R&D Engineer

I'm currently working with a pioneering life sciences company that focused on revolutionising the development and manufacturing RNA-based medicines, vaccines, and therapeutics. They are searching for an R&D Engineer to join their ranks, please see JD:

Department: Research & Development
Location: Cambridge
Employment Type: Full Time

This organisation is developing advanced, digitally enabled platforms for high-precision scientific and bioprocessing applications. As an R&D Engineer, you will play a key role in developing, optimising, and troubleshooting the hardware systems that enable automated laboratory and manufacturing workflows.

This role combines mechanical engineering, hands-on troubleshooting, and applied scientific awareness, ideal for someone who enjoys building, testing, and refining complex systems.

• Design, assemble, modify, and maintain mechanical components within automated or semi-automated scientific systems.
• Assist with integrating sensors, actuators, and feedback systems into automated workflows.
• Participate in rapid prototyping, iterative development cycles, and hardware performance testing.

• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues in prototype and pre-production instruments.
• Apply structured engineering methods to identify root causes and develop robust improvements.
• Use measurement tools, diagnostic equipment, and test setups to verify functionality and performance.

• Contribute ideas for next-generation platform features and system enhancements.
• Support improvements in reliability, manufacturability, and user experience.
• Participate in engineering optimisation experiments and evaluation studies.

• Strong mechanical engineering skills, including assembly, test, and hands-on troubleshooting.
• Ability to work analytically and methodically in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.
• Strong documentation and reporting skills for technical investigations and development work.

• Experience with Arduino, microcontrollers, or embedded systems.
• Ability to work with C#, Arduino IDE, Kaizen, or similar tools for instrument or device control.
• Understanding of sensors, actuators, signal routing, or PCB-level interfaces.

• Experience working with pumps, valves, tubing systems, flow control, or microfluidics.
• Understanding of fluid handling hardware used in scientific or automated systems.
• Ability to diagnose flow, pressure, or component-performance issues.

• Background in life sciences, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, or experience supporting laboratory or biological workflows.
• Experience with automated lab instruments, scientific instrumentation, or integrated hardware/software systems.
• Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) or electronics design tools.
• Knowledge of regulated laboratory environments (ISO, GMP, or similar).

If this opportunity is of interest, please send your updated CV.