Uncovering Human Cortical Growth Principles for Neuromorphic Computing

This project focuses on developing a new computational framework to uncover the fundamental principles governing how brain networks grow and self-organise.

This is a computational project grounded in the direct analysis of complex biological data. While we can record neuronal activity, these recordings are like isolated snapshots. This project will address this challenge by pioneering a dynamic Bayesian inference model, grounded in statistical physics, to analyse state-of-the-art biological datasets, specifically high-resolution multielectrode array (MEA) recordings from developing human cortical networks.

The key innovation is to create a "movie" from these snapshots, inferring the evolving network structure by tracking how synaptic connections grow, strengthen, and prune over days. The researcher will work at the interface of advanced theory and challenging biological data analysis, interacting closely with experimental neurobiologists. The ultimate goal is to extract the underlying rules of human neuronal plasticity, providing foundational knowledge to inform the development of novel neuromorphic computing architectures.

PhD programmes are for those who are seeking to develop greater in-depth knowledge in a specific area. Completing this level of study is about making an original contribution to knowledge, making new discoveries and developing lifelong skills. 

At Aston University, our Engineering and Physical Sciences PhD programmes will provide all the support and facilities you will need to develop into a leading researcher in your chosen field.  You will be welcomed into a supportive community with a shared enthusiasm for original research, where diversity and multidisciplinary is championed.

This studentship includes a bursary to cover the tuition fees rate, plus an annual maintenance allowance.

The successful applicant should have, or expect to achieve, a Master’s degree in a relevant subject with a weighted average of 60% or above, and/or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution) in mathematics, physics, statistics, or a related subject with a strong mathematical background.

Qualifications from other countries which are considered by Aston University to be equivalent to that described above will be eligible to apply.

We can only consider applications that are complete and have all supporting documents. Applications that do not provide all the relevant documents will be automatically rejected. Your application must include: 

1. English language copies of the transcripts and certificates for all your higher education degrees, including any Bachelor degrees.
2. A Research Statement detailing your understanding of the research area, how you would approach the project, and a brief review of relevant literature. Be sure to use the title of the research project you are applying for. There is no set format or word count. 
3. A personal statement which outlines any further information which you think is relevant to your application, such as your personal suitability for research, career aspirations, possible future research interests, and further description of relevant employment experience. 
4. A Curriculum Vitae (Resume) which details your education and work history. 
5. Two academic referees who can discuss your suitability for independent research. References must be on headed paper, signed and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from your most recent University. You can submit your references at a later date if necessary. 
6. Evidence that you meet the English Language requirements. If you do not currently meet the language requirements, you can submit this at a later stage. 
7.  A copy of your passport. Where relevant, include evidence of settled or pre-settled status.

Interviews

Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams. If you are shortlisted, you will be contacted directly with details of the interview.  

Overseas Applicants

Overseas students are welcome to apply for this position. 
 

For formal enquiries about this project contact Dr Ho Fai Po at h.po@aston.ac.uk.

Studying a PhD is great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.

In addition to this specialist knowledge, PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferrable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.

The variety of PhD project topics at Aston means that the destinations of our graduates vary substantially. Some choose to continue into academia, at either Aston or other leading institutions, while others go onto use their newly acquired skills in a range of research, healthcare, industry or charitable fields. When selecting your chosen PhD path at Aston, your supervisor will be able to provide you with relevant career opportunities that could be available to you in your specialist area.