The project "Advancing Musculoskeletal Research through Automated Muscle Feature Detection and Injury Identification using High-Resolution 3D Ultrasound Imaging" aims to develop tools for the automated detection of muscle architecture and features related to physical performance. These tools aim to enhance the treatment of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, with a focus on patients with Cerebral Palsy, low back pain, and MSK injuries, as well as older adults and elite athletes, by optimizing performance and recovery.

Your research will focus on the automatic detection of key aspects of muscle architecture—such as muscle volume, fascicle length, and pennation angle—while also exploring pathophysiological characteristics like fibrosis, fat infiltration, and inflammation. While the measurement of muscle architecture is well-established, detecting and quantifying these pathophysiological conditions remains challenging. The aim is to validate these measures and develop robust models for reliably assessing both muscle architecture and pathophysiological characteristics, ultimately enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.

This project uses high-resolution 3D ultrasound imaging to detect these features, with validation through MRI and cadaveric studies. We also aim to explore the use of 2D ultrasound in our models by training AI on 3D ultrasound and MRI data, potentially expanding the capabilities of more widely available 2D ultrasound in clinical settings.

Responsibility:

• Assist in developing and validating tools for the automated detection of muscle architecture, fibrosis, fat infiltration, and inflammation in ultrasound images, in collaboration with senior researchers
• Train AI models using labelled 3D ultrasound volumes and validate these models against MRI and cadaveric data
• Explore the potential of 2D ultrasound imaging for identifying these factors, leveraging insights from 3D Ultrasound and MRI data
• Collaborate with clinicians and researchers in relevant clinical studies.
• Collect data, develop algorithms, and validate findings
• Actively engage in publication, grant writing, and workshops to disseminate knowledge

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a background in AI and image processing, who is eager to contribute to and grow within this innovative research. The ideal candidate is resourceful, curious, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Familiarity with anatomical research, particularly within musculoskeletal structures and ultrasound imaging, is highly desirable.

• A PhD that demonstrates experience in training AI models and implementing machine learning algorithms, particularly for automated image feature detection
• Experience in musculoskeletal research, using imaging modalities such as ultrasound or MRI.
• A pragmatic self-starter with strong problem-solving skills, able to work independently, make decisions, think innovatively, and proactively seek solutions
• A passion for advancing musculoskeletal research and delivering impactful, real-world results

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

We provide a dynamic and stimulating work environment at the Amsterdam Movement Sciences research institute. At the VU Amsterdam, your contributions are truly valued. In return for your efforts, we offer:

• A salary of minimum € 3.345,00 (scale 10-0) and maximum € 5.278,00 (scale 10-12) gross per month, based on UFO profile Researcher 4. The exact salary depends on your education and experience.
• This position is for at least 0.8 FTE, with the option to work full-time. The contract is initially for 1 year, with the possibility of an extension based on an evaluation, up to a total of 29 months (full-time)
• The anticipated start date is January 1, 2025.

In addition, we offer a range of attractive benefits, including:

• A full-time 38-hour work week with 232 hours of annual leave. If you opt for a 40-hour work week, you'll earn an extra 96 hours of holiday leave annually. For part-time roles, this is adjusted pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• A solid pension scheme (ABP).
• Options to customize your benefits package.
• A contribution to your commuting expenses

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences
Developing knowledge for an active, healthy and meaningful life: that is our mission at the Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences at VU Amsterdam. We maintain a broad focus on the fields of behaviour and health. Our teaching and research programmes are devoted to current developments in society. From healthy aging to e-health, and from training top athletes to social media as a teaching tool. We combine three academic disciplines: psychology, movement sciences and education. A multidisciplinary approach allows us to arrive at a better understanding of human behaviour and movement. Our aims are to help people live healthier lives, learn better and function better.

Are you interested in joining Behavioural and Movement Sciences? You are the kind of person who feels at home working in an ambitious faculty, with an informal atmosphere and short lines of communication. We offer you all the space you need for personal development. Together with your 630 colleagues, you will take care of about 4,200 students.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely - a broader mind. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces, across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research. Learn more about our codes of conduct

We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility. Over 6,150 staff work at the VU and over 31,000 students attend academic education.

Amsterdam Movement Sciences:
Amsterdam Movement Sciences is a prominent research institute dedicated to improving human movement and mobility through innovative research and multidisciplinary collaboration. The institute integrates knowledge from various disciplines, including medicine, biology, biomechanics, and behavioral sciences, to address complex issues related to human movement. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on translational research, Amsterdam Movement Sciences aims to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical application, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals with movement-related disorders. For more information, visit the Amsterdam Movement Sciences website.

Diversity
Diversity is the driving force of VU Amsterdam. VU wants to be accessible and receptive to diversity in disciplines, cultures, ideas, nationalities, beliefs, preferences and worldviews. We believe that trust, respect, interest and differences lead to new insights and innovation, to sharpness and clarity, to excellence and a broader understanding.

We stand for an inclusive community and believe that diversity and internationalisation contribute to the quality of education, research and our services.

Therefore, we are always searching for people whose backgrounds and experience contribute to the diversity of the VU community.

Are you the passionate and driven researcher we are looking for? Then we invite you to apply no later than 15-10-2024. The application process consists of two interviews and an employment interview. Join our team and contribute to groundbreaking research that will reshape the way we understand and treat musculoskeletal conditions.

For more information about our research activities, visit the Amsterdam Movement Sciences website.

Applications received by e-mail will not be considered.

Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.