Research Software Engineer

We are seeking a full-time (80% FTE part-time considered) neuroelectronics research engineer to join the Van Rheede group at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science (Old Road Campus, Headington). The post is fixed-term for up to 4 years, the hard end date for the project is the 31st March 2031.

About The Role

You will join an interdisciplinary research team with the goal of accelerating the development of better neuromodulation therapies through enabling better preclinical research on clinically relevant time scales. You will work closely with Dr Joram van Rheede as well as with the research groups of Prof. Andrew Sharott and Prof. Timothy Denison.

You will be responsible for the development, testing and iterative improvement of an autonomous (fully embedded) battery powered closed-loop brain stimulation and recording system for preclinical research. The goal is to enable 24h+ continuous recording and stimulation in preclinical model animals (rats) in their home cage environment for research into the interaction between deep brain stimulation and sleep.

System development work will include:

1. Design of a system architecture and firmware building on prototype systems previously developed in the Sharott and Denison labs

2. Integration of new integrated brain recording and stimulation chips provided by industry partner MintNeuro

3. Design and implementation of a system form factor and exterior suitable for an existing or modified 3d printed head mount

4. Managing and balancing constraints regarding size, weight and power in the context of preclinical rat experiments

5. Working closely with laboratory technicians and preclinical neuroscience researchers to understand the user requirements and constraints for device operation

6. Validation of the device using bench testing simulations of experimental conditions and providing support for validation in animal experiments (assisted by lab animal technician / research assistant)

Additionally, you will be expected to carry out duties common to academic researchers, including contributing to scientific publications, supervision of students and junior researchers, and representing the research group at internal and external meetings and conferences.

About You

We are looking for someone motivated to make an impact on clinical neuromodulation and neuroscience research with strong academic and technical ability who wants to contribute to a positive research environment. You should have a PhD or equivalent professional/research experience in engineering, computer science, neuroscience or a closely related discipline. Additionally, you should have demonstrated experience in 1) system design for signal processing and real-time control, 2) working with embedded electronics, and 3) PCB design and debugging.

What We Offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme

• 38 days annual leave

• A comprehensive range of childcare services

• Family leave schemes

• Cycle loan scheme

• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

The University also runs an enormous number of social groups and sports clubs for those looking for more than just a great place to work.

Application Process

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Joram van Rheede: [email protected]

For more information about working at the Department, see www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/

Only online applications received before midday on the 23rd October 2026 can be considered. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, (describing how past experience fit with the advertised position), CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.