Connectionists: PhD opportunity in Manchester: Network modelling of brain stimulation and its effect on brain plasticity

[Wael El-deredy]

Medical Research Council funded PhD studentship at the university of Manchester, UK

Electrical stimulation, such as transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can enhance brain plasticity, and so promote learning, but mechanisms are unclear. tACS has been shown to induce membrane oscillations which can enhance perception if applied at the appropriate frequency and phase.

With EPSRC funding we have shown that plasticity of touch is dependent on the frequency of tactile stimulation and are currently collecting MRI data (of key neurotransmitter concentrations and network connectivity) and developing computational network models to better understand this phenomenon. We think electrical stimulation may interact with the network in a similar way.

The resonance frequency of network oscillations influences the interaction of tACS with the brain. Deeper understanding of this process could allow us to enhance the effect of tACS on brain plasticity, and potentially improve its therapeutic effect.

Objectives:
1. To develop a neurocomputational network model incorporating tACS. Consider the effect on network plasticity at a range of frequencies and phase.
2. Determine the frequency and phase dependence of tACS enhancement of sensory (touch) plasticity, in terms of both sensory perception and MRI and EEG markers of plasticity.
3. Determine the frequency dependence of tACS enhancement of the imbibition of return (IOR) visual task to compare to touch. IOR is a marker of impulsive behaviour and attentional bias common in a number of mental health conditions.
4. Test the temporal dynamics of tACS induced plasticity to determine how long they last.

MR-compatible tactile devices and tACS equipment is available in our lab. The computational modelling will extend our current work on neural mass models. MR measurements will be made at the Welcome Trust Clinical Research Centre.

Repetitive stimulation has been shown to affect cognition, perception and emotion. It is potentially a route for non-invasive therapeutic delivery without side-effects. By understanding how stimulation affects neural plasticity we can optimise its delivery.

This 3.5-year full-time MRC DTP studentship provides full support for tuition fees, annual tax-free stipend at Research Council UK rates (currently £14, 057) and conference/travel allowance. The project is due to commence October 2016 and is open to UK/EU nationals only due to the nature of the funding.

This project provides in depth training in 2 of the key DTP skills priority areas, namely imaging and modelling. The student will learn the theory, implementation and analysis of a number of key MRI techniques and neurocomputational modelling will form a core part of the PhD.

There is well-recognised skills gap in physical sciences and maths in the biomedical field. The Centre for Imaging Sciences has an international reputation for developing such skills, providing quantitative cutting-edge MRI techniques for clinical research and translation.

Applicants should hold (or be expected to obtain) a minimum upper-second class undergraduate degree in a related area. A relevant Masters degree or equivalent research experience would be an advantage. Any queries regarding the suitability of qualifications should be directed to the primary supervisor.

Please direct applications in the following format to Dr Laura Parkes (Laura.Parkes at manchester.ac.uk<javascript:void(0)>):
· Academic CV
· Official academic transcripts
· Contact details for two suitable referees
· A personal statement (750 words maximum) outlining your suitability for the study, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date.

Any enquiries relating to the project and/or suitability should be directed to Dr Parkes. Applications are invited up to and including 25 November 2015.

Further details on the MRC DTP scheme and additional PhD project opportunities can be found on our website: http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/mrcdtp<http://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=67664&type=184&DID=2472&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.mhs.manchester.ac.uk%2fmrcdtp>

http://www.manchester.ac.uk/research/laura.parkes/<http://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=67664&type=184&DID=2472&url=http%3a%2f%2fwww.manchester.ac.uk%2fresearch%2flaura.parkes%2f>


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