Design4Health

The programme brings together training in innovation and entrepreneurship in a real life clinical setting at UZ Leuven following the Biodesign methodology.

Biodesign was developed by Stanford University and is now a global phenomenon leading to successful healthcare innovations around the world.

Design4Health is recruiting enthusiastic individuals to form two interdisciplinary teams. The teams will receive an extensive introduction to the biodesign methodology before starting a two-week full time clinical immersion to observe needs in the operating theaters or rehabilitation department of UZ Leuven. Each team then selects the most urgent need to develop a solution with market potential by the end of the project. Teams are coached by experts in areas such as innovation, biodesign, healthcare management and engineering and they will experience a full innovation cycle from need to implementation.

Candidate profile

Candidates are highly motivated to help shape the future of healthcare and are open to learning about efficient innovation processes. Candidates preferably have professional experience with innovation projects, excellent communication and collaboration skills and a proven track record of teamwork.

In practical terms, candidates must have a good knowledge of English and Dutch and be available for an introduction course from 3 to 6 July 2023, a two-week full time clinical immersion between 4 and 22 September 2023, and subsequent coaching sessions and time to work on an innovative solution ready for presentation by end of Q1 2024.

Finances & commitment

The programme is offered free of charge to the selected participants, who only need to cover costs for study materials, transport to and from Leuven and meals. The project is designed to allow for a combination with a full time occupation/job but does require great flexibility from the participants’ employers and family. The project partners do expect a commitment to complete the project.

How to apply?

You will be asked to fill in an online form as well as submit your motivation letter and curriculum vitae in English.

Eligible candidates must possess at least 3 of the criteria listed below and motivate all of the criteria in a motivation letter:

• A relevant background (advanced degree and/or professional experience), especially in medicine, business, engineering or design

• Demonstrate entrepreneurial aspirations or proven experience with innovation

• Be available throughout the project including during the two-week clinical immersion (for which precise dates will be communicated before the selection is finalised)

• Speak and write English and Dutch fluently

• Have a proven track record of teamwork

Deadline for applications: 19 June 2023 at noon.

For more information, please contact design4healthleuven@gmail.com