Restoring function in lower limb amputees is currently restricted by limitations in prosthetics designs. The NHS restriction on ‘microprocessor-controlled [prosthetic] knees’ was lifted in 2018, but response of these devices being slower than passive designs remains a limitation. Fast and accurate detection of events during movement is essential to achieve effective powered lower-limb prostheses and exoskeletons.
This project will investigate electrophysiological signalling and dynamics of healthy humans as a full system, using human, computational and experimental (1–4) models of the human knee, as appropriate, to fully explore its behaviour. This information will be analysed to understand how the human knee is controlled. From this control strategies for powered knee prosthesis will be proposed and used to design a bionic leg.
Please contact me directly if you are interested in this project ([Email Address Removed]).
https://www.ellison.no/
About Movement Science and Engineering at York
Movement Science and Engineering is a subgroup of Healthcare Engineering at UoY. We currently consist of 10 academics focused on research into movement science and restoration of movement to patients. Research topics cover a diverse range of skills, from development of MEMS sensors for study of proteins, to AI based signal analysis for automated assessment of neuro and MSK degenerative conditions, and human machine interactions with assistive robotics.
About UoY
The University of York takes immense pride in its placement in the top ten UK universities in the REF, affirming our commitment to research excellence with social impact. As a University for the Public Good, we strive to establish strong partnerships and share knowledge to create local and global benefits. The overarching ambition of this project and its potential impact on Healthcare Engineering align perfectly with our principles of inclusion, internationalism, and collaboration.
Entry requirements:
Candidates should have (or expect to obtain) a minimum of a UK upper second-class honours degree (2.1) or equivalent in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. Experience in biomechanics or computer science will also be considered, however you must show an understanding of fundamental principles of experimental robotics (mechanics, dynamics and control, signal processing etc). A candidate with a master’s degree (or expected to graduate) is also desired for this studentship, particularly with merit grades in Mechanical Eng, Electronics, and related disciplines.
How to apply:
Applicants must apply via the University’s online application system at https://www.york.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/. Please read the application guidance first so that you understand the various steps in the application process. To apply, please select the PhD in Electronic Engineering for September 2024 entry. Please specify in your PhD application that you would like to be considered for this studentship.