Ilse Jonkers

This ERC-funded postdoctoral position at KU Leuven focuses on the multiscale modeling of cartilage mechanics within the OA-CONNECT project, which aims to unravel why mechanical loading, typically beneficial for cartilage and chondrocytes, becomes detrimental in osteoarthritis (OA). The research bridges joint mechanics and cellular processes using a multidisciplinary approach that integrates in vitro, in silico, and in vivo methodologies. The successful candidate will develop advanced multiscale models to mechanistically relate mechanical loading at the cartilage surface to the cell’s microenvironment and molecular processes. Key responsibilities include utilizing finite element models of cartilage deformation validated by deformation microscopy and MRI, adapting gene regulatory network models to align molecular transduction processes in OA chondrocytes with bioreactor study results, and integrating imaging techniques such as PET-MRI and molecular read-outs. The project offers a unique opportunity to gain unprecedented insights into cartilage degeneration and mechanobiological mechanisms, enabling non-invasive detection of tissue and microstructural changes in both healthy and OA-affected cartilage. The postdoctoral researcher will design, execute, and analyze model-based workflows, apply inverse finite element modeling for mechanical characterization, and integrate diverse data into a coherent mechanobiological framework. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, biologists, and clinicians is central, as is dissemination of research through publications, conferences, and science communication. The position also involves supervising master’s and PhD students and contributing to a supportive research culture. Applicants should have a PhD in biomedical sciences or a related field, strong quantitative and modeling skills, and experience in interdisciplinary research. The appointment is full-time for one year, with the possibility of extension, and includes access to state-of-the-art molecular analysis and imaging facilities, advanced computing infrastructure, and active career development support. KU Leuven provides an inclusive and diverse research environment. The application deadline is December 1, 2025. For further details, candidates may contact Prof. dr. Ilse Jonkers or Mr. Ali Elahi.

KU Leuven invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in Multiscale Modeling of Cartilage Mechanics, as part of the ERC-funded OA-CONNECT project. This research aims to answer a fundamental question in osteoarthritis (OA): why does mechanical loading, typically beneficial for cartilage and chondrocytes, become harmful in OA? The project bridges joint mechanics and cellular processes through a multiscale and multidisciplinary approach, combining in vitro, in silico, and in vivo methodologies to map the pathway from mechanical stimulus to cellular response. The doctoral researcher will focus on developing advanced multiscale models that mechanistically relate mechanical loading at the cartilage surface to the cell’s microenvironment and molecular processes. Key tasks include utilizing finite element models of cartilage deformation under load, validated by deformation microscopy, high-field MRI, and clinical MRI to map strain fields. The role also involves adapting and refining gene regulatory network models to align molecular transduction processes in OA chondrocytes with results from in vitro bioreactor studies. These innovations provide unprecedented insight into cartilage degeneration and mechanobiological mechanisms, enabling non-invasive detection of changes in tissue and microstructural properties in both healthy and degenerative cartilage. As a doctoral researcher, you will design, execute, and analyze model-based workflows to study the molecular response of cartilage under mechanical load. You will integrate advanced imaging techniques, including deformation microscopy, high-field MRI, clinical MRI, PET-MRI, and molecular read-outs, and apply inverse finite element modeling for multiscale mechanical characterization. The project requires integration of in vitro, in silico, and in vivo data into a coherent multiscale mechanobiological framework, collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, biologists, and clinicians, and dissemination of research results through publications, conference presentations, and science communication. You will also supervise master’s students and contribute to an open, supportive, and collaborative research culture. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in biomedical, mechanical, or bioengineering sciences, or a closely related field, with a strong quantitative background and affinity for biological processes. A solid background in multiscale finite element modeling and/or gene regulatory network modeling is required. Practical experience in in vitro bioreactor experiments, molecular analysis techniques, or non-invasive material testing is a plus. Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research, preferably at the interface of engineering, biology, and/or clinical research, is expected. A strong scientific track record supported by peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences, creative and independent research mindset, strong problem-solving skills, team-oriented attitude, and excellent communication skills in English (written and oral) are required. The position offers a full-time appointment for 1 year, with the possibility of extension up to 3 years upon positive evaluation. The project is ERC-funded and provides access to state-of-the-art molecular analysis and imaging techniques, advanced computing infrastructure, and active support for career development, including mentoring, participation in international conferences, and networking opportunities. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering an ambitious and supportive research environment. Interested candidates should apply online via the KU Leuven jobsite. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Ilse Jonkers at [email protected]. The application deadline is July 30, 2026.

This fully funded PhD position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to join the ERC-funded OA-CONNECT project, supervised by Prof. dr. Ilse Jonkers with co-supervision by Dr. Maarten De Vos and Dr. Lennart Scheys. The project aims to unravel why mechanical loading, typically beneficial for cartilage health, becomes detrimental in osteoarthritis (OA). OA-CONNECT is an interdisciplinary research program that bridges joint-level biomechanics and cellular processes using in vitro, in silico, and in vivo methodologies. The PhD research will focus on developing AI-driven, patient-specific predictive models for cartilage degeneration, integrating real-world biomechanical data (from wearables and video analysis), clinical data (medical imaging and biomarkers), and multiscale computational models. As a PhD researcher, you will process and analyze biomechanical data to quantify joint loading, implement and extend musculoskeletal and cartilage loading models, develop and evaluate AI models (including deep learning), build probabilistic models to predict disease progression, and integrate diverse datasets into a unified framework. Model validation will be performed using data from a prospective clinical cohort of knee osteoarthritis patients. The project emphasizes reproducible analysis pipelines, open research practices, and close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, clinicians, and data scientists. Dissemination of research through publications, conferences, and outreach is expected. Applicants should have a master’s degree in engineering sciences or biomedical engineering, with strong foundations in artificial intelligence or data science. Essential skills include programming (Python, MATLAB, or similar), analytical and problem-solving abilities, and excellent English communication. Experience with musculoskeletal modeling (OpenSim), multiscale modeling, or machine learning in healthcare is a strong asset. Candidates should be motivated, independent, and collaborative, with a keen interest in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of AI, biomechanics, and clinical science. The position is fully funded for four years under a prestigious ERC Advanced Grant, with a formal evaluation at the end of the first year determining continued funding. Candidates are expected to apply for a personal PhD fellowship (FWO) during their first year, supported by the institution. KU Leuven provides access to unique multimodal datasets, a state-of-the-art research environment, and strong support for scientific and professional development, including mentoring, conference participation, and networking. The university is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, offering support for accessibility and a respectful academic environment. To apply, submit your application via the KU Leuven job portal. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Ilse Jonkers at [email protected].

Two research openings are available in the HappyJoints Research group at KU Leuven , embedded within Ilse Jonkers ’ recently funded ERC Advanced Grant OA-CONNECT . The project aims to understand how mechanical loading drives cartilage health and osteoarthritis progression across scales, from whole-joint mechanics to cellular responses. The opportunities include a Postdoc position in knee mechanobiology and a PhD position focused on computer-based analysis of cartilage loading . These roles are well suited to candidates with interests in biomedical engineering , mechanical engineering , biology , medical science , and computational analysis of musculoskeletal systems. The post is shared by Bryce Killen , who appears to be an academic recruiter connected with KU Leuven. The announcement highlights the research theme and the two vacancy links, but does not provide detailed salary, stipend, or deadline information in the text provided. Interested applicants should review the official KU Leuven vacancy pages for the postdoc and PhD roles, check the specific eligibility criteria, and apply through the university recruitment system. The LinkedIn post and KU Leuven job pages are the main sources for the application details.

This ERC-funded postdoctoral position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the mechanobiology of the osteoarthritic (OA) knee joint within the OA-CONNECT project. The research aims to unravel why mechanical loading, typically beneficial for cartilage health, becomes detrimental in osteoarthritis. The OA-CONNECT consortium employs a multidisciplinary, multiscale approach, integrating in vitro, in silico, and in vivo methodologies to link joint biomechanics with cellular processes. The successful candidate will focus on the human and clinical aspects of OA-CONNECT, utilizing advanced movement analysis, medical imaging, and longitudinal patient monitoring to identify movement-related factors contributing to cartilage degeneration and treatment response in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. The project combines laboratory-based motion analysis, wearable sensor technology, medical imaging, clinical outcome measures, and musculoskeletal modeling to understand how movement influences disease progression and optimize biomechanical interventions. Responsibilities include recruiting and assessing participants with knee osteoarthritis, coordinating biomechanical measurements (motion capture, force plates, wearable sensors, clinical assessments), managing clinical, functional, and imaging data collection, analyzing movement patterns and joint loading during daily activities and therapeutic interventions, and applying musculoskeletal modeling approaches to estimate tissue loading. The postdoc will contribute to longitudinal studies, collaborate with clinicians, physiotherapists, engineers, and basic scientists, disseminate findings through scientific publications and presentations, and help supervise PhD and Master students. Applicants must hold a PhD in Physiotherapy, Movement Sciences, Rehabilitation Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline. Essential qualifications include strong interest and experience in human movement analysis, biomechanics, and musculoskeletal health, as well as skills in motion analysis, wearable technologies, biomechanical data processing, or musculoskeletal modeling. Analytical and problem-solving skills, organizational and communication abilities, and the capacity to work independently in a multidisciplinary team are required. Good written and spoken English is mandatory; basic Dutch is an asset. The position is funded for two years by a prestigious ERC Advanced Grant, offering access to state-of-the-art movement analysis laboratories, imaging facilities, and clinical cohorts. KU Leuven provides an interdisciplinary and international research environment, extensive opportunities for scientific training, international collaboration, conference participation, and career development. Junior postdoctoral candidates are encouraged and supported in acquiring personal fellowships. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering an open and respectful academic environment. For accessibility or support questions, contact the provided email address. Application deadline is August 14, 2026. Apply online via the KU Leuven job portal. For more information, contact Prof. dr. Ilse Jonkers at [email protected].