The mission of the Cardiac Research Laboratory (PI Dr. Julie Phillippi) is to leverage cell-matrix mechanisms in normal physiology for the development of new and less invasive treatments for cardiovascular pathologies. To achieve this mission, our laboratory partners with cardiothoracic surgeons to leverage an abundance of clinical and surgical expertise to shape and execute clinically-relevant inquiries through basic science experimental designs. Our team of vascular cell and matrix biologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, research coordinators, physician assistants, and nurses strives to provide a dynamic interdisciplinary training environment at an important clinical, basic science, and bioengineering intersection. These facets will enable impactful basic science discoveries that translate toward innovative clinical decision making in the management of patients affected by cardiovascular disease. The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery is focused on delivering integrated care defined by outstanding clinical outcomes, cutting edge technology, world class research and scholarship, and educating surgical leaders of the future. More information can be found at https://www.ctsurgery.pitt.edu/ and https://www.ctsurgery.pitt.edu/research/phillippi-lab

Master's degree and/or at least 2-3 years of experience working in a similar academic laboratory setting is preferred.

Performs a variety of independent laboratory work and experiments such as determining experimental protocols and preparation of specimens and cultures. Prepares reports of findings subsequent to compilation and analyzation. Oversees specimen inventory. Develops documentation for publication; crafts manuscripts and grant proposals.

Performs a variety of independent laboratory work and experiments such as determining experimental protocols and preparation of specimens and cultures. Prepares reports of findings subsequent to compilation and analyzation. Oversees specimen inventory. Develops documentation for publication; crafts manuscripts and grant proposals.

The individual will have shared responsibilities in maintaining the human blood vessel tissue and cell bank of the Cardiac Research Laboratory. The individual will also provide technical support to other researchers in the laboratory, assist with ongoing experiments related to NIH-funded projects, and may oversee undergraduate or high-school level researchers.

The individual will be responsible for aspects of general lab maintenance such as ordering supplies, chemical inventory, lab safety, and equipment maintenance. This individual will also be expected to participate in and contribute to lab meetings, abstracts, manuscripts, and proposal preparation.

Prior experience in working with tissue explants, mammalian cell culture, particularly 3D culture systems, dynamic culturing/bioreactor systems, mechanical conditioning of cells, RNA and protein isolation from tissue and cultured cells, real-time PCR, Western blotting, microplate assays, molecular biology, histology, immunocytochemistry, and microscopy (i.e., phase contrast, epi-fluorescence) is highly advantageous.