PhD Position in Video-Based Hand Motion Tracking for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Develop cutting-edge video-based tools to monitor hand function in rheumatoid arthritis patients for real-world clinical impact.
Best for:Best for engineering graduates with expertise in mechanical modeling, computer programming, and human movement data collection, seeking a multidisciplinary PhD in clinical biomechanics and digital health.
Overview
This PhD position at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) focuses on advancing video-based hand motion tracking to assess rheumatoid arthritis (RA) flare-ups in home environments. The project aims to create computational models and pose estimation algorithms to quantify hand function changes due to daily stressors and treatments. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary consortium involving technical universities, hospitals, companies, and patient organizations, ensuring real-world applicability and open-science dissemination. The role combines research with mentoring opportunities, international collaboration, and professional development in a dynamic biomechanical engineering environment.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply computational models and video-based tools to capture and analyze hand movement and function in real-world home environments.
- Investigate the causes and timing of rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups using collected data and developed algorithms.
- Contribute to open-source data repositories and open-science initiatives aligned with TU Delft’s commitment.
- Collaborate with a large consortium including technical universities, hospitals, companies, and patient organizations.
- Mentor and teach BSc/MSc students, present research at international conferences, and participate in workshops and training programs abroad.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to doctoral education courses.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science (MSc) in engineering or a related discipline by the start date of the position
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for research, teaching, and publication
Instruction: English
- Experience with mechanical modeling and simulation
- Proficiency in computer programming/scripting (e.g., C++, Python, MATLAB)
- Experience collecting human experimental data (movement, video, or similar)
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- No specific nationality restrictions mentioned
- No residency or age limits specified
- No prior experience caps mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Applicants must submit a motivation letter, CV, abstract of their MSc thesis, and a copy of their university transcripts via the TU Delft application portal. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide contact details for three references. An optional writing sample may also be submitted.
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Abstract of MSc thesis
- University transcripts
- Optional: Writing sample of an article, thesis, or relevant report
Contact
Ajay Seth & Winfred Mugge· Supervisors
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