Post Doctoral.Post Doctoral.Associate
Med-Medicine - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26001855)
Postdoctoral Associate #2 – Benam Lab – Human Microvascular Models and Extracellular Matrix Biology
The Benam Lab (https://www.benamlab.net/) at the University of Pittsburgh Departments of Medicine and Bioengineering is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join an interdisciplinary research program focused on developing and applying advanced human-relevant in vitro models to study vascular biology, extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics, and multicellular tissue interactions. The successful Candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of microphysiological systems (Organs-on-Chips), vascular biology, and translational biomedical engineering.
This position emphasizes the use of microphysiological systems to model human microvascular structure and function within physiologically relevant three-dimensional microenvironments, with a particular focus on endothelial–stromal interactions, matrix remodeling, and tissue-level responses under dynamic conditions.
Responsibilities
The Postdoctoral Associate will play a key intellectual and technical role in the research program. Responsibilities include:
- Design and execute experimental studies using advanced in vitro microvascular and tissue-engineered systems, including endothelial and stromal cell components
- Establish and maintain multicellular cultures within three-dimensional microenvironments to investigate vascular function and ECM remodeling
- Perform and optimize assays to evaluate vascular integrity, permeability, inflammatory signaling, and matrix-related processes
- Contribute to development and refinement of experimental workflows, including matrix composition, cell seeding strategies, and system reproducibility
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate microvascular data with complementary model systems and analytical platforms
- Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of experimental procedures and results
- Analyze and interpret data, and contribute to preparation of manuscripts, reports, and grant applications
- Mentor trainees and assist in training of laboratory personnel as needed
Qualifications
Required:
- Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Vascular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field
- Experience with primary human endothelial and stromal cell culture and/or multicellular in vitro systems
- Background in extracellular matrix biology, tissue remodeling, or microenvironmental regulation
- Strong experimental design, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Preferred:
- Experience with three-dimensional culture systems or Organs-on-Chips
- Familiarity with assays for vascular permeability, matrix remodeling, or mechanobiology
- Experience with imaging-based, biophysical, or quantitative molecular analyses
- Experience working in interdisciplinary teams integrating biology and engineering
Interested applicants, please apply through https://www.join.pitt.edu Requisition #26001855
The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.
Assignment Category: Full-time regular
Campus: Pittsburgh
Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
Required Attachments: Curriculum Vitae
Optional Attachments: Cover Letter
Assignment Category Full-time regular
PI284432759