Department of Mechanical Engineering

 

Department of Mechanical Engineering

 Department of Mechanical Engineering



Qualification Type:

PhD

Location:

Birmingham

Funding for:

UK Students, EU Students, International Students

Funding amount:

Funded

Hours:

Full Time


Placed On:

15th October 2024

Closes:

30th January 2025



Department of Mechanical Engineering

This PhD project aims to develop an innovative connected device and personalized multi-modal rehabilitation protocol to support recovery from unilateral spatial neglect (USN) in adult stroke patients. USN, a significant predictor of poor outcomes post-stroke, presents a major obstacle to rehabilitation. This project will leverage our deep scientific understanding of spatial neglect to design a device incorporating multi-sensory stimulation (visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, and gustatory) aimed at enhancing patients' spatial attention.

Using virtual reality (VR) technology, the device will deliver tailored visual and auditory stimuli that consider each patient's unique needs, preferences, and interests. A haptic glove system will provide tactile feedback, offering a comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation experience. The device will enable high-dose, intensive therapy, designed to be both practical and cost-effective. It will empower patients and their families to take an active role in their recovery, with significant potential benefits for both physical and mental health. Importantly, this device will be suitable for use in both home and clinical settings.



Candidate Requirements:

Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 or 1st-class degree (or equivalent) in an engineering discipline. While experience in rehabilitation and a Master’s degree in robotics or a related field are desirable, they are not essential.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Prof. Samia Nefti-Meziani at s.nefti-meziani@bham.ac.uk, and include your CV.




Funding Information:

This funded PhD position is available to both UK and international students. UK students will receive full funding, covering tuition fees and a living stipend. International students will have their tuition fees reduced to £8000, but will not receive a stipend, so they will need to cover their living expenses.

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