The rupture of diseased segments (i.e., atherosclerotic plaques) in arteries is a major cause of fatal and disabling cardiovascular events. Plaque rupture is a mechanical event where the collagenous plaque tissue loses its structural integrity. The architecture of the fibrillar collagen network of a plaque is hypothesized to be a key determinant of plaque's rupture risk. Hence, computational models that involve the collagen architecture have great potential to predict the rupture risk of plaques and prevent cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

You will build and perform one-of-a-kind computational modeling simulations (FEA / XFEM / FSI) of atherosclerotic arteries for the assessment of local mechanical and failure properties, and for plaque rupture risk prediction. That way, you will not only be a front-runner in the field of atherosclerotic plaque biomechanics but also contribute greatly to the prevention of fatal/disabling cardiovascular events.

• You have a strong interest and/or experience in (cardiovascular) tissue biomechanics, computational modeling (FEA/FSI/XFEM), and continuum mechanics.
• You hold or are about to obtain an MSc degree from a technical program such as Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Applied Physics, or similar.
• You are creative, a team player, and eager to take initiative.
• You gave good communication skills, and are fluent in both written and spoken English.

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.901,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.677,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a individual travel expense package.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a incompany physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

Erasmus MC

You will become a part of the Cardiovascular Biomechanics Group at Erasmus MC. This Group consists of engineers, biologists and clinicians, strongly driven by the scientific motivation of performing innovative, cutting-edge cardiovascular research. The Group combines fundamental, experimental, computational, ranslational and clinical studies in the cardiovascular field, and closely collaborates with other research groups at the Biomedical Engineering Department, clinical and research departments of Erasmus MC, and the Biomechanical Engineering Dept. of Delft University of Technology. You will be also a member of the Cardiovascular Biomechanics Group at Technical University of Delft.