Academic Research Associate Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

The Currier Thomas Neurotrauma Laboratory at the University of South Florida is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to lead and support translational neurotrauma research projects spanning preclinical models, clinical data integration, molecular neuroscience, and systems-level analysis.
This position includes substantial responsibility in clinical/translational data management and analysis, experimental design, manuscript and grant development, animal surgeries, molecular assays, and coordination across multidisciplinary projects.
The ideal candidate is intellectually curious, highly organized, adaptable, capable of managing multiple complex projects simultaneously, and motivated to contribute to a high-output research environment.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities

• Lead and assist with analysis of large clinical and experimental datasets

• Perform and assist with rodent surgical procedures and post-operative monitoring

• Conduct molecular, histological, and biochemical experiments

• Contribute to experimental design, troubleshooting, and optimization

• Assist in manuscript preparation, figure generation, and grant development

• Coordinate research activities across trainees and collaborators

• Maintain accurate records and support reproducible research practices

• Participate in mentorship and training of junior laboratory personnel

Successful candidates must:

• Be highly self-motivated and capable of independent problem solving

• Thrive in a fast-paced, high-accountability research environment

• Demonstrate exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail

• Be willing to continuously learn new techniques and technologies

• Communicate effectively within a collaborative team setting

• Maintain professionalism, adaptability, and scientific rigor under pressure

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree from an accredited institution with demonstrated record of academic research achievement, or professional qualifications in the field of specialization above those which would be equivalent to the highest degree. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Research Associate.

• Excellent organizational skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office and imaging software.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, engineering, psychology, or related field

• Experience with large dataset analysis and statistics
• • Experience with animal surgery and/or behavioral neuroscience
• • Experience with molecular biology, histology, microscopy, or neurophysiology
• • Track record of scientific productivity (publications, presentations, abstracts)

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.