ESRC Knowledge Exchange Studentship: Individualised Lifelong Learning - understanding how humans of all ages translate sensory experience into complex decisions and adaptive behaviours by taking into account previous experience and learning

Applications are invited for a 4-year ESRC Targeted PhD studentship in the area of Lifelong Learning starting in October 2017 at the Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will conduct research under the supervision of Prof Zoe Kourtzi at the Adaptive Brain Lab (http://www.abg.psychol.cam.ac.uk) and in collaboration with Dr Jason Rentfrow
The project aims to understand how humans of all ages translate sensory experience into complex decisions and adaptive behaviours by taking into account previous experience and learning.
We address this challenge using an interdisciplinary approach that combines behavioural paradigms, psychological assessment, brain imaging and computational modelling. We apply these techniques to study the young and ageing brain and understand the factors (social, environmental, biological) that mediate adaptive behaviours across the lifespan. Our team works with computer scientists and industrial partners that develop mobile apps to translate our research to user-friendly tools that can be used to assess and promote individual learning ability.

For the first year, the student will participate in a Masters for Research programme and will train through lab rotations in a range of interdisciplinary methods including behavioural assessment, state-of-the-art brain imaging and mobile technology. Following, this the student will continue their PhD research in the area of Lifelong Learning.

Eligibility and Funding:

Candidates should have a first or upper second class degree in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, engineering or mathematics and meet the University of Cambridge entrance requirements - see: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/entry-requirements

All applicants must meet the ESRC funding eligibility requirements outlined at:
http://www.esrc.ac.uk/skills-and-careers/studentships/prospective-students/am-i-eligible-for-an-esrc-studentship/

UK and EU students who meet the UK residency requirements will be eligible for a full studentship, which includes University and College fees as well as an annual stipend at UK Research Council rates (TBC). Students from EU countries who do not meet the residency requirements may still be eligible for a fees-only award.

Candidates from Overseas are not eligible for this studentship and should not apply.

Informal enquiries about the project may be made to Professor Zoe Kourtzi ([Email Address Removed]).

Application process:

To apply please e-mail (i) a research statement outlining your suitability, why you are interested in pursuing a PhD in this area, your background and research interests, (ii) your CV stating your citizenship and years of residence in the UK (iii) copies of your academic transcripts and (iv) contact details for two academic referees (one of whom should be a project supervisor) to Mrs Dawn Ellis ([Email Address Removed]) by Friday 3 March 2017. Please add ‘ESRC Knowledge Exchange Studentship: Individualised Lifelong Learning’ to the subject line of your e-mail.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview within two weeks from the application deadline.

Once the successful applicant is informed of the outcome, they will be asked to complete the University’s GRADSAF application form.

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