PhD Position in Hydrocephalus Research

This highly interdisciplinary research project builds on previous and ongoing work carried out in close collaboration with neurosurgeons from the University Hospital Zurich, biomedical engineers and veterinarians from the University of Zurich, and international collaborators. We aim to develop a profound knowledge base for hydrocephalus and a novel treatment for hydrocephalus patients.

Hydrocephalus is a severe and common condition that occurs in many different forms from childhood to old age. The disease presents with an enlargement of the brain ventricles, presumably due to a mismatch of secretion and resorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Patients exhibit symptoms such as mental disorders, gait disturbance, and incontinence. It is usually treated by lifelong therapy with shunts that drain CSF from the brain ventricles into the abdomen. This technology is seventy years old, and the disease is still not well understood.

We aim to develop a hydrocephalus ovine model mimicking the functional characteristics of CSF disorders.

The PhD research topic includes developing acute and chronic pathologic ovine models and developing a miniaturized actuation device for long-term in vivo implantation as well as the quantification of hydrocephalus onset and neurologic deficits by assessing magnetic resonance or computer tomography imaging. Furthermore data analysis, modeling, and application using the existing testbench and artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision.

You will have:

• a Master of Science degree from a recognized university (or close to completion) in electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, or physics
• a passion for practical and theoretical work following a systematic and sound approach in a medical application
• strong interest in working in a highly interdisciplinary environment and pursuing animal trials
• a background in signal and data processing, modeling, applied artificial intelligence, and machine learning
• curiosity, open-mindedness, and good communication skills
• proficient oral and written English skills

We are a highly motivated research group, offering an excellent research infrastructure and environment, as well as a competitive salary and benefits.