Parkinson’s and Implicit Motor Learning, Medical School, PhD (Funded)

The University of Exeter and the University of Queensland are seeking exceptional students to join a world-leading, cross-continental research team tackling major challenges facing the world’s population in global sustainability and wellbeing as part of the recently launched QUEX Institute.

Find out more about the PhD Studentships www.exeter.ac.uk/quex/phds


Project Description:

Movement strategies, such as cueing or attentional strategies are recommended for people with Parkinson’s (PwP). Implicit motor learning strategies, such as analogies, are an approach that has been shown to be durable under stress and dual tasks and may have additional benefits over traditional movement strategies by way of utility and reduced cognitive load. Whilst analogy strategies have been used in sport training, they have received little attention for PwP.

Balance impairments and falls are common in PwP and often become more pronounced during dual task and everyday activities such as walking outdoors when avoiding obstacles, negotiating changing terrain or busy crowds. Preventing falls and improving balance ability is the number one research priority for PwP, their carers and health and social care professionals http://www.jla.nihr.ac.uk/priority-setting-partnerships/parkinsons/top-10-priorities/

This PhD builds on existing work undertaken by the two institutions and will involve mixed methods to develop and test the use of implicit strategies for PwP. This process uses the MRC Framework for developing and evaluating complex Interventions.

• A systematic review will identify and synthesise existing research that has evaluated the effects of implicit motor learning strategies with PwP, and the experiences of those using and delivering the strategies.
• A mixed methods study will develop and test the feasibility of physiotherapist delivered implicit motor learning strategies. This will include:

Working directly with physiotherapists and PwP in developing strategies that can be further evaluated
Delivering the strategy intervention to six PwP to establish its feasibility. This will involve collecting qualitative and quantitative data from participants and physiotherapists including questionnaires, assessments of gait and activities, and interviews. These data will help refine an intervention manual and establish proof of concept

• A pilot randomised controlled trial will determine the feasibility and acceptability of proceeding to a full-scale randomised controlled trial.

This project brings together international expertise in gait and balance, rehabilitation and skill acquisition.



Academic Entry Requirements:

Applicants should be highly motivated and have, or expect to obtain, either a first or upper-second class BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.


If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/english/ for more information and a list of acceptable alternative tests.


How to apply:

To apply, complete the online form(http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/money/funding/application/). You will be asked to submit some personal details and upload a full CV, supporting statement, academic transcript and details of two academic referees. Your supporting statement should outline your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake this project, with particular reference to the collaborative nature of the partnership with the University of Queensland, and how this will enhance your training and research.

Applicants who are chosen for interview will be notified on 21 September 2017.

Please quote reference 2665 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

For general enquiries please contact [Email Address Removed]