PhD position on Dynamic On-Body and In-Body Compression Systems – University of Twente – Enschede

Medical devices designed for rehabilitation, prevention, or therapy span a wide spectrum, while mostly offer a simple way to aid individuals. A key role among these devices, is the application of compression. Whether it’s for increasing joint’s stability, limiting range of movement, or aiding in weakened functionality of an internal organ; the controlled pressure that these devices provide is the core to their therapeutic effectiveness. The mentioned devices show variations in the implementation site and therefore in working conditions; but an underlying technical problem may remain similar. For example, the technical problem can be explained by inefficiency in transferring or directing an actuator’s force to the target area. Another issue is that most devices apply a constant compression and are not able to adjust to the changing mechanical environment required by the patient.

Objective

The PhD’s objective is to develop technologies for dynamic and adaptable actuation in compression devices. Initially, we will consider ‘on-body’ applications, which can be realized with a controlled (yet adaptable) compression level and change the loading condition to patients in occupational domain or patients with chronic pain. Common joints that are biomechanically supported by the devices include the ankle, knee, hip, spine, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Therefore, the system must be designed in such a way that it is modular, scalable, compact and can be easily applied to different parts of the body. Furthermore, the actuation principle may reach ‘in-body’ devices tailored to restore functionality of internal organs like assisting drainage of the urinary bladder by the device that is surrounding the bladder. This technology development opens a new vision in the actuation design moving beyond traditional methods reaching an efficient modular actuation.

Your profile

You have, or will shortly acquire, a master’s degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent.

You have profound knowledge and skills in Actuators & Sensors, System engineering, and Prototyping techniques.

You have affinity with medical applications and device design and are willing to dive deeper into these topics.

You have good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.

You are fluent in English, both spoken and written, and have strong analytical, organizational and managerial skills.

Our offer

We offer a very stimulating position in a dynamic and international environment with enthusiastic colleagues, excellent working conditions and a green and lively campus.

A fully funded full-time 4-year PhD position;

Excellent mentorship and a stimulating international research environment;

A training program as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision;

A starting salary of € 2.770 gross per month in the first year and a salary of € 3.539 gross per month in the fourth year;

A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;

The flexibility to work (partially) from home;

A solid pension scheme;

Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of fulltime employment;

We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.

Non-male applicants are explicitly asked to apply for this position. This is part of the University of Twente’s strategy to increase the proportion of women among its faculty and to create a working environment that is diverse and inclusive and supportive of excellence in research and teaching.

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