At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in computational psychiatry and develop innovative cognitive paradigms.
- Company: UCL, a world leader in neuroscience with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Covers UK fees and stipend, with a competitive London stipend of £22,780.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mental health through cutting-edge research in schizophrenia treatment.
- Qualifications: Degree in computational/mental health neuroscience or related field; programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 22780 - 22780 £ per year.
UCL is world-renowned for neuroscience. The post will be based in the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, an inter-disciplinary institute. Prof Rick Adams is a leader in Computational Psychiatry – the application of computational methods to psychiatric neuroscience. He is a Group Leader in the ICN and runs the Translational Computational Psychiatry lab.
The primary purpose of this PhD position is to conduct an experimental medicine study of a glutamatergic treatment for schizophrenia. A research assistant will be employed for two years to help drive recruitment. Patients with schizophrenia will undergo an MEG scan comprising auditory oddball, 40Hz stimulation and resting paradigms. From these we will infer baseline excitatory (E) and inhibitory (I) function in cortex. The patients will then take an NMDA receptor-modulating medication for one month, and their cognition and symptoms will be reassessed. The research question is: does baseline E/I function predict response to glutamatergic medication at one month? The secondary purpose of the PhD project is for the student to develop their own side project; most likely a cognitive paradigm that can be performed by patients in the study.
The candidate will have a (nearly) completed degree in computational/mental health neuroscience, physics, engineering or similar, and be eligible for UK Home Student fees. They will need experience in scientific programming (e.g. Matlab, Python), and a strong academic record, including a completed degree research project. Desired criteria include a Masters in neuroscience/related field, interest in mental health (especially schizophrenia), and experience with M/EEG.
The award covers UK fees and stipend only, with no fees covered in the 4th year (for writing up). Funding will cease once the PhD is submitted. 2025/26 Stipend: London - £22,780.
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
PhD Studentship in Translational Computational Psychiatry in London employer: UCL
UCL is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to pioneering research in neuroscience and fostering a collaborative work culture within the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. As a PhD student, you will benefit from working alongside leading experts in Computational Psychiatry, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, while contributing to meaningful research that has the potential to impact mental health treatment. Located in London, UCL offers a vibrant environment that embraces diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship in Translational Computational Psychiatry in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty members at UCL. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the lab and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a mini-presentation or portfolio showcasing your programming projects in Matlab or Python. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your passion for mental health. Think about how your background in computational neuroscience aligns with the research on schizophrenia. Your enthusiasm can really make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship in Translational Computational Psychiatry in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for computational psychiatry shine through. We want to see why you're excited about this field and how your background aligns with our research goals.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in scientific programming and any projects related to mental health or neuroscience. We love seeing how your skills fit into the role, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain why you’re interested in this PhD position and how your previous work has prepared you for this exciting opportunity at UCL.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials and can consider you for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the research project you'll be involved in. Familiarise yourself with glutamatergic treatments and their implications for schizophrenia. Being able to discuss the experimental medicine study confidently will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your experience in scientific programming, especially with Matlab or Python. Prepare examples of past projects where you applied these skills, particularly in neuroscience contexts. This will demonstrate your technical proficiency and how it aligns with the role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the lab's current projects, the team dynamics, or how they envision your side project developing. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing meaningfully to the team.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Mental Health
Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for mental health research, particularly regarding schizophrenia. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive your interest in this area. This personal touch can set you apart from other candidates.
