Zhefan Chen
Brisbane,Australia
Summary
Motivated Mechanical and Materials Engineering graduate with strong hands-on experience in microfluidic device fabrication, experimental design, data analysis, and CAD modeling. Currently, I am completing a Master of Engineering Science (Management) at The University of Queensland. Experienced working in research laboratories, supporting postgraduate projects, training students, and assisting with high-precision experimental workflows. Skilled in structural detailing, 3D modeling, and engineering problem-solving. Seeking opportunities in R&D, mechanical engineering, biomedical/microfluidic technology, or lab-based engineering roles. Many years of experience working with CAD and related technologies. Identified project needs and productivity impediments, produced designs, and design tools and managed implementation and maintenance of technological solutions. Dedicated to optimizing design protocols through specification accuracy and efficiency. Familiar with industry-standard engineering drawings and highly proficient in converting 3D models into accurate, fully-detailed engineering drawings.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Microfluidics Laboratory Assistant
The University of Queensland
01.2023 - Current
- Managed daily operations of the UQ Microfluidics Laboratory, including equipment calibration, maintenance, and safety compliance.
- Trained undergraduate and postgraduate students on microfluidic device usage, polymer solution preparation, microscopy, and experimental workflows.
- Assisted PhD researchers with experiment execution, data collection, image analysis, and troubleshooting across viscoelastic and inertial microfluidics projects.
- Supported fabrication of microfluidic devices via soft lithography and precision assembly; maintained laboratory inventory and ensured smooth experimental cycles.
- Operated and maintained key equipment: syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps, microscopes, plasma treatment systems, and high-speed imaging setups.
- School of Mechanical & Mining Engineering
Viscoelastic Microfluidics Summer Research Project
The University of Queensland
01.2025 - 02.2025
- Investigated how polymer type (PEO, HA, starch, SiO₂), polymer concentration, flow rates, channel geometry, and particle size affect focusing performance in viscoelastic microfluidic devices.
- Prepared viscoelastic working fluids, ran controlled flow experiments, and analysed particle focusing patterns using microscopy and quantitative image analysis.
- Contributed to optimisation insights for high-throughput particle focusing and microfluidic separation devices.
- Developed strong skills in experimental design, quantitative analysis, and microfluidic device handling.
- Supervisor: Dr Dan Yuan | 30-day approved UQ Work Experience
Store Manager
Hypoxia Lab
11.2022 - 04.2024
- Managed sales operations, customer support, and staff training in a fast-paced retail environment.
Frisbee Coach
Yi Ben Zheng Jing Club
07.2023 - 11.2023
- Delivered beginner training sessions and coordinated club events and communication.
Steel Detailing Intern
Framie Pty Ltd
08.2022 - 11.2022
- Interpreted structural engineering drawings and produced shop drawings and connection details for fabrication.
- Collaborated with factory staff to confirm manufacturing specifications and resolve design inconsistencies.
- Gained practical understanding of steel structures, tolerances, and fabrication processes.
Engineering Translator
Joylong Auto Company
04.2021 - 05.2021
- Translated technical engineering documents (EN CN) ensuring terminological accuracy.
- Summarised complex engineering content for diverse audiences and supported cross-team communication.
Education
Master of Engineering Science - Management
University of Queensland
Brisbane, QLD12.2025
Bachelor of Mechanical & Materials Engineering -
University of Queensland
Brisbane, QLDSkills
- Channel fabrication
- Soft lithography
- Polymer preparation
- Viscoelastic/inertial flows
- Microscopy
- Particle tracking
- Flow control systems
- Siemens NX
- Creo
- Fusion 360
- Autodesk suite
- ANSYS
- Engineering design
- Materials fundamentals
- Structural steel detailing
- Microsoft Office
- Data analysis
- Technical documentation
- Strong communication
- Teamwork
- Experimental design
- Project management
- Team collaboration
Timeline
Viscoelastic Microfluidics Summer Research Project
The University of Queensland
01.2025 - 02.2025
Frisbee Coach
Yi Ben Zheng Jing Club
07.2023 - 11.2023
Microfluidics Laboratory Assistant
The University of Queensland
01.2023 - Current
Store Manager
Hypoxia Lab
11.2022 - 04.2024
Steel Detailing Intern
Framie Pty Ltd
08.2022 - 11.2022
Engineering Translator
Joylong Auto Company
04.2021 - 05.2021
Master of Engineering Science - Management
University of Queensland
Bachelor of Mechanical & Materials Engineering -
University of Queensland