ESBiomech24 Congress in Edinburgh

PhD in mechanistic modelling of chondrocyte-mediated destruction of hyaline cartilage in relation with subchondral bone morphology and inflammation – UPF, Barcelona

PhD in mechanistic modelling of chondrocyte-mediated destruction of hyaline cartilage in relation with subchondral bone morphology and inflammation in osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc degeneration

 

CENTER

Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Dept. of Information & Communication Technologies, DTIC-UPF

https://portal.upf.edu/es/web/etic/inicio

CENTER DESCRIPTION

The Department of Information and Communication Technologies (DTIC) of Universitat Pompeu Fabra covers a broad range of research topics: Computation and Intelligent Systems; Multimedia Technologies; Networks and Communications; Computational Biology and Biomedical Systems; and the Center of Brain and Cognition (CBC). This broad spectrum of topics reflects the current interdisciplinary reality of cutting edge research in ICT. The DTIC is now running a Maria de Maeztu Strategic Research Program on data-driven knowledge extraction, boosting synergistic research initiatives across our different research areas.

The DTIC consistently ranks among the top computer science departments in Spain (e.g. the only computer science department from an Spanish university that has even been included in the top 100 of the Shanghai Ranking).

Its PhD program offers advanced training in this interdisciplinary field, becoming an innovative and unique program in Spain. The DTIC PhD program has been growing steadily and currently hosts about 140 PhD students and 40 supervisors. The program received a Mention of Excellence award from the Ministry of Science and Innovation in 2011.

The UPF university was awarded in 2010 the distinction of International Excellence Campus by the Spanish Ministry of Education and it is widely considered to be one of the best universities in Spain (e.g. is the top Spanish university according to 2013 Times Higher Education Ranking).

The UPF is located in Barcelona. Its excellent location on the shores of the Mediterranean, its gentle climate, its open, cosmopolitan character, its gastronomy and architecture make Barcelona an extraordinary place to live. The DTIC is sited in UPF’s Communication Campus, which was opened in 2009 and is located within the vibrant 22@ technological district of Barcelona.

Indicators:  

  • Research incomes: 15.6 M€ / year
  • 67 FP7 projects participated and coordinated by 26 staff members (> 60% UPF EU funds) including 13 prestigious ERC Grants, the Human Brain Project
  • Leader in Spain with  > 5% of all the competitive funds obtained by Spanish Universities, Maria de Maeztu Strategic Program.
  • Consolidated scientific productivity ~200 articles/year, > 75% Q1 international journals
  • 50% scientific papers and articles with at least one international collaborator
ADDRESS

Roc Boronat, 138 – edifici Tànger, 08018 Barcelona, Barcelona

GROUP DISCIPLINES

Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering Panel

GROUP LEADER

Dr.Jerôme Noailly

jerome.noailly@upf.edu

https://www.upf.edu/web/bcn-medtech

POSITION DESCRIPTION
-Research Project / Research Group Description:

The proposed PhD will involve the Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (BMMB) and the Machine Learning for Personalised Medicine areas of BCN MedTech. BCN MedTech focuses on biomedical integrative research, including mathematical and computational models, algorithms and systems for computer-aided diagnosis and treatment of health problems. It has 60 full time researchers working on computational simulations, image analyses, signal processing, machine learning, and biomedical electronics.

Early cartilage degradation in osteochondral systems is poorly understood. In early osteoarthritis (OA), new theories point out the involvement of subchondral bone structural and mechanical changes [1]. In the IVD, the hyaline cartilage adjacent to the subchondral bone shows the first signs of ageing [2], and numerical explorations by the BMMB team have pointed out that specific subchondral bone structures induce above-average fluid velocities in the adjacent cartilage [3]. Thanks to the coupling of continuum tissue models and cell biology models, the BMMB team has recently demonstrated that early degradation of the IVD osteochondral layer is likely to result in the propagation of degenerative changes in the organ [4].

Accordingly, this project will explore new common paradigms of early OA and IVD degeneration processes through mechanistic modelling of the relationships among tissue interstitial fluid flow, chondrocyte mechanostimulation, inflammation and cartilage extracellular matrix turnover. It will involve finite element poromechanical models, and agent-based models of chondrocyte biological activity in different physical and biochemical environments. Model assessment will be achieved through experimental data on articular cartilage biology and multiphysics in OA patients, though an ongoing collaborative project with the Hospital del Mar, and though collaborations with the Universites of Zaragoza and Liège. Simulation results will be analysed through interpretable machine learning techniques.

-Job position description:

The successful candidate will work in a highly international environment in interaction with biomechanicians, biologists and computer scientists. He/She will be in charge of developing an intracellular network model for the simulation of chondrocyte mechanosensitivity in different inflammatory and nutritional environments, based on generic systems biology Boolean models. He/She will also handle multiphysics poromechanical models of the cartilage tissue matrix available at UPF to simulate the mechanical environment of the chondrocytes, simulated as agents. Sensitivity analyses, model evaluation and result interpretation will involve state-of-the-art techniques for model uncertainty evaluation and parameter/result classifications through in-house interpretable machine learning theories. He/She will actively participate to internal research seminars and international conferences in fields related with biomedical engineering, biomechanics, systems biology and rheumatology.

Candidates are expected to have a bachelor and master degrees in biomedical engineering, physics, applied mathematics or any related fields. They should be able to work in a team environment and have good communication skills. Proficient English is mandatory. For any inquiry, please contact Dr Jerome Noailly: Jerome.noailly@upf.edu

References
[1] Li, G. et al, 2013. Arthritis Res. Ther. 15, 223. doi:10.1186/ar4405
[2] Benneker, L.M., et al, 2005. Eur. Spine J. 14, 27–35. doi:10.1007/s00586-004-0759-4
[3] Malandrino, A., et al, 2014. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 22, 1053–60. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2014.05.005
[4] Baumgartner L., et al, 2017. Altered cell activity in the intervertebral disc transition zone due to early cartilage endplate degeneration. 23rd Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, 2-3 July 2017, Seville, Spain

Application (through “La Caixa” Foundation online system)

https://www.lacaixafellowships.org/index.aspx

Contact for inquiries and support: jerome.noailly@upf.edu

PhD position @ University of Portsmouth: 4D microCT evaluation and digital volume correlation of alloys for bone regeneration

4D microCT evaluation and digital volume correlation (DVC) of Mg-based alloys for bone regeneration

Project Description

Start date: 01 February 2018
Application deadline: 31 December 2017
Interview date: week commencing the 15th January 2018Applications are invited for a fully-funded, three-year PhD studentship at the University of Portsmouth, to commence at the beginning of February, 2018. This PhD is in collaboration with Botiss Biomaterials and the successful applicant will get the opportunity to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team that brings together expertise in biomaterials for bone tissue regeneration, X-ray computed tomography (XCT), in situ mechanical testing and digital volume correlation (DVC). The candidate will benefit from support in Biomechanical Imaging available at the Zeiss Global Centre (ZGC) in the School of Engineering. Professor Gordon Blunn (University of Portsmouth) and Dr Mike Barbeck (Botiss Biomaterials) complete the supervisory team.

Project
Mg-based biomaterlals are able to provide structural support in load-bearing regions and allow bone regeneration to take place over time. However, uncontrolled degradation rate in vivo could result in insufficient mechanical stability during regeneration. Recently, high-resolution microCT imaging combined with in situ mechanical testing (4D evaluation) and digital volume correlation (DVC) allowed a detailed assessment of local microdamage progression, as well as the quantification of 3D deformation in bone-biomaterial systems. However, to date the mechanical competence of Mg-bone integration in vivo is still unknown. The aim of this project is to investigate how the mechanical behaviour of Mg-based implants is influenced by dissolution time and osteoregeneratlon performance. The project will ultimately produce fundamental knowledge aiming at fully establishing Mg-based alloys in the clinical context, through the development of a new generation of products for orthopaedic applications.

Candidate specification
Applications from candidates with a background in biomechanics, biomaterials, X-ray tomography, mechanical testing or related subject areas are welcomed. The successful applicant will receive adequate training and support to develop the necessary skills for a successful completion of the programme. We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed candidate with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills.

Fees
The fully-funded, full-time three-year studentship provides a stipend that is in line with that offered by Research Councils UK of £14,553 per annum as well as a waiver of tuition fees. The successful candidate will also receive full access to the University’s Graduate School Development Programme, research training, and internal qualifications that enable applications for Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

Enquiries and application
Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be made to Dr Gianluca Tozzi on +44 (0)23 9284 2514 or via email at .

You can apply online by submitting your CV, two references and copies of any relevant qualifications. Please quote the project code – ENGN3861217- when prompted. In your application, please indicate your motivation for applying for the post and also outline how your experience and skill-set will contribute to the project. If English is not your first language, please provide evidence of IELTS (score of 6.5, with no component falling below 6.0).

Funding Notes

The fully-funded full-time studentship provides three years of support to cover tuition fees, and a stipend that is in line with that offered by Research Councils UK of £14,553 per annum.

ERC-Funded PhD Position in Computational Modelling of Bone Adaptation and Regeneration – ETHZ

The Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics headed by Prof. Ralph Müller at the Department of Health Sciences & Technology, Institute for Biomechanics at ETH Zurich is offering an
ERC-Funded PhD Position in Computational Modelling of Bone Adaptation and Regeneration
The aim of the research is to develop computational models of bone adaptation and regeneration incorporating data from the cellular to the organ scale. A range of computational models exist which propose a variety of mechanisms by which bone is adapting and regenerating at both tissue and the cell level. Simulations become especially useful when examining complex mechanically driven systems such as the bone remodeling process and therefore have been gaining momentum in the scientific community. Unfortunately, the insight, which can be provided by cell or tissue level models, is limited, while the two systems remain unlinked and validation with detailed cell-level data are still lacking. Within this position, therefore, novel computational tools will be developed to simulate the mechanoregulation in bone associated with adaptation and regeneration. A multiscale model will be developed combining three types of computer models: Boolean networks to model interaction between molecules and cells; cellular automaton to model bone microstructure; and micro-finite element analysis to calculate mechanical tissue loading; the mechanical signal for the bone cells. In the end, these simulations will be compared to in vivo data from an animal experimental study. This PhD project is embedded in a larger group effort funded by the European Research Council (ERC) through an ERC Advanced Grant called MechAGE, which aims to investigate in vivo single-cell mechanomics of bone adaptation and regeneration in the aging mouse.
The successful candidate holds or will soon receive a master’s degree in Computational Science and Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Applied Mathematics, preferably with some background in computational modelling with cellular automaton and Boolean networks. It is essential that the candidate is willing and motivated to work on the foundations of biological computer modelling and simulation. Additionally, excellent communication skills in English (oral and written) are required.

We look forward to receiving your online application including a motivation letter, CV, university transcripts and names and contact details of two references. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For further information about the group please visit our website www.bone.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Patrik Christen by email patrik.christen[at]hest.ethz.ch.

To apply please visit https://apply.refline.ch/845721/5785/.

PhD position in Biomechanics – Karl Landsteiner University of Health Science

 

Established in 2013, the Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences (KL) is part of an academic and research community located at the Campus Krems, and includes a network of comprising teaching hospitals in St. Pölten, Krems and Tulln. The university offers degree programmes in Human Medicine, Psychotherapy, Counselling Sciences and Psychology, which are tailored to the requirements of the Bologna model, opening the door to new, cutting-edge health professions. KL is committed to raising its profile in specific areas of biomedicine, biomedical engineering, and biopsychosocial sciences by entering into strategic academic and research partnerships with other institutions.

Starting at January 2018, the department of anatomy and biomechanics (division of biomechanics, Prof. Dieter Pahr, dieter.pahr@kl.ac.at) offers a research position, which is limited to the duration of three years:

PhD Position in Biomechanics

Your responsibilities:

  • Participation in the funded research projects
  • In more detail, using of micro CT imaging, biomechanical testing, finite element simulations, and 3d printing
  • Programming of evaluation- and analysis scripts
  • Assistance in teaching in the fields of mathematics, physics, informatics and biomedical engineering
  • Engagement in other research projects

Your profile:

  • Degree in civil or mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, technical physics, or similar fields
  • Basic knowledge in programming, biomechanics, imaging (CT), experimental material characterization
  • Good English skills
  • Skills in script programming as well as experience in finite elements simulations of advantage
  • The willingness to support teaching, experience is of advantage
  • Self-responsible and reliable working approach
  • Interest on scientific working and writing a dissertation thesis
  • Friendly and team oriented personality

Your perspective:

  • You can expect a challenging job in an internationally recognized and highly motivated team

Research Topics

  • Biomechanical characterization and FEA simulations in the field of endochondral ossification for bone regeneration
  • Biomechanical investigation of the degradation behavior and FEA simulation in the field of biodegradable magnesium alloys for implants

 

The Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences is dedicated to achieving a balanced mix of male and female academic and non-academic staff. Consequently, applications from female candidates are particularly welcome. The minimum gross salary for this position is € 2,045. Overpayment based on the internal salary structure and individual qualifications and experience is possible.

 

Applications should include a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, and credentials and should be mailed by 19. November 2017 to Ms. Christina Schwaiger of the Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences,

Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems, Austria (bewerbung@kl.ac.at).

The division of biomechanics is constantly looking for pre-doc candidates. Therefore, we also accept unsolicited applications after the deadline.

Research Assistant (Postdoc) position @ University of Portsmouth in bone regeneration

The School of Engineering is seeking to appoint a research assistant (RA) to contribute to the project “Development of first in vitro protocol for bone formation from osteoregenerative biomaterials”, resulting from a collaborative effort between two research centres at the University of Portsmouth (Zeiss Global Centre: http://www.port.ac.uk/school-of-engineering/zeiss-global-centre/ and Biomaterials and Drug Delivery: http://www.port.ac.uk/school-of-pharmacy-and-biomedical-sciences/research/biomaterials-and-drug-delivery/), one at the University of Southampton (Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/chdscr/about/academics/richard_oreffo.page) and the  commercial partner CellScale (http://cellscale.com/).

The project aims to develop the first in vitro protocol for bone regeneration induced by osteoregenerative biomaterials. This will be achieved through investigation of the relationship between the mechanical characteristics of the employed biomaterials and their ability to produce new bone in a biological environment. The research will provide a better understanding of bone formation when simulated physiological loading is applied, resulting in the development of optimised bone repair materials. In addition, correlative imaging combining confocal microscopy, x-ray microscopy and mechanical testing will ensure in-depth knowledge of the entire transition from cell activity to regenerated bone quality. Overall, the project will provide an initial platform aiming at substituting animal studies in the next future and representing a breakthrough methodological tool for the development of new bone treatments.

The successful candidate should have a strong background in at least two of the following areas: bioengineering, mechanobiology, x-ray/confocal microscopy, mechanical testing and biomaterial formulation. The RA will work in a dynamic environment and benefit from the existing collaborative research between partners.

The post is based at the School of Engineering, University of Portsmouth, with the appointment effective from 2nd January 2018, or as soon as possible after offer. For informal enquiries about the project please contact Dr Gianluca Tozzi at gianluca.tozzi@port.ac.uk or phone +44 (0)23 9284 2514.

Applications should be submitted via the online application system at https://port.engageats.co.uk by the closing date. It is the policy of the University to only accept applications submitted using the University’s online application system.

We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, but applications are particularly encouraged from traditionally under-represented groups in science and engineering. The University of Portsmouth holds an Athena Swan bronze award and is committed to introduce organisational and cultural practices that promote gender equality and create a better working environment for men and women.

For detailed information about the vacancy, please select this link:ZZ004184 – Research Assistant.docx

PhD position with focus on muscle and tendon adaptation in youth athletes, Berlin, Germany

The Berlin School of Movement Science (BSMS), graduate school of the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, is offering a

PhD position with focus on muscle and tendon adaptation in youth athletes

for a period of 3 (4) years hosted at the Department of Training and Movement Sciences of the same university starting in January 2018.

Project description
The purpose of the research project focuses on the adaptation of muscle and tendon in youth athletes. In young, growing athletes, the development of muscle and tendon tissue is influenced both by maturation and mechanical loading. Recent evidence suggests that the interaction of these two driving stimuli could increase increased the risk of developing imbalances between the strength capacity of muscles during adolescence. However, to date no information is available on the effect of maturation and training in prepubertal children. Therefore, it is important to deepen our understanding of muscle and tendon adaptation during prepubertal maturation, not only with regard to the properties of the muscle-tendon unit as a determinant of sports performance, but also in respect of injury prevention.

The project aims to determine the development of muscle strength and architecture, and tendon mechanical properties of the plantar flexor and knee extensor muscle-tendon unit in prepubertal athletes and untrained children. Joint moments will be determined using dynamometry, inverse dynamics and electromyography, while muscle architecture and tendon elongation will be assessed using ultrasonography.

We are looking for a PhD candidate who is interested in muscle and tendon biomechanics and the development of the musculotendinous system.

Qualifications
– Candidates should hold an MSc or equivalent in Sports Science, Biomechanics, Engineering, Biology or Medical Sciences.
– A very good biomechanical background, together with direct experience in dynamometry and ultrasonography.
– Previous work human muscle architecture and tendon biomechanics in vivo will
constitute an important reason for preference.
– Strong experience in the use of programming languages such as R or MATLAB are desired.
– Very good knowledge of the English language in speaking and writing is required.

Eligibility
– With the beginning of the scholarship the Master or equivalent studies must be completed.
– The latest degree may not date back longer than 6 years.
– At the time of the nomination the candidate may not be in Germany for more than 15 months.
– During the scholarship period, staying abroad is limited to 9 months in total and no longer than 3 months per year.

The position is funded with a DAAD scholarship (Graduate School Scholarship Programme) and it includes:
– Monthly scholarship of 1000.00 €.
– Health, accident and liability insurance.
– Funding of a German language course (2, 4 or 6 months).

Application procedure
The application can only be submitted electronically. It should be written in English and must contain the following:
– Letter of motivation
– Detailed curriculum vitae
– Letter of recommendation by two university professors from the home university, issued during the last 2 years (see the DAAD form attached)
– Copies of certificates or copies of translated documents:
o Copy of the school leaving certificate qualifying for admission to higher education in your own country
o Copies of certificates of annual examinations taken at the home university (transcripts of records)
o Copies of certificates of any academic degrees or advanced qualifications showing grades and explain the home’s grading system

– Certificates of internships (when available)
– The master thesis (or equivalent) and any publications or manuscripts

Contact information for this position
Dr. Falk Mersmann (falk.mersmann@hu-berlin.de, +49 (0) 30 2093 46010)
We invite you to apply before the 31st October 2017. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. Please send your application document via email to: falk.mersmann@hu-berlin.de

The Department of Training and Movement Sciences at the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin provides basic and applied research in the areas of training and movement sciences as well as biomechanics. Our main research fields include adaptation mechanisms of mechanical and morphological properties of muscles and tendons, plasticity of movement control and interaction between the neuronal and musculoskeletal systems in order to increase human performance and improve life quality.

PhD position with focus on the human neuromuscular function, Berlin, Germany

The Berlin School of Movement Science (BSMS), graduate school of the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, is offering a

PhD position with focus on the human neuromuscular function during perturbed movement

for a period of 3 (4) years hosted at the Department of Training and Movement Sciences of the same university starting in January 2018.

Project description

The purpose of the research project focuses on the neural control of the lower limb muscle-tendon unit function during perturbed motion in humans. According to daily life situations,

perturbation paradigms may be continuous and/or acute as well as unexpected and/or predictable. Different perturbations will be induced electro-mechanically by drops in surface height during contact phases of cyclic locomotion and acyclic movements (e.g. jumping) to challenge the system in different configurations of loading and muscle intrinsic properties (force-length-velocity relationship).

To investigate how the central nervous system organizes and uses specific muscle activation patterns (the so-called muscle synergies) to control the muscle-tendon unit behaviour and, thus, global stability, three techniques will be used. First, the electromyographic activity of relevant lower limb muscles will be measured and using a non-negative matrix factorization algorithm the muscle synergies will be extracted. Second, ultrasonography and kinematic analysis will be combined to assess vastus lateralis and gastrocnemius medialis muscle fascicles as well as respective muscle-tendon unit length. Lastly, the local dynamic stability will be estimated using the concept of the Lyapunov exponents.

We are looking for a PhD candidate interested in investigating the neurophysiological and muscle mechanical aspects underlying human motor control of perturbed movements.

Qualifications
– Candidates should hold an MSc or equivalent in Biomechanics, Engineering,
Mathematics or Sport Engineering
– A very good mathematics and physics background, together with direct experience in
signal processing are required.
– Previous work on measurements of surface electromyographic activity,
muscle/tendon ultrasonography and/or dynamic stability will constitute an important reason for preference.
– Strong experience in the use of programming languages such as R or MATLAB.
– Very good knowledge of the English language in speaking and writing is required.

Eligibility
– With the beginning of the scholarship the Master or equivalent studies must be
completed.
– The latest degree may not date back longer than 6 years.
– At the time of the nomination the candidate may not be in Germany for more than 15 months.
– During the scholarship period, staying abroad is limited to 9 months in total and no longer than 3 months per year.

The position is funded with a DAAD scholarship (Graduate School Scholarship Programme) and it includes:
– Monthly scholarship of 1000.00 €.
– Health, accident and liability insurance.
– Funding of a German language course (2, 4 or 6 months).

Application procedure
The application can only be submitted electronically. It should be written in English and must contain the following:
– Letter of motivation
– Detailed curriculum vitae
– Letter of recommendation by two university professors from the home university, issued during the last 2 years (see the DAAD form attached)
– Copies of certificates or copies of translated documents:

o Copy of the school leaving certificate qualifying for admission to higher
education in your own country
o Copies of certificates of annual examinations taken at the home university
(transcripts of records)
o Copies of certificates of any academic degrees or advanced qualifications
showing grades and explain the home’s grading system

– Certificates of internships (when available)
– The master thesis (or equivalent) and any publications or manuscripts

Contact information for this position
Dr. Sebastian Bohm (sebastian.bohm (at) hu-berlin.de, +49 (0) 30 2093 46010)
We invite you to apply before the 31st October 2017. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. Please send your application document via email to: sebastian.bohm (at) hu-berlin.de

The Department of Training and Movement Sciences at the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin provides basic and applied research in the areas of training and movement sciences as well as biomechanics. Our main research fields include adaptation mechanisms of mechanical and morphological properties of muscles and tendons, plasticity of movement control and interaction between the neuronal and musculoskeletal systems in order to increase human performance and improve life quality.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Bone and Joint Biomechanics, Sheffield, UK

Job Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Bone and Joint Biomechanics

Description:
A PostDoc position for a highly motivated research scientist to work on a study
funded by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction
of the usage of animals in research (NC3Rs).
The project aims to enhance the assessment of bone and joint properties in
preclinical studies (mouse models), by combining longitudinal high-resolution
imaging, advanced image processing and computational modelling to non-
invasively measure bone strength from the in vivo images. In this project the
post-holder will create and validate computational models for the prediction of
bone strength at each time point in mice scanned with in vivo microCT that allows for high-resolution scans of the mice tibia. Moreover, the post-holder will adapt our protocols to study in details bone changes in the mouse knee to evaluate the effect of OA. Finally, they will be involved in the design and creation of an online service that measures automatically the bone properties in different portions of the tibia and that can be used worldwide by other researchers.
The post will be based at the Insigneo Institute for In silico Medicine and the
Mellanby Centre for Bone Research in Sheffield. Applicants should hold a PhD in
Engineering, Physics or related disciplines (or being close to submit), be familiar
with experimental, imaging, image processing and computational modelling
techniques for assessment of bone properties. Willingness to use the developed
skills towards the 3Rs is essential. The post is full time for 30 months. The post
holder will report to Dr Enrico Dall’Ara.

Contact: e.dallara@sheffield.ac.uk
Start position: 1 st Dec 2017
Duration: 30 months
Closing application: 24 th October 2017

Link Application (use in Keywords: “UOS017290”):
https://jobs.shef.ac.uk/sap/bc/webdynpro/sap/hrrcf_a_unreg_job_search?sap-client=400&sap-syscmd=nocookie&sap-wd-configId=ZHRRCF_A_UNREG_JOB_SEARCH&sap-
ie=edge&utm_source=university%20website&utm_medium=link&utm_content=jobs&utm_campaign=jobs-link#

Salary: Grade 7; £30,175 to £38,183 per annum

PhD in computational spine biomechanics and ASD patient stratification @ DTIC-UPF, Barcelona, Spain

Host institution and work environment

The Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) was established in 1990 in Barcelona as a public university with a strong dedication to excellence in research and teaching. It is the 1st Spanish university in teaching and research performance (U-Ranking, BBVA Foundation & Ivie, 2016), in terms of quality output, normalized impact and percentage of collaborative papers with international institutions (Scimago 2014).

DTIC is the UPF ICT department. It was created in 2009 and has an important track record of active participation in international projects (66 FP7 and 20 H2020 projects up to now). DTIC is the Spanish university department with the largest number of ERC grants (19 from FP7 on), and it has been awarded the “Maria de Maeztu” excellence award by the Spanish government for the quality and relevance of its pioneering scientific research.

The proposed PhD will take place at DTIC as a collaborative project between the Biomechanics and Mechanobiology and the Medical Imaging Analysis research areas of BCN MedTech. BCN MedTech (http://bcn-medtech.upf.edu/) is the Barcelona Centre for New Medical Technologies at UPF. Its focus is on biomedical integrative research, including mathematical and computational models, algorithms and systems for computer-aided diagnosis and treatment of health problems. It has a team of 60 full time researchers working on computational simulations, medical image analyses, signal processing, machine learning, computer-assisted surgery and biomedical electronics.

 

The project

The successful candidate will work on the modelling of adult spine deformity (ASD), focussing on patient-specific modelling techniques and intelligent analyses of biomechanical simulation outcomes in ASD patient cohorts. The project is a collaboration among UPF, the Instituto Ortopedico Galeazzi (Milan, Italy), the Hospital del Mar (Barcelona, Spain) and the Hospital de Vall d’Hebron (Barcelona, Spain). It will combine patient data with statistical shape modelling, finite element analyses and machine learning techniques to infer on the physical rationales that lay behind current clinical classifications of ASD patients.

The PhD thesis will be funded full time for a period of four years and will be co-supervised by Dr Jérôme Noailly and Prof Miguel Ángel González Ballester (UPF), and by Dr Fabio Galbusera (Instituto Ortopedico Galeazzi).

 

Requirements and application

Candidates are expected to have a Bachelor and Master in Physics, Applied mathematics, Biomedical engineering or in related fields. Proficient English is necessary. Applications should be sent by email to Dr Jérôme Noailly (jerome.noailly@upf.edu) and to Dr Fabio Galbusera (fabio.galbusera@grupposandonato.it) and should include a full CV, letter of motivation, Bachelor and Master academic transcripts and the contact of two referees.

PhD Position at EMPA (CH) in Biomechanics

Empa – the place where innovation starts
Empa is the research institute for materials science and technology of the ETH Domain and conducts cutting-edge research for the benefit of industry and the well-being of society.

Our Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures is looking for a PhD Student in the field of Biomechanics

Your Tasks
You will work on a research project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation that will contribute to the understanding of deformation and failure of bone on the microscale and its impact on whole bone strength. You will be enrolled in a doctoral program at ETH Zürich and exploit the micromechanical yield- and postyield properties of bone on the level of the extracellular matrix. During the course of the project, you will be involved in sample preparation, micromechanical experiments at different environmental conditions, electron microscopic imaging, Raman spectroscopy, as well as data analysis and interpretation.

The project is initiated in cooperation with Prof. Edoardo Mazza of the Institute of Mechanical Systems of ETH Zürich.

Your Profile
You must hold a Master’s or an equivalent Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science. A high motivation to work at the leading edge of measurement science and to work in international, multidisciplinary research teams is essential. Knowledge of English (oral and written) is important and knowledge of German would be an advantage. Experience in nanomechanical testing techniques like nanoindentation, electron microscopy based techniques as well as programming (e.g. Matlab, Labview, Python) is desirable.

For further information about the position please contact Dr. Jakob Schwiedrzik, jakob.schwiedrzik@empa.ch or Dr. Johann Michler, johann.Michler@empa.ch and visit our website www.empa.ch/web/s206 and Empa-Video

We look forward to receiving your online application including a letter of motivation, CV, diplomas with transcript and contact details of two referees. Please upload the requested documents through our webpage https://apply.refline.ch/673276/0889/pub/1/index.html.
Applications via email will not be considered.


Corporate members of the ESB:

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Materialise logo
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