PhD Studentship: Enhancing Trauma Therapy Recovery via Sleep-Based Memory Cues
Explore how sleep can reinforce progress in trauma therapy using wearable technology and mathematical modelling.
Best for:Best for psychology or biomedical science graduates with an interest in neuroscience, trauma recovery, and quantitative research methods.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of Exeter focuses on investigating whether sleep can enhance recovery from traumatic memories, potentially improving outcomes for PTSD patients. The project leverages wearable sleep technology to monitor brain activity at home and employs advanced mathematical modelling to understand individual variations in therapy benefits. Funded by the MRC GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme, the studentship covers tuition fees and a stipend for four years, starting October 2027. It is part of a competitive programme offering 18 studentships across biomedical disciplines, open to both UK and international applicants.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental research using wearable sleep technology to monitor brain activity during sleep in trauma therapy patients.
- Develop and apply mathematical models to analyse individual differences in memory consolidation during sleep.
- Collaborate with clinical psychologists to design and implement therapy interventions linked to sleep-based memory cues.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research at national and international conferences.
- Contribute to the broader GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme by engaging with interdisciplinary research networks.
Requirements
Degree required: A relevant master’s degree (or equivalent) in Psychology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Science, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency suitable for academic research in the UK (no specific test mentioned).
Instruction: English
- Strong background in neuroscience or psychology research methods.
- Experience with statistical analysis and mathematical modelling.
- Familiarity with wearable neurotechnology or EEG devices.
- Ability to conduct human participant research in clinical settings.
- Open to UK and international applicants.
- No specific age or residency restrictions mentioned beyond standard UKRI eligibility.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Applicants must apply online through the University of Exeter’s funding portal. Submit a CV, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and two references. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
- CV
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research proposal outlining the intended PhD project
- Two reference letters
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