Faculty of Technology
School of Engineering
Research Assistant
Employment type: Fixed-term contract (to 31 July 2018).
Employment basis: Full-time
Salary: £22,214 - £25,728 per annum
Post number: ZZ004184
Date published: 26 October 2017
Closing date: 23 November 2017
Interview date: 07 December 2017
The School of Engineering is seeking to appoint a research assistant (RA) to contribute to the project “Development of first in vitro protocol for bone formation from osteoregenerative biomaterials”, resulting from a collaborative effort between two research centres at the University of Portsmouth (Zeiss Global Centre: http://www.port.ac.uk/school-of-engineering/zeiss-global-centre/ and Biomaterials and Drug Delivery: http://www.port.ac.uk/school-of-pharmacy-and-biomedical-sciences/research/biomaterials-and-drug-delivery/), one at the University of Southampton (Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/chdscr/about/academics/richard_oreffo.page) and the commercial partner CellScale (http://cellscale.com/).
The project aims to develop the first in vitro protocol for bone regeneration induced by osteoregenerative biomaterials. This will be achieved through investigation of the relationship between the mechanical characteristics of the employed biomaterials and their ability to produce new bone in a biological environment. The research will provide a better understanding of bone formation when simulated physiological loading is applied, resulting in the development of optimised bone repair materials. In addition, correlative imaging combining confocal microscopy, x-ray microscopy and mechanical testing will ensure in-depth knowledge of the entire transition from cell activity to regenerated bone quality. Overall, the project will provide an initial platform aiming at substituting animal studies in the next future and representing a breakthrough methodological tool for the development of new bone treatments.
The successful candidate should have a strong background in at least two of the following areas: bioengineering, mechanobiology, x-ray/confocal microscopy, mechanical testing and biomaterial formulation. The RA will work in a dynamic environment and benefit from the existing collaborative research between partners.
The post is based at the School of Engineering, University of Portsmouth, with the appointment effective from 2nd January 2018, or as soon as possible after offer. For informal enquiries about the project please contact Dr Gianluca Tozzi at gianluca.tozzi@port.ac.uk or phone +44 (0)23 9284 2514.
Applications should be submitted via the online application system at https://port.engageats.co.uk by the closing date. It is the policy of the University to only accept applications submitted using the University’s online application system.
We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, but applications are particularly encouraged from traditionally under-represented groups in science and engineering. The University of Portsmouth holds an Athena Swan bronze award and is committed to introduce organisational and cultural practices that promote gender equality and create a better working environment for men and women.
For detailed information about the vacancy, please select this link:ZZ004184 - Research Assistant.docx