Job Description

The University of Pittsburgh Human Movement and Balance Laboratory (HMBL) is seeking a Research Engineer in the Department of Bioengineering. The research mission of the HMBL is injury prevention via a thorough understanding of the biomechanical and postural control principles that govern human movement, balance, and performance of occupational tasks. Housed in the Department of Bioengineering and situated in Schenley Place at the University of Pittsburgh, HMBL is designed and equipped to analyze the dynamics of human motion including gait. HMBL is part of a larger effort including other laboratory facilities (the Medical Virtual Reality Center and the Jordan Center for Balance Disorders) located in the Department of Otolaryngology. A multidisciplinary group of researchers including biomechanical engineers, physicians, and physical therapists work in collaboration across these facilities. The ideal candidate will be primarily responsible for the coefficient of friction data collection and for database management for collected data. The incumbent will have responsibilities in designing experimental devices that contribute to data collection and for interaction with governmental and industry partners. The incumbent will also assist with data collection of human subject studies and conducting biomechanical analyses.


Job Summary
Assists with designing, fabricating, and maintaining research instrumentation. Assists with the development of conceptual project design and instrumentation, software programs, and data collection methods.  Assists with conducting research.

Essential Functions
Ability to speak clearly in order to communicate with other lab employees. Must have manual dexterity to use keyboard and other lab and office equipment, and to occasionally walk to various locations throughout the campus.

Physical Effort
Generally sedentary, however, this position does require incumbent to occasionally visit other locations throughout the campus. May occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.


The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

The University of Pittsburgh requires all Pitt constituents (employees and students) on all campuses to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption. Visit hr.pitt.edu/contact-ohr to learn more.