• Research Fellow

    University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)


    RESEARCH FELLOW

    How to Apply

    Application Includes:

    + CV

    + Research statement (250-500 words)

    + Statement of professional goals (250-500 words)

    + Contact information of 3 professional references

    Job Summary

    The Killian & Abraham labs are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on an NIH-funded R01 project investigating tendon cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions using advanced microphysiological and tissue engineering approaches. The ideal candidate will have comprehensive knowledge and strong interest in pursuing musculoskeletal biology and/or microphysiological systems, with a willingness and track record of developing proficiencies in new skills. The candidate will engage with and lead research teams, including graduate students and undergraduate learners. The selected candidate may start immediately.

    Responsibilities*

    + 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 team

    Required Qualifications*

    + PhD in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, or related field

    + 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, including first-authored peer-reviewed manuscript(s), talks at 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

     

    Modes of Work

     

    Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about thework modes (https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m/my-employment/ways-we-work-resource-center/ways-we-work-implementation-group/modes-work) .

     

    Background Screening

     

    Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

     

    U-M EEO Statement

     

    The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

     

    Job Detail

     

    Job Opening ID

     

    265714

     

    Working Title

    RESEARCH FELLOW

    Job Title

    RESEARCH FELLOW

    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

     

    Career Interest

     

    Research Fellows