Research Associate/Fellow: Clinical Translation of Ultra-Thin Imaging Devices for Pancreatic Cancer

University of Nottingham; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nottingham is seeking a talented individual to lead the hardware development of a groundbreaking ultra-thin imaging device aimed at improving pancreatic cancer detection. This role offers a unique opportunity within a multidisciplinary research environment, focusing on the translation of innovative technology into clinical practice, and involves collaboration with clinical experts.

Benefits

Fully equipped laboratories for prototyping and testing

Commitment to mentor development and career progression

Opportunities for international collaboration

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent industry experience in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated results through publications or technology commercialisation.
• Proven experimental skills in hardware development.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of a second-generation ultra-thin imaging device.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including surgeons and engineers.
• Prepare for pre-clinical studies and future clinical trials.

Skills

Optical fibres

Experimental skills

Data analysis software

Teamwork

Communication

Education

PhD in Electrical/Electronic/Photonic/Optical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Closing Date
Wednesday 16 July 2025

Reference
ENG163025

Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease affecting 500,000 people globally each year, including over 10,000 in the UK, with a mere 5% ten-year survival rate. Our goal is to accelerate the clinical translation of innovative miniature, hair-thin imaging devices we have previously developed [https://doi.org/10.1117/1.JBO.29.2.026002]. These devices are designed to enable early and accurate detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous pancreatic cysts, significantly improving patient outcomes, reducing unnecessary surveillance, and minimizing repeat biopsies.

We have secured funding from the Medical Research Council (MRC) to further develop our existing prototypes toward clinical application and as a result are seeking a highly motivated individual to lead the hardware development of a second-generation clinically translatable prototype of our ultra-thin imaging device. You will lead the technical development through to the first pre-clinical studies on ex vivo human pancreatic tissues, laying essential groundwork for subsequent human clinical trials. You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team involving pancreatic cancer surgeons, pathologists, and engineers. There will be significant potential for further clinical translation and commericalisation activities.

What We Offer:

• A unique opportunity to translate potentially life-saving technology from the lab into clinical practice.
• Opportunity to lead device commercialisation activities.
• A world-class, multidisciplinary research environment spanning optics/photonics, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), and clinical medicine.
• Fully equipped laboratories for prototyping, development, and testing.
• Commitment to researcher development, mentoring, and career progression (signatories of the Researcher Development Concordat: www.vitae.ac.uk/policy/concordat). See also Dr. Gordon's Lab Charter (http://www.georgesdgordon.com/?page_id=584).
• Opportunities for international collaboration and conference attendance.

Salary and Terms:

• Full-time position (part-time and job-share arrangements available, minimum 21.75 hours per week), start date ideally beginning of August 2025 (some flexibility)
• The role is offered on a fixed-term contract initially for 18 months, extendable up to 3 years contingent upon successfully meeting project milestones.

What you should have:

• PhD (or nearing completion) or equivalent industry experience in Electrical/Electronic/Photonic/Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results, evidenced by academic publications or successful commercialisation of technologies/products.
• Proven hands-on experimental skills of developing hardware.
• Practical experience with optical fibres.
• Proficiency in writing instrument control and data analysis software (e.g., C/C++, Python or MATLAB).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines.

This milestone-driven project requires high focus and productivity because continued funding is dependent upon achieving pre-agreed milestones.

The successful candidate will be based in the OPTIMlab within the Engineering Department, led by Dr. George Gordon (further information at www.georgesdgordon.com). Please contact Dr. Gordon informally if you are considering applying ([e-mail]). Please note formal applications must be submitted via the University's online application system. Applications should include a CV and covering letter detailing relevant experience and suitability for the role.