PhD Position: Computer Simulation of Spinal Segment Mechanics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

One doctoral and one post-doctoral position are available at the Institute for Biomechanics (Department of Health Sciences and Technology).  The Institute for Biomechanics is a multidisciplinary research unit dedicated to the biomechanical investigation of the human body. We investigate the mechanics and material properties of the musculoskeletal system, as well as movement control, from a macroscopic (body/organ) scale to a microscopic (cell) scale.

The position is available from October 1, 2023, but earlier or later starting dates could be considered.

Project background

The available position is funded under the EU H2020 program "METASTRA". METASTRA aims to improve the prevention of fractures in patients with vertebral metastases, and to deliver patient-targeted treatment by developing robust computational models that will reliably stratify patients based on their fracture risk. METASTRA will provide a combination of validated biomechanical models and data driven AI models that will be incorporated in a Decision Support System (DSS). You will gain the necessary interdisciplinary skills demanded by industry and academia to deliver timely and cost-effective solutions to one of the most challenging problems in spinal healthcare.

Job description

You will be responsible for conducting your own independent research. The focus of this research sub-project is to develop advanced, patient-specific models of the spinal intervertebral disc, for integration into a large-scale "virtual physiological human" model of spinal loading.

Specific duties:

• Develop and apply a finite element model of the human intervertebral disc. Hyperelastic, viscoelastic and/or fibre-reinforced poroelastic simulation models will be used to explore load transfer through the disc to adjoining vertebrae. Time-dependent mechanical properties will be integrated in the models, derived from measurements performed at consortium partner institutions, correlated to MR images. You will work closely with collaborators to develop and apply novel methods in MR and CT image segmentation, semi-automated model definition and integration of the intervertebral disc model into larger-scale spinal segment and whole-body musculoskeletal models
• Validate model predictions against experimental data
• Use the models to explore the risk of vertebral fractures in individuals with vertebral metastases
• Define and supervise BSc and MSc projects of biomedical engineering students, within the research infrastructure of the ETH Zurich
• Disseminate research results in peer-reviewed journal articles and at international conferences

Your profile

Essential experience, skills and characteristics:

• A master's degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering or related relevant field
• A demonstrated and substantial experience with computational simulation methods, i.e. finite element analysis and musculoskeletal models
• English proficiency
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work independently, with flexibility, humour and critical thinking

Desirable criteria:

• Experience with medical image analysis
• Experience with soft material / tissue mechanics
• Experience with in vitro biomechanical testing
• German language skills
• Peer-reviewed scientific publication(s)

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits. The Laboratory for Orthopaedic Technology is a multi-disciplinary research group employing computational, experimental and biological methods. Through the METASTRA project, you will collaborate closely with international partners.

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, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Covering letter with statement of motivation
• Your CV
• A copy of or link to your MSc thesis
• Names and contact details of two references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Institute for Biomechanics can be found on our website . For further information, please contact Prof. Stephen Ferguson, or email [email protected] (no application documents).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.