MASTER'S PROJECT

MASTER’S PROJECT

NeuroRestore is a research and innovation center spanning EPFL and the University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) that develops and applies medical therapies aimed to restore neurological functions. We integrate implantable neurotechnologies with innovative treatments developed through rigorous preclinical and clinical studies. These developments have led to breakthroughs for the treatment of paraplegia, tetraplegia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries. By working with our network of vibrant high-tech start-ups and established medical technology companies, we are committed to validate our medical therapy concepts and see them used every day in rehabilitation clinics worldwide.

Robotic Platform for Lower Limb Experiments in Mice

To assess, evaluate and quantify improvements in motor function, robotic platforms are essential. A robotic platform has been developed previously with incomplete aspects that need to be taken into account.

The main goal of this project is to finish the robotic platform and to fine tune the system to allow proper training with rats and mice.

In terms of practical work, the student will perform :

  • Software implementation and optimization to control motors, deal with the communication between all the components, show data in real time and interact with user input through a touchscreen and save this data for future analysis.

  • Electronics: assemble different electronic components and modify, repair or create some parts, if needed.

  • Mechanics: modify, repair or create some parts if needed.

This project will challenge you in various aspects of device development and prototyping, including the design of mechanical and electronic parts, manufacturing and assembling them using 3D printers and other classical manufacturing processes, programming the control of the robot and the communication of the different robot parts.

The project will conclude with animal experiments to validate the robot (in collaboration with the supervisor).

Throughout the project, the student will gain a deep understanding of electrical spinal cord stimulation, neurological recovery, as well as skills in electromechanical design, prototyping and programming. Ultimately, the master student will contribute to the scientific community's understanding of the effect of electrical stimulation on the spinal cord.

Preferred skills:

  • Programming skills in: Python, C/C++, Matlab and/or Java

  • Electromechanical prototyping experience

  • 3D design using: SolidWorks, Catia, Creo PTC (or similar)

  • 3D printing experience

  • Previous rodent animal work or be able to work with animals

Preferred starting date: As soon as possible

Location: G-lab / UPCourtine (Campus Biotech - Geneva)

Contact:Victor Perez Puchalt: victor.perezpuchalt@epfl.ch

Jimmy Ravier