JOB SUMMARY:
The Metis Foundation is seeking a Research Perfusionist to support the Military Cardiovascular Outcomes Research program (MiCOR) at the Uniformed Services University (USU) in Bethesda, MD. The position would be in support of the Battlefield Shock and Organ Support (BSOS) Program’s mission as well.
MiCOR is a program intended to understand the impact of military service- particularly precision medicine, stress, weight-gain, exercise, and pharmacotherapy- on cardiovascular risk. The mission of the MiCOR Program is to enhance the cardiovascular health and well-being of the Warfighter and the DOD community through innovative clinical research using precision techniques. MiCOR has a variety of clinical research studies focused on both the biomedical and behavioral components that contribute to cardiovascular risk and disease.
The Battlefield Shock and Organ Support Program at the Uniformed Services University is a translational research program dedicated to advancing life-saving technologies at the intersection of critical care, extracorporeal circulation, and military medicine. Our Mechanical Circulatory Support program focuses specifically on the application of ECMO and ECMO-derivative technologies to the treatment of cardiac arrest and controlled reperfusion — with the goal of developing novel interventions that can bridge the gap between the battlefield and the clinic.
The Metis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) specifically organized to advance clinically relevant scientific research to the medical community, especially within the US Department of Defense. We provide scientific, educational, financial and project management support in the conduct of federally and industry-sponsored research, clinical trials, and education. The Metis Foundation provides scientific, technical and programmatic support services to MiCOR and USU.
This position will potentially have duties at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the candidate may be required to obtain a Secret Clearance as well as undergo Credentialing before beginning work.
The Research Perfusionist will be an active participant in the design and execution of large animal research experiments, working alongside surgeons, scientists, and engineers to push the boundaries of what extracorporeal support can achieve. Independent thinking, a high degree of technical fluency, and a genuine interest in translational research are essential.
We are seeking an experienced, highly motivated, and technically skilled Perfusionist to join our research team as a core member of our mechanical circulatory support program. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a dynamic experimental environment, possesses the instincts to troubleshoot under pressure, and has the curiosity and adaptability to work with cutting-edge and evolving circuit technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
This is not an exhaustive list and the Research Perfusionist will be expected to perform other duties as needed.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Required knowledge and skills: Demonstrated fluency with ECMO circuit assembly, troubleshooting, and management. Exceptional communication skills — with the ability to interface effectively across disciplines, including surgeons, scientists, and research coordinators. Ability to function calmly and decisively in high-acuity, time-sensitive experimental scenarios. A strong personal commitment to integrity, transparency, and scientific rigor.
Preferred knowledge and skills: Prior experience in large animal research or surgical simulation environments. Familiarity with ECMO-derivative applications (e.g., ECPR, controlled reperfusion, isolated limb perfusion). Interest in or experience with circuit design, custom component integration, or novel perfusion configurations. Track record of or demonstrated interest in contributing to scientific publication or grant-supported research.
Minimum Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor's degree (preferred in biology, chemistry, or a related science field) and completion of an accredited Perfusion Training Program.
Minimum Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of clinical or research perfusion experience.
Required Licenses, Certification or Registration: Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) credential, or equivalent recognized certification.
Physical Capabilities: Long periods of sitting, standing, carrying light items
Work Environment: Part-time/ consultant-type, Onsite position in office and clinical care area; possible evening and/or weekend hours.
The Metis Foundation is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of Human Resources.