Research Assistant Scientist

Position Overview

This 12-month non-tenure-track faculty position, based at the University of Florida's Main Campus in Gainesville, FL, is fully dedicated to research within the Microbiology and Cell Science Department of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). The role involves conducting research on tomato projects as well as supporting citrus projects with regulatory compliance related to EPA and FDA. Candidates must hold the highest possible degree in a relevant field with demonstrated pertinent experience and a commitment to the land-grant mission encompassing research, teaching, and extension.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research involving field sampling, extraction, and analysis of samples for a multi-year tomato study.
• Assist with preparing documentation and submissions for EPA and FDA regulations concerning commercial citrus lines and label approvals.
• Manage laboratory personnel and contribute to team leadership.
• Lead or co-lead grant proposal development and writing efforts.

Qualifications and Experience

• Doctorate degree (or foreign equivalent) in life sciences, plant sciences, or closely related disciplines.
• Proven experience in research environments involving analysis, visualization, and interpretation of large and sensitive datasets.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with track record of scholarship and dissemination.
• Supportive of the land-grant mission and core values of the University of Florida.
• Postdoctoral experience is preferred.

Additional Information

The University of Florida is a major research university with extensive interdisciplinary resources including one of the world’s most powerful university-based supercomputers, HiPerGator 3.0. The Genetics Institute fosters genetics and genomics research across multiple colleges. The Microbiology and Cell Science Department serves a large and diverse student body with focus on computational and bioinformatics training, aligning with regional developments in aerospace and space sciences. IFAS comprises numerous departments, research and educational centers, and statewide extension services, supporting a broad agricultural and life sciences mission.

Application Instructions

• Submit a cover letter explaining interest and relevant qualifications.
• Provide curriculum vitae and unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon hiring; foreign degrees must be credential evaluated).
• Include contact details for three references willing to provide recommendation letters.
• Submit research statement (up to 1,500 words) and teaching statement (up to 1,000 words).

Applicants are encouraged to apply by August 23, 2026, for full consideration. The position is expected to be filled starting January 2027 and remains open until suitable candidates are identified. Hiring is contingent upon legal right to work in the United States.

Salary

Compensation will be commensurate with education and experience.

Contact Information

Queries and nominations can be directed to Dr. Zhonglin Mou, Chair of the Search and Screen Committee, Microbiology and Cell Science Department, University of Florida, 1355 Museum Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611, phone: 352-392-5430, email: [email protected].