Life Science Research Professional 1

Stanford University

Job Number: 85881

The Ma Laboratory in the Stanford University Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, is seeking to hire a full-time Life Science Research Professional 1 as an independent research fellow in our lab. We focus on studying congenital heart disease and are looking for an individual to help lead new projects examining heart valve biomechanics in an ex vivo heart simulator. We are using this heart simulator to model valvular diseases and subsequently optimize surgical repair strategies, which we then intend to translate into both large animal models (e.g., sheep) and clinical settings. We can use this simulator to measure variables such as hemodynamics (via integrated flow probes & pressure sensors), valve leaflet motion & coaptation (via high-speed videography), morphometrics (via echocardiography), and strain sensing on chordae tendineae. Please see the following publication for an example of our prior work with the ex vivo heart simulator: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022522318329659

We currently have a few projects ongoing, but our main focus is on studying single ventricle defects caused by congenital disorders such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome, doublet inlet left ventricle, or unbalanced atrioventricular (AV) septal defect. Single ventricle defects are serious congenital heart abnormalities, typically requiring multiple staged surgical repairs to reroute blood flow into Fontan circulation. Although there are variations of Fontan circulation, it generally involves rerouting the inferior and superior vena cavae directly to the pulmonary arteries, and subsequently utilizing a single ventricle and AV valve to support systemic circulation. While many risk factors associated with Fontan circulation have been overcome, this has not been the case with AV valve function, as many clinical studies have shown increased morbidity and mortality associated with AV valve insufficiency. We are currently studying atrioventricular valve biomechanics in an attempt to better understand the cause of AV valve insufficiency in patients palliated with single ventricle physiology, as well as to better optimize surgical repair strategies.

Ideally, we are looking for a minimum 2-year commitment for this position, but this can be somewhat flexible depending on individual qualifications and circumstance. We are also looking to fill this position as soon as possible, potentially starting as early as January 2020.

If you are interested in this position, or have any questions, please send an email to Brandon Strong at ebstrong@stanford.edu. Please attach your current CV to your email.

Duties include:

• Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
• Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
• Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Disclaimer: A strong candidate does not need to possess ALL of the following qualifications, but should have at least some of these skills:
• A degree in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or bioengineering. However, non-engineering degrees will be considered, if engineering skills have been demonstrated elsewhere (i.e., through prior research).
• Significant prior research experience, preferably in a cardiovascular-related field. However, the ability to think critically and carry out experiments independently is required.
• Experience with MATLAB, CAD programs (i.e., Solidworks, Autodesk fusion), Logger Pro, ImageJ, 3D printing (FDM, SLA, DLP, and/or DLS), and/or computational fluid dynamics are desired. MATLAB/CAD experience is highly desirable.
• If coming from an engineering-oriented background, basic knowledge of anatomy/physiology are strongly recommended. Candidates from non-engineering backgrounds should have demonstrated a strong quantitative background through research or other endeavors.
• Basic surgical hand skills, including suturing, handling basic instruments, and performing dissections.
• Experience with animal surgeries.
• Advanced writing and reading ability, which could be demonstrated via prior publications.
• Knowledge of cardiovascular/cardiopulmonary anatomy & physiology. Some developmental biology knowledge may also be beneficial as our work focuses on congenital heart diseases.
• Ability to lead a project, including reading/synthesizing literature, designing experiments based on the literature, conducting experiments, performing data analysis, and writing up final results, is highly desirable.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time
• Job Code: 4945
• Employee Status: Regular
• Grade: E
• Department URL: http://ctsurgery.stanford.edu/
• Requisition ID: 85881

Job:

Location: School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States
Schedule:
Classification Level:

To be considered for this position please visit our web site and apply on line at the following link: stanfordcareers.stanford.edu

Stanford is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.







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