The Institute for Orthopaedic Research and Training (IORT)is a multidisciplinary group associated with KU Leuven and the University Hospitals Leuven. We work primarily in the Department of Orthopaedics, with the goal of leveraging cutting edge research with clinical expertise to ultimately enhance surgical protocols and improve patient outcomes. We work toward this goal by providing opportunities for surgical training while conducting innovative research. In this endeavour, in vitro joint simulators have proven to be some of our most useful tools. In vitro joint simulators have the ability to impose controlled motion and physiological loading on cadaveric joints. They provide unprecedented insights into how joint mechanics are affected by orthopaedic procedures, leading to fundamental insights, supporting improved patient outcomes. Two such in vitro simulator systems are currently available at KU Leuven: a knee joint simulator and a foot- ankle complex simulator.
Responsibilities
The candidate is expected to further advance our ongoing research line on in vitro simulator-based evaluation of orthopaedic interventions to the knee and ankle joint, including arthroplasty and ligament reconstructive surgery. He/she will oversee and further develop translational activities with an existing network of clinical and industrial partners, including the use of in vitro simulators for advanced orthopaedic training and education. Furthermore, the candidate will take up an active role in scientific dissemination of ongoing and planned research and contribute to defining the future valorization and grant application strategy.
This funded project involves multi-disciplinary collaborations between the IORT (Prof. L. Scheys), the Human Movement Biomechanics Lab (Prof. I. Jonkers), the division of Biomechanics (Prof. J. Vander Sloten and Prof. L. Labey) and the Anatomy Skills Center (Prof. P. Herijgers). In obtaining the project goals the successful candidate will supervise and coordinate activities of two technical assistants appointed to this project.
Profile
Highly motivated applicants with a doctoral degree (PhD) in biomechanics, biomedical engineering or a related discipline are invited. Knowledge of human joint biomechanics, biomechanical testing, control system design (preferably in Labview), musculoskeletal simulations or mechanical design are useful assets. We expect the candidate to demonstrate strong communication and writing skills in English. In addition to the interest in solving scientific problems through in-vitro biomechanical experiments, experience with, or affinity for, the valorisation and clinical translation of biomechanical research in collaboration with clinical or industrial partners is highly valued.
Offer
The position is being offered for 2 years. Extension is subject to satisfactory progress. Salary will be offered full-time, according to university regulations and depending on level of qualification. Location of work will primarily be in University Hospitals Leuven – campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.
Additionally, we offer:
- a young, highly motivated and international team of researchers,
- a modern, dynamic working environment,
- in a state-of-the-art laboratory conveniently located within the centre of Leuven, Belgium,
- a strong supervisory team with room for own initiative,
- the possibility for unique interactions with high-level, research-oriented orthopaedic surgeons,
- integration in our international network of academic and industrial partners.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Lennart Scheys, tel.: +3216340885, mail: lennart.scheys@kuleuven.be, Prof. Dr. Ilse Jonkers, mail: ilse.jonkers@kuleuven.be or Mrs. Goedele Liegeois, mail: iort@uzleuven.be
You can apply for this job no later than July 16, 2018 via the online application tool.
KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.