Advanced Research Scientist - Transcriptomics

The successful applicant will be expected to computationally analyze transcriptomes generated from seagrass undergoing viral infection compared to those without viruses, under different salinity and temperature conditions.

This position is available immediately but there is flexibility in start date. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Funding is currently available through July 30, 2026 ; however, extension is possible given availability of grant funding and satisfactory performance. This position has an annual salary of $57,000-62,000 plus benefits, commensurate with experience. Please submit a CV and cover letter.

Minimum Qualifications:

• This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years of experience.
• Demonstrated research skills in transcriptomics
• Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC) environments, Linux/Unix scripting, and GitHub for version control
• Demonstrated ability to write and publish papers

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in biology, microbiology, cell biology, plant biology, computational biology, bioinformatics, genetics, molecular biology, oceanography, marine sciences or related field at the time of appointment
• Experience analyzing large-scale transcriptome data from non-model organisms with poorly annotated genomes
• Experience working with the plant genomes/transcriptomes
Experience with high-performance computing systems

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 www.usf.edu .

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 :

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.