PhD Studentship: Multi-sensor characterisation of human motion

The project will explore in how far a combination of marker-based and inertial sensor systems can provide access to key discriminative characteristics of human motion which could not be identified using either sensor system in isolation.  

Here we will utilise our algorithms for the accurate and robust identification of joint centres and axes from motion data, which are commercially available for use in a marker-based motion capture system (Vicon, Oxford UK). The extension of the underlying approaches for use with inertial measurement units (IMUs) and the integration of information across sensor systems, many joints, and throughout time will be core challenges to be addressed here.  

The development of a sound mathematical framework together with its application to pilot data sets are expected to open up exciting new application areas for either system in humans but also further novel industrial applications.  

Candidates should have a sound background in mathematics and programming with a strong desire to work on solving challenging biomedical engineering problems in an interdisciplinary team of like-minded persons. They will have access to our network of national and international scientific collaborators e.g. through the Arthritis Research UK Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis.  

Importantly, the position also offers the opportunity for joint research and work placements with our industrial partner (Vicon, Oxford UK).  

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof. Dr. Markus Heller, Bioengineering science research group, Email: m.o.heller@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 4909.

 

Funding and Eligibility

This project is in competition with others for funding; the projects which receive the best applicants will be awarded a full studentship. This 3 year studentship covers home-rate tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the standard EPSRC rate, which is £14,777 for 2018/19.

The funding is only available to UK citizens or EU citizens who have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the studentship and not mainly for the purpose of receiving full-time education. For further guidance on funding, please contact PGRapply.FEE@soton.ac.uk

 

How to Apply

Click here to apply and select the programme - PhD in Engineering and the Environment. Please enter the title of the PhD Studentship in the application form.