PhD Statistical Shape Modeling

Job description
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disabling disease, affecting the joints of 40% or more of the population over 60. Fully degenerated joints can be replaced with a prosthesis. To optimize the function and longevity of joint prostheses, a pre-operative planning system is being developed that is able to generate virtual 3D anatomical models from patient’s 2D X ray images. In this PhD position you will focus your research on application of statistical 3D shape and intensity models of bone and soft tissues to construct three dimensional anatomical models from two dimensional X-ray images.

Organisation
The LUMC is a center of medical innovation that will improve patient care through scientific research. You will work at the Biomechanics and Imaging Group (BIG), Department of Orthopaedics, in tight collaboration with the Division of Image Processing (LKEB). BIG consists of two staff members and ten PhD students.

Job requirements
We are looking for creative and enthusiastic scientists with an MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Informatics, Engineering or Physics. Furthermore you have:
• affinity with biomedical research and medical image processing;
• experience with object-oriented programming in C++;
• clear interest in the application and utilization of biomedical, technological research;
• good communication skills.

Information
A complete description of this position can be found on our website, www.lumc.nl (select ‘working for us’). If you have any questions, or if you want more information about this position, please contact Dr E.R. Valstar, associate professor, Department of Orthopaedics, telephone +31 (0)71 526 29 75, e-mail: e.r.valstar@lumc.nl.

What we offer
You will be employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. Appointment is for four years. Your salary will depend on your qualifications and experience, with a maximum of € 2,046 gross per month in the first year, increasing to € 2,622 gross per month in the fourth year, based on a full time position (scale for PhD in the Collective Labour Agreement for University Hospitals).

How to apply
If you are interested in the position listed above, please apply before 21 December 2009 by sending your application, including your CV and a brief statement of interest, to PenOdiv1@lumc.nl. Please clearly quote the vacancy number: A.09.NS.46/ASCI48. You may also apply via www.lumc.nl (choose ‘working for us’).