The University of Waterloo is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on predicting and overcoming freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease using exoskeletons and sensor fusion. This interdisciplinary research opportunity sits at the intersection of neuroscience, biomechanics, wearable robotics, and data science. The successful candidate will be co-supervised by Professors Kaylena Ehgoetz Martens and Arash Arami, and will work in a collaborative environment that values equity, diversity, and inclusion. The project aims to advance the prediction and understanding of FOG by integrating exoskeleton technology with multimodal sensor fusion. Key research components include experimental study of gait, integration of wearable sensors with exoskeleton systems, sensor fusion and machine learning for FOG prediction, and validation in both laboratory and real-world settings. The research will involve close collaboration with engineers, clinicians, and people living with Parkinson’s disease, ensuring strong translational and patient-centered impact. Applicants should have backgrounds in movement science, kinesiology, rehabilitation science, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, robotics, mechatronics, wearable technology, human-machine interaction, signal processing, sensor fusion, machine learning, data science, or clinical research related to Parkinson’s disease or gait disorders. Desired skills include experience with wearable sensors and gait analysis, human-subject experimentation, programming (Python, MATLAB, R, C/C++), and interdisciplinary research. The position offers access to state-of-the-art exoskeletons, wearable sensors, and motion analysis tools, as well as opportunities for international collaboration, conference presentations, and high-impact publications. The PhD is fully funded through research and institutional support, with additional opportunities for scholarships such as CIRTA, NSERC, and OGS. To apply, email [email protected] with the subject 'FOG-Exo PhD position' and include a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, and relevant publications.

The Arami Lab at the University of Waterloo is recruiting fully funded PhD students and postdoctoral fellows for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of Parkinson's disease, artificial intelligence, wearable robotics, and sensor fusion. The lab, led by Associate Professor Arash Arami and co-supervised by Professor Kaylena Ehgoetz Martens, focuses on advancing the prediction and understanding of freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson's disease through the integration of exoskeleton technology with multimodal sensor fusion and AI-driven approaches. Key research areas include experimental studies of gait and FOG, integration of wearable sensors with lower-limb exoskeletons, machine learning for FOG prediction, and validation in both laboratory and real-world settings. The lab values diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Candidates will have opportunities to collaborate with clinicians, engineers, and patient partners, and to participate in international collaborations, conferences, and high-impact publications. Applicants should have backgrounds in movement science, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, robotics, mechatronics, wearable technology, human-machine interaction, signal processing, sensor fusion, machine learning, or data science. Experience with wearable sensors, gait analysis, human-subject experimentation, and programming (Python, MATLAB, R, C/C++) is desirable. The lab offers access to state-of-the-art exoskeletons, wearable sensors, and motion analysis tools, as well as a supportive training environment focused on research excellence and career development. Funding is available through research grants and institutional support, with exceptional opportunities via the Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards (CIRTA) for international and Canadian candidates residing outside Canada. Additional funding options include NSERC and Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) for candidates in Canada. The application deadline is February 17, 2026. To apply, email [email protected] with the subject line 'FOG-Exo PhD position' (for PhD) or 'PostDoc AI-Robotics' (for postdoc), including a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, and relevant publications. For more information, visit the Arami Lab website or the University of Waterloo CIRTA program page.