Mission
NIUM is seeking a motivated R&D Engineer to spearhead the design, optimization, and implementation of a new microfluidic cartridge as part of a PT2030 funded project, in collaboration with the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) and the University of Minho. Beyond this, the engineer will support NIUM’s broader platform development activities, including the evolution of its automated microfluidics culture system and the establishment of in-house capabilities for scalable microfluidic cartridge production.
Responsibilities
- Co-design and iterate new microfluidic cartridge prototypes alongside research partners (INL, University of Minho), integrating user requirements, fluid dynamics, and manufacturing constraints.
- Translate biological performance requirements into technical specifications and engineering solutions.
- Oversee fabrication processes, including design-for-manufacturing reviews and liaison with prototyping vendors.
- Support cartridge testing by collaborating with the validation technician team, ensuring seamless integration with existing automation platforms.
- Analyze test results and iterate on designs to optimize performance, reproducibility, and manufacturability.
- Contribute to the architectural design and development of next-generation IMAT platform versions, including modularity, sensors integration, and control systems.
- Support the creation of internal infrastructure to produce microfluidics cartridges in-house—defining equipment requirements, SOPs, and workflows.
- Collaborate with automation, biology, and product teams to ensure robust system-level compatibility and performance.
- Participate in interdisciplinary brainstorming, feasibility assessments, and future roadmap planning for NIUM’s hardware platforms.
Required qualifications
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records. Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Microfluidics, or a related field (MSc or PhD preferred).
- Hands-on experience in the design and prototyping of microfluidic devices or lab-on-chip systems.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and rapid prototyping techniques.
- Understanding of fluid dynamics, materials selection, and fabrication methods (soft lithography, injection molding, micromilling, etc.).
- Familiarity with biological and clinical applications of microfluidic technologies.
Desired experience
- Comfortable navigating multidisciplinary projects with flexibility and a proactive mindset. Experience working with academic or EU-funded R&D consortia (e.g., PT2030, Horizon Europe).
- Previous involvement in cartridge/device validation with biological systems or organ-on-chip models.
- Exposure to automation platforms, sensor integration, or embedded systems for lab instrumentation.
- Experience setting up small-scale production pipelines or managing outsourcing to specialized fabrication shops.
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across interdisciplinary teams.
- Fluency in English (Portuguese a plus) for smooth coordination across partner institutions.
Location
Porto/Braga, Portugal