Research Associate in Biomechanics of Spinal Surgery (POLYFIX-DCM Trial) [Fixed-Term]

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Research Associate in Biomechanics of Spinal Surgery (POLYFIX-DCM Trial)

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) is a progressive spinal cord injury treated with decompression surgery. For decompression from the back of the neck, it is unclear whether additional stabilisation with rods improves recovery. The NIHR POLYFIX-DCM trial is the first major study to answer this question.

We are seeking a Research Associate to support a nested mechanistic study within the trial, investigating whether stabilisation reduces mechanical stress on the spinal cord and/or if benefits are confined to specific subgroups. This will involve developing and applying finite element models based on patient imaging and linking predicted stress with MRI markers and clinical outcomes.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop finite element (FE) methods to model spinal cord stress in DCM
• Integrate patient imaging data into FE models
• Compare FE predictions with clinical and MRI outcomes
• Analyse and report findings for clinical and scientific audiences
• Present research at conferences and publish results

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date is the 30th of September 2025.

The interview date is to be confirmed.

For information about how your personal data is used as an applicant, please see the section on Applicant Data (https://www.hr.admin.cam.ac.uk/hr-staff/hr-data/applicant-data) on our HR web pages.

Please quote reference RC47301 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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