Research Associate/Fellow in Design and Control of Continuum Robots for Medical Applications (fixed term)

We are developing ground breaking robotics technology to extend robotic surgery to previously inaccessible parts of the body, enabling minimally invasive treatments for diseases like cancer.

Our continuum robot design builds on years of successful development within the Rolls-Royce Manufacturing and On-Wing University Technology Centre (http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/utc), in the Faculty of Engineering. The centre boasts an excellent international reputation for high-quality research funded by EPSRC, IUK, and the EU. Our continuum robots have been showcased in various environments and media outlets:

• COBRA robot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlhULsPVgLU
• BBC Media Release: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-64333828
• The Engineer Award: https://www.theengineer.co.uk/content/news/cobra-repair-robot-set-for-human-surgery/
• Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@uonrolls-royceuniversityte3431

What we offer:

• A world-class research environment including state of the art robotics labs and fabrication facilities
• A supportive environment for researchers as signatories of the Researcher Development Concordat (www.vitae.ac.uk/policy/concordat)
• Opportunities to produce high-quality publications
• Development of multidisciplinary skills in continuum robots, optical imaging, spectroscopy, and clinical translation of medical technologies
• Collaboration opportunities with internationally companies interested in our project results and partnering in spin-off initiatives
• Travel opportunities to visit international partners and attend conferences

What you should have:

• A good first undergraduate degree (BEng/BSc) in mechatronic/control/manufacturing engineering or in a closely related discipline
• Must either possess a PhD (or be close to completion) in mechanical design engineering or a related field (e.g. manufacturing engineering)
• Knowledge of kinematic, static, and dynamic analysis, and control solutions related to continuum robots
• Strong evidence of developing your own software (e.g., MATLAB, ROS, C++, and/or LabVIEW) to control such systems
• (Desirable but not essential): Expertise in developing customised robots for various applications (e.g., manipulation/surveillance)
• Excellent communication, presentation, and publishing skills to aid effective interaction with multidisciplinary, international academic and industrial partners

It is a condition of this role that you undertake the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) screening.

To understand more about our application process and how to complete a criteria-based?application form please visit the University of Nottingham Candidate Guidance.

The post is offered on a full time (36.25 hours per week), fixed term contract until 30 October 2026. Job share opportunities may be considered.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.