About this role
About Terrestrial Bio, Inc.
Terrestrial is transforming the delivery of next-generation therapies, starting with GLP-1.
Terrestrial's proprietary Tacterra™ microarray patch (MAP) and applicator platform consists of a patch resembling an adhesive bandage, which is applied with a preloaded applicator and removed after a few minutes. Once applied, each patch delivers bioactive tips into the skin, which dissolve quickly into the body, rapidly releasing their therapeutic payload. Designed for self-administration, the temperature-stable Tacterra™ platform enables precise, controlled delivery of a wide range of therapeutics without medical sharps or refrigeration.
Terrestrial has generated strong clinical and in-vivo proof of concept across multiple molecules. For more information, visit www.terrestrialbio.com.
Why this role
We are seeking a talented, collaborative, and highly motivated individual with hands-on experience in mechanical testing and QC laboratory operations to join our core team of scientists and engineers. The Research Associate/Quality Engineer will be responsible for performing mechanical testing of materials and components using instruments such as Instron, or equivalent force-measurement systems.
This role will support tensile, compression, shear, puncture, and force displacement characterization to ensure product performance, robustness, and compliance with internal quality standards. In addition, the individual will contribute to method development, qualification activities, and routine QC release testing to support clinical and commercial manufacturing programs.
This is a unique opportunity to be part of an emerging early-phase clinical company bringing innovative technology to the global market.
What you'll do
Perform mechanical testing of materials, components, and finished MAP products using Instron, or comparable systems, including tensile, compression, shear, puncture, and force displacement profiling
Conduct high-resolution surface metrology and dimensional inspection of manufacturing mold and other components using Sensofar 3D optical profilometry systems
Develop, optimize, and maintain mechanical test methods to support product characterization, comparability studies, and design verification/validation activities
Execute routine QC mechanical release testing aligned with cGMP expectations and data integrity standards
Troubleshoot mechanical testing issues, support instrumentation maintenance, and ensure proper calibration and documentation
Analyze mechanical test data, prepare technical reports, and document all activities in audit-ready laboratory records
Independently author method SOPs, analytical protocols, and technical reports, and contribute to regulatory submissions
Assist in broader QC testing efforts as needed, including support for analytical, functional, and stability assays
Collaborate cross-functionally with QC, Analytical Development, Process Development, Manufacturing, and Regulatory teams to enable program success across phases
Who you are
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline; 1–3 years of relevant mechanical testing or QC experience, or a master’s degree with applicable laboratory experience
Hands-on experience with mechanical testing instruments such as Instron, Texture Analyzer, or equivalent force-measurement systems
Demonstrated proficiency in tensile, compression, shear, puncture, and force–displacement mechanical characterization
Experience developing, optimizing, and/or qualifying mechanical test methods for materials, components, or finished products
Experience supporting QC release testing, method qualification, method transfer, or equipment qualification
Familiarity with GMP, GLP, or ISO 17025 laboratory environments and strong understanding of data integrity (ALCOA+)
Ability to analyze mechanical test data, generate clear technical reports, and maintain accurate documentation
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple workflows and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and comfort working within interdisciplinary teams
Compensation: The anticipated base salary range for this position is $65,000 - $85,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including experience, qualifications, and internal equity.
Onsite expectations: The majority of our roles at Terrestrial are onsite, which allows us to meet both business and team needs. Candidates applying must be willing to be onsite 4-5 days per week.
Location: Woburn, MA and our new, custom facility in Allston MA planned for Q4 of 2026.
At Terrestrial, we’re bringing together exceptional talent to drive our product development forward. We value collaboration, curiosity, and a dynamic work environment. We aim to recruit, employ, train, compensate and promote regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status.