Soc/Clin Research Assistant-Shen

UNC Lineberger; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

UNC Lineberger seeks a Research Assistant to support an NIH SBIR project focused on developing diagnostic devices for misfolded proteins. You will design, fabricate, assemble and test prototype devices, with emphasis on CAD modeling, 3D printing and rapid prototyping.

Ideal candidates are undergrad or recent graduates in biomedical or mechanical engineering with hands-on CAD experience and familiarity with SolidWorks or Fusion 360, ready to collaborate with researchers and industry partners.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or recent graduate in biomedical or mechanical engineering with hands-on CAD experience.
• Experience with 3D printing, rapid prototyping and fabrication of functional components.
• Familiarity with microfluidics or small-volume devices is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and modify 3D CAD models of device components using CAD software.
• Fabricate device components using 3D printing, laser cutting and rapid prototyping.
• Assist with design and assembly of small-volume fluid-handling systems and membrane components.
• Evaluate prototype functionality including fit, sealing, and fluid pathways.
• Troubleshoot fabrication challenges and implement design improvements.
• Maintain organized design files and testing documentation.
• Collaborate with researchers and industry partners to meet milestones.

Skills

CAD modeling

3D printing

rapid prototyping

experimental design

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

AutoCAD

laser cutting

Job description

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education and research.
Patient care: We promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.
Education: We prepare tomorrow`s healthcare professionals and biomedical researchers from all backgrounds by facilitating learning within innovative and integrated curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education to ensure a highly skilled workforce.
Research: We develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers and resources. We provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our university to support outstanding research. We foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic and population research.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Research Assistant to support an NIH -funded Small Business Innovation Research ( SBIR ) project focused on developing devices for detection of misfolded proteins.
The Research Assistant will assist with the design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of prototype devices. This position is particularly well suited for an undergraduate or recent graduate in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field with hands-on experience in CAD modeling, 3D printing, and rapid prototyping.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop and modify 3D CAD models of diagnostic device components using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar software.
• Fabricate device components using 3D printing, laser cutting, and other rapid prototyping techniques.
• Assist with the design and assembly of small-volume fluid-handling systems, sample chambers, and membrane-based components.
• Evaluate prototype functionality, including component fit, sealing, fluid pathways, and vacuum-assisted operation.
• Troubleshoot fabrication challenges and implement iterative design improvements.
• Maintain organized design files, fabrication records, and testing documentation.
• Collaborate with researchers and industry partners to support device development milestones.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Management Preferences

• Experience with computer-aided design ( CAD ) software, such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD, including developing and modifying 3D models
• Hands-on experience with 3D printing, rapid prototyping, or fabrication of functional engineering components
• Experience with laser cutting, acrylic fabrication, or other polymer-based manufacturing techniques
• Familiarity with microfluidics, fluid dynamics, vacuum systems, or small-volume liquid-handling devices, preferably in biomedical device development

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Optional and Required Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• List of References

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).