Position Summary
The Lab Specialist will support the delivery of the GENS 101 Grand Challenges course by providing technical expertise in mechatronics, robotics, embedded systems, rapid prototyping, and laboratory experimentation. Among other responsibilities, the role involves mentoring student teams during project development, maintaining laboratory equipment, ensuring safe laboratory operations, and supporting faculty during studio sessions.
The successful candidate will help students design, build, test, and troubleshoot engineering prototypes while encouraging independent learning and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
Student & Project Support
- Provide technical guidance for student projects involving robotics, embedded systems, sensors, electronics, and automation.
- Assist students with prototype design, fabrication, assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and system integration.
- Support experimental setup, data acquisition, calibration, and interpretation of results.
- Mentor students in applying the Engineering Design Process and Scientific Method without completing project work on their behalf.
Laboratory Operations
- Prepare laboratories and equipment for teaching activities.
- Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and fabrication machines.
- Manage laboratory inventory, consumables, and equipment maintenance schedules.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and provide equipment training to students.
Faculty Support
- Assist instructors during studio sessions and demonstrations.
- Support the development and testing of new laboratory activities.
- Recommend improvements to laboratory equipment and technical resources.
Education
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or science with knowledge and practical experience relevant to interdisciplinary engineering design, mechatronics, robotics, embedded systems, and prototyping.
- Master's degree is preferred.
Technical Requirements
The successful candidate should have practical experience in:
- Embedded Systems: Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi or similar microcontrollers.
- Robotics & Automation: Sensors, actuators, DC/servo motors, motor drivers, and basic motion control.
- Electronics: Circuit prototyping, soldering, PCB assembly, electronic troubleshooting, and instrumentation.
- Mechanical Design: CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape, or similar)
- Digital Fabrication: 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC machining, and rapid prototyping.
- Programming: Arduino IDE, C/C++, and basic Python.
- Data Acquisition: sensor calibration, data collection.
Desired Experience
- University engineering laboratories or makerspaces.
- Robotics, automation, or embedded systems projects.
- Student design competitions or project-based learning environments.
- Operation of digital fabrication equipment.
Core Competencies
- Fluent in English (IELTS 7+)
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and mentoring abilities.
- Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary student teams.
- Strong organizational and laboratory management skills.
- Commitment to safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Preferred Equipment Experience
Experience with some or all of the following is desirable:
- Arduino and embedded development kits
- Robotics platforms
- Electronic test equipment (multi-meters, oscilloscopes, power supplies)
- Sensors and data acquisition systems
- 3D printers
- Laser cutter and CNC router
- Hand and power tools for prototyping
