PhD Project Researcher (m/f/x) focused on the passive and active mechanical characterization of the myocardium
The Institute of Biomechanics at Graz University of Technology is seeking a highly motivated university project assistant to work under the supervision of Prof. Gerhard A. Holzapfel as part of the ERC Synergy Grant project MECHVIVO. The project is dedicated to the development of an imaging method for the non-invasive examination of tissue microstructure, aiming to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diastolic heart failure in clinical practice. At Graz University of Technology, the porcine and human myocardium (heart muscle) is analyzed mechanically and structurally for this purpose.
Project Focus
The successful candidate will work on the experimental characterization of the passive and active mechanical properties of myocardial tissue. To this end, the candidate will design and implement an extension to an existing test setup for tissue activation. Subsequently, the candidate will strategically test different myocardial tissues and relate the obtained mechanical properties to the physiology and underlying microstructure. Besides, camera systems will be used during mechanical tests for deformation analyses via Digital Image Correlation (DIC).
* Planning, construction, and validation of the setup add-on for uniaxial tests on active tissue properties
* Analysis of specimen deformation via DIC
* Design and conduct of mechanical experiments to characterize the myocardium (porcine and human), as well as uncertainty analysis of the mechanical measurements
* Publication and presentation of results at international conferences
* Preparation of a dissertation
Admission Requirements
* Completed Master’s or Diploma Degree in biomedical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, advanced materials science, or an equivalent field
* High knowledge in the field of (continuum) mechanics
* Very good written and spoken English skills
Desired Qualification
* Laboratory experience in conducting mechanical tests on biological tissues
* Experience with DIC
* Experience in planning and assembling test setups
* High interest in the field of experimental biomechanics
* Desire to work in and with a multidisciplinary and multicultural team
* A structured and independent work style
We Offer
* Interesting area of responsibility
* Collegial and friendly working atmosphere
* Flexible working schedule (e.g. possibility for home office, paid lunch break - depending on working hours)
* International training and teaching opportunities
* Seal of quality for in-house advancement of women
* Family-friendly employer
* Subsidy for public transport
* University’s sports program
* Shopping Discounts
* Workplace Health Management
* Top research infrastructure and access to the latest technologies
* Exciting opportunities for professional and personal development
* Safe and stable working environment
* Company pension funds
We offer an annual gross salary of at least € 52,865.40 for a fulltime position. An overpayment based on qualification and experience is possible.
Graz University of Technology aims to increase the proportion of women, in particular in management and academic staff, and therefore qualified female applicants are explicitly encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to women if applicants are equally qualified.
Graz University of Technology actively promotes diversity and equal opportunities. Applicants are not to be discriminated against in personnel selection procedures on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, religion or ideology, age, sexual orientation (Anti‑discrimination).
People with disabilities and who have the relevant qualifications are expressly invited to apply.
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