University of Southampton
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5 days ago
PhD in Neuromorphic Silicon for Non-Invasive EEG Brain–Computer Interfaces University of Southampton in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Competition funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. University Presidential Bursaries may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. School studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis.
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Southampton

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About this position
PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in neuromorphic silicon for non-invasive communication BCIs, with a focus on EEG, brain–computer interfaces, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, computer science, and machine learning.
The project addresses a key bottleneck in EEG-based BCIs: the computing behind decoding. Instead of relying on a laptop or cloud, the research aims to move decoding onto the head using neuromorphic AI hardware. The work includes novel event-based encoding of continuous EEG, spiking/event-driven decoder design for motor imagery, evoked and steady-state responses, and mental-state classification, plus lightweight on-chip learning for better cross-session and cross-subject performance.
Hardware development is a major part of the project: RTL design, FPGA prototyping, and characterisation of accuracy, latency, and power consumption, with possible tape-out if feasible. The project also targets real-time validation on live human EEG in a closed-loop on-device task.
Entry requirements: UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in electronic engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline. Applicants should have strong programming skills in Python and C/C++ or MATLAB, and a solid background in signal processing and machine learning.
Funding: competition-funded PhD project with opportunities for UK and international students. Funding may include fee waivers, Presidential Bursaries, or school studentships covering UK tuition and a living stipend for top-ranked applicants.
How to apply: submit an online application via the University of Southampton portal. Select Research, 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then search for PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092). Include the supervisor name in section 2 and upload your proposal, CV, references, transcripts/certificates, and English language evidence if applicable.
Deadline: 30 November 2026, with funding awarded on a rolling basis so early application is recommended.
Funding details
Competition funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. University Presidential Bursaries may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. School studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis.
What's required
Applicants must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in electronic engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline. Essential skills include strong programming in Python and C/C++ or MATLAB, plus a solid grounding in signal processing and machine learning. English language qualification is required if applicable.
How to apply
Apply online through the University of Southampton portal. Choose Research, 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then select full time or part time and search for PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092). Add the supervisor name in section 2 and upload your proposal, CV, two references, transcripts/certificates, and English language qualification if needed.
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