Most of the research in robot-assisted gait training in stroke rehabilitation has focused on designing rigid exoskeletons or end-effector devices to guide the legs/feet of neurologic patients in a “correct” gait pattern. However, research on motor learning has stated that patients’ effort and error/environment exploration (i.e., the active exploration of new motor tasks) is crucial to boost motor (re)learning. Further, Neuroscience suggests that both realistic visual and somatic sensory information play a fundamental role in generating skillful movements. Thus robots should be designed and controlled to adapt and respond to patients’ efforts while promoting an enriched somatosensory experience during training to achieve maximal and tailored therapeutic effects.

For this project, you will be involved in the (re)design of robotic devices for locomotion rehabilitation and in the development of new patient-personalized control strategies to enhance rehabilitation outcomes by leveraging realistic visual and somatic feedback. First, you will exploit VR-based techniques, such as embodiment and motivation, to design immersive VR that maximizes skill acquisition. Second, you will augment heavily-constructed exoskeletons with fine haptic capabilities through advanced controllers to provide congruent somatosensory stimulation during assisted training to enhance motor learning.

In this project, you will collaborate closely with our clinical partners at Erasmus MC, Rotterdam in the design concept and will evaluate the new technology in patients with brain injuries.

Near-future robot intelligence offers great potential for our society, provided we can co-operate with this technology. The Human-Robot Interaction group is embedded in the Cognitive Robotics Department at TU Delft, where we aim to contribute to the responsible development of robotic technologies in human-inhabited environments. We do so by research organized in four groups: computer vision for intelligent vehicles, machine learning for learning and autonomous control, robot dynamics and human-robot interaction.

In the Human-Robot Interaction group we work on Motor Learning and Neurorehabilitation Robotics (the team headed by Laura Marchal-Crespo), Cognitive Human-Robot Interaction (the team headed by Joost de Winter), and on Physical Human-Robot Interaction (the Delft Haptics Lab, a team headed by David Abbink). Strong collaborations exist with cross-faculty institutes (TU Delft Robotics Institute and TU Delft Transport Institute), our national robotic ecosystem (RoboValley, Holland Robotics), Clinical partners (Erasmus MC), and international industry and academia.

• An MSc degree in Robotics, System and Control, computer science, human factors, biomedical engineering, or related areas.
• Open-mindedness and motivation to embark on interdisciplinary research.
• Affinity with teaching and supervising students.
• Solid programming skills.
• Ability to take initiative.
• Proficient in verbal and written English.

Candidates with a strong track record in rehabilitation robotics, human-robot interaction, and computer graphics are especially encouraged to apply. In addition, experience with one or more of the following topics is considered a plus: motor learning, AI, and movement science.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to € 3061 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.