Research Engineer - Hardware and Software Design; Temporary

Position: Research Engineer 2 - Hardware and Software Design (Temporary)

Job Description

Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition – temporary Research Engineer 2 position.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Dr. Ian Sweet, Research Associate Professor, the Research Engineer 2 will develop and optimize in‑vitro fluidics instrumentation for research focused on maintaining and assessing real‑time tissue function in response to dissolved trace signaling gases (O2, H2S, NO, CO). The methodologies will be applied to studies of diabetic complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy and islet dysfunction in collaboration with researchers from the laboratories of James Hurley (Biochemistry), John Kramlich (Mechanical Engineering), and James Hermanson (Aeronautics and Astronautics).

Key Responsibilities Design fluidics hardware and analytical instrumentation (25%)

• Use CAD software to design and fabricate instrumentation via 3D printing or other fabrication methods. Projects include integrating a gas‑mixing system for spectrophotometric cuvettes, fluorescent imaging systems, perifusion systems, and a well‑stirred tissue chamber to assess metabolic, signaling, or hormonal responses while maintaining tissue viability.

Build/test gas control systems, autoinjectors, and gas/liquid equilibration systems (25%)

• Purchase, fabricate, or assemble materials and components based on optimized designs. Test and optimize instrument operation to ensure stable flow rates, accurate response times for injected test compounds, and reliable measurement of O2 concentration.

Develop software for computer‑control and automation of fluidics systems (25%)

• Control instrumentation via a user interface that ports data to data‑processing software. Automate time‑dependent autoinjectors, gas composition from multiple mass flow controllers, and liquid flow control using variable resistance valves.

Test and optimize devices to precisely control dissolved gas composition with tissue samples (15%)

• Generate data demonstrating maintenance of tissue viability and accurate assessment of tissue function under controlled gas composition.

Process, graph, and report data and document methodologies for papers and grants (10%)

• Prepare data confirming accuracy and reliability of the instrumentation. Clearly and concisely describe methodologies for publication and grant submissions.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications where appropriate.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related engineering field and two years of experience designing hardware and software.

Additional Qualifications

• Experience in instrumentation, electronics, engineering principles, and software development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in CAD drawing, 3D printing, numerical solutions, and data processing.
• Experience working in a research setting.

About The Research

The research focuses on the role of dissolved gas signals on retinal, islet, and tissue function. Dissolved O2 and trace gases such as H2S, NO, and CO act as signals regulating cellular and mitochondrial function. Current quantitative methods for measuring real‑time effects of dissolved gases on intact tissue are unavailable. The developed technology allows unprecedented control of both O2 and trace gases, providing a foundation to investigate new mechanisms and effects on disease pathways, including stroke, cancer, and diabetic complications.

Compensation,

Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum: $68,736.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum: $84,000.00 annual

Other Compensation:

Benefits information: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Shift: First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular: This is a temporary position

FTE (Full‑Time Equivalent): 100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit: Not Applicable

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with the UW Executive Order No.

81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206‑543‑6450 or dso.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

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