BRUSSELS NEUROMUSCULAR BIOMECHANICS RESEARCH LAB

The Brussels Neuromuscular Biomechanics (BNB) Research Lab is part of the Department of Movement and Sport Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB). It is a founding partner of the BruBotics Rehabilitation Research Center (BRRC) Core Facility and the Belgian Alliance for Biomechanics, and is also an active member of the BruBotics group at VUB. 

The BNB lab combines expertise in movement-related biomechanics and the neuromechanics of muscle contraction. Our overarching aim is to understand the mechanisms that govern muscle contraction in humans and other vertebrate species, and how muscle-generated movement is influenced by anatomy, specialization, and physical (dis)ability. 

We have particular expertise in imaging technology, muscle activation and neural drive assessment methods, and other neuromechanical techniques such as indwelling and surface muscle and nerve stimulations and force assessment. 

We strive to foster an inclusive and international environment where scientific excellence is achieved through teamwork and out-of-the-box thinking.

Why Muscle Neuromechanics?

Nearly all vertebrate movement arises from muscle-generated action. Different muscles therefore have specific anatomies and compositions that enable a wide range of functions. At the same time, most muscles share a similar basic design and exhibit comparable contraction mechanics across species. Understanding the fundamental mechanisms of muscle contraction, and how they are enhanced or restricted, has broad implications. 

From optimizing human performance to improving rehabilitation and veterinary practices, a thorough understanding of how muscles work is essential for advancing health and quality of life. 

Humanoid robotics, bio-inspired robots, exoskeletons, and neural interfaces for restoring limb control are rapidly evolving. With each step forward, these technologies increasingly incorporate biological mechanisms and design principles found in nature. By deepening our understanding of muscle form, function, and neural control, our research helps drive further technological breakthroughs.

Collaborate With Us

We continuously seek to expand our scientific network and welcome opportunities to collaborate with outstanding scientists, companies, and organizations. Our lab has extensive experience participating in large international and cross-disciplinary projects. 

Whether your research aligns with ours, you are seeking a partner with specific expertise for a multidisciplinary consortium, or you are a student looking for an internship, PhD, or postdoctoral opportunity, we invite you to contact us.