Technical Associate I, Griffith Lab

MIT • Cambridge, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Technical Associate I, Griffith Lab, within the Department of Biological Engineering, will join the Hardware Innovation Team. This role reports to Prof. Linda Griffith and David Trumper. The associate will be instrumental in developing, evaluating, and implementing next-generation fluidic platforms designed to replicate microscale organs, also known as 'organs on chips'. These platforms are crucial for modeling human diseases in the lab, including conditions affecting the liver, gastrointestinal tract, gynecologic system, and chronic infections. The position involves close collaboration with engineering colleagues and the internal biology team.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of two years of specialized lab experience (which may include experience gained as an undergraduate).
• Experience using CAD/CAM software such as Fusion 360 or SOLIDWORKS.
• Experience in micro-scale manufacturing methods such as CNC machining and 3D printing.
• Experience in ordering tools and components fabricated from external vendors, including iterating on designs, cataloguing, maintaining inventory of parts.
• Proficiency in basic experimental methods and data reporting.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends, and travel to partner labs for equipment setup.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with fluidic systems, mechanical design, sensors, and actuators.
• Programming experience with MATLAB, LabVIEW, and/or Python.
• Experience with PDMS/plastic device fabrication and sterilization.
• Familiarity with peristaltic pump calibration and tubing setup.
• Mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques.

Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical and fluidic QC testing of platforms, including design evaluation, pump verification, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Prepare and present weekly progress reports covering scientific/logistical updates, data analysis, and long-term planning needs.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, tutorials, and train collaborators in device operation and troubleshooting.
• Fabricate and maintain PDMS and plastic devices, including bonding, sterilization, and post-experiment cleaning using established protocols.
• Perform routine mammalian cell culture, including thawing, passaging cells, and media change.
• Conduct routine biological sample analysis (i.e. ELISA, qPCR, immunostaining).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level