Researcher V

Researcher V

Cherokee Federal seeks a Researcher V to support our federal client in Gainesville, FL. You will lead molecular and genetic analyses on invasive and imperiled species, support eDNA/metabarcoding projects, conduct field sampling, and publish results that inform natural resource management. Full‑time; travel and fieldwork required.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Researcher V: $72,000.00 per year. 

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 V Responsibilities Include:

• Lead lab research on environmental DNA (eDNA), metabarcoding, population genetics, disease research, and genetic biocontrol (cell culture).
• Perform water filtration; extract, purify, and quantify DNA/RNA; conduct PCR/qPCR/ddPCR; gel electrophoresis; primer design; troubleshoot protocols; phenol‑chloroform isolations.
• Operate and maintain lab equipment: pipettors, thermocyclers, spectrophotometers, DNA analyzers, centrifuges, power supplies; manage inventory; prepare solutions and reagents.
• Prepare, collect, verify samples; maintain detailed records; tabulate, statistically analyze, and summarize data; ensure QA for lab and microscope analyses.
• Train and assist scientists, students, and volunteers; coordinate lab activities; support outreach materials and present at scientific meetings; contribute to proposals and manuscripts.
• Plan and conduct multi‑day fieldwork; acquire biological samples and environmental data; prepare equipment, datasheets, and instruments; operate vehicles; work in adverse conditions.
• Perform literature reviews; organize data, digital documents, databases, and metadata; communicate with collaborators; facilitate meetings and workshops; support federal approval processes.
• Meet performance milestones; submit deliverables on schedule; ensure safety compliance; prepare data files and graphics for reports/presentations; catalog and archive all data.
• Remedy monitoring/data issues promptly; notify government representatives when additional technical assistance is needed.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Researcher V Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

• Master’s degree required. PhD preferred.

• Completion of at least 24 semester hours in scientific or technical courses related to the position.

• Hands on experience with next generation sequencing; eDNA metabarcoding preferred; population genetics and qPCR experience preferred.

• Proficiency in PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, DNA/RNA extraction and quantification, primer design, gel electrophoresis, phenol chloroform isolations, and lab equipment operation/maintenance.

• Strong data management and statistical analysis skills; ability to maintain accurate records and QA standards.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision; strong communication and training skills; manuscript and presentation experience preferred.

• Willingness and physical ability to perform extended fieldwork in harsh conditions; valid driver’s license required.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Company Information:

Cherokee United Services (CUS) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CUS, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

• Keywords:
  • Environmental DNA (eDNA)
  • Metabarcoding and qPCR/ddPCR
  • Population Genetics
  • Field Sampling and QA/QC
  • Wetland and Aquatic Research
• Similar Job Descriptions:
  • Molecular Ecology Research Scientist
  • Conservation Genetics Specialist
  • Aquatic Biology Researcher
  • Invasive Species Molecular Analyst
  • Wildlife Genomics Researcher

Legal Disclaimer: Cherokee Federal is an equal opportunity employer. Please visit cherokee-federal.com/careers for information regarding our Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer Statement, and Accommodation request.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.