Visiting Research Assistant Professor-Kozai Lab

University of Pittsburgh•Pittsburgh, PA

About The Position

The Department of Bioengineering is seeking a Visiting Research Assistant Professor in the Kozai Lab. This position focuses on mechanistic and translational studies at the intersection of cerebral ischemia, cellular metabolism, and noninvasive neuromodulation. Primary duties include designing and executing in vivo and ex vivo experiments to investigate mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroimmune activation, and metabolic reprogramming following ischemia-reperfusion injury and in neurodegenerative disease models. The role emphasizes focused ultrasound as a platform for targeted drug delivery, mitochondrial transplantation, and modulation of blood-brain barrier permeability, with downstream assessment of neuronal survival, microglial polarization, and circuit recovery. Responsibilities include molecular, cellular, and metabolic profiling, advanced imaging, and integration of multimodal datasets. The position carries a clear expectation to develop an independent, externally funded research program, including preparation and submission of NIH R01-level grant applications, alongside manuscript authorship and active participation in collaborative research initiatives.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a PhD in Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or a closely related STEM discipline, with demonstrated expertise in cerebral ischemia, mitochondrial biology, and neurodegenerative disease.
Extensive experience with in vivo models of stroke and neurodegeneration.
Molecular analysis of metabolic and inflammatory pathways (e.g., microRNA signaling, microglial activation).
A strong peer-reviewed publication record.
Demonstrated proficiency or strong interest in focused ultrasound, targeted delivery strategies, or neuromodulation technologies is required.
The candidate must demonstrate readiness to lead independent research, mentor trainees, collaborate across engineering and clinical teams, and competitively pursue NIH R01 funding to sustain and expand an independent research program.

Responsibilities

Designing and executing in vivo and ex vivo experiments to investigate mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroimmune activation, and metabolic reprogramming following ischemia-reperfusion injury and in neurodegenerative disease models.
Using focused ultrasound as a platform for targeted drug delivery, mitochondrial transplantation, and modulation of blood-brain barrier permeability.
Assessing neuronal survival, microglial polarization, and circuit recovery.
Molecular, cellular, and metabolic profiling.
Advanced imaging.
Integration of multimodal datasets.
Developing an independent, externally funded research program.
Preparation and submission of NIH R01-level grant applications.
Manuscript authorship.
Active participation in collaborative research initiatives.