[visionlist] PhD Positions in NeuroAI at the University of Birmingham

[Jian Liu]

The lab of Dr Jian Liu invites applications for several PhD positions at
the interface of computational neuroscience and machine learning, at the School
of Computer Science and Centre for Human Brain Health at the University of
Birmingham.

Candidates with a quantitative background are welcome to apply. We are
seeking highly motivated candidates with a spirit of intellectual
curiosity. The positions will come with competitive work conditions.
Generous traveling budgets are available.
The following application is approaching the deadline, while other funded
projects are open for applicants.

Towards a functional model for motor sequence planning

Secondary Supervisor(s): Dr Katja Kornysheva
<https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/supervisors/kkornysheva>

University of Registration: University of Birmingham

BBSRC Research Themes: Understanding the Rules of Life (Neuroscience and
Behaviour
<https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/understanding_the_rules_of_life/#NS>
)

*DDL: 27/11/2025*
Project Outline

Motor planning, the cognitive process that precedes voluntary movement, is
essential for executing skilled actions. Uncovering the neural mechanisms
behind motor planning is key to understanding how the brain coordinates
complex, sequential behaviours. This research will investigate the neural
dynamics involved in motor planning, with an emphasis on how the brain
organizes and prepares motor sequences. Previous studies suggest that
neural competitive queuing of ordinal structures plays a central role in
skilled sequential actions [1], allowing the brain to resolve competition
between movements. Furthermore, recent research highlights the use of
expansive null-space representations in motor cortex of non-human primate,
which prepare movements while preventing premature execution [2]. Building
on these insights, this project will explore how neural networks within the
brain coordinate motor planning, focusing on exploring neural dynamics in
different parts of brain areas.

Human recordings conducted at the CHBH provide a rich foundation of
experimental data for this study. The data, gathered through different
modalities, will inform the development of a theoretical model that is
consistent with both these new datasets and previously published results.
The project will also involve designing new experiments based on the
model’s theoretical predictions to validate or refine the proposed
framework.

By integrating advanced neural network models, we aim to build a
comprehensive modelling framework of motor sequence planning that aligns
with experimental findings. These models will provide valuable insights
into human motor sequence planning, offering a deeper understanding beyond
current non-human primate studies.

[1] Kornysheva, et al. Neural competitive queuing of ordinal structure
underlies skilled sequential action. Neuron 101, 11-15 (2019)

[2] Churchland and Shenoy, Preparatory activity and the expansive
null-space. Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 25 (4), 213-236 (2024)


*To Apply:*

https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/supervisors/jliu


The School of Computer Science at the University of Birmingham is one of
the leading UK institutions for research and teaching in computer science.
Our research is ranked 3rd across all UK universities according to the
latest UK-wide Research Excellence Framework. Education is ranked 7th in
the UK for computer science, according to 2023 tables. While pursuing
excellence in research and education, we also aim to optimize our positive
impact on society—examples include collaborations with industry partners
and charities, commercialisation activities and an extensive wider
participation programme.

The University of Birmingham is committed to providing
equal opportunities for all and offers a range of family friendly policies.
We are committed to being an inclusive workplace that values all staff, and
we are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible
working arrangements from our employees. If female candidates are selected,
the maternity leave will be fully guaranteed and the children care
responsibilities will be satisfied (e.g. working in part time). We will
also actively promote gender equality in education and
employment opportunities through workshops, seminars, webinars, and
university open days.
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