"PhD position Maximizing human muscle power output for sports and rehabilitation"

Job Description

This project investigates how human muscles can generate maximal mechanical power output and how this knowledge can be applied to (re)design the drivetrain of bicycles and handcycles. While most innovations focus on materials —e.g. making equipment lighter or stiffer— it remains largely unknown how to design devices that fully exploit the potential of the human musculoskeletal system. In this project we will use the human musculoskeletal system as starting point in redesigning the drivetrain of bicycles and handcycles.

As a PhD candidate, you will use musculoskeletal modeling and experimental testing to explore how muscles and limbs should move to deliver maximal power output. You will translate insights gained by musculoskeletal simulation and optimization into new equipment, by redesigning chainring shapes and pedal or handle trajectories [ that enhance power output]. You will test prototype designs with elite cyclists and handcycle users to evaluate improvements in performance. During your PhD, your research will be at the intersection of biomechanics, muscle physiology, computational modeling and product design. You will be employed in the Section of Biomechanics and will be collaborating with experts in biomechanics, sports and rehabilitation. You will be using the department’s state-of-the-art laboratories.

Requirements

• You hold a Master’s degree in Human Movement Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanical Engineering, or a related field, and you are eager to work in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• You have a good understanding of muscle and exercise physiology and (bio)mechanics.
• You have experience with standard measurements and analyses in human movement science (e.g., EMG, calorimetry, kinematics, kinetics, and inverse dynamics analyses).
• You have solid programming skills, preferably in MATLAB and/or Python.
• You have a strong affinity for both musculoskeletal modeling and experimental research.
• You have good understanding of optimal control techniques.
• You have excellent verbal and written English language skills.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

Conditions of Employment

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

A challenging position in a socially involved organization. The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel and amounts € 3.059,- per month during the first year and increases to €3.881,- per month during the fourth year, based on a full-time employment. The job profile is based on the university job ranking system and is vacant for 1 FTE.

The appointment will initially be for 1 year. After a satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, the contract will be extended to a duration of a total of 4 years.

Additionally, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers excellent fringe benefits and various schemes and regulations to promote a good work/life balance, such as:

• a maximum of 41 days of annual leave based on full-time employment,
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• Solid pension scheme (ABP)
• Opportunities for further professional development (e.g., by taking additional courses, participating in workshops, seminars and conferences).
• Working in a friendly and exciting environment

Additional Information

Are you interested in this position? Please apply via the application button and upload a single PDF that includes (1) a short (motivation) letter (not longer than 1 page), (2) your curriculum vitae (which lists two references that we can contact). Materials must be submitted by 09/12/2025.

Interviews will take place on 15 and 16 December 2025.

If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, you may contact: Dr. Dinant Kistemaker: da.kistemaker@vu.nl

Applications received by e-mail will not be considered. Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.