We spend 1/3rd of our life asleep, and the brain is very busy during this time. The neural oscillations of sleep have known restorative functions, and are also critical for memory consolidation and emotional processing. The NAPS research group studies all of these functions of sleep, (see: http://sites.psych-sci.manchester.ac.uk/naru/researchthemes/learningneuroplasticitysleep/sleepandmemory/, but note we have moved to Cardiff though we don't yet have a web page here). Potential PhD projects include investigations into ways to manipulate sleep (called 'sleep engineering') in order to enhance all of these functions. Sleep engineering involves both manipulation of oscillations through auditory and electrical (tACS / tDCS) stimulation and manipulation of memory replay (targeted memory reactivation) in sleep. See my TEDx talk for an easy intro (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KaMufF0rAY. In the NAPS lab, we are interested in enhancing sleep to improve health (for instance by counteracting the impacts of ageing which lead to reductions in deep slow wave sleep). We are also interested in manipulating memory consolidation by triggering the replay of selected memories in different combinations and in different sleep stages. This can lead not only to stronger memory, but to integration of new memories with each other and with existing knowledge, providing a basis for creativity.
Many of our projects would be appropriate for those with a Psychology or Cog Neuro background, but we also have a couple of projects that would be appropriate for a computer scientist (somebody with both backgrounds would be great). An example computer science project involves identification of neural replay during sleep using multivariate pattern classifiers. This is a very exciting area, as we've developed the first method for noninvasively identifying these replays in humans, and are now hoping to extend/improve this work.
The studentship available generates a very high standard of applications, 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 in psychology, biology, neuroscience, mathematics, or engineering/computer science.
Students are expected to have good quantitative skills, including knowledge of a scripting language such as R, MATLAB, or python, high scores in statistics courses, and a demonstrated interest in quantitative questions.
Consideration is automatic on applying for a PhD in Psychology, with a Jan 2017 start date (programme code RFPDPSYB). Please use our online application service at www.cf.ac.uk/regis/general/applyonline/index.html
and specify in the funding section that you wish to be considered for School funding.
Please ensure you include your personal statement in your application form and please indicate in the funding section that you wish to be considered for the School funding. Please attach a full CV (PDF) to your application.
1st August 2016 with interviews (either in person or by Skype) being held late August 2016 and decisions being made by 1st September 2016.
Funding notes:
The studentship will commence in January 2017, and will cover your tuition fees (at UK/EU level) as well as a maintenance grant. In 2015-16 the maintenance grant for full-time students was £14,057 per annum. As well as tuition fees and a maintenance grant, you will receive a participant allowance of £300 per annum, and conference funding (£100 in Year 1, £600 in Years 2 and 3). You will also receive a computer and office space, and access to courses offered by the University''s Graduate Centre and become members of the University Graduate College.
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