PhD: Brain Mechanisms Linking Sleep Deprivation and Disrupted Motivation in Health and Parkinson’s Disease

This fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Birmingham investigates the brain mechanisms linking sleep deprivation and disrupted motivation in both healthy individuals and patients with Parkinson’s Disease. Poor sleep and reduced motivation are common and impactful symptoms in neurological conditions, yet their intersection remains poorly understood. This project aims to uncover how sleep quality affects motivational systems in the brain, with a particular focus on Parkinson’s Disease. As a PhD student, you will employ a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing online studies, advanced brain imaging techniques, controlled sleep laboratory protocols, and direct work with patient groups. You will be trained in cutting-edge cognitive computational neuroscience methods, including computational modelling and model-based fMRI, under the guidance of a supervisory team comprising Dr. Matthew Apps, Prof. Clare Anderson, and Dr. Selma Lugtmeijer. The project is embedded within the Motivation and Social Neuroscience lab and the Centre for Human Brain Health, providing access to world-class facilities and a collaborative research environment. The studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council for four years and covers a stipend, tuition fees at both home and international rates, a laptop allowance, research training and support grant (RTSG), and travel allowance. Applications are open to home, EU, and international candidates, though international recruitment is capped at 30% of the cohort due to funder stipulations. Applicants should have a strong academic background in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical science, or a related field. Experience or interest in computational modelling, neuroimaging, or working with neurological patient groups is desirable. The project offers a unique opportunity to develop expertise in both experimental and computational neuroscience, with the potential to impact millions of patients affected by neurological disorders. The application deadline is midday (GMT) on 9 January 2026. Late applications will not be considered. For further information and to access the application form, visit the MRC AIM website at https://more.bham.ac.uk/mrc-aim/phd-opportunities/ . For details about the research group, see www.MSN-lab.com .