The Computational Mathematics group of the University of Groningen has one post-doc position on imaged-based numerical modeling of the cardiovascular system. The position is embedded in the project "CardioZoom: High-Fidelity Cardiovascular Modeling from super-fast Magnetic Resonance Imaging", a 1.5M Euro, 5-year ERC-Starting Grant awarded to Prof. Cristóbal Bertoglio by the European Research Council Therefore, the post-doc will join a vibrant and collaborative research group, with access to a wide (inter-)national and multidisciplinary scientific network.

Research topic
Biophysical computational models of the cardiovascular system need to be adapted to each particular patient from clinical data. The state-of-the-art imaging method for assessing cardiovascular diseases is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which is hence the preferred source of data for the personalization of the models. However, MRI is still not able to reliably image the kinematics of thin structures like cardiac valves and the arterial wall. Moreover, MRI measurements of the 3D kinematics of the heart are a challenging task. These restrictions hamper the clinical translation of patient-specific modeling. Therefore, a new paradigm for model personalization is urgently needed. The ambition of CardioZoom is to propose novel methods for biophysical parameter estimation in computational models of the heart, large vessels and valves using MRI data acquired in very short scan times. The approach will be based on the deep integration of imaging and biophysical principles, relaxing the constraints of standard cardiovascular imaging implying long MRI scans. Validations using experimental and volunteers’ data will be performed. The findings of CardioZoom will allow obtaining clinically feasible, detailed characterizations of the cardiovascular system.

The research activities of the announced position will focus on the development of computational methods for the estimation of mechanical properties of fluid-solid models in the heart from “raw” magnetic resonance images involving, hence involving no or little manual processing. More details will be given during the interview.

Therefore, the sucessful candidate will gain (additional) expertise numerical fluid and solid mechanics, inverse problems, and medical imaging, areas where our group is internationally recognized.

We look for talented and dedicated candidates with a PhD in Applied Mathematics / Modeling & Simulation with strong mathematical contents (or equivalent). The candidate has to possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English and be enthusiastic to work in a team, as well as to contribute to its development. The ideal candidates will also be highly motivated to contribute to advancing the medical technology field and have the ability to work independently and efficiently.

Strong programming experience in Python or other similar language is a must. It is also mandatory to have proved experience in implementing, analysing and critically assessing numerical methods fluid and/or solid mechanics problems, with proven publications track e.g. during her/his PhD research. Knowledge of inverse problems and/or medical imaging is an advantage, but can be acquired during the project.

We offer you, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary with a minimum of € 3,420 up to a maximum of € 4,490 gross per month in the first year (salary scale 10), based on a full-time position and depending on the qualification and work experience. The salary is incremented every year, up to the aforementioned maximum
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus and participation in a pension scheme for employees
• a time-limited contract starting as soon as possible, the earliest about 2-3 months after accepting the offer. The contract will end by the end of September 2025
• an opportunity of participating in teaching activities (e.g., lecturing in regular courses in Applied Mathematics), possibly leading to the acquisition of the Dutch Teaching Qualification (BKO).
• an opportunity to (co-)supervise Master and Bachelor students
• an attractive budget for participation at conferences.

The University of Groningen has adopted an active policy to increase the number of female scientists across all disciplines of the University. Therefore, female candidates are especially encouraged to apply.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

The University of Groningen is a research university with a global outlook, deeply rooted in Groningen, City of Talent. Quality has had top priority for four hundred years, and with success: the University is currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists.