PhD Studentship: Predicting Attention and Action in the Developing Brain with Wearable Neuroimaging and Modelling

Overview

This PhD studentship investigates how the developing brain converts sensory information into reliable action, focusing on how attention and action fluctuate during tasks. The research aims to determine which brain signals predict upcoming responses, examine the distinct or shared contributions of visual attention and motor preparation, and trace how their balance shifts between childhood and adolescence. Participants aged 8 to 16 alongside adults aged 18 to 30 will complete a behavioral task involving button presses and response withholding. The work is supervised by Dr Kyungmin An and Dr Carmel Mevorach and takes place within the School of Psychology.

Requirements

Applicants are required to email the project contact with their curriculum vitae, an academic transcript, and a published research paper prior to submitting an application for the studentship. Candidates should also meet the eligibility standards established by the Midlands Integrated Biosciences Training Partnership.

What you get

This position provides an opportunity to gain practical skills in neuroimaging, scientific programming, and quantitative data analysis while working directly with both children and adults. The research involves recording wearable magnetoencephalography using optically pumped magnetometers, a methodology available in very few laboratories for younger populations.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-11-23.