The 27th Congress of ESB will be held in Porto, Portugal. The congress will take place at the Alfandega Porto Congress Center, situated in the heart of Porto’s historic city centre, from 26-29 June 2022.
For more information esbiomech2022.org.
We are looking forward to receiving your contributions and to welcoming you at ESB2022 in Porto!
Localisation: ENSAM – Paris Campus
Practical information:
Position available from: 01/01/2025
Lab : Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak
Emploi de catégorie: A
Fixed term contract: 12 months, full-time
Remote working: non-teleworking position
Contract type: Post-doc
Salary range (depending on experience and profile): 27k to 34k
ENSAM has an active policy to support and promote equality, diversity and inclusion within its communities.
We encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and all our positions are open to people with disabilities.
Candidature :
CV, motivation letter, letter of recommendation, reports of the PhD defense, to be sent by e-mail to:
GAJNY Laurent : Laurent.Gajny@ensam.eu
HR questions? Just one address: Jecandidate@ensam.eu
Who are we ?
Since it was founded in 1780, the Ecole Nationale Supérieure Arts et Métiers (YouTubeLink) has been committed to meeting the ever-changing challenges facing industry and society.
A public scientific, cultural and professional establishment (EPSCP) under the sole supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, it comprises eight campuses and three institutes spread across the country.
Its primary mission is to train engineers capable of designing environmentally-friendly products and systems, as well as controlling industrial organisation while keeping risks and costs under control.
Work environment
The Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak (IBHGC, Arts et Métiers, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord), which was set up in 1979 and now has over 50 permanent staff, has made the strategic choice to focus on the osteoarticular and musculoskeletal systems, and to explore this system in a variety of ways towards subject-specific modeling of the human body.
The IBHGC is developing research into the geometric and mechanical modelling of the neuromusculoskeletal system, the experimental in vitro characterisation of this system and the development of quantitative methods for exploring living organisms, with the motto ‘Better understanding for better innovation, at the service of patients and society’.
The project behind this grant is the result of collaboration with UMRS 1158 ‘Experimental and clinical respiratory neurophysiology’ at Sorbonne University and the R3S department (‘respiration, réanimation, réhabilitation, sommeil’) at the Pitié-Salpêtrière Charles Foix Hospital Group.
The team is composed by :
Valérie Attali (MD-PhD), pulmonologist, UMRS1158 Experimental and Clinical Respiratory Neurophysiology, Inserm – Sorbonne University.
Baptiste Sandoz (PhD, HDR), Associate professor, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers Sciences et Technologies.
Damien Bachasson (PhD, HDR), INSERM research fellow, UMRS1158 Experimental and Clinical Respiratory Neurophysiology, Inserm – Sorbonne University.
Claudio Vergari (PhD, HDR), professor, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers Sciences et Technologies.
Laurent Gajny (PhD), Associate professor, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers Sciences et Technologies.
Missions
Working at the Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak and reporting to the Director, you will take part in the ANR BIO-DIAPHRAGME project: “Imaging the diaphragm and biomechanical biomarkers of postural dysfunction in chronic respiratory diseases”. The aim of this research project is to explore the neuro-mechanical coupling between the postural and respiratory systems, focusing on the essential role of the diaphragm. It focuses particularly on patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a respiratory disease that progressively alters lung function and posture.
As part of this interdisciplinary project, your mission will be to develop and evaluate a three-dimensional method for reconstructing the shape of the diaphragm using two X-rays of the face and profile in the standing position, in consultation with the project’s multidisciplinary scientific team.
Activities
Your activities will include:
– Automatic or semi-automatic segmentation of the diaphragm on 3D imaging data (scanner, MRI).
– Definition and parameterisation of an average 3D model of the diaphragm.
– Development of a method for automatic analysis of face and profile X-rays: segmentation and annotation of anatomical landmarks.
– Development of a method for deforming the average model on data obtained from face and profile X-rays.
– Assessment of the accuracy of the proposed method.
Aim
The aim of this post is to provide an operational method for personalised three-dimensional reconstruction of the diaphragm in order to investigate potential biomechanical biomarkers of postural dysfunction in chronic respiratory diseases.
Desired profile / Skills required
– Solid programming skills, particularly in image analysis and deep learning are expected.
– Solid mathematical skills, particularly in geometry and numerical analysis, are also expected.
– A good level in mechanics, or even biomechanics, would be a plus.
– Operational know-how
– Adopt a quality approach to programming
Personal skills
– Curious, particularly about health issues, sociable.
– You also have good listening and adaptation skills.
Practical information
Experience: Young researcher (PhD)
Languages: French/English
Academic level: Bac + 8 (PhD in computer science/computer vision, biomedical engineering or biomechanics)
Keywords
Advantages
Joining Ensam means benefiting from a socially committed working environment:
– Up to 50 days’ leave in your first year, depending on your work pattern
– Mutual insurance contribution of €15/month
– 75% contribution to public transport costs
– Sustainable mobility package
– Canteen, leisure, sport and culture offers
Your personal data
ENSAM processes your personal data in accordance with the RGPD and the French Data Protection Act.
This processing is carried out for the purposes of managing your application and assessing your skills in relation to the post/internship for which you are applying.
If you wish to exercise your rights regarding your personal data, you may contact ENSAM’s Data Protection Officer at dpo@ensam.eu
For full details of the data collected by ENSAM and how your data is processed, you can consult ENSAM’s personal data protection policy HERE.
Two vacancies are available for ambitious individuals to join Maastricht University as part of the ERC STG project “AUTOMATHIC”. This 5-year interdisciplinary project aims to perform cutting-edge research in developing new methodologies for the automated modeling of the dynamic behavior of large biological networks. The project also involves engaging with national and international stakeholders.
In silico models aim to capture and elucidate the complex and emergent interactions of biological systems, with the goal of expediting research and potential clinical translation. For example, ordinary differential equation (ODE) models of toxin and drug transport are being developed to bring safer therapies to chronic kidney disease patients. Despite recent progress, these cutting-edge ODEs only model transport in steady state and remain limited regarding the amount and complexity of dynamic transport mechanisms as it is often not clear which kinetic relation is most suitable. This limitation is due to the manual and labor-intensive approaches to construct the ODEs, which critically hinder their application in quantitative toxicity assessment in key industrial settings like drug development. In AUTOMATHIC, we aim to develop an integrated framework for automated ODE structure identification, parameter estimation and model evaluation and explore the capabilities of the developed framework for toxin and drug transport in the kidney.
More information can be found here:
PhD Position: Framework for automated ODE model construction Job Details | Maastricht University
Short Description
– Are you eager to develop innovative regenerative fusion technologies to treat back pain?
– Are you inspired to push the boundaries on engineering biomaterials to address medicine’s future needs?
Job Description
Back pain is among the top ten diseases causing the greatest burden on society in terms of years lived with disability. It is estimated that 30 to 40% of these cases are attributed to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Currently, there are no satisfactory treatments for IVD degeneration. If analgesics and physical therapy fail to control the pain, operative treatment can be considered in some cases, where the involved spinal segments are fused using metal/polymer cages. Such spinal fusion operations are very effective in relieving patients’ pain, but they are not always successful, sometimes leading to delayed fusions or non-unions. Our goal is to develop an innovative solution for spinal fusion using a 3D printed bioresorbable ceramic-based cage that is osteoinductive, load-bearing, and can counteract local inflammation. The newly created implant will be tested in vitro and in an in vivo animal model to move one step closer towards translation to human clinical applications. Your aim will be to design, fabricate, and characterize a subject-specific cage implant that promotes spinal fusion through mechanical stimulation while providing adequate mechanical strength until complete vertebrae fusion. To do this, you will focus on modeling the mechanobiology of the native tissue using integrated computational and experimental methods and translate those findings into innovative regenerative designs and material implants that promote fast and complete spinal fusion. You will contribute to a large Dutch-Brazilian research program – BioFusion – to research engineered biomaterials for spinal fusion (more details here). You will closely collaborate and spend some time at our partner organizations at KU Leuven (Belgium) and UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, School of Engineering (Brazil).
About the group
You will be enrolled at Eindhoven University of Technology within the Biomaterials Design and Processing and Orthopedics groups. Our mission is to develop novel treatment strategies for an aging and active population. We combine advanced biomaterials and manufacturing methods, such as Additive Manufacturing and Bioprinting, with in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo platforms, as well as engineering methods like high-resolution imaging and computational modeling. Our goal is to enhance understanding of musculoskeletal tissues and create regenerative treatments. We are part of the Regenerative Materials and Engineering cluster in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The department offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programs linked to research areas such as Chemical Biology, Biomaterials, and Biomechanics, with over 800 students and 200 academic staff. Our inclusive, collaborative campus fosters connections and excellence in research and education.
Job Requirements
We are accepting applications from enthusiastic and highly talented candidates who meet the
following requirements:
– A master’s degree (Second Cycle qualification) in Biomedical engineering, Mechanical engineering, Material Science and engineering, or related discipline.
– A solid background in continuum mechanics and biomechanics.
– A strong interest in computational mechanics, mechanobiology and multi-scale material modelling.
– Experience with bone engineering, inorganic biomaterials and Additive Manufacturing is preferred
– Excellent programming (e.g. Python, Matlab) and data analysis skills.
– Strong motivation to do excellent, original, fundamental research.
– Team player and able to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international context
– Excellent written and oral communication skills. Note that there is no Dutch language requirement.
– Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
Conditions of Employment
We offer a meaningful job in a dynamic, stimulating and ambitious team environment.
– A full-time employment contract for four years, with an intermediate performance review after nine months.
– A gross monthly salary and benefits that align with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities.
– Additionally, an annual holiday allowance equal to 8% of your yearly salary, and a year-end allowance of 8.3% of your annual salary.
– A broad package of fringe benefits, including access to an excellent technical infrastructure, assistance with moving expenses, and participation in savings schemes.
– Family-friendly initiatives, such as an international spouse program, on-campus children daycare, and sports facilities.
– Cutting-edge research focused on bone fractures and will receive innovative multidisciplinary and multisectoral training from experienced supervisors in both clinical and academic fields.
– Be part of an international team of biomaterials and spine research experts and a large network of PhD students.
– Secondments at KU Leuven (Belgium) and UNESP – Universidade Estadual Paulista, School of Engineering (Brazil)
– A structured training program, which includes a combination of soft skill courses, targeted workshops, social events, and networking opportunities.
Information and application
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? We invite you to submit a complete application directly to dr. Miguel Castilho (m.dias.castilho@tue.nl). The application should include a:
– Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
– Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three referees.
– Copies of degree and academic transcripts (with grades and rankings), for both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Academic records not written in English should be accompanied by a translation into English (it can be either an official translation or self-translation). If the candidate has not been awarded the qualifying degree yet, he/she should provide a document proving the expected date of award.
Dear ESB member,
As summer comes to an end, we still warmly remember the ESB 2024 meeting in Edinburgh.
Don’t forget to visit our website and stay updated with the latest news!
In the October 2024 newsletter from the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB), you will find:
Bernardo Innocenti, Chair of the Publication Committee
Dear ESB members,
I hope you had a great summer break and could recharge the batteries!
I am afraid I will have to start with some sad news… unfortunately a few weeks ago Prof John J. O’Connor has passed away. John has been a long-term member of the ESB and has contributed to our society, pioneering and leading on a number of transformative research in the field of orthopaedic biomechanics, that led to the design of new implants and improving the health of several patients. Our thanks to Richie, Tung-Wu and Alberto who have prepared the Obituary and the deepest condolences to John’s family, his former students and colleagues and all collaborators who knew him well across the globe and within our society. This is once more a reminder for us all that we stand on the shoulders of the giants who allowed this field to develop and brought us where we are! Now it is our chance to make the difference!
On a more positive note, the ESB congress 2024 in Edinburgh was a great success! It has been an opportunity to showcase what we do in the field and I was impressed about the quality of the science and the breadth of research areas our society is quickly expanding to. We would like to thank the local chairs Pankaj and Chloe Scott, Codan Consulting, the local organising committee and the scientific committee, the sponsors, the exhibitors, the track chairs, for giving us a fantastic scientific and social time… on top of the great presentations from the plenary speakers, awardees, perspective talks and standard abstracts presenters, I will also remember the Ceilidh dances at the congress dinner for a long time! We have also reached for the first time more than 1000 participants, making this congress the largest we have had so far! Well done to all! No pressure for the next organisers!!! 😉
The next ESB congress 2025 will be in Zurich, the local organisers are already working hard to make it a great 30th congress of our society. Don’t forget to prepare your abstract for Perspective Talks (deadline 30th November 2024) and standard Abstracts (deadline 31st January 2025). More information can be found below.
In Edinburgh we also had the elections of the new ESB Council that will serve for the next 2 years. I would like to thank the Council members who left the Council after two (past President David Mitton and past Vice President Jérôme Noailly) or one (Ilse Jonkers) mandates. Their efforts to manage the society have been instrumental in pushing the society out of the Covid/Lockdown period with a positive note and a lot of stored energy! I would also like to welcome the new members of the team to the Council: Philipp Thurner, Sandra Loerakker and Esther Reina Romo, who have already been actively engaging in leading the different ESB committees. You can see the details of the Council’s roles here. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for any questions you may have!
Finally, during the last GA we have started a real time survey to get some feedback on a number of questions that will help us plan the next activities of the society. See below a brief overview of the results and a link to a slightly longer and better formalised Survey. This approach will be a way of improving our two ways communication between the ESB Council and the Members. However, it will work only if you (both junior and senior members) complete the Survey! Please do it by following the link in the dedicated section below… Thank you for your contributions!
I wish you all a great and successful start of the new academic year!
Enrico Dall’Ara, ESB President
John J O’Connor (1934-2024)
John Joseph O’Connor was born in Dublin in 1934. He was educated by the Augustinian Friars at New Ross, County Wexford, where the teaching was conducted in Gaeilge. He went onto to read Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at University College, Dublin, graduating with a First Class Honours degree in 1956. After graduating he worked for British Nylon Spinners, who sponsored him to undertake a PhD on the mechanics of fretting at the University of Cambridge. His first academic post was at the University of Minnesota in 1962. In 1964 he became a University Lecturer in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. In 1991, he was appointed as the Research Director of the Oxford Orthopaedic Engineering Centre. John became Professor of Engineering Science in 1996 and was awarded with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by University College Dublin in 2018.
John’s interest in Biomechanics began when approached by an orthopaedic surgeon, John Goodfellow, who wanted to study the mechanics of the hip and knee joints. Together they developed an understanding of the natural joints and went on to design the Oxford Meniscal Knee, which was first implanted in 1976. The two Johns, as they became known, evolved the design and the instrumentation, and realized that it worked particularly well when implanted as a unicompartmental or partial knee replacement. It is now the most widely implanted partial knee replacement in the world, with over 50,000 implanted every year providing patients with relief from pain and a return to function. The Oxford knee celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2016, and will have its 50th anniversary in 2026, a remarkable feat for an orthopaedic implant.
John O’Connor’s Biomechanics legacy is vast and transformative. His interests included the mechanics of the knee and ankle joints, the pathomechanics of osteoarthritis, prosthesis design, gait analysis, mechanics of wear, and the application of finite element analysis in orthopaedic engineering. John intuitively understood the importance of collaboration and interdisciplinary working, showing that novel solutions that truly benefit patients require the combined insight of an engineer and a clinician. His innovative collaboration with John Goodfellow is an exemplar of this relationship. His collaboration with colleagues in Bologna (Leardini – Catani – Giannini) led to the development of the mobile-bearing BOX total ankle replacement, first implanted in 2003, further cementing his legacy in joint mechanics and replacement innovation.
As well as being a pioneer in Biomechanics, John O’Connor was a remarkable and generous teacher and mentor. John was a brilliant man who had tremendous humility and truly gentle manner. He always made time for his students and treated them with great respect, patience and kindness. Together with his beloved wife, Gemma, he built a large tightly knit community of students and scholars. He invited his students to effectively be part of his family, dinner at John and Gemma’s home was a regular feature for his students and collaborators. Those of us who were fortunate to be his graduate students all strive to emulate John’s style of mentorship and gentle guidance and provide the same opportunities for others that John provided for us.
In addition to the contribution to the fields of Biomechanics and Orthopaedic Surgery, John O’Connor was a devoted and loving husband and father. He was a beloved grandfather, who generously supported all of his grandchildren without any form of judgement. John had more than his share of ill health, suffering from heart disease and cancer. However, he never let that get in the way of the joy he took in life and his research work. John’s passing marks the loss of an extraordinary figure in biomechanics and a beloved mentor to many. His legacy lives on through the enduring impact of his research, the relief from suffering brought to thousands of patients, the scholars he mentored, and the transformative ideas he brought to the fields of orthopaedics and biomechanics. John, we miss you and continue to hold you dear in our hearts while we strive to walk in your footsteps.
Alberto Leardini, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli – Bologna
Tung-Wu Lu, National Taiwan University – Taipei
Richie Gill, University of Bath – Bath
During the last GA we have asked you a few questions and you can find here the most common answers. As with every survey from a diverse society, you will find something you agree with and something that is not what you expected. As in most surveys, you will also find completely opposite answers for some of the topics. This is fine and expected. Every one of us has different ideas on how events should be organised and managed. However, there are also some common themes and ideas, which we will take on board in the future activities of the society.
Question 1. New Newsletters: is there anything you would like to hear from us?
118 answers
Question 2. ESB congress: increase of number of participants, share your thoughts about what change you would like to see to improve it!
152 answers
Question 3. ESB 50th celebrations: tell us your ideas for events/activities you would like to see at WCB26!
112 answers
Of course, we are well aware that this is only a small sample of our society. So, in order to hear your voice please complete the Survey following the link below. The survey has been based on the most common answers received during the GA and we would like to know more about your thoughts about these questions. Our committees will analyse the answers and feedback in due course.
However, it will work only if you (both junior and senior members) complete the Survey following this link!
Thank you for your help!
Enrico Dall’Ara, ESB President
29th Congress of the ESB (ESBiomech2024) in Edinburgh
The 29th Congress of ESB (ESBiomech2024) in Edinburgh has been a great success, attracting a record number of 1108 delegates from 50 countries. The Council would like to thank the Congress Chairs Prof. Pankaj Pankaj and Dr. Chloe E. H. Scott, and the entire Local Organising Committee for the great work. The archive of abstract can be found here.
30th Congress of the ESB (ESBiomech2025) in Zürich
We are looking very much forward to the next ESB congress in Zürich. Before sharing the message of the Local Organizing Committee, we’d like to highlight that the deadline for Perspective Talk submission is already coming up soon (November 30, 2024) and remind you about the related rules. Abstracts for Perspective Talks should be different from regular abstract submissions in the sense that they provide a broader overview of a certain research topic, and provide an overview of future directions and/or challenges. Specifically, we use the following definition for Perspective Talks:
“A Perspective Talk (PT) is a ‘mini-keynote’, i.e., an extended presentation that introduces a session. A PT is given by an established researcher or tandem of experts from different fields/backgrounds with focus on a cutting edge, coherent body of research. It should give a brief overview of results and unanswered questions, which may be based mainly, but not exclusively on their own and their group’s contribution to this field, and must include future vision and challenges to be targeted. PTs are intended to encourage intergenerational and multidisciplinary networking and to give scientists the opportunity to learn from those with more experience.”
More information, including the abstract template, can be found here .
A message of the Local Organizing Committee of Zürich 2025:
The 30th ESB Congress will take place between 6 – 9 July in Zürich, Switzerland!
We are delighted to invite you for the 30th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics taking place at ETH Zürich, Switzerland. This year’s theme, AI in Biomechanics: Opportunities and Challenges, reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence in advancing the field.
Key dates:
Stay up-to-date with the latest congress tracks, topics, and announcements by visiting the official congress website: www.esbiomech2025.org.
The following keynote speakers have been confirmed:
We look forward to seeing you in Zürich next year!
The ESBiomech2025 Organizers
You are cordially invited to the AO Orthopaedic Research Summit that will take place between 16-19 June 2025 in Davos, Switzerland. With the theme “Three Societies Combining Minds to Advance Science and Clinical Impact”, the Summit provides access to three conferences with a single registration:
Please consider submitting a Symposium for EORS 2025, the Call is open until November 15th.
Peter Varga, Chair of the Meetings and External Affairs Committee
The ESB invites proposals for the organization of its annual congress in 2028. If you would like to host and organize the 2028 ESB congress and wish to prepare and submit a bid, please read the conference rules.
Interested members can contact or send a proposal/bid to Dr Peter Varga, Chair of the Meetings and External Affairs Committee (meeting.chair@esbiomech.org).
The deadline for bid submission (first step) to organize the ESB 2028 is 15 December 2024.
Peter Varga, Chair of the Meetings and External Affairs Committee
Sandra Loerakker, Chair of the WebPortal and Working Groups Committee
Inclusion in biomechanics-enabled technologies – research survey (led by Michael Crichton, Heriot Watt; Ankush Agrawal, Glasgow and Marlène Mengoni, Leeds – UK).
The progression of personal and remote medical technologies that are based upon biomechanics knowledge and research hold the potential to understand what is happening in our bodies in ways that previously required attendance in clinics. However, devices like continuous glucose monitors, health apps and smart watches have been limited since our population is not “one-size-fits-all” (for example, smart watches failing to measure heartrate on pigmented skin (Shcherbina et al., 2017)). To address this issue, we have conducted two workshops to start a conversation between those working in biomechanics in order to develop best practice for inclusive technology development. These workshops brought together clinicians, engineers, scientists, and social scientists to identify areas where biomechanics and related engineering approaches can be employed to make future technologies more inclusive.
We are seeking to build a conversation on this topic and look to the ESB community to engage on this topic. The recent presentation we gave at BioMedEng24 on this is accessible via the following link (https://tissuedevices.hw.ac.uk/inclusion-in-biomechanics/) and we invite you to contribute your thoughts and perspectives on this topic here: https://forms.office.com/e/XBuC7dD6ip. We will then look to build this conversation with your input.
Marlène Mengoni, Sponsorship Committee and Deputy Treasurer
Esther Reina Romo: Chair of the Diversity-inclusion and Membership Committee
Updates from the Italian National Chapter – ESB-ITA
The Italian Chapter participated in large numbers at the ESB 2024 congress in Edinburgh, with approximately 90 attendees and several affiliates awarded.
The XIII Annual Meeting of the ESB-ITA was held in Pescara (Italy) on October 3-4, 2024. The Meeting comprised both a thematic symposium focused on dental biomechanics (“Challenges in dental biomechanics: innovative and advanced approaches”) and the general meeting. Keynote speakers: Prof. Anna Pandolfi (Politecnico di Milano, Italy), Prof. Christian Gasser (KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden), and Prof. Benedikt Helgason (ETH Zurich, Switzerland).
The ESB-ITA Networking Working Group is working to create an active network with national and international universities and companies. Additionally, it is promoting dialogue with other organizations (including the other national chapters of the ESB).
The ESB-ITA Communication Working Group is revising the society’s overall communications plan, changing the website layout, and adding a page with updated news while strengthening and standardizing social media activities via LinkedIn and X.
Marlène Mengoni, Sponsorship Committee and Deputy Treasurer
Virtual Physiological Human institute (VPHi)
The biannual VPH2024 conference has just taken place in Stuttgart from 3 to 6 September 2024. With over 400 participants gathered to share cutting-edge research, foster new collaborations, and push the frontiers of in silico medicine, the event has truly confirmed its status as the premier conference in this field. Save the date for VPH2026 in Milan on 1-4 September 2026.
The Virtual Physiological Human Institutes is producing a series of divulgation videos to spread the knowledge of in silico medicine towards a larger public. The series, called Code & Cure Understanding In Silico Medicine, will include a total of 10 videos, 5 of which have already been released. The Institute has also started to release a podcast dedicated to in silico medicine called The Digital Twin Theory that aims to inform and involve a lay audience of science enthusiasts and patients interested on the topic.
Société de Biomécanique
The next annual conference of the Société de Biomécanique will be held in Compiègne (France). Focused on “well ageing”, from October 29 to 31, the enticing conference program is available on the conference website. The annual PhD award, the young researcher award, the sports biomechanics award (Jean Vives) and the senior researcher award (C. Oddou) will present their extensive work during the conference. The organizers are also pleased to announce the three plenary speakers: Danièle Noël from the Institut de Médecine Régénératrice et Biothérapies (IRMB – Montpellier – France), John McPhee from the University of Waterloo (Canada) and Julien Husson from the Ecole Polytechnique (Palaiseau, France). Join us in Compiègne !
Portuguese Society of Biomechanics
The next Portuguese Congress of Biomechanics will take place in Sesimbra, on 21-22 February 2025. The details can be found here.
During this congress, the Portuguese Society of Biomechanics awards three persons with: Best Phd on Biomechanics, Best Master on Biomechanics, and Prof. João Martins award for young researchers (less than 35 years) with significant work on Biomechanics.
Australian and New Zealand Society of Biomechanics (ANZORS)
Save the date: The International Society of Biomechanics Conference (ISB 2027) will be hosted in Sydney on 18-22 July 2027, co-organized by The University of Newcastle, The University of Sydney, and the Macquarie University.
Peter Varga, Chair of the Meetings and External Affairs Committee
InSilicoHealth is an innovative Doctoral Network (DN) with the ambition to train a new generation of outstanding Doctoral Candidates (DC) that will become effective translators of the rapidly evolving digital technology to tackle existing and future challenges related with healthy ageing in Europe. The research focus of this DN lies in three key domains: the brain, heart, and musculoskeletal (MSK) systems. In the realm of digital technology, InSilicoHealth specifically focuses on virtual human twin (VHT) technology to enhance our understanding of the age-related adaptive changes of the complex human body through predictive multi-scale simulations. The research methodology employs knowledge-driven models enhanced by advanced data-driven inference techniques to optimize the health potential of older individuals.
Host institution: Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Spain
Supervisory team: Prof. Jerome Noailly (PhD supervisor, UPF), Prof. Ilse Jonkers (PhD co-supervisor, KU Leuven), Prof. Miguel Ángel González Ballester (PhD co-supervisor, UPF), Dr Ludovic Humbert (secondment host, 3D-Shaper).
Enrolment in Doctoral School: Enrolled in the Information and Communication Technologies (UPF) and at the Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences (KU Leuven).
This PhD project will focus on coupling biological regulatory network and organ finite element models to define risk factors of different rates or organ ageing in personalised models related with patient (osteoarthritis, low back pain) and population cohorts, with which UPF works. The objectives are: 1) Couple pre-existing models at UPF: chondrocyte and intervertebral disc mechano-sensitive cell regulatory networks models with finite element models of the knee joint and the intervertebral disc; 2) Personalise the shapes of the organ models by combining magnetic resonance image segmentation and mesh morphing; 3) Personalise the regulatory network initial states, based on patient BMI, age and other factors known to control low grade inflammation mediators mapped in the networks; 4) Run simulations and mine together input data for model personalization and simulated data related with network node activations that reflect nociceptive pain, pro-inflammatory cytokine activity, balance between matrix proteases and inhibitors thereof, structural proteins; 5) Define a pipeline for model assessment, based on uncertainty and consistency analyses, falsification tests against clinical cases, capacity for discrimination in clinical case-control: 6) Assess risk factors and build corresponding surrogate models.
A successful project will result in a robust pipeline for multiscale modelling that allows mechanistic explorations of pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factor predictions for age-related joint degeneration, based on interpretable biological mechanisms.
Are you interested in undertaking a PhD in the interdisciplinary field of computational cardiovascular biomechanics? If so, there are positions available in my research group and details are provided below.
Further information: If you are interested or want more information, please contact me at my email (ankush.aggarwal@glasgow.ac.uk) before starting the formal application. Please visit Computational Biomechanics Research Group page or my staff page for more information on our research.
Project Summary: Almost 30% of all deaths globally are related to cardiovascular diseases. The overall aim of computational cardiovascular biomechanics is to help improve the diagnosis of these diseases (faster, earlier, more precise), provide better surgical outcomes, and design devices that last longer. To achieve that aim, we study the biomechanical properties of tissues and cells comprising the cardiovascular system using a combination of in-vivo imaging, ex-vivo and in-vitro testing, and in-silico modeling. Several project topics are available, including, but not limited to:
1) Predicting aneurysm development from ultrasound images using growth and remodeling simulations
2) Drug-based treatment of aneurysms: a computational study
3) Uncertainty quantification in image-based cardiovascular biomechanics
4) Image-based cardiovascular diagnosis using machine-learning
5) Development of a digital twin of the thoracic aorta
During this project, the student will have opportunities to:
Eligibility: Candidates must have an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, such as Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mathematics and Computing Science, with excellent grades. A background in mechanics and knowledge of numerical methods (such as finite element analysis) would be necessary. Programming skills will be required for computational modeling.
Application: The deadline for applications is 31 January 2025, and the application process consists of two parts:
1) On-line academic application: Go to https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/infrastructureenvironment/ and click on the ‘Apply now’ tab. Applicants should attach relevant documents such as CV, transcripts, references and a research proposal.
2) Scholarship: Depending on the eligibility, you can apply for competitive scholarships, such as UofG School of Engineering Scholarship, CSC Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, etc. These are listed on https://www.gla.ac.uk/colleges/scienceengineering/graduateschool/scholarships/#pgrscholarships Please feel free to get in touch to discuss further.
The ESB invites proposals for the organization of its annual congress in 2028. If you would like to host and organize the 2028 ESB congress and wish to prepare and submit a bid, please read the conference rules.
Interested members can contact or send a proposal/bid to Dr Peter Varga, Chair of the Meetings and External Affairs Committee (meeting.chair@esbiomech.org).
The deadline for bid submission (first step) to organize the ESB 2028 is 15 December 2024.
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time, fully-funded position that will investigate the mechanobiology of tumour growth and therapy resistance. This position is funded by a European Research Council Starting Grant and will be under the supervision of Dr Eoin McEvoy, Associate Professor in Biomedical Engineering. The researcher will join Dr McEvoy’s group, which brings together expertise in biophysical modelling, active cell biomechanics, and in-vitro tumour models. The group’s overall focus is to develop advanced computational and experimental models that provide a mechanistic understanding of cell and tissue remodelling in cancer and disease, motivating novel mechano-therapeutics and treatment strategies. For further information, see www.mechanomodel.ie.
University of Galway: The University of Galway has world-recognized expertise in biomedical science and engineering, with a particularly strong track-record of developing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic solutions to healthcare challenges. Located in the vibrant cultural city of Galway in the west of Ireland, with over 18,000 students and more than 2,400 staff, the university has a distinguished reputation for teaching and research excellence (https://www.universityofgalway.ie/our-research/). Dr McEvoy is also an investigator at CÚRAM, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Medical Devices, which is embedded in Galway’s vibrant Med-Tech ecosystem.
Project Description: Personalised medicine presents an exciting frontier in healthcare that tailors disease mitigation and intervention to an individual patient. This project will develop integrated computational and experimental models for the prediction of patient-specific cancer cell behaviour, to uncover new mechanistic insight and advance multi-scale models. Specifically, the candidate will develop (i) novel microfluidic systems to characterise active cell biomechanics and (ii) coupled predictive models using advanced finite element analysis and agent based modelling. This frontier research will bridge subcellular remodelling and single cell mechanobiology to provide a new fundamental understanding of tumour growth and therapy resistance in breast cancer.
Stipend: Fully-funded four-year scholarship – €22,000 per annum (tax-exempt award). University fees are fully covered by the scholarship. You will also receive a high-end laptop or desktop computer for your research. Travel expenses are included to attend frontier international conferences.
Academic entry requirements: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical or Mechanical Engineering, Applied Maths or a related field. Prospective candidates should be enthusiastic, motivated, and willing to learn new skills.
Start Date: October 2024 – January 2025; the position will remain open until filled.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should send their CV (including the names of two referees) and a one-page cover letter outlining their motivation to work on the project to Dr Eoin McEvoy at eoin.mcevoy@universityofgalway.ie. Please use the email subject line “PhD Application” to ensure that applications are processed. You are also welcome to reach out for an informal discussion on the available projects and positions.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed periodically until September 20th, 2024.
For more information on moving to Ireland, please see www.euraxess.ie
Applications are invited for a Ph.D. project position within the MAtrix / Mechanobiology & Tissue Engineering research group (www.mech.kuleuven.be/mechanobiology), a bioengineering group that is pioneering the role of cellular forces for microvascular formation and function in health and disease. The group is led by Hans Van Oosterwyck and is one of the few groups worldwide that has established 3D Traction Force Microscopy (TFM) routines and workflows for quantifying cellular force exertion in 3D, and routinely applies them to in vitro models of angiogenesis (endothelial invasion). Together with its research partners, it is currently developing novel in vitro models, compatible with TFM, to study the interplay between cellular force exertion, matrix mechanics and fluid flow, and how this interplay contributes to microvascular lesion formation within the context of specific (genetic) diseases.
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) is a microvascular disease characterized by abnormal brain microcapillary beds resulting from mutations in CCM-complex genes, with no current cure. While we have recently demonstrated the significance of aberrant cellular forces for CCM lesion formation in 3D endothelial monoculture systems (see doi: 10.1101/2023.11.27.568780), more complex co-culture systems are needed to better mimic the environment of in vivo lesions. This project centers on deciphering the intricate interactions between endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes within an advanced vessel-on-a-chip model. By integrating a 3D microfluidic platform with force quantification methods, the study aims to comprehensively elucidate the roles of EC and pericyte forces in CCM progression, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between biochemical and biomechanical factors. Beyond advancing vessel-on-a-chip technology, the project holds promise for broader applications in microvascular disease.
We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and communicative researcher with a master’s degree in biomedical engineering, biotechnology or a related field. The candidate should have obtained excellent study results. In addition, we require:
We are offering an exciting Ph.D. position in a multidisciplinary, international and collaborative research environment. The MAtrix / Mechanobiology & Tissue Engineering group is working on cutting-edge methods for cellular force inference and is addressing important questions in vascular (mechano)biology in close collaboration with its biomedical partners. The group is based at the Leuven Chem&Tech / Leuven Nanocentre (https://set.kuleuven.be/chemtech_nanocentre) that forms the perfect environment for technology development and that houses unique equipment related to e.g. optical microscopy and nanoscopy, micro-, nano- and biofabrication and biosensing. KU Leuven is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with a very rich tradition in research and higher education. Today, it is among the best 100 universities in the world according to both Times Higher Education World Rankings and QS World University Rankings, and was ranked by Reuters as most innovative university of Europe since 2016. Leuven is a vibrant student town at the heart of Belgium and Europe, offering a great quality of life.
The group works in close collaboration with dr. Eva Faurobert at the Institute for Advanced Biosciences (University of Grenoble, France) and profs. Liz Jones, Aernout Luttun, Rozenn Quark and An Zwijsen (Centre for Molecular and Vascular Biology at KU Leuven), with whom you are expected to closely collaborate as well.
research group website
general information on working conditions
gross salary (salary scale 43)
For more information please contact prof. Hans Van Oosterwyck, mail: hans.vanoosterwyck@kuleuven.be, Dr. Jorge Barrasa Fano, mail: jorge.barrasafano@kuleuven.be, Dr. Jyotsana Priyadarshani, mail: jyotsana.priyadarshani@kuleuven.be.
You can apply for this job no later than August 21, 2024 via the online application tool
More information: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60354466?lang=en
The Centre for Machine Intelligence (CMI) at The University of Sheffield wish to recruit a Senior Lecturer (Grade 9, equivalent to Associate Professor) in AI for Health.
The CMI is a strategic initiative supported by a £3.64m investment, dedicated to the transformation and acceleration of research, innovation, and teaching on and with AI. This position is one of four academic theme lead appointments. You will work across the CMI and related institutes (the Insigneo Institute and the Healthy Lifespan Institute) for the first three years of the post, after which you will join a School in the Faculty of Health or Faculty of Engineering appropriate to your disciplinary background and expertise.
AI for Health is a key research theme at the University of Sheffield. The recent award of a £4m EPSRC Digital Health Hub offers many opportunities at the interface of AI and health technology, and the University has invested £1.6m in Data Connect, a service to broker access to health data for research. We have strong links with one of the largest NHS trusts in the UK – Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust – and with the Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust. World-class research is undertaken on a broad range of areas including in-silico modelling, digital twins, cancer, cardiovascular disease, medical imaging, health economics/decision science, neuroscience, infection/immunity, and public health.
You will have a background in computational research with digital healthcare data, with a track record in machine learning/AI methodology and its application. You will have direct experience of interdisciplinary collaboration using data from across healthcare sectors. You will have the skills to provide leadership in AI and health, and to work with other theme leads and the Centre Director to ensure that the CMI is at the forefront of AI research, innovation, and impact, nationally and internationally.
More information and application:
https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DIG334/senior-lecturer-and-theme-lead-in-ai-for-health
