PhD Studentship: Interoception of Breathing and the Effects on the Cortical Control of Balance

Coventry University (CU) is inviting applications from suitably qualified graduates for a fully funded PhD position commencing September 2024. This interdisciplinary project brings together different fields (neuroscience, physiology, and psychology) to examine the role that interoception (sensing of internal bodily changes, such as breathing) plays in the generation of emotional states (specifically, fear of falling). The PhD candidate will play a crucial role in conducting in-depth research by shedding light on potential brain mechanisms involved in the interoception of breathing and elucidate how these factors influence subjective fear and anxiety states. The project will culminate with an intervention to test how improved interoceptive awareness can alter symptoms of fear and anxiety. The PhD candidates’ responsibilities will include:

• Conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature
• Designing and developing novel experimental paradigms for exploring interoceptive mechanisms
• Collecting, analysing and interpreting data from study participants (older adults)
• Preparing research papers based on the findings of the study for publication in scientific journals
• Presenting research at international conferences

The position offers an exceptional opportunity to develop skills in physiological assessment (ventilation, electroencephalography [EEG], electromyography [EMG]) and investigating the psychological (fear and anxiety) and behavioural (postural control) responses to experimentally induced fear of falling (postural threat). The post holder will also benefit from the expertise provided by members of the project team including Dr. Toby Ellmers (Imperial College London), Dr. Fei He (CU) and Dr Simon Ellis (CU). 

The post holder will be housed within the Centre for Physical Activity, Sport and Exercise Sciences (PASES) at Coventry University. The centre has considerable expertise, spanning physical activity and sport performance, physiology, biomechanics and exercise psychology. The successful candidate will also receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills by the Doctoral College. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities. 

Entry criteria for applicants to PhD

• A bachelor’s (honours) degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum classification of 2:1 and a minimum mark of 60% in the project element (or equivalent), or an equivalent award from an overseas institution. PLUS the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years
• An adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by applicants whose first language is not English.

For further details please visit: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-opportunities/research-students/making-an-application/research-entry-criteria/

https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-opportunities/research-students/making-an-application/

Prospective PhD students with a background in neuroscience and/or psychology are strongly encouraged to apply for the project, though applicants without this background will be considered. All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus an up to 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project. The selection process will also involve an interview with the supervisory team, during which candidates will have the opportunity to showcase their enthusiasm and interest in the topic.

To find out more about the project please contact Dr. Mathew Hill matt.hill@coventry.ac.uk

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