Soc/Clin Research Assistant-Shen

About the job

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.

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 (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.