Technical University of Denmark
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PhD Scholarship in Predictive Human Digital Twins for Human-Centred Systems Engineering Technical University of Denmark in Denmark
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
This is a full-time, three-year PhD employment appointment. Salary and appointment terms follow the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and DTU's salary structure for scientific staff. The PhD scholarship is subject to academic approval and includes enrolment in a DTU PhD degree programme; no specific stipend amount or tuition coverage is stated.
Deadline
Dec 2, 2026
Country
Denmark
University
Technical University of Denmark
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About this position
This PhD project at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) Construct focuses on predictive Human Digital Twins for human-centred systems engineering. The research combines biomechanics, artificial intelligence and systems engineering to create personalised computational models of how individuals move and interact with technical systems.
The project will develop methods that transform generic musculoskeletal models into personalised Human Digital Twins using sparse multimodal wearable-sensor data rather than costly laboratory measurements or medical imaging. The PhD researcher will combine physics-based and data-driven approaches for model calibration and prediction, and investigate how reliably the resulting twins reproduce real human movement and interaction.
A central research challenge is quantifying and reducing the sim2real gap between simulation and reality. The researcher will plan and conduct experimental studies with human participants, implement methods as open and reusable software, publish findings, and collaborate with DTU researchers and international partners. Applications include collaborative robots, assistive devices and other human-technology systems.
The position is part of the development of a new Human-Centred Design research group within DTU Construct's Human-Centred Systems Engineering activities. The researcher will join the Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering and the Engineering Design and Manufacturing Systems section, whose work integrates systems engineering, intelligent products, manufacturing systems, robust and bio-inspired design, and AI-enabled engineering. The PhD programme also includes doctoral courses and contributions to teaching, providing an interdisciplinary research environment spanning biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, robotics, computer science and computational modelling.
Funding details
This is a full-time, three-year PhD employment appointment. Salary and appointment terms follow the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and DTU's salary structure for scientific staff. The PhD scholarship is subject to academic approval and includes enrolment in a DTU PhD degree programme; no specific stipend amount or tuition coverage is stated.
What's required
Applicants must have an MSc or equivalent two-year master's degree worth 120 ECTS in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Design, or a related field. Candidates should have solid programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or C++, and a background in simulation, optimisation, machine learning, sensor processing, or parameter estimation. A strong interest in computational modelling of humans and human-technology systems, good English communication skills, and the ability to work independently and in a team are required. Experience with musculoskeletal modelling tools such as OpenSim, AnyBody, or SCONE, motion analysis, or wearable sensing is advantageous. Applicants may apply before obtaining the master's degree but must receive it before starting.
How to apply
Submit the complete online application through the DTU job portal by 2 December 2026 at 23:59 Danish time. Attach all materials in English as one PDF, including a motivating letter, CV, transcripts and BSc/MSc diplomas with grading-scale information, BSc and MSc theses, and any scientific articles. Questions may be directed to Jörg Miehling at [email protected] with “PhD Position Inquiry” in the subject line.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.