What is a Research Scientist at University of Central Florida?
A Research Scientist at the University of Central Florida plays a critical role in driving the institution's mission as a high-impact, metropolitan research university. Operating within UCF’s advanced research centers—such as the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) in Cocoa, CREOL (the College of Optics and Photonics), or the Nanoscience Technology Center—you will lead specialized projects that push the boundaries of scientific discovery. Your work directly influences academic publications, secures vital federal and private grant funding, and fosters innovation that transitions from the lab to industry applications.
In this role, you are not just an individual contributor; you are a strategic leader within the laboratory. You will collaborate closely with Principal Investigators (PIs), manage postdocs and graduate students, and maintain the operational excellence of sophisticated lab environments. Your expertise helps University of Central Florida maintain its competitive edge as a top-tier R1 doctoral research university, solving complex global challenges in fields ranging from renewable energy and materials science to simulation and space systems.
Candidates should expect a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment where research is highly interdisciplinary. Success as a Research Scientist requires a balance of deep technical mastery, an entrepreneurial mindset for securing research funding, and the leadership capacity to guide junior researchers toward project deadlines.


