Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Mechanical Engineering seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead the engineering and fundamental research for a multi‑chamber cancer‑detection device from concept through laboratory integration. The role emphasizes device innovation, robust design, manufacturable build protocols, and the advancement of underlying science.

• Addressing project milestones in a timely manner.
• Building and nurturing collaborations with other teams in the project.
• Working collaboratively with other trainees in the laboratory.
• Completing all professional assignments in a timely manner, including creating reports and presentations, experimentations, etc.
• Independent day‑to‑day technical decisions; escalating risk/scope.
• Cleanroom and benchtop labs; possible BSL‑2 access.
• Milestone‑driven deliverables and data integrity.
• Works under PI with moderate independence; mentoring trainees.
• Design, fabricate, and assemble multi‑chamber cartridges and fixtures.
• Integrate electrodes and electronics; bring up calibration and QA checks.
• Produce SOPs, DfX notes, and transfer documentation.
• Collaborate with assay/firmware teams to ensure device supports performance needs.
• Supervise graduate or undergraduate students as needed.
• Other research, engineering, and development responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.

• Strong foundations in manufacturing, microfabrication, and microfluidics; extensive experience in experimental design and process development; hands‑on expertise with assembly and sealing of small‑scale fluidic systems.
• General knowledge of sensors and electronics to collaborate with chemistry and electronics teams.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM and finite‑element modeling, disciplined verification/validation practices, and ability to translate prototypes into user‑ready systems.
• Demonstrated integration with sensors/electronics (bring‑up, calibration), creation of manufacturable SOPs/DfX, and quantitative verification/validation.
• Evidence of rigorous experimental design, clear documentation, and successful collaboration across chemistry and electronics teams.
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related field, with specific experience related to the position.
• Experience leading end‑to‑end development of microfluidic or micro‑manufactured devices: design (CAD/CAM), analysis (FEM), fabrication, and assembly/sealing of small‑scale fluidic systems.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings program, tuition benefits, paid time off, holidays, and life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Location:

Pittsburgh, PA