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PhD Position: Predicting Efficacy of neuromodulation in epilepsy

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PhD Position: Predicting Efficacy of neuromodulation in epilepsy

Deadline Published Vacancy ID 792

Academic fields

Health

Job types

PhD

Education level

University graduate

Weekly hours

40 hours per week

Salary indication

€2541—€3247 per month

Location

Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede

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Job description

Within the Clinical Neurophysiology group of the Institute of Technical Medicine we have available a PhD position for a project entitled:

Predicting Efficacy of Neuromodulation in Epilepsy (PREDYct)

In patients with medically refractory epilepsy vagus nerve stimulation and deep brain stimulation are possible treatment options. While effective in several patients, about 30-50% of patients do not respond favorably to this treatment.

This project aims to identify novel biomarkers to predict the success of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) using ultra-long (up to more than a year) EEG measurements with a subcutaneous electrode (© UNEEG). This is complemented with (functional) MRI and high-density EEG recordings. Patients who are candidates for VNS will be implanted with the UNEEG device 2 months before implantation of the VNS. Treatment effects will be evaluated with the UNEEG electrode, complemented with diaries and questionnaires regarding epilepsy related symptoms. At present, nine patients have been implanted with the UNEEG electrode.

This project is a collaboration between the CNPH group of the University of Twente, the Neurocenter group (neurosurgery, neurology and clinical neurophysiology) of the Medisch Spectrum Twente and the epilepsy center SEIN in Zwolle.

This project is funded by the Dutch epilepsy foundation, EpilepsyNL.

Requirements

  • We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with an MSc degree in Technical Medicine or Biomedical Engineering.
  • A very strong interest in clinical research, epilepsy, biomedical signal analysis and machine learning is essential.
  • Candidates need to have good organizing and social skills as he/she will be involved in patient recruitment, implantation of the UNEEG devices and measurements in the hospital.
  • Since communication with the patients is an essential part of this PhD position, speaking Dutch is preferred.
  • A strong background in signal analysis and machine learning is also required to work with the ultra-long and highly innovative data.
  • The candidate must like to work both in an hospital environment with patients medical specialists, as well as in the interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment of the university.
  • An interview and presentation will be part of the selection procedure.

Conditions of employment

  • We offer a scientific education on a multidisciplinary subject. The assignment is for four years, with a go/no go assessment at the end of the first year.
  • Fulltime position for four years.
  • The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in a stimulating scientific environment.
  • The PhD salary is € 2.541,- in the first year and increases to € 3.247,- in the fourth year.
  • A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
  • The number of holiday hours for full-time employment is 232 hours per calendar year.
  • A personal development program within the Twente Graduate School.

Department

The clinical neurophysiology group is an interdisciplinary research group at the University focusing on translational research in epilepsy and cerebral ischaemia. The EEG is a key clinical and research tool. EEG signal analysis includes various machine learning techniques to improve diagnostic values and (bedside) application. Applied EEG studies are complemented by biophysical modeling and simulation for improved understanding of underlying neuronal dynamics and prediction of treatment effects. For more information, see our [website](https://www.utwente.nl/en/tnw/cnph/)

At the Neurocentrum of the Medisch Spectrum Twente neurologists, neurosurgeons, residents and technical physicians are involved in patient-care, education and research. Neuromodulation is a key expertise.

High Tech and Human Touch

Join the university of technology that puts people first. Create new possibilities for yourself, your colleagues and society as a whole. Using modern technology and science to drive innovation, change and progress. That’s what it means to work at the University of Twente.

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