Open Positions

Thesis Objective:

• Do you want to develop cutting-edge imaging systems that advance our understanding of muscle function and movement
• Do you want to create 3D reconstructions of muscles that can transform how we visualize and study neuromuscular interactions?
• Do you want to contribute to the development of techniques that will make the placement of intramuscular electrodes easier, faster, and safer?

If so, we invite you to undertake your bachelor’s thesis in our Neuromuscular Physiology and Neural Interfacing Laboratory (n-squared lab). You will be working on an innovative project to set up a combined ultrasound and camera system, using Stradview and Stradwin software, to create detailed 3D reconstructions of muscles. Your task will involve developing a standardized protocol for imaging, scanning, and reconstructing muscle tissues, with a focus on identifying anatomical landmarks related to specific movements.

This project is integral to our lab’s mission of advancing neuromuscular research and technology. By improving the localization of key points of muscle activation, your work will directly contribute to enhancing the accuracy and safety of intramuscular electrode placement, ultimately supporting our efforts to develop interventions that help paralyzed individuals regain control of their movements. Join us as we push the boundaries of what is possible in neuromuscular science and technology.

Responsibilities:

1. System Setup:
   • Integrate the ultrasound and OptiTrack camera systems to work seamlessly using Stradview and Stradwin software.
   • Ensure proper calibration and synchronization of the imaging systems for accurate 3D reconstruction.
2. Protocol Development:
   • Develop a comprehensive standard protocol for conducting muscle imaging using the combined ultrasound and camera system.
   • Include detailed steps for preparing the subject, positioning the ultrasound probe and camera, and capturing images.
3. Muscle Scanning and Reconstruction:
   • Conduct initial scans of muscle tissues following the developed protocol.
   • Use Stradview and Stradwin to create 3D reconstructions of the scanned muscles.
4. Identification of Anatomical Landmarks:
   • Identify and annotate key anatomical landmarks in the 3D reconstructions that relate to specific muscle movements.
   • Develop guidelines for consistent identification and documentation of these landmarks.
5. Database Development:
   • Create a structured database to store muscle scans and associated anatomical landmarks.
   • Develop a system for organizing and accessing the data efficiently.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
   • Maintain detailed records of the system setup, protocol development, and muscle scanning procedures.
   • Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations to document the progress and findings of the thesis work.
7. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Work collaboratively with advisors, faculty members, and other researchers involved in the project.
   • Participate in regular meetings and discussions to share progress and receive feedback.

Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Biomedical Engineering, Medical Imaging, or a related field.
• Technical Skills: Basic knowledge of ultrasound imaging, camera tracking software, or image processing is a plus.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret imaging data and make informed decisions.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document research findings clearly and concisely.
• Collaboration Skills: Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented research environment.

Future Opportunities:

• Successful completion of this bachelor’s thesis could lead to a master’s project focused on data collection for a muscle scan database and statistical analysis to build heatmaps showing statistically common areas of muscle activations.

Application Process:

• A detailed CV
• A cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for the project
• Academic transcripts

For more information about our lab, please visit our website.

Please apply with a cover letter, CV and transcripts to nsquared@fau.de.