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Microphysiological Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Experience with new approach methodologies (NAMs), microphysiological systems (MPS), organoids, organ-on-chip technologies, or related advanced cellular model platforms. * Demonstrated ability to ...

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Experience with new approach methodologies (NAMs), microphysiological systems (MPS), organoids, organ-on-chip technologies, or related advanced cellular model platforms. * Demonstrated ability to ...

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 is a microphysiological system?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Microphysiological jobs in Washington, DC? For Microphysiological jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Microphysiological job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Director, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), Translational Science (North Bethesda)

Foundation for the NIH

North Bethesda, MD

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The Director, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for toxicology and drug development, will lead the strategy, development, and execution of multi-sector scientific partnerships to advance, validate, and qualify innovative alternative models for drug development and human safety toxicity testing. These efforts will be under the banner of the NAMs Validation and Qualification Network (VQN) that is currently being stood up as a pillar to the Complement Animal Research in Experimentation (Complement-ARIE) Consortium facilitated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).  The projects within the VQN will include all types of NAMs, including in silico approaches, in vitro (e.g. microphysiological systems (MPS), organoids, and advanced cell/tissue systems), in chemico, and ex vivo, and the goal will be to drive these NAMs to a state of readiness for acceptance by the appropriate regulatory body. 

This role sits at the intersection of translational science, regulatory science, and collaborative innovation. The Director will work closely with biopharmaceutical, chemical, agrichemical, and comestics companies, regulatory agencies, academic investigators, and patient-focused organizations to accelerate the adoption of scientifically robust, fit-for-purpose models that improve predictive safety assessment and drug development and reduce reliance on traditional animal testing. This position will report to the Senior Vice President of Translational Science within the Science Partnerships department and is based at the FNIH offices located in North Bethesda, MD. 

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in preclinical drug development and toxicology, paired with the ability to lead complex, precompetitive collaborations, and design projects that will move toward regulatory acceptance. 

Key Responsibilities 

Scientific & Program Leadership & Portfolio Management  

  • Develop and lead a strategic portfolio of programs focused on NAMs for drug development and human safety/toxicity assessment 

  • Identify high-impact use cases where NAMs can be developed precompetitively for validation and qualification for regulatory agencies, including FDA, EMA, EPA, and others in the US and globally 

  • Facilitate group creation of scientific frameworks for model validation, context of use (COU) definition, and evidentiary standards 

  • Design, launch, and manage multi-partner collaborations across industry, academia, government, and nonprofits 

  • Build trusted relationships with biopharma, chemical, agrichemical, and cosmetics R&D leaders, regulatory scientists, and academic innovators 

Regulatory Science & Qualification Pathways 

  • Lead efforts to align validation strategies with regulatory expectations (e.g., FDA, EMA, PMDA, EPS, OECD, etc.) 

  • Translate emerging science into regulatory-ready, validated models for submission to the relevant qualification programs (e.g., iSTAND, ENTRÉE, OECD, etc.) 

Program Oversight & Delivery 

  • Ensure rigorous governance of all of the VQN and each precompetitive project developed 

  • Aid the VQN project leads on milestone tracking and financial stewardship 

  • Lead cross-functional workstreams including internal staff and external partners to address key needs in the NAMs validation and qualification space 

Field Building & Thought Leadership 

  • Represent the organization in scientific and policy forums and partner interactions 

  • Contribute to publications and consensus frameworks that advance the field 


Compensation details: 185000-225000 Yearly Salary


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