진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

Description of the research subject

This postdoctoral position is part of the ANR e-Walking project, which aims to develop a portable gait assistance technology using functional electrical stimulation (FES) of muscles to improve balance and propulsion in older adults. Aging is associated with a decline in the propulsive function of the ankle plantar flexor muscles, leading to reduced propulsion capacity, increased instability, and a higher energetic cost of walking. To address this, the project proposes using FES to compensate for this muscular weakness, adapting stimulation to walking conditions such as speed, slope, and fatigue. This innovative and non-invasive approach could help prevent falls, promote mobility, and support physical activity in aging populations.

The task 2.3 of the project focuses on better understanding the effects of FES on maximal force production during walking, depending on speed, slope, and fatigue. To this end, an isokinetic instrumented cart has been developed to measure force production during gait. The objective is to study and model the Force–Velocity–Endurance relationship of the lower limbs during walking, as a function of stimulation parameters (intensity, duration, frequency), in order to optimize force generation under varying walking conditions (speed, slope, and fatigue).

Planning research project

The project will begin in 2025 and will run for one year. Initially, the postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for developing and validating the force production measurement test using the instrumented cart, as well as for modeling the Force–Velocity–Endurance relationship. In a second phase, the researcher will investigate the effects of FES stimulation parameters on the Force–Velocity–Endurance relationship of the lower limbs during walking. Finally, the results of the study will be disseminated through the writing and submission of a scientific article.

Assigned activities and expected results

The selected candidate will be responsible for:
- Developing and validating the force production measurement test during walking using the instrumented cart.
- Ensuring proper operation of the equipment in collaboration with the engineer at the MIP laboratory.
- Modeling the Force–Velocity–Endurance relationship and extracting key parameters.
- Preparing the study protocol and submitting it to the local ethics committee.
- Recruiting 20 healthy young participants to take part in the study.
- Designing the experimental protocol and investigating the effects of FES settings on the Force–Velocity–Endurance relationship of the lower limbs during walking.
- Processing biomechanical data
- Publishing the study results in a peer-reviewed international journal.
- Collaborating with e-Walking project partners, presenting project progress, and contributing to meetings and reports.

To apply for this position, please consult the job description by clicking on this link

The application must include the following documents :

• Detailed curriculum vitae
• Cover letter
• Doctoral degree
• Conference and journal papers
  

Applications must be sent to Nicolas Peyrot by July 4, 2025 to the following address : nicolas.peyrot@univ-lemans.fr