Postdoctoral Associate - Digital Twins Food-Health, and Biosystems Global South

Institution: University of Florida (UF), Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)

Department: Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE)

Location: Gainesville, Florida (Main Campus)

Job No.: 537480

Type: Full‑Time |
Category: Data Science, Agricultural Sciences, Computer Science, Life Sciences, Systems Engineering

Final date to receive applications: November 12, 2025

The University of Florida invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position in Digital Twins for Food-Health and Biosystems in the Global South. The role focuses on developing a digital twin framework to simulate and optimize food‑health biosystems in developing and emerging economies, as part of UF’s Brain Food Initiative. The successful candidate will work with a cross‑disciplinary team spanning data science, public health, agriculture, and sustainability.

• Design and develop digital twin frameworks for food‑health biosystems in Global South regions.
• Integrate diverse data sources, including IoT sensors, AI/ML pipelines, and remote sensing data, into modeling platforms.
• Collaborate with international researchers and stakeholders to ensure real‑world relevance and contextual accuracy.
• Lead and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications, reports, and conference presentations.
• Support grant proposal development and funding applications.
• Conduct advanced simulations using the Hi Per Gator  high‑performance computing system.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students engaged in related projects.
• Actively contribute to the collaborative and interdisciplinary environment at UF.

• Ph.D. (or foreign equivalent) in Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, AI/ML Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline (degree must be completed by the start date).
• Proven expertise in modeling, simulation, digital twins, AI/ML, or cyber‑physical systems.
• Strong publication record in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated interest in applying computational tools to food systems and developing economies.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the Land‑Grant system and University of Florida.

• Experience with digital twin applications in food, agriculture, or biosystems.
• Familiarity with optimization, agent‑based modeling, or systems dynamics.
• Prior involvement in international or interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Strong programming and data integration skills in Python, R, MATLAB, or similar platforms.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, cross‑cultural, team‑oriented environments.

• Salary:
  Commensurate with education and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid leave; tuition assistance; professional development opportunities; access to world‑class research infrastructure and the Hi Per Gator  computing system.

The University of Florida is a leading Land‑, Sea‑, and Space‑Grant institution, home to over 56,000 students and a hub for interdisciplinary research. UF/IFAS is one of the largest agricultural and natural resources research and education organizations in the United States, employing more than 4,500 staff and faculty. The Global Food Systems Institute (GFSI) serves as a worldwide hub for food security, sustainability, and resilience research, driving impactful partnerships between academia, governments, and international development organizations.

Submit your application online at Careers at UF.

• Cover letter describing research interests and qualifications.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Contact information for three professional references.

• Official transcripts or degree verification (required upon hire).

• Health Assessment:
  Not required.
• Eligibility:
  Hiring contingent upon legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Accessibility:
  Applicants needing disability accommodations may contact 352‑392‑2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800‑955‑8771 (TDD).
• Equal Opportunity:
  The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, including women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.