Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration. Complex problem solving. In Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university.

Carnegie Mellon University’s department of Mechanical Engineering is searching for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join their team.  This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment.  This position will focus on fabrication of embodied multi-actuator biohybrid robots using 3D neuromuscular co-culture. You will be responsible for creating and validating custom fabrication platforms for symbiotic co-cultures of neurons, muscles and other cell lineages as needed. You will be involved in all aspects of neuromuscular cell culture and tissue engineering required to fabricate and test biohybrid robots. 

In addition, you will assist in lab management activities including mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students, tracking orders and spending, coordinating lab maintenance and cleaning, grant preparation, manuscript writing and revision and such other tasks that are assigned to you.

Core Responsibilities:

• Conduct bioprinting and cell culture
• Conduct immunofluorescent and functional assessment of tissues.
• Create and/or run necessary software for data analysis.
• Isolate primary cells from embryonic chicken sources
• Manage a small team of student researchers.
• Design experiments
• Contribute to management of cell culture inventory and equipment.
• Publish and present in relevant scientific venues.
• Fabricate biohybrid robots.
• Create and validate custom manufacturing platforms.

Inclusion and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of diverse audiences. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• A doctorate in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Robotics, or associated fields on topics related to compliant mechanism robots.
• Experience in bioprinting, biomaterials, neural organoid culture, or skeletal muscle tissue engineering is required.
• Coursework in biomaterials and tissue engineering is required.
• Experience with biological wet lab work is required.
• Experience programming in Python is desired.
• Experience with Finite Element Analysis is desired.
• Experience with digital fabrication is desired.
• Experience with 4D printing is desired.
• Experience with 3D printing of cell laden inks is required.
• Experience with primary cell isolation is desired.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence is required.
• Familiarity with characterization tools such as SEM and confocal microscopy is required.
• Experience with microfluidics is desired.
• Experience with building custom biomanufacturing platforms is desired.
• A strong publication record in relevant journals, excellent verbal and written English communication skills, and an ability to work effectively with others is required.
• The ability to work well in a self-paced, independent manner, while working well in cooperation with team members and partners is required.
• A commitment to meet research project deadlines is required.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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