Job Description

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join RADlab at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by UKRI and is fixed-term (1st January 2025 to 31st May 2028).

The RADlab at University of Oxford is seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher for the Neural-driven, Active, and Reconfigurable Mechanical Metamaterials (NARMM) project. Candidates with a PhD in Engineering (or close to completion) may apply. You will be responsible for:

Design of the first reconfigurable robotic matter in collaboration with world-leading universities and industrial partners

Create protocols to obtain devices with repeatable performances.

Optimise specific designs for morphable wearable robotic devices

You should possess:

1. a PhD (or near completion) in Engineering or in an area related to mechanics and soft robotics.

2. Good knowledge and research experiences in manufacturing of soft devices and granular systems for morph shaping.

3. Proficiency in Multiphysics software (COMSOL and/or Abaqus), python/matlab coding and Molecular Dynamics Simulator (LAMMPs).

4. Publications in mechanical metamaterials, soft robotics, or related area in peer-reviewed journals.

5. Highly motivated and enthusiastic to deliver research within timeline

6. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write publications, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings



(with the possibility to underfill at Grade 6 (34,982 - 40,855 p.a.) if candidate holds a relevant degree/Masters and is working on PhD/DPhil) together with relevant experience;

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Antonio Elia Forte (email: @eng.ox.ac.uk)

For more information about working at the Department, see
www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/

Only online applications received before midday on

1st September 2025

can be considered. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, including a brief statement of research interests (describing how past experience and future plans fit with the advertised position), CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.
Robotics, Granular materials, Molecular dynamics, Finite element modelling, wearable robotics.