The postdoctoral researcher will play a pivotal role in the development, prototyping, and testing of a novel, integrated biosensor system for mechanical circulatory support devices (MCSDs), such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). The position is initially funded for up to 12 months with a possibility of a further 12 months extension, focusing on translational research bridging engineering, medicine, and commercialisation.
This project is part of the Research Ireland ARC Hub programme for HealthTech. The ARC Hub for HealthTech is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-2027.
Specifically, the duties of the post are:
1. Design and Prototyping
* Lead the design and prototyping of biocompatible biosensors for integration with MCSDs.
* Develop the electronic system architecture, including component selection, schematic development, and PCB layout.
* Refine biosensor designs based on iterative testing and feedback.
1. Experimental Testing
* Develop and construct benchtop rigs for in-vitro testing of biosensor prototypes.
* Conduct in-vitro experiments to evaluate biosensor performance in detecting physiological parameters such as pressure and volume.
* Oversee and participate in ex-vivo and in-vivo testing phases, including coordination with subcontractors and specialised facilities.
2. Firmware and System Integration
* Design and develop firmware architecture for biosensor operation and data acquisition.
* Integrate biosensors with MCSDs and ensure reliable data transmission and system functionality.
3. Power Supply Exploration
* Investigate and assess power supply options, including wireless charging modalities (e.g., transcutaneous energy transfer systems) for biosensor operation.
4. Intellectual Property and Commercialisation
* Take the lead in patent landscape mapping and contribute to the preparation and filing of new patent applications.
* Collaborate with commercialisation consultants on market analysis and business planning.
* Engage with industry partners and stakeholders to facilitate the translation of research outcomes toward commercialisation.
5. Reporting and Documentation
* Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to support project milestones and regulatory requirements.
* Contribute to grant writing, scientific publications, and dissemination of research findings.
* Travel for prototype assessment at various facilities, strategic partnership meetings, and presenting at conferences as required.
6. Team Collaboration and Leadership
* Work closely with the principal investigator, industry partners, and other research staff, including supervising research students.
* Engage in training and professional development to develop your career, discussed and agreed with PI without adversely affecting the primary research role.
* Potential to join the management team of a future spinout company as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) or Chief Technical Officer (CTO) upon successful project completion.
Qualifications – (Essential):
* PhD in a relevant discipline, notably, Clinical Electronic/Electrical Engineering, Biomedical/Mechanical Engineering, Medical Physics.
Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):
* Demonstrated experience with CAD software, analog and digital circuit design, PCB layout, and embedded system development.
* Proven experience in translational biomedical research, especially proof-of-concept development for medical devices, including prototyping, medical device testbed development, benchtop/laboratory testing, and device integration.
* Knowledge of sensor technologies, including pressure/volume sensors and wireless data transmission.
* Familiarity with firmware development and microcontroller programming.
* Skills in data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
* Industry experience, especially in startups, is highly desirable. Experience in commercialisation and regulatory documentation further strengthen the application.
* Knowledge of patent landscape mapping, intellectual property management, and scientific writing/publication is advantageous.
We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates from applying, so please do submit an application — we’d love to hear from you.
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