Job ID: 84686
PhD position on decoding of neural signals
Position: Ph.D. Student
Deadline: 14 July 2022
Employment Start Date: 1 September 2022
Contract Length: 4 years
City: Leuven
Country: Belgium
Institution: KU Leuven
Department: Neurosciences
Description:
The Laboratory for Neuro- and Psychophysiology investigates the brain in animal models and humans using a variety of techniques including imaging, electrophysiology and behavioral measurements. This PhD project fits in a research group focusing on translational neuroscience research, where we want to develop and improve interventions that can help patients with disorders of the nervous system.
This PhD project aims to find novel approaches for invasive brain-machine interfaces that may benefit paralyzed patients. Specifically, we want to use advanced decoding techniques in combination with AI and computer vision to allow a subject (animal or patient) to navigate in a virtual reality environment and grasp objects effortlessly based on neural activity recorded with permanently implanted microelectrode arrays. To this end, we want to develop these new decoding algorithms in animal models and then apply them in paralyzed patients. The project involves large-scale electrophysiological recordings of neural activity, decoding of neural activity recorded in premotor and primary motor cortex, and behavioral measurements. This PhD project is part of a collaboration between researchers from different departments at KU Leuven and the university hospital Leuven.
Profile:
Master in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering or related disciplines
Fluent in English
Solid background in statistics
Willingness to work on a highly interdisciplinary project
Good communication skills
Experience with Matlab and Python is highly recommended
Offer:
4 years full-time PhD research
Exciting research environment with a strong focus on reseach with high societal potential value
Participation in meetings and international conferences