PostDoc position in Miniaturized Flexure Joints for Robotic Surgery (FlexMi) at the University of Twente

The Surgical Robotics Lab and the Precision Engineering Laboratory of the University of Twente have a vacancy for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow within the research area of flexure-based design of miniaturized tools for applications in minimally invasive surgery (FlexMi)

The FlexMi project aims to use a model-based design methodology to develop a new class of flexure-based robotic devices that work in tandem with remote magnetic actuation systems to broaden the scope of minimally invasive surgery. The focus of the project is on achieving reliable actuation response over a large range of motion through millimetre-scale flexure-based components. We target a model-based design methodology for developing small-scale flexure-based components. Magnetic actuation will be used for instantaneous and accurate mechanical load transfer without the needs for cables or wires. The remote sensing capabilities of flexures and magnetic components will be utilized for controlled system response. FlexMi works towards magnetic and flexure-based smart robots to support surgeons to reach difficult-to-access areas within the human body.

Your tasks

• Develop a novel model-based design approach for large stroke, high load miniaturized flexures
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• Integrate existing remote actuation and sensing principles within miniaturized design
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• Demonstrate a functioning proof of concept prototype within a representative surgical workspace

The successful applicant has (or will shortly) a PhD in mechanical engineering, biomechanical engineering, applied physics or in a closely related discipline. He or she possesses excellent skills and practical experience in one or more of the following research areas: mechanical design, non-linear mechanical modelling, system dynamics and mechatronics. Experience at the intersection of one or more of these areas is desirable. Hands-on experience with designing and executing experience is preferred. Fluency in English is required.

We offer a challenging fulltime position for two years in an inspiring multidisciplinary and international environment. Gross salary between € 3.408,- and € 4.474,- per month depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, the University of Twente provides excellent facilities for professional and personal development, a holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus, and a lively and green campus with many facilities for sports and other extracurricular activities. Your main responsibility will be to carry out research, but you will be given the opportunity to acquire some teaching experience and supervise students in Master and Bachelor projects as well.

Your application - through the “Apply now” button below - should include the following documents:

• A cover letter (in English) which explains your interest in the position and your qualifications for it;
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• A curriculum vitae which also includes a list of publications
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• The name and e-mail address/telephone number of two references;
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• A copy of your PhD-thesis and two of your related scientific papers.

The application deadline is January 31, 2022.

Questions regarding this position can be directed to Dr.ir. Jan de Jong, PDEng [email protected] and Dr. Venkat Kalpathy Venkiteswaran [email protected] .

The FlexMi project is a collaboration between the Precision Engineering Laboratory and Surgical Robotics Lab of the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) at the University of Twente. The Precision Engineering Laboratory has an excellent track record of applied research in flexure mechanisms, working with companies like ASML, DEMCON. The Surgical Robotics Lab has a dynamic research agenda, and consisting of a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, clinicians, and industrial collaborators, focused on developing innovative solutions for a broad range of clinically-relevant challenges. The FlexMi project will be at the intersection of the research themes of both groups, and the successful candidate will be able to work to strengthen the collaboration between the two research groups.

The University of Twente stands for life sciences and technology, with a focus on High tech and Human touch. The University of Twente is the only campus university in the Netherlands; divided over six faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. The University of Twente has a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out pioneering research. The ET faculty is one of the six faculties of the University of Twente. ET combines Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. The faculty has approximately 1800 bachelor and master students, 400 employees and 150 PhD candidates. The departments of the faculty cooperatively conduct the educational programmes and participate in interdisciplinary research projects, programmes and with various research institutes.

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering with a view to enabling society and industry to innovate and create value using sound, efficient and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading centre for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to some 1,800 Bachelor's and Master's students, 400 employees and 150 PhD candidates and offers three degree programmes: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. Our educational and research programme are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centra and Digital Society Institute.

University of Twente (UT)

University of Twente (UT) has entered the new decade with an ambitious, new vision, mission and strategy. As ‘the ultimate people-first university of technology' we are rapidly expanding on our High Tech Human Touch philosophy and the unique role it affords us in society.

Everything we do is aimed at maximum impact on people, society and connections through the sustainable utilisation of science and technology. We want to contribute to the development of a fair, digital and sustainable society through our open, inclusive and entrepreneurial attitude. This attitude permeates everything we do and is present in every one of UT's departments and faculties. Building on our rich legacy in merging technical and social sciences, we focus on five distinguishing research domains: Improving healthcare by personalised technologies; Creating intelligent manufacturing systems; Shaping our world with smart materials; Engineering our digital society; and Engineering for a resilient world.

As an employer, University of Twente offers jobs that matter. We equip you as a staff member to shape new opportunities both for yourself and for our society. With us, you will be part of a leading tech university that is changing our world for the better. We offer an open, inclusive and entrepreneurial climate, in which we encourage you to make healthy choices, for example, with our flexible, customisable conditions.