Researcher V - Now Hiring

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.