Research Assistant or Associate in Micro-Robotics and Automated Medical Device Fabrication

Imperial College London - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Placed On: 13th February 2026

Closes: 12th March 2026

Job Ref: ENG03797

About the role:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Micro-Robotics and Automated Medical Device Fabrication to join a newly funded EIC Pathfinder Open project, NIRFUS. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of advanced automated fabrication processes for miniaturised intravascular medical imaging catheters. This position provides an opportunity to carry out hands-on experimental research at the intersection of micro-engineering, automation, and medical device development.

What you would be doing:

You will play a central role in delivering the NIRFUS project, working across two closely connected work packages focused on automated micro‑assembly for medical micro‑optical and micro-electronic components and multi‑degree‑of‑freedom micro‑fabrication on fibres.

In this role, you will:

• Lead the design, development, and experimental validation of precision micro‑scale systems for automated fabrication.
• Develop and implement automation and control strategies to ensure reliable and repeatable operation of experimental platforms.
• Integrate mechanical, electrical, and software components at system level.
• Contribute to project coordination, technical reporting, and delivery of milestones and deliverables.
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator, PhD students, and external project partners within an international consortium.
• Disseminate research outcomes through high‑quality publications and presentations.

What we are looking for:

We are looking for a motivated researcher who enjoys working on complex experimental systems and interdisciplinary challenges, and who is interested in developing their independence within a collaborative research environment. In particular, you will have:

• A PhD (or near completion) in Robotics, Mechatronics, Control Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Micro-Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Practical experience with micro-scale or precision engineering systems, such as micro-fabrication, micro-assembly, or high-precision experimental platforms.
• Experience in automation, control, or system integration for physical engineering platforms.
• Experience using optical or other microscopy techniques for experimental characterisation, or a strong understanding of microscopy-based measurement and imaging.
• Familiarity with image-based analysis, such as image processing, microscopy imaging workflows, or computer vision methods, applied to experimental systems.
• Strong programming skills for experimental system development and data analysis.
• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research team.

Full details of the essential and desirable criteria can be found in the accompanying job description.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to work on an ambitious, high‑impact EU‑funded Pathfinder project at the forefront of medical micro‑engineering.
• A central role within a small, highly collaborative research group with close mentoring from the Principal Investigator.
• Exposure to international collaborations with leading groups in the field and a multidisciplinary research environment spanning engineering and healthcare.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution.
• Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package, including 38 days of annual leave.