Post Summary
An exciting, fully-funded 4-year PhD position is available at the Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in collaboration with Amsterdam UMC. This interdisciplinary research project, titled “Foot4Thought” (funded by ZonMW), focuses on using multimodal computational modeling (statistical shape models and finite element models) to understand normal and altered foot growth in children with cerebral palsy, aiming to prevent foot deformities and improve clinical treatments.
PhD Position: Modeling Foot Growth and Deformities in Children with Cerebral Palsy, Delft University, Netherlands
Key Information at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Computational Biomechanics, Biomedical Engineering, Medical Image Analysis |
| Location | Delft, Netherlands (Department of Biomechanical Engineering, TU Delft) |
| Employment Type | Full-time (36–40 hours per week), 4-year contract |
| Salary Range | €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month (plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus) |
| Application Deadline | July 27, 2026 |
Job Description
As a PhD candidate, you will be part of a multidisciplinary research consortium. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Developing statistical shape models and finite element models of the growing foot.
- Investigating normal bone development and understanding how growth is altered in children with cerebral palsy.
- Collaborating closely with clinical researchers, clinicians, and a postdoctoral researcher at Amsterdam UMC who is developing parallel musculoskeletal models.
- Participating in academic growth opportunities such as mentoring BSc/MSc students, attending conferences, contributing to workshops, and teaching.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required Criteria:
- An MSc degree in Biomechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline by the start date of the position (September 2026).
- Strong experience in scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
- Practical experience in finite element analysis (FEA).
- Experience in medical image analysis and data processing.
- Basic knowledge of or experience with AI-driven models.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (meeting the TU Delft Graduate School proficiency requirements).
Preferred (Nice-to-Have) Criteria:
- Basic knowledge or experience in musculoskeletal modeling.
- A self-motivated, proactive, and curiosity-driven working attitude.
- Capability to thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment.
- Verbal and written communication skills in Dutch.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official TU Delft career portal using the application button. Applications sent via email or post will not be processed.
Required Application Documents:
- Motivation Letter and a comprehensive CV.
- An Abstract of your MSc thesis.
- Note: If selected for an interview, you will be required to provide contact information for up to three professional references.
To apply or view the original listing, visit the TU Delft Job Board. For specific inquiries regarding the vacancy, you can contact the supervisor, Nazli Tümer, directly via email.
Last Date to Apply
The closing date for submissions is July 27, 2026.
