4-Years PhD Position in Multi-Scale Structure-Composition-Function Relationships in Osteoporosis Fracture Prediction (OsteoFX)

28/07/2025

The project

This PhD project, embedded within the Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (BMMB) laboratory, Department of Information and Communication Technologies (DTIC), UPF. OsteoFX is an interdisciplinary research project that aims to advance the prediction of osteoporotic hip fractures through the development of innovative multiscale computational models linking bone structure, composition, and mechanical performance. Recognizing the limitations of current diagnostic tools, such as DXA-derived areal bone mineral density, the project integrates patient-specific 3D modeling and finite element analysis derived from DXA imaging with multiscale theoretical frameworks. The PhD candidate will investigate how nano- and microscale alterations in bone composition and collagen architecture influence macroscopic mechanical behavior and fracture risk. By integrating theoretical modeling, image-based simulations, and clinical data, the project aims to develop a robust, treatment-sensitive fracture risk index that supports personalized strategies for osteoporosis diagnosis and management.

Your Role

As a doctoral researcher, you will:

• Assess the impact of osteoporosis on bone nano-mechanical properties and reinterpret clinical image intensities, through multi-scale theoretical calculations, considering possibly altered fibrillogenesis in osteoporosis.
• Achieve patient-specific orthotropic elastic property and post-yield behavior of cortical and trabecular compartments for 3D-DXA-based FE models.
• Achieve an index to assess osteoporotic fracture risk through the integration of multiscale bone mechanics, post-yield behavior descriptions, and patient-specific femur modeling, in osteoporosis clinical cohorts.
• Publish in peer-reviewed international journals and present at international conferences.

Qualifications

• Hold a BSc and an MSc in either Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Biomechanics.
• Solid background in continuum mechanics, fracture mechanics, and mechanics of composite materials.
• MSc thesis focused on finite element modeling and simulation in continuum mechanics and fracture mechanics of bio-based or composite materials.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or equivalent).
• Experience in conducting experimental tests and validating FE models against experimental data will be considered a strong asset
• Be able to demonstrate a proficient level of English, both written and spoken. A language certificate is not mandatory, but a proper English level will have to be demonstrated during the interview 

Supervision Team

Jérôme Noailly (Full professor; Expertise: Modelling and simulations in biomechanics and (systems) biology) - [email protected]
Elham Alizadeh (Postdoctoral Research Fellow; Expertise: Computational Biomechanics, Continuum mechanics, Fracture mechanics) - [email protected]

Funding & Benefits

Three-year fully funded contract with the following gross salary (as per the 2025 retribution tables):

• Year 1 : 18.180,48 €
• Year 2: 18.180,48 €
• Year 3: 19.479,14 €
• Year 4: 24.348,78 €

Additional support: Conference travels. Access to UPF’s doctoral training in transferable skills.

Application Instructions

Applications must be submitted through the online platform Interfolio by August 25th, 2025, including:

1. CV
2. Motivation letter 
3. Two reference letters 
4. A copy of the MSc Diploma
5. A copy of academic transcripts (BSc/MSc).
6. A link to a PDF copy of the MSc thesis

APPLY HERE