Postdoctoral Scholar Research

Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Scholar Research role at University of South Florida Libraries

Location:

12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33612, US Salary: $54,000 – $70,344 Posting Date: 12/08/2025

The Reddy Lab at the University of South Florida (USF) seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to join our multidisciplinary team studying the structure, mechanism, evolution, and engineering of membrane transport proteins relevant to brain health. Our group integrates protein biochemistry, biophysical assays, deep‑scanning mutagenesis, structural biology, and bioinformatics to uncover fundamental principles governing neurotransmitter transporter function and enable novel therapeutic or engineering applications.

We provide a collegial, inclusive, and supportive environment that values curiosity, rigor, and teamwork. The chosen candidate will receive training in cutting‑edge biochemical, biophysical, and mutational‑mapping methods and will have access to premier USF and Moffitt Cancer Center facilities (cryo‑EM, genomics, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, NGS, structural biology, and drug discovery).

• Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, lead experimental projects focused on dissecting the molecular determinants of transporter function, substrate specificity, ion coupling, and conformational dynamics. Projects may involve:
  • Protein structure‑function studies: membrane‑protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical assays, structural determination with cryo‑EM.
  • Deep‑scanning mutagenesis and high‑throughput screening: library design, cloning, PCR‑based workflows, yeast/mammalian display, FACS sorting, and NGS‑based quantification.
  • Optional bioinformatics integration with ongoing molecular evolution and machine learning pipelines.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and communicate experiment progress transparently.
• Train and supervise students in laboratory procedures.
• Stay current on literature relevant to research areas.>
• Assemble and analyze research data, assist in manuscript preparation, and contribute to publications.
• Collaborate closely with both experimental and computational scientists.
• Participate in weekly meetings, help plan future projects, and foster an inclusive, supportive environment.

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

• Experience with experimental protein biochemistry/biophysics, structural biology, deep mutational scanning, directed evolution, library construction, or “omics” methods.
• Able to design rigorous, well‑controlled experiments.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to troubleshoot and learn new techniques.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, record‑keeping, and time‑management skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, molecular biology, or a related field (ABD considered with expected defense date).

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.

Applications may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.