Research Scientist Jobs in Florida
Research Scientist jobs in Florida are in high demand, with active hiring concentrated in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, marine science, and aerospace, at levels from entry-level research associate through principal scientist. The busiest hiring markets are Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, where employers such as Moffitt Cancer Center, L3Harris Technologies, and Johnson and Johnson have deep roots in the state. Biomedical research, materials science, and environmental science are among the most consistently sought specializations across Florida's research institutions and private sector labs. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 16+ Research Scientist jobs
The Advanced Research Scientist Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. AN Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Pedram Hamrah, in the Department of Ophthalmology of University of South Florida. The level of work at this basic science lab is focused in immune mechanisms, with special emphasis of neuroimmune crosstalk in the cornea.
This position is Grant-Funded. This role is an on-site position. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
The successful applicant will work closely with the Principal Investigator on research projects studying
a) analyzing molecular mechanisms involved in how corneal leukocytes regulate the peripheral and central nervous
system;
b) separating molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal regulation of corneal immune privilege, inflammation,
and immune homeostasis.
c) As needed, the individual will be required to independently develop protocols and establish new methodologies
in the laboratory. The applicant would be intimately involved in writing and presenting new discoveries.
d) Other responsibilities as needed
- This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years
- Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is
- SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements
- A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an
- (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
- (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree;
- (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree;
- (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
- (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree
- Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration
advertised description of the position of employment.
- Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.
Preferred Qualification
MD/PhD or PhD
Excellent writing and communications skills
Strong background in immunology and/or neurosciences and molecular and cellular biology.
The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and have extensive experience with cell culture, immunological
assays, electrophysiology, and contemporary imaging techniques. A strong publication record is recommended.
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 and USF Health. In 2025, U.S. News & World Report recognized USF with its highest overall ranking in university history, as a top 50 public university for the seventh consecutive year and as one of the top 15 best values among all public universities in the nation. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in the highest tier, placing it as one of the top 16 medical schools in the nation and inside the top 10 among public universities. 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 $750 million in research funding in 2025 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 nearly $10 billion for the state of Florida. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .
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.
The Advanced Research Scientist Performs a variety of lab and/or field experiments which require competency with standard and more advanced scientific techniques and equipment in disciplines such as molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, physiology, and pathology/microscopy. AN Advanced Research Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Pedram Hamrah, in the Department of Ophthalmology of University of South Florida. The level of work at this basic science lab is focused in immune mechanisms, with special emphasis of neuroimmune crosstalk in the cornea.
This position is Grant-Funded. This role is an on-site position. This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.
The successful applicant will work closely with the Principal Investigator on research projects studying
a) analyzing molecular mechanisms involved in how corneal leukocytes regulate the peripheral and central nervous
system;
b) separating molecular mechanisms involved in neuronal regulation of corneal immune privilege, inflammation,
and immune homeostasis.
c) As needed, the individual will be required to independently develop protocols and establish new methodologies
in the laboratory. The applicant would be intimately involved in writing and presenting new discoveries.
d) Other responsibilities as needed
- This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical or medical science with 2 years
- Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is
- SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements
- A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an
- (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
- (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree;
- (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree;
- (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
- (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree
- Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration
advertised description of the position of employment.
- Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.
Preferred Qualification
MD/PhD or PhD
Excellent writing and communications skills
Strong background in immunology and/or neurosciences and molecular and cellular biology.
The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and have extensive experience with cell culture, immunological
assays, electrophysiology, and contemporary imaging techniques. A strong publication record is recommended.
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 and USF Health. In 2025, U.S. News & World Report recognized USF with its highest overall ranking in university history, as a top 50 public university for the seventh consecutive year and as one of the top 15 best values among all public universities in the nation. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine in the highest tier, placing it as one of the top 16 medical schools in the nation and inside the top 10 among public universities. 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 $750 million in research funding in 2025 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 nearly $10 billion for the state of Florida. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .
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.
See All 16 Research Scientist Jobs in Florida
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Find Research Scientist JobsResearch Scientist Jobs by City in Florida
Where Florida roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Scientist Job Market in Florida
A snapshot from current Florida openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Chemicals & Materials
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Florida Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research scientist jobs across Florida.
- PhD or master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or physics
- Demonstrated laboratory research experience including experimental design and data analysis
- Proficiency with statistical software and scientific computing tools used in Florida lab environments
- Strong publication record or contribution to peer-reviewed research in your scientific specialty
- Experience collaborating on multidisciplinary research teams within academic or industry settings
- Familiarity with federal and Florida regulatory compliance standards governing research and laboratory safety
Research Scientist Jobs in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research scientist in Florida?
Becoming a research scientist in Florida typically requires a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant scientific field. Most positions in biomedical or pharmaceutical research require demonstrated laboratory experience alongside your degree. Florida does not impose a state-issued research scientist license for most specialties, though clinical laboratory scientists must hold certification through the Florida Department of Health. Building a publication record and seeking postdoctoral experience at Florida universities or research institutes significantly strengthens your candidacy.
Which companies hire research scientists in Florida?
Employers hiring research scientists in Florida right now include Moffitt Cancer Center, University of Florida, and AJAIA, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Florida's concentration of biotech corridors, aerospace contractors, and academic medical centers means openings appear across a wide range of research disciplines and employer types.
Which Florida cities have the most research scientist jobs?
Tampa, Gainesville, and Miami account for the most research scientist openings in Florida. Miami anchors pharmaceutical and biomedical hiring, Tampa is home to Moffitt Cancer Center and a growing life sciences cluster, and Orlando draws aerospace and defense research demand from contractors tied to Kennedy Space Center and nearby defense operations.
Are there remote research scientist jobs in Florida?
Yes, but they're rare. Most research scientist roles require hands-on laboratory work, making full remote arrangements uncommon compared to purely analytical fields. About 29% of research scientist openings tied to Florida are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions tend to concentrate in data-heavy specializations such as computational biology, bioinformatics, and research program management rather than bench science.
How can I get hired as a research scientist in Florida with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a research associate or junior scientist role at a Florida university research center or teaching hospital, where new-grad hiring is common. Institutions such as the University of Florida, University of Miami, and Florida International University regularly hire research assistants and associates. Transitioning from a laboratory technician or clinical lab scientist role is also a recognized route. Obtaining Florida Department of Health certification as a clinical laboratory scientist gives candidates a concrete credential that differentiates them during the application process.
Where can I find and apply to research scientist jobs in Florida?
You can find and apply to research scientist jobs in Florida on Migrate Mate, which lists current Florida openings across industries including biotechnology, aerospace, and academic research. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 16 Research Scientist Jobs in Florida
Find roles in Florida that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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