Rupture of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries is responsible for life threatening cerebrovascular events such as stroke. However, current clinical practice for prediction of these events is suboptimal since it does not involve carotid plaque rupture risk assessment, mainly because no reliable risk assessment tools exist.

Plaque rupture is a mechanical event, where plaque tissue fails to bear the mechanical loading exerted by the blood pressure. Hence, biomechanics holds the potential to provide us with plaque rupture risk stratification tools. A major research line in the Biomechanics Laboratory of Erasmus Medical Center is atherosclerotic plaque rupture mechanics, with the specific goals of unraveling plaque rupture mechanisms and developing clinical tools for rupture risk assessment.

Within the scope of a recently EU-granted research project, we are investigating carotid plaque rupture using the combination of mechanical rupture experiments, biomechanical modelling and ultrasound strain imaging in an ex-vivo setting. The PhD student will participate in this research line, primarily focusing on the clinical translation of the findings from the ex-vivo laboratory work.

We are looking for candidates who has/will obtain soon an MSc degree in technical medicine, (bio)medical engineering or a closely related technical discipline, or a doctor of medicine (MD) with strong technical background/interest. Experience in patient studies, and ultrasound and/or clinical imaging for biomedical applications is preferred. The research project should result in a PhD thesis. Being able to present a certificate of good conduct is a condition for the appointment.

The gross monthly salary amounts a maximum of € 2.919,- (scale OIO), depending on your level of education and relevant experience and based on a full-time working week of 36 hours. The terms of employment are in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education, and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Department of Biomedical Engineering (Thorax Center) is a group of 40 researchers performing highly innovative research in cardiovascular diagnosis and therapy. The Biomechanics Research Team of the Biomedical Engineering Department is composed of engineers, biologists and clinicians, closely collaborating on cutting-edge cardiovascular research. The Lab combines fundamental, translational, experimental, numerical and clinical studies in the cardiovascular field. Its vibrant working environment attracts highly motivated researchers from all over the world.