Researchers all around the world started to develop models able to predict changes in the health status of an individual patient. These research activities showed that in many cases there was indeed enough knowledge to build accurate models, and that the resulting complexity could be tamed with the flexibility of modern modelling technologies, and the huge computational power now available. More recently, these technologies were applied in a new concept dubbed "In-Silico Clinical Trials": the use of modelling & simulation for the development and derisking of new medical products. The aim of the InSilicoWorld project - a recently funded M7€ European project (insilico.world)- is to accelerate the uptake of these technologies for the development and regulatory assessment of medicines and medical devices. Several tracks withing this project are identified, including the development of better models for the use in the reduction, refinement of replacement of the clinical trials required for the certification of new medical products, and validation collections addressing the issue of the lack of widely available collections of curated medical data specifically designed for the development and the validation of In Silico Trials technologies.

There is a collaborative effort between the Erasmus Medical Center (dr. Gijsen), Eindhoven University of Technology (prof. van de Vosse), and the University of Amsterdam (prof. Hoekstra) to explore coronary applications for the InSilicoWorld project. We will focus on the clinical problems related coronary artery disease with a main focus on in-stent restenosis and thrombosis. We will further develop numerical models to describe these processes, curate and mine clinical imaging databases that can be used to validate these models, and generate platforms to apply these models in an in-silico clinical trial setting. A truly exciting opportunity for highly motivated students wanting to expand their knowledge on and contribute to this rapidly evolving and extremely exiting research field on the boundaries between computational modelling, imaging and clinical science. Participation of the students in the other projects in Eindhoven and Amsterdam will be stimulated.

• Candidates are expected to have a MSc in a relevant field, such as Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Technology or related, and preferably have experience in interdisciplinary projects.
• Students with a medical background and a strong interest in engineering and imaging are also invited to apply.
• For all applicants, background knowledge in Cardiovascular Biomechanics, Image Analyses, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Arrtificial Intelligence applications, and related areas are considered an advantage.
• Furthermore, you have a creative and pro-active attitude with good analytical skills, the ability to combine creativity with a sound academic attitude, excellent communication skills in English, both in writing and speaking, and are a good team player.
• The research project should result in scientific publications, conference presentations, and ultimately in a PhD thesis.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.495,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.196,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

The Department of Biomedical Engineering (Thorax Center) is a group of over 70 researchers performing highly innovative research in cardiovascular diagnosis and therapy. performing highly innovative research in cardiovascular diagnosis and therapy. The Biomedical Engineering Department is composed of engineers, biologists and clinicians, closely collaborating on cutting-edge cardiovascular research. Its vibrant working environment attracts highly motivated researchers from all over the world.

We focus on translational research combining biomechanical modelling, clinical imaging with ultrasound and light, ultrasound contrast agents for molecular imaging and drug delivery. We recently established a Cardiovascular Biomechanics Laboratory in close collaboration with the TUDelft, and the PhD candidate will be part of this joined research facility