Job Description

Classification Title:

Laboratory Technician III

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Associate's degree in an appropriate area and four years of related experience; or a high school diploma or equivalent and six years of related experience. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Job Description:

The Bortolato Lab in the Department of Cellular and Systems Pharmacology at the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy focuses on understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly depression and Tourette syndrome. The lab’s research is largely based on behavioral and molecular neuroscience, as well as pharmacology, with the goal of developing novel therapeutic strategies. We are seeking a dedicated animal surgeon to support this ongoing research. The primary responsibilities will include mouse and rat stereotaxic surgeries, in addition to a range of lab manager-related tasks. This position is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about contributing to cutting-edge research in a dynamic laboratory setting. Experience in handling animals and laboratory techniques is highly desirable.

Animal (mouse and rat) stereotaxic surgeries:

• Independently perform stereotaxic surgeries on mice and rats, included, but not limited to, administration of viral construct, cannulation for ICV drug administration, catheterization).
• Independently provide post-surgery care in line with IACUC requirement.
• Monitor and maintain accurate records of surgery in line with IACUC requirement.

Animal (mouse and rat) colony maintenance:

• Independently manage the daily operations of the rodent animal colony, including tasks related to breeding, weaning, and genotyping.
• Monitor and maintain accurate records of breeding pairs, litters, and individual animal health to ensure efficient colony management.
• Perform routine animal husbandry tasks, such as cleaning cages, administering medications, and monitoring animal welfare.
• Coordinate with lab members to plan the use of animals for various experimental protocols, ensuring optimal timing and availability.
• Perform animal identification, ear punching, and tail clipping for genotyping.
• Maintain compliance with institutional and federal guidelines on animal care and welfare, ensuring high ethical standards in all procedures.

IACUC Animal protocols:

• Assist in the preparation and submission of animal protocols and modifications to ensure regulatory compliance.

Expected Salary:

$25-29/hr

Employment Benefits include:

Health Insurance: UF participates in state- and university-sponsored benefits programs for individuals, families and domestic partners, and offers voluntary insurance that includes vision, dental, long-term disability and more.

Retirement Options: Attractive options include Florida Retirement System Pension Plan, State University System Optional Retirement Program, Florida Retirement System Investment Plan, and Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan.

Leave: UF Faculty and Staff enjoy a generous paid leave plan as well as access to a sick-leave pool, maternity/paternity leave, and leave payouts.

To learn more visit: hr.ufl.edu/benefits

Required Qualifications

Associate's degree in an appropriate area and four years of related experience; or a high school diploma or equivalent and six years of related experience. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Preferred:

1. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant area, from a recognized university with or without subsequent relevant work experience OR an equivalent combination of experience and training.
2. Ability to solve problems through the standard application of theoretical principles and techniques at a degree level.
3. Demonstrated written and oral communication skills including capacity to communicate with individuals at all levels in the organization.
4. Experience and an ability to effectively analyses information and produce clear, succinct reports and documents.
5. Planning and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and set and meet deadlines.
6. Demonstrated level of computer literacy and proficiency in the production of high-level work using software such as Microsoft Office applications (in particular Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and specified University software programs, with the capability and willingness to learn new packages as appropriate.
7. A demonstrated awareness of the principles of confidentiality, privacy and information handling.
8. At least one year of documented experience in stereotaxic surgery.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

To be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references.

As a part of our review for research and research support positions, we look for a full CV which includes all professional appointments/engagements, all post-secondary education, and all publications from post-secondary education and all respective dates. Please be sure to not use acronyms in your CV. This CV should include names of entities associated with any projects.

This position is in-person and is not eligible for remote work.

This is a time-limited position.

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

Health Assessment Required: Yes