Research Associate in Orthopaedic Surgical Robotics

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join a newly established University Technology Centre (UTC) in orthopaedic surgical robotics, funded by Smith+Nephew and based within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, you will undertake innovative research into next-generation surgical robotics and enabling technologies for orthopaedic surgery, including computer vision, markerless navigation, sensing, tracking, robotic perception and emerging robotic platforms.

You will design, develop and evaluate cutting-edge technologies, working closely with leading academic, clinical and industrial partners to deliver impactful research. Alongside publishing your work in leading journals and conferences, you will support the day-to-day operation of the UTC and contribute to the development of future researchers by supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students and engaging as an Assistant Supervisor to doctoral students.

What you would be doing:

• You will undertake innovative research in orthopaedic surgical robotics, designing, developing and validating algorithms, software and hardware for surgical navigation, computer vision, robotic perception, sensing, tracking and emerging robotic technologies.
• You will contribute to the planning and delivery of research activities within the UTC's agreed programmes, applying appropriate research methods and analysis techniques.
• You will support the UTC Director with the day-to-day management of the Centre, including monitoring project deliverables, maintaining records and supporting governance activities.
• You will actively apply for and engage as an Assistant Supervisor to doctoral students within the UTC, while supporting undergraduate and postgraduate project students where appropriate.
• You will develop and maintain effective relationships with academic, clinical and industrial partners, acting as a key point of contact for reporting, collaboration and information sharing.
• You will contribute to the dissemination of research outputs through publications, presentations and engagement with the wider research community.

What we are looking for:

• You must have a PhD in robotics, mechatronics, biomedical engineering, computer science or a closely related discipline.
• You must have experience in supporting postdoctoral students in a higher education setting.
• You must have demonstrable research experience in surgical or medical robotics, with a track record of publishing in relevant peer-reviewed journals, alongside experience working with industrial sponsors and clinical collaborators.
• You must have practical experience in surgical robotics and enabling technologies, including areas such as surgical navigation, computer vision, markerless tracking and registration, imaging-based tracking, sensing, robotic perception, robotic control, emerging robotic platforms or related software development.
• You must have knowledge of research methods, statistical analysis techniques and strong software development skills, including proficiency in programming languages such as Python and C++, and relevant robotics and computer vision frameworks (e.g. ROS and OpenCV).
• It would be beneficial to have experience supporting research student supervision, managing research projects or programmes, and working within academic–industrial collaborations involving intellectual property, confidentiality and research agreements.

What we can offer you:

• A visible role at the heart of a long-term, well-funded academic–industrial partnership, with a clear route to research independence.
• The opportunity to see your research translated towards clinical products with a world-leading medical device company.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year).

This position is fixed term and is expected to run for up to 2 years in the first instance. The successful candidate will be required to comply with the confidentiality and intellectual property provisions of the UTC framework agreement and, where required, to complete project timesheets. If you require any further details on the role please contact: Professor Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena – f.rodriguez@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.