Research Assistant III - Biosensors and Microfluidics

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you: 

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the role:

We're looking for a Research Assistant to join our team, focusing on developing new diagnostic devices. This involves creating electrochemical and optical assays, fabricating sensors, and integrating them into innovative diagnostic tools. You'll report to the group leader and Senior Engineer and learn advanced microfabrication techniques to build devices that use small sample volumes, deliver rapid results, and handle high throughput. A key part of your role will be addressing the challenges of microfluidics and integrating various sensitive detection methods into a single device. This is a great opportunity to learn new skills, contribute to assay development, and intellectually contribute to projects within a collaborative team at the Institute.

What you'll do:

• Device Design & Fabrication: Collaborate with staff in designing and microfabricating devices, contributing to bioanalytical assay development, and platform testing.
• Experimental Support: Collaborate with academic staff to design experiments and benchmark the bioanalytical sensing system against conventional assays (e.g., ELISA, PCR).
• Lab Operations: Manage supply orders and maintain lab spaces, including microfabrication and makerspace areas.
• Research Documentation: Support project reports, manuscripts, and patent application preparation.
• Data Presentation & Analysis: Under staff supervision, present findings, document meeting discussions, and contribute to data interpretation at Wyss Institute meetings.
• Logistical Coordination: Assist in organizing lab activities and events. 

What you'll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering or related field is required. 
• A minimum of 2 years of lab experience involving the development of biosensors and/or microfluidics is required. Advanced education may count towards years of experience.

Desirable skills:

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Biochemistry or Bioengineering is preferred.
• Candidates with previous experience in biosensing, microfluidics design, microfabrication (e.g. photolithography, metal patterning, soft lithography, rapid prototyping), electrochemical sensing (e.g. amperometry, potentiometry, impedance), optical sensing (e.g. colorimetry, SPR, fluorescence, chemiluminescence), bioassay development (e.g. antibody, DNA or enzyme based), mechanical engineering (3D design, printing), and/or electrical engineering is strongly preferred.
• Ability to work well independently and to collaborate with a multidisciplinary group is essential.
• Proficiency with personal computers and applicable software packages (Microsoft Office, CAD, Solidworks).
• Good written and oral communication skills are essential. Highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and able to take initiative.

• Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education.

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

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Work Format Details

This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. 

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.