Job Description:
The Center for Inflammation Sciences and Systems Medicine (CISSM) at the Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation and Technology is seeking applications for a non-tenure track Assistant Professor / Associate Professor position in the Laboratory of Joe GN Garcia MD, Wertheim Professor of Molecular Medicine and AVP for UF Health Research. This is a full time, 12 month appointment. Academic rank and salary will align with experience and qualifications.
We are looking for a scientist with strong biochemistry and molecular biology skills and a record of research productivity and solid publication history in inflammation biology, vascular medicine, systems medicine, or related areas. Candidates should demonstrate evidence of high quality collaborations across disciplines, and a clear commitment to advancing translational research. Experience with mechanistic studies, molecular and cellular models of inflammation, preclinical models of lung injury or fibrosis, or expertise that complements ongoing Garcia Lab and CISSM programs will be viewed favorably.
The successful candidate will be expected to lead and contribute to funded research projects, support the development and management of new scientific initiatives within CISSM, and collaborate with faculty across UF Scripps and UF Health. Responsibilities include mentoring trainees, contributing to grant development, strengthening multidisciplinary partnerships, and participating in collaborative manuscript development. Teaching expectations are limited but may include occasional guest lectures or specialized training sessions related to the candidate’s expertise. The appropriate candidate will have excellent writing skills for manuscript and grant applications.
CISSM is housed within a top tier biomedical research institute that maintains strong federal funding, active collaborations across UF campuses, and a clear mission to accelerate discovery in inflammation science and translational medicine. The Garcia Lab and CISSM collectively maintain robust basic and translational research portfolios in clinical disorders (ARDS, PPF MASH, SLE, RDS, IBD, cancer) characterized by inflammation and organ fibrosis, vascular inflammation, with a focus on development of novel therapeutics. The selected candidate will join a highly collaborative environment supported by strong institutional resources and a growing scientific community.
Lead independent and collaborative research projects focused on inflammation biology, pulmonary disease, vascular injury, fibrosis, or related mechanisms, ensuring high scientific rigor and compliance.
Develop, manage, and contribute to grant proposals, manuscripts, and other research deliverables that advance Garcia Lab and CISSM programs. Support ongoing large scale center initiatives, including multicenter studies, programmatic grants, and translational collaborations.
Mentor and train graduate students, postdocs, and research staff in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication.
Contribute to CISSM’s strategic growth through scientific leadership, participation in program development, and occasional specialized teaching or training. Participate in internal meetings, scientific retreats, and CISSM program development activities.
Assist with manuscript review, grant review, and other academic service that supports the mission of CISSM and UF Scripps. Contribute to and oversee research rigor, data integrity, and compliance with all UF, NIH, and regulatory guidelines.
Expected Salary:
Commensurate with experience.
Required Qualifications:
Record of creative scholarly work (peer-reviewed publications, research contributions) beyond what is expected at junior faculty level.
Demonstrated research experience in areas relevant to the lab’s focus (e.g. inflammation mechanisms, lung/vascular injury, fibrosis, preclinical models) along with evidence of ability to design and carry out independent experiments.
The role requires sustained concentration, critical thinking, and the ability to manage multiple complex research activities at once while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Physical demands include routine work at the bench such as pipetting, standing for extended periods, handling laboratory reagents, and operating standard research equipment.
The position works in a laboratory environment that may involve exposure to biohazards, chemicals, and specialized research materials. All work must follow institutional safety guidelines.
Regular use of laboratory instruments such as microscopes, biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, flow cytometers, cryostorage systems, and related devices is required.
The role also depends on frequent computer use for data analysis, manuscript and grant preparation, virtual collaboration, and research documentation.
The position requires adaptability and sound judgment in fast moving scientific settings, along with the ability to troubleshoot experiments, manage competing deadlines, and respond to unexpected research challenges.
Preferred:
Evidence of ability to mentor and guide graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other research staff in experimental design, benchwork, data analysis, and research best-practices.
Capability to lead and contribute to grant proposals, manage funded research projects, and produce high-quality manuscripts.
Willingness to collaborate with other investigators, build cross-disciplinary partnerships, and contribute to the growth of the center’s research portfolio.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.
Please provide names and email addresses of three to five references as part of the application process. When ready, the hiring department will contact the listed references via email requesting their reference letters to be uploaded directly to the application website.
This position is open until filled. Application review will begin February 6, 2026.
The University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.
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) or visit Accessibility at UF.
This is a time-limited position.
Health Assessment Required: Yes.
