Principal Microfluidics Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory•Cambridge, MA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. The Bioengineering Division is seeking a Principal scientist to support the research and development of cutting-edge technologies. At Draper Bioengineering, we work at the interface between engineering and biology, and the successful applicant will join teams working on Microphysiological systems (organ-on-chip) and other novel systems that blend complex biology with custom hardware and software. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, observant, collaborative, and dedicated. They will serve as a subject matter expert, applying foundational microfluidics and tissue engineering knowledge and experience to exciting, interdisciplinary efforts. Draper offers a distinctive environment that blends the best aspects of academia, government, and industry. Our supportive team atmosphere fosters innovation, intellectual creativity, and an emphasis on career development. The available position offers the potential for career growth and opportunities to take on more responsibility over time.

Requirements

Strong foundation in biology and/or engineering principles.
Team player, dedicated, collaborative, observant, and motivated.
Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and verbal and written communication skills.
Creative problem-solving skills and a passion for innovation.
Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
Enthusiasm for learning and participating in mentorship/mentoring.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.
Requires either a Bachelor's Degree in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related fields.
Requires 5-7 years of Bioengineering or related engineering experience.
Expertise in microfabrication techniques and technologies, including experience in microfluidic device design, fabrication and testing is required.
Excellent oral and written communication skills are required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience with organ-on-chip and tissue engineering applications is preferred.
Knowledge of planning and execution of molecular and cellular assays, such as qPCR and flow cytometry, is strongly preferred.
Preferred: PhD or MS with 2 or more years of experience in Biomedical, Chemical, Mechanical or related Engineering disciplines.

Responsibilities

Independently drive solutions to complex problems.
Develop requirements for innovative bioengineering solutions, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
Subject Matter Expert (SME) able to perform advanced research and analysis for complex bioengineering solutions.
Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced bioengineers; Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve goals.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Design, model, fabricate, and characterize microfluidic devices for cell and tissue engineering applications.
Develop and execute laboratory research plans that support project goals and milestones.
Experimental design, assay execution, troubleshooting, and data analysis for studies that involve technologies at the convergence of biology and engineering.
Document, present, and provide written reports of results.
Lead teams of engineers in development of new devices and technologies.
Assist with development of internal capabilities by providing technical expertise.
Generate project concepts and contribute to proposal development for a range of sponsors.
The position will involve hands-on laboratory work, but may also include coordination and supervision of lab staff and resources.