Bioprinting Microscopist

Role overview

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is looking for a Bioprinting Microscopist to support the development of measurement science for high-resolution bioprinting. This position contributes to national standards work and helps drive innovation in emerging technologies.

The appointment is made under direct-hire authority, which NIST uses to bring in talent for occupations where it is facing a significant shortage of qualified candidates.

What you will do

• Contribute to a research program focused on microscopic measurement and modeling of bioprinting materials.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify new opportunities for microscopic measurement in bioprinting and related areas.
• Share research results through presentations, journal articles, and recurring discussions with industry partners.

Qualification details

Applicants must satisfy the engineering basic requirement through one of the accepted education or experience pathways. An engineering degree is expected, and acceptable programs generally include ABET-accredited engineering curricula or a related background that provides strong grounding in physical and mathematical sciences, including calculus and advanced coursework in several core engineering science areas such as statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, electronics, optics, heat transfer, or comparable subjects.

Alternative routes may include a combination of education and experience, professional engineering registration or licensure, a passing result on the Fundamentals of Engineering exam or another required licensure test, specified engineering science coursework, or a related scientific curriculum paired with at least one year of professional engineering experience under supervision.

In addition to the basic engineering requirement, candidates must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level (or ZP-II at NIST). This experience should include microscopic characterization of precision-manufactured hydrogel materials, hydrogel formulation, and 3D printing of hydrogel materials.

A master’s degree or an equivalent graduate degree may also meet the specialized qualification requirement, as can a qualifying combination of education and experience.

Both paid and unpaid experience may count, including volunteer work with national service programs or community, professional, religious, spiritual, philanthropic, or student organizations, provided it demonstrates relevant competencies. Qualification standards follow the U.S. Office of Personnel Management handbook. Requests for reconsideration of qualification determinations should be directed to the applicant reconsideration process.

Additional information

This notice emphasizes that the role is part of NIST’s effort to recruit for a difficult-to-fill occupation. The job is centered on research, standards development, and communication with collaborators in the bioprinting field.

Eligibility and application notes

Applicants should be able to demonstrate the required engineering background and the specified specialized experience, or meet the degree-based or combination-of-education-and-experience alternatives described above. Experience gained through volunteer service may be counted if it is relevant.