Postdoctoral Research Scholar

The salary range for this position is $5,858.68 - $6,435.00 per month depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering advances innovation in biomechanical engineering by integrating mechanical engineering principles with physiological systems to enhance human health and performance. Its research spans multiple biological scales—from cellular and tissue mechanics to whole-body biomechanics—to address complex physiological and pathological processes. Core research strengths include:

• Multiscale Biomechanics: Examining mechanical behavior from the cellular level to organ and system scales to better understand tissue integrity, organ function, and circulatory dynamics.
• Computational Modeling of the Cardiovascular System: Creating sophisticated simulations to analyze hemodynamics, predict cardiac performance, and support the optimization of cardiovascular interventions.
• Preclinical Studies: Conducting robust experimental assessments of new therapeutic approaches for patients with heart failure and related cardiovascular conditions.

The unit promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, life sciences, and physiology; secures external funding to support high-impact research; and contributes to excellence in both graduate and undergraduate education. Through these activities, the unit serves as a vital center for translating scientific discoveries into practical innovations that address major healthcare challenges.

The Postdoctoral Research Scholar is responsible for executing and reporting of studies funded by an NSF grant, which is focused on cardiopulmonary biomechanics in pulmonary hypertension development. The role includes experimental and computational studies, analyzing complex datasets, and publishing findings in high-impact journals. The postdoc will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and secure external funding through grant proposals. Additional responsibilities include mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards for preclinical studies, and fostering partnerships with industry and healthcare organizations.

Research and Publication / Dissemination of Research Data 85%

• Conducts independent and collaborative research, including study design, data collection, and analysis.
• Produces and submits high-quality publications such as journal articles, conference papers, and technical reports.
• Presents research findings at conferences, seminars, and workshops to broaden scholarly and public impact.
• Manages research data in accordance with institutional and funding requirements for accuracy, security, and ethical use.
• Shares research outcomes with academic, industry, and community audiences through presentations, reports, and open-science practices.

Research Proposal Writing and Grant Application 10%

• Identifies relevant funding opportunities and aligns research ideas with agency priorities.
• Develops and writes competitive research proposals, including objectives, methods, timelines, and budgets.
• Prepares and submits complete grant applications, ensuring compliance with funding and institutional guidelines.
• Collaborates with colleagues on joint proposals and integrates interdisciplinary expertise.
• Revises and resubmits proposals based on reviewer feedback to improve funding success.

Other Duties as Assigned 5%

Knowledge & Abilities

• Design and conduct complex experimental and/or computational research projects independently and collaboratively.
• Develop and validate computational models of physiological systems.
• Analyze and interpret datasets using appropriate statistical and computational tools.
• Prepare high-quality manuscripts, reports, and presentations for scientific audiences.
• Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students in research activities.
• Manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to evolving research priorities.

Minimum Education & Experience

• Doctoral or equivalent degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• 0-5 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualification & Special Skills

• Demonstrated expertise in multiscale biomechanics, computational modeling, and experimental design.
• Prior experience in cardiovascular physiology and/or pathology research.
• Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications and prior grant writing experiences.
• Experience with preclinical research protocols and regulatory compliance.
• Strong collaborative skills and ability to mentor students and junior researchers.

Additional Applicant Information

• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful…