Postdoctoral Scholar Research

The laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms regulating cardiomyocyte proliferation, cell-cycle control, cytoskeletal remodeling, and myocardial regeneration, with the goal of developing novel regenerative therapies for heart disease. Our research integrates developmental biology, molecular genetics, RNA therapeutics, and advanced animal models to uncover endogenous mechanisms of cardiac repair while providing trainees with exceptional opportunities for scientific and professional development.

The Nguyen Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join a growing research program in cardiac regeneration and cardiovascular biology.
The successful candidate will lead independent and collaborative research projects investigating mechanisms of cardiac regeneration using cutting-edge approaches, including genetically engineered mouse models, neonatal and adult cardiac injury models, AAV- and modified mRNA-based gene delivery, CRISPR genome engineering, single-cell and spatial genomics, high-resolution imaging, and functional cardiovascular phenotyping.
This position offers strong mentorship, access to outstanding institutional resources, and extensive opportunities for collaboration within the USF Health Heart Institute, CRM, and the broader USF research community.

• Design, perform, and analyze experiments in cardiovascular and regenerative biology.
• Lead independent research projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure scientific rigor and reproducibility.
• Prepare manuscripts, fellowship applications, and grant proposals.
• Present research findings at laboratory meetings and national/international conferences.
• Mentor graduate students, undergraduate students, and research staff.
• Comply with institutional, federal, and NIH policies governing the Responsible Conduct of Research, laboratory safety, and ethical use of animal models.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree 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.

Applicants should submit:
• Cover letter describing research interests and career goals
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Contact information for three professional references

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree in cardiovascular biology, molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, genetics, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in molecular biology, especially molecular cloning, recombinant DNA technology, and plasmid construction.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, gene delivery, CRISPR genome editing, mouse models, or cardiovascular research is preferred.
• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent organizational, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Experience in one or more of the following is desirable:

• Rodent surgery and cardiovascular disease models
• Cell culture and gene delivery techniques
• High-resolution microscopy and image analysis
• Single-cell or spatial genomics
• Protein biochemistry, purification, HPLC, mass spectrometry, or proteomics

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.
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SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements
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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
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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.
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Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.