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EURAXESS

Junior Researcher positions on the biomechanics of the primate shoulder

The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers
15 Feb 2024

Job Information

Organisation/Company
KU Leuven
Research Field
Biological sciences » Biological engineering
Researcher Profile
First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country
Belgium
Application Deadline
Type of Contract
Temporary
Job Status
Full-time
Hours Per Week
38 hours/week
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?
Not funded by an EU programme
Reference Number
BAP-2024-65
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?
No

Offer Description

We invite applications for two Junior Researcher positions in functional anatomy, explicitly focusing on the biomechanics of the primate shoulder. This exciting opportunity is part of a research project in collaboration with the University of Ghent (Belgium) and TU Delft (the Netherlands) that aims to deepen our understanding of the intricacies of primate shoulder anatomy and its implications for human evolution. Which anatomical traits in the shoulder affect forelimb function? And which can be used to reconstruct the locomotor behaviour of our ancestors from fossil remains?
To address these questions we combine techniques from different disciplines - medical imaging, computational modelling, shape analysis, biomechanical experiments, anatomical dissections – and apply these to study chimpanzees, bonobos, gibbons, gorillas and orangutans.

Key Responsibilities:
-    Conduct independent research on the functional anatomy of the primate shoulder
-    Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research team
-    Communicate research findings through presentations, publications and other media
-    Utilize various software packages for modelling, data analysis and interpretation
-    Apply for additional funding

Requirements

Research Field
Computer science
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent
Languages
ENGLISH
Level
Excellent

Additional Information

Benefits
  • 4 year position with competitive salary. The initial contract will be for 1 year and will be extended after a positive evaluation.
  • Excellent guidance by a dynamic, international and multidisciplinary team
  • High level scientific training at two top-ranked universities
  • Enrolment in PhD program at the doctoral school of KU Leuven and/or UGent
  • Preferred starting date: as soon as your schedule permits, starting from 1st of April 2024
Eligibility criteria

Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Movement Sciences, Biology, Biological Anthropology, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Sciences)
  • Demonstrate a strong affinity with human evolution and anatomy
  • Being open to combine computational talent with anatomical skills
  • Proficiency in English (both written and spoken)
  • Excellent academic record, demonstrating a high level of competency
  • Highly motivated and enthusiastic about contributing to cutting-edge research

Desired Skills:
-    Experience with various software packages for image processing, modelling and data analysis
-    Programming experience is a plus (e.g., Python, Matlab, R)
-    Excellent communication skills with experience or interest in scientific outreach
Please note that we are describing the background we imagine would best fit the role. Even if you do not meet all the requirements and feel that you are up for the task, we absolutely want to see your application! The research process is also a learning experience.

Selection process

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Evie Vereecke via e-mail: evie.vereecke@kuleuven.be and mention "PhD position Primate Shoulder" in the subject line
You can apply for this job no later than 04/04/2024 via the online application tool

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available
1
Company/Institute
KU Leuven
Country
Belgium
State/Province
West-Vlaanderen
City
Kortrijk/Gent
Postal Code
8500
Street
Kortrijk/Gent
Geofield

Contact

State/Province
Kortrijk/Gent
City
West-Vlaanderen
Street
Kortrijk/Gent
Postal Code
8500