PhD Studentship – Statistical Inference for Brain Networks, University of Reading

PhD Studentship – Statistical Inference for Brain Networks, University of Reading
A research studentship is available in Statistics at the University of Reading, supervised by Dr. Richard Everitt and Prof. Doug Saddy. Funding is for 42 months, covering fees, and with a tax-free stipend. Note that standard rules concerning EU residency apply. The studentship is due to start on 1 October 2014, although this is negotiable.
You will conduct basic research in the area of Monte Carlo simulation for performing Bayesian inference for intractable problems, motivated by applications in neuroscience. Neuroscience is at the beginning of what should be an intense period of growth. Earlier this year President Obama announced a large investment in the project “Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies” (BRAIN), which aims to produce a complete map of connections in the human brain. This is neuroscience’s equivalent to the human genome project, which has revolutionised genetics in the past 10-15 years. This studentship offers the opportunity to develop new statistical methods for analysing such data.
You will be based in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, but in addition you will work collaboratively work with members of the Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics (CINN). The project offers the scope for personal development to students who are interested in either methodological or applied statistics. Further details of the project may be obtained from Dr. Richard Everitt (r.g.everitt@reading.ac.uk).
You should have at least a good 2.1 degree (predicted or actual) and a background in Mathematical Statistics, with an interest in Bayesian statistics or Monte Carlo methods and in the development of innovative approaches to modelling and analysing complex brain data. Familiarity with a programming language such python, Matlab, R or C++ is also desirable.
If interested, please apply online at www.reading.ac.uk/pgapply. Note that the general University requirement for a lengthy research proposal is not a requirement for applicants to Mathematics or Statistics. Contact Dr. Richard Everitt (r.g.everitt@reading.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.