PhD in Soft Robotic Medical Devices for Vascular Applications at KTH Royal Institute of Technology KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden

The Intelligent Heart Technology Lab (I-HeaL) at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden, is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Soft Robotic Medical Devices for Vascular Applications. The research is situated within the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Health Systems and focuses on the design and development of implantable and wearable systems, including artificial hearts, blood pressure sensors, and soft robots for cardiovascular health. The project emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with the Karolinska Institute and Hospital, and aims to advance technologies that adapt to physiological and mental needs.

The doctoral student will lead research on designing interfaces between active soft devices and dynamic vasculature, utilizing methods from soft robotics, biomechanics, vascular biology, and device manufacturing. Validation of these technologies will occur in translational preclinical models. The lab encourages applicants with backgrounds in biomedical, mechanical, or robotics engineering, and with research interests in biomechanics, micro and nano systems, and physiology.

Supervision will be provided by Assistant Professor Seraina Anne Dual and Associate Professor Ljubica Matic. The position is fully funded, offering a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral student salary agreement, and includes employee benefits. The employment is full-time and temporary, initially for one year and renewable up to four years for completion of the doctoral degree.

Eligibility requirements include a second cycle degree (master's or equivalent), or at least 240 higher education credits (with at least 60 at the second-cycle level), and English proficiency equivalent to English B/6. Selection criteria focus on academic background, research interests, goal orientation, perseverance, independence, collaboration skills, professional approach, analytical ability, and capacity to integrate into an interdisciplinary environment.

Applicants must submit a complete application through KTH's recruitment system, including a CV, application letter, diplomas, grades, language certificates, and relevant publications or reports. The deadline for applications is January 7, 2026. For further information or questions, candidates may contact Assistant Professor Seraina Anne Dual at [email protected].

Keywords: Soft Robotics, Medical Devices, Vascular Applications, Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanics, Micro and Nano Systems, Physiology, Robotics Engineering, Device Manufacturing, Translational Preclinical Models.