"Postdoctoral Research Associate in Tissue Engineering - In Vitro Tissue Models"

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Tissue Engineering - In Vitro Tissue Models

University of Oxford - Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division - Institute of Biomedical Engineering

Placed On: 6th January 2026

Closes: 30th January 2026

Job Ref: 183990

Location: Headington, Oxford

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join Oxford Centre for Tissue Engineering and Bioprocessing at the Department of Engineering Science (Headington). The post is funded by Medical Research Council and is fixed-term for 30 months.

This project seeks to harness recent progress to develop innovative human models that better replicate complex pain pathways. We will establish the cellular models and then induce pain-like states in the models, with a focus on neuropathic pain and osteoarthritis pain. You will be responsible for select and optimise biomaterials for building 3D bone/cartilage model and integrate it with vascular and neuronal components and develop a bioreactor system where the built 3D tissue models can be kept alive and subject to various tests.

You should hold a relevant PhD/DPhil (e.g. Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials, Biochemical Engineering) or be near completion*, together with experience in 3D cell/tissue culture, bioreactor design or perfusion culture systems and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in biomaterials modification, fabrication and characterisation for tissue engineering applications.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Cathy Ye (email: hua.ye@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 30 January 2026 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.

In vitro articular tissue model; biomaterials; bioreactor; osteoarthritis; stem cells