Biography

B.S. 1995, Fudan University, P.R. China
Ph.D. 1999, Michigan State University
Postdoctoral Fellow 1999-2002, University of California Berkeley & Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Staff Scientist 2002-2006, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Research Interests

With an aging population, the demand for synthetic tissue scaffolds assisting the regenerative reconstruction of skeletal defects resulting from trauma, cancer and metabolic diseases is rising. Our lab is interested in 1) developing new biomaterial- and stem cell-based approaches towards bone and cartilage tissue regeneration, particularly dealing with hard-to-heal tissue defects resulting from aging, diabetes, and traumatic injuries; 2) identifying novel factors regulating stem cell renewal and skeletal tissue regeneration; 3) identifying new targets for the development of disease modifying drugs of osteoarthritis; and 4) improving the osteointegration of and reducing periprosthetic infections associated with existing orthopedic metallic implants. Many of the synthetic scaffolds we designed are programmed with unique physical properties to facilitate facile surgical delivery (injectable formulations; minimally invasive in vivo deployment and stable fixation), tunable & predictive in vivo degradation profiles, and spatially controlled presentation and temporally controlled release of bioactive factors for regulating stem/progenitor cell fate within the tissue niche environment.

San Diego (ORS meeting), March 2017

L to R: Yu, Ben, Tera, Jordan, Jie & Henry

Potential Rotation Projects

1. 
   Design and evaluation of smart synthetic bone / cartilage tissue grafts


2. 
   Metallic implant surface modifications for reducing periprosthetic infections


3. 
   New therapeutic targets for the development of disease modifying drugs of osteoarthritis

A postdoc opening is available to participate in NIH-funded studies aimed at combating implant-associated infections. Expectations for this position include novel monomer/polymer synthesis and in vitro characterizations as well as supporting relevant animal studies. The fellow is expected to work both independently and collaboratively, and contribute to a productive and cordial team environment.

Requirements:
• Recent PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering or related discipline
• Interest in applied and translational research
• Experience in organic/polymer synthesis and materials characterizations expected
• Experience with bacterial culture and animal studies desired but not required
• Self-motivated and organized, enjoys collaborations, good written and oral communication skills.

To apply for this position: Send your CV and the contact information for three references to Jie.Song@umassmed.edu