The current opportunity is available for current Manchester Met students, to apply you must be based in the UK for the duration of the role.
The current opportunity is available for current Manchester Met students; to apply you must be based in the UK and available to come on campus for the duration of the role.
The main purpose of this role is to support staff on a mechanical engineering themed research project. The project is related to developing 3D printed modular metamaterials. These metamaterials will be tested for their potential inclusion in knee braces. You will assist with research data collection and analysis. Necessary training will be provided. The project is led by Drs Tasneem Sabir and Tom Allen. It is funded by the 4D HealthTech Network+ Fund
Dates: 30 November 2026 - 21 February 2027
Hours: 16 hours per week
Location: Textile Testing Laboratory, in Manchester Fashion Institute and heavy Engineering Lab, Dalton Building, PrintCity
Key Tasks
Research Activities
The successful candidate will support the research team in various activities including:
- Supporting the design and fabrication of lattice demonstrators using additive manufacturing technologies.
- Conducting mechanical testing and data collection following established testing procedures.
- Assisting with pressure distribution and stiffness measurements using laboratory facilities and a female surrogate model.
- Recording, organising, and analysing experimental data.
- Assisting Dr Sabir with preparation of workshop materials and participant activities.
- Supporting the running of co-design workshops with end users and healthcare practitioners.
- Contributing to team meetings, research reports, presentations, and dissemination activities.
- Maintaining accurate laboratory records and following health and safety procedures.
Whilst working in the laboratory, the candidate must follow the Environment risk assessment protocols:
- Plan and prioritise own work and resources, within research project framework, in order to determine the most effective way to achieve agreed research objectives.
- Conduct literature and database searches using standard techniques and methods.
- Write up results of own research and prepare for presentation to research team and relevant stakeholders.
- Contribute to the production of research reports and publications.
- Use initiative and judgement to develop appropriate techniques in order to facilitate research work and resolve problems affecting the achievement of objectives and deadlines.
Liaison and Networking
- Present research to the team and in appropriate articles for publication, such as academic/professional journals or conferences.
- Participate in internal and external partnerships and networks in order to aid the dissemination of research findings, to share best practice, and to enhance the reputation of the University.
Service Provision
- Proactively and effectively engage with quality assurance procedures to ensure that University standards are upheld.
- Collaborate with academic colleagues on research development and future direction.
Team Working
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Actively participate as a member of the research team, offering general help and guidance to others and PhD students who may be assisting with the research project.
- Attend Faculty, Department and Programme meetings/boards as appropriate to proactively contribute to decision making.
- Introduce new starters to the area, giving training on basic skills and activities to assist their induction to the team
- Assist in the supervision of taught postgraduate and/or research students, as required, to support the development research skills.
Miscellaneous
You have a legal duty, so far as is reasonably practicable, to ensure that you do not endanger yourself or anyone else by your acts or omissions. In addition, you must cooperate with the University on health and safety matters and must not interfere or misuse anything provided for health, safety and welfare purposes.
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You are responsible for applying the University’s Equal Opportunities Policy in your own area of responsibility and in your general conduct.
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You have a responsibility to promote high levels of customer care within your own areas of work.
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Such other relevant duties commensurate with the grade of the post as may be assigned by the Manager in agreement with you. Such agreement should not be unreasonably withheld.
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You have the responsibility to engage with the University’s commitment to Environmental Sustainability in order to reduce its waste, energy consumption and carbon footprint.
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You have the responsibility to engage with the University’s commitment to delivering value for money services that optimise the use of resources and therefore should consider this when undertaking all duties and aspects of your role.