Postgraduate Opportunities
Newcastle University
Supervisor(s): Dr Adrian Rees
Institute: Institute of Neuroscience
Sponsor: EPSRC
Project Start Date: 1 October 2008
Duration of Award: 3 Years
Project Description
The auditory midbrain has potential as the site for a prosthetic implant to benefit those with specific types of deafness. This project will study the organisation and function of this brain area in experimental animals using a variety of neurophysiological and anatomical techniques in vivo and in vitro. The aim is to gain information necessary for the further development of a computer-based model that could serve as the pre-processor for a midbrain auditory prosthesis. The student will gain an interdisciplinary training that combines experimental and modelling approaches to neuroscience, and benefit from existing collaborations with other groups within and outside the university.
Person Specification
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, at least an upper-second-class Honours degree (or international equivalent), either in physical sciences (e.g. physics, engineering, computing, mathematics) or in neuroscience or biology. They should also display a keen interest in neuroscience and auditory perception. This research project involves work with experimental animals, and the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to these experiments. No previous experience is required, and full training will be given.
Value of the Award
Due to funding criteria, this award is only available to UK and EU applicants.
The award covers fees and an annual stipend (starting at £12,940). Non-UK EU nationals must be resident in the UK for three years prior to the start of the studentship to qualify for the full award. If they do not meet this condition, they will be eligible for a fees only award.
How to Apply
You must complete the University’s postgraduate application form (www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply), selecting ‘PhD Faculty of Medical Sciences (full time)’ as the programme of study and inserting the reference number ION52. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) and a CV, a covering letter and (if English is not your first language) a copy of your English language qualifications must be attached. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote the reference number ION52 and state how your interests and experience relate to the project.
You should also send your covering letter and CV to Nigel Lamond, Postgraduate Secretary, Institute of Neuroscience, Henry Wellcome Building, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, or by email to nigel.lamond@ncl.ac.uk.
Closing Date: 16 June 2008
Further Information
Enquiries may be made to Nigel Lamond (nigel.lamond@ncl.ac.uk) or Dr Adrian Rees (adrian.rees@ncl.ac.uk).
Funding information
- Funding applies to:
- EU applicants (including UK)
