• Job profile: POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE
• Organisation: DURHAM UNIVERSITY
• Apply before: 13-07-2026
• Hours per week: 35 pw
• Contract duration: 21 months
• Annual gross salary: £38,784 to £39,906 per annum

Introduction

The Department of Engineering at Durham University is recognised as being one of the very best in the UK. In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise of 2021, the Department had 95% of publications rated as 3*/4*, and all impact case studies graded 3*/4*. The Department demonstrates significant depth of research excellence across a range of disciplines, with activities that are currently concentrated around three Research Challenges (Sustainable Infrastructure, Future Energy Systems and Advanced Materials, Electronics and Communications) and eight Research Nodes which group staff under technical expertise and interest (see https://www.durham.ac.uk/departments/academic/engineering/research/).

We are particularly proud of the collaborative interdisciplinary nature of our research, which also includes strong industrial partnerships. The strategic vision for the Department includes a major growth over the next five years, with a significant enhancement of the research challenge portfolio and a drive to enrich our undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research provision.

We are a scholarly community that is open, supportive, collegiate, representative and diverse: our commitment to this is expressed through the work of the Department’s Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Committee, and our Athena Swan Silver Award.

Job Description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position in Bioengineering at Durham University. We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with a strong background and experience in biomechanics, finite element modelling (FEM), medical image processing, additive manufacturing (AM). The project will be carried out in close collaboration with Alma Mater Bologna and Great Ormond Street Hospital and is funded by the Academy of Medical Science. This post is fixed term for 21 months from 1/10/26 and will end on 30/6/28. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1/10/26.

The project, “Biomechanical Design Of Patient Specific Fixation Methods For Mandibular Reconstruction Surgery aims at designing patient specific mandibular fixation methods (miniplates, reconstruction plantes) This project will investigate the possibility of tuning the shape and mechanical properties of the implanted device using additive manufacturing, to target the patient’s specific condition and obtain an optimal long term outcome. FEM coupled with Design of Experiment (DoE) will guide the design of miniplates. Ad-hoc tuning of published mechanobiological models of bone healing will help create a robust model, able to predict long term surgical outcomes in patient specific cases. The results of the validated model will provide insight into the performance of different fixation methods and their suitability for patient-specific mandibular reconstruction. A protocol for the creation of patient specific personalised mini-plates, manufacturable using metal AM, will be designed and experimentally validated.

Key responsibilities:

• To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
• To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
• To publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder.
• To assist with the development of research objectives and proposals.
• To conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder.
• To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate.
• To be involved in student supervision, as appropriate, and assist with the assessment of the knowledge of students.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by participation in the undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programmes or by membership of departmental committees, etc. and by attending relevant training and development courses.   
• Desire to work in and with a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.

Working at Durham 

• A competitive salary is only one part of the many fantastic benefits you will receive if you join the University:
• You’ll receive 30 days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year – a total of 42 days per year. The University closes between Christmas and New Year.
• We offer a generous pension scheme, and as a new member of staff you will be automatically enrolled into the University Superannuation Scheme (USS).
• No matter how you travel to work, we have you covered.  We have ample parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme which helps you to buy a bike and discount with local bus and train companies. You can also take advantage of our cost-effective and environmentally friendly Tusker Car Benefit Scheme, allowing you to lease a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle with savings on tax and National Insurance.
• We have a genuine commitment to developing our colleagues professionally and personally. There is a comprehensive range of development courses, apprenticeships and access to qualifications and routes to develop your career in the University.  All staff have dedicated annual time to concentrate on their personal development opportunities.
• We provide wide-ranging health and wellbeing support including discounted membership for our state-of-the-art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Our on-site nursery is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and you can access holiday camps for children aged 5-16.
• Our family-friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, are among the most generous in the higher education sector (and likely above and beyond many employers).
• We offer all staff the opportunity to take part in volunteering activities to make a difference in the local community.
• You can access exclusive discounts via our benefits portal including money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products such as Apple, eating out and days out at various attractions.
• Various salary sacrifice schemes are also available to help you take advantage of tax savings on benefits.
•  If you are moving to Durham, you may be eligible for help with removal costs, and we have a dedicated team who can help you with the practicalities such as house hunting and schools.  If you need a visa, we cover most visa costs and offer an interest-free loan scheme to pay for dependant visas.

Contact Information 

• Department contact for academic-related enquiries: Dr Alessandro Borghi: alessandro.borghi@durham.ac.uk
• Contact information for technical difficulties when submitting your application:

If you encounter technical difficulties when using the online application form, we prefer you send enquiries by email. Please send your name along with a brief description of the problem you’re experiencing to e.recruitment@durham.ac.uk 

• Alternatively, you may call 0191 334 6801 from the UK, or +44 191 334 6801 from outside the UK. This number operates during the hours of 09.00 and 17.00 Monday to Friday, UK time. We will normally respond within one working day (Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays).  

Apply here 

or here

Submitting your application 

We prefer to receive applications online. We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates.

Want to join us in developing the next generation of orthopaedic implants for bone cancer and trauma patients?

This project aims to characterise the mechanical properties of the bone-implant at different stages of bone ingrowth, so as to inform orthopaedic implant design to achieve improved long-term clinical outcomes for patients. We are looking for someone with a PhD in mechanical engineering or bioengineering, strong expertise in mechanical testing of bone or biomaterials or composites and experience with microCT imaging. Experience with in situ mechanical testing and digital volume correlation will be an advantage. 

This is a 2 year post based at Insigneo Institute, University of Sheffield, UK, that includes a placement at an orthopaedic implant manufacturer, with a salary of around £38 – 41k. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr Vee San Cheong and Prof Enrico Dall’Ara. It’s a great opportunity for someone who wants to work at the intersection of academia, industry and preclinical testing.

https://jobsite.sheffield.ac.uk/job/Sheffield-Research-Associate-in-Experimental-Bone-Biomechanics/1777-en_GB

Postdoc Position 1: Computational Biofabrication
Research Focus:
You will contribute to the design and optimization of 3D-printed biomaterial scaffolds using advanced computational approaches. Your role will be central in building mathematical models of scaffold architecture and function, and applying machine learning and evolutionary algorithms to guide the automated generation of novel scaffold designs. This project will include both in silico work (modeling, software development) and experimental validation (fabrication and mechanical/structural characterization of scaffolds).

Postdoc Position 2: Stem Cell Bioengineering
Research Focus:
This position centers around developing and optimizing 3D culture systems for human iPSCs and organoids in combination with engineered scaffolds. You will be responsible for setting up cell culture protocols, performing biological assays, and working closely with materials scientists to integrate cells into biofabricated environments for organoid development and disease modeling.

Two Postdoctoral Positions in Biofabrication at the MERLN Institute – CTR Department Job Details | Maastricht University

Two Postdoctoral Positions in Biofabrication at the MERLN Institute – CTR Department — Maastricht University (UM) — AcademicTransfer

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4267183154

YOUR TASKS:

• Independent research activities in the Division of Biomechanics
• Submission of third-party funding applications
• Intensifying clinical research and expanding the scientific network
• Supervision of Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students
• Teaching and assistance with administrative tasks
• Support for the head of division
• Participation in scientific conferences

YOUR PROFILE:

• Completion of an appropriate doctorate (e.g. mechanical engineering, physics, biomedical engineering, etc.) 
• In-depth knowledge of biomechanical measurement technology (material and/or implant testing) 
• Adequate track record of publications in scientific journals and conference contributions 
• Experience with clinical research, medical imaging (CT or MRI), additive manufacturing and/or programming 
• Good written and spoken German and very good written and spoken English 
• Structured way of working with a professional attitude

YOUR PERSPECTIVE:

You can expect a challenging job in an internationally visible and highly motivated team -we offer flexible working hours, home office options, a paid lunch break, health care and many other benefits . The Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences is dedicated to achieving a balanced mix of male and female academic and non-academic staff. Consequently, applications from female candidates are particularly encouraged. People with disabilities who meet the required qualification criteria are expressly invited to apply and are given special consideration.

Further details: https://www.kl.ac.at/de/wissenschaftlicher-mitarbeiterin-postdoc-fachbereich-biomechanik-30-stunden

APPLICATION:

Applications should include a motivation letter, curriculum vitae and credentials. Please apply online at www.kl.ac.at/karriere with reference to the number “2518” by August 24, 2025 at the latest.

Objectives
Myopia is a growing public health threat. By 2050, approx. 4.7 billion people, i.e. more than 50% of the world’s population is expected to suffer from myopia, up from 2.8 billion today. It affects vision quality, increases the risk of eye diseases such as glaucoma or retina delamination, and reduces quality of life. Up to one billion people will be high myopes (superior to -5 Diopters) by 2050, risking blindness.
As a partner of the PREMYOM project, the MΞDISIM team at École Polytechnique and Inria, in close collaboration with clinicians from Rotschild AP-HP Hospital and Essilor company, will develop biomechanical models of the full eye to understand the difference between normal and myopic eyes. We have already started, in an on-going PhD project, to implement models of the different sub-parts of the eyes needed to predict its motion (cornea, sclera, muscle, optic nerve, and so on) on an existing geometry of a normal adult eye. Through the PREMYOM project, we aim now at using patient-specific geometries, from normal and myopic children’s eyes.
More precisely, the project concerns the processing of MRI and OCT images of volunteers of a cohort at Rotschild AP-HP hospital. These volunteers will do high resolution MRI images at rest, and lower resolution images of turned eyes (looking to the left and the right). These images will be completed by OCT images, which give higher resolutions on some regions of the sclera or of the retina. We would like to have a pipeline to extract the different regions of the eyes (muscle, sclera…), and obtain meshes which can be assembled to be used in our model of biomechanical motions. To do so, developments are required to create an automatized pipe-line of feature extractions and meshing, and to couple them with the biomechanical model.
This work will be done in close collaboration with a PhD student and a Post-doc working on the biomechanical model of the eye.

Keywords:
Eye Biomechanics; Image-based Modeling; Finite Element Method; Data assimilation; Machine learning/AI

Candidate profile 
We are looking for a postdoc. The funding is for 2 years, but could be further extended for 3 years. The candidate will have a fair understanding of image processing, and of numerical methods. He/She will be at ease with computational pipelines, and also will have an interest for interacting with clinical and industrial collaborators.

Work environment
The work will take place within the Solid Mechanics Laboratory, on the Ecole Polytechnique campus. It will be supervised by Jean-Marc Allain. It can start as soon as possible.

Contact 
jean-marc.allain@polytechnique.edu

1) Postdoc on Experimental Bone Biomechanics 
-> project: “ChildBone: A novel digital twin to assess bone strength in children”
-> line manager: Prof Enrico Dall’Ara
-> start: September 2025 (or until November 2025)
-> Duration:  34 months
-> Position open to international researchers
-> Application deadline: 30/06/2025
-> link with details and application: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DNI385/research-associate-in-experimental-bone-biomechanics-dallara

2) Postdoc on Computational Bone Biomechanics
-> project: “ChildBone: A novel digital twin to assess bone strength in children”
-> line manager: Dr Xinshan Li
-> start: September 2025 (or until November 2025)
-> Duration:  34 months
-> Position open to international researchers
-> Application deadline: 30/06/2025
-> link with details and application: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DNI384/research-associate-in-computational-bone-biomechanics

deadline 11^th July 2024

The University of Glasgow is offering a unique opportunity for a Research Associate to make a leading contribution to the Centre for Future Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Planning.  The vision of the Centre is to develop novel and robust mathematical and statistical methodologies, supported by large clinical data sets, to create computational tools for optimisation of cardiovascular procedures. Based within the James Watt School of Engineering, you will work closely with colleagues from Mathematics & Statistics, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health and Politecnico di Torino, as well as several leading international clinical centres and medical devices/imaging companies. 

You will work on the development of a range of mathematical models and their numerical solution, covering areas including patient geometry reconstruction, fluid-structure interaction, soft tissue mechanics, growth and remodelling and multiphysics modelling. You should have a PhD, or have equivalent experience, in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Computational Engineering, or a related discipline. You should have theoretical and practical knowledge of building multiphysics mathematical models and numerically solving them. Experience in patient geometry reconstruction from medical imaging, soft tissue mechanics and fluid-structure interaction modelling would be desirable.

You will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project, as opportunities allow.

For more details on the vacancy (147648) and to apply,  please visit the university webpage here: https://my.corehr.com/pls/uogrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=147648

Informal enquiries about the role are welcomed, and should be addressed to Dr Sean McGinty, sean.mcginty@glasgow.ac.uk