Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Biomechanical Modelling and Wearable Robotics
Develop advanced musculoskeletal models to optimize the design and control of assistive wearable robots at the University of Oxford.
Best for:Best for biomechanics and robotics researchers with strong computational modeling skills and experience in human movement simulation.
Overview
The University of Oxford is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join RADlab within the Department of Engineering Science. Funded by UKRI, this fixed-term position involves creating computational models and simulations to understand how wearable robots affect human movement, muscle activity, and joint loading. The successful candidate will work closely with experimental researchers to refine soft and hybrid assistive devices. Applicants are expected to hold or be near completion of a PhD in a relevant technical or engineering discipline and bring strong simulation expertise.
What you'll do
- Develop detailed musculoskeletal models of human movement to predict muscle forces, joint loads, and the impact of robotic assistance.
- Simulate human-robot interactions to evaluate force, torque, and timing requirements for upper-body tasks and gait cycles.
- Utilize simulation and optimization techniques to guide actuator placement, device geometry, and control strategies for soft actuators.
- Collaborate directly with experimental researchers to validate computational models against motion, force, and EMG measurements.
- Contribute to iterative device designs and meet key research milestones within the RADlab group.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Engineering, Biomechanics, Robotics, Computational Mechanics or a closely related discipline
Language: English
Instruction: English
Publications: A record of peer-reviewed publications appropriate to your career stage
- Research experience in musculoskeletal modelling or the simulation of human movement
- Strong understanding of human movement mechanics, inverse dynamics, and muscle recruitment
- Proficiency in modeling tools such as OpenSim or AnyBody
- Programming and numerical analysis skills in Python or MATLAB
- Experience in wearable robotics, soft robotics, exoskeletons, or human-robot interaction
- Must hold or be near completion of a PhD
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-02
Submit your application online through the University of Oxford recruitment portal before the specified deadline. Ensure you upload all requested supporting documentation, including a cover letter, CV, and referee details.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research statement
- 2 reference letters
Contact
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