Keita Ito

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on the computational growth and remodeling of cartilage microtissues, aiming to advance the mechanistic understanding of tissue engineering for articular cartilage regeneration. The project is embedded within the Department of Biomedical Engineering, specifically in the Orthopaedic Biomechanics (OPB) and Modeling in Mechanobiology (MMB) research groups. The OPB group investigates tissue engineering, mechanobiology, and biomechanics of orthopaedic tissues, while the MMB group specializes in mechanobiology and computational modeling of native and engineered tissues. The research will develop novel computational frameworks, extending in-house homogenized constrained-mixture finite element models originally used for cardiovascular tissues, to simulate cartilage microtissue growth and matrix remodeling. The focus is on understanding how mechanical and geometric properties of engineered microenvironments influence microtissue growth dynamics, matrix composition, and anisotropic matrix architecture. The project is entirely computational but involves close collaboration with experimental researchers for model validation and informing new in vitro experiments. As a PhD candidate, you will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, biologists, and clinicians, contributing to innovation in regenerative medicine. You will participate in educational and professional development programs, supervise BSc and MSc students, present research at scientific conferences, publish in journals, and complete a doctoral dissertation. The department offers a vibrant academic environment with integrated education and research in areas such as Chemical Biology, Biosensing, Biomaterials, Biomechanics, Tissue Engineering, Computational Biology, Biomedical Imaging, and Modelling. Applicants must have an MSc degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field, with demonstrated experience in finite element modeling. Affinity for theoretical mechanics, creativity, initiative, and collaborative skills are essential. Experience with tissue growth models and mechanical characterization of biological materials is advantageous. Fluency in English is required. The position offers full-time employment for four years, with a competitive salary (scale P: €3,059–€3,881/month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, and a tax compensation scheme for international candidates. The university provides high-quality training, technical infrastructure, sports facilities, and a supportive campus environment. Applications must be submitted online via the provided link, including a cover letter, CV with publications and references, and MSc transcript. Priority is given to complete applications. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a deadline of April 30, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Sebastien Callens at s.j.p.callens@tue.nl.

PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology in computational growth and remodeling of cartilage microtissues. This project sits within the Department of Biomedical Engineering and is embedded in two research groups: Orthopaedic Biomechanics (OPB) and Modeling in Mechanobiology (MMB). The work focuses on mechano-driven cartilage tissue engineering and aims to develop a computational growth and remodeling framework to study how cartilage microtissues grow, fuse, and organize their matrix in response to mechanical and geometric cues. The successful candidate will extend in-house homogenized constrained-mixture finite element models to simulate cartilage tissue growth, matrix composition, and anisotropic matrix architecture inside engineered confining microenvironments. The project is entirely computational, but it is closely connected to experimental researchers working on cartilage microtissues and biomaterials, enabling model tuning, validation, and feedback into in vitro experiments. Applicants should have an MSc or equivalent in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. Strong finite element modeling experience is essential. Experience with tissue growth models, constrained-mixture modeling, or mechanical characterization of biological materials is a plus. The position also calls for strong theoretical skills in mechanics and/or applied mathematics, creativity, initiative, collaboration, and excellent English communication skills. The appointment is full time for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. The position includes teaching duties and opportunities to supervise BSc and MSc students. Salary is according to Dutch university scale P, with additional benefits including a year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension, leave provisions, training opportunities, commuting/work-from-home support, and assistance for international candidates. Supervision will be provided by Dr. Sebastien Callens, Prof. Keita Ito, and Dr. Sandra Loerakker. Interested candidates should apply online before 2026-09-16 through the provided application portal.