PhD Student (f/m/d) (Focus: neuromuscular control)

 

They offer a funded researcher position for 3.5 years in our larger project “Fusion of neuromechanical modeling and wearable sensor data to enhance prediction of human movement intention in real-time robotic assistance”. In this specific project, you will work on combining neuromechanical modeling, computational motor control, and machine learning to understand and predict human movement intention.

 

As a PhD student on the team, you will

▪ Simulate human movements with a focus on upper-limb reaching. 

▪ Work on bioinspired control approaches.

▪ Analyze experimental data using physical measurements to assess the validity of your modeling approaches. 

 

Additionally, you will have opportunities to:

▪ Publish your research in high-impact journals.

▪ Present your findings at international conferences

▪ Improve your supervision skills by co-supervising B.Sc. and M.Sc. students

▪ Gain teaching experience by assisting in relevant courses

 

The NeuMoSens Group is an interdisciplinary research group led by Dr. Isabell Wochner in the Research Field of Biomechanics and Biorobotics at the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research (HIH) at the University of Tübingen. The project is closely connected to the Cyber Valley, Europe’s leading center for excellence in AI and modern robotics and the Center for Bionic Intelligence Tübingen Stuttgart. Their overarching goal is to understand and predict human movement intention for real-time robotic assistance using wearable sensors and neuromechanical modelling.

 

This research aims to advance assistive technology for individuals with motor impairments, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

 

 

Job Requirements

They are looking for applicants who have:

▪ A strong motivation to work in an interdisciplinary research project.

▪ A background in computer science, simulation engineering, biomedical engineering, or related fields.

▪ A Masters (or equivalent) degree from a recognised university. Near completion can be considered.

▪ A curious and independent mindset with a critical approach to research.

▪ Proficiency in Python, C++, or similar programming languages.

▪ Excellent academic performance and analytical skills.

▪ Strong English communication skills.

 

Candidates who have experience in any of the following attributes are specifically encouraged to apply:

▪ Neuromusculoskeletal simulations

▪ Model predictive control

▪ Reinforcement learning

▪ Signal processing

 

 

Interested?

Please contact Isabell Wochner (isabell.wochner@uni-tuebingen.de). The position will remain open until filled. The starting data is flexible, but June 2025 is preferable.

Applications sent before March 5th 2025 will be prioritized. Please send a cover letter, CV, and transcript of records, along with contact details of up to two researchers who would be willing to write a letter of reference (we will contact them directly).