Postdoctoral Research Assistant in 3D Freehand Ultrasound Reconstruction at University of Oxford

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) to join the Oxford Orthopaedic Engineering Centre (OOEC) at the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of Oxford. The post is fixed-term for 1 year.

We have developed a 3D imaging and reconstruction system called CAT&MAUS (ComputerAided Tracking & Motion Analysis with Ultrasound, which uses ultrasound imaging to improve the accuracy of optoelectronic motion capture (MOCAP) in human joint studies. With the support from the EPSRC, we are now working on a project to replace MOCAP with inertial measurement units (IMUs), computer vision and machine learning and to develop a compact, low-cost system which improves outcomes for patients with joint pain and reduces the cost of care to healthcare providers.

We seek a motivated researcher to join our interdisciplinary team of engineers and clinicians working on the research and development of a system for applications in clinical orthopaedics. The successful candidate will work on a project that aims to combine tracking and mapping techniques in robotics, such as Simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) and Visual Inertial Odometry Tracking (VIO) with the CAT&MAUS framework. They will also assist with developing a proof-of-concept prototype and testing the system’s accuracy for ultrasound scanning and bone pose estimation. Your work will be co-supervised by Prof Stephen Mellon (Botnar Institute) in collaboration with Prof Maurice Fallon (Oxford Robotics Institute). You will interact with other researchers, clinical professionals and students working across the Botnar Institute and ORI.

You will have a Doctorate degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Robotics, or a related technical field or MSc or MRes degree in relevant subject. Experience with motion capture (VICON/OptiTrack), demonstrated ability to program in C/C++, Python and/or MATLAB to a high standard and track record of publications preferably in robotics or biomedical engineering themed journals are essential. Experience in the analysis of ultrasound images or other medical imaging modalities and experience in designing and developing human-computer interfaces that present and explain data visually are desirable.

This is a full-time fixed-term appointment for 12 months.

A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6: £32,332- £38,205 p.a.) with commensurate reduction in responsibilities (and amendment in job title to Research assistant if a suitable candidate cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position.

The closing date for this position 2 October 2023 You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.