Postdoctoral Fellow of Research

The Morsani College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease & International Medicine, invites applications for Postdoctoral Scholar Positions to join Dr. Song lab at the University of South Florida. Dr. Song’ lab mainly focuses on the molecular virology of HIV, with the long-term goal to develop HIV prevention and functional cure strategies. Currently, there are three research directions: 1) The molecular mechanisms underlying virus entry pathway evolution driven by host immune pressure (the “escape by shifting” concept). This research direction is supported by a recently awarded NIH R01 grant. 2) The CD4 T cell subset preference of HIV in determining HIV transmissibility and pathogenesis. 3) The global phenotypic diversity of HIV and its implications for HIV vaccine and therapeutics.

The lab is located at the USF Research Park Building. The selected candidates will have the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment with investigators from the Global Virus Network and USF.

Salary will be competitive with entry-level postdoctoral work, with travel support available to attend national and international meetings.

The position will be available immediately. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.

Research design.

Performing experiments related to the research projects.

Training students and other lab members.

Preparing manuscripts for peer review journals.

Doctoral degree from an accredited institution and appropriate experience and training within a selected area of specialization. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Postdoctoral Fellow.

Those with previous experience in virology, molecular biology and bioinformatics/genetic analysis are particularly encouraged to apply.

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 :

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.