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.
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 athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.
Compliance and Federal Notices
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.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) 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. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.
Equal Employment Opportunity
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.