PhD Position in Design and Optimisation of Porous Orthopaedic Implants
Develop advanced porous orthopaedic implants using computational design, additive manufacturing, and mechanical testing.
Best for:Best for mechanical or biomedical engineering graduates with a strong interest in additive manufacturing and computational biomechanics.
Overview
The University of Navarra is offering a PhD position within the ADAPT-BONE research project, funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. The successful candidate will focus on the design and mechanical optimisation of porous and lattice orthopaedic implant architectures to improve long-term performance. The research involves an iterative approach combining finite element modelling, laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) manufacturing, and experimental fatigue testing. The project aims to integrate patient-specific mechanical requirements into implant design in collaboration with biomechanics and clinical experts. The researcher will be based at the School of Engineering (Tecnun) in San Sebastián, working within a multidisciplinary team.
What you'll do
- Develop and optimise porous and lattice architectures for orthopaedic implants using computational tools.
- Perform finite element modelling to analyse mechanical behaviour and fatigue under physiological loading.
- Manufacture implant prototypes using laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology.
- Conduct experimental mechanical and fatigue testing to validate computational models.
- Refine implant designs through an iterative design-manufacture-test cycle.
- Collaborate with biomechanics and clinical partners to incorporate patient-specific requirements.
- Participate in international research stays and present findings at scientific conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master Degree or equivalent in Engineering
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; good proficiency required.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in mechanical or biomedical engineering.
- Experience with finite element modelling and computational optimisation.
- Knowledge of additive manufacturing processes.
- Ability to conduct experimental mechanical characterisation.
- Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent at the time of appointment.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/Madrid)
Interested candidates should submit their application via email to the provided contact address. Ensure all relevant academic documents and a CV are included in the submission.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
Contact
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