The School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, at the University of Birmingham, is currently offering a fully funded 3.5-year PhD Studentship for 2023 entry to investigate mechanisms underlying motor recovery after spinal cord injury. The studentship is funded by the International Spinal Research Trust and will start in September 2023.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the funding requirements, this studentship is only available to those who are classed as a “home student”. For more information, please check the following page: View Website.
This project aims to understand the neural mechanisms underlying motor recovery after SCI and how a simple, self-directed exercise can promote these mechanisms, allowing patients to recover better and faster. Assessments will include neuromuscular function, movements, and corticospinal function using high-density electromyography (HDEMG), motion sensors, and electrical peripheral stimulation, respectively. Analysis of motor units decomposition, biomechanics and electrophysiology will be applied using Matlab and Signal software. Data collection will be carried out in our NHS partners.
This studentship will be supervised primarily by Dr Chiou, Dr Martinez-Valdez, Dr Nightingale, and Professor Ahmed and supported by academics across the University with expertise in this field. The student will be embedded in the postgraduate community in the school and the wider university, receiving peer support and mentorship from other PhD students, postdoctoral research fellows, and academics. When collecting data in the partner NHS hospitals, the student will be supported by the clinical teams on site.
Entry Requirements: We are looking for a highly motivated, talented and dedicated PhD candidate with a 1st class or 2:1 degree in the fields of neuroscience, biomedical sciences, engineering, or a related subject area.
Essential skills: Applicants should have a research-oriented background and ideally programming/computing (e.g., Matlab) skills, preferably in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, or neural engineering. The position is more suited for a researcher with a masters level degree or equivalent – though this is not a prerequisite. They should have an interest in clinical neuroscience and working with humans and clinical population. Applicants should have a willingness to travel since data collection from patients with spinal cord injury will take place at partner NHS hospitals Governance and regulation for working in the NHS will be strictly followed (i.e., enhanced DBS check, occupational health check).
Desirable skills: Good statistical and computer skills, experience with physiological experimental lab techniques, and experience with data collection in human participants and/or patient participants. We will also consider applicants who do not yet have these skills and are highly motivated to learn them with our help and guidance during the project.
Informal inquiries should be directed to Dr Chiou ([Email Address Removed]).
To apply: Applications should submit their applications via UoB Admissions Portal: Sport and Exercise Sciences PhD/MSc by Research - Postgraduate research degree - School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences - University of Birmingham
Please include:
• A CV (3 pages maximum) detailing your experience and achievement in research;
• Names and contact details of two referees;
• A covering letter (2 pages maximum) highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• A transcript of your degree
Continue with Facebook
