| Job Description: |
The Department of Neuroscience and the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Florida is seeking applications for a Biological Scientist II in the laboratory of Dr. Ziyuan Guo. The Guo Laboratory focuses on human stem cell biology, 3D brain and barrier organoid/assembloid modeling, microfluidic platforms, and molecular/epitranscriptomic mechanisms of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. The incumbent will work closely with the PI and laboratory personnel to conduct research, assist with experimental design and multi-omic data analytics, oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, and mentor student research assistants.
Duties include:
Conducting Laboratory Experiments: Perform mammalian cell culture, maintenance, and directed differentiations of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into neural and vascular lineages. Generate and maintain 3D brain organoids, blood-brain barrier (BBB) / blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) assembloids, and organ-on-a-chip platforms. Execute molecular protocols including qPCR, DNA/RNA extractions, molecular cloning, CRISPR/Cas9 manipulations, Western blotting, tissue sectioning (cryostat/vibratome), immunofluorescence staining, and confocal microscopy.
Experimental Design & Data Analytics: Collaborate with the PI to design, optimize, and execute experimental protocols. Perform quantitative data analysis, image quantification, and statistical analysis. Organize, curate, and maintain large data repositories (including single-cell transcriptomic, genomic, and imaging datasets) required for manuscript preparation.
Laboratory Management & Maintenance: Manage day-to-day laboratory ordering of supplies and reagents, record keeping, and inventory tracking via UF purchasing portals. Maintain stem cell culture suites, biosafety cabinets, incubators, and common reagent stocks. Maintain active safety logs, equipment certifications, and compliance documentation under EH&S, IBC, and IRB/SCRO guidelines.
Scientific Reporting & Trainee Mentoring: Assist with literature searches, figure preparation, and scientific progress summaries for grant applications and manuscripts. Assist with onboarding new lab personnel and teaching fundamental stem cell and molecular biology skills to undergraduate research assistants.
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| Preferred: |
Direct hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (hiPSC/hESC culture experience is highly preferred).
Experience with 3D tissue culture, organoids, microfluidic/organ-on-a-chip platforms, or tissue sectioning and immunofluorescence staining.
Technical proficiency in molecular biology workflows (qPCR, molecular cloning, Western blot, CRISPR editing).
Familiarity with computational data analysis tools in R, Python, or MATLAB.
Demonstrated desire to learn new neuroscience and stem cell engineering techniques.
Excellent organizational, record-keeping, and interpersonal communication skills. |