Spain: PhD Positions in Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Technical University of Catalonia

Two PhD positions are available in the Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue
Engineering Research Group of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya
(Barcelona, Spain). The research group has an extensive experience in the
development of novel biomaterials and computer simulations to better understand
the interaction between surfaces, cell biology and mechanical stimuli.

The selected candidates will integrate the research line on Biomechanics and
Mechanobiology to work on the development of new numerical tools for the design
of biomaterials for bone tissue engineering. The advertised positions will start
mid-September 2007 and be funded for 4 years.

Requirements
The candidates
should have a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or
Physics. Previous knowledge on finite element analysis and programming skills
are highly advantageous. Good skills in both spoken and written English are
expected; knowledge of Spanish is beneficial. Candidates should be able to work
both independently and as a member of a team.

Description
PhD 1: Simulation of bone
mechanoregulation of rapid prototyped scaffold
The aim of the project is
to design and construct scaffolds for bone tissue engineering using rapid
prototyping techniques (Bioplotter). Geometrical and mechanical design
considerations will be accounted for and a micro finite element model of the
scaffold will be developed and validated against in vitro experiments. A dynamic
simulation will be setup to model cell adhesion, proliferation and
differentiation over time. The extracellular matrix formation will be modelled
and validated by comparison with in vitro experiments.

PhD 2: Development of a multiscale analysis for tissue
engineering
The aim of the project is to develop computational tools at
multiscale levels of the mechanical stimuli experience in tissues under
physiological conditions with applications to tissue engineering. The candidate
will develop a multiscale analysis with tissues modelled using a
microporoleastic approach. A multiscale homogenization approach will be used in
a parallel computing environment. This new approach should bring a better
understanding of the real mechanical stimuli sensed by the cells when these are
stimulated in vitro or in vivo.

Application

For more questions or to apply, contact Dr. Damien Lacroix at damien.lacroix[
at ]upc.edu

Technical University of Catalonia,
Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering
Research Group,
Diagonal 647, Barcelona,
ES-08028 Spain

Tel: +34 934010711

Deadline: August 15, 2007

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