Research Postdoctoral Fellow - ENGINEERING IN VITRO MODELS FOR POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS

A Brief Overview

Assume responsibility for an on-going, innovative research project as a Postdoctoral Fellow at CHOP. Our postdoc experience will broaden your skillset, scientific background, and research capabilities.

CHOP's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
CHOP is committed to building an inclusive culture where employees feel a sense of belonging, connection, and community within their workplace. We are a team dedicated to fostering an environment that allows for all to be their authentic selves. We are focused on attracting, cultivating, and retaining diverse talent who can help us deliver on our mission to be a world leader in the advancement of healthcare for children.

We strongly encourage all candidates of diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.

About the Laboratory

ENGINEERING IN VITRO MODELS FOR POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS

The Bioengineering & Biomaterials Laboratory of Dr. Riccardo Gottardi at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania has an opening for a postdoctoral fellow.

The successful candidate will work on an industry collaboration for the development of advanced in vitro tissue models for studying joint disease and repair. This highly translational project combines tissue engineering, stem cell biology, and biomaterials to better understand disease mechanisms and to provide platforms for therapeutic discovery. The work will also open opportunities to explore applications across cartilage, bone, and osteochondral repair, with strong translational and collaborative components.

A background in tissue engineering, biomaterials, stem cell biology, or immunology is preferred, with prior experience in advanced in vitro models, bioreactor design, 3D printing, and molecular/cellular assays highly desirable.

What we offer:

• A collaborative and open environment that fosters learning and scientific growth
• Regular interactions with world-class scientists and visiting speakers throughout CHOP and UPenn
• Individual mentoring to enhance career development and tailored opportunities to support specific professional goals
• A highly translational focus to address patient-centered medical problems and to push research from bench to bedside
• Postdoctoral training compensation at NIH guidelines with competitive benefits offered by CHOP and with the potential for extension depending on grant renewal
• A laboratory located in a dynamic East coast city with affordable cost of living

What we are looking for:

• Enthusiastic and determined candidates with a passion for research and translation, who perform well in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment
• Confidence in learning new techniques and designing projects independently
• Interest and initiative in applying for postdoctoral fellowships and excitement to take advantage of other career development opportunities
• Motivation in working with and mentoring junior lab members and undergraduate researchers
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and an outstanding publication record
• Candidates who embrace and actively contribute to an environment where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive.

Responsibilities

• Participate in project planning, recording, and evaluation of data.

• Conduct independent scholarly research, developing new methods and protocols under the guidance of a mentor (principal investigator).

• Acquire technical, lab management, and grant writing skills.

• Participate in seminars, lectures, poster sessions, national presentations, and professional workshops.

• Supervise junior lab members.

• Assist with other research projects as needed.

Education

• Required: Doctorate

Start date October 2025 or upon mutual agreement.

Application materials: (i) CV; (ii) Cover letter outlining relevant expertise and scientific interests; (iii) Two first author manuscripts (published or accepted); (iv) Contact information of three references.