PhD Position Design Optimisation of Orthopaedic Implants

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. It is renowned for its excellent education, its cutting-edge fundamental research and its efforts to put new knowledge and innovations directly into practice. Three collaborative PhD positions are available at the Institute for Biomechanics (Department of Health Sciences and Technology). new position.The available position is funded under the EU MSCA Innovative Training Network program “NuSpine”. The overall aims of the research program are to develop and characterise new biomaterials (i.e. silicon nitride) for use in spinal implants in order to improve mechanical load-bearing capacity, decrease the rate of implant wear and increase the stability of osseointegration. Through material and design optimisation, we aim to extend the functional longevity of spinal implants in an increasingly active patient population.

The focus of this research sub-project is the optimal design of implants, with the following objectives: (1) Implementation of semi-automated topology optimisation in a public-domain, voxel-based finite element solver (ParFE), including the specific pre- and post-yield properties of silicon nitride materials. (2) Application of topology optimisation to develop novel forms of intervertebral fusion implants, targeting maximum implant porosity, homogeneous loading of the host bone and accelerated cell proliferation rate.

You are required to have a master’s degree in biomedical engineering, computer science or a related relevant field. You are expected to have demonstrated experience with computer aided design, finite element analysis, computer programming and a strong background knowledge of continuum mechanics. Experience with large-scale simulation and/or distributed computing on GPUs would be advantageous.

Eligibility is set by the regulations of the MSCA ITN framework. Researchers can be of any nationality. They are required to undertake physical, transnational mobility (i.e. move from one country to another) when taking up their appointment. Therefore, researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date.