PhD Studentship: High-bandwidth Implantable Brain Processing: From Theory to Practice

Updated: about 7 hours ago
Location: Southampton, ENGLAND
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 31 Aug 2024

PhD Supervisor: Majid Zamani

Supervisory Team: Dr Majid Zamani

Project description:

I am looking for a talented and motivated PhD student to work on high-bandwidth implantable brain processing techniques (i.e. >1000 recording channels using Utah Arrays) for future generation implantable brain machine interfaces (iBMIs). The key challenge with high-bandwidth intracortical processing is associated with the overall computation cost, which demands a paradigm shift from conventional brain data processing approaches. 

The project has the following three objectives:

  • To design low-cost and highly reliable deep learning architectures suitable for real time and on-chip spike sorting.
  • To develop an on-chip processor integrable into the sensing module for real time behavioural decoding of different regions of the brain.
  • To validate the algorithms (simulation and fabricated) using the recorded and resynthesized in-vivo test data.
  • The candidate will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and collaborate with a strong multidisciplinary team of academics at University of Southampton and experts from University College London. 

    Person specifications:

    • Master degree in machine learning, electronics engineering or neuroscience.
    • Knowledge of deep learning architectures (such as CNN, LSTM, AE, GAN) is essential.
    • Strong programming skills (MATLAB, Phyton) is essential.
    • Previous experience on biomedical signal processing and classification.
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to work independently.

    About Dr Zamani:

    Dr Zamani is a lecturer at the School of Electronics & Computer Science, University of Southampton. Before joining Southampton, he was a Postdoc at the UCL Electronic & Electrical Engineering. He has extensive experience in design and fabrication of novel designs in low-power and real-time processors for iBMI in different CMOS technologies.

    How to apply:  

    Please ensure that you include Dr. Zamani’s name as supervisor and the project title in your application. Please enclose the following documents:

    • A one-page statement outlining suitability for the project.
    • A two pages CV (including any publications and contact details of two referees).
    • A research proposal describing how you would tackle this problem.

    After discussing the project with Dr Zamani, eligible applicants should also submit a formal PhD application via the Southampton website, by clicking the Apply button, above. The supervisory team will arrange interviews for short-listed candidates.

    Entry Requirements

    A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

    Closing date : 31 August 2024. 

    Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

    Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

    How To Apply

    Apply online, by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

    Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Computer Science (Full time)”.

    In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor: Majid Zamani

    Applications should include:

    • Research Proposal
    • Curriculum Vitae
    • Two reference letters
    • Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

    For further information please contact: [email protected]