Research Fellow in Evolutionary Biomechanics

Job title:

Research Fellow in Evolutionary Biomechanics

Company:

University College London

Job description

About usUCL Mechanical Engineering has been pioneering the development of engineering education, having taught the core discipline for over 170 years. UCL was home to the UK’s first ever Professor of the Mechanical Principles of Engineering, Eaton Hodgkinson, in 1847. It was also where Sir Alexander Blackie William Kennedy introduced organized laboratory practicals in university education training; a world-leading educational innovation at the time.Today our students are taught core engineering disciplines and supervised in individual and group research projects by academics that are recognised research world-leaders in their fields. In the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) 96% of the department’s research submitted in UoA12 was judged “world leading” or “internationally excellent”. At UCL Mechanical Engineering, we develop and apply core competencies to produce world-class research into a wider range of engineering challenges than most would imagine. Amongst many other avenues we are:

• Leading research into low carbon shipping
• Designing the greenest engines and novel sustainable fuels
• Studying the flow of red blood cells in channels thinner than a human hair
• Using ‘lighter than air’ building materials to develop the solar power stations of the future.
• Developing the most advanced brain models for dementia
• Designing propulsion systems for advanced multihull ships

Further information is available atThe Moazen Lab is recruiting for a Research Fellow in Evolutionary Biomechanics. The lab is located within UCL Mechanical Engineering, the first department of its kind in the UK, and is supported by state-of-the-art imaging and material characterisation facilities.The Moazen Lab focuses on the biomechanics of bones and joints, with particular emphasis on understanding the mechanisms of growth, adaptation, and repair through computational and experimental techniques.In particular, this research group has acquired an international reputation for research in craniofacial biomechanics. The group has led several multidisciplinary projects in collaboration with biologists, clinicians, and industrial partners, with two main research strands in craniofacial and lower limb biomechanics.This role is part of a Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) funded research project, conducted in collaboration with three international partners, which aims to investigate the musculoskeletal system of head-first burrowers (amphisbaenians).About the roleThis position is part of a Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP) funded project focused on understanding the musculoskeletal system of head-first burrowers (amphisbaenians). The role will lead on the computational simulation aspects of the project, specifically modelling burrowing behaviour and its impact on the skull. Responsibilities include conducting a range of computer simulations using discrete element and finite element methods, as well as performing experimental testing to validate the models.Prior experience with discrete element methods—such as those used in simulating burrowing—is desirable. However, candidates without this experience who are enthusiastic about the project are encouraged to apply, provided they are willing to develop expertise in this area.The role involves active engagement with the project team, including close collaboration with a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) based in the Moazen Lab and with other project partners. Additional responsibilities include contributing to student supervision within the lab, presenting research at conferences, publishing findings, and supporting other team members. Occasional travel to partner institutions for data collection and exchange may be required.About youWe would be delighted to receive applications from candidates who meet the following criteria:

• PhD (or about to complete) in relevant discipline e.g. Bio/Medical/Mechanical Engineering
• A track record of developing validated computational models based on finite element method.
• Experience in developing experimental set up to validate computational models.
• Proven track record of presenting and publishing research in reputable conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
• A strong interdisciplinary background
• A high level of self-motivation
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to work closely with other team and lab members

While not essential, your application will be enhanced if you are able to demonstrate an aptitude for the following:

• A track record of developing validated computational models based on discrete element method
• Experience of working on biological systems and/or craniofacial system
• Experience in image processing and material characterisation

Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for more insight into the essential and desirable criteria required in this post.FURTHER INFORMATION:The post is initially funded for 3 years and will be subject to standard probation and appraisal procedures. Please note that while this is a Grade 7 post, we will accept applications from finishing PhD students at Grade 6B at a salary of £41,255. The position is based in UCL Mechanical Engineering at our Bloomsbury campus.What we offerAs well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• Immigration loan
• Relocation scheme for certain posts
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

Visit to find out more.Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and InclusionAs London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce.These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.Our department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.Available documents

Expected salary

£41255 per year

Location

North West London

Job date

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 06:47:44 GMT

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