Doctoral Researcher – Multiscale Modeling of Cartilage Mechanics

Doctoral Researcher – Multiscale Modeling of Cartilage Mechanics

KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

Are you a driven early‑career researcher with a passion for molecular biology, mechanics, and mechanobiology? Join the ERC‑funded OA‑CONNECT project, where we investigate a fundamental question: Why does mechanical loading—normally beneficial for cartilage and chondrocytes—become harmful in osteoarthritis (OA)?

Our research bridges joint mechanics and cellular processes through a multiscale and multidisciplinary approach. We combine in‑vitro, in‑silico, and in‑vivo methodologies to map the complete pathway from mechanical stimulus to cellular response, aiming to understand what changes occur in OA.

In this role, the focus is on developing advanced multiscale models that mechanistically relate mechanical loading at the cartilage surface to the cell’s microenvironment and molecular processes. This includes:

• Utilizing finite element models of cartilage deformation under load, validated using deformation microscopy, high‑field MRI, and clinical MRI to map strain fields.
• Adapting and refining existing gene regulatory network models to align molecular transduction processes in OA chondrocytes with results from in‑vitro bioreactor studies.

These innovations offer an unprecedented view into the degeneration process of cartilage and the underlying mechanobiological mechanisms. They also enable non‑invasive detection of changes in tissue and microstructural properties in both healthy and degenerative cartilage.

Project

As a doctoral researcher in the OA‑CONNECT project, your tasks will include:

• Designing, executing, and analyzing model‑based workflows to study the molecular response of cartilage under mechanical load.
• Integrating advanced imaging techniques, including deformation microscopy, high‑field MRI, clinical MRI, PET‑MRI, and molecular read‑outs.
• Applying inverse finite element modeling (FE modeling) for the multiscale mechanical characterisation of cartilage.
• Integrating in‑vitro, in‑silico, and in‑vivo data into a coherent multiscale mechanobiological framework.
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, biologists, and clinicians.
• Disseminating research results through publications in international journals, conference presentations, and science communication.
• Supervising master’s students and contributing to an open, supportive, and collaborative research culture.

Profile

We are looking for a motivated and collaborative doctoral researcher with the following profile:

• A Master in biomedical, mechanical or bioengineering sciences, or a closely related field, with a strong quantitative background and an affinity for biological processes.
• A solid background in multi‑scale FE and/or gene regulatory network modelling.
• Practical experience in one or more of the following is a plus: in‑vitro bioreactor experiments, molecular analysis techniques, or non‑invasive material testing.
• Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research, preferably at the interface of engineering, biology, and/or clinical research.
• A strong scientific track record, supported by peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences.
• A creative and independent research mindset, with strong problem‑solving skills.
• A team‑oriented attitude and excellent communication skills in English (both written and oral).

Offer

What we offer:

• A full‑time appointment for 1 Year, with the possibility of extension up to max 3 years, upon positive evaluation after Year 1.
• The opportunity to contribute to a cutting‑edge, ERC‑funded research project at the intersection of biomechanics, computational modelling, and mechanobiology.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art molecular analysis and imaging techniques, as well as advanced computing infrastructure.
• A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment, with close collaborations across clinical, biological, and engineering sciences.
• Active support for your career development, including mentoring, participation in international conferences, and networking opportunities within and beyond the ERC project.

Interested?

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognise the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender iden