Classification Title:Postdoctoral AssociateClassification Minimum RequirementsPhD degree (within a year) in biological sciences (e.g. molecular biology, cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, biology, biomedical sciences, chemistry and related fields)Job Description:Join our research team at the University of Floridas Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, in the Srivastava Lab, where groundbreaking science meets meaningful impact. Were seeking a dedicated Postdoctoral Associate to contribute to innovative research focused on capsid- and genome-modified next generation recombinant AAV vectors that are more efficient at significantly lower doses for the potential gene therapy of a number of human diseases.About the OpportunityWorking within the Srivastava Lab on our Main Campus in Gainesville, Florida, youll engage in cutting-edge AAV vector research alongside a collaborative team of scientists and clinicians. This position offers the chance to develop your expertise in gene therapy while contributing to studies that could transform patient care and treatment outcomes across multiple disease areas.What Youll Do:Design and execute research projects involving AAV vector engineering and optimizationDevelop capsid modifications to enhance vector efficiency and reduce dosage requirementsAnalyze complex datasets from gene therapy experiments and interpret resultsCollaborate with interdisciplinary teams across pediatrics and molecular medicinePrepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications in gene therapy researchPresent findings at national and international conferencesMentor graduate students and research assistants in AAV vector methodologiesContribute to grant writing and funding applicationsWhat Were Looking For:PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology, Gene Therapy, or related fieldExperience with AAV vector systems and viral vector engineering preferredStrong background in molecular cloning, protein expression, and cell cultureKnowledge of gene therapy approaches and vector delivery systemsProficiency in data analysis software and statistical methodsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work independently while contributing to team goalsCommitment to inclusive research practices and diverse perspectivesWhy University of Florida?Our campus fosters an environment where different backgrounds and perspectives strengthen our research community. Youll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, extensive professional development opportunities, and the chance to work with renowned faculty members who are leaders in gene therapy research.Ready to advance the future of gene therapy? Wed love to hear from you.Expected Salary:Commensurate with education and experience.Required Qualifications:PhD degree (within 2 years) in biological sciences (e.g., molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or related fields)PreferredThe ideal candidate is expected to be highly motivated with a strong work ethic and demonstrated creativity with prior publications, as well as:Two first-author peer-reviewed publications in English language journalsExperience in mammalian cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques including cloning, qPCR, RT-qPCR, cloning, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and Southern and Western blottingComputer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, GraphPad, Photoshop, SnapGene, etcExperience in virology, AAV vectorologyExperience with handling laboratory animalsSpecial Instructions to Applicants:Applications should include a curriculum vitae (CV), and a cover letter including a brief description of research experience and future goals, and contact information for three professional references.Review of applications will begin on immediately and will continue until a sufficient applicant pool has been established.Final candidate will be required to provide official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible. Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found athttp://www.naces.org/. (http://www.naces.org/)If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).Health Assessment Required:Yes