Applications are invited for a PhD studentship available from the start of academic year 2022/23 for 3.5 years, primarily supervised by Professor Rafal Bogacz at the Medical Research Council Brain Network Dynamics Unit at the University of Oxford (MRC BNDU). This project lies on the interface of machine learning and neuroscience. Each of these areas can benefit from the insight from the other. For example, machine learning can be used for optimizing treatments for neurological disorder, while understanding the brain can help develop new machine learning algorithms. The goal of the project is to develop machine learning methods to find optimal control policy for deep brain stimulation (which is a treatment for several neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor). The machine learning methods will include both standard techniques, as well as algorithms based on theories of learning in the brain (predictive coding model). The work on the project will involve development and analysis of learning algorithms, computer simulations, and comparison with experimental data gathered in BNDU and by other collaborators in Oxford. For further details about the project, please contact Professor Rafal Bogacz ([Email Address Removed]) and see the MRC BNDU’s Studentships page.
Applicants need to have strong mathematical skills and background (in calculus, linear algebra and probability theory), and be proficient in computer programming. Interested candidates should possess, or expect to receive, a 1st class or upper 2nd class degree (or equivalent) in a related scientific discipline, e.g. computer science, engineering, mathematics, biological or physical sciences.
The MRC BNDU is uniquely multidisciplinary, integrating exceptional research programmes that span clinical, experimental and computational neuroscience and bioengineering. The collective aim of the MRC BNDU is to understand the moment-to-moment interactions between nerve cells that are critical for brain functions, and to exploit these to develop novel therapies for disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
This Ph.D. (D.Phil.) studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), a part of UKRI. The successful applicant is entitled to receive a tax-free stipend and, as a minimum, tuition fees paid at the Home level, regardless of whether they are Home or International students. Please see further details about MRC/UKRI studentships and guidance regarding Home and International eligibility. International students may be charged international level (‘Overseas’) fees by the University. Overseas fees are typically higher than Home level fees. See further details on fees at the University. Note that this MRC-funded studentship is not able to cover tuition fees above the Home level.
To be considered for this MRC-funded studentship, please submit an application for admission to the D.Phil. in the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (course code RD_CU1), following the admissions guidance. On the application form, in the section headed ‘Departmental Studentship Applications’, please indicate that you are applying for a studentship and enter the reference code for a MRC BNDU studentship"2022BNDUDTA".
The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday UK time on Friday 3rd December 2021.
Interviews for short-listed applicants will be held on Friday 7th and Monday 10th January 2022.
Weblinks:
https://www.mrcbndu.ox.ac.uk/phd
https://www.mrcbndu.ox.ac.uk/people/prof-rafal-bogacz
https://www.mrcbndu.ox.ac.uk/groups/bogacz-group
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