Research Associate in Multibody Biomechanical Modelling

University of Sheffield - School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering

Placed On: 16th January 2026
Closes: 31st January 2026
Job Ref: 2127

We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering to join the EPSRC funded project ‘The Effect of Hip Muscles on Knee Pain’ - a collaborative project between the University of Sheffield and Imperial College.

We are seeking candidates with, or close to completing, a PhD related to biomechanics, with experience of biomechanical multibody modelling. Strong research skills with a good knowledge of model development are needed. You will be working with another research associate appointed at Imperial College, to develop computational models representative of their experimental setup, and therefore excellent communication skills are required. Experience of working collaboratively across a multidisciplinary team is desirable. Candidates will need to be creative and flexible in their approach to the study, and work with external partners to share knowledge developed through the project.

Project summary:This project aims to identify the mechanics of the iliotibial band, advancing understanding on how hip musculature affects the biomechanics of the knee joint – particularly with respect to knee pain. Through a combined experimental and computational approach, we aim to develop a predictive model to explore how changes to muscle strength affect the mechanical function of the iliotibial band through activities of daily living and physical exercise. The long-term aim is this research will inform decision-making in the treatment of knee pain symptoms through physiotherapy and surgery.