Two PhD positions at JWI&BSRT Charite Berlin: Multiscale modeling of MMTs

The research laboratory for Quantitative Acoustic Microscopy and High
frequency spectroscopy of the Julius Wolff Institute &
Berlin-Brandenburg Graduate School for Regenerative Therapies, Campus
Virchow-Klinikum - Prof. Dr. Kay Raum – is opening the two Doctoral
Researcher (PhD) positions immediately.

We are looking for two motivated graduate students with excellent
academic performance and interest in conducting interdisciplinary
research.

Position I
--------------

Position ID: DM.138.11

Project description

This position will be opened in frame of the DFG priority program
SPP1420 „Biomimetic Materials Research: Functionality by Hierarchical
Structuring of Materials“ (http://spp1420.mpikg.mpg.de/) within the project
„Multiscale structure-functional modeling of musculoskeletal mineralized tissues“
The main research topic will be multimodal and multiscale experimental
assessment of musculoskeletal tissues using, e.g. synchrotron radiation
µCT, acoustic and optical microscopy and spectroscopy. These data will
be jointly assessed at the host institute and the laboratory of several
international collaboration partners. The data serve as input for
advanced finite element models and theoretical and numerical
homogenization techniques. The numerical aspects of this project will be
predominantly covered by the partner institutions.
The objectives of this project are to unravel the functional adaptation
mechanisms of mineralized musculoskeletal tissue and to apply these
construction rules for the development of hierarchically structured
tissue compounds with improved mechanical functionality.

Required qualifications:
- very good MSc degree in engineering or physics
- basic theoretical background in mechanics of solids
- enthusiasm for experimental work
- good data analysis skills including programming
- excellent communication writing skills (in English)

The ideal candidate has
- additional background in acoustics, biomechanics
- at least minimal experience with laboratory work
- basic knowledge of homogenization theory and techniques
- strong programming expertise
- the ability to communicate his/her results in a scientific manner

Position II
---------------

Position ID: DM.141.11

Project description

The main research topic will be multimodal and multiscale modeling of
musculoskeletal tissues using the finite element method. In particular,
this project aims at incorporation of experimental data, e.g. µCT,
acoustic and optical microscopy and spectroscopy, as well as other
modalities into advanced finite element models via theoretical and
numerical homogenization techniques.
The objectives of this project are (i) to unravel the functional
adaptation process by better understanding the structure-function
relationship in intact musculoskeletal tissues and (ii) to use this
knowledge to investigate altered conditions e.g. like osteotomies with
fixations and implants. Beyond this streamline the candidate will be
offered to follow own research ideas and define individualized
sub-topics of interest by slightly deviating in engineering or
biological directions within the scope of regenerative medicine.

Required qualifications:
- very good MSc degree in engineering or physics
- theoretical background in mechanics of solids
- knowledge of the finite element method with hands-on experience
- good programming skills
- excellent communication skills (English)

The ideal candidate has
- additional background in biomechanics, biomedical engineering or bioinformatics
- at least minimal experience with laboratory work
- basic knowledge of homogenization theory and techniques
- extended knowledge of numerical methods
- advanced experience with commercial finite element software (preferably with Abaqus or Comsol)
- strong programming expertise, multiple languages
- the ability to communicate his/her results in a scientific manner

For both Positions
---------------------------

The successful applicants will work in an international and
interdisciplinary community of scientists, which will act as a
motivating environment and open the possibility for fruitful
collaborations. Furthermore, they will be able to take advantage of the
courses given at the DFG international graduate school
"Berlin-Brandenburg Graduate School for Regenerative Therapies" (BSRT)
within fields of biomechanics, mechanobiology, biomaterials and biology.
This is therefore an excellent opportunity for motivated young
researchers who would like to extend their knowledge in these areas of
science and aiming to develop a scientific career.

Both positions will be opened for two years, performance based extension is possible.

Salary will be 50% TV-L 13.

The official language of our Institute is English. At least basic level German knowledge is a plus, however not prerequisite.
In line with the university's policy of equal opportunities,
applications from qualified women are particularly encouraged.
Handicapped applicants will be preferred in case of the same
qualification.

The applications should include a motivation letter, detailed CV,
technical reference and publication list (if applicable). The position
ID must be mentioned. The applications should be sent until September
15, 2011 to:

Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin,
Julius Wolff Institute & Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies,
z.Hd. Prof. Kay Raum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin.
email: kay.raum@charite.de

 For further information please contact me (Peter Varga): peter.varga@charite.de