Research Assistant

Job Description:

The School of Engineering at Brown University has a new and exciting opportunity to hire a Research Assistant.

The Research assistant will support the Health Innovation Technology Sandbox (HITS) in the Brown University School of Engineering.  The incumbent will work on the design, fabrication, and testing of wearable health monitoring sensors, including those using photoplethysmography (PPG), kinematic sensors, and AI enhanced sensors. Daily tasks include:  performing optical experiments, electronics development, signal processing, data analysis, presenting results regularly at lab meetings and working jointly with other lab members on development of an equitable pulse oximeter. Position will also assist with on-going clinical studies.   

This is a full-time, fixed term position for one year, but is eligible for extension with secured external funding.

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance.

The successful candidate, as a minimum, should have the following background: 

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and one to two years’ experience or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

Experience gained as an undergraduate working in an optics lab is highly preferred.

Job Competencies

• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal with a professional demeanor in all communications, including but not limited to emails, reports, meetings and presentations.
• The candidate must produce quality work that prioritizes accuracy and thoroughness.
• Treats co-workers with respect, honesty, and fairness. Resolves issues effectively and is viewed as a positive team member and/or colleague.
• Ability to work independently and implement short- and long-term goals independently, but also as a strong team member when the situation warrants.
• Demonstrated mastery of MS/Office, matlab
• Demonstrated ability to support a community of diverse perspectives and cultures in an inclusive environment. 
• Incumbent must be highly professional and able to interact successfully with individuals at all levels.
• Travel may be required for assisting in field research.
• Occasional presentations of research findings to internal and external collaborators may

be required.

Please submit a cover letter, specifying which position you are applying to and a resume with your application.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

For current information on Brown's vaccine requirements and other community health matters, please refer to the Healthy Brown website.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance, summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package, including time off and annual paid holidays. Benefit offerings include health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more. 

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-08-27

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

School of Engineering

Grade:

Grade 8

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite

 

Submission Guidelines:

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.  

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.