A postdoctoral position is currently available at the Soft
Tissue Biomechanics Laboratory (STBL) in the Department of Bioengineering under
the direction of Professor Jonathan Vande Geest. The STBL is currently
developing a novel platform to study the mechanobiology of the optic nerve head
in primary open angle glaucoma that seamlessly integrates state of the art
techniques in regenerative medicine, 3D bioprinting, and intravital imaging.
The long term goal of the STBL is to utilize this novel platform to improve the
mechanistic understanding of how optic nerve head extracellular matrix
remodeling is linked to retinal ganglion cell death and vision loss and if this
understanding can be leveraged to discover the next generation of novel therapeutic
targets for glaucoma.
Applicants should hold a PhD in Bioengineering or Cell Biology
or related field. A strong background in biology is preferred, including
experience with cell and molecular biology quantitative assay development and
optimization. Candidates will also be considered who have a strong computational/mathematical
background with experience in mechanistic modeling of extracellular matrix
remodeling. This will remain open until filled.
The Postdoctoral Fellow will work in a collaborative
environment and interact with an interdisciplinary group of scientists and
clinicians. In particular, the candidate will work closely with clinician
scientists in the Department of Ophthalmology as well as STBL collaborators in
the McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Louis J. Fox Center for
Vision Restoration. The city of Pittsburgh is one of the “most livable” cities
in the US and is a leader in medicine, engineering and high-tech industries.
Please visit our website (www.stblvandegeest.com) to further
explore ongoing research in the STBL. Interested applicants should submit a CV,
statement of research interest and purpose, Unofficial copy of full UG and Grad
transcripts, and the contact information for three references to: Jonathan P.
Vande Geest, Professor jpv20@pitt.edu using
the subject line “STBL Postdoctoral Position Application”
The Department of Bioengineering is strongly committed to a
diverse academic environment and places high priority on attracting female and
underrepresented minority candidates. We strongly encourage candidates from
these groups to apply for the position.
The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal
Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and
diversity. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled.