Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Innovative Sensor Solutions for Global Health Applications

Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

PDRA (87837)

Vector Biology

Full-time, Fixed-term appointment to 31st March 2029

Based in Liverpool with occasional international travel

The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is a world-leading institution dedicated to improving health through research, education, and capacity building in tropical medicine and global health. We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated Post-Doctoral Research Associate to join our cutting-edge research team working on innovative sensor technologies aimed at addressing global health challenges.

The post holder will play a pivotal role in advancing innovative sensor technologies to address critical health challenges, working within the Infection Innovation Technology Laboratory (iiTECH). You will focus on the design, development and integration of innovative AI-powered sensor systems, such as handheld and wearable devices for detection, monitoring, and prediction of global health challenges. This role builds on a series of impactful projects undertaken by iiTECH and projects' collaborators that leverage advanced sensor technologies to address global health challenges.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with a team of international researchers, clinicians, and engineers to create new solutions that will have a significant impact on global health, with a focus on advancing innovative sensor technologies for the early detection, monitoring, and prediction of global health challenges.

Key responsibilities include:

Develop Advanced Sensor Technologies

1. Design and prototype handheld and wearable devices for early detection, monitoring, and prediction of health challenges
2. Integrate Artificial Intelligence and machine learning algorithms into sensor systems to enhance predictive accuracy
3. Conduct iterative testing and refinement of sensor designs to optimise performance and usability

Conduct Data Collection and Analysis

1. Collaborate with colleagues and field teams to collect robust datasets from diverse healthcare settings
2. Analyse sensor outputs and validate results using established gold standard methods
3. Develop predictive models to support real-time monitoring and decision-making processes

Ensure Quality Assurance and Compliance

1. Implement rigorous testing protocols to verify sensor reliability and accuracy
2. Conduct testing of developed systems to evaluate their durability and performance under various conditions
3. Ensure adherence to relevant regulatory guidelines and contribute to adapting designs to meet future certification requirements

Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration

1. Work closely with partners in academia, industry, and global health organisations to align research objectives
2. Coordinate with clinical teams to ensure technologies address user needs and healthcare priorities
3. Facilitate knowledge exchange through presentations, workshops, and collaborative meetings

Contribute to Knowledge Dissemination and Impact

1. Publish research findings in high-impact academic journals and present at international conferences
2. Contribute to translating research findings into practical applications by supporting collaborations with industry partners
3. Support capacity-building initiatives by supporting colleagues and providing training on sensor technologies
4. Identify potential sources of research funding and contribute to the process of securing funds

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work as an integral member of a multi-disciplinary, multi-national research team. You will have well-developed research skills with the ability to effectively present research findings in oral and written format. The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• A PhD in engineering, physics, biomedical sciences, or a related field with a focus on sensor technologies or healthcare applications
• Demonstrated expertise in designing and prototyping handheld or wearable sensor systems
• Proficiency in data analysis using machine learning algorithms and statistical tools
• Experience in conducting experimental validation and iterative development of technological solutions
• Strong track record of publishing research in peer-reviewed journals
• Comprehensive understanding of sensor technologies and their applications in healthcare
• Postdoctoral research experience in sensor development, wearable technology, or health-related innovation (desirable)

(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification)

In return we offer:

• 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, and additional Christmas closure days
• Generous occupational pension schemes
• Government backed "cycle to work" scheme
• Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
• A range of family friendly policies

Informal enquiries can be made to: [e-mail]

Closing Date: 20th April 2025

Application Process: To apply for the position please click on the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.

Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.

Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM

We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.

We welcome conversations about flexible working and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.

About LSTM

Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.

Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report:

Annual Report

LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies