PHD position in Novel “virtual therapist” control to tailor the robotic support to the person’s contribution

Job description
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Adjusting the support provided by a robotic gait trainer to match each person’s performance is a challenging task for therapists due to the numerous parameters that need tuning and the unclear impact of these adjustments on higher-level walking goals, such as speed and stability. To alleviate this burden, we aim to develop a novel controller using model predictive control and machine learning, which will only require the therapist to set high-level goals. The controller will estimate the required torques to achieve these objectives and compare them to the estimated human contribution to the movement. Acting as a ‘virtual therapist,’ it will append only what is needed to ensure the high-level goals are met. The controllers will be implemented and evaluated on in-house exoskeletons at both institutions, as well as on the exoskeletons of our commercial partners, ABLE and Hocoma.

Your profile
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We are seeking candidates with:
* strong background in non-linear control systems, model predictive control, machine learning, strong programming skills (e.g. Python, Matlab, C++),
* experience with biomechanical modelling and analysis of human gait,
* experience with real-time control of (wearable) robotic systems,
* an excellent command of written and spoken English,
* a team player who enjoys collaborating in multi-disciplinary teams.
Qualifications.
* Master’s degree in fields like control engineering, robotics, biomedical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering.
* The master’s degree should be obtained by March 2025.
* As this PhD is part of a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral training network this mobility rule applies: you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date.

Our offer
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* A full-time 4-year PhD position. In this position you will work the first two years at the University of Twente, the third year at BioRobotics Group CSIC of CSIC in Spain and the fourth year again at the University of Twente.
* 2 short term research stays (1-3 months) at Able Human Motion in Spain and Hocoma in Switzerland
* The position comes with a 30% tax ruling option and a pension scheme.
* A salary of € 2872,- during the first year, increasing to € 3670,- in the fourth year.
* Holiday and end-of-year bonuses.
* A minimum of 29 days of holidays.
* Professional and personal development programs.
* Access to Wearable robotics outstanding research facilities.
* Proximity to Enschede, a mid-size city with a large social offer, immersed in the nature of the Twente region.
* Fun work atmosphere with social lab retreats.

Information and application
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Apply by January 8 2025. Applications must include the following documents:
* A cover letter (1-page max) specifying how your experience and skills match the position as well as summarizing work in your masters.
* A CV in Euorpass Format.
* Your diploma and transcript of records (BSc and MSc)
* Recommentation letters (if available)
* A 2-min video presenting yourself and stating motivation to follow a PhD in this topic (in English)
The first round of interviews will take place online on 27 January 2025. The second round of interviews will take place on 19 February 2025. The aim is to start the position on 1 April 2025.
For questions, please contact dr. Edwin van Asseldonk, mail: [email protected].
Please, only apply via the project website of TAILOR.
Here you can also find more information about the project and other positions. This PhD position is indicated with DC5 withing the project.

About the organisation
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The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first’ university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor’s and Master’s students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.