NeuroAI: Cognitive computation in biological and artificial intelligence

Summary

This exciting Ph.D. opportunity offers the chance to work at the intersection of neuroscience, cognitive science, and AI to better understand how decisions are made — both in the brain and in machines.

Decision-making lies at the heart of intelligent behaviour. While cognitive and brain sciences have generated vast amounts of rich, complex data, unlocking their insights requires cutting-edge AI and machine learning (ML) techniques.

Meanwhile, although artificial neural networks (ANNs) have powered recent AI breakthroughs, they still fall short in many respects — and the next leap forward may come from studying how biological brains actually make decisions.

This PhD project will explore two key directions:

1. Applying advanced AI/ML methods to neural and behavioural data to uncover the computational foundations of decision-making in humans and animals.
2. Designing novel AI algorithms inspired by brain function, to improve machine decision-making capabilities.

The PhD researcher will work with a mix of openly available datasets and proprietary data from Ulster University’s research labs and international collaborators.

This project is available in the Computer Science Research Institute and is tenable in the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, at the Magee campus.

The PhD researcher will be based at the Intelligent Systems Research Centre and become part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment, drawing on the strengths of Ulster’s Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology, AI/ML, and Computational Biology communities.

The PhD researcher will gain training in:

• AI and ML
• Computational modelling of behaviour and brain function
• High-performance computing
• Applied mathematics and statistics
• Neuroscience and cognitive science

Ulster University provides a supportive and research-intensive environment, ranked 2nd in the UK for PhD researcher satisfaction, and home to one of the largest and most impactful Computer Science and Informatics research units in the country.

This project will shape the future of both AI and our understanding of the mind.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%
• For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.