The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UCSF is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow in the Orthopaedic Biomechanics and Biotransport Laboratory (PI: Aaron Fields, Ph.D.). The fellow will work on NIH-funded studies that utilize cells, tissues and human subjects to determine how nutrient transport through the cartilage endplate impacts intervertebral disc degeneration. He or she will also take a leading role in translational studies aimed at harnessing nutrient transport for disc repair and regeneration. The research involves close collaborations with clinicians including spine surgeons, physiatrists, and radiologists.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research environment and will benefit from access to extensive clinical and basic science resources at UCSF: advanced microscopy tools, biomechanics equipment, cell & molecular biology facilities, clinical imaging centers, and longitudinal databases. Opportunities for scientific enrichment and musculoskeletal collaboration exist within the NSF/industry-funded Center for Disruptive Musculoskeletal Innovation, the Core Center for Musculoskeletal Biology and Medicine (P30), and the Precision Medicine in Rheumatology Center (P30).

Requirements
  • Ph.D. in bioengineering, mechanical engineering, biomechanics or related field
  • Background in tissue mechanics or cartilage biology/repair
  • Experience conducting experimental research in musculoskeletal biomechanics, including biomechanical testing, imaging/microscopy, and image analysis
  • Strong communication skills in written and verbal English
  • Strong programming skills, e.g. C, C++, Matlab, or IDL
  • Successful publication record
  • Experience with cell culture or finite element analysis is a plus

How to Apply

Applicants should email a CV, along with a brief letter outlining their research background and interests and a list of three references to:

Aaron Fields, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
University of California, San Francisco
Email: aaron.fields@ucsf.edu

Useful links
UCSF seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.