ON-CAMPUS POSITIONS

POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR IN BIONIC SYSTEMS FOR INJURY PREVENTION
University of California, Los Angeles

Position Summary

The Anatomical Engineering Group (anatomics.seas.ucla.edu) at the University of California Los Angeles invites applications for a postdoctoral position to begin as soon as May 2026. This position will emphasize bionic engineering, with a focus on ACL injury prevention and post-injury reconstruction. The postdoctoral fellow will be co-advised by Prof. Tyler Clites (UCLA Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering) and Dr. David McAllister (UCLA Orthopaedic Surgery). They will join a dynamic team of engineers to develop novel implant architectures, and will work side-by-side in surgical design with orthopaedic surgeons from UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. Specific research goals will be set to align with the postdoctoral fellow’s professional aspirations, in consultation with the Principle Investigators. The fellow will have access to infrastructure and training support for biomechanical simulation, finite element modeling, mechanical testing, and relevant orthopaedic pathophysiology, among other resources.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

The successful candidate will have completed their Ph.D. in an area related to orthopedic biomechanics, gait biomechanics, and/or mechanism design and validation. Special emphasis will be placed on experience in cadaver biomechanics, implant development, and robotic mechanical testing systems (e.g. Kuka, Instron, MTS).

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Demonstrated track record in related research, strong verbal and written communication skills, a history of mentorship/leadership in research, and relevant technical skills.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Research experience and strong technical skills in biomechanical simulation, cadaver or animal experimentation, operation of mechanical testing systems (e.g. Kuka, Instron, MTS), and/or mechanism design are highly desirable. The position is funded for an initial period of 2 years with the possibility for renewal.

How to Apply

Only electronic applications will be accepted. Applicants should send an email to clites@ucla.edu with the subject line “Postdoc App: Injury Prevention”;. The email should contain a single pdf attachment titled “LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME.pdf” that includes the following: cover letter, CV, names and contact information for a minimum of three references, and a minimum of one recent publication demonstrating expertise relevant to the Postdoctoral Scholar position. Competitive candidates will be contacted for an interview. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

EEO/OA Policy

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. Additional information on policies and benefits that pertain to the Postdoctoral Scholar position is available at http://grad.ucla.edu/postdoc/.

Contact
Tyler Clites
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA 90095
clites@ucla.edu

Updated April 7, 2026