The ADA Forsyth Institute is a top-tier, NIH-funded nonprofit research institute focusing on dental and craniofacial exploration, the connection between oral and overall health, and playing a convening role in oral health innovation. Founded in 1910 as the Forsyth Dental Infirmary for Children and later known as the Forsyth Dental Center and then The Forsyth Institute, the organization has played a key role in advancing dental care. In October 2023, Forsyth integrated with the American Dental Association. ADA Forsyth powers the dental profession through cutting-edge basic research, creative translational science, and development of new technology. Consistent with ADA Forsyth’s founding mission, the ForsythKids mobile dental program continues to serve children in need. The institute is located in a purpose-built, LEED Platinum-certified facility in Somerville, MA, within the Boston biomedical innovation hub, and collaborates closely with neighboring biotechnology companies and universities to develop cutting-edge solutions to advance oral and overall health.   

Summary/Objective

ADA Forsyth Institute recently announced an exciting collaboration focused on creating a rapid, low-cost molecular detection platform for oral pathogens using next-generation CRISPR-Cas and synthetic biology technologies. We are seeking a highly motivated bioengineer with specialized expertise in microfluidics and/or optical detection systems to lead the design, prototyping, and integration of a point-of-care diagnostic device incorporating CRISPR-based assays. This role is strongly engineering-focused, with primary responsibility for developing microfluidic architectures and fluid handling systems, and/or designing and optimizing optical detection modules (e.g., fluorescence-based systems). The successful candidate will drive device innovation and integration, working closely with assay scientists to ensure seamless incorporation of CRISPR chemistry into the platform. While familiarity with molecular biology is beneficial, the core focus is advancing microfluidic and/or optical system performance from prototype to functional diagnostic device. This position offers the opportunity to join a fast-paced, start-up-like team developing innovative synthetic biology and bioengineering-based diagnostic technologies aimed at improving oral health worldwide. We offer competitive salary and benefits aligned with the biotech industry. 

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and optimize microfluidic systems and fluid handling architectures 
• Develop and implement optical detection modules, including fluorescence-based sensing systems 
• Integrate microfluidics, optics, electronics, and assay chemistry into a cohesive device platform 
• Collaborate with molecular biology teams to adapt assays for compatibility with microfluidic and optical systems 
• Troubleshoot challenges related to fluid dynamics, signal detection, system integration 
• Analyze experimental data and communicate findings clearly and effectively 

Basic Qualifications    

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering with 2–3 years of relevant industry experience; or 
• Master’s degree in a related engineering discipline; or 
• Equivalent combination of education and experience 

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in microfluidic device design, fabrication, and optimization and/or optical detection system development especially fluorescence-based sensing, imaging, or photometric measurement systems
• Familiarity with point-of-care diagnostic platforms, including compact instrument design, usability, robustness, and fast turnaround workflows
• Knowledge of microfluidic cartridge or chip-based systems, including sample handling, alignment, sealing, flow control, and manufacturability considerations
• Experience translating early prototypes into reliable, scalable product designs suitable for manufacturing and field use
• Ability to work closely with biochemistry, assay development, microfluidics, and software teams to co-optimize instrument performance with assay requirements.
• Experience troubleshooting system-level issues where hardware, optics, fluidics, and assay chemistry interact
• Strong CAD (e.g., SolidWorks) and hardware development skills, with experience selecting components, building prototypes, and managing external vendors or manufacturing partners

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R for data analysis and automation 
• Understanding of regulated medical device development and design controls, verification/validation, risk management
• Experience integrating biochemical or molecular diagnostic assays into engineered platforms 
• Familiarity with CRISPR-based detection systems or nucleic acid amplification technologies 
• Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, DNA purification)  

How to Apply

Apply via the job posting. Questions relating to the position should be directed to bbor@forsyth.org