Action Planning and Coordination.” (PI: Kornysheva).
This PhD project investigates the neural basis of movement planning in naturalistic settings to develop innovative, non-invasive neurotechnology. You will focus on the neural signatures of movement preparation and develop non-invasive BCI interventions that interface causally with brain activity prior to movement execution. Working within the world-class facilities and environment of the Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH), you will integrate EEG, EMG and kinematics, with wider access to MEG/OPM-MEG, fMRI and brain stimulation. As part of a high-level multidisciplinary team and network including the University of Birmingham, EPFL, and the University of Oxford, your work will directly influence the future of non-invasive BCI-driven neurorehabilitation and motor recovery.
Research skill training opportunities will be offered by the School of Psychology (www.birmingham.ac.uk/about/college-of-life-and-environmental-sciences/school-of-psychology), Birmingham Environment for Academic Research (BEAR; www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/arc/bear), as well as the University Doctoral School (www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/doctoral-school).
The project is fully funded for 3.5 years (full-time equivalent), providing a tax-free maintenance stipend at the standard UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27) and a full tuition fee waiver at the Home rate. International applicants must demonstrate they have secured or are applying for a scholarship to cover the difference between Home and Overseas fees.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
- Academic Excellence: A minimum upper second-class honours degree (2:1) BSc in Neuroscience, Psychology, Computer Science, (Electrical) Engineering, Robotics, or a related quantitative discipline.
- Quantitative Skills: Proficiency in programming (Python or MATLAB) for data acquisition and signal processing.
- Neuroimaging Experience: Proven experience with MEG/EEG/EMG data collection and analysis.
- Autonomy: Ability to act on one’s own initiative and solve technical problems independently.
- Residency: Eligibility for UK Home Student status. Applications from international students are only considered if accompanied by a confirmed scholarship covering the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees.
Desirable Criteria:
- A MSc degree in Neuroscience, Psychology, Computer Science, (Electrical) Engineering, Robotics, or a related quantitative discipline.
- Peer-reviewed publications in a relevant research area
- Experience with real-time data processing and BCI pipelines
- Familiarity with non-invasive brain stimulation (e.g., tTIS)
- Experience with neurorehabilitation technologies
How to Apply
- Access the Portal: Apply via the PhD Psychology program page (www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/subjects/psychology-courses/psychology-phd)
- Project Details: Clearly state the project title: “Dissecting the Neural Code for Skilled Action Planning and Coordination” and list Dr. Katja Kornysheva as the primary supervisor.
- Funding Section: Select 'University of Birmingham Scholarship' and enter "College of LES – UKRI FLF (Kornysheva)".
- Required Materials:
- Academic CV.
- Cover Letter (max. 2 pages, 11-point Arial, 2.54 cm margins) outlining your motivation and fit.
- Transcripts and contact details for two academic referees.
Selection and Interview Process
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a formal interview (via Zoom/Teams or in-person) conducted by the supervisory team.
Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual feedback at the pre-interview stage.
