This is a fixed-term, full-time position for 36 months.
Applicants should ideally be able to commence by 1 December 2026, although some flexibility may be possible. The role will be based in person at our Hawkshead Campus near Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, UK.
We are searching for a highly motivated, independent, multidisciplinary postdoctoral researcher who will work in the Structure & Motion Lab. You will, in coordination with internal and external collaborators, another postdoc, a technician and a research administrator as well as the project’s Principal Investigator, conduct biomechanics research investigating the evolution of locomotion in the crocodile lineage. The work will involve analyses of locomotor morphology (e.g., 3D imaging; morphometrics; phylogenetic character mapping; vertebrate palaeontology) and biomechanics (3D modelling and simulation; form-function correlations with performance; virtual robotics), and other research in the Structure & Motion Laboratory, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences.
This project is funded by the European Research Council (ERC) through the EU Horizon 2020 programme and is led by Professor John R. Hutchinson. Further information is available at: http://www.rvc.ac.uk/about/our-people/john-hutchinson
You will assist in all stages of the research. This includes collection and analysis of computational data and implementing Good Research Practice and Health and Safety. Expertise in studying vertebrate morphology with 3D imaging in an evolutionary context is essential to the project. Other skills relevant to the project (e.g., 3D biomechanical modelling and simulation; statistics; morphometrics; phylogenetic comparative methods; anatomy including dissection; vertebrate palaeontology) are desirable. Science communication is likely to be involved.
The successful candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm for research and PhD-level degree.
We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:
- Competitive and attractive pension package
- A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave
- On site café and restaurant
- Free membership to the newly built Fitness and Wellbeing Centre located on site (gym, badminton, climbing wall, Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes included)
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus
Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Professor John Hutchinson on email: jhutchinson@rvc.ac.uk
Please note: We are only able to offer visa sponsorship for this position if the successful candidate has a PhD in a relevant subject, or can be considered a new entrant.