Design and fabrication custom foot orthotics

Orthotic insoles are special inserts that are placed inside shoes to provide support and cushioning for the feet. They are clinically proven to drastically improve and alleviate conditions such as foot pain, plantar fasciitis, and flat feet.

This PhD research project is a collaborative research study between academic and industrial leads and seeks to develop an innovative personalised insole which can enhance comfort and functionality through an effective foot plantar pressure redistribution.

The PhD student will develop and test an automated mass customisation pipeline for the design and manufacture of patient specific insoles. This can be represented in three work phases: patient data collection, automated construction of customised insole CAD model and insole fabrication and testing.

The Wolfson School provides a prestigious and inclusive environment for research, with a thriving doctoral community. Renowned for impactful research with global benefits, we rank 62nd worldwide in Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering (QS 2023). 

PhD students at Wolfson receive generous additional funds to support individual development, including travel, attending conferences, and training programs.

The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has seen 100% of its research impact rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Abolfazl Zahedi

Secondary supervisor: Vadim Silberschmidt

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in engineering or a related subject.

For all applicants, a relevant master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: mechanical engineering, biomechanical engineering, computer sciences and/or related subjects. Experience and/or interest in programming, machine learning/AI is desirable.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering’. Please quote the advertised reference number SA24-UF-AZ in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please submit the minimum supporting documents.

Apply now