Postdoctoral Scholar Research

Location & Salary

• Locations 4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33620, US
• Hiring Salary $52500 - $65640

The Heckmann Lab at USF Health Neuroscience Institute and Byrd Alzheimer’s Center is recruiting two postdoctoral fellows for appointment effective immediately. Our laboratory studies the molecular regulation of the neuroimmune system. We are seeking highly motivated and independent individuals to explore the role and potential therapeutic capacity of targeting cellular bioenergetics in neuroinflammation and aging biology.

As a postdoc in the Heckmann Lab, you will lead novel independent studies to address outstanding scientific questions and leverage gained knowledge for the development of new therapeutic avenues for difficult‑to‑treat diseases. This position does require significant independence both experimentally and conceptually.

• Minimum Qualifications Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or MD. Ph.D. in a related field from an accredited institution. Must meet university criteria for appointment at the rank of Postdoctoral Fellow.
• Preferred Qualifications The position requires the applicant to have successfully completed a graduate level Ph.D., M.D., or Ph.D./M.D. degree. Qualified applicants should have extensive knowledge of general molecular biology techniques and experience directly using mice as an experimental model. They should have a strong publication record in recognized international peer‑reviewed journals. The ideal applicant will be willing to seek extramural funding as a step towards career progression, although independent funding is not required to support this position.
  
  The selected applicant will further be expected to participate in all department‑ and lab‑related career advancement opportunities including journal clubs, seminars, and workshops.

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.

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 .edu.

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

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.

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.

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.