Research Associate, WF Institute for Regenerative Medicine

JOB SUMMARY

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) seeks an experienced Research Associate/Staff Scientist to lead innovative research in advanced organ-on-chip technology development and provide senior-level technical expertise. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to drive forward transformative research while mentoring a dynamic research team.

Research Focus: The successful candidate will lead the technical development and validation of sophisticated human airway and skin organ-on-chip (OTE) models for evaluating chemical-induced tissue fibrosis. This pioneering program integrates advanced tissue engineering, multi-omics analysis, and machine learning applications to establish new paradigms for preclinical testing and therapeutic development.

Technical Leadership Responsibilities

• Direct complex experimental workflows for OTE model development and validation
• Establish and optimize protocols for chemical exposure studies and tissue response characterization
• Lead multi-parameter analysis integrating functional assays and multi-omics approaches
• Supervise technical staff and coordinate research activities across multiple projects
• Ensure quality control and standardization of laboratory procedures
• Manage collaborations with commercial partners and clinical investigators
• Oversee equipment maintenance and laboratory operations
• Provide technical guidance and problem-solving expertise

Required Technical Expertise

• Advanced tissue engineering and/or organ-on-chip technology
• Complex cell culture systems and 3D tissue model development
• Multi-modal biological assay development and validation
• Data analysis and experimental design
• Project management and team coordination

Leadership Qualifications

• Ph.D. with significant postdoctoral experience or M.S. with extensive research experience
• Demonstrated expertise in tissue engineering or related field
• Strong track record of technical innovation and problem-solving
• Excellence in team leadership and project coordination
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills

This position offers unique opportunities to

• Lead cutting-edge research with direct therapeutic applications
• Direct technical operations in a state-of-the-art facility
• Mentor and develop junior researchers
• Build collaborative relationships with industry partners
• Contribute to advancing alternative testing methods

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment focused on developing next-generation tissue models for chemical safety assessment and therapeutic development. This position provides an excellent opportunity for experienced scientists seeking to advance their careers in a leadership role while contributing to both scientific innovation and public health protection.

Education/Experience: Ph.D. with a focus in the biological, chemical, engineering or physical sciences, or biomedical engineering. Master's degree with at least eight years of relevant research experience.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in cell culture and molecular biology techniques. 
• Experience in chemical reactions and polymer chemistry.
• Experience with development and testing of tissue engineering constructs
• Experience in biofabrication and tissue engineering technologies such as bioprinting, for creation of tissue engineered constructs.  
• Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science background a plus.
• General computer skills, including the use of Excel spreadsheets
• Attention to detail
• Excellent organizational skills
• Time management
• Excellent recordkeeping and documentation skills

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) is a world leader in the development of technologies and products in the fields of tissue engineering and reg