Usf Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applications are invited for multiple tenured and tenure-track faculty positions at all ranks in the new Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing at the University of South Florida. This new college presents a rare opportunity to join a forward-looking institution dedicated to high-impact research. USF seeks candidates whose research aligns with strategic, high-potential areas for federal funding, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum computing, computing systems, networking, human-centered computing, edge computing, computing architectures, and ethics and trust in technology. Faculty joining the College will have the unique advantage of shaping the direction of a college poised for tremendous growth in reputation and research impact.

The Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing at the University of South Florida is Florida's first and one of only a few nationwide to combine AI, cybersecurity, and computing within a single college. Opened in 2025 and powered by a University of South Florida record $40 million gift from Arnie and Lauren Bellini, the largest in USF history, it remains the country's only named college dedicated solely to these intersecting fields. The College comprises 67 faculty members, ranked in the top 16 percent (Academic Analytics, AAD 2023) nationally among computer science programs, with 13 NSF CAREER awardees and numerous IEEE and AAAS Fellows. Designed as a hub-and-spoke model, the college connects over 200 top USF faculty members specializing in AI, cybersecurity, and computing. USF's research spending in computer and information sciences has reached $24 million (FY24 NSF HERD). 

The College educates 3,000+ students across 15 majors in computer science, cybersecurity, AI, information technology, and computer engineering at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Many blended programs have been created in partnership with its affiliated colleges. The College houses the USF Institute for Artificial Intelligence + X, the Rapid7 Cyber Threat Intelligence Lab, and the Center for Innovation, Technology, and Aging. It maintains strong connections with the Florida Center for Cybersecurity (Cyber Florida). USF also holds NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation in Cyber Defense. 

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 Desired Qualifications: Doctoral degree from an accredited institution at the time of hire or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant Professor.

All candidates should have an established record of high-quality research publications in selective venues, a commitment to excellence in teaching, and a willingness to build collaborative research agendas.  Candidates must have completed a PhD in computer science or a related discipline by the start time of the position. Successful candidates are expected to start in the Fall of 2026.

An application package should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statements describing research and teaching experience and goals, and the names and contact information of at least three references. Applicants must electronically submit the application packet as one PDF file.