PhD Position: Predicting Efficacy of neuromodulation in epilepsy

• Hours40 hr.

• Salary indication€ 2,541 - € 3,247

• Deadline13 Feb 2023

Within the Clinical Neurophysiology group from the University of Twente, in collaboration with the Medisch Spectrum Twente and SEIN Zwolle,  we have available a PhD position for a project entitled: Predicting Efficacy of Neuromodulation in Epilepsy (PREDYct).

Vagus nerve stimulation is a treatment option in pharmacoresistant epilepsy patients. However, about 30-50% of patients do not respond to this treatment. Our group focuses on understanding brain systems of epilepsy patients and the impact of neuromodulation therapy.  Primary research objectives are to improve the selection of patients who may benefit from neuromodulation.  

This project aims to identify novel biomarkers to predict the success of vagus nerve stimulation by combining a novel innovative method of recording ultra-long (up to more than a year) EEG, state-of the-art functional neuroimaging (fMRI, DTI) and high density EEG.

This project is a collaboration between the Neurocenter Medisch Spectrum Twente (neurology, neurosurgery and clinical neurophysiology), the epilepsy center SEIN in Zwolle and the  CNPH group of the University of Twente. This project is funded by the Dutch epilepsy foundation, EpilepsyNL.

For more information, please contact: Prof.dr.ir M.J.A.M. van Putten, neurologist ([email protected]).

Please submit your application before Feb 13, including:

• A cover letter outlining your specific interest, qualifications, and motivation to apply for this position.
• A detailed CV including your list of publications, patents, and conferences.
• Transcripts from your Bachelor and Master degrees.

Research in the Clinical Neurophysiology group CNPH is at the interface of neuroscience, neurophysiology and clinical neurology, focusing on cerebral ischemia and epilepsy. In addition to improve understanding of pathophysiology, we aim to develop novel diagnostic tools and treatments. Our research is truly translational:  from the UT to the clinic and back.

The EEG is a key clinical and research tool. EEG signal analysis includes various machine learning techniques to improve diagnostic values and (bedside) application. Applied EEG studies are complemented by biophysical modeling and simulation for improved understanding of underlying neuronal dynamics and prediction of treatment effects. In addition, we use in vitro models consisting of cultured neurons (from rodent or human induced pluripotent stem cells) on multi-electrode arrays to study basic neuronal and synaptic functioning, identify treatment targets, and screen treatments.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.