PhD position on Interactive Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Image-guided Interventions

Job description

Performing accurate and effective minimally invasive interventions requires a comprehensive view on the anatomy as well as the interventional instruments used. MRI can in principle provide such information, however current technologies do not allow for effective visualization and control from within the scanner room. This limits the efficiency and effectiveness of MR-guided interventions.

The aim of this project “MR-VISION” is to enhance the workflow during MR-guided interventions by providing real-time and comprehensive procedural feedback. The project will involve developing new MRI technologies involving advanced visualization tools based on extended reality as well as new MRI methodologies to track both instruments as well as the anatomy in 3D.

This PhD project will focus on designing and integrating new technologies and methods from the domains of physics, electrical engineering as well as computer sciences to serve the next generation of interventional MRI systems. The project will build on the MRI facilities available at the TechMed and will involve clinical tests in collaboration with interventional teams from various clinics. An important aspect in this project is therefore to work across the borderlines of disciplines, e.g. in collaboration with both technology as well as application-oriented groups.

Your profile

• You are an enthusiastic and highly motivated researcher with an interest in multi-disciplinary research in medical imaging.
• You have, or will shortly, acquire a master degree in the field of biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, computer science or equivalent field.
• You have a creative mindset and excellent analytical and communication skills.
• You have a good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.
• You are proficient in English.
• You are proficient with programming (Matlab, Python, C++, or similar).
• Background knowledge in MR physics is considered a plus.

Our offer

• A full-time position for four years, with a qualifier during the first year.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2770,-(first year) to €3539 ,- (fourth year).
• Excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.

Information and application

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before June 9, and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position.
• A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications and references.
• An IELTS-test, Internet TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT), or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE). Applicants with a non-Dutch qualification and who have not had secondary and tertiary education in English can only be admitted with an IELTS-test showing a total band score of at least 6.5, internet. TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT) showing a score of at least 90, or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE).

About the department

The TechMed Centre at the University of Twente is a leading research center focusing on cutting-edge, technology-driven innovations in medicine and health with a direct impact on healthcare. At MD&I, we focus on research and development of cutting-edge technologies for magnetic sensing and imaging. Our multidisciplinary team works on research that pushes the boundaries of magnetic sensing and imaging in both technical and clinical areas.

About the organisation

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.