Oxford, United Kingdom
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Wearable Robotics and Experimental Biomechanics
Salary: £39,424 - £47,779 per annum
Closing date: Nov 02, 2026 12:00PM
Description
We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join RADlab (www.radlab-oxford.com) at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by UKRI and is fixed-term to 31st May 2028.
You will develop wearable robotic devices that deliver assistive forces and joint torques, with a particular focus on upper-body movement. The research will combine soft robotic actuation, device fabrication and experimental biomechanics.
You Will Be Responsible For
- Designing and fabricating wearable soft robotic devices that provide mechanical assistance during upper-body movements.
- Developing experimental protocols to characterise actuator force, joint assistance, range of motion and the transfer of loads between the device and the body.
- Evaluating and optimising device performance, repeatability, durability and comfort through mechanical testing and human movement measurements.
- Collaborating with researchers in biomechanical modelling and robotics to translate experimental findings into improved designs.
You Should Possess
- A PhD, or be near completion of a PhD, in Engineering, Biomechanics, Robotics or a closely related discipline.
- Experience in experimental biomechanics, preferably involving the upper body, including the shoulder, arm or trunk.
- Strong practical expertise in the design, fabrication and testing of robotic devices, including relevant techniques such as moulding, casting, additive manufacturing or textile fabrication.
- Research experience in soft robotics, wearable robotics or exoskeletons. Experience with rigid or hybrid exoskeletons is also relevant.
- Experience in actuator characterisation, instrumentation and data acquisition, with proficiency in Python or MATLAB for experimental data analysis.
- A record of peer-reviewed publications appropriate to your career stage, strong communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively to meet research milestones.
Experience in human movement analysis, motion capture, wearable sensing, EMG or the integration of robotic control systems would be advantageous.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Antonio Elia Forte (email: antonio.forte@eng.ox.ac.uk)
For more information about working at the Department, see www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/
The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.
Soft-Robotics, Robotics, Wearable-Robotics, Exoskeleton, Mechanics
Contact
Antonio Forte
antonio.forte@eng.ox.ac.uk
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Wearable Robotics and Experimental Biomechanics Closing date: Nov 02, 2026 in Oxford employer: University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science
As a Senior Programme Manager at BOLD Lab, you will be part of a dynamic and collaborative work culture that prioritises scientific excellence and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our supportive environment, where you will have the opportunity to lead impactful projects and develop your skills alongside esteemed academic and professional teams. Located in a vibrant academic setting, we offer unique advantages such as access to cutting-edge research facilities and a network of external partners dedicated to fostering sustainable growth.
Contact Details:
University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science Recruitment Team
