PhD position on Wireless Capsule Endoscopy and Magnetic Navigation

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join a project focused on developing a clinically compliant wireless platform for navigated capsule endoscopy and lesion detection. The research will investigate novel strategies for magnetic navigation, real-time localization, and robotic actuation of video capsules inside the gastrointestinal tract.

The candidate will design and implement a control framework that enables clinician-guided navigation, with validation in anatomical phantoms and ex vivo tissue. The ultimate aim is to improve diagnostic accuracy in gastrointestinal screening while maintaining patient comfort and safety.

In this PhD project you will:

• Conduct system integration and bench-level testing to validate performance in terms of navigation and orientation accuracy, responsiveness, stability, safety, and usability under clinically relevant constraints.
• Perform ex vivo evaluations using soft-tissue models to simulate gastrointestinal navigation and refine the system’s interface and functionality based on clinician feedback.
• Contribute to preclinical deployment where the system will be used in early-stage clinical research and workflow integration within a hospital environment.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated candidate who meets the following criteria:

• Educational Background: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field. Candidates with backgrounds in Control Engineering, Mechatronics, or Medical Technology are also welcome, particularly if their thesis work involved medical robotics, control systems, or image-guided interventions.
• Experimental Skills: Experience with experimental research in robotics, medical devices, or soft-tissue phantoms is highly valued. Familiarity with system integration, sensor technologies, or imaging modalities (e.g., X-ray fluoroscopy, endoscopy) is considered a strong asset.
• Programming and Data Analysis: Proficiency in programming tools such as Python, MATLAB, or C++ is highly beneficial for control development, data analysis, and real-time system implementation. Experience with ROS/ROS2 or related robotic frameworks is an advantage.
• Communication: Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration, publication of results, and interaction with clinical partners.

The successful candidate will join the Robotics and Mechatronics (RaM) Department within the EEMCS Faculty at the University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands. This position offers ample opportunities for collaboration and interaction with academic and industrial partners.

You will work in a dynamic, highly interdisciplinary environment, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and facilities to advance the understanding and applications of micro swimmers in medical robotics.