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
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
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