Dr. Justin Weinbaum has just embarked on a career pivot as a Project Coordinator/Administrator at Carnegie Mellon University after serving for 13 years as a Research Assistant Professor of Bioengineering and Pathology at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Weinbaum earned his Bachelors in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University and Doctorate in Biology and Biomedical Sciences from Washington University in St. Louis.

Trained in classical molecular and cell biology, including the dynamic nature of the vascular extracellular matrix, Dr. Weinbaum uses those principles to direct projects in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. At the University of Pittsburgh, his group published preclinical testing of tissue engineered vascular grafts, mesenchymal stem cell based periadventitial treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysm regeneration, and the use of cell-derived extracellular vesicles to direct repair in a cell-free manner. He holds patents on many of these technologies. He is now beginning a new position, directing a multi-million dollar project focused on producing engineered livers for transplant.

In both positions, has been committed to student mentorship and professional development, serving as the Assistant Chair of Graduate Professional Development for the Department of Bioengineering during his time at Pitt. Dr. Weinbaum provides personalized mentoring through individual development plans and has created a curriculum of workshops to help scientists and engineers reach their career goals.