Vascular Biology Research Technician in Endothelial Cell Dynamics

Assist with research activities directed toward understanding vascular endothelial cell biology and the role of blood flow mechanics in controlling vascular health and disease.

Your blood vessels are constantly changing. They expand and contract, branch and regress, clot, clog, and clear. Understanding how the body controls these processes could be instrumental in advancing human health, from development through aging and disease.

The inner lining of blood vessels, called the endothelium, plays a crucial role in initiating these changes. However, we still don't understand how the endothelium decides what to do at any given moment. Our lab aims to understand how the endothelium senses and understands environmental cues. Specifically, we are interested in the role of blood flow. We know that changes in the force exerted by blood flowing over the surface of the endothelium can significantly change how endothelial cells behave.

Therefore, we study how different types of blood flow activate networks of endothelial molecules to make specific changes in vessel structure. With a thorough understanding of these processes, we may be able to control blood vessel remodeling to help rebuild tissue or treat diseases like cholesterol accumulation and vessel blockage, abnormal blood vessel growth, and dementia.

Basic duties will include ordering supplies, organizing the laboratory, preparing reagents, and performing tissue culture and basic molecular biology. Additional responsibilities may include assisting in experimental setup and disassembly. Ambitious employees will also have an opportunity to learn advances techniques and develop individual scientific interests while working alongside Dr. Coon.

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BA/BS degree in one of the biological sciences, biomedical engineering, chemistry, or physics and 1 years of relevant laboratory experience.

Basic computer skills including Internet software, order processing systems, and Microsoft Office software. Must be organized, willing to learn and take direction, keep meticulous records, and meet deadlines. Professionalism, excellent communication skills, and acceptance of diverse personalities/cultures is required.