Causal Models for Brain Connectivity Analysis in fNIRS

Fully Funded PhD Opportunity for UK Students

Causal Models for Brain Connectivity Analysis in fNIRS

School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham

Start Date: September 2025, January 2026

Funding: UK home tuition + stipend (aligned with UKRI rates)

About the Project

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the School of Computer Science at the University of Birmingham for an exciting project on causal models for brain connectivity analysis using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). This research will develop advanced computational methods to infer brain network dynamics, with applications in neuroscience and clinical diagnostics.

Working at the intersection of machine learning, causal inference, and neuroimaging, you will contribute to cutting-edge research in computational neuroscience, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and an interdisciplinary research environment.

The successful candidate will join our Medical Imaging Lab and work under the supervision of Dr Samuel Montero-Hernandez.

Our lab is currently offering research projects in the following areas but not limited to:

1.    Augmented brain connectivity

2.    Exploring Resting-state Networks in Everyday Life

3.    Exploring Brain Effective Connectivity via Brain Stimulation

4.    Causal Discovery Methods for Effective Brain Connectivity

5.    Machine Learning Methods for Causal Search

Who Should Apply?

• We welcome applications from UK home students with:
• A strong academic background (First-class or 2:1 degree, or MSc) in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Experience or interest in machine learning, causal inference, signal processing, or neuroimaging
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or R
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and problem-solving, and ability to work independently.

Why Choose This PhD?

• Fully funded UK studentship covering tuition and stipend
• Cutting-edge research with real-world neuroscience and healthcare applications
• Access to high-performance computing resources and neuroimaging datasets
• Opportunities to publish, present at leading conferences, and collaborate with experts

How to Apply

Application Deadlines: March 6^th (second call), September 4^th (third call)

Submit your CV and cover letter to s.montero[AT]bham.ac.uk

The studentship is only available to UK home students. International applicants are encouraged to apply through external or self-funded schemes.