About Position/Job
University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Assistant/Associate in Evolutionary Biomechanics for a fixed-term position funded for 36 months. The successful candidate will join the ERC Starting Grant project STEPS: Biomechanical simulations of hominin locomotion across complex terrains, led by Dr Ashleigh Wiseman in the Department of Archaeology. Running from 2025–2030, STEPS investigates how anatomical differences shaped locomotor strategies and efficiency in human evolution. The role focuses on musculoskeletal modelling, fossil analysis, and experimental biomechanics, with responsibilities including collecting and analysing biomechanical data, constructing musculoskeletal models, and contributing to movement simulations. This is a unique opportunity to work in a multinational, interdisciplinary research team, combining human evolution, comparative anatomy, and computational biomechanics, and includes research trips to the US, Kenya, and South Africa.
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Position/Job Details
- Position: Research Assistant/Associate
- Institution: University of Cambridge
- Department: Department of Archaeology, Henry Wellcome Building
- Research Field: Evolutionary Biomechanics, Human Evolution, Comparative Anatomy
- Location: Cambridge, UK
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed Term (36 months)
- Start Date (Anticipated): 16 March 2026 or ASAP thereafter
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary Range: £33,002–£46,049
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Evolutionary biomechanics
- Human locomotion and musculoskeletal modelling
- Comparative anatomy and fossil analysis
- Experimental studies of movement
- Computational simulations of bipedalism
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in evolutionary biology, biomechanics, physical/biological anthropology, or a related field
- Experience with musculoskeletal modelling, computational simulations, or experimental biomechanics
- Ability to work in interdisciplinary, international teams
- Willingness to travel for research trips to the US, Kenya, and South Africa
Preferred Qualifications:
- Expertise in fossil analysis or comparative anatomy
- Fieldwork experience in human or primate studies
- Strong analytical, collaborative, and communication skills
Key Responsibilities
- Collect and analyse biomechanical and experimental data
- Construct musculoskeletal models for simulations of human and hominin locomotion
- Contribute to movement simulations and research publications
- Participate in international research trips and experimental studies
- Collaborate with UK and international project partners
- Share data, ideas, and methodologies within the interdisciplinary team
Application Process
How to Apply
Click the ‘Apply’ button to register an account and submit your application online via the University of Cambridge recruitment system.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- References or letters of recommendation
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 28 November 2025
- Deadline: 12 January 2026 (midnight)
- Interview Date: Week commencing 9 February 2026
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Cambridge
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply now: Apply Online
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