Soc/Clin Research Assistant-Shen

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Soc/Clin Research Assistant-Shen to support an NIH SBIR project focused on diagnostic devices. The role involves CAD modeling, rapid prototyping, and collaboration with researchers to advance device milestones.

The position is part-time (20 hours/week) with a temporary SHRA appointment in North Carolina. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree and hands-on experience in CAD tools and fabrication methods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Hands-on CAD experience with model development and refinement.
• Experience with rapid prototyping and fabrication processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and modify 3D CAD models of diagnostic device components.
• Fabricate device components using 3D printing and laser cutting.
• Assist design and assembly of small-volume fluid-handling systems.
• Evaluate prototype functionality, fit, sealing, and fluid paths.
• Troubleshoot fabrication challenges and iterate designs.
• Maintain organized design files and testing records.
• Collaborate with researchers and industry partners on milestones.

Skills

CAD Modeling

3D Printing

Prototyping

Fluid Handling

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

AutoCAD

Job description

Position Title

Soc/Clin Research Assistant-Shen

Position Type

Temporary Staff (SHRA)

Full-time/Part-time

Part-Time Temporary

Hours per week

20

Position Location

North Carolina, US

Hiring Range

$20.00 - $26.00 per hour

Application Deadline

10/28/2026

Estimated Duration of Appointment

6 months or longer

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. 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.

• 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

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

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.