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:
Job Title: R&D Engineer
Department: Research & Development
Location: Cambridge
Employment Type: Full Time
About the Role
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.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Development
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.
Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
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.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
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.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
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.
At Least One of the Following Is Required
Electronics
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.
Fluidics
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.
Desirable
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