Postdoctoral Researcher, Cardiovascular Fluid-Structure Interaction and Optimization, Delft University of Technology (Delft, NL)

[Mathias Peirlinck]

Optimized Surgical Techniques and Materials through Multi-Physics Organ Modelling.

Job description
The candidate will be involved in a multi-disciplinary cardiovascular biomechanics research project at TU Delft, focusing on the development of soft organ multi-physics models of the cardiovascular system. The developed framework aims at providing engineering insights in soft tissue behavior and treatment strategies of congenital heart defects. The long-term goal is to improve patient-specific treatment strategies and to design enhanced surgical materials and equipment. This project will be run in close collaboration with clinical partners at Erasmus MC Hospital in Rotterdam.

Requirements
We are looking for a candidate who holds, or is about to obtain, a PhD degree in Engineering (Mechanics, BioMechanics, BioMedical, Aerospace, Mathematics or equivalent) focusing on one of the following topics: biomechanics, biophysics, in silico tissue/organ modeling, medical device design, structural optimization. The candidate has a background and is interested in multi-disciplinary research combining medical sciences, physical sciences, and engineering to foster the development of improved individual healthcare.

A list of desirable skills includes, but is not limited to,

• hands-on experience in programming (C++, Python, Matlab, etc.)
• knowledge in advanced finite element analysis (FEA) and FEA software (constitutive modeling, mathematical modeling, solid/fluid mechanics, fluid-structure interaction)
• expertise in optimization techniques, topology optimization
• experience in uncertainty quantification and/or machine learning techniques
• medical imaging processing techniques

Additionally, the candidate is expected to be fluent in English (both spoken and written), to work independently and conduct top-notch research. They will present research findings at (inter-)national conferences and publish results in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.

Conditions of employment
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.548 - € 4.474 per month). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

The position has a fixed-term contract of 1 year. Follow-up options will be discussed.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply by December 5, 2021 via the application page and upload:

• A motivation letter including a description of your background/experience and a statement about your research interests;
• A detailed CV;
• The contact information of 2 references.

The available position will be filled as soon as possible (i.e. once a suitable candidate is found). This means that the selection of candidates will already start before the application deadline.
A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.