Master internship in Airway Simulation Model Development

Description Within the Erasmus MC Innovation Lab and 3D Lab, an initial concept has already been developed for a modular difficult-airway training head. The proposed system consists of a reusable training platform with interchangeable airway modules that can simulate a variety of airway scenarios. The next development step focuses specifically on creating highly realistic cricothyrotomy and tracheostomy training inserts.

AI-generated content may be incorrect. The Technical Medicine student will investigate which aspects need to be developed or improved. This includes evaluating current training methods and identifying clinical requirements in collaboration with airway experts, and building upon the initial prototype.

Particular attention should be given to recreating the tactile and procedural experience to an appropriate level for each step of the actual medical procedure. The project should also explore how the model can be integrated into existing difficult-airway management training programs and into IC tracheostomy placement.

The Outcome Of This Project Could Contribute To Safer, More Accessible, And More Sustainable Airway Training, Ultimately Improving Preparedness And Performance Of Healthcare Professionals Confronted With Emergency Airway Situations. For This Internship, We Would Like The Student To

• Analyze current cricothyrotomy training methods and identify clinical and educational requirements;
• Translate user requirements into design specifications for modular training inserts;
• Develop and prototype one or more realistic cricothyrotomy models using suitable materials and manufacturing techniques;
• Evaluate and verify anatomical realism using real anatomical imaging;
• Evaluate usability and educational value together with clinical experts;
• Deliver a prototype and recommendations for future implementation within airway management training programs.

The project description reflects a broader development trajectory; the internship will focus on a well-defined subset that can be realistically completed within the available timeframe.

Work environment The project is a collaboration between the Innovation Lab and the 3D Lab of the Erasmus MC, in close cooperation with the Department of Anesthesiology. Erasmus MC is a leading academic medical center with a strong focus on innovation, simulation-based education, and the development of advanced medical technologies. The Innovation Lab and 3D Lab support clinicians in translating clinical challenges into practical solutions through software and hardware design, prototyping, simulation, and additive manufacturing.

Emergency cricothyrotomy is a rare but critical life-saving procedure that is performed in a “cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate” (CICO) situation. Although the procedure is infrequently required in clinical practice, successful execution is highly dependent on adequate training and realistic simulation. For an ICU patient who has difficulty breathing after prolonged intubation and ventilation, they may need a temporary tracheostomy to bridge the gap between fully automated ventilation (with a tube) and regaining muscle strength for self-ventilation.

Current training methods often rely on animal tissue, human specimens, or simplified synthetic models. While animal and human tissue may provide realistic tactile feedback, they are associated with several limitations, including logistical complexity, costs, limited availability, ethical considerations, hygiene requirements, and potential biological contamination risks. Synthetic models are generally easier to use but often fail to accurately reproduce the anatomy, tissue layers, and procedural realism encountered in actual emergency situations. Thus, there is need for a realistic and sustainable solution.

This project combines clinical expertise with technical innovation and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation medical simulation models. The student will work in a multidisciplinary environment involving anesthesiologists, medical educators, engineers, technical physicians and 3D-design specialists. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality, accessibility, and realism of training for rare but life-saving IC-related airway procedures.

Qualifications And Skills As this intern you:

• Are a Master's student in Biomedical Engineering, Technical Medicine, Industrial Design Engineering (Medisign) or a related field.
• Have an interest in medical simulation, training, and healthcare innovation.
• Enjoy translating clinical needs into practical design solutions.
• Are a proactive and curious learner.
• Are a strong communicator and enjoy working in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Terms

• A temporary internship contract for 3-6 months. 28-36 hours in a week.
• Hands-on experience working in a dynamic and impactful field.
• Flexible working hours and the possibility of remote work.

More information Applying is easy via the application button.

For questions about the internship or the application procedure, please contact Anna Ooms (Clinical Technician) via [email protected].