Research Assistant

Position Summary

The  Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering invites applications for a full-time Research Assistant position (Position Level: Entry). The role participates in an NIH‑funded research program to develop multiple drug delivery formulations, including hydrogel systems for cell therapies and long‑acting multipurpose prevention technologies. The focus will be on formulation development and optimization combined with in‑vitro and in‑vivo characterization and testing, as well as scientific data analysis, reporting, and manuscript writing.

• Develop and optimize drug delivery formulations and hydrogel systems.
• Perform in‑vitro assays (live/dead, ATP/MTT, ELISA, Western blot, RT‑PCR, immunohistochemistry).
• Conduct in‑vivo studies for safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy.
• Characterize materials using rheology, DSC, TGA, AFM, NMR, UV‑Vis, SEM, TEM, ESEM, BLI, and confocal imaging.
• Perform data analysis and create visual representations with Image
  
  J, Origin, Graph Pad, MATLAB, and Solid Works.
• Write reports, manuscripts, and assist with grant submissions.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and project manage tasks independently.

• Strong background in biomedical engineering, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with hydrogel formulations, tissue culture, and cell‑based assays.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques (HPLC, FT‑IR, rheology, spectroscopic and imaging methods).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage projects, and proactively publish research findings.
• Commitment to scientific rigor and research excellence.

• Prior project leadership and experience in translational research.
• Industry experience in biomedical engineering or product development.
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical sciences, biomaterial fabrication, and cell therapy research.
• Experience with CAD, 3D printing (SLA), and CAD software such as Solid Works.
• Interest in contributing to a collaborative research environment.

• Hourly Salary: $23.00 – $25.50 (dependent on experience)
• Position Type:
  Full‑time temporary (SHRA)
• Hours per Week: 40
• Location:
  
  North Carolina, US
  • Proposed
    
    Start Date:
    
    January 5, 2026
  • Estimated Duration: 6 months (not to exceed 11 months)