Postdoctoral Scholar Research

The University of South Florida (USF) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to join the laboratory of Dr. Juan David Ramírez González in the College of Public Health. The lab focuses on the genomics, molecular epidemiology, and transmission dynamics of parasitic and vector-borne diseases, with a special emphasis on Trypanosoma cruzi and Chagas disease.

The selected postdoctoral researcher will play a key role in advancing projects centered on the vector biology, population genomics, bioinformatics, and evolutionary biology of triatomine vectors. This position offers the opportunity to integrate cutting-edge computational and experimental approaches to address fundamental questions in parasite–vector evolution and adaptation. Major research activities will include:

The fellow will have access to USF’s Genomics Program and Core Facilities, including Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, and PacBio sequencing platforms, and will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary network of entomologists, epidemiologists, evolutionary biologists, and public health professionals. Additional responsibilities include preparing manuscripts for publication, presenting at national and international conferences, mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, and contributing to grant development.
This position offers an excellent opportunity for a scientist with a strong background in vector biology, bioinformatics, and evolutionary and population genomics to develop an independent research profile while contributing to cutting-edge studies on Chagas disease and vector adaptation.

RESEARCH/SCHOLARSHIP DUTIES: 100% FTE

Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the vector biology, population genomics, and evolutionary dynamics of Trypanosoma cruzi triatomine vectors.

Generate, assemble, and annotate high-quality reference genomes for key triatomine species using Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, and/or PacBio sequencing platforms.

Apply bioinformatics and evolutionary biology approaches to investigate genetic diversity, gene flow, adaptation, and speciation processes in triatomine populations.

Perform comparative and functional genomic analyses to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying vector competence, host preference, and parasite–vector interactions.

Integrate genomic, ecological, and epidemiological datasets to generate insights into disease transmission and support risk prediction models for Chagas disease in the United States.

Develop and maintain bioinformatic workflows and data analysis pipelines for population and functional genomics studies.

Contribute to the preparation of peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and grant proposals.

Participate in the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, fostering skill development in genomics, bioinformatics, and evolutionary analyses.

Engage in collaborative research initiatives with national and international partners in vector genomics, parasitology, and public health.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF POSITION:

Conduct advanced research in vector biology, population genomics, and evolutionary biology, focusing on triatomine vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi.

Develop, implement, and optimize molecular and genomic workflows, including genome sequencing, assembly, annotation, and transcriptomic analysis.

Apply bioinformatics tools and evolutionary frameworks to analyze large genomic datasets and investigate population structure, adaptation, and gene flow among triatomine species.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of entomologists, evolutionary biologists, parasitologists, and public health scientists to integrate molecular, ecological, and epidemiological data.

Maintain accurate and organized research records, data pipelines, and documentation to ensure reproducibility and data integrity.

Prepare and submit scientific manuscripts, progress reports, and grant applications.

Present research findings at national and international conferences and contribute to the visibility of the lab’s work.

Participate in mentoring and training graduate and undergraduate students in laboratory and computational methods.

Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive laboratory environment that promotes innovation, integrity, and professional growth.

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.