The posting
Job Description
PhD Research Opportunity: Medical Engineering, University of South Florida
Dr. Alya Limayem's laboratory at USF is seeking a motivated, creative, and intellectually curious PhD student interested in developing innovative solutions to challenges in human health and environmental biotechnology.
Our research study includes:
- Microbiome Engineering: Microbial characterization, molecular diagnostics, and automated detection.
- Biopolymers & nanocomponents: Design of functional biopolymers, bioactive materials, and hydrogel bead filters.
- Novel Antimicrobial Technologies: Innovative biofilm disruption and removal approaches, including ultrasound, metal oxides; electroporation, and emerging technologies.
- Environmental Biotechnology: Advanced technologies for nutrient removal and harmful algal bloom prevention including biodegradable membrane filtration.
Who We Are Looking For:
Candidates should have foundational knowledge or research experience in at least two of the research areas listed above, including basic knowledge of microbiology or molecular biology and chemistry relevant to biomaterials development.
Beyond technical skills, we value scientific curiosity, creativity, perseverance, independence, and a genuine enthusiasm for exploring new ideas and technologies.
Why Join Our Lab?
You will have the opportunity to develop innovative research ideas, learn advanced techniques, contribute to scientific publications, and grow as an independent researcher in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a brief statement of research interests for an initial interview.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Must be fully admitted to a graduate degree program; classified as a degree seeking graduate student, and meet the requirements of the graduate school. For some positions assigned to this class, special qualifications may be added to the minimum such as completion of a specified number of graduate credit hours or a master's degree.
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD student
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.
About Us
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.



