Research Associate in Neurotechnology and Bioelectronic Devices

Job description

About the role

Funded by the UK Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA) through its Massively Scalable Neurotechnology Programme, this Research Associate position will contribute to an ambitious interdisciplinary project developing novel bioelectronic technologies for minimally invasive neural monitoring. The successful candidate will play a leading role in the design, fabrication, integration and characterisation of advanced bioelectronic devices and experimental platforms. The role will involve device development, system integration, electrophysiological and acoustic testing, signal acquisition and analysis, and close collaboration with researchers in bioengineering, ultrasonics, neuroscience, robotics and computational modelling. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of bioelectronics, neuroscience and advanced sensing technologies, contributing to the development of next-generation neurotechnology platforms .

What you would be doing

You will contribute to the development, fabrication and evaluation of novel bioelectronic devices and experimental platforms for physiological signal sensing and analysis. Working within a highly interdisciplinary team spanning bioengineering, ultrasonics, neuroscience and advanced manufacturing, your responsibilities will include:

• Designing, fabricating and characterising novel bioelectronic devices and prototypes.
• Developing device fabrication, assembly and integration workflows.
• Establishing electrical, electrochemical and acoustic testing methodologies.
• Building and maintaining experimental platforms for device evaluation and validation.
• Acquiring, processing and analysing physiological, electrical and acoustic signals.
• Evaluating device performance, sensitivity, stability and reliability.
• Contributing to system integration and prototype optimisation.
• Working closely with collaborators across multiple work packages to deliver bespoke devices and testing solutions.
• Supporting laboratory-based validation studies where appropriate.
• Maintaining accurate and complete experimental records.
• Contributing to project milestones, technical reports and research deliverables.
• Presenting research findings at project meetings and scientific conferences.
• Publishing research in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
• Supporting student supervision and the preparation of research funding applications.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a motivated and collaborative researcher with experience in bioelectronics, biomedical devices, advanced sensing technologies, or a closely related area. You should have:

• A PhD, or equivalent research experience, in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, electronic engineering, materials science, physics, neuroscience, or a related discipline.
• Experience in the fabrication, integration or characterisation of bioelectronic devices, sensors, or related technologies.
• Experience in electrical, electrochemical, acoustic, or other experimental device characterisation techniques.
• Experience in experimental data acquisition and quantitative data analysis.
• Experience with signal processing and data interpretation.
• The ability to troubleshoot complex experimental systems.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organisational, communication and scientific writing skills.
• A publication record appropriate to career stage.

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:

• Bioelectronic devices, implantable technologies, or advanced sensing systems.
• Device fabrication, advanced manufacturing, microfabrication, additive manufacturing, 3D printing, or related technologies.
• Electrophysiological, electrochemical, acoustic or ultrasonic measurement techniques.
• Signal processing, computational analysis or quantitative modelling of experimental data.
• In vitro or animal research experience and associated experimental procedures.

Experience working in interdisciplinary teams spanning engineering, physical sciences, life sciences or clinical research.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to contribute to an ambitious ARIA-funded neurotechnology project at a world-leading institution and support Imperial's mission to use science for humanity.
• A collaborative, multidisciplinary working environment spanning design engineering, bioengineering, mechanical engineering, and brain sciences.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial's sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 43 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing .

Further information

Please note that this is a PhD level role but candidates who have not yet been officially awarded will be appointed as a Research Assistant .

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week) on a fixed-term contract for 24 months. An extension to 30 months is anticipated, subject to satisfactory progress and the availability of funding.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Yunlong Zhao- [email protected] .

Planned Start Date: 19/01/2027