Student Projects
Biomechanical Investigation of Strain-Dependent Permeability in a Self-Lubricating Hip Prosthesis
Current joint replacements cannot replicate the natural weeping lubrication mechanism found in cartilage, resulting in a typical implant lifespan of about 15–20 years due to friction and wear, often leading to revision surgery, particularly in younger patients. Inspired by the load-induced self-pressurization behavior of articular cartilage, we aim to design and develop a novel self-lubricating hip prosthesis that mimics this physiological lubrication mechanism. We have developed a self-lubricating hip prosthesis model in COMSOL Multiphysics that integrates three coupled multiphysics phenomena: Fluid–Structure Interaction, Free and Porous Media Flow, and Poroelasticity. This semester project aims to investigate how the strain-dependent permeability of a hydrogel layer influences fluid transport and lubrication performance within the prosthesis. In addition, the time required for fluid depletion from the prosthesis will be evaluated under different physiological loading conditions such as walking, jogging, and cycling. The non-Newtonian rheological behavior of synovial fluid will also be incorporated to better represent realistic joint lubrication conditions. Students with a background in mechanical engineering, particularly in fluid dynamics, are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with COMSOL Multiphysics is beneficial but not mandatory.
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Published since: 2026-03-23 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-08-01
Organization Musculoskeletal Biomechanics
Hosts Mosayebi Mahdieh
Topics Engineering and Technology
Biomechanical Investigation of a Self-Lubricating Hip Prosthesis in the Presence of an Articulating Femoral Head
Current joint replacements cannot replicate the natural weeping lubrication mechanism found in cartilage, resulting in a typical implant lifespan of about 15–20 years due to friction and wear, often leading to revision surgery, particularly in younger patients. Inspired by the load-induced self-pressurization behavior of articular cartilage, we aim to design and develop a novel self-lubricating hip prosthesis that mimics this physiological lubrication mechanism. We have developed a self-lubricating hip prosthesis model in COMSOL Multiphysics that integrates three coupled multiphysics phenomena: Fluid–Structure Interaction, Free and Porous Media Flow, and Poroelasticity. In this semester project, the computational model will be extended by incorporating the femoral head to represent the physiological articulating joint configuration more realistically. The study will investigate how the presence of the femoral head influences fluid pressure distribution, fluid transport, and lubrication behavior within the prosthesis under physiological loading conditions. In addition, the effect of the non-Newtonian rheological behavior of synovial fluid on the lubrication response of the system will be examined. Students with a background in mechanical engineering, particularly in fluid dynamics, are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with COMSOL Multiphysics is beneficial but not mandatory.
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Published since: 2026-03-23 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2026-08-01
Organization Musculoskeletal Biomechanics
Hosts Mosayebi Mahdieh
Topics Engineering and Technology
NAD+ metabolism in fibroblast inflammation and fibrosis
This project is focused on the metabolic changes in synovial fibroblasts during the development of inflammation and fibrosis during osteoarthritis.
Keywords
NAD, osteoarthritis, fibroblast, cell culture, molecular biology
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Semester Project , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-03-18 , Earliest start: 2026-05-01 , Latest end: 2027-05-31
Organization Maerz Laboratory / Musculoskeletal Bioengineering
Hosts DeJulius Carlisle
Topics Biology
Unraveling the Link Between Meniscal Extrusion and Tibiofemoral Contact Stability: A Multi-Parametric Analysis of Dynamic Trajectories and Cumulative Compressive Burden
Meniscal extrusion is a critical precursor to knee osteoarthritis, yet its specific impact on dynamic contact stability remains poorly understood. This project utilizes high-precision dual-fluoroscopy to investigate the correlation between meniscal lateral displacement and tibial compartment contact mechanics. We propose a comprehensive evaluation framework combining kinematic stability metrics (e.g., Excursion, Instantaneous Jitter, Convex Hull Area) with a novel Cumulative Compressive Deformation (CCD) index. By quantifying how meniscal failure exacerbates contact wandering and cumulative stress, this study aims to identify early biomechanical markers of cartilage degeneration.
Keywords
Meniscal Extrusion; Contact Stability; Cumulative Compressive Deformation (CCD); Dual-Fluoroscopy; Osteoarthritis.
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-05 , Earliest start: 2026-03-05 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization Knee Joint Articular Contact Kinematics
Hosts Jiang Ziang
Topics Medical and Health Sciences
Biomechanical Efficacy of Orthotic Footwear Interventions in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multi-Modal Analysis of Static Loading and Dynamic Contact Mechanics
This study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of three footwear conditions, including Control, Lateral Wedge Insoles (LWI), and Variable Stiffness Shoes (VSS), on the medial tibiofemoral compartment. By integrating high-speed dual-fluoroscopy with force plate kinetics, we analyze joint mechanics across static (unloaded vs. loaded) and dynamic states (gait cycle). Specifically, we investigate whether reductions in the external Knee Adduction Moment (KAM) at 1st and 2nd peaks translate into tangible improvements in internal contact patterns, such as medial Joint Space Width (JSW) recovery and contact location shifts. This project aims to cross-validate kinetic surrogates with in vivo kinematic ground truth to determine the optimal intervention strategy.
Keywords
Knee Osteoarthritis; Conservative Treatment; Kinetics; Dual-Fluoroscopy; Joint Space Width (JSW); Contact Location.
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-05 , Earliest start: 2026-03-05 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization Knee Joint Articular Contact Kinematics
Hosts Jiang Ziang
Topics Medical and Health Sciences
Biomechanical Investigation into the Loading-Response Mechanisms and Factors Underlying Non-Response to Variable Stiffness Shoes in Knee Osteoarthritis
Lateral Wedge Insoles (LWI) are a common intervention for medial Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) but suffer from a high non-response rate (25-50%) and potential ankle instability risks. Variable Stiffness Shoes (VSS) offer a novel approach by inducing dynamic Center of Pressure (COP) shifts via gradient sole modulus. However, the internal joint mechanisms determining patient responsiveness to VSS remain unclear. This study utilizes high-precision dual-fluoroscopy combined with motion capture to investigate the root causes of "non-response," hypothesizing that subtalar joint stiffness and Foot Progression Angle (FPA) mismatch are critical limiting factors. We aim to quantify the dynamic minimum Joint Space Width (mJSW) recovery and compare the ankle safety profile of VSS against LWI, providing a theoretical basis for personalized orthotic design.
Keywords
Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA); Variable Stiffness Shoes (VSS); Lateral Wedge Insole (LWI); Non-responder; Subtalar Joint Stiffness; Dual-Fluoroscopy; Dynamic Joint Space Width (mJSW); Foot Progression Angle (FPA); Ankle Stability.
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-03-05 , Earliest start: 2026-03-05 , Latest end: 2026-09-30
Organization Knee Joint Articular Contact Kinematics
Hosts Jiang Ziang
Topics Medical and Health Sciences
Praktikum in Sport & Exercise Biomechanics (OYM, Cham)
Im Bereich Sport & Exercise Biomechanics suchen wir Unterstützung bei der Durchführung und Auswertung von wissenschaftlichen Messungen im Bewegungsanaly-selabor (Motion Capture und Kraftmessplatten).
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Published since: 2026-02-27 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Taylor Group / Laboratory for Movement Biomechanics
Hosts Zemp Roland, Dr.
Topics Medical and Health Sciences
INVESTIGATING TRABECULARIZATION IN RESPONSE TO INTERMITTENT PARATHYROID HORMONE THERAPY AND MECHANICAL LOADING AFTER ESTROGEN DEPLETION
The student project will investigate the bone response to intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy after estrogen depletion with a specific focus on its capacity to induce trabecularization. The quantitative analysis of experimental in vivo micro-computed tomography scans will lead to new insights into the mechanisms of trabecularization and to define the contribution of mechanical stimulation in this process. The results are expected to advance mechanistic understanding of anabolic PTH therapy and inform the development of future patient-specific treatment strategies.
Keywords
Osteoporosis, parathyroid hormone therapy, mechanical loading, trabecular bone, python programming, R statistical evaluation
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-02-24 , Earliest start: 2026-04-01 , Latest end: 2027-03-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Schulte Friederike
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Automation and optimization of a melt electrowriting sytem for layered osteochondral scaffold fabrication
We are looking for a motivated master’s student to work on the automation and optimization of a melt electrowriting (MEW) system, with the aim of enabling the reproducible fabrication of layered scaffolds for osteochondral tissue engineering. The project combines machine-level development with biofabrication and scaffold design, focusing on improving process control and extending MEW toward mechanically integrated cartilage–bone constructs.
Keywords
Melt electrowriting (MEW) ; Biofabrication ; Osteochondral Scaffolds; Articular Cartilage; Subchondral Bone; Additive Manufacturing; Tissue Engineering; Scaffold Design
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2026-02-13 , Earliest start: 2026-02-23 , Latest end: 2026-08-28
Organization Tissue Mechanobiology
Hosts Amicone Alessio , Pizorn Jaka
Topics Engineering and Technology
How Sensory Neurons Shape Joint Function and Pain
Joint disorders and joint pain affect millions of people across all ages, yet the neuronal mechanisms that link joint mechanics to dysfunction and pain remain poorly understood. In this project, the student will explore how sensory neurons detect mechanical forces in musculoskeletal tissues and how altered sensing contributes to joint pathology and pain. The project integrates in vivo imaging, mouse genetics, and molecular profiling to study sensory neuron function during mechanical stimulation and disease. Working at the interface of neuroscience and biomechanics, the student will contribute to uncovering fundamental principles of joint somatosensation. This project is ideal for motivated students interested in sensory neuroscience, mechanobiology, and joint disorders, and offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge experimental approaches, merging biomechanics and neuroscience.
Keywords
Sensory neurons, Joint pain, Mechanosensation, In vivo imaging, Mouse genetics, Neuroscience, Biomechanics
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-27 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-11-01
Organization Snedeker Group / Laboratory for Orthopaedic Biomechanics
Hosts Passini Fabian
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Design and Development of a Bioelectronic Sensing Platform for Living Systems
This master’s thesis addresses the design and development of a bioelectronic sensing platform for the monitoring of three-dimensional biological constructs. The work focuses on electrical interfaces and hardware architectures to achieve stable, reproducible measurements in engineered tissue systems over extended periods.
Keywords
Bioelectronics, multi-electrode systems, engineered tissues, monitoring dynamics, experimental bioengineering
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Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-26 , Earliest start: 2026-02-16 , Latest end: 2026-11-30
Organization Qin Group / Biomaterials Engineering
Hosts Agrawal Prajwal
Topics Information, Computing and Communication Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Exploring the Mechanoregulation of Bone Regeneration
In over 100 years, the remarkable ability of bone to adapt to its mechanical environment has been a source of scientific fascination. Bone regeneration has been shown to be highly dependent on the mechanical environment at the fracture site. It has been demonstrated that mechanical stimuli can either accelerate or impede regeneration. Despite the fundamental importance of the mechanical environment in influencing bone regeneration, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are complex and poorly understood.
Keywords
Bone, Mechanobiology, Spatial transcriptomics, Gene expression, Finite element modelling, Image processing
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-19 , Earliest start: 2026-01-19 , Latest end: 2026-08-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Mathavan Neashan
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
Design and manufacturing of next-generation hip implants
The Laboratory of Orthopedic Technology has developed a novel joint implant and is currently optimizing its manufacturing process. We are seeking a highly motivated Master’s student in Mechanical Engineering to join our team for a Master’s thesis project. The project will focus on the mechanical design and experimental validation of the implant. Tasks will include improving the implant design, adapting mechanical testing equipment, and performing mechanical testing to evaluate the implant’s performance. Your tasks Mechanical design and optimization of the joint implant Adaptation and setup of mechanical testing equipment Development and execution of experimental testing protocols Analysis and interpretation of experimental results Your profile Master’s student in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field Interest in orthopedic implants and new materials development Experience with CAD and mechanical testing is an advantage Motivated, independent, and interested in experimental research This project offers the opportunity to work at the interface of mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, and materials science, contributing to the development of innovative orthopedic implant technologies.
Keywords
Implant, orthopedic, mechanical design, equipment, injection mold, startup, medtec
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Semester Project , Internship , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-17 , Earliest start: 2026-03-09 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Bone Pathologies and Treatment
Hosts Du Xiaoyu
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology
How Cells Feel Force: Decoding Mechanosensitive Pathways Driving Musculoskeletal Disease
Mechanical overloading and overuse are major drivers of inflammation and musculoskeletal disease, yet the fundamental question of how cells sense and respond to mechanical overload remains largely unanswered. In this project, the student will tackle this open challenge by uncovering the mechanosensitive mechanisms activated in fibroblasts in response to mechanical stimulation. The project offers hands-on training in cutting-edge mechanobiology, combining functional calcium imaging with CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic perturbations, targeted mechanosensor screening approaches, and advanced proteomics analyses. By integrating these state-of-the-art techniques, the student will work at the interface of biomechanics, cell biology, and molecular signaling, with the opportunity to generate discoveries that are directly relevant to musculoskeletal disease mechanisms. This project is ideally suited for highly motivated students interested in the musculoskeletal system, mechanobiology, molecular biology, and translational research, and provides an excellent platform to develop interdisciplinary skills and contribute to a rapidly growing and impactful research field.
Keywords
Mechanobiology, Mechanotransduction, Mechanical overload, Fibroblasts, Calcium imaging, CRISPR/Cas9, Genetic perturbation, Proteomics, Musculoskeletal disease, Inflammation, Cell signaling, Force sensing
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2026-01-12 , Earliest start: 2025-12-15 , Latest end: 2026-06-01
Organization Snedeker Group / Laboratory for Orthopaedic Biomechanics
Hosts Passini Fabian
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Biology
Usability and Acceptability of a Generic Resilience Framework (SSRO Framework)
Resilience, defined as the capacity to withstand, recover from, or adapt to health-related challenges, is increasingly recognised as essential in modern medicine, yet its meaning and application remain inconsistent across disciplines. To bring clarity and support more coherent research and practice, we recently developed the SSRO Framework, which organises resilience studies around four elements: the Stressor, the System, Resilience resources and mechanisms, and the Outcomes of interest. We now aim to assess how clear, usable, and relevant this framework is to diverse communities, including clinicians, epidemiologists, physiologists, ageing researchers, and translational scientists.
Keywords
Resilience; SSRO Framework; Stressors; Adaptive capacity; Health systems; Clinical research; Translational science; Ageing; Epidemiology; Conceptual framework
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis , ETH Zurich (ETHZ)
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Published since: 2025-12-05 , Earliest start: 2026-01-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Neuromuscular Biomechanics
Hosts Ravi Deepak
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences
Spatial Proteomics of Mechanically-Driven Bone Healing
Bone healing is profoundly influenced by its mechanical environment. Advances in spatial proteomics now allow us to map protein expression within intact tissue and directly relate it to local biomechanical cues. The Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics is developing a new line of research within spatial mechanomics (DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp8496), integrating spatially resolved proteomic data with in silico models of the mechanical environment at fracture sites. This approach enables us to investigate, at cellular resolution, how mechanical forces shape protein-level signalling during bone repair.
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Bone, Mechanobiology, Spatial Proteomics, Protein Expression, Aging, Sex Differences, Mechanical Loading, Finite Element Modelling, Image Analysis
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Semester Project , Internship , Bachelor Thesis , Master Thesis
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Published since: 2025-11-23 , Earliest start: 2025-12-01 , Latest end: 2026-12-31
Organization Müller Group / Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics
Hosts Mathavan Neashan
Topics Medical and Health Sciences , Engineering and Technology , Biology
Laboratory for Bone Biomechanics (Prof. Ralph Müller)
Students with background in some of the following: musculoskeletal biomechanics, computational modelling, maths, physics, image analysis, machine learning background, ideally also a bit of programming (Python, Matlab)
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Internship , Lab Practice , ETH Amgen Scholars Program (ETHZ)
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Published since: , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2026-09-05
Organization Institute for Biomechanics
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Topics Engineering and Technology
Biomaterials Engineering Group (Prof.Xiao-Hua Qin)
Students with background in: Chemistry, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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Internship , Lab Practice , ETH Amgen Scholars Program (ETHZ)
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Published since: , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2026-09-05
Organization Institute for Biomechanics
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Topics Engineering and Technology
Laboratory for Movement Biomechanics (Prof. William Taylor)
Students with background in some of the following: musculoskeletal biomechanics, computational modelling, maths, physics, image analysis, machine learning background, ideally also a bit of programming (Python, Matlab)
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Internship , Lab Practice , ETH Amgen Scholars Program (ETHZ)
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Published since: , Earliest start: 2026-07-01 , Latest end: 2026-09-05
Organization Institute for Biomechanics
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Topics Medical and Health Sciences