Postdoctoral Fellow – 3D Bioprinting of Functional Kidney Tissues

The mission of the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University is to transform human healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. Developed as an alliance between Harvard and other premier academic and clinical partner institutions, Institute faculty and staff collaborate in high-risk, fundamental research and science-driven technology development. A major focus of the Institute is to translate the technologies developed by its faculty and staff into commercial products and therapies through collaborations with clinical investigators and establishment of corporate alliances. For more information, discover our technologies , catch up on our recent news , or watch our latest videos .

The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University seeks a talented Postdoctoral Fellow who is an engineer interested in biology research, or a biologist looking for engineering applications to join our Kidney team. Led by Jennifer Lewis  and with technical guidance from the multidisciplinary bioprinting research team, you will work to complete independent and team research projects involving 3D bioprinting using stem-cell derived human kidney organoids. The work will focus on building from organ-on-chip  platforms to more functional organ-level tissues. Projects in our lab typically span multiple disciplines, so we welcome applicants from many backgrounds. Successful applicants typically have some level of hands-on experience designing and fabricating devices or have strong background in relevant biological assays.

• Complete independent and team research projects involving 3D bioprinting using stem-cell derived human kidney organoids
• Focus on building from organ-on-chip platforms to more functional organ-level tissues
• Participate in writing research proposals, reports, patent applications, presentations, and publications, providing critical data, figures or information for grant and patent submissions

• Ph.D. in biology, microbiology, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, materials science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related discipline.
• Must demonstrate broad theoretical and practical knowledge within the fields of mechanical engineering, tissue engineering, or cell biology.
• Strong scientific track record demonstrating well-organized design and execution of studies.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong work ethic, communication skills and team-player oriented personality.

We are looking for a candidate with strong expertise in a few of the following areas, and a willingness to learn new skills outside of your current discipline to accomplish project goals. It would be terrific if you have experience in all of them, but this is not necessary, we can teach you what you don’t know.

• Strong understanding of cell biology, physiology, and/or tissue engineering.
• Cell culture experience.
• Experience with in vitro analytical techniques to assess the cell viability of tissue constructs.
• Experience with microfluidics.
• Experience working with induced pluripotent stem cells.
• 3D printing experience.
• Experience with flow cytometry, ELISAs, PCR, or confocal microscopy.
• Experience with vascularizing tissue.
• Experience with animal implantation experiments.

• Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical, dental, & vision plans. All coverage begins as of your start date.
• Time Off: 20 days of vacation per year plus Harvard Holidays
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, classes at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
• Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
• Wellness Options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, nutrition, meditation, and complimentary health services.

Please assemble your application as a single PDF file, this should contain a complete resume, cover letter describing research interests and goals, full list of publications, copies of up to three relevant scientific papers, as well as the names and contact information of three references (expected to provide letters of recommendation). Applications should be sent to Jennifer Lewis [email protected]  and Scott Slimmer at [email protected]  using the subject line “Lewis Lab Postdoctoral Fellow Application.”

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Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law. Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others.