Description

The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology invites applications for two tenure-track open rank (Assistant, Associate, and Full Professor) faculty positions as part of the establishment of our new RNA Center.  We seek exceptional scientists working at the interface of chemistry and biology, exploring fundamental and translational aspects of RNA structure, function, and therapeutic potential.

This recruitment is part of a strategic initiative to build a world-class RNA research hub, fostering collaborations across the NCI-designated UF Health Cancer Center, the McKnight Brain Institute, and research areas spanning chemistry, infectious diseases, immunology, and neuroscience on the University of Florida’s Jupiter and Gainesville campuses. Successful candidates will contribute to the expansion of RNA science and its applications in precision medicine, disease biology, and therapeutics.

We encourage applications from researchers advancing RNA biology and translational medicine in areas such as:

• RNA structure, modifications, and epitranscriptomics
• RNA-protein and RNA-small molecule interactions
• RNA-based therapeutics, including antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA, and mRNA therapies
• RNA regulation in cancer, neurobiology, infectious diseases, and immune function

Research Environment & Infrastructure:

The successful candidates will have access to world-class infrastructure at UF Scripps Biomedical Research in Jupiter and UF’s Gainesville campus, enabling cutting-edge RNA research and therapeutic development:

• State-of-the-art core facilities for genomics, proteomics, cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, NMR, microscopy, flow cytometry, high-content imaging, and high-throughput small molecule screening.
• HiPerGator, one of the most powerful academic high-performance computing systems, supporting AI, bioinformatics, and large-scale data analysis.
• The UF Health Cancer Center, an NCI-designated cancer center, providing opportunities for translation into cancer therapeutics.
• The McKnight Brain Institute, one of the largest neuroscience research centers in the country, supporting neurobiology and neurodegeneration research.
• The Emerging Pathogens Institute, fostering research into infectious disease and RNA virus biology.
• Extensive medicinal chemistry and drug discovery infrastructure, including automated synthesis platforms, structural biology pipelines, and pharmacokinetics facilities.
• A top-ranked, bicoastal Scripps Research Ph.D. graduate program, providing access to outstanding trainees.
• A highly collaborative scientific community, with faculty across chemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, immunology, structural biology, and pharmacology.

We’re committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining top talent by valuing diversity of thought, skill, and experience. As an equal opportunity employer, we believe in fostering environments where team members feel included, valued for their differences, and empowered to do their best work.

Applications should be submitted through https://apply.interfolio.com/165224 and include:

1) A cover letter

2) A curriculum vitae

3) A research statement

4) The names of three referees.  Please include email and phone number.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration given to those received by May 15, 2025.  If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call (352) 392-2HRS or the Florida Relay System at (800) 955-8771 (TDD).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Florida is an equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive faculty and staff. The University of Florida invites all qualified applicants, including minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under the Florida Sunshine and Public Records laws.

Requirements

Min Quals – Candidates must have a PhD, MD or equivalent in a relevant discipline (e.g., chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology, immunology, neuroscience); a strong record of research excellence and innovation; a commitment to mentorship, diversity, and interdisciplinary collaboration; and the ability to establish and sustain an independent, extramurally funded research program.