Research Associate

Job Description

The USF Health Transplant Research Center, led by Dr. Ruisheng Liu, conducts basic and translational research in solid organ transplantation and remote organ injury following transplantation. The center seeks to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that expand the donor pool, reduce graft and remote organ injury, extend organ preservation time, and improve long-term transplant outcomes. Its interdisciplinary program brings together basic scientists and clinicians to investigate mechanisms of organ injury before and after transplantation, with relevance to kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas transplantation.


The Research Associate will report to Dr. Liu and contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and communication of research conducted within UTRC. The successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment and will be expected to exercise sound scientific judgment, maintain rigorous research practices, and communicate findings effectively. The position is intended for a scientist who is prepared to develop an independent research trajectory, pursue external research funding, and contribute to the center's research and mentoring activities. Teaching responsibilities may be assigned when required by a specific program.

Responsibilities

Design, conduct, troubleshoot, and document experiments aligned with UTRC research priorities.

• Acquire, analyze, interpret, and present research data using appropriate and reproducible methods.

• Integrate relevant scientific literature into experimental design, data interpretation, manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.

• Prepare and contribute to manuscripts, abstracts, scientific reports, and other research communications.

• Develop and submit applications for independent research funding, with guidance as appropriate.

• Present research findings at departmental seminars and regional, national, or international scientific meetings.

• Mentor graduate students and other trainees and support a collaborative, productive research environment.

• Develop an independent area of investigation that supports progression toward an independent research career.

• Perform other research or teaching duties associated with the position or a specific program, as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum:

• Doctoral degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field.

• Appropriate research experience and training in the selected area of specialization, including more than two years of postdoctoral research experience.

• Evidence of the ability to design and conduct research, analyze data, and communicate scientific findings.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively and to meet University criteria for appointment at the rank of Research Associate.

Preferred:

• Research experience in molecular biology, mitochondrial function, and/or multi-omics analysis.

• A strong publication record appropriate to career stage.

• Experience preparing or contributing to competitive grant applications, including trainee or independent funding applications.

• Strong scientific writing, critical-thinking, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple research priorities effectively.

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 .

About Us

Working at USF

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.

About USF

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

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 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.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.