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Shou-Han Zhou

1 week ago

Self-Adaptive Energy-Harvesting Lower Limb Prosthesis for Rehabilitation (EPSRC DLA 3.5 year PhD) Cardiff University in United Kingdom

I am recruiting a PhD student for a project on self-adaptive energy-harvesting lower limb prosthesis for rehabilitation at Cardiff University.

Cardiff University

United Kingdom

email-of-the@publisher.com

Jan 9, 2026

Keywords

Biomedical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Rehabilitation Science
Electromyography
Energy Harvesting
Cybernetics
Injury Rehabilitation
Robotics
Biomechanic
Prosthetic
Mechatronics
Machine learning

Description

This EPSRC DLA 3.5-year PhD project at Cardiff University focuses on developing a self-adaptive, energy-harvesting lower limb prosthesis for rehabilitation. The research addresses the limitations of current rehabilitation devices, which often provide passive assistance and can lead to patient dependency, by introducing a lightweight, intelligent prosthesis system designed for long-term, home-based rehabilitation. The system features two main innovations: an energy-harvesting mechanism for self-sustained operation and an adaptive control algorithm that encourages active muscle engagement, supporting targeted muscle activation as prescribed by physiotherapists. The project leverages OpenSim, an open-source biomechanical simulation tool, to model lower limb movements during rehabilitation tasks such as sit-to-stand. These simulations will help identify optimal phases for energy harvesting and inform the timing and magnitude of prosthesis assistance and resistance, forming the basis for a control framework that balances effective rehabilitation with energy efficiency. The adaptive algorithm will use real-time electromyography (EMG) feedback to personalize assistance, ensuring muscle activation remains at optimal levels for each user. Initial validation will be conducted with healthy participants, followed by pilot testing with patients diagnosed with knee arthritis. The project builds on an existing prototype and aims to advance the technology towards a fully intelligent, energy-autonomous rehabilitation device, contributing to the field of precision rehabilitation and supporting independent recovery in home settings. Applicants should have a strong background in Engineering or a related field, with a first-class or good 2.1 degree (or equivalent), and meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Full funding is available for both Home and International students, covering tuition fees and a competitive stipend. The application deadline is January 9, 2026, with interviews for shortlisted candidates. For more information, prospective applicants can contact Dr Shou-Han Zhou at Cardiff University.

Funding

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

How to apply

Submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University website, selecting Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) with a start date of October 2026. Upload your CV, personal statement, two references (third recommended if needed), and academic transcripts. In your research proposal, specify the project title, supervisors, and copy the project description. In the funding section, select 'I will be applying for a scholarship / grant' and reference DLA SHZ 2026.

Requirements

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first-class degree or a good 2.1 (or their equivalent) in Engineering or a related subject. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Applicants must submit a CV, personal statement/covering letter, two references (a third academic referee is recommended if the first two are from the same department), and current academic transcripts.

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