The regenerative medicine section of the craniomaxillofacial (CMF) task area has a Researcjh Opportunity available at the US Army Institute of Surgical Research at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. We aim to translate regenerative medicine from bench to bedside to improve the quality of life of our soldiers and the population at large.

(A) This research program seeks to (1) understand the fundamental, innate response of cells and tissues under normal and wounded conditions; (2) understand the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mechanisms modulating the wound environment following tissue injury; and (3) understand the potential role of adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in improving wound outcomes, to include:

(1) Profiling of paracrine growth and signaling factors produced by MSC (e.g., bone marrow-, adipose-, and dentally-derived stem cells) and host cells grown in vitro alone, in co-culture with other cells of dermal origin, and in three-dimensional matrices;

(2) Characterization of these cellular secreted, bioactive factors for their ability to promote angiogenesis, inhibit apoptosis, enhance proliferation and differentiation of target cells, reduce fibrosis, and modulate inflammatory and immune responses in in vitro and in vivo wound healing models.

(3) Investigating the therapeutic properties of bioactive factors, biologics and drugs to reduce scarring and improving the wound healing response in burn and soft tissue animal wound models.

Applicants should have a a strong background in cell, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Familiarity and extensive expertise with stem cells, immunology, and wound healing of soft tissues is desirable.

(B) This research program seeks to (1)establish a porcine excisional burn wound model; (2)understand the potential role of dermal autografts of various thicknesses, to decrease contraction; and (3)understand the key dermal components which result in the least amount of contraction and highest skin quality, and the importance of the hypodermis in this animal burn model to include:

(1) Interpretation and characterization of the burn wound by histology and immunohistochemistry.

(2) Examination and interpretation of skin biology and quality with regard to: dermal and epidermal quality, angiogenesis, modulation of the inflammatory and immune responses, extracellular matrix deposition, and scar reduction.

(3) Investigating, troubleshooting, and development of the therapeutic properties of dermal substitutes to improving the wound healing response and reduce scarring in an animal burn wound model.

Within this broad framework we are less focused on one particular skill, rather we are more interested in an individual who has demonstrated the capacity to adapt and show a strong desire to learn new concepts and techniques. One should be able to apply established principles, theories, and concepts in the area of responsibility. Projects require familiarity with current scientific literature together with the capability to select methods and techniques for obtaining solutions within generally defined practices and policies.

The individual will be fostered to be inquisitive and encouraged to make recommendations for scientific and process improvements. The Associate will have many opportunities to relay their ideas to others within the team, composed of scientists and clinicians, and cross-functionally.

Applicants should have a doctoral degree in the biological life sciences, tissue engineering, or biomedical engineering with a strong background in cellular, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Extensive expertise with wound healing and animal burn wound models is highly desirable. Experience in aseptic and laboratory techniques, data analysis and management is a plus. Extra consideration will be given to those with experience in immunology of soft tissues.

 

key words

Wound healing; Scar; Animal model; Skin; Burn; Epithelialization; Inflammation; Stem cells, Paracrine signaling; Innate response;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and non-U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants