Master’s Thesis Position: Predictive computational modelling for transcranial magnetic stimulation

Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Electromagnetics in health technologies group, is looking for Master thesis worker in the topic described below. The position is especially well suited for students wishing to continue to doctoral studies.

Description

The activity of brain neurones can be manipulated by applying a strong magnetic field to the head. This transcranial magnetic stimulation can be used for both studying brain function and as a potential treatment for several brain disorders. However, the exact mechanisms of action in the brain for this method are still unclear.
 

The MSc thesis will be a part of a research project funded by the Research Council of Finland (RCF). The MSc thesis worker will work in a research team to develop novel computational methods based on brain imaging to create precise models of the effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation on the brain. The ability of the models to predict measurable electrical responses in individuals will be investigated through experimental methods, which the MSc thesis worker can also participate in.
 

The main tasks of the MSc worker are to participate in the development an automated computational software package that will take MRI data as an input and will allow personalized simulation of the induced electric fields in the brain and electrical excitation of white matter tracts. To develop the toolbox, we will use methods and algorithms already developed by us, our collaborators, and others as the starting point.
 

The expected result of the main RCF project is an openly available and validated prediction model, allowing brain researchers and doctors to target stimulation exactly where it is desired. This may make brain stimulation therapies a safe and more efficient means of detecting and treating brain disorders. If the MSc project succesful, the MSc thesis worker will have a chance to continue to doctoral studies and be a part of a research team aiming for a paradigm shift in neuromodulation.
 

Qualifications

• Only master students at Aalto University can apply. We prefer students from the master programmes of Health Technology Engineering, Life Science Technologies, and Automation and Electrical Engineering, but others are also welcome.

• We expect that the candidate has good programming and mathematical skills and knowledge of electromagnetic field theory

• Knowledge in MATLAB, finite-element method, statistics, brain sciences, and medical image processing are considered as advantages

• Candidates with potential and willingness to continue to doctoral studies are especially welcome

• Good command of English is required. Command of the national languages are advantages but not required.
   

Schedule

The earliest start date is 1.12.2024. The duration of the work is six months, with the possibility to continue to doctoral studies after a successful thesis work.
 

What we offer

The salary is approximately 2500 €/month (gross). We offer a wide range of staff benefits, such as occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities on campus and several restaurants and cafés on campus with staff discounts. The position is located at the Aalto University Otaniemi campus which can be easily reached by public transport.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 30.11.2024, but candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. We will go through applications and may invite suitable candidates to interview already during the application period. Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period, reopen the application process, and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

To apply, please send your application including the following attachments (only in PDF format, in English, Finnish, or Swedish):

• A letter of motivation describing your interests and why you think you would be the right person to conduct the research (max. 1 page)

• Your CV

• Your latest transcript of records from Aalto University
   

For more information, please contact Professor Ilkka Laakso ([email protected]).

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