About Joshua Hauser
Who I am
I’m a biologist, designer, and problem solver with expertise in lab research, 3D design, and physical prototyping. I thrive in interdisciplinary research settings and offer flexible, fractional R&D support for startups and scale-ups. My approach combines scientific rigor with rapid prototyping, making it possible to adapt to the unique needs of each project.
Why I Work with Startups and Scale-ups
I’m inspired by the pace and creativity of startups and scale-ups, and I thrive on projects that push boundaries and create meaningful change. I’m drawn to dynamic, interdisciplinary environments where ideas move quickly from concept to product, and I use my flexible skill set to help ambitious teams tackle challenges and grow.
My Approach
Curiosity at the Core
Curiosity drives everything I do. My interdisciplinary background is the result of a wide-ranging interest in how things work and how they can work better. I look for answers in many places — but especially in nature — and draw from multiple fields to develop innovative solutions.
Methodology: Flexible and Precise
My approach to problem-solving is a blend of careful scientific research and iterative prototyping. From my lab experience, I bring the ability to break down a problem into testable questions, plan detailed experiments, and execute them with precision. From rapid prototyping, I bring the ability to design, build, and test solutions quickly, iterating toward a viable product.
I’m comfortable shifting between these two modes depending on what the project requires. I can run detailed experimentation for publication or certification, or take a more agile, MVP-focused approach to get a functional prototype into the world. Both approaches are grounded in meticulous documentation and strong attention to detail.
Recent work includes designing and building a novel research tool for plant science. Starting from a short conceptual brief, I reviewed the literature, created design options, built and tested multiple prototypes, and delivered a functional system that is now the basis of a forthcoming first-author publication.
The project demanded more than technical skill: I designed hardware, software, and experiments from scratch, met a strict deadline through prioritization, focus, and long hours and did all of this in a field of study with which I had no previous affiliation. It was a crash course in combining creativity, adaptability, and dedication — qualities I bring to every project I take on.
Education
B.A. in Biology, Carleton College — Developed a broad foundation in the life sciences, from molecular biology to ecology. Alongside technical lab and research skills, I strengthened my critical thinking and communication abilities through interdisciplinary coursework, collaborative projects, and scientific writing.
M.Sc. Bio Inspired Innovation, Utrecht University — Completed coursework in scientific research, design thinking, and entrepreneurship, with a focus on translating biological principles into innovative applications. My 9-month thesis centered on creating a new scientific research tool, giving me hands-on experience in prototyping and innovation. I also completed 6 months of business and management coursework.
Let’s Build Something New
If you’re working on an innovative project and need flexible, creative R&D support, I’d love to connect!