Advanced Research Scientist

The Advanced Research Scientist Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. AN Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Pedram Hamrah, in the Department of Ophthalmology of University of South Florida. The level of work at this basic science lab is focused in immune mechanisms, with special emphasis of neuroimmune crosstalk in the cornea.

This position is Grant-Funded. This role is an on-site position. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

The successful applicant will work closely with the Principal Investigator on research projects studying
a) analyzing molecular mechanisms involved in how corneal leukocytes regulate the peripheral and central nervous
system; 
b) separating molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal regulation of corneal immune privilege, inflammation,
and immune homeostasis. 
c) As needed, the individual will be required to independently develop protocols and establish new methodologies
in the laboratory. The applicant would be intimately involved in writing and presenting new discoveries. 
d) Other responsibilities as needed 

• This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years
of experience.
• 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.

Preferred Qualification

MD/PhD or PhD

Excellent writing and communications skills
Strong background in immunology and/or neurosciences and molecular and cellular biology.
The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and have extensive experience with cell culture, immunological
assays, electrophysiology, and contemporary imaging techniques. A strong publication record is recommended.

 

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 and USF Health. In 2025, U.S. News & World Report recognized USF with its highest overall ranking in university history, as a top 50 public university for the seventh consecutive year and as one of the top 15 best values among all public universities in the nation. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in the highest tier, placing it as one of the top 16 medical schools in the nation and inside the top 10 among public universities. 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 $750 million in research funding in 2025 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 nearly $10 billion for the state of Florida. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.