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Microphysiological Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Microphysiological information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microphysiological systems scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microphysiological Systems Scientist, you need a strong background in cell biology, tissue engineering, and biomaterials, typically supported by an advanced degree in biological sciences or bioengineering. Familiarity with microfluidic device fabrication, imaging systems, and analytical software like MATLAB or ImageJ is often required. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills are crucial in this interdisciplinary field. These skills enable the design and analysis of complex biological models that advance drug discovery and biomedical research.

What is a microphysiological system?

Microphysiological systems, also known as organ-on-a-chip technologies, are advanced laboratory models that replicate the functions of human organs on a miniature scale. These systems use living cells arranged on micro-engineered platforms to mimic the structure and function of tissues and organs. They are used in biomedical research to study disease mechanisms, drug responses, and toxicity in a controlled environment, potentially reducing the need for animal testing. Microphysiological systems provide more accurate and human-relevant data compared to traditional cell cultures or animal models.

What is the difference between Microphysiological vs Cell Culture Technician?

AspectMicrophysiologicalCell Culture Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, biomedical engineering, or related fieldsOften requires a degree or certification in biology or laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical testing facilitiesLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companies
Industry UsageUsed in drug testing, disease modeling, tissue engineeringUsed in cell growth, maintenance, and preparation for experiments

Microphysiological roles focus on creating complex tissue models that mimic human organs, often requiring advanced technical skills. Cell Culture Technicians primarily handle cell growth and maintenance. While both roles involve laboratory work and biological expertise, Microphysiological positions typically demand more specialized knowledge in tissue engineering and organ-on-chip systems.

What are common challenges faced by microphysiological system researchers, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Microphysiological system researchers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex biological and engineering concepts, troubleshooting device malfunctions, and ensuring reproducibility of experimental results. New team members can prepare by staying updated on the latest advances in organ-on-chip technologies, refining their problem-solving skills, and actively communicating with multidisciplinary colleagues. Participating in regular team meetings and collaborating closely with engineers, biologists, and data analysts will help address issues as they arise and foster a supportive research environment.
Infographic showing various Microphysiological job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Postdoctoral Fellow - Hyun Jung Kim Lab

Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$63K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


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Job description

Highly motivated individuals with a PhD or MD/PhD in relevant area are encouraged to apply. This training position, under the direct supervision of a Cleveland Clinic Principal Investigator will provide practical training and experience in a research setting. This position is appointed through Cleveland Clinic Research. The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate a commitment to research, a collaborative work ethic and strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This program is expected to be completed within 5 years. Compensation follows the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale based on total years of postdoctoral experience.

NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale

Years of Experience: Stipend for FY 2026

0: $63,480
1: $63,900
2: $64,380
3: $66,948
4: $69,180
5: $71,748
6: $74,424
7 or More: $77,076

Biomimetic Microengineering (BioME) Lab (PI: Hyun Jung Kim, PhD) at the Cleveland Clinic has developed a human Organ-on-a-Chip that recapitulates the host-microbiome ecosystem to model various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. By integrating patient-derived cells and microbes, we create a personalized Disease-on-a-Chip to uncover disease mechanisms and identify novel therapeutic strategies. We are seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Researchers to join our interdisciplinary team to work on the following projects advancing innovation in translational science, engineering, and medicine.

Principal Investigator: Hyun Jung Kim, PhD

Cleveland Clinic Research Department: Inflammation and Immunity

POSITION 1: Advanced Engineering for Multiscale Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms
We are hiring dedicated candidates to advance our multiscale Organ-on-a-Chip platform, enabling scalable operations through multiple experimentation, configurable modules, and a cost-effective, reproducible design that supports strong reproducibility and replicability. The ideal candidate will have expertise in i) mechanical engineering and robotics, including precision mechatronics design for multi-scale laboratory experimentations with embedded automation, ii) 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and precision manufacturing processes for multiscale hardware development, and iii) microfluidics, microfabrication, or microengineering to integrate an engineered system with microscale biological models and implement automated system control.


POSITION 2: Microbiome-Associated Anti-Cancer Therapeutics in Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms
We seek postdoctoral researchers to investigate how gut microbes modulate immune checkpoints on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Using patient-derived CRC organoid models, we have demonstrated that live gut bacteria reduce the expression of surface immune checkpoints through an enzymatic mechanism. Successful candidates will identify the responsible microbial enzymes and elucidate their mechanism of action. Strong candidates will have expertise in one or more of the following: microbial biochemistry and enzymology; glycobiology and carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes); proteomics-based target identification; protein engineering; or microbial synthetic biology. Experiences in engineering designer probiotics or liver biotherapeutics for targeted payload delivery or tumor-localized sensing are highly desirable. Candidates trained in host-microbiome biochemical interactions, glycoprotein processing, microbial physiology, or AI-assisted synthetic biology are especially encouraged to apply.
Skills Required: Candidates must have rigorous scientific training in research design and analysis. A strong track record of previous research achievements is highly valued. Ideal candidates should demonstrate expertise in at least one of the following areas: i) human microphysiological system (MPS) or 3D bioprinting, ii) mechanical engineering, device design and manufacturing, system automation, or mechatronics engineering, iii) iPSC-based tissue engineering, iv) GI mucosal biology, cancer biology, or cancer immunology, or v) clinical microbiology and host-microbiome interactions.

For more information about the lab's research, please visit https://biomelab2022.wordpress.com/positions/ or contact Dr. Kim at kimh19@ccf.org

Job Responsibilities:

  • Mechanical engineering and robotics, including precision mechatronics design for multi-scale laboratory experimentations with embedded automation
  • 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and precision manufacturing processes for multiscale hardware development
  • Microfluidics, microfabrication, or microengineering to integrate an engineered system with microscale biological models and implement automated system control

Education:

  • PhD or MD/PhD required
  • MD with relevant laboratory experience may substitute for PhD

Languages:

  • English Proficiency proof required for candidates arriving on J-1, J-2, or F1 + OPT visa status

Work Experience:

  • Previous experience in a research or academic setting. Graduate student experience meets this requirement.
  • Scientific writing experience

Additional Preferred Qualities:

  • Enzymology; glycobiology and carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes)
  • Proteomics-based target identification; protein engineering
  • Microbial synthetic biology, engineering designer probiotics or live biotherapeutics for targeted payload delivery or tumor-localized sensing
  • Host-microbiome biochemical interactions, glycoprotein processing, microbial physiology, or AI-assisted synthetic biology

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods
  • Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment
  • Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information
  • Ability to distinguish color
  • Manual dexterity to handle specimens and repair equipment
  • Ability to lift and transport equipment or specimens weighing up to 20 pounds
  • May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, bio-hazards, radioactive materials, etc.

Personal Protective Equipment:

  • PPE per institutional requirements; may vary by laboratory

Preferred Application Materials:

Applicants are required to send i) CV and ii) Cover Letter to kimh19@ccf.org. In the cover letter, please highlight the qualifications pertinent to the project outlined in the job description and a list of 3 references.

Keywords: Postdoc, Research, mechanical engineering and robotics, 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and precision manufacturing processes, microfluidics, microfabrication, or microengineering, microbial biochemistry and enzymology, glycobiology

Pay Range

Minimum Annual Salary: $31,200.00

Maximum Annual Salary: $95,000.00

The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate's actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate's work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic's benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).


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