PhD Position on Cartilage Microtissues, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands

Summary

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position within the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The project focuses on developing an advanced in silico framework to simulate the growth and remodeling dynamics, matrix composition, and architecture of cartilage microtissues under mechanical and geometric constraints, working at the interface of computational biomechanics and tissue engineering.

PhD Position on Computational Growth and Remodeling of Cartilage Microtissues

Designation

PhD Candidate (Doctoral Researcher)

Key Information Table

Research Area

• Biomedical Engineering & Biomechanics
• Computational Mechanobiology & Finite Element Modeling (FEM)
• Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopaedic & Cartilage Matrix Remodeling

Location

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)

Eindhoven, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands (Brainport Region)

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Academic Background: An MSc degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related engineering/scientific discipline.
• Technical Skills:
  • Demonstrated experience with finite element modeling (FEM) is mandatory.
  • Strong affinity for theoretical mechanics and applied mathematics.
  • Preferred: Experience with homogenized constrained-mixture models, other tissue growth models, or mechanical characterization of biological materials.
• Soft Skills & Mindset:
  • Self-motivated, creative, and proactive approach to research.
  • Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and collaborative environments.
  • Excellent communication skills with complete fluency in spoken and written English.

Scholarship / Position Description

• Project Scope: Functional regeneration of articular cartilage remains a significant challenge. This project aims to unlock the potential of microtissue-based tissue engineering by creating homogenized constrained-mixture computational models (building on finite element frameworks) to investigate how confining environments alter cartilage matrix remodeling and organization.
• Supervision: The candidate will be jointly embedded in the Orthopaedic Biomechanics (OPB) group and the Modeling in Mechanobiology (MMB) group under the supervision of Dr. Sebastien Callens, Prof. Keita Ito, and Dr. Sandra Loerakker.
• Responsibilities:
  • Develop and adapt in silico finite element models for cartilage growth and remodeling.
  • Collaborate closely with experimental researchers for model calibration and validation.
  • Spend 10%–15% of annual time on educational tasks (teaching and student supervision).
  • Present findings at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals to complete a doctoral dissertation.

How to Apply

1. Online Portal: Submit your application directly through the TU/e Varbi Recruitment System. (Applications sent via email or postal mail will not be processed).
2. Required Documents:
   • Cover Letter: Highlighting your motivation and suitability for the specific research topic.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a list of publications (if any) and contact details of at least two academic references.
   • Transcripts: Official copy of your MSc course grades.
3. Contact for Inquiries: Dr. Sebastien Callens (s.j.p.callens@tue.nl).

Last Date for Apply

September 16, 2026 (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled).

Link