PhD Position: Computer Simulation of Knee Arthroplasty

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

One doctoral position is available at the Institute for Biomechanics (Department of Health Sciences and Technology). The Institute for Biomechanics is a multidisciplinary research unit dedicated to the biomechanical investigation of the human body. We investigate the mechanics and material properties of the musculoskeletal system, as well as movement control, from a macroscopic (body/organ) scale to a microscopic (cell) scale.

The position is available from May 1, 2026, but a later starting date could be considered.

The position is funded for four years.

Project background

The available position is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. This collaborative project (EPF Lausanne, University of Lausanne, ETH Zurich) aims to improve the performance of joint arthroplasty through the use of novel materials and focused design to leverage their unique properties, with the knee as the example case. You will gain the necessary interdisciplinary skills demanded by industry and academia to deliver timely and cost-effective solutions to one of the most challenging problems in healthcare.

Job description

You will be responsible for conducting your own independent research. The focus of this research sub-project is to develop and apply advanced, patient-specific models of the knee joint fo design iteration and optimisation.

Specific duties:

• Develop and apply a finite element model of a knee arthroplasty and surrounding natural tissues
• Apply patient-specific boundary conditions from musculoskeletal simulations performed by a collaborating post-doc in the institute
• Perform parametric variation of the design to explore the influence of geometry and material specification on implant and peri-implant stresses and strains
• Define and supervise BSc and MSc projects of biomedical engineering students, within the research infrastructure of the ETH Zurich
• Disseminate research results in peer-reviewed journal articles and at international conferences

Profile

Essential experience, skills and characteristics:

• A master’s degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering or related relevant field
• A demonstrated and substantial experience with computational simulation methods, i.e. finite element analysis
• English proficiency
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work independently, with flexibility, humour and critical thinking

Desirable criteria:

• Experience with medical image analysis
• Experience with biomaterials / tissue mechanics / additive manufacturing methods
• German language skills
• Peer-reviewed scientific publication(s)

Workplace

We offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• You can expect numerous benefits , such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ , childcare and attractive pension benefits

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Covering letter with statement of motivation
• Your CV
• A copy of or link to your MSc thesis
• Names and contact details of two references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Institute for Biomechanics can be found on our website . For further information, please contact Prof. Stephen Ferguson, or email E-Mail schreiben (no application documents).

Apply online now

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