PhD Position at Cardiff University, UK
Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD studentship in human vision at Cardiff University, supervised by Dr Tony Redmond (School of Optometry and Vision Sciences: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/
Closing date for applications: 13th May 2016
Start date: 1st October 2016
The Project
Project title: Changes in the visual cortex in glaucoma and their role in visual recovery
There is increasing evidence from animal and human studies of a reorganisation of neural connections in the visual cortex in response to a change in neural input. Although glaucoma is first and foremost a retinal disease, the relationship between retinal structure and visual function is not strong, and it is unlikely that visual changes in the disease can be solely explained by changes in retinal structure. This study will investigate the role of the visual cortex in deficits of visual perception associated with glaucoma.
The student will use techniques such as functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and will design, programme and conduct psychophysical tests on patients with glaucoma. The project will involve collaboration with clinicians at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
This studentship is very generously funded by Fight for Sight, The Eye Research Charity (www.fightforsight.org.uk). Funding will cover PhD fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of £17,000 p.a., subject to satisfactory annual progression.
Eligibility
Academic criteria: Candidates must hold, or expect to obtain in the near future, a BSc (2:1 or better) or Master’s degree or equivalent in Psychology, Neuroscience, Neuroimaging, Anatomy physiology and pathology, Biology, or other related scientific discipline. The student must not be a medically- or other clinically-qualified professional.
Additional Criteria: Prior experience with programming in MATLAB is highly desirable. Prior experience with
fMRI is also desirable, but not essential. An enthusiasm for a creative approach to data analysis is essential.
How to apply
To apply for this studentship, please visit the Cardiff University Online Application System (http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/
Please email a CV (including the names and contact details of two referees) and covering letter outlining your interest in the project separately to Dr Tony Redmond (RedmondT1@cardiff.ac.uk), stating the title of the PhD studentship for which you are applying.
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Tony Redmond (Email: RedmondT1@cardiff.ac.