Our Mission

Our laboratory strives to understand and seek solutions to pathologies of tubular tissue and organs, such as blood vessels, urethra, colon, esophagus, etc., by applying our strengths in computational and experimental biomechanics, image analysis, cellular and molecular biology, and tissue engineering at an accelerated pace. Our laboratory represents successful collaborations within the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, as well as outside collaborations. We are training the researchers of tomorrow with cutting edge ideas and technology in the following specific research areas:

• Mechanopathobiological assessment of abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysm, including rigorous mechanical and architectural characterization of aneurysmal tissue, assessment of the role of intraluminal thrombus (ILT) in the pathophysiology of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), isolation and phenotypic characterization of cells from the wall and ILT of AAA tissue and understanding their mechanobiology in two- and three- dimensional models, and the development of a patient-specific, biomechanics-based rupture potential index for AAA.
• Mechanical characterization of cerebral aneurysms and treatments associated with this condition using computational and experimental techniques.
• Development of a human stem cell-based tissue engineered vascular graft (TEVG) using novel in-vivo and in-vitro methodologies and approaches.
• Experimental investigation of the role of biomechanical milieu in the development of vascular diseases - such as vein graft intimal hyperplasia, atherosclerosis, etc. - using a novel ex-vivo perfusion system.
• Experimental and computational investigation of diseases of the intestines, esophagus and urethra.

Current Openings

Biomechanics Research Engineer Position Open!

The Vascular Bioengineering Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh (Dr. David Vorp, PI) is currently seeking a research engineer in experimental vascular biomechanics. 

The experimental aspects include biomechanical testing of vascular tissue, both animal and human samples, under various conditions or treatments.

While gaps in specific techniques will be taught to the person who fills this position, a base knowledge of or ability to quickly learn them is necessary. Previous experience in the techniques is preferred. The successful candidate will possess the ability to troubleshoot laboratory equipment; procure tissue samples from animals or from humans (from the OR and/or autopsy suite); program and debug computer systems; maintain a variety of databases; and have the ability to design, fabricate (3D print) and test prototypes. For this position, the candidate must be reliable and have a strong work ethic, being willing and able to work occasional weekends and evenings as needed. The candidate should have excellent English speaking and writing skills to communicate effectively within multidisciplinary research teams. General information on the lab and Dr. Vorp can be found at: http://www.engineering.pitt.edu/vorplab/. 

Salary will be according to University guidelines and commensurate with previous related experience. We will continue to accept applications for this opening until the position is filled. To apply, please send a cover letter summarizing relevant qualifications as they pertain to this position as well as a resumé via email with the subject line “Biomech Engineer Position” to:

Ms. Emily Vonderporten, Ehv3@pitt.edu
ATTN: David A. Vorp, Ph.D., Department of Bioengineering University of Pittsburgh 

_{The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.}

 

For information about other current openings please contact Dr. David Vorp at vorp@pitt.edu.