Brunel University Uxbridge

What you'll study

Research topics span cognitive neuroscience, clinical neuroscience and related interdisciplinary themes. Methodologies and tools used across projects include:

• functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and access to a 3 Tesla MRI scanner
• electroencephalography (EEG), including a mobile EEG system and EEG laboratory
• eye-tracking (MRI-compatible systems and mobile eye-tracking glasses)
• transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS)
• electromyography (EMG), near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), infrared thermography and a 3D body scanner
• psychophysics and cognitive–behavioural paradigms

Examples of suggested PhD topic ideas provided by the department include work on attention and electrophysiology, digital therapeutics for mental health, neuropsychology of psychosis in older adults, item-level memory scoring for cognitive ageing, meditation effects on brain and mood, trust and naturalness in autonomous vehicles, and other supervisor-led proposals.

Entry requirements

The stated academic entry requirement is a 2:1 undergraduate degree. Applicants are invited to contact potential supervisors directly and to browse supervisor profiles and suggested topics before applying.

Career prospects

Doctoral graduates are prepared for multiple pathways. The course highlights routes such as academic posts (lecturer/assistant professor), postdoctoral research roles in institutes, and applied careers in government agencies, sports organisations and charities. Other possible destinations include roles in health and social care and professional education and training. Brunel also offers tailored careers support during the PhD and for up to three years after completion.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Brunel provides research training and development through the Graduate School and a Researcher Development Programme; candidates should consult the university's fees and funding pages and the Graduate School for information on scholarships, studentships and other financial support options.