Research Technician II

Rice University • Houston, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Xie Laboratory develops technologies that integrate engineered electronics with the nervous system to better understand, interact with, and augment living systems. Current work includes scalable, tissue-integrated electrical neural interfaces using ultra-flexible nanoelectronic threads (NETs) designed to support reliable, long-term neural recording. The Research Technician II supports projects involving fabrication of ultra-flexible neural electrodes and related research and development activities.

The position performs standard MEMS fabrication processes in a cleanroom environment and supports process development for ongoing research projects. Duties include neural probe fabrication, collecting and analyzing fabrication and experimental data, supporting laboratory and cleanroom operations, managing materials and supplies, documenting research, and providing guidance to student researchers on established procedures and equipment use. The position is exclusively on-site at Rice University Campus. It is a one-year, term-limited, full-time, benefits-eligible position funded by grant, soft, and/or restricted funds; renewal may depend on funding availability, research needs, and performance. It is a non-exempt hourly role eligible for overtime.

Requirements

• Associate degree.
• Three or more years of related experience in a cleanroom, semiconductor fabrication, MEMS fabrication, research laboratory, or closely related technical environment.
• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency in relevant math and research skills.
• Good organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to listen and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and in team environments.
• Ability to evaluate and analyze data.
• Ability to maintain quality and safety standards.

Nice To Haves

• Education in physical science, chemical science, materials science, engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with semiconductor or MEMS fabrication in a cleanroom environment.
• Experience with photolithography, metal deposition, and dry and/or wet etch processes.
• Experience with neural probe fabrication, microfabrication process development, device assembly, or device characterization.

Responsibilities

• Conduct neural probe fabrication and related research activities using established cleanroom and microfabrication processes with general guidance.
• Collect, track, evaluate, and analyze fabrication and experimental data using spreadsheets, databases, and other research tools.
• Support process development and research related to ultra-flexible neural electrodes, including photolithography, metal deposition, etching, and related fabrication steps.
• Support day-to-day laboratory and cleanroom technical operations, including promoting safety, maintaining equipment and work areas, and preparing materials and reagents.
• Prepare procurement requests and order materials and supplies; manage samples, stocks, and research materials used in fabrication activities.
• Support the setup and management of experiments and maintain research results and documentation for reports and publications.
• Provide technical guidance and training to undergraduate and graduate researchers on established cleanroom procedures and equipment use, as assigned.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree