PhD Studentship: Brain Mechanisms of Learning (Deadline, 12pm on 11th February, 2019)
Applications are invited for a full-time PhD Studentship to investigate frontal lobe and cerebellar basis of memory formation and decision-making in the human brain (see Ramnani (2006), Nature Reviews Neuroscience 7(7):511-522). This exciting project will include opportunities to develop and use highly innovative experimental designs and a range of different data acquisition and analysis methods. MRI data will be acquired at two well-supported, research-dedicated MRI facilities (3 Tesla CUBIC MRI scanner hosted at Royal Holloway, and the ultra-high field 7 Tesla MRI facility at the Wellcome Trust Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, University of Oxford). The work will also use different behavioural methods. We will compare the higher order, instrumental learning of eye movements using a state-of-the-art, MRI-compatible eyetracker, with the cerebellar-dependent classical conditioning of simple reflexes. In addition, the project will investigate the impact of ageing upon information processing in the human brain and there will also be a minor, applied study that investigates eye movement skill in older drivers using a driving simulator. This research project is generously funded through a BBSRC grant to Prof. Narender Ramnani.
The successful candidate will work in a supportive environment that fosters career development, will have a chance to shape the science, and acquire expertise in a large range of techniques and skills. They will also be supported to produce first-author papers in work that they lead. The post will suit candidates who can demonstrate an aptitude and enthusiasm for research, experience of research environments, and a strong interest in pursuing a research career. They should also be confident in their ability to acquire new computing and technical skills. Applicants should ideally hold, or be predicted to achieve, a first class or upper second class undergraduate degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, or related disciplines (an MSc in these subjects is not essential). Further information on our research environment can be found here.
The studentship is expected to commence in September 2019 or as soon as possible thereafter. For eligible students the studentship will cover UK/EU fees and a tax-free annual stipend, equivalent to UKRI rates, with London weighting (starting at approximately £17,000 per year).
You do not need to submit a research proposal for this project. Instead, please submit your CV and a personal statement where you explain how your past research experience and studies have prepared you for this project. Please contact Professor Narender Ramnani (n.ramnani@rhul.ac.uk) with further queries.
Applications should be submitted via RHUL Direct.
The closing date for the receipt of applications is 12pm on Monday 11th February 2019, and interviews are anticipated in the week of 18th February.
