Minimally invasive surgical techniques bring many advantages for patients, especially in low-resource settings, because of e.g. a reduced risk of infection and shorter hospital stays. Unfortunately, thecurrently used devices are expensive and difficult to clean, and require a sterile operating-room environment.

We propose to develop an innovative SMART surgical equipment system, where SMART stands for Safe, Minimal dimensions, Affordable, Reliable and Transparent (=easy to use). The system will allow minimally invasive surgery without the need for a sterile operating room, even in low resource settings.

We will use a human-centric design approach and co-creation involving clinicians, designers, entrepreneurs and engineers to develop deflectable, easy-to-manufacture, easy-to-use and easy-to clean instruments based on a new rotating shaft principle, an isolator system to protect the incision and instrument shaft from (dirty) open air, and other affordable equipment needed. Prototype testing will be done together with clinical groups in India, (new) spin-off companies and surgical device certification experts. After testing, the developed instruments will be ready for full scale clinical testing.

The SMART surgical system will change the way surgery can be performed in low-resource settings, making minimally invasive surgery accessible for patients all over the world.  

A master of science in Biomechanical engineering/Biomedical engineering/Mechanical engineering/Industrial designing is, however, particularly relevant.

Strong academic record with proven track record in design and development projects in medical device development is required

Special interests for and competence in tech development, developmentor other R&D work for developmental area's within a research institute or universities in the health sector can be advantageous.

We emphasize collaborative skills, initiative, ability to accomplish tasks, practical skills, and ability to create and establish new projects in collaboration with colleagues.     

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Minimally Invasive Surgery and Interventional Techniques Group (MISIT) is part of the Department of Biomechanical Engineering; Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, TU Delft. The MISIT group has been working on minimally invasive devices for over 20 years and this research has resulted in multiple spin-off companies. The group also plays an important role in Medical Delta, a multidisciplinary collaboration between Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC) and TU Delft aimed at breakthroughs in the areas of life science, health and technology. Within our recently initiated Global and Sustainable Surgery tracks we aim to expand Minimally Invasive instruments and equipment towards low resource settings by applying fundamental new modular components and working mechanisms that allow easy cleaning and sterilisation after use.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me