Durham University
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Biomechanics

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Biomechanics
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Bioengineering
About the Department
The Department of Engineering at Durham University is recognised as one of the very best in the UK. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), the Department achieved:
- 95% of its publications rated as 3/4**
- All impact case studies graded 3/4**
The department showcases significant research excellence across multiple disciplines, with current focus areas in three Research Challenges:
- Sustainable Infrastructure
- Future Energy Systems
- Advanced Materials, Electronics and Communications
Additionally, research is grouped under eight Research Nodes, based on technical expertise and shared interests.
The Department thrives on collaborative, interdisciplinary research, supported by strong partnerships with industry. Its strategic vision includes growth over the next five years, with enhancements to the research portfolio and enrichment of:
- Undergraduate provision
- Postgraduate taught programmes
- Postgraduate research opportunities
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
The department values an open, supportive, collegial, and diverse culture, advancing this mission through:
- The Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Committee
- Its Athena Swan Silver Award
The Role
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) in Bioengineering at Durham University.
About the Position
We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with expertise in:
- Biomechanics
- Finite element modelling (FEM)
- Medical image processing
- Additive manufacturing (AM)
This role will be conducted in close collaboration with Alma Mater Bologna and Great Ormond Street Hospital and is funded by the Academy of Medical Sciences.
- Fixed-term contract (21 months)
- Start date: 1/10/2026
- End date: 30/6/2028
- Ideal start: 1/10/2026
Project Overview
Title: "Biomechanical Design of Patient-Specific Fixation Methods for Mandibular Reconstruction Surgery"


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Project Goals
The project aims to develop patient-specific mandibular fixation methods for reconstruction surgery, tailoring the shape and mechanical properties of implants (such as miniplates and reconstruction plates) using additive manufacturing (AM). The goal is to optimise outcomes for long-term surgical success.
Key Objectives
- Finite Element Modelling (FEM) coupled with Design of Experiments (DoE) will guide the design of miniplates.
- Mechanobiological models of bone healing will be adjusted to create a robust predictive framework for patient-specific surgical outcomes.
- The validated model will help assess the performance of different fixation methods for mandibular reconstruction.
- A protocol for personalised, metal 3D-printed miniplates will be designed and experimentally validated.
The successful candidate should align with these objectives while delivering innovative research outcomes.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location