Projects
Our research
We create computer models of the human musculoskeletal system to better understand and optimize movement. By combining advanced measurement techniques with computational modeling and simulation, we explore how muscles, bones, and tendons work together to produce motion. From elite athletes to frail older adults, our work spans a wide range of people, which is why we focus on moving beyond “one-size-fits-all” models. By collecting experimental data and building a growing database of body types, we aim to create more diverse models that reflect the full spectrum of human bodies.
See below for a selection of our current and previous research
Current projects
Diversity Outside In
ERC Starting Grant – EU (2026 – 2031)
In this ERC project, we are conducting large-scale data collection of musculoskeletal properties to improve the accuracy, diversity, and personalization of musculoskeletal models.
Our focus is on capturing variability across populations, with particular attention to demographic differences in muscle parameters and bone geometry.
soon more
Breaking BIASmechanics
NWO Vidi – the Netherlands (2026 – 2031)
The VIDI Project develops accurate musculoskeletal modeling technology for real-world use beyond the lab. We focus especially on improving model accuracy for women, who have been underrepresented in biomechanical models.
Care is Coming Home
NWO Perspectief – the Netherlands (2026 – 2031)
Soon more
SESAME
Smart Electrical Stimulation and Musculoskeletal re-Education following injury – EU Eurostars (2023 – 2027)
We are advancing and validating BioStim, a technology for musculoskeletal rehabilitation in patients and athletes. The system integrates motion sensing, AI, and electrical stimulation, originally developed for patients recovering from ACL reconstruction. We are adapting BioStim for elite athletes recovering from sports injuries. Prototypes are being tested in collaboration with the Royal Dutch Football Association.
Research portfolios
Neuromuscular simulations
Development and validation of realistic neuromuscular controllers based on generic neural pathways to simulate full body movements in daily life activities.
Age-related movement adaptations
Study how humans develop compensation strategies to deal with reductions in physical capacity, sensory systems, and altered reinforcement schemes.
Personalized models in clinic and sports
Development and validation of an automatic pipeline to generate subject-specific musculoskeletal models from optical 3D surface scans.
Remote movement guidance
Design of a light-weight wearable haptic interface that guide users during physical exercise using an illusory pulling sensation.
Wearable rehabilitation
Design and validation of wearable textile based sensors and actuator for rehabilitation after injury.
Optimizing speed skating technique
Combining predictive simulations with innovative motion capture techniques to optimize speed skating technique.