"PhD Position Development of Biodegradable Implants"

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to contribute to the research and development of implants for a vertebral fixation system that integrates biodegradable metals, bioactive ceramics, and peptide-functionalized coating using multi-material 3D printing. This interdisciplinary project aims to overcome the limitations of current treatments for vertebral fractures and advance the field of regenerative spinal implants.

Responsibilities:

• Design and fabricate scaffolds using direct ink writing, incorporating biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials.
• Develop and apply bioactive peptide coatings to stimulate osteointegration.
• Analyze material degradation and ion release profiles to ensure synchronized scaffold degradation with bone healing.
• Perform mechanical and in vitro testing.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams from TU Delft and Amber Implant, including biomechanical and biomedical scientists and engineers, and clinical experts.
• Prepare publications and conference presentations, and contribute to the preclinical validation package.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Must meet the entry requirements for PhD enrollment, holding a second-level Master's Degree (120 ECTS + 180 ECTS from a bachelor degree) or a single-cycle degree (minimum 300 ECTS), or a comparable university degree in biomechanical engineering, mechanical engineering, material science, or related fields.
• Must not have a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.
• Must be proficient in the English language.
• Must be available for full-time enrollment in the PhD program at TU Delft.
• Must demonstrate a strong background in biomechanics, materials science, or bone biology.
• Must have experience in computational modeling, particularly with Finite Element Method (FEM), and be familiar with software such as ABAQUS.
• Must have high-level programming skills, particularly in Python, for model development and process automation.
• Should have expertise in 3D printing technologies, especially related to bio-based materials, as well as characterization techniques such as imaging and mechanical testing.
• Should have experience or knowledge of material design and topological optimization.

What the Employer Offers:

• A 4-year period of employment, initially as a 1.5-year contract with a go/no go progress assessment, followed by an additional 2.5-year contract if performance requirements are met.
• Salary ranging from €3059 to €3881 per month, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Enrollment in the TU Delft Graduate School, providing an inspiring research environment with excellent supervisors and a Doctoral Education Programme.
• Customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, monthly work costs contribution, and flexible work schedules.
• Support for relocation to the Netherlands, including events and a Dual Career Programme.