PhD Study : AI4NG : AI for Neurogaming - AI-Cloud Platform for Largescale Neurogaming  with Neurotechnology

Summary

Brain controlled video games can be used in training users to intentionally modulate their brainwaves. A challenge is to train the users in paradigms which are not too simplified (e.g., simple cursor control) such that progressing from a training paradigm to a real-world communication/control situation significantly impacts on the performance of the subject. Video games provide such a learning environment, where increased cognitive load can be controlled by modulating the amount of stationary or moving objects/matter which may or may not need to be attended to by the BCI user. Controllable distraction to the user can help the user learn to cope with such distractions when using BCI in the real world.

While there has been successful research into brain-computer game interaction to date, the algorithms and techniques developed are limited in scope and may not utilise all available data in the appropriate contexts e.g., optimising for genre specific games. Whilst the importance of computer games, the challenge, and the competition, provide key ingredients for motivating and engaging user whilst they learn to control a BCI, brainwave controlled games need to be developed to suit the end purpose or application. For entertainment this is obvious: keep the users engaged, excited, challenged (but not too much) and immersed where gamers must feel they are in control of the BCI.

This project will focus on presenting a neurogaming framework (hardware, software etc) to a large cohort of gamers and assessing neurogamer performance and motivation where neurogaming technology is provided directly to users outside the lab without researcher support physically present but where users are monitored and supported remotely. Performance metrics, motivation, usage trends etc will be monitored along with brain data collected. Data collected from multiple users will be collated over the course of months and used to train and improve AI deep learning frameworks to create next generation neurotechnology.

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 comprehensive and articulate personal statement

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

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• 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.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living