Post-doc position at UCSF and SFVA Medical Center Cardiac Biomechanics Lab

Position Definition:

The Cardiac Biomechanics Laboratory at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center (UCSF) Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery and San Francisco VA Medical Center, is seeking a hard working, motivated post-doctoral fellow to participate in biomedical engineering research involving the development of transcatheter aortic valves which treats aortic stenosis with a percutaneous therapy. Our lab has a submitted patent on a transcatheter aortic valve design and developed a start-up company ReValve Med, Inc. The project involves transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) prototypes, hemodynamic testing via experimental fluid mechanics studies using a pulse duplicator and accelerated wear tester, particle image velocimetry, as well as optimization of design using fluid-structure interaction simulations. Experience in experimental fluid dynamics and computational simulations will be highly regarded. Also, experience in biomechanics and biaxial stretch testing to optimize leaflet material for the designed product would be ideal. Previous experience in prototype development would also be ideal. The individual would enhance their research experience in a multidisciplinary approach, gain exposure to an academic research environment, as well as participate in research for a start-up company. Highly successful candidates may have potential for stock options at the discretion of the CEO. The position is ideal for those who are dedicated to becoming academic professors or transition into engineers in industry. There is potential opportunity to observe cardiac surgery and learn about the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

The Cardiac Biomechanics Laboratory has had a focus on finite element modeling of transcatheter aortic valves, as well as Ross operation, and ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms.  Proof of concept of our new transcatheter heart valve and delivery system is our goal for the next two years. The goals computationally are to perform finite element/fluid structure interaction modeling of transcatheter valves to assess stent and leaflet stresses, and to better understand patient-specific implantation. Experimentally, the goals are to development of prototypes for hemodynamic assessment in the lab’s pulse duplicator and accelerated wear tester as well as perform particle image velocimetry to compare our valve with current commercial valves. Additional biomechanical assessment of aneurysm tissue obtained from the operating root for root material properties will be required.

Other duties include presentations nationally, writing of experimental protocols, data analysis and publication, as well as obtaining grants. Salary and benefits are within the standard range as determined by NIH, institutional guidelines, and applicant experience. Individuals must have prior research experience and preference will be given to those with established experimental fluids experience as well as advanced computational simulations. Those with computer science knowledge involving C++, MatLab, RapidForm, LS-DYNA, ABACUS are preferred. Interested individuals should send via email to elaineetseng+postdoc@gmail.com : 1)cover letter with short and long term professional goals, 2)copy of undergraduate and graduate transcripts (unofficial copy in MS word format is acceptable), 3)three letters of reference with contact information (email acceptable) and 4)detailed resume.

Job Requirements:

• PhD in Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering
• Experience congruent with educational level
• Skills in biaxial stretching, meshing with Rapidform, finite element modeling with LS-DYNA/Abacus preferred but not essential
• Strong oral and written communication and organizational skills.