 

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Researcher III Responsibilities Include: 

• Conduct advanced molecular biology research in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Extract, purify, quantify, and assess the quality of DNA and RNA from biological and environmental samples.
• Perform PCR, quantitative PCR (qPCR), gel electrophoresis, and related molecular laboratory procedures.
• Maintain and support research involving cell cultures and cell lines.
• Design, optimize, and troubleshoot primers, assays, and molecular biology protocols.
• Collect, prepare, evaluate, verify, and process biological and environmental samples.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, chemical solutions, and mixtures in accordance with SOPs and laboratory safety requirements.
• Perform laboratory QA/QC activities and promptly identify, document, troubleshoot, and communicate technical or data-management issues.
• Train or assist laboratory personnel in approved laboratory procedures and SOPs.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot core laboratory equipment, including pipettors, thermocyclers, spectrophotometers, centrifuges, dewars, and gas cylinders.
• Maintain inventories of laboratory chemicals, reagents, supplies, and equipment; identify and communicate procurement needs.
• Coordinate shipment and receipt of samples, supplies, chemicals, and laboratory equipment.
• Support laboratory safety assessments, laboratory-readiness checks, PPE availability, and personnel training compliance.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and organized laboratory notebooks, field notes, data sheets, training logs, and digital and hard-copy research records.
• Compile, tabulate, analyze, summarize, and prepare experimental data for reports, presentations, graphics, and other research products.