Research Assistant in Medical Robotics - Intelligent Robotic Framework for Autonomous Bronchoalveolar Lavage

Research Assistant in Medical Robotics - Intelligent Robotic Framework for Autonomous Bronchoalveolar Lavage

SDU - University of Southern Denmark

Odense, Denmark

Project description

We are currently extending our team working on the ARBAL project which focuses on developing a fully automated robotic bronchoscopy system for Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) guided by artificial intelligence. ARBAL will deliver expert-level precision and consistency, reduce waiting times, and improve outcomes by enabling earlier diagnoses of lung infections.

Currently, BAL is performed manually under image guidance. Navigating the lung’s complex, maze-like anatomy is especially challenging for less experienced bronchoscopists, often leading to missed segments or unnecessary exploration for fluid collection. With increasing demand and limited specialist availability, there is a critical need for new technologies that ensure both precision and accessibility of BAL.

This project focuses on the development of a comprehensive framework for controlling a robotic bronchoscopy system equipped with a commercial bronchoscope. The objective is to enable autonomous navigation through up to three bronchial generations and reliably reach predefined anatomical targets specified for BAL, guided by real-time interpretation of endoscopic video. Achieving this requires the integration of advanced medical image analysis for scene understanding with intelligent robotic control strategies that ensure accurate path following while maintaining safe distances from the airway walls.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing artificial intelligence methods for real-time interpretation of bronchoscopy video, as well as designing and implementing a closed-loop robotic control system for autonomous navigation. In addition, the candidate will contribute to dataset acquisition and work closely with clinical experts within the ARBAL consortium to validate the proposed solutions in realistic and clinically relevant scenarios.

Profile and requirements

The candidate will participate in SDU Robotics’ comprehensive research and teaching activities within the area of robotics. The position requires a master’s degree (equivalent to a Danish master’s degree) within a relevant Robotics, Biomedical, or a similar field and the candidate is expected to have a profound knowledge on most of the following topics:

• Deep Learning;
• Medical imaging;
• Robot control.

Preferably, the candidate has experience with:

• Robotic simulation tools;
• Medical applications;
• Sensors and actuators;
• Scientific writing and presentation.

Furthermore, the successful candidate is expected to:

• Have excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken);
• Have high self-motivation to learn;
• Be able to work well and communicate expert knowledge in an interdisciplinary team;
• Have the ability of working independently;
• Have a strong sense of responsibility.