Design Lab Assistant Jobs in Seminole, FL (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will have a strong background in neuroscience and will work with newly developed a-synuclein knock-in mouse models. This research program addresses fundamental mechanisms relevant to Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. The position offer opportunities for scientific leadership, collaboration, mentoring, and active participation in grant and manuscript preparation within a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment.

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.  

Minimum Qualifications:

• A recent Ph.D. in neuroscience, biochemistry, or a related biological field. Must have graduated within six months to one year or be nearing graduation.
• Demonstrated expertise in electrophysiology or fiber photometry.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Extensive experience with mouse studies, including behavioral analysis. 
• Experience in primary neuron culture, molecular biology, imaging, and biochemistry is desirable.
• Prior experience working with Parkinson's disease mouse models is highly desirable.
• Self-motivated and driven, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 

Special Skills/Trainings:

• Prior experience with survival surgery, fiber photometry combined with optogenetic approaches in freely moving mice or electrophysiology (both field and whole cell patch-clamp recordings).

Additional Application Materials Required: 

• CV and cover letter with the contact information of 2-3 professional references.

• Design, optimize, perform in vitro and in vivo experiments.
• Analyze and interpret datasets.
• Present results in lab meetings and conferences.
• Assist the Principal Investigator with preparation of grant applications, progress reports, manuscripts, and lab protocols.
• Maintain the electrophysiology rig or fiber photometry set up, and other lab equipment.
• Contribute to the development of new research directions and experimental strategies.
• Train and mentor research staff, and other junior laboratory personnel.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines.