Engineer in Research Inter

How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Carbon fiber electrodes are an emerging electrode technology that has shown promise for use in brain-machine interfaces because of their biocompatibility, recording capabilities, and their ease in neurosurgery. This project will involve developing manufacturing processes and tools to support fabricating novel carbon fiber electrodes and testing their implantation in large batches on a regular basis. Currently, these efforts require manual assembly, which involves fine movements under a microscope for long hours.

However, our group is working toward mechanizing the assembly steps involved. Consequently, we seek an engineer who can perform highly dexterous movements under a microscope and who has the ingenuity to improve and automate the assembly steps. Should have proven skills for designing and overseeing the manufacturing of tools and fixtures to facilitate the automation of carbon fiber electrode manufacturing and improve surgical tools for inserting these electrodes.

Additional responsibilities will include documenting the assembly process, troubleshooting unexpected results, designing and executing test protocols, and establishing & maintaining an organized and quality-oriented workspace.

Who We Are

At Michigan Engineering, we develop the talent and technologies that move society forward and serve our state and national interests. Through discovery and innovation, we create the foundational knowledge and practical technologies to solve not only today's most pressing challenges, but also power industries and change lives. Our programs and community are designed to promote personal well-being and achievement - enabling everyone to unlock their potential and contribute with confidence.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

* Generous time off

* A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting

* Many choices for comprehensive health insurance

* Life insurance

* Long-term disability coverage

* Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

* Maternity and Parental Leave

Responsibilities
* * Precision Assembly:
Perform highly dexterous micro-assembly and electrode fabrication, both manually and using robotic assembly tools.

* Fixture and tool Design:
Lead the design and manufacturing of custom tools and fixtures to mechanize production and to improve electrode implantation.

* Quality & Operations:
Establish rigorous test protocols, document processes, and maintain a quality-oriented workspace for manufacturing and experimentation.

* Testing and Inspection:
Conduct mechanical tests, electrical tests, and microscopy to evaluate the structure and performance of neural recording electrodes and devices.

Required Qualifications
* * Bachelor's degree in biomedical, mechanical, or electrical engineering, or physics.

* 1-3 years of professional experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.

* Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software, preferably Solid Works.

* Good hand-eye coordination under a microscope.

* Skill at operating computer- or joystick-controlled tools.

* Ability to communicate effectively with students, faculty, and other staff.

* Flexibility to adapt to changes assembly processes and requirements.

* Ability to establish and maintain an organized laboratory environment.

Desired Qualifications
* * Familiarity with electrode technology for neural recording and/or stimulation.

* Experience working in a cleanroom environment.

* Experience with advanced imaging systems such as Scanning Electron Microscopy.

* An eye for suggesting improvements in assembly processes.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes