Research Assistant or Associate in Robotic Biomechanical Testing of the Shoulder

About the role:

Shoulder pain and dysfunction place a significant burden on healthcare systems, and despite advances in surgery and arthroplasty, outcomes remain variable. The ENGIN Shoulder project addresses these challenges using in vivo dynamic biplane X-ray imaging, musculoskeletal modelling, and robot-driven cadaveric testing.

We are seeking a researcher to join this major EPSRC-funded project to help develop an integrated engineering pipeline for understanding and improving shoulder joint function. You will collaborate with colleagues at Imperial College London, Cardiff University, and international partners.

In this role, you will lead in vitro robotic testing of cadaveric shoulders within a multidisciplinary programme combining imaging, computational modelling, and experimental biomechanics. Your work will contribute to improving understanding of shoulder function in health, instability, and joint replacement, addressing key challenges in predicting patient outcomes.

You will work closely with researchers, clinicians, and collaborators across institutions to support the development of innovative treatments, rehabilitation strategies, and surgical approaches.

What you would be doing:

You will design and conduct robotic-driven testing of cadaveric shoulder joints, including specimens with orthopaedic implants. Using advanced robotic systems, you will simulate realistic joint motion by precisely controlling rotations, translations, forces, and moments.

You will investigate the mechanical function of shoulder tissues through sequential resection studies, enabling quantification of the role and properties of individual structures. Your work will address clinically relevant challenges, including optimising surgical procedures following shoulder replacement and supporting decision-making between surgical and non-surgical treatments.

You will also contribute to setting up and programming robotic systems to replicate physiological joint motion and loading, applying principles of kinematics, dynamics, and geometric transformations.

What we are looking for:

• A PhD (or near completion) in Mechanical or Medical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in laboratory testing within the musculoskeletal field using cadaver models.
• Knowledge of geometric transformations, kinematics, dynamics, and Jacobian operators.
• A track record of publications (or papers in preparation) and experience presenting at conferences.
• Experience with Python or similar programming tools.

We also welcome applications from candidates interested in pursuing a PhD in Biomechanics alongside the role. For this route:

• A first-class degree in a relevant field with strong mechanics knowledge is required.
• A genuine interest in completing a PhD in robotic biomechanical testing is essential. 

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to contribute to a major international research project with partners in the Netherlands and the United States.
• Close collaboration with leading research groups in biomechanics, bioengineering, and clinical practice, including shoulder surgeons.
• A chance to develop your career at a world-leading institution.
• Access to dedicated researcher career development and progression opportunities.
• A competitive salary and benefits package, including 41 days of annual leave and a generous pension scheme.
• A diverse, inclusive, and collaborative working environment with strong wellbeing support.

Further Information (College website only)

This position is fixed term and is expected to run for up to 3 years in the first instance.  

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Ulrich Hansen – u.hansen@imperial.ac.uk.                                                                

In person attendance is required 5 days per week, as per the needs of the role

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