New-generation neuromusculoskeletal computational modelling for digital patient

Location: Streatham Campus, Exeter

The University of Exeter’s Department of Engineering is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD studentship. The studentship can commence in September 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter. For eligible students the studentship will cover Home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £18,622 for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. The student would be based in the Department of Engineering in the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

Project description:

Globally, approximately 20-33% of the population suffers from painful musculoskeletal disorders. While recent advancements in rehabilitation devices and research show promise in predicting, understanding, and restoring human function, there is a need for further investigation to fully comprehend the interaction between humans and these devices. Neuromusculoskeletal computational modelling has the potential to serve as a valuable tool for informing the design of rehabilitation devices and understanding the human-device interaction. By combing the neural control techniques and musculoskeletal models, the neuromusculoskeletal modelling can capture the features and functionalities of the motor control system to mimic human neuromechanical behaviour. The aims of this project are to develop an advanced neuromusculoskeletal computational modelling that combines neural control techniques and musculoskeletal models, and based on the neuromusculoskeletal modelling, to develop a digital patient model that can predict the patient’s locomotion and human function based on the sensor data collected from wearable devices.

The main innovation of the neuromusculoskeletal modelling and digital patient system is that they can be used not only in laboratory settings but also in out-of-the-lab conditions, which will be used in designing and developing novel rehabilitation devices, such as orthotics, prosthetics and exoskeleton. The neuromusculoskeletal modelling will also be used to analyse the muscle function and dysfunction during human movements and sport exercise, and to understand the mechanisms and identify the risk of lower limb injuries.

The PhD candidate will be part of a team of academic researchers working in the fields of numerical modelling and additive manufacturing. Moreover, the project will offer the opportunity to interact with industrial partners as well as to travel for conferences and research stays with international academic collaborators. Candidates are expected to have a strong background in mechanics, numerical modelling, additive manufacturing as well as some coding experience.

The award:

This award provides annual funding to cover Home tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. For students who pay Home tuition fees the award will cover the tuition fees in full, plus at least £18,622 per year tax-free stipend. Students who pay international tuition fees are eligible to apply, but should note that the award will only provide payment for part of the international tuition fee and no stipend.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit for 3.5 years of full-time study to commence on 25 September 2023.

About the University of Exeter：

The University of Exeter combines world class research with excellent student satisfaction. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities. Formed in 1955, the University has over 20,000 students from more than 130 different countries. Its success is built on a strong partnership with its students and a clear focus on high performance. Recent breakthroughs to come out of Exeter's research include the identification and treatment of new forms of diabetes and the creation of the world's most transparent, lightweight, and flexible conductor of electricity.

We are one of the very few universities to be both a member of the Russell Group and have a Gold award from the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), evidence of our established international reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. Our success is built on a strong partnership with our students and a clear focus on high performance.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science or technology. 

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the required level as per our guidance at https://www.exeter.ac.uk/pg-research/apply/english/.

For further information on the project, please contact Dr Xijin Hua, e-mail: [Email Address Removed].

The closing date for applications is midnight on Wednesday 9th August 2023. Interviews will be held virtually / on the University of Exeter Streatham in the week commencing TBC

For more information or to apply please click here - Award details | Funding and scholarships for students | University of Exeter