Within Surgery challenges are recognized to be solved by novel sensing technology. During surgical procedures soft tissues need to be dissected, manipulated and repositioned very accurately to reduce unnecessary tissue damage and pain. Re-connecting soft tissue structures safely require precise force and tension sensing. The amount of sensing information is currently limited and subjective. Within the Sensing in Surgery program we aim to join forces to bring existing soft tissue sensing technology in the clinic and provide surgeon with extra sensing information so that post surgical soft tissue pain can be largely reduced. We will use a human-centric design approach and co-creation involving clinicians, designers, entrepreneurs and engineers to develop a easy-to-manufacture, easy-to-use and easy-to clean neck force module based on a bare minimum design principle. With this neck force module i.c.w. a standard ROM test performed with the leg during placement of the implant, surgeons receive information about the soft tissue balance around the implant. This force information coming from the temporary force module should be provided through a monitoring system that translate data into instructions and clear informative graphs that indicate what choices can be made regarding the implant configuration (lenght angle) in order to improve soft tissue tension and balance.

A PhD in Biomechanical engineering/ Biomedical engineering/industrial designing is, however, particularly relevant.

Strong academic basis with proven track record in design and development projects in the field of medical devices and interests for and competence in sensory systems, programming (Pyton, C or matlab) development, development  is required.

Experience with R&D work 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: 3 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.

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 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits. 

The Department of Biomechanical Engineering coordinates the education and research activities in the field of mechanical engineering techniques, such as modelling and design, to analyse the interaction between biological and technical systems.
The Minimally Invasive Surgery and Interventional Techniques Group (MISIT) of the Department of Biomechanical Engineering 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. Apart from Medical Delta, a strong collaboration between orthopedic departments in Elkerliek hospital,  Acadamic Medical Center Amsterdam and reinier de Graaf Hospital in delft is established to improve and objectify Orthopedic Procedures.

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