Description

An Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Theresa Currier Thomas at the University of South Florida to advance studies in traumatic brain injury (TBI). A successful candidate will manage and execute multiple experimental projects, including behavioral testing, surgeries, in vivo electrochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical analyses. The position will involve both hands-on experimental work and coordination of laboratory operations. As the lab grows, the candidate will play a key role in training and supervising junior staff and trainees.Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree required; candidates with equivalent professional experience in a neurotrauma or neuroscience research laboratory may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Strong motivation, independence, and a proactive approach to seeking and incorporating feedback from peers and colleagues.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with enthusiasm for contributing to a collaborative, team-science environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic imaging or data analysis software.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's and Master's degrees from an accredited institution in biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, neuroscience, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in one or more relevant areas, such as animal handling and surgery, behavioral testing, molecular or biochemical assays, or histological analysis.
• Familiarity with in vivo techniques (e.g., electrochemistry or electrophysiology) is highly desirable.
• Strong record of initiative, dependability, and capacity to mentor or guide junior trainees.

Level 1 background check required.

Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree.
• Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S.
• SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements
• A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:
• (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
• (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree;
• (c) Six years of direct experience for a master's degree;
• (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
• (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree
• Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment.
• Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.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.

• Research Execution: Plan, conduct, and analyze animal-based experiments involving behavioral testing, surgical procedures, in vivo electrochemistry, and histological and biochemical assays. Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebooks and records.
• Laboratory Operations: Oversee lab organization, documentation, and safety compliance (IACUC, Biosafety, and Chemical Safety). Manage inventory and equipment maintenance, and ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are created, updated, and followed.
• Training & Mentorship: Provide technical training and daily guidance to students, interns, and technicians. Promote adherence to laboratory standards and best practices while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and efficient research environment.
• Animal Care Oversight: Coordinate animal orders and census, maintain accurate records, and assist with pre- and post-operative care to ensure ethical and efficient procedures in compliance with institutional standards.
• Data & Reporting: Analyze data, prepare figures, and contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and grant materials. Actively participate in lab meetings and journal clubs, and present findings at local and national scientific meetings.
• Leadership & Growth: Develop advanced technical and leadership skills with the goal of supervising future team members, leading projects, and contributing to the development of new research directions and funding initiatives.
• Collaborative Engagement: Engage in multidisciplinary research, share expertise with collaborators, and contribute to building a high-performing, innovative resear ch team dedicated to advancing the lab's scientific mission.