ESBiomech25 Congress in Zurich

PhD Student Position in Biomedical Development @ AO Research Davos

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization led by an international group of surgeons specialized in the treatment of trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Founded in 1958 by 13 visionary surgeons, the AO fosters one of the most extensive networks of over 215,000 surgeons, operating room personnel, and scientists in over 100 countries.

The mission of the AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) is excellence in applied Preclinical Research and Development within trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and translation of this knowledge to achieve more effective patient care worldwide. The ARI contributes high quality applied Preclinical Research and Development (exploratory and translational) focused towards clinical applications/solutions as well as investigates and improves the performance of surgical procedures, devices and substances. It fosters a close relationship with the AO medical community, academic societies, and universities and provides a research environment and support for AO clinicians.

PhD Student Biomechanics and Modeling Focus Area

Peri-implantitis remains an unsolved issue, affecting close to half of all dental implants, with heavy smokers, patients with systemic health conditions (e.g. uncontrolled diabetes) and the immunosuppressed to be more vulnerable to the disease. The currently used dental implants are of low functionality and prone to bacterial colonization and to the formation of bacterial biofilm. The international and interdisciplinary consortium of the Horizon 2020 funded I-SMarD project aims to address this issue by developing advanced multifunctional dental implants that prevent bacterial colonization, promote tissue in-growth and integration via custom 3D printed structure, and allow non-invasive monitoring of the healing process using special coatings. The novel implants are expected to reduce the required time and cost of rehabilitation period for patients benefit while improving diagnosis.

Within this context, we are looking for an outstanding PhD student to join our team. The PhD candidate’s activities will be focused on the structural design and mechanical behavior of the implant using a combined biomechanical testing and computer simulation approach. The successful candidate will be hired at ARI and enrolled at in the PhD program of a partner university in Europe.

Your profile

  • MSc degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical or civil engineering, technical physics, material sciences or related disciplines
  • Previous experience with mechanical testing and finite element simulations would be an advantage
  • Excellent communication (English) skills for an effective collaboration with all involved parties.
  • High motivation, strong interest in research, durability to cope with challenges
  • Ability to solve complex tasks in a highly independent manner
  • Eligibility to apply and obtain a Visa for temporary residence is Switzerland
  • Familiarity with a cross-cultural/interdisciplinary environment is an advantage

We offer

  • An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative organization
  • Working in a highly committed international team
  • Modern infrastructure
  • Employment conditions which match the requirements and offer a high degree of flexibility re working hours and location

If you meet the requirements of this challenging opportunity, please submit your complete online application (motivation letter, CV, recent photograph, certificates, reference letters, etc.) through our online application system. Applications received via other channels will not be considered in the process.

For more information please contact Dr. Peter Varga peter.varga@aofoundation.org

The online application link can be found here.


Corporate members of the ESB:

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