Description

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in Pediatrics at University of South Florida Morsani School of Medicine in the laboratory of Dr. Tara M. Randis. Our lab is focused on understanding the mechanisms by which maternal infections contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Using novel organotypic and animal models, we examine the roles of specific microbial factors and the ensuring host innate immune response to the development of intraamniotic infection, still birth, preterm delivery and neonatal sepsis. Successful candidates will have demonstrated experience in animal models of infection; bacterial culture, transformation, and transfection; cell culture infection assays; microbiome analysis; flow cytometry and standard molecular biology techniques.Required Education and Experience

• PhD in Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field (or Master's degree with significant research experience)

Preferred Qualifications

• Competencies with basic biostatistics and bioinformatics methods and supporting software tools.

• Effective at troubleshooting and optimizing protocols.

• Excellent organizational, record-keeping, communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work effectively in a team.

Working at USF
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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.
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About USF
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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 .
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Compliance and Federal Notices
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This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
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Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws :
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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.
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Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
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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.
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Equal Employment Opportunity
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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.

• Independently design and perform complex laboratory experiments following standard operating procedures.

• Contribute to technical writing for grant submissions and peer-reviewed publications.

• Assist in mentoring and training PhD/MD students and fellows.