Research Associate

An Assistant Professor Level scientist position (Tenure Earning, Collaborative Track) is available in the laboratory of Dr. Fadi Matar in collaboration with Dr. Thomas McDonald. Funding for the startup of this laboratory has been secured through philanthropy. The selected applicant will assist Drs. Matar and McDonald in the foundation of the “Ruberg Cardiovascular 3D Printing and Bio-Innovation Research Center”. Dr. Matar is Chief of Cardiology at USF and the founding director of the 3D Cardiovascular Printing Program at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Heart and Vascular Institute (HVI). Dr. McDonald is the Director of the USF-Health Heart Institute and is the Founding Director of the USF Cardiogenetics Program.

The Scientist is expected to supervise and work closely with 2 post-doctoral fellows who are currently employed with the goal of initiating translational research projects focusing on stem-cell based bioprinting of cardiovascular tissues such as aortic valves and arterial conduits. The laboratory has state-of-the-art, advanced technologies such as Advanced Solutions Life Sciences (ASLS) BAB-400 robotic bioprinter with integrated Molecular Devices confocal microscope and incubator along with full cell culture laboratory equipment and support. The scientist will develop projects and is expected to demonstrate independence in the design and implementation of the daily activities required for the conduct of the research program. Drs. Matar and McDonald will work with the Scientist to ensure their career development and to help them secure additional federal funding opportunities in the future..

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.