PhD Position (100%): Non-Linear Dynamics of Silicon Nitride Orthopaedic Implants in Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. It is renowned for its excellent education, its cutting-edge fundamental research and its efforts to put new knowledge and innovations directly into practice. Three collaborative PhD positions are available at the Institute for Biomechanics (Department of Health Sciences and Technology).

The available position is funded under the EU MSCA Innovative Training Network program "NuSpine". The overall aims of the research program are to develop and characterise new biomaterials (i.e. silicon nitride) for use in spinal implants in order to improve mechanical load-bearing capacity, decrease the rate of implant wear and increase the stability of osseointegration. Through material and design optimisation, we aim to extend the functional longevity of spinal implants in an increasingly active patient population.

The focus of this research sub-project is the non-linear dynamics of spinal implants, with the following objectives: (1) Characterisation of the dynamic response of bulk and processed silicon nitride materials, including response to impact and vibrational loading and the influence of local micro-structure; (2) Evaluation of the changes to base mechanical properties and overall structural damping resulting from gel infiltration and/or tissue ingrowth into macro-porous implants.

We look forward to receiving your online application including a specific statement of motivation for the project, your CV and a copy of your university transcripts as PDFs. Please address your application to Prof. Stephen Ferguson. Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.