Postdoctoral Scholar Research - Medical Engineering

University of South Florida; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

University of South Florida is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Medical Engineering to support interdisciplinary research in microbiology, microbial detection, nanobiotechnology, therapeutics, and HABs. The role emphasizes independent and collaborative work, development of innovative technologies, and active contribution to grants and publications.

The appointment is anticipated for two years with renewal based on performance and funding.

Qualifications

• PhD from an accredited institution with appropriate training in a specialization.
• Experience with microbiology/molecular biology and microbial detection preferred.
• Ability to conduct independent and collaborative research and communicate results.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on microbiology, microbial detection, nanobiotechnology, therapeutics, HABs and related applications.
• Develop innovative technologies and methodologies and contribute to grant and publication activities.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance translational research.
• Prepare reports and contribute to grant proposals and scholarly publications.

Skills

Microbiology

Molecular biology

Microscopy

Nanobiotechnology

High-throughput sequencing

Analytical approaches

Scientific communication

Grant writing

Education

PhD in Microbiology/Bioengineering or related field

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Medical Engineering at the University of South Florida (USF) will support interdisciplinary research initiatives focused on microbiology, microbial detection, nanobiotechnology, therapeutics, harmful algal blooms (HABs), and related biomedical and environmental applications. The incumbent will conduct independent and collaborative research, develop innovative technologies and methodologies, contribute to grant and publication activities, and work with multidisciplinary teams to advance scientific discovery and translational research. This position is suited for a highly motivated, productive, and solution-oriented scientist committed to excellence in research and innovation.

Position Summary

The Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Medical Engineering at the University of South Florida (USF) will support interdisciplinary research initiatives focused on microbiology, microbial detection, nanobiotechnology, therapeutics, harmful algal blooms (HABs), and related biomedical and environmental applications. The incumbent will conduct independent and collaborative research, develop innovative technologies and methodologies, contribute to grant and publication activities, and work with multidisciplinary teams to advance scientific discovery and translational research. This position is suited for a highly motivated, productive, and solution-oriented scientist committed to excellence in research and innovation.

The position is anticipated to be a two-year renewable appointment, with renewal based on performance and availability of grant funding.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Doctoral degree from an accredited institution and appropriate experience and training within a selected area of specialization. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Postdoctoral Fellow.

Preferred Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in Microbiology, Bioengineering, or a related field, with strong expertise in microbiology/molecular biology and microbial detection. Experience with advanced detection technologies, high-throughput sequencing, microbiome research, antimicrobial resistance, nanobiotechnology, or related analytical approaches is highly desirable.

The successful candidate should demonstrate scientific initiative, strong experimental problem-solving skills, independence, productivity, and excellent communication and collaboration skills.

This job is subject to Foreign Influence Screening: During the 2021 Florida legislative session, House Bill 7017(“HB 7017”) was passed and later signed into law by Governor DeSantis. The new law modifies a variety of Florida Statutes to address concerns regarding improper foreign influence. With regard to employment at major research institutions like the University of South Florida, the new law requires thorough review of certain applicants for positions involving research.

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg and USF Health. In 2025, U.S. News & World Report recognized USF with its highest overall ranking in university history, as a top 50 public university for the seventh consecutive year and as one of the top 15 best values among all public universities in the nation. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in the highest tier, placing it as one of the top 16 medical schools in the nation and inside the top 10 among public universities. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $750 million in research funding in 2025 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of nearly $10 billion for the state of Florida. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .

About Us

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

• Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.