PhD position: Control of Wearable Robots to Interface with and Influence Human Motor Control of 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.

You have, or are about to get, a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems and Control, Biomedical Engineering (specialized in robotics) or a related field.

You have a solid background in control systems

You have experience with real-time control of robotic systems.

You have experience with biomechanics, human gait, neuromechanics, and/or working with a clinical population.

You have good programming skills in, for example, Python.

You have excellent proficiency in written and spoken English.

You are an analytical and critical thinker, with an eye for detail.

You are inquisitive, adaptable, and independent.

You are passionate about exploring new concepts and doing original research.

You enjoy being part of and contributing to a multidisciplinary team.

The UT provides a dynamic and international environment, combining the benefits of academic research, excellent working conditions, enthusiastic colleagues, an exciting scientific environment, and a green and lively campus. We offer:

A full-time four-year PhD position.

A starting salary of € 2.901- in the first year and growing to € 3.707,- in the fourth-year gross per month.

30% tax ruling option.

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

A minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment.

A proven pension scheme.

Professional and personal development programs.

Extraordinary research facilities and working environment:

Access to the several laboratories and specialist equipment within the Biomechanical Engineering Department.

Work location within a knowledge park with direct access to a large number of tech-companies and start-ups.

Fun work atmosphere with social events.

Proximity to Enschede, a mid-size city with a busy social scene, embedded in the beautiful nature of the Twente region.

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 ([email protected]). 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.

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.

Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Rai for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

Phone:+31534897699

Email:[email protected]

Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

1st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

2nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening.

Personal page

Personal page

At the UT it's all about people, in line with our university's High Tech Human Touch philosophy. In everything we do, the well-being and future of our students and staff are paramount. From research and teaching to personnel management, campus management and the use of new technologies.

Our university is a public institution that serves society. We are accountable to society for the ways in which we use our academic freedom. We are responsible for ensuring that the power of science and technology is harnessed to achieve the best possible impact in a changing world. We cherish our rich tradition of combining technical and social sciences in our five profiling themes: Improving healthcare by personalized technologies; Creating intelligent manufacturing systems; Shaping our world with smart materials; Engineering our digital society; and Engineering for a resilient world.

We help society meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. But we are also transparent about what science and technology can and cannot do in finding sustainable solutions. And help translate these solutions into everyday life.

We want our communities to flourish and show resilience, so we seize opportunities for innovation. We are knowledgeable and have an eye for what society needs. Our students and staff receive all the guidance they need in their quest for ecological, social and economic sustainability. “The University of Twente is all about people. Our sustainable technologies help to strengthen society.”

Browse all jobs