Axonal properties, such as axonal diameter and degree of myelination are known to affect the speed of conduction of neuronal signal. This has important implications for performance and behaviour in health and disease. The advent of quantitative MRI has made it possible to estimate some of these microscopic features in vivo [1,2]. We have developed a protocol that combines quantitative MRI approaches with neurophysiology to link structural properties of the brain (myelination and axonal diameter) with conduction delays measured using complementary modalities (transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), EEG, MEG). The aims of this PhD will be to 1) optimise the existing protocol to make it suitable for a clinical populations; 2) collect data in a group of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS); 3) quantify the effects of demyelination on conduction delays. The research will be carried out at the Cardiff University Brain Imaging Research Centre (CUBRIC), leveraging its state-of-the-art imaging equipment. Applicants should have, or be predicted, a first-class degree in Neuroscience, Psychology, Medical Physics, or Biomedical Engineering. Applicants with an MSc or MPhil or equivalent are also invited. Relevant project or other experience would be an advantage.
The studentship will commence in April 2023 and will cover your tuition fees (at UK/EU level) as well as a maintenance grant. In 2022/23 the maintenance grant for full-time students was £17,668 per annum. As well as tuition fees and a maintenance grant, all School of Psychology students receive access to courses offered by the University’s Doctoral Academy and become members of the University Doctoral Academy
As only one studentship is available and a very high standard of applications is typically received, the successful applicant is likely to have a very good first degree (a First or Upper Second class BSc Honours or equivalent) and/or be distinguished by having relevant research experience.
How to apply:
You can apply online - consideration is automatic on applying for a PhD in Psychology, with an April 2023 start date (programme code RFPDPSYA).
Please use our online application service at
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applying
and specify in the funding section that you wish to be considered for School funding.
Please specify that you are applying for this particular project and the supervisor.
The School of Psychology is one of the largest and most successful in the UK and we are dedicated to providing a dynamic and stimulating learning environment informed by our leading research in psychology and neuroscience - (http://www.cf.ac.uk/psych/).
The School’s excellent standard of research and teaching has been recognised in every Research Assessment Exercise. Our facilities offer unique opportunities for complementary and collaborative studies across methodologies to address novel research questions - https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/psychology/research/facilities.
Clinical Neuroscience - Our research labs are equipped with the state-of-the-art facilities to address key questions of basic and clinical neuroscience https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/neuroscience-mental-health/research/facilities
Brain Imaging (CUBRIC) - Our research facilities include one of Europe’s most powerful brain scanners, as well as a purpose-built environment for patients and volunteers taking part in medical research and clinical trials https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/cardiff-university-brain-research-imaging-centre/facilities
Cardiff University Centre for Human Development Science (CUCHDS) - The Cardiff University Centre for Human Development Science (CUCHDS) provides opportunities for research and training in the study of human development from conception to adulthood.
https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/psychology/research/development-and-health/cardiff-university-centre-for-human-developmental-science-cuchds
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