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Microfluidic Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer II, Microfluidic

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$88.10K - $134.40K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY The Microfluidic Engineer II is responsible for mechanical design, prototyping ... driven research and development group. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Design, fabricate, and ...

Research Technician

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated wet bench technician to support innovative single-cell research ... We leverage high-throughput microfluidic systems, robotic liquid handling, and advanced image ...

The Associate Research Scientist will support both the development rapid diagnostic device ... Perform bench work to develop metabolic assays on paper-based microfluidic IVD devices

... developing microfluidic and droplet microfluidic encapsuolation techniques. 2. Calculate ... Some prior research preferred but not essential. Additional Job Details (if applicable) Remote Type ...

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Microfluidic Research information

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How much do microfluidic research jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for microfluidic research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Microfluidic Research, and why are they important?

To excel in Microfluidic Research, a strong background in physics, chemistry, engineering, or biology—often supported by a relevant advanced degree—is essential. Familiarity with CAD software, cleanroom fabrication techniques, microscopy, and analytical instrumentation, as well as experience with simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong collaboration and communication skills are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are important to design, prototype, and analyze microfluidic devices accurately and to drive innovation in multidisciplinary research environments.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a microfluidic research team, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in microfluidic research is bridging the gap between theoretical designs and practical device fabrication, as small variances in materials or assembly can affect experimental outcomes. Team members often collaborate closely with engineers, chemists, and biologists to troubleshoot and iterate on prototypes. Open communication and regular team meetings are essential for sharing progress, addressing technical setbacks, and integrating interdisciplinary expertise. Being flexible and proactive in problem-solving helps ensure research goals are met efficiently.

What is microfluidic research?

Microfluidic research is the study and application of systems that process or manipulate tiny amounts of fluids, typically at the microliter to picoliter scale, using channels with dimensions of tens to hundreds of micrometers. This field combines principles from engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, and biotechnology to develop devices, often called lab-on-a-chip, for applications such as diagnostics, drug development, and chemical analysis. Researchers in this area design, fabricate, and test microfluidic devices to achieve precise control of fluid flows, enabling rapid and high-throughput experiments.

What is the difference between Microfluidic Research vs Microfluidic Development Engineer?

AspectMicrofluidic ResearchMicrofluidic Development Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a PhD or Master's in biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, or related fieldsUsually requires a Bachelor's or Master's in engineering or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or R&D departmentsProduct development teams, manufacturing facilities, or industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, or industry research focused on understanding microfluidic phenomenaIndustry-focused, designing and optimizing microfluidic devices for commercial use

Microfluidic Research primarily involves exploring fundamental principles and conducting experiments in labs, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, Microfluidic Development Engineers focus on designing, testing, and bringing microfluidic devices to market, typically with a Bachelor's or Master's degree. Both roles are essential in the microfluidics industry but differ in their focus and work environment.

More about Microfluidic Research jobs
Infographic showing various Microfluidic Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 23% Internship, 45% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 24% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 27% Hybrid, and 73% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Engineer II, Microfluidic

Engineer II, Microfluidic

MSD

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$88.10K - $134.40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Microfluidic Engineer II is responsible for mechanical design, prototyping, testing, and documentation in the development of new microfluidic and cartridge consumables for the biodefense, clinical, and life-science markets. This position will require a high degree of technical ability and creativity to develop solutions for a novel generation of consumables. The incumbent will work with a cross functional team of engineers, scientists, and biologists in a highly collaborative results driven research and development group.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design, fabricate, and characterize microfluidic devices for integration with biological assays including but not limited to ELISA and molecular assays.
  • Identify opportunities for improving performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in future generations of products.
  • Contribute to the development of requirements and specifications.
  • Contribute to the development, implementation, and documentation of test protocols for both informal and formal design testing.
  • Interact with outside vendors and MSD's supplier quality department to source and qualify parts and materials.
  • Develop relevant design control documentation.
  • Present designs, engineering issues, and solutions to senior management as required.
  • Specific duties will vary depending upon departmental requirements.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, or related field.
    • Advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum 5 years of industrial experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience programming for instrument control and data analysis (LabView, MATLAB, Python) strongly preferred.
  • Experience in an ISO, cGMP, or other regulated environment preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Demonstrated proficiency with fluidic chip design using CAD packages (AutoCAD, Solidworks or equivalent).
  • Ability to analyze and interpret experimental data using software tools (e.g., Excel, JMP, Graph Pad Prism) required.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in simulation software such as COMSOL or Ansys-Fluent preferred.
  • Working knowledge of the manufacture of FDA regulated devises is a plus.
  • Strong engineering fundamentals and analytical abilities.
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of project data.
  • Excellent organizational and bench skills.
  • Comfortable designing and performing laboratory experiments for testing microfluidic devices.
  • Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.
  • Proven track record in developing and delivering microfluidic systems (consumables and instruments).
  • Knowledge of process development, material selection, and surface treatment/functionalization for microfluidic devices.
  • Knowledge of design for volume manufacturing processes.
  • Understanding of design of microfluidic features including:
    • Mixing elements and strategies.
    • Capillary microfluidic features and strategies.
    • Fluidic Inlet and outlet integration.
    • Sensor integration
    • Separation or sorting elements and techniques desired.
    • Bubble traps and similar mitigations desired.
    • Passive and active valving desired.
  • Understanding of design and prototyping fabrication processes including:
    • Microfabrication
    • Embossing
    • Plastic Bonding
    • Injection molding desired
    • Etching desired
    • Roll to roll converting desired
    • Soft lithography desired

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms. This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position is performed in an engineering/laboratory environment.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $88,100 to $134,400. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.