Research Scientist in Musculoskeletal Simulation (KTP Associate)

Duties of the post

• Lead the development of a digital environment that integrates musculoskeletal modelling and biomechanical principles to evaluate A&D Sports’ resistance training equipment.
• Conduct simulation studies using OpenSim and CAD models, estimating joint forces, muscle activations and movement efficiency across a range of user profiles and equipment configurations.
• Collaborate closely with A&D Sports engineers and designers to embed modelling workflows into the company’s product development cycle and support the creation of new product lines.
• Develop, document, and deliver decision-support tools that allow design teams to assess biomechanical performance of prototypes in real time.
• Upskill and train A&D Sports staff via workshops, case studies and documentation to ensure knowledge transfer and long-term sustainability of methods.
• Disseminate project outcomes through academic publications, conferences, and internal reports, contributing to both commercial impact and scientific understanding.

Key requirements

• MSc (or near completion) in Mechanical/Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanics, or a related discipline (PhD desirable).
• Strong expertise in musculoskeletal modelling (OpenSim) and ability to integrate device geometries and CAD data.
• Proficiency in MATLAB or Python for automating workflows, processing biomechanical data, and building simulation pipelines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across academic and industrial teams, with strong project management and communication skills.
• Commitment to knowledge transfer and training, with the ability to translate complex technical outputs into actionable insights for engineers and non-specialist colleagues.
• Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion principles, and ability to meet UK right-to-work requirements.

The University of Essex in partnership with A&D Sports Ltd offers an exciting opportunity to a graduate with the relevant skills and knowledge to revolutionise rehabilitation and resistance training equipment design, by creating a digital environment which uses musculoskeletal modelling and biomechanical principles to measure and prove muscle activation and joint stresses in strength training equipment.