Research Associate in Manufacturing Technologies - (8821)

Background: 

We are seeking to appoint a new Research Associate to join the research team of Professor Russell Harris in the Department of Engineering at the Manchester Metropolitan University. This team explores and investigates how novel methods of fabrication and manufacture can enable new capabilities and functionality in high-value devices. We have a large portfolio of externally funded research projects and have extensive cross-disciplinary partnerships internally, nationally, and globally.

Themes of technical research within this include; digital manufacturing methods, automation, high-resolution and micro fabrication, functional materials, and soft materials. Within this is our research of new technologies for fabricating soft tissue prosthetics which will be the focus of this position.

You will work with our wider project team on conceptualising, designing and engineering the bases for these transformative healthcare devices. The creation of these will be investigated by experimentation with our bespoke in-house manufacturing processes to realise the required material compatibility, compositional variation, and scales and accuracy of fabrication. This will include the design and engineering of new or adapted components, systems and hardware to enable effective operation. It will then involve conducting analysis of device capabilities and performance.

You will work alongside existing researchers and academics at Manchester Metropolitan University, in conjunction with our wider trans-disciplinary UK collaborators. Your experimental work will be conducted in our newly refurbished research laboratory.

Holding a PhD in Engineering or a closely allied discipline, you will have a strong background in the fabrication of specialist devices. You will also have an enthusiastic, creative approach to your research and thrive on working with a team.

What will you do?

As a Research Associate, your main duties will include:

• Conceptualising, designing and engineering soft prosthetic devices;
• Conducting research into the development and operation of the manufacturing process for these, and conducting technical research on materials, components and other parts as necessary;
• Study and benchmark elements including material compatibility, compositional changes, scales and accuracy of the resultant components and their functionality;
• Benchmarking other relevant manufacturing processes as well as likely future technology developments;
• Generating and pursuing independent and original research ideas in the appropriate subject area with your research lead;
• Developing research objectives and proposals and contributing to setting the direction of the research project and team including preparing proposals for funding in collaboration with your research lead;
• Making a significant contribution to the dissemination of research results by publication in leading peer-reviewed journals and by presentation at national and international meetings;
• Working independently and as part of a larger team of researchers, both internally and externally, to develop new research links and collaborations and engage in knowledge transfer activities where appropriate;
• Evaluating methods and techniques used and results obtained by other researchers and to relate such evaluations appropriately to your own work;
• Maintaining your own continuing professional development and aiding other colleagues as appropriate;
• Contributing to the training of both undergraduate and postgraduate students, including assisting with the supervision of projects in areas relevant to the project.

These duties provide a framework for the role and should not be regarded as a definitive list. Other reasonable duties may be required consistent with the grade of the post.

What will you bring?

As a Research Associate, you will have:

• A PhD in Engineering or a closely allied discipline;
• A strong background, and evidence of, the use of manufacturing apparatus and instrumentation;
• A strong background, and evidence of, prior work in creating bespoke devices;
• Good time management and planning skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines and manage competing demands effectively without close support;
• A developing track record of peer-reviewed publications in international journals;
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal, and the ability to communicate your research at national and international conferences;
• A proven ability to work well both independently and in a team;
• A commitment to your own continuous professional development.

You may also have:

• Experience of pursuing external funding to support research.

If you would like to join our people and share our ambition, we would love to hear from you! 

Application:

• To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter outlining, in particular, how your profile, experience and ambition make you the ideal candidate for the role.
• To arrange an informal discussion, please email Russ.Harris@mmu.ac.uk  

We believe in working together, sharing knowledge and valuing everyone's contributions. Develop your skills, further your knowledge and be part of a team who are transforming lives, every single day!  

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, including those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.

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