Research Associate

The role

The University of Bristol is seeking a Research Associate with practical experience in 3D bioprinting to develop and apply new biotechnologies for complex tissue engineering. This project is part of a broad, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research programme led by Dr James Armstrong, who is leveraging recent innovations in bioengineering to advance the state-of-the-art in stem cell tissue models. Specifically, the research associate will develop and apply a new multi-material bioprinting technology in collaboration with Dr Liliang Ouyang at Tsinghua University ().

The research associate will join a vibrant research group with a diverse portfolio of experience in 3D bioprinting, organoid and tissue engineering, ultrasonics, and biomaterials. The group is based in a modern, multipurpose laboratory at the Dorothy Hodgkin Building, close to the centre of Bristol. This will provide on-site access to a suite of relevant facilities, while the research associate will also have funded access to state-of-the-art core facilities (e.g., the Wolfson Bioimaging Facility) and benefit from established collaborations with internationally leading academic research groups across the world. In particular, there will be a fully-funded opportunity to visit and work with the Ouyang Group at Tsinghua University (ranked 15th globally, QS Rankings 2021). Key technology innovations will be translated by working with industry partners and the Research & Enterprise Development team.

Dr James Armstrong, who has an award-winning approach to supervision, is fully committed to the scientific training, pastoral mentorship, and career development of his research team. He will work closely with the research associate to develop their technical skillset (e.g., data analysis, scientific communication, manuscript and grant writing) and broaden their portfolio through fully-funded opportunities for scientific training, career development, knowledge exchange, and international travel. The research associate will be expected to engage in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students, and make a positive contribution to the research environment (through equality, diversity, and inclusion). For more details, please visit www.TheArmstrongGroup.co.uk.

What will you be doing?

  • Develop and apply new multi-material bioprinting strategies for complex tissue engineering
  • Employ state-of-the-art characterization tools to analyse biomaterials and tissues
  • Analyse, interpret, and troubleshoot empirical datasets
  • Establish robust operating protocols for design, characterization, and analysis
  • Conceive and implement new project ideas and research directions
  • Attend, present, and contribute to relevant seminars, workshops, and conferences
  • Disseminate research output (g., reports, papers, patents, chapters, books, posters, talks)
  • Develop and maintain collaborative links with academic and industry partners
  • Teaching and supporting junior scientists in the laboratory
  • Please see job description for a full list of research, administration, and teaching responsibilities.

    You should apply if

  • You have practical experience in 3D bioprinting with cellularised bioinks
  • You have practical experience of hydrogels (g., polymer synthesis, rheology, compression testing)
  • You have enthusiasm for the use of 3D bioprinting as a tool for complex tissue engineering
  • You have a PhD in a relevant field
  • You have strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Please see job description for full details of the essential and desirable criteria.