Student project: Exploration and Optimization of Selective Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

*Important for non-EU students: You'll need to be registered at a Dutch university to meet immigration requirements.

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) connects the central nervous system (CNS) to organs, muscles, and skin, enabling bi-directional communication that influences overall body function. There is growing interest in peripheral nerve stimulation as an alternative or complement to medication for conditions like epilepsy, pain, depression, and chronic inflammatory diseases. A key challenge is achieving closed-loop interventions, where stimulation is dynamically adapted based on real-time feedback from neural activity or end-organ responses, improving selectivity and minimizing side effects.

At imec, a neuromodulation framework has been developed to stimulate neural tissue in vivo and record direct neural responses, supporting closed-loop operation. This system is used in both simple (earthworm) and large (pig, rat) animal models. Additionally, we employ advanced computational models and data analytics platforms that enable exploration and optimization of complex stimulation paradigms, including multi-contact electrodes and adaptive control algorithms for selective nerve activation.
This project focuses on the deployment of computational models to design selective PNS methods and electrodes.

What you will do

• Review relevant literature and become familiar with computational models.
• Design and conduct finite element model computer simulations to optimize stimulation strategies, electrode configurations in multi-contact cuff electrodes and implement/test closed-loop frameworks.
• Deploy neuronal computational models to analyze neural responses (action potentials, eCAPs) and adapt stimulation parameters.
• Document findings and, depending on results, contribute to scientific publications.

What we do for you

• You will be working on state-of-the-art technology and tools for stimulation of peripheral nerves that can be deployed to improve efficacy of neuromodulation treatments in the healthcare domain.
• You will be working in an inspiring high-tech environment, located within the Holst Centre in Eindhoven, and part of the larger IMEC organization, world-leader in R&D on nanotechnology and electronics.
• You will receive support from experienced researchers having diverse backgrounds relevant for the execution of the project.
• You will be a member of our multi-disciplinary team of researchers, engineers and innovators, and will be offered an opportunity to contribute to our ambitious aims in making real impact on actual healthcare needs.

Who you are

Modeling & Computational Expertise

• Have good programming skills in python/Matlab.
• Have signal processing skills and experience, preferably processing of bio-signals.
• Ability to translate simulation results into experimental protocols and setups.
• Experience with FEM platforms such as COMSOL or neural simulation frameworks such as Neuron is a plus.
• Skilled in developing and implementing algorithms for closed-loop stimulation parameter optimization is a plus.

General Qualifications

• Excellent MSc student in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent.
• Entitled to do an internship in The Netherlands (EU nationality and/or currently studying at a Dutch university).
• Available for 9 months or longer.
• Eager to take ownership of the project, with a structured and independent working style.
• Good command of spoken and written English.

Interested

Does this position sound like an interesting next step in your career at imec? Don’t hesitate to submit your application by clicking on ‘APPLY’.
Should you have more questions about the job, you can contact jobs@imec.nl.