"Full-time Research Associate, Department of Endodontics"

Full-time Research Associate, Department of Endodontics

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Open Date: Jan 21, 2026
Deadline:

The Research Associate will report to Dr. Hyun Koo. The project will investigate, develop, and expand the mouth-on-a-chip system by incorporating more complex models (multi-organ integration and complex microbial communities) while further developing vascularized tooth- and bone-on-a-chip platforms. The successful applicant will have a Ph.D., 3-5 years of postdoctoral training and demonstrated experience in organ-on-a-chip/microphysiological systems, microfluidics and biofabrication methods, 3D vascularized tissue engineering, host-microbe/biofilm models, and multi-omics analysis (e.g., single-cell RNA-seq and metabolomics). The candidate may develop an independent but related project and seek external funding. Research Associate positions at the university are contingent upon grant funding.

As a Research Associate your responsibilities will include: 1) independent design of experiments based on scientific evidence and prior experience, 2) development and execution of research protocols, including data organization, storage, and analysis, 3) laboratory maintenance and organization, 4) writing of original manuscripts and review articles as well as progress reports incorporating both results and understanding of scientific concepts, 5) timely submission of manuscripts for peer review and progress reports, 6) preparation and presentation of results in scientific meetings locally and nationally, and 7) preparation and submission of proposal seeking external, independent funding.

Qualifications

The successful applicant should have extensive expertise in organ-on-a-chip/microphysiological systems and biofabrication and proven hands-on experience in microfluidic system design, fabrication, and operation (PDMS/soft lithography and/or 3D-printed molds), 3D human cell culture and co-culture (epithelial/stromal/endothelial), multi-species microbial communities and biofilm/host-microbe assays. OMICS analysis workflows (including data processing and interpretation) and Strong publication record, scientific writing skills, and ability to contribute to grant writing. Additional skills required, include confocal imaging, immunostaining, and quantitative analysis as well as standard molecular assays (qPCR, ELISA/multiplex cytokines, permeability/TEER or equivalent).

Application Instructions

Applicants are required to apply via the Interfolio posting.

To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/180418