[pymvpa] PhD position, ML+EEG for dementia

[Brian Murphy]

Consumer EEG-based detection of Dementia and Cognitive Aging

We are seeking PhD candidates for a project on EEG-based detection of
the cognitive impairments that come with age.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a technology that records the
'brainwaves' produced by the mind in action. It has been used in
medicine and brain research for many years. Now mobile EEG headsets are
available as consumer products, at prices as low as £50.

In joint work with the University of Trento (Italy) and Beijing Normal
University (China), we have developed machine learning methods that can
distinguish healthy people from those who suffer from some age-related
cognitive problems, using lab-based EEG equipment. We also have related
research collaborations with Carnegie Mellon University, and Tokyo Tech.

The aim of this PhD project is to further develop and improve these
methods. We will also investigate how well the same methods with
consumer EEG devices, in everyday home environments. 

Dr. Murphy is looking for ambitious candidates, who are enthusiastic
about working across multiple subject areas, and are eager to be
involved in this fast-developing sector. Strong programming skills are a
must, and knowledge of signal processing and machine learning would be
an advantage. An interest in psychology or neuroscience is also a plus.

The project is slated to start in Sept/Oct 2014, and follows a
research-only 3 year programme. Qualified candidates with UK or Irish
residency/citizenship may be entitled to a scholarship that includes
fees and a £13-14k annual stipend. We will continue to review
applications over the coming months, but we encourage candidates to
submit an application by the 28th of February.

Interested candidates should contact Brian Murphy directly at
brian.murphy at qub.ac.uk, attaching a current CV.

Queen's Belfast, a Russell Group university: http://www.qub.ac.uk/
School of Electrical, Electronic Engineeering and Computer Science:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/eeecs/