Research Assistant Scientist

About the role

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and community. If you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).

Responsibilities

• Research related to a tomato project and assistance with the citrus project EPA and FDA regulations.
• Field sampling, extractions, and analysis of samples from a multi-year tomato project.
• Preparing documents for EPA submission and assessment for possible commercial citrus lines as well as label approval from the FDA.
• Contributing to the management of lab personnel.
• Participating in grant writing as a PI or co-PI on grant proposals serving as lead PI.

Requirements

• Minimum: Doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable) in the life sciences, plant science, or other closely related disciplines.
• Experience: Demonstrated skills in verbal and written communication and publication/dissemination of scholarly work in the field.
• Technical Skills: Demonstrated experience in a research setting with analysis, visualization, and interpretation of large datasets, preferably of sensitive data types such as student information or patient data.
• Mission Support: Commitment to the mission of the Land-Grant system and UF core values.

Qualifications

• Education: Doctorate (foreign equivalent acceptable).
• Experience: Postdoctoral experience is desirable.
• Support: Supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system.
• Values: Committed to UF core values.

Skills

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Research: Experience in a research setting with analysis, visualization, and interpretation of large datasets.
• Grant Writing: Ability to participate in grant writing as a PI or co-PI on grant proposals.

Benefits

N/A

Pay

Commensurate with Education and Experience

Schedule

12-month non-tenure-accruing position available in the Microbiology and Cell Science Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

Application Information

• To apply, visit Careers at UF and submit:
• A cover letter stating your interest in the position and qualifications relative to the credentials listed above.
• Your curriculum vitae.
• Contact information for three individuals willing to write letters of recommendation.
• Unofficial transcripts.
• A research statement with a maximum of 1,500 words.
• A teaching statement with a maximum of 1,000 words.

Special Instructions

To Applicants: For full consideration, candidates should apply and submit materials by August 23, 2026. The position will remain open until a viable applicant pool is determined. Employment conditions: This position is available January 2027 and will be filled as soon thereafter as an acceptable applicant is identified. Compensation is commensurate with the education, experience, and qualifications of the selected applicant.

Nominations

Nominations are welcome. Nominations need to include the complete name and address of the nominee. This information should be sent to [Please refer to Requisition # 540532 Dr Zhonglin Mou Chair, Search and Screen Committee University of Florida Microbiology and Cell Science Department University of Florida 1355 Museum Drive Gainesville, FL 32611 Telephone: 352-392-5430 Electronic Mail: zhlmou@ufl.edu]