Research Assistant in Musculoskeletal Biomechanics

Do you have a strong technical background in experimental biomechanics with an interest in musculoskeletal joints? Would you like to work as part of a multidisciplinary institute to address a clinically driven challenge?    

We are looking for a proactive individual to join our team of researchers at the institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, to support our vision to improve the quality of life of an ageing population.  

This role will support two projects that are focussed on new surgical interventions for the knee and spine. In the UK, over five million people have osteoarthritis of their knee, while four out of five adults will suffer from back pain during their lifetime. We are investigating a range of new surgical interventions for the knee and intervertebral discs of the spine, that aim to prevent or delay the need for total knee replacement or spinal fusion surgery. We have developed methods to evaluate the treatments in the laboratory using cadaveric tissue, and in computer models using 3D imaging and finite element analysis. 

This project will involve using image processing methods to evaluate specimens tested in the laboratory, in some cases building finite element models of the tissue to perform further analysis. You will join a wider group developing in vitro and in silico preclinical models of musculoskeletal joints. You will have a strong background in image analysis and finite element modelling and have a proactive approach to working in an experimental and computational environment. You will join an institute that includes different expertise and substantial experience in supporting early-stage researchers in a key phase of their career. We encourage an environment of collaboration, trust and wellbeing, which values difference of ideas and embraces diversity. 

This role will be based at the university of Leeds campus and there is scope for it to be undertaken in a hybrid manner. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: 

Professor Ruth Wilcox, Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Email: R.K.Wilcox@leeds.ac.uk

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role may only be suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants if they are eligible for salary concessions. For more information, please visit the Government’s Skilled Worker visa page. 

For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information, please visit the Government’s page, Apply for the Global Talent visa.

What we offer in return

26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance. Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!  

Closing Date: 17 Apr 2025

Section: Research

Salary: £32,546 to £38,249 p.a.