PhD Position, Marie-Curie RTN fellowship:
Image segmentation and modeling soft tissue deformation

This thesis will take place in the Asclepios team at INRIA
Sophia-Antipolis within the framework of the European Marie-Curie
Research and Training Network entitled “3D Anatomical Human”.


Description :
==============

The objective of this research and training network is to increase the
development of technologies and knowledge around virtual representations
of human body for interactive medical applications.
The network has a specific goal: developing realistic functional 3D
models for the human musculoskeletal system, the methodology being
demonstrated on the lower limb. Partners of this network include the
EPFL (Switzerland), University of Geneva (Switzerland), CRS4 in Pula
(Italy), Aalborg university (Danemark), UCL (UK), Vrije Universiteit
Brussel (Belgium).

The objectives of the proposed thesis are twofold. First, it consists in
segmenting anatomical structures of the lower limb (muscles, bones,
ligaments) from static and dynamic MR images. Because of the variability
of those structures, the segmentation will be performed by combining
non-rigid image registration with segmentation based on deformable models.

In a second stage, the research activity will consist in developing
efficient soft tissue and muscle models that can be validated on
rheological datasets. Those models should be based on continuum
mechanics and the finite element method and a procedure of estimating
mechanical parameters from rheological experiments should be developed
within the scope of the thesis.

The thesis will include training periods at some sites of the European
partners cited above.


Requirements :
===============

The candidate should have a background in mathematics, mechanics or
computer science. Good programming (preferably with C++) and
mathematical skills are essential. Experience with numerical analysis,
modelling, medical image analysis, muscle physiology or image processing
would be an advantage. English written and spoken is necessary.

Criteria on nationality, age and qualification apply. The candidate must
preferably be citizen of the European union but must not be a French
citizen or should not have spend more than 12 months in France for the
last 3 years.

We strongly encourage the application of women candidates.


Salary :
========

The net income starts from 2000 € per month and may vary depending on 
the family situation and the country of origin.


Contact :
=========

Send email to Herve.Delingette@inria.fr