Principal Microfluidics Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal Scientist to advance microphysiological systems and organ-on-chip technologies, integrating biology, engineering, and software across projects.

The successful candidate will lead complex research, mentor engineers, develop experiments, design microfluidic devices, and coordinate lab activities on-site; a PhD or MS with 2+ years in related fields is preferred, and eligibility for government clearance is required.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of Bioengineering or related engineering experience.
• PhD or MS with 2+ years in related engineering fields preferred.
• Onsite in Cambridge, MA.
• Experience with organ-on-chip and tissue engineering applications preferred.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Independently drive solutions to complex problems.
• Develop requirements for innovative bioengineering solutions; adapt when customer requirements are unclear.
• Subject Matter Expert for advanced bioengineering research.
• Lead teams to develop new devices and technologies.
• Document, present and provide written reports of results.
• Design, model, fabricate, and characterize microfluidic devices.
• Develop and execute laboratory research plans; manage milestones.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal capability development.

Skills

Biology

Engineering

Teamwork

Organization

Problem solving

Time management

Mentorship

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Bioengineering/related fields

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microfabrication

Job description

Overview

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. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

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.

Job Description

• 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.

Skills/Abilities

• 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.

Education

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. Master's degree preferred.

Experience

Requires 5-7 years of Bioengineering or related engineering experience.

Additional Job Description

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.

Expertise in microfabrication techniques and technologies, including experience in microfluidic device design, fabrication and testing is required.

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.

Excellent oral and written communication skills are required.

Preferred: PhD or MS with 2 or more years of experience in Biomedical, Chemical, Mechanical or related Engineering disciplines.

Onsite in Cambridge, MA.

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Job Location - City: Cambridge Job Location - State: Massachusetts Job Location - Postal Code: 02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $95,000.00 - $245,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location.

The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations.

Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role.

Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work‑life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].

We are in the business of redefining what is possible.

Join our inclusive, multidisciplinary team to engineer the groundbreaking solutions of tomorrow.

Explore life at Draper with our unique culture and benefits at draper.com.