'MINDnet’ Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate (792608)

The Neuromorphic Photonics and Neurotechnologies groups at the Institute of Photonics (IoP) at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow, UK) are seeking a PhD Doctoral Candidate to carry out research at the interface between the two disciplines. In particular, this post will focus on the development of efficient learning algorithms for closed-loop optogenetic control of neural circuits in the brain. The appointed candidate will participate in an international research team as part of the EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network “Neuromorphic computing and signal processing training network (MINDnet)”.

The PhD project “Efficient learning algorithms for closed-loop optogenetic control of neural circuits” aims to develop an optoelectronic interface with neural circuits, that optically modulates neural activity (through a technique known as optogenetics) and electrically monitors the subsequent response. This interface can then be used to implement machine learning algorithms to investigate how the biological and artificial systems dynamically interact – an important area for future neural implants. Ultimately, this will give insight as to how best next-generation neural interface devices might transmit and receive information from the brain.

The PhD project will take place at Strathclyde’s Institute of Photonics (IoP, Physics Dept.). Apart from the time at Strathclyde’s IoP there will be 2 secondments of minimum 3 months at the sites of other partners in the project. There will also be regular meetings with the other PhD students in the doctoral network, including training schools and workshops. The PhD student will become part of the team of Prof Keith Mathieson (main supervisor of the PhD project) at Strathclyde’s IoP. The activities within the PhD project will benefit from synergies with other programmes in our groups as well as with other activities at the IoP and the wider Physics Dept. at Strathclyde.

MINDnet brings together leading academic institutions and industry stakeholders, to establish a doctoral training program addressing critical technical challenges and skill shortages for next-generation neuromorphic computing and analogue signal processing systems. The MINDnet consortium is formed by 7 leading universities, 1 research centre and 2 companies across 8 different European countries, alongside several associated industry partners.

The MINDnet consortium is looking for highly motivated, outstanding doctoral candidates (DCs) with the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to contribute to the innovation and technological advancement of Neuromorphic Technologies. The DCs enrolled in the program will have opportunities to work and collaborate with world-leading researchers from the consortium partners, participate in secondments across academia and industry, and develop a comprehensive skill set through a well-structured training program.

To be considered, candidates are required to have a suitable degree in a relevant field of study for the programme. Candidates must not already hold a doctoral degree, and be able to demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge in the topics of the programme. The MSCA funding of this position has the additional requirement that DCs must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their date of recruitment. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.

Further information is available at: strathvacancies.engageats.co.uk/Vacancies/I/3050/0/465033/15019/mindnet-marie-sklodowska-curie-doctoral-candidate-792608

Informal enquiries to keith.mathieson@strath.ac.uk

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