Research Associate – Biomedical/Mechanical Engineer

The Ray lab seeks a highly motivated, experienced engineer to develop and build automated, high throughput, closed loop assays for physiological and molecular assays aimed at defining disease mechanisms, creating diagnostic tests, and novel therapies. The work requires expertise in robotics, electrical engineering, and CAD/CAM manufacturing (i.e. CNC and 3D printing) and focus on maintaining current custom robotic platforms, building additional platforms, and improving current designs and approaches. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated Biomedical or Mechanical Engineer with a Masters or PhD and a demonstrable track record in medical device design and prototyping, robotics, and manufacturing. Should possess exceptional time management skills and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining meticulously organized notes and documentation.

Job Duties

• Design and manufacture custom parts using computer aided design (i.e. Solidworks) and CNC milling, 3D printing, and laser cutting
• Head a major construction effort to build a cardio-respiratory phenotyping pipeline supporting several NIH funded grants
• Design and construct scientific equipment for the Ray lab
• Perform as a project manager across multiple projects and teams within the lab Combined duties listed below will account for
• Build additional assay platforms for parallel experimentation
• Hand tooling various materials (acrylic, polycarbonate, aluminum, copper, etc.)
• Electrical circuit and PCB design (w/outsourced production)
• Utilize micro-boards and micro-computers (including programming) for controlling different actuators and sensors
• Maintain current robotic platforms
• Improve current designs for increased efficiency and added features for new feedback loops and inputs
• Work with key stake holders i.e. students, post-docs, research associates, and collaborators to determine user needs, identify areas of improvement, and initiate new projects
• Diagnose and repair broken equipment
• Supervise BioEngineer and electrical engineer interns and technicians in constructing scientific research equipment
• Train all team members in the lab as needed
• Act as a project manager to ensure timely delivery of expected products by each team member
• Evaluate the performance of all team members to ensure that competency in each skill area noted above is achieved
• Responsible for verbal and written feedback including corrective actions regarding progress and attendance and safety compliance
• Provide input for decisions on promotions, hiring, and disciplinary action

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Basic Science or a related field.  Experience in lieu of degree will not be accepted.
• Three years of relevant experience typically as a Research Assistant, Research Technician or Postdoctoral Fellow/Associate.

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.