Engineering Postdoc Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

The Simmons Group at the University of South Florida is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on molecular dynamics simulations probing the nonlinear mechanics of elastomeric nanocomposites. The goal of this effort is to understand and ultimately enhance the microscopic mechanisms of nanocomposite toughness. The successful candidate will plan, execute, and analyze large-scale nanocomposite simulations, develop new computational tools for analysis of nonlinear mechanical response and energy dissipation in simulated nanocomposites, and work with and mentor more junior researchers performing related research in the Simmons group.

The Simmons group has a record of cutting-edge computational research in the dynamics and mechanics of nanocomposites and other interfacially rich materials. Recent group research in these areas has been published in journals including Nature, Nature Physics, The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and Macromolecules. For more on the Simmons group and recent publications, see the Simmons laboratory webpage at https://sites.google.com/view/simmonsresearchgroup/home. This postdoctoral position is supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy focused on understanding nanocomposite mechanical strength.

The position is available as early as March 2026, with a start date no later than June 2026. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field by their start date. Experience in molecular modeling or simulation is strongly preferred. Evidence of success in team research and in mentorship will be viewed favorably.

The Simmons group is located in the Department of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering at the University of South Florida. USF is located in Tampa, a thriving metropolitan area of more than 3 million people situated in an idyllic location on Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Interested candidates should contact Dr. David Simmons at dssimmons@usf.edu and submit a detailed CV and contact information for three professional references for USF Job ID [] via the USF hiring system by following the following link: []

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.  

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.

Minimum and preferred qualifications: Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field by their start date. Experience in molecular modeling or simulation is strongly preferred. Evidence of success in team research and in mentorship will be viewed favorably.