A fully funded Ph.D. position is available at Rombolabs.
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ROMBOLABS
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Rombolabs is part of the VA Center for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering and affiliated with the University of Washington in Seattle. We are developing sensing and control for robots and advanced prosthetic limbs. Projects in the lab include biomechanics studies, human-machine interface, “neurobotics,” virtual reality for sensorimotor neuroscience, and optimal control / machine learning. Email rombokas@uw.edu, include a resume / CV, and specify which position you are interested in.
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RESEARCH TOPIC: SENSORY FEEDBACK
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We are developing a sensory feedback system for lower extremity amputees. Tomorrow’s prosthetic limbs will not just be advanced robots, but they will also replace sensory capabilities. Our system will measure forces at the prosthetic foot, and deliver task-relevant feedback to the user. We will use noninvasive tactile / vibrotactile feedback for people having Targeted Reinnervation surgery. For people experiencing sensory transfer as a result of this surgery, touches on the skin of residual limb feel as if they originate from the amputated limb. The funded project will focus on stair descent, but we are exploring the general goal of improving the kinesthetic experience of using prosthetic limbs.
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ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
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* Design sensors for detecting foot placement, forces and pressures, etc, from the prosthetic lower extremity during use.
* Translate foot events to functionally-useful cues to the user
* Adapt or create tactors (sensory stimulation devices) for providing sensory stimulation to the user
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TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
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* Embedded systems for sensor data acquisition and driving tactile stimulation
* Psychophysics and haptics familiarity a plus
* Systems engineering and software familiarity (C, python, java, simulink, ROS, etc)
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EXPERIENCE
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* BS or MS in relevant field
* Track record of completed mechatronic projects
