Advanced Research Scientist

A full-time Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Bong Sook Jhun at the Heart Institute, Hypertension and Kidney Research Center, Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida.

The Jhun laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction that contribute to heart failure, with a specific focus on mitochondrial function and regulation mediated by stress-responsive protein kinases. 

The Advanced Research Scientist will conduct experiments that require standard and advanced scientific techniques, including biochemical, molecular biological, physiological, and cell biological methods. 

Conducting research in cardiovascular and mitochondrial biology, which includes designing, executing, and troubleshooting experiments, as well as analyzing and interpreting data. 

Contributing to the development of grant proposals and manuscripts, as well as laboratory safety and animal research protocols. 

Ensuring compliance with university and NIH research policies and procedures. 

Minimum Qualifications

This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

This position requires a PhD in physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, or a related field, along with at least 1 year of postdoctoral experience. The candidate should demonstrate high-level qualifications and in-depth knowledge in at least one of the following research areas: cardiovascular, pulmonary, biophysical, and/or mitochondrial research. Familiarity with at least two of the following techniques is preferred: the development of cardiovascular disease animal models (either surgical or genetic), in vivo cardiac function measurements, live-cell imaging using a confocal microscope, and mitochondrial functional assessments. 

 

Additional Information for Applicants:   Position is grant-funded

 

Degree Equivalency Clause: 
• Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) 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.

 

Working at USF

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.

About USF 

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