1

Microphysiological Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Microphysiological information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microphysiological Systems Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microphysiological Systems Scientist, you need a strong background in cell biology, tissue engineering, and biomaterials, typically supported by an advanced degree in biological sciences or bioengineering. Familiarity with microfluidic device fabrication, imaging systems, and analytical software like MATLAB or ImageJ is often required. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills are crucial in this interdisciplinary field. These skills enable the design and analysis of complex biological models that advance drug discovery and biomedical research.

What are microphysiological systems?

Microphysiological systems, also known as organ-on-a-chip technologies, are advanced laboratory models that replicate the functions of human organs on a miniature scale. These systems use living cells arranged on micro-engineered platforms to mimic the structure and function of tissues and organs. They are used in biomedical research to study disease mechanisms, drug responses, and toxicity in a controlled environment, potentially reducing the need for animal testing. Microphysiological systems provide more accurate and human-relevant data compared to traditional cell cultures or animal models.

What is the difference between Microphysiological vs Cell Culture Technician?

AspectMicrophysiologicalCell Culture Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, biomedical engineering, or related fieldsOften requires a degree or certification in biology or laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical testing facilitiesLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companies
Industry UsageUsed in drug testing, disease modeling, tissue engineeringUsed in cell growth, maintenance, and preparation for experiments

Microphysiological roles focus on creating complex tissue models that mimic human organs, often requiring advanced technical skills. Cell Culture Technicians primarily handle cell growth and maintenance. While both roles involve laboratory work and biological expertise, Microphysiological positions typically demand more specialized knowledge in tissue engineering and organ-on-chip systems.

What are some common challenges faced by microphysiological system researchers, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Microphysiological system researchers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex biological and engineering concepts, troubleshooting device malfunctions, and ensuring reproducibility of experimental results. New team members can prepare by staying updated on the latest advances in organ-on-chip technologies, refining their problem-solving skills, and actively communicating with multidisciplinary colleagues. Participating in regular team meetings and collaborating closely with engineers, biologists, and data analysts will help address issues as they arise and foster a supportive research environment.
What job categories do people searching Microphysiological jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Microphysiological jobs in California are:
Scientist

Scientist

Advanced Software Talent

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

NO sub-contracting! No sponsorship ! Be local to Northern California Bay area as this requires on site full time M-F 8 hours a day.

JD:


Position Overview

The Complex In Vitro Systems (CiS) Lab within Translational Safety is seeking a highly motivated Scientist to support the development, characterization, and qualification of advanced human in vitro models that help drive the development of safe and effective medicines.

This team partners closely with colleagues across Development Sciences, Translational Medicine, and Research to establish innovative platforms that support target evaluation, lead optimization, and safety assessment across diverse therapeutic programs, novel modalities, and emerging disease areas.

In this highly collaborative, lab-based role, you will provide scientific expertise in the development and implementation of advanced human lung complex in vitro models, including organoids, air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures, and lung microphysiological systems. You will play a key role in designing experiments, generating high-quality data, analyzing complex datasets, and helping advance next-generation disease modeling platforms for drug development.


Key ResponsibilitiesComplex In Vitro Model Development
  • Develop, optimize, qualify, and implement advanced human lung in vitro model systems, including:
    • Airway organoids
    • Alveolar organoids
    • Air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures
    • Lung-on-chip and microphysiological co-culture platforms
  • Support disease modeling initiatives and lung safety risk assessment efforts across therapeutic programs

Experimental Design & Characterization
  • Design and execute experiments to characterize complex lung models using:
    • Cell viability assays
    • Morphology assessments
    • Barrier integrity and permeability testing
    • Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) assays
    • Functional phenotyping assays
  • Perform advanced characterization techniques including:
    • Confocal imaging
    • High-content imaging
    • Immunofluorescence
    • Transcriptomics
    • Proteomics
    • RNA-based assays

Data Analysis & Scientific Communication
  • Analyze and interpret complex experimental datasets
  • Present findings to internal stakeholders and cross-functional teams
  • Support scientific presentations, publications, and technical reports
  • Communicate results clearly to both technical and non-technical collaborators

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner closely with teams across Translational Medicine, Development Sciences, and Research
  • Align complex model development efforts with broader therapeutic strategies and program needs

Documentation & Compliance
  • Maintain accurate electronic documentation in accordance with departmental SOPs
  • Contribute to study reports, safety assessments, and final project deliverables
  • Ensure high-quality scientific documentation and reproducibility standards

Required QualificationsEducation

PhD in one of the following fields:

  • Bioengineering
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Toxicology
  • Or a related scientific discipline

0 5 years of post-PhD experience in industry or academia conducting hypothesis-driven research


Technical Expertise
  • Hands-on experience culturing multiple lung cell types, including primary cells and relevant cell lines
  • Strong experience developing and applying:
    • Airway organoids
    • Alveolar organoids
    • Co-culture systems
    • Microphysiological systems
    • Microfluidic platforms
  • Experience supporting translational research or drug discovery applications

Laboratory & Analytical Skills

Experience with:

  • qRT-PCR
  • RNA-seq
  • Proteomics
  • Immunofluorescence
  • Confocal microscopy
  • Live-cell imaging
  • Time-lapse imaging
  • High-content screening

Strong experimental troubleshooting, assay optimization, and protocol development experience required.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Background in lung biology and/or immunology
  • Experience using Python and/or MATLAB for image analysis, computational workflows, or large-scale data analysis

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a collaborative scientist who thrives in a fast-paced research environment and enjoys building innovative biological models that directly impact drug development. This individual brings strong scientific rigor, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for advancing translational safety through next-generation in vitro systems.