The Project
Applications are invited for an 8-month fixed term postdoctoral research position in the EPSRC funded project “SenseBack: Enabling Technologies for Sensory Feedback in Next-Generation Assistive Devices”.
The overall aim of the project is to develop technologies that will enable the next generation of assistive devices to provide natural-like control through enhanced sensory feedback. Our long-term vision is for artificial arms to provide the user with a sense of feedback that recreates – as closely as possible – the natural feedback associated with a real arm/hand. To enable this level of feedback, we must meet two clear objectives: to generate artificial signals that mimic those of the natural arm and hand, and to provide a means of delivering those signals to the nervous system of a prosthesis user.
Within this project, the Essex team leads the development of computational models of the interaction between the microelectrode implants and the target peripheral neural tissue. The models will not only enhance our understanding of electrode/tissue interactions, but will also help determine design parameters for future bespoke neural implants.
Further information about the project can be found at:
http://csee.essex.ac.uk/staff/sepulveda/SenseBack/http://www.senseback.com/The Role and Duties
The successful applicant will work alongside a PhD student dedicated to this project the Essex BCI+NE Group, the UK’s largest research group in brain interfaces, and will have access to advanced computational facilities, including a cluster dedicated to neural engineering research. You will also join other outstanding SenseBack researchers at the other project member institutions: Newcastle University, Imperial College, and the Universities of Southampton, Leeds, and Keele.
The main duties of the role will include producing, testing, and analysing novel computational models of electrode-neuron interactions; producing journal and conference papers; presenting work at conferences and other research dissemination events and liaising and collaborating with other project members, including occasionally travelling to other project sites. The post holder will also be expected to produce and maintain the necessary software tools used in and/ or developed for this project.
Qualifications and Skills required
The successful candidate will have a PhD in Physics (or be close to completion) or in Electrical, Electronic, or Biomedical Engineering or equivalent. They will have significant experience in at least one of the following: modelling neural tissue, electromagnetic systems, modelling of electromechanical systems, neural engineering, electrical/electronic implants, bioelectronics, electrophysiology, biomedical signals and systems. Applicants are also expected to have a strong publication record as first authors, preferably including publications in 1st quartile journals in relevant areas. Good programming skills in at least one of the following: Python, Matlab, FeNics, Neuron, Genesys, Abaqus is essential. Previous experience with Finite Element/ Difference Models is desirable.
This is expected to start as soon as possible after interviews have taken place.
At the University of Essex internationalism is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally-oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries and a university where you can find the world in one place.
Please see our website for a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please telephone the Resourcing Team (01206 874693/873521).
Closing: 19 July 2007
Interview date: 27 July 2007
