"Research Specialist"

Position Summary

The department of Electrical & Computer Engineering has an open Research Specialist position to work under the direction of Professor Chong Xie. The central mission of Dr. Chong Xie's laboratory is to achieve seamless integration between engineered electronic systems and the nervous system, advancing our ability to understand, interface with, and augment living systems. Recently, the group has concentrated on creating a scalable, tissue-integrated electrical neural interface built from ultra-flexible nanoelectronic threads (NETs), designed to support stable, glial-scar-free integration with neural tissue and enable long-term, reliable recording.

We are seeking a Research Specialist to contribute to several projects involving the design, fabrication, and testing of ultra-flexible neural electrodes with an emphasis on clinical translation. The role includes supporting ongoing efforts through mechanical design, device assembly, and prototype testing across multiple R&D initiatives.

Ideal Candidate Statement

An ideal candidate would have some prior experience working in a research environment and a foundational understanding of mechanical design, 3D printing, PCB design, and hands-on work using a stereo microscope.

Workplace Requirements

This position is exclusively on-site, necessitating all duties to be performed in-person at Bioscience Research Collaborative, 5 days a week. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range

$45k-$53,000 annually

Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

This position is a one-year term-limited position funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• One or more (1+) years of experience in a research environment
  In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substitute.

Skills

• Listening, verbal and written communication, analytical, and research skills
• Good scientific and numerical skills with meticulous attention to details and accuracy
• Ability to work in a team environment, to participate actively, to collaborate and to motivate others in the lab
• Critical thinking, technical, data collection and interviewing skills
• Statistical and graphical analysis skills
• Ability to maintain quality, safety and/or infection control standards
• Ability to plan and schedule effectively
• Demonstrated ability to operate complex equipment and follow instructions
• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet software, Microsoft Office Suite
• Good organization skills and strong attention to detail
• Ability to conduct basic evaluation and analysis of data

Preferences

• Certified Research Administrator (CRA) preferred
• Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
• Experience with neuroscience

Essential Functions

• Assists in neural probe fabrication using established process steps
• Assists in the research and development activities related to fabrication, including promoting safety, and preparing simple reagent mixtures
• Collects, tracks and analyzes data through the use of spreadsheets and databases
• Communicates results through verbal presentations, written reports, and written articles submitted for publication in conjunction with PI
• May assist in the administration of the research project
• Prepares procurement requests and orders materials and supplies, manages sample and stock database, sets up and manages experiments, and maintains research results for publications
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions

• Assists with device testing in animal models
• Conducts experiments related to probe characterization