Postdoctoral Scholar Research

Job Description

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Pedram Hamrah, in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of South Florida. Dr. Hamrah’s laboratory focuses on corneal immunology, neuroscience, and intravital imaging, with a special emphasis on neuro‑immune crosstalk in the cornea. The successful candidate will conduct and participate in research for specific projects or programs within a department, college, or interdisciplinary program.

The candidate may also be responsible for teaching if part of a specific program.

This Position is Time‑Limited.

The successful applicant will work closely with the Principal Investigator on research projects studying: a) molecular mechanisms involved in how corneal leukocytes regulate the peripheral and central nervous system; and b) molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal regulation of corneal immune privilege, inflammation, and immune homeostasis. The applicant will, as needed, independently develop protocols and establish new laboratory methodologies. The applicant will be intimately involved in writing and presenting new discoveries and will have a strong publication record.

Collaborate with other research and extension personnel affiliated with research activities involving the area/field of Ophthalmology. The postdoctoral scholar is expected to engage in research activities or outreach activities, such as:

• Publications that acknowledge the Postdoc's significant and meaningful contribution to the work.
• Active dissemination of information beyond campus boundaries through informal instruction, presentations at regional/national meetings, publications, or other means stemming from the Postdoctoral Scholar's research accomplishments.

Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations. Participate in activities of committees within the department, college, campus, and other University entities, as appropriate and with PI supervisory approval.

Doctoral degree (MD, PhD) 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.

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, ranking No.

1 among the state’s 12 public universities.

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.

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. Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodations 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.

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.