The University of Florida is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position in the Department of Ophthalmology at its main campus in Gainesville, FL. This translational research opportunity focuses on leading the preclinical development of genetically engineered probiotic therapeutics designed to treat diabetes and related metabolic disorders.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Associate |
| Department | Department of Ophthalmology (College of Medicine) |
| Research Area | Microbiome Therapeutics, Pharmacology, Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders, Bioengineering |
| Location | Main Campus, Gainesville, Florida, USA |
| Remuneration | Commensurate with experience |
| Application Deadline | November 6, 2026 (11:55 PM EST) |
Research Area
The research is centered at the interface of pharmacology, microbiology, and bioengineering. The primary focus of the role is the preclinical development and optimization of genetically engineered probiotic therapeutics targeting diabetes and metabolic diseases, evaluating pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), bioavailability, and overall therapeutic efficacy in animal models.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- A Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated expertise in in vivo pharmacology, rodent models of diabetes, PK/PD analysis, microbiome therapeutics, and peptide biologics.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the capability to manage projects independently.
- Willingness and ability to complete a mandatory health assessment for working with animals.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2 to 5 years of hands-on research experience utilizing rodent models of diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
- A robust publication track record in metabolic disease research, drug delivery, or microbiome therapeutics.
- Prior experience working across interdisciplinary teams encompassing bioengineering, toxicology, pharmacology, and microbiology.
Job Description & Key Responsibilities
The selected Postdoctoral Associate will play a central role in driving translational projects forward. Responsibilities include:
- Designing and executing preclinical studies involving dose-response, bioavailability, toxicology, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic efficacy in rodent models.
- Engineering, modifying, and characterizing probiotic bacterial strains.
- Developing and validating bioanalytical assays for quantitative study readouts.
- Performing rigorous data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation.
- Drafting manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication, contributing to research grant proposals, and preparing regulatory documentation.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified researchers should apply online via the University of Florida job portal. Please ensure you prepare and upload the following required application materials:
- Cover Letter: Detailing your interest in the position.
- Research Statement: Summarizing your relevant technical expertise, career goals, and a comprehensive list of publications.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting educational background, research experience, and awards.
- Professional References: Contact information for three professional references (letters should be addressed to Qiuhong Li, PhD, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology; a reference list is acceptable if letters are unavailable at the time of submission).
Last Date for Apply
Applications must be submitted by November 06, 2026, at 11:55 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Apply Link
To view the official university posting and complete the application process, please visit the official application portal below:
Apply Online for UF Postdoctoral Associate (Job no: 541692)
