Research Assistant Professor Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Research Assistant Professor positions frequently support H-1B visa, O-1 visa, and EB-2 visa sponsorship due to their specialized nature and advanced degree requirements. Universities often have cap-exempt H-1B status, allowing year-round filing without lottery constraints. Academic institutions also commonly sponsor EB-1B green cards for outstanding researchers with documented achievements in their field.
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We are interested in investigators who work on themes of cardiovascular biology and medicine, particularly hereditary/genetic cardiomyopathies and neuromuscular diseases with cardiac involvement. Qualified candidates will also have extensive research experience (more than 10 years) in molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models for human diseases. Preference is given to those with extensive experience using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and immunoassays. They are also expected to have experience in seeking extramural grant funding from federal and private sources. Successful candidates will be offered salary support commensurate with experience. The home department will be Internal Medicine within the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the USF Health Heart Institute. The USF Health Heart Institute and its members collaborate widely with faculty from other USF colleges including Engineering, Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, and the Moffitt Comprehensive Cancer Center. The USF Health Heart Institute is located in a new state-of-the-art facility housing multiple floors of clinical and laboratory space, state-of-the-art equipment, and outstanding core facilities including a vivarium fully outfitted for small animal husbandry and zebrafish.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Research - Independent design and oversight of research projects (with guidance from PI). Conduct basic and translational research related to cardiovascular disease with PI supervision. Preparation of data, figures, and protocols for use in manuscripts and grants. Working with PI on manuscript and grant preparation and submission. Encouraged to seek independent funding opportunities.
- Teaching - Instruction of lab personnel in bench techniques and rodent procedures.
- Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university.
- Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.
- Responsible for academic advising and related activities.
- May represent the university, college/school, or department.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Doctoral degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria to the rank of Assistant Professor.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Self-motivated individual with PhD degree or equivalent required. Extensive research experience (over 10 years) in molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models for human diseases. Preference is given to those with extensive experience using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and immunoassays.
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.
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.
INTRODUCTION
We are interested in investigators who work on themes of cardiovascular biology and medicine, particularly hereditary/genetic cardiomyopathies and neuromuscular diseases with cardiac involvement. Qualified candidates will also have extensive research experience (more than 10 years) in molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models for human diseases. Preference is given to those with extensive experience using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and immunoassays. They are also expected to have experience in seeking extramural grant funding from federal and private sources. Successful candidates will be offered salary support commensurate with experience. The home department will be Internal Medicine within the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences at the USF Health Heart Institute. The USF Health Heart Institute and its members collaborate widely with faculty from other USF colleges including Engineering, Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, and the Moffitt Comprehensive Cancer Center. The USF Health Heart Institute is located in a new state-of-the-art facility housing multiple floors of clinical and laboratory space, state-of-the-art equipment, and outstanding core facilities including a vivarium fully outfitted for small animal husbandry and zebrafish.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Research - Independent design and oversight of research projects (with guidance from PI). Conduct basic and translational research related to cardiovascular disease with PI supervision. Preparation of data, figures, and protocols for use in manuscripts and grants. Working with PI on manuscript and grant preparation and submission. Encouraged to seek independent funding opportunities.
- Teaching - Instruction of lab personnel in bench techniques and rodent procedures.
- Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university.
- Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.
- Responsible for academic advising and related activities.
- May represent the university, college/school, or department.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Doctoral degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria to the rank of Assistant Professor.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Self-motivated individual with PhD degree or equivalent required. Extensive research experience (over 10 years) in molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models for human diseases. Preference is given to those with extensive experience using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and immunoassays.
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.
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 906+ Research Assistant Professor Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Research Assistant Professor
Target cap-exempt institutions
Universities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research facilities can file H-1B petitions year-round without lottery participation, significantly improving your sponsorship odds.
Emphasize your research contributions
Document publications, citations, conference presentations, and grant funding in your application materials. Immigration officers evaluate research impact when assessing specialty occupation requirements.
Consider the EB-1B pathway early
Outstanding researchers with international recognition, significant publications, and demonstrated impact may qualify for EB-1B green cards, which have shorter processing times than EB-2.
Prepare for degree evaluation requirements
Foreign degrees often need formal credential evaluation services. Plan 4-6 weeks for this process, as USCIS requires documentation proving degree equivalency to U.S. standards.
Leverage postdoc experience strategically
Previous postdoctoral positions demonstrate specialized training and research capability. Frame this experience as building toward the assistant professor role when discussing career progression with employers.
Understand academic timeline constraints
Academic hiring cycles typically run August through March. Coordinate visa timing with appointment start dates, especially for positions beginning in fall semesters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Research Assistant Professor positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, Research Assistant Professor roles typically qualify as specialty occupations requiring advanced degrees in specific fields. Universities and research institutions are often cap-exempt, meaning they can file H-1B visa petitions year-round without entering the lottery system that limits other employers.
What degree requirements apply for visa sponsorship in this role?
Most positions require a PhD in the relevant research field, though some accept master's degrees with extensive research experience. USCIS requires the degree to be directly related to the research area. Foreign degrees need credential evaluation to establish U.S. equivalency.
How do approval rates differ for academic H-1B petitions?
Academic institutions historically see higher H-1B approval rates than private companies, often exceeding 90%. The cap-exempt status, established research mission, and clear specialty occupation nature of academic roles contribute to this success rate.
How to find Research Assistant Professor jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Research Assistant Professor positions with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international academics with sponsoring institutions. Focus your search on universities, research hospitals, and government laboratories that commonly sponsor H-1B, O-1, or J-1 visas for academic researchers. These employers typically have experience with the visa process and dedicated international hiring departments to support foreign faculty candidates.
Can Research Assistant Professors apply for employment-based green cards?
Yes, through multiple pathways. EB-1B targets outstanding researchers with international recognition and significant publications. EB-2 with National Interest Waiver suits researchers whose work benefits U.S. national interests. Standard EB-2 requires PERM labor certification, which universities commonly support.
What happens if my appointment is temporary or renewable?
H-1B petitions can be approved for temporary positions if they meet specialty occupation requirements. Universities often sponsor multi-year appointments or renewals. However, temporary positions may complicate green card applications, as some categories require permanent position offers.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Research Assistant Professor jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.