Postdoctoral Research Assistant

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) to join the
Oxford Orthopaedic Engineering Centre (OOEC) at the Nuffield Department of
Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of
Oxford. The post is fixed-term for 6 months.



We have developed a 3D imaging and reconstruction system called CAT&MAUS
(Computer-Aided Tracking & Motion Analysis with Ultrasound, which uses
ultrasound imaging to improve the accuracy of optoelectronic motion capture
(MOCAP) in human joint studies. With the support from the EPSRC, we are now
working on a project to replace MOCAP with inertial measurement units (IMUs),
computer vision and machine learning and to develop a compact, low-cost system
which can be used for joint investigations in clinical environments. We seek a
motivated researcher to join our interdisciplinary team of engineers and
clinicians working on the development of a system for applications in clinical
orthopaedics.



As a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you will test techniques commonly used
in robotics, such as Simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) and Visual
Inertial Odometry Tracking (VIO) with the CAT&MAUS framework. You will assist
with testing the system's accuracy for bone pose estimation. You will design
and conduct experiments to collect data on existing device performance in both
laboratory and clinical settings and develop a method to add CAT&MAUS
functionality to a clinical cart-based US device and repeat the above testing.
You will manage your own academic research, help develop ideas for income
generation and contribute to publications.



You will have a Doctorate degree in Biomedical Engineering or a related
technical field. Experience with motion capture (VICON/OptiTrack), knowledge
of orthopaedic biomechanics and joint kinematics together with experience in
musculoskeletal modelling and excellent problem-solving skills are essential.
Track record of publications, preferably in biomedical engineering themed
journals (or related fields), basic knowledge of machine learning and
experience of participating in accelerator programs are desirable.



This is a full-time fixed-term appointment for 6 months with funding available
until 31/03/2025. Ideally the successful candidate would be available to start
no later than Tuesday 1st October 2024.



A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6: £32,332- £38,205 p.a.) with
commensurate reduction in responsibilities (and amendment in job title to
Research Assistant if a suitable candidate cannot be found to fill the Grade 7
position.



The closing date for this position 29 July 2024 You will be required to upload
a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. We are
planning to conduct interviews on 7th/8th August.