At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative software for a user-friendly EEG headset to aid in seizure diagnosis.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's dynamic Healthcare Technologies Institute.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity, sustainability, and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in healthcare with cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary teamwork.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant engineering or computer science field; experience in embedded software development.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to June 2028
Closing date: 21st June 2026
The Healthcare Technologies Institute at the University of Birmingham is seeking to appoint a Research Fellow in Medical Device Software Engineering to support the development of an affordable user centred EEG headset for community-based diagnosis and management of suspected seizures. This role forms part of a large multidisciplinary research programme focused on the development of affordable community-based EEG technologies for neurological diagnosis and monitoring. The project involves collaboration between the University of Birmingham, the University of Plymouth, the University of Lancashire, NHS partners, industry collaborators, and patient and public contributors. The programme combines expertise in engineering, neuroscience, mathematics, medicine, digital biomarkers, and user centred healthcare innovation to develop wearable EEG systems suitable for use in home and primary care settings.
The successful candidate will contribute to development of embedded firmware, software interfaces, APIs, mobile applications, and secure cloud connectivity for a next generation wearable EEG platform. The project will involve close collaboration with engineers, clinicians, mathematicians, researchers, and people with lived experience to develop robust and accessible digital health technologies.
Role Summary
The post holder will undertake software development and system integration activities for wearable EEG technologies and associated digital health infrastructure. The role will focus on embedded firmware, Bluetooth communication, mobile application development, secure data transfer, and integration with cloud-based systems for physiological data collection and analysis. The Research Fellow will contribute to development processes aligned with medical device quality and regulatory requirements and will support documentation activities associated with future UKCA approval pathways.
Main Duties
- Develop embedded firmware for wearable EEG hardware systems and associated data acquisition units.
- Develop software interfaces and communication protocols for wireless EEG data transmission using Bluetooth Low Energy and related technologies.
- Design and implement APIs and backend interfaces for secure data collection and transfer.
- Contribute to the development of mobile applications for EEG device configuration, operation, and user interaction.
- Support integration of embedded systems, mobile applications, and cloud infrastructure.
- Develop software tools for device testing, validation, and performance evaluation.
- Contribute to cybersecurity, secure data handling, and system reliability considerations for connected medical technologies.
- Work closely with hardware engineers to support system integration and optimisation.
- Support development of software documentation, verification records, and technical documentation aligned with medical device development processes.
- Contribute to usability testing and iterative development informed by stakeholder and patient feedback.
- Analyse and interpret technical and experimental data related to system performance and data quality.
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding.
- Disseminate research outputs through technical reports, conference presentations, and academic publications.
- Contribute to research grant applications and future translational activities.
- Support supervision of students and provide guidance to junior researchers where appropriate.
- Undertake research related management and administration activities.
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion and contribute to an inclusive working environment.
Person Specification
Essential
- First degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
- A higher degree relevant to the research area, or equivalent professional experience.
- Experience in embedded software or firmware development.
- Experience in software development using languages such as C, C++, Python, Kotlin, Swift, or similar.
- Experience with wireless communication protocols including Bluetooth Low Energy.
- Ability to develop and debug integrated hardware and software systems.
- Ability to analyse and interpret technical data.
- Ability to communicate technical information clearly to multidisciplinary audiences.
- Ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary research teams.
- Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
Desirable
- Experience in development of medical device software or connected healthcare technologies.
- Experience with physiological sensing systems or wearable technologies.
- Experience with cloud infrastructure, APIs, and secure healthcare data systems.
- Knowledge of software lifecycle processes for regulated medical devices.
- Familiarity with standards and regulatory frameworks such as IEC 62304, ISO 13485, ISO 14971, GDPR, or UKCA requirements.
Informal enquiries to Atif Shahzad, email: a.shahzad@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Research Fellow - School of Chemical Engineering - 107526 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: The University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Fellow role in the School of Chemical Engineering, located in the vibrant Edgbaston area. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that fosters innovation and professional growth through multidisciplinary projects. The university provides competitive salaries, opportunities for career progression, and a supportive atmosphere that encourages contributions to meaningful healthcare advancements.
Contact Details:
The University of Birmingham Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - School of Chemical Engineering - 107526 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Birmingham or similar projects. Attend relevant events and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to software development and medical devices. Think about how your skills in embedded firmware and mobile app development can shine through. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! If you've worked on any relevant software or hardware projects, make sure to highlight them during interviews. Bring along a portfolio or a GitHub link to demonstrate your coding skills and problem-solving abilities. It’s all about making a memorable impression!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. So, get that application in and let’s land that job together!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - School of Chemical Engineering - 107526 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the role, so don’t be afraid to express your unique style and experiences.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for this specific role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, especially in embedded software and medical device development.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working with a multidisciplinary team, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past teamwork experiences that demonstrate your communication and problem-solving skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of embedded software and firmware development. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like Bluetooth Low Energy and the programming languages required. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve worked with engineers, clinicians, or researchers, and how you contributed to achieving common goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions during the interview. Brush up on your problem-solving skills and be ready to tackle scenarios related to software development and system integration. Practising coding problems or discussing past projects can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Healthcare Tech
Since this role is focused on developing medical device software, it’s crucial to convey your genuine interest in healthcare technologies. Share any relevant experiences or projects that showcase your commitment to improving patient care through technology, and don’t hesitate to express why this role excites you.
