The Department of Cardiac Surgery is seeking a temporary research assistant to help support the Thoracic Aorta Research Lab. The selected candidate will focus on research activities related to molecular mechanisms of thoracic aortic aneurysms and collaborate with bioengineers to create engineered tissue vascular grafts.

In this role, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to:

• Develop an understanding of administrative and research processes/procedures in an academic medical center.
• Interact with experienced study investigators, coordinators, and office administrative personnel.
• Learn medical and research terminology, gain communication skills experience, and work in an academic research setting.

The Thoracic Aorta Research Lab brings together surgeons and researchers to develop novel approaches that address clinical needs in human aortic research and surgical intervention. Their work aims to improve the surgical outcomes of various procedures targeting thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. In translational research, the team combines human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC), gene editing, tissue engineered blood vessels, and functional genomics to reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying aortic aneurysm and dissection.

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally.  Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work independently, as well as cooperatively with others. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and sustain a high level of organization. 
• Ability to be punctual and detail oriented. 

• Master's degree preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Prior experience working in an academic research setting. 

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Temporary job openings may be removed from posting boards and filled at any time.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.