Description:
We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join RADlab (www.radlab-oxford.com) at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by UKRI and is fixed-term to 31st May 2028.
You will develop wearable robotic devices that deliver assistive forces and joint torques, with a particular focus on upper-body movement. The research will combine soft robotic actuation, device fabrication and experimental biomechanics.
You Will Be Responsible For
- Designing and fabricating wearable soft robotic devices that provide mechanical assistance during upper-body movements.
- Developing experimental protocols to characterise actuator force, joint assistance, range of motion and the transfer of loads between the device and the body.
- Evaluating and optimising device performance, repeatability, durability and comfort through mechanical testing and human movement measurements.
- Collaborating with researchers in biomechanical modelling and robotics to translate experimental findings into improved designs.
You Should Possess
- A PhD, or be near completion of a PhD, in Engineering, Biomechanics, Robotics or a closely related discipline.
- Experience in experimental biomechanics, preferably involving the upper body, including the shoulder, arm or trunk.
- Strong practical expertise in the design, fabrication and testing of robotic devices, including relevant techniques such as moulding, casting, additive manufacturing or textile fabrication.
- Research experience in soft robotics, wearable robotics or exoskeletons. Experience with rigid or hybrid exoskeletons is also relevant.
- Experience in actuator characterisation, instrumentation and data acquisition, with proficiency in Python or MATLAB for experimental data analysis.
- A record of peer-reviewed publications appropriate to your career stage, strong communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively to meet research milestones.