Advanced Research Scientist

Location:

4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33620, US

POSITION SUMMARY:

An Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Theresa Currier Thomas at the University of South Florida to advance studies in traumatic brain injury (TBI). A successful candidate will manage and execute multiple experimental projects, including behavioral testing, surgeries, in vivo electrochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical analyses. The position will involve both hands‑on experimental work and coordination of laboratory operations.

As the lab grows, the candidate will play a key role in training and supervising junior staff and trainees.

DUTIES:

• Research Execution:
  Plan, conduct, and analyze animal‑based experiments involving behavioral testing, surgical procedures, in vivo electrochemistry, and histological and biochemical assays. Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory notebooks and records.
• Laboratory Operations:
  Oversee lab organization, documentation, and safety compliance (IACUC, Biosafety, and Chemical Safety). Manage inventory and equipment maintenance, and ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are created, updated, and followed.
• Training & Mentorship:
  Provide technical training and daily guidance to students, interns, and technicians. Promote adherence to laboratory standards and best practices while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and efficient research environment.
• Animal Care Oversight:
  Coordinate animal orders and census, maintain accurate records, and assist with pre‑ and post‑operative care to ensure ethical and efficient procedures in compliance with institutional standards.
• Data & Reporting:
  Analyze data, prepare figures, and contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and grant materials. Actively participate in lab meetings and journal clubs, and present findings at local and national scientific meetings.
• Leadership & Growth:
  Develop advanced technical and leadership skills with the goal of supervising future team members, leading projects, and contributing to the development of new research directions and funding initiatives.
• Collaborative Engagement:
  Engage in multidisciplinary research, share expertise with collaborators, and contribute to building a high‑performing, innovative research team dedicated to advancing the lab’s scientific mission.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree required; candidates with equivalent professional experience in a neurotrauma or neuroscience research laboratory may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Strong motivation, independence, and a proactive approach to seeking and incorporating feedback from peers and colleagues.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with enthusiasm for contributing to a collaborative, team‑science environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic imaging or data analysis software.

Degree Equivalency Clause:
Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree.

• Senate Bill 1310
- The Florida Senate (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S.

• SB 1310:
Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements

• A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:
• (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
• (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree;
• (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree;
• (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
• (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree

• Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment.

• Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from an accredited institution in…