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Modelling cell deformation in ventricular assist devices
Here, we are looking for a mechanical engineering student interested in computational modelling. In this project, the student shall work on a multiscale framework linking macroscale computational fluid dynamics and microscale cell deformation to model blood cell deformations in artificial hearts.
Heart failure is a global public health issue and many patients with end-stage heart failure would require transplantation. Due to the shortage of donor hearts, ventricular assist devices (VAD) are often the therapy of choice.
Even though such devices greatly improve patient outcome compared to no therapy, there are still many unresolved problems. One of them is mechanically induced blood damage due to high shear stresses acting on cells within the VAD. In order to predict potential hemocompatibility, computational fluid dynamics simulations (CFD) are often pursued. While these simulations can predict macroscopic flow features and stresses, they are not yet capable to model the deformation of single blood cells, which would be of great interest to understand and predict mechanically induced damage. To achieve this, we are coupling macroscale CFD models with microscale cell deformation models.
Heart failure is a global public health issue and many patients with end-stage heart failure would require transplantation. Due to the shortage of donor hearts, ventricular assist devices (VAD) are often the therapy of choice.
Even though such devices greatly improve patient outcome compared to no therapy, there are still many unresolved problems. One of them is mechanically induced blood damage due to high shear stresses acting on cells within the VAD. In order to predict potential hemocompatibility, computational fluid dynamics simulations (CFD) are often pursued. While these simulations can predict macroscopic flow features and stresses, they are not yet capable to model the deformation of single blood cells, which would be of great interest to understand and predict mechanically induced damage. To achieve this, we are coupling macroscale CFD models with microscale cell deformation models.
In this thesis, the student shall work on our existing framework to model single cell deformation. Specifically, he or she shall bring our model to the next level by working on the validation of our deformation and strain models, using existing experimental data of cells deforming in microchannels.
In this thesis, the student shall work on our existing framework to model single cell deformation. Specifically, he or she shall bring our model to the next level by working on the validation of our deformation and strain models, using existing experimental data of cells deforming in microchannels.
- a strong interest in computational work - previous programming experience is a plus - interest in working in an interdisciplinary team - communication and collaboration skills
This project is a collaboration between pd|z and the Interface group. We offer a stimulating environment, experienced supervision and outstanding computational infrastructure.
This project is a collaboration between pd|z and the Interface group. We offer a stimulating environment, experienced supervision and outstanding computational infrastructure.
Zurich Heart www.interfacegroup.ch
Please do not hesitate to contact Lena Wiegmann (lena.wiegmann@uzh.ch / wieggma@ethz.ch)
Please do not hesitate to contact Lena Wiegmann (lena.wiegmann@uzh.ch / wieggma@ethz.ch)
Each year the IDEA League offers the students of its partner universities over 180 monthly grants for a short-term research exchange. In general, these grants are awarded based on academic merit. For more information visit http://idealeague.org/student-grant/