PhD position: Control of Wearable Robots to Interface with and Influence Human Motor Control of Walking
Do you think wearable robots are the best thing since sliced bread? Are you inspired by the potential of wearable robots to improve human movement and quality of life? Would you like an opportunity to join the growing community of roboticists, biomechanists, and clinicians investigating how exoskeletons can address walking difficulties?
The Chair of Neuromuscular Robotics is looking for a passionate and dedicated PhD candidate to study how exoskeletons can subtly influence the motor control of human walking.
The goal of this project is to advance gait entrainment technology and understanding towards an effective gait therapy for people with movement disorders.
The main distinction between conventional robotic gait therapy and gait entrainment with wearable robots is the mechanism of human-machine interaction. In conventional robotic gait therapy, exoskeletons/exosuits (exos) physically assist movement of the limbs and aim to make walking easier by reducing the requisite human effort. In gait entrainment, the exo delivers small torque pulses to the leg thus encouraging subconscious adaptation in walking pattern. Exos for gait entrainment require less torque generation and power than their conventional counterparts, which unlocks new design possibilities. The requirements for the robot control system also differ between the two exoskeleton classes.
The key undertaking of the PhD student is to develop robust controllers for the exoskeleton torque pulses. Dependent on project progress and the successful candidates interest, other aspects of the project may include mechanical design, developing predictive or personalized control systems, investigating gait biomechanics, and working with clinical populations. The successful candidate will publish their work in academic journals and have opportunities to present their work at national and international conferences, building academic and/or industrial networks to support their future career. Additionally, the PhD candidate will contribute to the education of Bachelor’s and Masters’s students at the University of Twente.
Information and application
Please submit your application before 31st January 2025 by using the “Apply now” button. Interviews will be held in mid-late February. Intended start time between March - June 2025.
Applications must include the following materials (all in English):
* A cover letter (maximum 1 page A4) detailing your interests, motivation for this position, and why you are a good fit for the project.
* A 2 minute video in which you present your authentic self, your motivation, and relevant research experience & skills.
* A full Curriculum Vitae including your English proficiency level, nationality & visa requirements, experience overview, concise summary of previous research, publications (if any), and relevant skills/expertise.
* An academic transcript of Bachelor and Masters education, including grades.
* Contact information for at least two academic references. A support letter will be requested only if your application is considered.
Additional information about this position can be acquired from Dr. Mhairi K. MacLean (MKMacLean@utwente.nl).
Dr. MacLean joins the department of Biomechanical Engineering as an assistant professor in 2022. She has recorded a video on her mentorship style for this position.
Please, only apply via the web platform and do not apply via email.
About the organisation
The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.
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