Research Associate – Cardiac Biointerface Engineering

The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago (https://www.czbiohub.org/chi) is an independent nonprofit research institute that brings together three powerhouse universities - Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - into a single collaborative technology and discovery engine. CZ Biohub itself supports some of the brightest, boldest engineers, data scientists, and biomedical researchers to make breakthroughs in medicine and develop new technologies, frequently in collaboration with our partner universities. We are guided by our values of scholarly excellence; disruptive innovation; hands-on engineering/hacking/building; partnership and collaboration; open communication and respect; inclusiveness; and opportunity for all.

Our Vision

• We pursue large scientific challenges that cannot be pursued in conventional environments
• We enable individual investigators to pursue their riskiest and most innovative ideas
• The technologies developed at CZ Biohub Chicago facilitate research by scientists and clinicians at our home institutions and beyond

Diversity of thought, ideas, and perspectives are at the heart of CZ Biohub Network and enable disruptive innovation and scholarly excellence. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive organization where all colleagues feel inspired and know their work makes an important contribution.

The Opportunity

We are in search of a dedicated and experienced Research Associate with biomaterial engineering and bioprinting experience to strengthen our collaborative Cardiac Biointerface Engineering team. The ideal candidate will possess a solid background and proficiency in biomanufacturing and cell culture practices and will also bring enthusiasm to learning and developing new technologies. This position plays a vital role in expanding our cardiac disease model systems and analytic capabilities.

You will

• Develop and prepare biomaterials and bioinks for 2D and 3D engineered tissue culture
• Perform 3D bioprinting, 3D tissue engineering, and biomaterials/tissue analysis
• Support routine cell and engineered tissue culture
• Document and manage data associated with sample preparation and analysis
• Independently plan, prioritize and execute work
• Assist in the development of standard operating procedures for new instruments and products
• Collaborate with scientists in experimental design and analysis
• Adhere to laboratory safety standards, guidelines, and protocols

You have

Essential –

• BS or MS degree in bioengineering, material science, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline
• Minimum of 5 years of laboratory work experience
• Hands-on experience in hydrogel/biomaterials/bioink engineering, CAD design, 3D printing, and mechanical testing
• Familiarity with cell culture and analysis
• Flexibility and willingness to learn new technologies
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

Nice to have -

• Background in biomanufacturing (soft-lithography, fiber spinning, bioprinting) and bioelectronics field
• Proficiency in CAD modeling and G-code
• Familiarity with induced pluripotent cells, primary cells, cardiovascular cells

The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Network requires all employees, regardless of work location or type of role, to provide proof of their initial COVID-19 vaccination by their start date. Those who are unable to get vaccinated because of a disability, or who choose not to be vaccinated due to a sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance must have an approved exception prior to their start date.

What We Provide

• Resources to disrupt and innovate at the frontiers of our knowledge of biology and disease
• A collegial and collaborative environment consisting of diverse expertise
• Access to collaborators, resources and facilities at our three partner universities (Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) and at partner organizations in Chicagoland and beyond
• Competitive compensation and benefits commensurate with the experience

Benefits

We offer a robust benefits program that enables the important work Biohubbers do everyday. Our benefits include healthcare coverage, life and disability insurance, commuter subsidies, family planning services with fertility care, childcare stipend, 401(k) match, flexible time off and a generous parental leave policy. In addition, we honor our commitment to career development and our value of scholarly excellence through regular onsite opportunities to learn from the world's leading scientists.

The CZ Biohub Network is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity of thought, ideas and perspectives. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive organization where all Biohubbers feel inspired and know their work makes an important contribution. Therefore, we provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit resumes/CVs through this website or directly to managers. The CZ Biohub Network does not accept unsolicited headhunter and agency resumes. The CZ Biohub Network will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with the CZ Biohub Network.