Tuition fee €12,449 per year

Part-time studies (6-year) 8 229,00

Application fee €100 one-time
More information

vilniustech.lt/..l-engineering/6581?lang=2 

Overview

PhD candidate position in Research and Development of VR-based system for Psychological and Cognitive Rehabilitation

Open application for a doctoral candidate in Mechanical Engineering
The doctoral candidate position is available in the Faculty of Mechanics, Department of Biomechanical Engineering. Applicants interested in other research topics related to Biomedical Engineering are also welcome to apply.

Research topic description
The global prevalence of conditions like dementia, stroke, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and Parkinson’s disease is rapidly increasing due to ageing populations and modern stressors. Traditional rehabilitation methods are often expensive, time-consuming, and lack personalized adaptability. By 2050, the number of people living with dementia worldwide is projected to triple, requiring innovative solutions for care and rehabilitation. Disorders like PTSD and anxiety affect millions globally, and creative, accessible solutions are urgently needed. Advances in biomedical sensors, neuroplasticity research, and biofeedback systems are critical to creating personalized and effective Virtual Reality (VR) interventions. This field enables the integration of physiological monitoring to optimize treatment. VR rehabilitation requires precise motion tracking, ergonomic haptic devices, and wearable technologies that depend on an engineering approach.
This research focuses on developing a VR system tailored for psychological and cognitive rehabilitation, leveraging biomedical and mechanical engineering principles. The study aims to design, implement, and evaluate an advanced VR framework that integrates biofeedback, haptic interfaces, and real-time subject monitoring to address neurological and psychological disorders.

The selected candidate will work on the PhD thesis under the supervision of Prof. Dr Kristina Daunoravičienė. The successful applicant will have to attend scientific conferences, meetings and internships at the other universities.

Requirements
• Required background: Candidates should have a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. An academic foundation in neuroscience, cognitive science, or psychology is also beneficial if combined with technical engineering experience. Prior exposure to rehabilitation technologies or healthcare applications will be advantageous.
• Expected skills and knowledge: Candidates should have experience in biosignal monitoring (e.g. EEG, EMG, heart rate sensors), motion tracking, and sensor integration. Familiarity with VR development platforms (e.g. Unity, Unreal Engine) and programming languages would be beneficial. Knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning for adaptive systems is desirable. Strong interdisciplinary collaboration, data analysis skills, and the ability to design ergonomic healthcare devices are also expected.

It is a prerequisite you can be present at and accessible to the institution daily.

For more information
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. The position may not be opened if no qualified candidate is found. Additional information regarding the post may be obtained from Prof. Dr Kristina Daunoravičienė, e-mail: kristina.daunoraviciene@vilniustech.lt

Programme structure

The PhD programme consists of:
· Independent research under supervision;
· Courses for PhD students (approximately 30 ECTS credits);
· Participation in research networks, including placements at other, primarily foreign, research institutions;
· Teaching or another form of knowledge dissemination, which is related to the PhD topic when possible;
· The completion of a PhD thesis.

Apply now! Fall semester 2025/26
Application deadline
26 May 2025, 23:59:59
Eastern European Time
Studies commence
2 Sept 2025
Apply now! Fall semester 2025/26
Application deadline
26 May 2025, 23:59:59
Eastern European Time
Studies commence
2 Sept 2025