Human brains excel at concurrently learning multiple tasks, but for AI applications this still presents a major challenge. The interplay between structure and function is evident in the multi-scale organization of the brain. The cerebral cortex is divided into functional areas with distinct sub-structures, and the sparse network connectivity is spatially and hierarchically organized. Associated with learning, memory, and recovery from lesions, the connectivity continuously changes not only during infancy, but also in the adult brain. 

Two studentships are available to investigate adaptive network structures in multi-task learning scenarios. The successful candidates will develop and simulate large-scale spiking neural network models using high-performance computing systems. They will actively participate in the research activities of the project “STRUCTICITY: Multi-level STRUCTure and plastICITY in large-scale spiking neural networks for event-based sensing” funded by the Volkswagen Foundation within the scope of the "NEXT-Neuromorphic Computing" call. This project entails a close collaboration with Forschungszentrum Juelich (Germany), University Osnabrück (Germany), and Western Sydney University (Australia). 

Applicants should have a background in physics, mathematics, computer science, computational neuroscience, or a related field. Solid skills of math and programming (preferentially in Python or C++) are required. Experience with modelling, analysis of complex systems, simulation, and software development are beneficial. Applicants should have a keen interest in neuroscience, interdisciplinary projects, and collaborative work. 

Informal enquiries about this opportunity are highly encouraged and can be sent to Dr Johanna Senk (j.senk@sussex.ac.uk). 

The stipend is available to: UK / EU / Overseas. (Sept 2024 entry for UK/EU and Jan 2025 for overseas)

The fee waiver is available to: UK / EU / Overseas. (Sept 2024 entry for UK/EU and Jan 2025 for overseas)

Eligible candidates will have an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate degree or above, in a relevant field.  

The University of Sussex believes that the diversity of its staff and student community is fundamental to creative thinking, pedagogic innovation, intellectual challenge, and the interdisciplinary approach to research and learning. We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion amongst our staff and students. As such, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Apply via the postgraduate application system for a full time PhD in Informatics. Home and EU pre-settled applicants, please apply for September 2024 entry. Overseas applicants, please apply for January 2025 entry.

Please clearly state on your application that you are applying for the Bio-inspired multi-task learning with adaptive network structures scholarship under the supervision of Dr Johnanna Senk.  

Please ensure you application includes each of the following: 

• A research proposal. For guidance on writing your research proposal, please see here.  
• A letter of motivation outlining your research interests.
• Your CV.
• Degree certificates and transcripts. 
• 2 references, including a minimum of 1 from any institution studied at within the last 5 years.
• If your first language is not English you will need to demonstrate that you meet the University’s English language requirements, see here for details of our accepted documentation.