PhD position: Control of Wearable Robots to Interface with and Influence Human Motor Control of Walking

The goal of this project is to advance gait entrainment technology and understanding towards an effective gait therapy for people with movement disorders.

The main distinction between conventional robotic gait therapy and gait entrainment with wearable robots is the mechanism of human-machine interaction. In conventional robotic gait therapy, exoskeletons/exosuits (exos) physically assist movement of the limbs and aim to make walking easier by reducing the requisite human effort. In gait entrainment, the exo delivers small torque pulses to the leg thus encouraging subconscious adaptation in walking pattern. Exos for gait entrainment require less torque generation and power than their conventional counterparts, which unlocks new design possibilities. The requirements for the robot control system also differ between the two exoskeleton classes.

The key undertaking of the PhD student is to develop robust controllers for the exoskeleton torque pulses. Dependent on project progress and the successful candidates interest, other aspects of the project may include mechanical design, developing predictive or personalized control systems, investigating gait biomechanics, and working with clinical populations. The successful candidate will publish their work in academic journals and have opportunities to present their work at national and international conferences, building academic and/or industrial networks to support their future career. Additionally, the PhD candidate will contribute to the education of Bachelor’s and Masters’s students at the University of Twente.

The UT provides a dynamic and international environment, combining the benefits of academic research, excellent working conditions, enthusiastic colleagues, an exciting scientific environment, and a green and lively campus. We offer:

• A full-time four-year PhD position.
• A starting salary of € 2.901- in the first year and growing to € 3.707,- in the fourth-year gross per month.
• 30% tax ruling option.
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment.
• A proven pension scheme.
• Professional and personal development programs.
• Extraordinary research facilities and working environment:
• Access to the several laboratories and specialist equipment within the Biomechanical Engineering Department.
• Work location within a knowledge park with direct access to a large number of tech-companies and start-ups.
• Fun work atmosphere with social events.
• Proximity to Enschede, a mid-size city with a busy social scene, embedded in the beautiful nature of the Twente region.

Please submit your application before 31st January 2025 by using the “Apply now” button. Interviews will be held in mid-late February. Intended start time between March - June 2025.
Applications must include the following materials (all in English):

• A cover letter (maximum 1 page A4) detailing your interests, motivation for this position, and why you are a good fit for the project.
• A 2 minute video in which you present your authentic self, your motivation, and relevant research experience & skills.
• A full Curriculum Vitae including your English proficiency level, nationality & visa requirements, experience overview, concise summary of previous research, publications (if any), and relevant skills/expertise.
• An academic transcript of Bachelor and Masters education, including grades.
• Contact information for at least two academic references. A support letter will be requested only if your application is considered.

Additional information about this position can be acquired from Dr. Mhairi K. MacLean (M.K.MacLean@utwente.nl).
Dr. MacLean joins the department of Biomechanical Engineering as an assistant professor in 2022. She has recorded a video on her mentorship style for this position.

Please, only apply via the web platform and do not apply via email.