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PhD research scholarship
Gold Coast Orthopaedic Research and Education Alliance (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia.
Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia.
Faculty of Science and Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Queensland, Australia.
The research project
This multi-institution collaborative research project involves the development of modelling simulations for bone mechanics under physiologically relevant conditions. Specifically, the project aims to understand the mechanical conditions surrounding those individuals at risk of fracture that do not respond to exercise interventions that otherwise promote adaptive bone re-modelling. The paradigm we envision to be used in this project is the development subject-specific finite element method simulations, informed by consistent subject-specific rigid multi-body neuromusculoskeletal models, to probe key questions regarding the influence of muscle geometry, muscle activation/coordination, and joint kinematics on femoral neck stresses and strains during dynamic therapeutic exercises, such as squats and dead-lifts.
PhD candidate profile
A successful candidate is expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with first-class honours or second-class honours (Division A) or a master’s degree highly awarded. These degrees should incorporate a significant research component (i.e., >30% of the credits awarded should be attributed to the research component) in either mechanical engineering, biomechanics, or related degrees. Essential skills include strong knowledge of rigid multi-body and continuum dynamics, and excellent skills in Python and/or MATLAB (and C++ if possible) programming languages. Evidence of competent work with finite element modelling software (e.g., FEBio, Comsol, ABAQUS, etc.) is strongly desired. It is also important that applicants have some basic knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy and the physiology of bone, and are truly motivated to work in this space.
PhD scholarship
If successful in securing either an Australian or University funded scholarship, the award will provide living allowances and tuition fees for international students for 3-3.5 years. There are comparable scholarships and awards available to domestic students. Please note that we are willing to consider applications from individuals who have secured research funding from sources other than Australian government or Universities. However, the funding may not be sufficient to support a full 3-4 year PhD project, and as such externally funded PhD will be scrutinized closely.
More information regarding University funded scholarships:
Griffith University:
Flinders University:
Queensland University of Technology:
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Research setting and facilities
· A state-of-the-art motion capture laboratories, which include the following equipment: 12-Camera Vicon MX systems, 4 AMTI force plates, 1 Bertec split belt instrumented treadmill, 16-channel Zero Wire EMG system, 16-channel wireless Noraxon EMG system, 16-channel wireless Noraxon IMU system, 1 Noraxon capacitive treadmill, and Medilogic pressure insoles.
· Imaging laboratories (pQCT, DEXA, 3D and acoustoelastography ultrasound systems).
· Motion capture and medical image processing software (Matlab, Mimics, OpenSim, Vicon Nexus, Noraxon MR3, CMISS)
· High-performance computer clusters.
· Cell and molecular biology laboratories with imaging and mechanical testing facilities.
We are a large research group, including senior professorial staff, post-doctoral research fellows, and PhD students. Our approach is to work collaboratively, but with a keen focus on research excellence.
Disclaimer
Please note that the University reserves the right to appoint by invitation and to leave positions vacant.
How to apply
If you are interested, please fist send via email, to Dr David John Saxby (d.saxby@griffith.edu.au), Dr Claudio Pizzolato (c.pizzolato@griffith.edu.au), Dr Laura Diamond (l.diamond@griffith.edu.au), Dr Saulo Martelli (saulo.martelli@flinders.edu.au), Prof Belinda Beck (b.beck@griffith.edu.au), and Prof Peter Pivonka (peter.pivonka@qut.edu.au).
1) A brief (1-page maximum) covering letter, describing your background, interests, and why you would be a good candidate for the listed research project.
2) Your CV.
3) Academic transcripts (do not need to notarized versions).
4) Evidence of English language competency (e.g., IELTS, overall >=7, no band <6).
Applicants will be thoroughly evaluated for merit and suitability. Successful applicants will be notified promptly, after which they will be required to apply directly to the respective University. Prospective candidates are strongly advised to review the University application process. Particular attention should be paid to the documentation required and the standards for excellence. International students are advised to review the requirements for Australian Visa applications.
Gold Coast Orthopaedic Research and Education Alliance (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia.
Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia.
Faculty of Science and Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Queensland, Australia.
The research project
This multi-institution collaborative research project involves the development of modelling simulations for bone mechanics under physiologically relevant conditions. Specifically, the project aims to understand the mechanical conditions surrounding those individuals at risk of fracture that do not respond to exercise interventions that otherwise promote adaptive bone re-modelling. The paradigm we envision to be used in this project is the development subject-specific finite element method simulations, informed by consistent subject-specific rigid multi-body neuromusculoskeletal models, to probe key questions regarding the influence of muscle geometry, muscle activation/coordination, and joint kinematics on femoral neck stresses and strains during dynamic therapeutic exercises, such as squats and dead-lifts.
PhD candidate profile
A successful candidate is expected to hold a bachelor’s degree with first-class honours or second-class honours (Division A) or a master’s degree highly awarded. These degrees should incorporate a significant research component (i.e., >30% of the credits awarded should be attributed to the research component) in either mechanical engineering, biomechanics, or related degrees. Essential skills include strong knowledge of rigid multi-body and continuum dynamics, and excellent skills in Python and/or MATLAB (and C++ if possible) programming languages. Evidence of competent work with finite element modelling software (e.g., FEBio, Comsol, ABAQUS, etc.) is strongly desired. It is also important that applicants have some basic knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy and the physiology of bone, and are truly motivated to work in this space.
PhD scholarship
If successful in securing either an Australian or University funded scholarship, the award will provide living allowances and tuition fees for international students for 3-3.5 years. There are comparable scholarships and awards available to domestic students. Please note that we are willing to consider applications from individuals who have secured research funding from sources other than Australian government or Universities. However, the funding may not be sufficient to support a full 3-4 year PhD project, and as such externally funded PhD will be scrutinized closely.
More information regarding University funded scholarships:
Griffith University:
Flinders University:
Queensland University of Technology:
Research setting and facilities
· A state-of-the-art motion capture laboratories, which include the following equipment: 12-Camera Vicon MX systems, 4 AMTI force plates, 1 Bertec split belt instrumented treadmill, 16-channel Zero Wire EMG system, 16-channel wireless Noraxon EMG system, 16-channel wireless Noraxon IMU system, 1 Noraxon capacitive treadmill, and Medilogic pressure insoles.
· Imaging laboratories (pQCT, DEXA, 3D and acoustoelastography ultrasound systems).
· Motion capture and medical image processing software (Matlab, Mimics, OpenSim, Vicon Nexus, Noraxon MR3, CMISS)
· High-performance computer clusters.
· Cell and molecular biology laboratories with imaging and mechanical testing facilities.
We are a large research group, including senior professorial staff, post-doctoral research fellows, and PhD students. Our approach is to work collaboratively, but with a keen focus on research excellence.
Disclaimer
Please note that the University reserves the right to appoint by invitation and to leave positions vacant.
How to apply
If you are interested, please fist send via email, to Dr David John Saxby (d.saxby@griffith.edu.au), Dr Claudio Pizzolato (c.pizzolato@griffith.edu.au), Dr Laura Diamond (l.diamond@griffith.edu.au), Dr Saulo Martelli (saulo.martelli@flinders.edu.au), Prof Belinda Beck (b.beck@griffith.edu.au), and Prof Peter Pivonka (peter.pivonka@qut.edu.au).
1) A brief (1-page maximum) covering letter, describing your background, interests, and why you would be a good candidate for the listed research project.
2) Your CV.
3) Academic transcripts (do not need to notarized versions).
4) Evidence of English language competency (e.g., IELTS, overall >=7, no band <6).
Applicants will be thoroughly evaluated for merit and suitability. Successful applicants will be notified promptly, after which they will be required to apply directly to the respective University. Prospective candidates are strongly advised to review the University application process. Particular attention should be paid to the documentation required and the standards for excellence. International students are advised to review the requirements for Australian Visa applications.