Validation and functional claim support for an ergonomic / posture-support device - ON-1158

Project type: Research
Desired discipline(s): Engineering - biomedical, Engineering, Engineering - mechanical, Kinesiology, Life Sciences
Company: PostuLift Health Inc.
Project Length: 4 to 6 months
Preferred start date: 03/01/2026
Language requirement: English
Location(s): Toronto, ON, Canada
No. of positions: 1
Desired education level: PhD
Open to applicants registered at an institution outside of Canada: No

About the company: 

PostuLift aims to empower desk workers around the world to live healthier, more active lives through accessible and uplifting posture-support innovations. PostuLift is solving a widespread problem- poor desk posture. PostuLift is bringing to market a device designed to improve one's sense of alignment, confidence and movement after long desk hours with just 15 minutes of daily use. PostuLift was born out of the 10+ years the founder Ellie spent working as a physio; as she saw firsthand the effects of poor desk posture on her client’s wellbeing and function.

Describe the project.: 

The main goal of the company is to develop an evidence-based, user-centred posture support product that measurably improves spinal alignment, reduces musculoskeletal discomfort, and enhances daily functional performance for desk-based workers. Our focus is on translating clinical and biomechanical principles into an accessible consumer device that can be used outside of traditional physiotherapy settings.
The company aims to bridge the gap between clinical best practices and everyday behaviour by creating a product that supports healthy posture, encourages movement, and reduces the physical strain associated with prolonged sitting. To achieve this, we combine physiotherapy expertise, ergonomic design, and iterative prototyping informed by user testing and research partnerships.
This research project will help the company build the scientific foundation needed to validate the product’s functional performance, safety, and usability. The results will guide refinement of the device’s mechanical design, inform evidence-based claims, and ensure the product meets user needs across different body types and working environments. The study outcomes will also support future regulatory positioning, commercialization pathways, and long-term product development.
Ultimately, the company’s goal is to deliver a final product that is clinically informed, manufacturable at scale, and supported by credible research demonstrating its effectiveness. The knowledge generated through this research partnership will strengthen the company’s R&D strategy, accelerate product maturation, and contribute to innovation within the posture, ergonomics, and musculoskeletal wellness space.

Required expertise/skills: 

The project requires expertise in human biomechanics, rehabilitation science, or biomedical engineering, with strong skills in experimental study design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
Experience in clinical or lab-based human participant research, including ethical approvals, participant recruitment, and safety protocols, is essential. The ideal candidate has a track record of independent research, critical thinking, and scientific writing, capable of analyzing complex datasets and interpreting results for evidence-based product validation.
Optional but desirable skills include CAD familiarity, ergonomic and/or postural assessment, prototype testing, as well as prior experience in MITACS or industry-academic collaborations. Strong communication and teamwork abilities are valued.