Research Assistant or Associate in Micro‑Robotics and Automated Medical Device Fabrication
Job Details
* Job number: ENG03797
* Faculties: Faculty of Engineering
* Departments: Department of Mechanical Engineering
* Salary: £43,863 - £57,472 per annum
* Location/campus: South Kensington Campus - Hybrid
* Contract type: Full time - Fixed term
* Posting End Date: 12 Mar 2026
About the role
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Micro‑Robotics and Automated Medical Device Fabrication to join a newly funded EIC Pathfinder Open project, NIRFUS. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of advanced automated fabrication processes for miniaturised intravascular medical imaging catheters. This position provides an opportunity to carry out hands‑on experimental research at the intersection of micro‑engineering, automation, and medical device development.
What you would be doing
You will play a central role in delivering the NIRFUS project, working across two closely connected work packages focused on automated microassembly for medical micro‑optical and micro‑electronic components and multi‑degree‑of‑freedom micro‑fabrication on fibres.
* Lead the design, development, and experimental validation of precision microscale systems for automated fabrication.
* Develop and implement automation and control strategies to ensure reliable and repeatable operation of experimental platforms.
* Integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components at system level.
* Contribute to project coordination, technical reporting, and delivery of milestones and deliverables.
* Work closely with the Principal Investigator, PhD students, and external project partners within an international consortium.
* Disseminate research outcomes through high‑quality publications and presentations.
What we are looking for
We are looking for a motivated researcher who enjoys working on complex experimental systems and interdisciplinary challenges, and who is interested in developing their independence within a collaborative research environment. In particular, you will have:
* A PhD (or near completion) in Robotics, Mechatronics, Control Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Micro‑Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
* Practical experience with micro‑scale or precision engineering systems, such as micro‑fabrication, micro‑assembly, or high‑precision experimental platforms.
* Experience in automation, control, or system integration for physical engineering platforms.
* Experience using optical or other microscopy techniques for experimental characterisation, or a strong understanding of microscopy‑based measurement and imaging.
* Familiarity with image‑based analysis, such as image processing, microscopy imaging workflows, or computer vision methods, applied to experimental systems.
* Strong programming skills for experimental system development and data analysis.
* The ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research team.
What we can offer you
* The opportunity to work on an ambitious, high‑impact EU‑funded Pathfinder project at the forefront of medical microengineering.
* A central role within a small, highly collaborative research group with close mentoring from the Principal Investigator.
* Exposure to international collaborations with leading groups in the field and a multidisciplinary research environment spanning engineering and healthcare.
* The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution.
* Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package, including 38 days of annual leave.
Further information
This position is fixed‑term and is expected to run for until 31 December 2028.
The expected start date is April 2026, and candidates should note that appointment will be subject to standard pre‑employment checks in line with College policy.
If you require any further details on the role, please contact: Dr Jang Ah Kim – j.a.kim@imperial.ac.uk.
Hybrid working may be considered for this role. Staff working in roles that are suitable for hybrid working will normally be expected to work 60% of their time onsite. The opportunity for hybrid working will be discussed at interview.
We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we received a high number of applications. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
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