Sr Research Scientist

Overview

The Senior Research Scientist is responsible for leading and executing advanced translational lung research, including development and application of precision-cut lung slice models, flow cytometry, and single-cell and spatial omics approaches. The role integrates multi-modal data to investigate mechanisms of lung disease, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, while ensuring high-quality experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation. The position provides scientific leadership through supervision of laboratory personnel, oversight of laboratory operations and resources, and support of grant development and scientific dissemination.

The candidate is expected to work with a high level of independence, contributing to efficient laboratory functioning, financial stewardship, and advancement of the research program through high-impact publications and competitive NIH grant submissions.

• Advanced Experimental Platforms & Technology Development:
  Lead the expansion and optimization of precision-cut lung slice (PCLS) models to support translational and mechanistic studies.
• Design and implement advanced flow cytometry and cell-sorting workflows, including panel development, assay validation, and integration with downstream molecular analyses.
• Perform spatial and single-cell omics experiments including experimental design, sample preparation from lung tissue, bone marrow and blood of mice.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics and biostatistics teams to ensure robust analysis and interpretation of datasets.
• Research Personnel Supervision and Laboratory Operations Support:
  Provide direct supervision to research personnel, including technicians, Advanced Research Scientists, postdoctoral trainees, and volunteer students, fostering a collaborative environment and overseeing project workload prioritization.
• Serve as a central resource for experimental techniques utilized within the laboratory, ensuring technical excellence and troubleshooting support.
• Research Publication and Grant Data Development:
  Publish findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences. Generate preliminary data and develop grant figures for NIH submissions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with guidelines.
• In Vivo Model Management and Genotype Verification:
  Manage animal colonies of transgenic mice and validate genotyping results.
• Oversee laboratory operations, including procurement of reagents, grant budgets, and P-card reconciliation to ensure accurate financial tracking and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications: This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 5 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications: PhD with a minimum of five years of postdoctoral experience in a laboratory setting and at least two years of experience as a research scientist in a lung research laboratory.

Degree Equivalency Clause:
Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree.

• Senate Bill 1310
  - The Florida Senate: substitution of work experience for postsecondary education requirements.
• Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

About USF:
The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on any protected characteristic. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.

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 and maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process.

A request should be made at least five working days prior to the time the accommodation is needed.