Research Fellow: The Killian & Abraham labs are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join an NIH-funded R01 project focused on investigating tendon cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions using advanced microphysiological and tissue engineering approaches.
Designation
Research Fellow
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Opening ID | 265714 |
| Work Location | Ann Arbor Campus, Ann Arbor, MI |
| Modes of Work | Onsite |
| Full/Part Time | Full-Time |
| Regular/Temporary | Regular |
| FLSA Status | Exempt |
| Organizational Group | Medical School |
| Department | MM Orthopaedic Surgery |
| Posting Begin/End Date | 7/02/2025 – 1/01/2026 |
Research Area
Tendon Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions
Eligibility/Qualification
- Required Qualifications:
- PhD in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, or related fields.
- Proficiency in cell culture, including primary human cell isolation and culture.
- Experience with microphysiological systems design and fabrication.
- Advanced microscopy skills (fluorescence, confocal, live-cell imaging).
- Molecular biology techniques, including:
- Gene expression analysis (qRT-PCR)
- Protein analysis (Western blot, immunofluorescence)
- Cell transfection
- Mechanical testing and biomaterials characterization.
- Quantitative image analysis.
- Computational skills including data processing and statistical analysis.
- Prior experience and demonstrated competencies in scientific communication (first-authored peer-reviewed manuscript(s), conference presentations, and/or grant writing experience).
- Desired Qualifications:
- Background in tendon/musculoskeletal biology.
- Experience with light-induced matrix polymerization.
- Familiarity with inflammatory signaling pathways.
- Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
Job Description
The selected candidate will:
- Design and develop microphysiological systems (MPS) for tendon research.
- Perform cell culture and molecular biology experiments.
- Conduct mechanical testing and characterization of engineered tendon models.
- Quantify and analyze inflammatory signaling in tendon fibroblasts.
- Investigate ECM stiffness effects on cellular behavior and gene expression.
- Develop fluorescent reporter systems for cellular signaling.
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication.
- Present research findings at national conferences.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams, including graduate students and undergraduate learners.
How to Apply
- Submit your application including:
- CV
- Research statement (250-500 words)
- Statement of professional goals (250-500 words)
- Contact information of 3 professional references
Last Date to Apply
Applications are accepted until the position is filled, with the review and selection process beginning as early as seven days post posting. The posting may be removed at any time after the expiration of this period.
Note: Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer.
