Q & A with Ed
I don’t know if you’ve heard, but we are starting a new project, and we are hiring a postdoc! To help potential applicants decide to apply, I did a short interview with the principal investigator Dr. Ed Chadwick. I bribed him with a cup of tea and a biscuit.
What’s this project about?
In this project, we are developing technology to help people move their arms again after high-level spinal cord injury.
We will be using a technology called Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), which provides stimulation to muscles artificially to make them contract and produce movement. If we stimulate muscles in the right sequence and intensity, we can produce functional movement.
FES is a great technology, but it is not enough on its own, especially if muscles are weak after years of non-use. So we will combine it with additional technologies such as arm supports or orthotic devices.
Since every individual is different, we will use computer modelling* to help us decide the best combination of technologies for each person.
What’s the best thing about the project?
I am excited by the prospect of helping people who have very limited treatment options at the moment. For me, the best thing about the project is the combination of high-tech computer modelling and working with people. We have great clinical partners in the Orthotic Research & Locomotor Assessment Unit at The Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, and the Charterhouse Rehabilitation Technologies Laboratory at the University of Leeds. I am looking forward to working with them on this!
What are you looking for in a postdoc?
I am looking for someone who is inspired by the possibilities of the technology, and excited about helping to improve the lives of people with disabilities. They should work well with the rest of the team, and have an inquisitive, problem-solving attitude. Attitude is more important than experience, as we will train them on our modelling methods.
Where is Keele University?
Well, it’s not in Germany! It is in the heart of England. Our nearest city is Stoke-on-Trent, and we are a little over half an hour by train to Manchester, and an hour and a half to London.
Why would anyone want to move here?
It is a small, friendly place. It may not have all the attractions of the big city, but Manchester is close enough to offer that. It is safe, and the cost of living is affordable. There is also lots of lovely countryside nearby, such as the Peak District and the Shropshire Hills.
Finally, how’s the tea?
Lovely, thank you.
Was this helpful? If you have questions about the project, do get in touch with Ed! We look forward to receiving your application :)
*We also use computer modelling in the design of controllers for arm prosthetics. If you’d like to know more about that, have a look here.
