Research Assistant Professor

Applications are invited for:- 

Department of Biomedical Engineering
Research Assistant Professor
(Ref: 2600016K)( Closing Date: June 1, 2027) 

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a widely accepted top institute in Asia (e.g. ranked #7 in QS Asia University Rankings 2026) with a high degree of global academic reputation (e.g. ranked #18 in QS World University Rankings 2027). The Faculty of Engineering at CUHK is famous for its research in optics and photonics, dating back to the early 1970s when Prof Charles Kao (2009 Nobel Laureate in Physics) joined CUHK. 

The Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) is the newest in the Faculty of Engineering. Still, it has already grown into global academic excellence (world #38 in 2025 Shanghai Ranking of Academic Subjects – Biomedical Engineering) and is consistently ranked No. 1 in Hong Kong. We are inviting applications for the post of Research Assistant Professor (RAP) in BME to engage in a project related to glycosaminoglycan-rich biomaterials for musculoskeletal tissue engineering applications. The project is highly interdisciplinary, involving areas of biomaterials, extracellular matrix, stem cells, mechanoregulation and musculoskeletal disorders. 

Opportunities for Growth
The RAP position offers great opportunities for professional development, including leading independent cutting-edge research projects, mentoring postdocs and graduate students, collaborating with world-leading research groups, applying for grants and classroom teaching. 

Requirements
Applicants should (i) possess a doctoral degree in the STEM field, such as biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer engineering and applied physics; (ii) have a solid academic background in biomaterials, extracellular matrix, musculoskeletal tissue engineering and an excellent research track record; (iii) demonstrate a strong academic track record as evidenced by publishing in high-profile journals or conferences; and (iv) have proficiency in both written and spoken English. Solid postdoctoral training on carbohydrate materials is essential, but applicants with exceptional research achievements will be considered case-by-case. Experience in leading research projects independently is required, and success in research grant applications will be considered an advantage.

Research Directions
The RAP position is dedicated to working and developing glycosaminoglycan-rich biomaterials for musculoskeletal applications. This project is based on our prior foundation of complex extracellular matrix biomaterials for tissue engineering. Through the already-established collaboration, this study will pave the way for upcoming clinical translation in musculoskeletal tissue engineering and support the translation of Hong Kong’s scientific excellence into societal impacts. The specific aims and deliverables of research projects will be discussed with the PI, considering the applicant’s expertise, interests, and prior experience. 

Responsibilities
The appointee’s roles and contributions include: (a) carry on the proposed project under the lead of the PI (Prof. CHAN Barbara): specifically, the appointee will (i) coordinate the GAG-rich biomaterial program; (ii) assist in mentoring RPg students working on the project; (iii) collaborate with biologists/clinicians to explore broad applications of the project; and (iv) prepare conference/journal manuscripts and drafting patents; (b) generate high-impact research outputs that are equivalent to the 4* research output in RAE: the appointee is expected to have cross-field working experience to support the multidisciplinary nature of this project; and (c) apply for external grants from RGC/NSFC/ITC/etc.: the appointee will be fostered to be an independent researcher with a good track record of securing external grants. The research results from this project are expected to strongly support the appointee in applying for and securing external grants. 

Salary and Contract Details
Salary will be commensurate with the applicant’s qualifications and experience. Appointment will initially be made on contract basis for up to three years commencing as soon as possible, renewable subject to funding availability, performance and mutual agreement.