PhD Studentship: How Sights Become Signals for Learning
Uncover the neural circuits that transform visual information into dopamine signals to understand learning and motivation.
Best for:Best for aspiring neuroscientists with a strong background in biology, computation, or behavioural tasks interested in neural circuits.
Overview
The University of Exeter, through the GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme, is offering a four-year PhD studentship focused on how the brain discovers that a visual cue predicts something important. The selected candidate will investigate neural circuits transforming visual inputs into dopamine signals governing motivation, action, and decision-making. Working within clinical and biomedical sciences, the student will employ advanced neuroscientific techniques including in vivo electrophysiology, fibre photometry, and computational modelling. The project provides comprehensive research training relevant to understanding conditions such as Parkinson's disease and psychiatric disorders.
What you'll do
- Conduct experiments investigating neural circuit transformations of visual information into dopamine signals
- Utilize state-of-the-art techniques such as in vivo electrophysiology, fibre photometry, and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry
- Perform targeted optogenetic stimulation and behavioral tasks to record and control learning in real time
- Apply computational modelling approaches to analyze behavioural and neural data
- Participate in advanced research training and support activities provided by the GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or MSc in a relevant scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Background in neuroscience, biological sciences, psychology, computer sciences, or economics
- Interest in neural circuits, dopamine signalling, and learning mechanisms
- Familiarity with quantitative methods or computational modelling
- Open to UK and International students
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Interested applicants should review the project details and submit their applications through the designated university funding portal link provided. Ensure all required documentation is prepared and uploaded ahead of the specified deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
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