The ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research is a multidisciplinary research center at the University of Bern developing medical technology solutions from basic research to clinical applications.
Every year, millions of people undergo refractive surgery to correct their vision, yet outcomes remain unpredictable for patients with complex corneal conditions. Join us in developing AI-powered tools that could revolutionize how we plan and predict surgical outcomes for patients with severe visual impairment.
About the project The Computational Bioengineering Group invites applications for a 3-4 year PhD position in machine learning and ocular biomechanics. You will develop patient-specific biomechanical models of the cornea integrated with machine learning to understand how corneal biomechanics influence visual outcomes and support prediction, treatment, and planning of refractive interventions for patients with severe visual impairment.
This SNSF-funded project is conducted jointly with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), the University of Basel (unibas), and Bern University Hospital (Inselspital). The candidate will work closely with engineers, clinicians, and data scientists in a strong translational research environment. Research environment The develops experimental and computational methods in biomechanics to address clinically relevant problems. The group combines finite element modeling, medical image analysis, experimental tissue characterization, and data-driven methods to develop new diagnostic approaches, support surgical planning, and contribute to the design of medical technologies. Tasks and responsibilities
1. Develop medical image analysis tools for patient-specific finite element modeling
2. Quantify biomechanical impact of surgical treatments on visual outcomes
3. Design machine learning methods to accelerate simulations and predict outcomes
4. Identify optimal treatment strategies from preoperative data
Required qualifications
5. Master's degree in computer science, engineering, or applied mathematics
6. Experience in computer vision and machine learning
7. Solid Python programming for machine learning
8. Background in mechanics and computational methods
9. Finite element analysis experience (strong asset)
10. Working in a medical regulatory environment would be a strong advantage
11. Strong English communication skills
What we offer
12. International environment in a leading biomedical engineering center
13. Close clinical interaction with real-world data access
14. Multidisciplinary team expertise (biomechanics, ML, clinical research)
15. Publication and conference opportunities in high-impact venues
16. Competitive SNSF salary with Swiss social benefits
17. Free German language courses
Application procedure
Interested candidates should submit the following documents electronically to Prof. Philippe Büchler, philippe.buechler@unibe.ch
18. Curriculum vitae, including contact details of references
19. Motivation letter describing research interests and career goals
20. Abstract of the Master's thesis
21. Academic transcripts
Application deadline: February 15, 2026 | Starting date: May /June 2026