Academic Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Description
We are an enterprise for change in the way we understand health and how it transforms our quality of life. USF Health's mission is to envision and implement the future of health. Our commitment is to improve the full spectrum of health, from the environment to the community, to the individual. Together through talent and innovation, USF Health is integrating research, education and health care to reach our shared value - making life better.
The Thomas Taylor-Clark laboratory in the department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology at the Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, seeks a motivated Research Associate to conduct research supported by multiple NIH-funded awards. The Taylor-Clark lab investigates visceral interoception and its contribution to deseases of the airways, cardiovascular system and the gut.
Qualifications
Minimum:
Candidate should have a PhD in biological or medical sciences and >5years' experience as a post-doctoral researcher in biological sciences or a related field 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.
Preferred:
Experience with neuroanatomical analysis of sensory pathways innervating the airways, cardiovascular system and the gut
Experience with dissection and tissue processing of visceral organs (including the lungs and gut) and the central nervous system
Experience with vivo methods to label or manipulate organ-specific nerve pathways such as viral vectors or injectable dyes
Experience with Stereotaxic surgeries.
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.