Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

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.  In this role, you will conduct and coordinate biological and biomedical engineering research and support biological aspects of biomedical device development, including cell culture and characterization, biomaterials, tissue engineering, biochemical and molecular assays, microscopy, and functional validation.  The role spans experimental planning, biological system preparation, protocol development, quantitative analysis, and integration of biological components with engineered devices.

Your core responsibilities will include:

- You will work with collaborators and device teams to assess biological function, reproducibility, and long-term performance, maintain rigorous laboratory records, and mentor trainees as appropriate.

- Lead assigned research activities, plan reproducible experiments, and communicate progress and technical risks against project milestones.

- Analyze quantitative data with appropriate controls and statistical methods; maintain traceable laboratory records, protocols, and analysis workflows.

- Collaborate across biological, device, sensing, and electronics teams to resolve interfaces and interpret integrated system performance.

- Prepare technical reports, presentations, manuscripts, and other research materials; contribute to project meetings and scientific dissemination.

- Mentor students and junior researchers as appropriate, coordinate shared experimental activities, and follow applicable laboratory safety and research protocols.

- Plan, conduct, and coordinate biological experiments across the research program, working with the supervisor and collaborating teams.

- Culture, maintain, bank, and characterize mammalian and engineered cells; document provenance, culture conditions, and quality-control results.

- Develop and perform biochemical and molecular assays, microscopy, and quantitative analyses of cell viability, growth, phenotype, and function.

- Prepare and evaluate biomaterial-supported and tissue-engineered biological systems; study the effects of materials, culture conditions, and device environments.

- Assess biological stability, functional response, and longitudinal performance using appropriate controls and reproducible experimental procedures.

- Integrate biological components with device subsystems in collaboration with engineering teams; investigate compatibility and sources of performance variation.

- Develop laboratory protocols, maintain biosafety and traceable records, and analyze and interpret biological datasets for research decisions.

- Prepare reports, presentations, and manuscripts; coordinate biological work with collaborators and mentor students and junior researchers as appropriate.

- Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

- Ph.D. in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Tissue Engineering, or a closely related field.

- 1-3 years of experience.

- Demonstrated experience with mammalian-cell culture and sterile technique, quantitative biological assays, microscopy or fluorescence measurements, and experimental design and data analysis.

- Ability to troubleshoot biological experiments, develop reproducible protocols, maintain accurate records, and communicate across biological and engineering disciplines is required.

- Experience with engineered cells, biomaterials or hydrogel culture, tissue engineering, molecular characterization, longitudinal functional testing, or integration of biological systems with biomedical devices preferred.

Requirements:

- Prior biosafety, chemical hygiene, and BSL-2 laboratory training preferred.

- Complete applicable institutional safety training before assigned laboratory work.  Any human- or animal-subject activities require the relevant approvals and training before participation.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits, available to all full-time Carnegie Mellon University employees. Experience the full spectrum of advantages, from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to enticing retirement savings programs. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, and take well-deserved breaks with generous paid time off and holidays. Rest easy knowing you're covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. For a comprehensive overview of the benefits awaiting you, explore: https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/benefits-at-a-glance .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role & responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique key skills and the diverse perspectives you bring. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive
work environment means we also account for geographic differentials. 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.

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

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

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

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the 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!

Location
Pittsburgh, PA Job Function
Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows Position Type
Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term) Full Time/Part time
Full time Pay Basis
Salary More Information:

- Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

- Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

- Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .

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