Life Science Professional 1

Company: Stanford Medicine
Location: Mountain View
Posted on: November 16, 2021

Job Description:

The Ma Laboratory in the Stanford University School of Medicine 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 currently are focusing on two main projects:

• Ex vivo modeling of the atrioventricular valve in single ventricle physiology
• Congenital Heart Disease Simulator
  
  Ex vivo Modeling of the AV valve in SVP
  
  We are using an ex vivo heart simulator to model AV valve function in single ventricle physiology and optimize surgical repair strategies. We then intend to translate into both large animal models (i.e., pigs) 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
  
  Congenital Heart Disease Simulator
  
  We are currently developing an MRI compatible mock circulatory loop and cardiac phantoms to simulate common congenital heart lesions. We will use integrated pressure and flow sensors to capture hemodynamic data and magnetic resonance velocimetry measurements to capture microscopic flow patterns (locations of stagnation & reverse flow and the shape of the jets). We will answer questions regarding cannulation strategies for patients with complex anatomies, ventricular assist device (VAD) approaches for a failing Fontan physiology and patient-VAD mismatches.
  
  We believe this is an excellent gap year opportunity for individuals who plan to apply to medical school or graduate programs. If you are interested in this position, or have any questions, please send an email to James Lee at james133@stanford.edu. Please attach your current CV.
  
  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:
  • Significant prior research experience, preferably in a cardiovascular-related field. However, the ability to think critically and carry out experiments independently is required.
  • Background in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, or bioengineering.
  • Experience with MATLAB, CAD programs (Solidworks), 3D printing (FDM, SLA, DLP, and/or DLS), and/or other rapid prototyping techniques.
  • Experience with control systems and signal processing. Specific experience with sensors and actuators is particularly desirable. Experience with LabView or similar software is strongly preferred.
  • If coming from an engineering-oriented background, basic knowledge of anatomy/physiology are recommended.
  • Basic surgical hand skills, including suturing, handling basic instruments, and performing dissections.
  • 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.
      
      CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:
      
      None
      
      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 working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
        • 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 based 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
            • Pay Grade: E
            • Department URL: http://ctsurgery.stanford.edu/
            • Requisition ID: 89522 As an organization that receives federal funding, Stanford University has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors. To learn more about COVID policies and guidelines for Stanford University Staff, please visit https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/working-stanford/covid-19/interim-policies/covid-19-surveillance-testing-policy

Keywords: Stanford Medicine, Mountain View , Life Science Professional 1, Other , Mountain View, California