Reference Code: IN067

Closing Date: 7th December 2013

Details:

Name of the supervisors
Dr C Petkov, The Institute of Neuroscience
Professor T Griffiths, The Institute of Neuroscience

Sponsor
Medical Research Council (MRC)

Duration of the award
Four years (integrated Master’s and PhD).

Project description
The Laboratory of Comparative Neuropsychology is seeking applications from outstanding candidates for a PhD studentship on the evolution of the neuronal networks for human language and their relevance to patients with aphasia.

The successful applicant will join an active research group that relies on emergent technologies to pursue questions at the core of the disciplines of evolutionary biology and neuroscience. Specialized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies at Newcastle allows for the collection of comparative functional MRI data. We aim to use these to assist medical science in developing treatments for communication disorders by gaining new insights on the brain networks that support communication abilities and their origins in humans.

The candidate will lead a project within this MRC funded theme and test evolutionary relationships to bridge or clarify the links between the brain function of humans and other species along with a direct link to a clinical communication disorder.

Value of the award and eligibility
Depending on how you meet the MRC’s eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to a full or a partial award. A full award covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of £13,726 (2013/14). A partial award covers fees at the UK/EU rate only.

Person specification
Applicants must have at least an upper-second-class Honours degree, or equivalent, in neuroscience, psychology or a related discipline. A promising track-record based on publication is a must, as is laboratory-based experience with comparative functional MRI/EEG/electrophysiology, programming (e.g., C++, matlab) and strong analytic skills. Experience with the study of clinical populations is highly desirable.

How to apply
You must apply through the University’s online postgraduate application form selecting ‘Master of Research/Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences)-Neuroscience’ as the programme of study. Once you have selected the programme, please insert the studentship/partnership reference number IN067. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number IN067.

Further information
For further details, please contact:
Dr C Petkov
E-mail: chris.petkov@ncl.ac.uk

To find out more about how to apply contact:
Helen Stewart
E-mail: helen.stewart@ncl.ac.uk