Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Applications will be reviewed shortly after the closing date and it is expected that interviews will be conducted in November 2024. The successful candidate would ideally start by February 2025.

Appointments will be subject to satisfactory completion of a six-month probationary period.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the Device Materials Group with Professor Sohini Kar-Narayan in the Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy. The role will involve the design, fabrication and testing of 4d-printed actuators and self-powered triboelectric sensors for soft robotic applications.

The successful candidate will help support the work of Prof. Kar-Narayan in the area of 3d printed biomedical devices, and the role will involv 

•  the design, fabrication and calibration of soft actuators, electrical and mechanical characterization of triboelectric sensors, design and modification of experimental setups as required;
•  3d printing of soft robotic parts, including fabrication and characterization of bespoke resins, and mechanical characterization of 3d printed parts;
•  assembly of sensor-loaded biomedical actuator devices, including full mechanical and electrical characterization of integrated devices;
•  nanoscale characterisation via advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques;
•  management of health and safety documentation relevant to the project;
•  documentation of design processes and fabrication procedures.

The post-holder will be expected to work under their own initiative for most of their daily duties and also to troubleshoot and resolve any issues they encounter. The post-holder will also be expected to interact with other members of the research group, as well as industrial partners and manufacturers.

Applicants should hold a PhD degree in an appropriate field such as Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering. Experience with soft robotic device development and electromechanical characterisation essential.

The candidate must be proficient in the use of mechanical testing, SLA 3D printing, aerosol-jet printing, electrochemistry, scanning probe microscopy and materials characterisation techniques. The candidate must have great attention to detail and excellent record keeping and communication skills. Good interpersonal skills as well as the ability to communicate their work clearly to the research team as well as external stakeholders will also be very important. Highly motivated candidates will have an opportunity to take an active role in the translation of lab-based research into real-world medical devices, as well as expand their research skills.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the apply button above.

We reserve the right to fill the position with a qualified candidate prior to the conclusion of the advertising period.

Documents in support of applications should include a CV and research statement.

Enquiries regarding the application process may be directed to Sohini Kar-Narayan, email jsk568@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference LJ43796 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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