Connectionists: PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience

[Steuber, Volker]

PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience

Science and Technology Research Institute
University of Hertfordshire, UK

We invite applications for PhD studentships in the Biocomputation Research Group at the Science and Technology Research Institute at the University of Hertfordshire. Depending on the candidate’s interests and background, the project will involve computer simulations of biologically detailed models of neurons and neuronal networks to study information processing in the brain, or the application of novel information-theoretic approaches to understand neural coding (in collaboration with Dr Daniel Polani and the Adaptive Systems Research Group in Hertfordshire). 

More details about our research can be found on our web page and in relevant publications:

http://homepages.stca.herts.ac.uk/~comqvs/

Volker Steuber, Nathan Schultheiss, R Angus Silver, Erik De Schutter and Dieter Jaeger (2011). Determinants of synaptic integration and heterogeneity in rebound firing explored with data-driven models of deep cerebellar nucleus cells. Journal of Computational Neuroscience 30, 633-659.

Reinoud Maex and Volker Steuber (2009). The first second: models of short-term memory traces in the brain. Neural Networks 22, 1105-1112. 

Jason Rothman, Laurence Cathala, Volker Steuber and R. Angus Silver (2009). Synaptic depression enables neuronal gain control. Nature 457, 1015-1018.

Applicants should have excellent computational and numerical skills and a good first degree in maths, computer science, physics, neuroscience, biology or a related discipline. Previous experience in neuroscience is not required but would be an advantage. Successful candidates will receive an approximately £13,500 per annum bursary plus the payment of the standard UK student fees.

Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognized as excellent by the latest Research Assessment Exercise, with 55% of the research submitted being rated as world leading or internationally excellent. The Science and Technology Research Institute provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialized and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training opportunities. The University of Hertfordshire is located in Hatfield, just north of London.

For informal inquiries contact Dr Volker Steuber (v.steuber at herts.ac.uk). Further information and an application form can be obtained from Mrs Lorraine Nicholls, Research Student Administrator, STRI, Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, Tel: 01707 286083, email: l.nicholls at herts.ac.uk. The short-listing process will begin on 1 July 2011.