Funded PhD: High-density fNIRS in Developmental Science – Neural Correlates of Early Executive Functions and Parent-Child Interaction University of Bristol in United Kingdom

This funded PhD opportunity at the University of Bristol focuses on advancing developmental science through the use of high-density functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The project investigates the neural correlates of early executive functions (EFs) and the mediating role of parent-child interaction, leveraging the LUMO system from Gowerlabs for whole-head high-density fNIRS measurements. This technology enables precise mapping of cortical activation in young children, a population often challenging to assess with traditional neuroimaging methods.

Executive functions, including working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, are essential for adaptive behavior. The research is embedded within two large longitudinal studies led by Dr Karla Holmboe, tracking cognitive development from 6 months to 5 years. The project will measure both resting state functional connectivity and task-related activation during validated EF tasks, as well as conduct hyperscanning sessions to explore neural mechanisms underlying parent-child interactions.

The PhD is structured as a joint program: the first 1.75 years are based at the University of Bristol, focusing on data collection and development of analysis pipelines, followed by 1.75 years at Macquarie University in Sydney, emphasizing data analysis and dissemination. The Bristol University Baby Lab (BUBL) is uniquely equipped to use whole-head high-density fNIRS with children under 3 years, and a key aspect of the project is developing LUMO analysis pipelines tailored to this age group. High-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT) will be used to generate three-dimensional functional activation maps, offering spatial resolution comparable to fMRI.

Collaboration with Dr Liam Collins-Jones (University of Cambridge) will support methods development, particularly in HD-DOT analysis. The longitudinal data from approximately 300 children and their parents will provide unprecedented insight into the neural correlates of executive function skills and parent-child interaction across early childhood.

Funding includes a 42-month tuition fee (split between EPSRC funding and Faculty fee waiver), a 21-month stipend at UKRI rates, and a £2,000 annual research training support grant. Macquarie University contributes a 36-month tuition fee scholarship, a 21-month stipend (AUD $39,700 in 2026, indexed), and an airfare allowance up to AUD $4,000. Overseas students must cover the difference between home and overseas fees and clearly state their funding plan in the application.

Eligibility requires meeting admission and scholarship criteria for both institutions, not holding or being matriculated for a doctoral degree elsewhere, and submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) via email to both supervisors. The EOI should include a CV, academic transcripts, and a statement (max 500 words) describing fit for the project. Full applications to both institutions will require a research proposal and personal statement. The deadline for applications is April 19, 2026.

For further information or application queries, contact [email protected]. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in developmental neuroscience, cognitive science, and parent-child interaction, with strong interdisciplinary and international collaboration.