More than meets the eye? Using eye movements to understand the cognitive mechanisms underlying reading

As we read our eyes make a series of brief pauses to extract visual information from the text, separated by rapid movements which bring new words into central vision. Where and when the eyes move is strongly linked with the cognitive mechanisms underlying reading. For example, readers are more likely to look at, and spend longer looking at, rare words compared to common words, demonstrating that the difficulty of lexical processing is reflected in the eye movement record. Studying eye movements therefore provides a crucial insight into the processes that occur in the brain as we read.

This project will use eye tracking to further understand the cognitive processes underlying reading. This could incorporate work examining normative reading, reading in special populations (e.g. individuals with dyslexia or autism), development aspects (e.g. changes during childhood or older age), or under-examined languages.

Entry requirements
Applicants are required to hold/or expect to obtain a UK Bachelor Degree 2:1 or better in a relevant subject. The University of Leicester English language requirements apply where applicable.

How to apply
You should submit your application using our online application system: https://www2.le.ac.uk/research-degrees/phd/applyphd
We are unable to consider applications submitted by email.

Guidance for completing the online application form: Under ‘Select your area of study,’ choose ‘Neuroscience Psychology and Behaviour Research’; under ‘Select your intake date,’ choose ‘September 2019’.
In the Funding section of the application, select please state you wish to be considered for a NPB College of Life Sciences Funded Studentship.

In the Research Proposal section of the application, please provide the name of the supervisor and project you want to be considered for. You do not need a research proposal but you should submit a personal statement explaining why you are interested in this project.
Project / Funding Enquiries: Applicants are encouraged to contact prospective supervisors by email or phone to discuss the project and their interests prior to submitting a formal application.

Application enquiries to [Email Address Removed]
Closing date for applications: Monday 21 January 2019