Postdoctoral Scholar Research

Job Identification:

43239

Job Category:

Research Apply Before:

04/28/2026, 10:41

AM Degree Level:

Doctorate Degree Locations:

12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612,

US Hiring Salary:

60,000-80,000

Essential Personnel:

No Job Description The project focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying early blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS). Using a combination of multicellular culture configurations (endothelial cells, astrocytes, pericytes, encephalitogenic T cells, myeloid cells), molecular biology techniques, transgenic BBB-specific knockout/in, and in vivo pathophysiological analyses, the successful candidate will investigate mechanisms of BBB dysfunction in models of MS. The position will be based on 100% research effort. Responsibilities Perform molecular biology techniques, including subcloning, transformations, mutagenesis, plasmid isolations, and mammalian cell transfections. Initiate and maintain (multicellular) cell culture, including transwell and 3D platforms. Conduct cell culture experiments, including genetic and pharmacological manipulations. Crossbreed and genotype transgenic mice, including general husbandry. Perform animal surgeries and procedures, including injections, blood draws, perfusions, and tissue harvests. Conduct animal physiology experiments, including permeability and transendothelial migration studies. Immunostain and collect immunofluorescence micrographs, including confocal. Run flow cytometry experiments. Perform data analyses and figure preparations. Write abstracts and manuscripts. This position is not eligible for

Visa Sponsorship 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:

Strong technical skills and the ability to work independently in core laboratory techniques are essential. These include advanced cell culture, confocal microscopy, immunodetection techniques, qPCR, and molecular biology. Expertise in designing and conducting complex animal studies is also crucial, along with skills in tissue harvesting and preparation, while adhering to all relevant ethical and safety protocols. In addition to technical skills, the ideal candidate will have a proven track record in designing effective research protocols, analyzing and interpreting complex datasets, and troubleshooting experiments. Excellent communication and organizational skills are necessary for collaborating with a multidisciplinary research team, managing projects, and effectively communicating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations. The ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and apply creative and flexible thinking to scientific challenges is highly valued. About Us 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. About USF 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 . 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.