Research Associate in Manufacturing Technologies

Manchester Metropolitan University; Manchester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Manchester is seeking a Research Associate to join its engineering research team. This role involves conceptualising soft prosthetic devices, conducting research on manufacturing processes, and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in Engineering and have a strong background in manufacturing and device creation. Join a diverse team dedicated to innovation and transformation in high-value devices through research and collaboration.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Inclusive culture

Qualifications

• Strong background in manufacturing and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated experience in creating bespoke devices.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualise and design soft prosthetic devices.
• Conduct research on manufacturing processes and materials.
• Generate independent research ideas.

Skills

Manufacturing methods

Research and development

Communication skills

Time management

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Engineering or allied discipline

Tools

Manufacturing apparatus

Job description

Background:

We are seeking to appoint a new Research Associate to join the research team of Professor Russell Harris in the Department of Engineering at the Manchester Metropolitan University. This team explores and investigates how novel methods of fabrication and manufacture can enable new capabilities and functionality in high-value devices. We have a large portfolio of externally funded research projects and have extensive cross-disciplinary partnerships internally, nationally, and globally.

What will you do?

As a Research Associate, your main duties will include:

• Conceptualising, designing and engineering soft prosthetic devices;
• Conducting research into the development and operation of the manufacturing process for these, and conducting technical research on materials, components and other parts as necessary;
• Study and benchmark elements including material compatibility, compositional changes, scales and accuracy of the resultant components and their functionality;
• Benchmarking other relevant manufacturing processes as well as likely future technology developments;
• Generating and pursuing independent and original research ideas in the appropriate subject area with your research lead;
• Developing research objectives and proposals and contributing to setting the direction of the research project and team including preparing proposals for funding in collaboration with your research lead;
• Making a significant contribution to the dissemination of research results by publication in leading peer-reviewed journals and by presentation at national and international meetings;
• Working independently and as part of a larger team of researchers, both internally and externally, to develop new research links and collaborations and engage in knowledge transfer activities where appropriate;
• Evaluating methods and techniques used and results obtained by other researchers and to relate such evaluations appropriately to your own work;
• Maintaining your own continuing professional development and aiding other colleagues as appropriate;
• Contributing to the training of both undergraduate and postgraduate students, including assisting with the supervision of projects in areas relevant to the project.

These duties provide a framework for the role and should not be regarded as a definitive list. Other reasonable duties may be required consistent with the grade of the post.

What will you bring?

As a Research Associate, you will have:

• A PhD in Engineering or a closely allied discipline;
• A strong background, and evidence of, the use of manufacturing apparatus and instrumentation;
• A strong background, and evidence of, prior work in creating bespoke devices;
• Good time management and planning skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines and manage competing demands effectively without close support;
• A developing track record of peer-reviewed publications in international journals;
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal, and the ability to communicate your research at national and international conferences;
• A proven ability to work well both independently and in a team;
• A commitment to your own continuous professional development.

You may also have:

• Experience of pursuing external funding to support research.

If you would like to join our people and share our ambition, we would love to hear from you!

Application:

• To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter outlining, in particular, how your profile, experience and ambition make you the ideal candidate for the role.
• To arrange an informal discussion, please email [e-mail].

We believe in working together, sharing knowledge and valuing everyone's contributions. Develop your skills, further your knowledge and be part of a team who are transforming lives, every single day!

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, including those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.

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