I am recruiting PhD students to join my new lab at the University of Toronto for Fall 2027. We study how brains and artificial neural networks learn from experience, form useful representations, assign credit to past events, and generalize to new situations. Our work combines computational neuroscience, machine learning, mathematical modeling, and neural and behavioral data, and has appeared in PNAS, NeurIPS, ICLR, and ICML.

Research directions include how biological mechanisms support learning from delayed feedback; how neural circuit structure and learning dynamics shape representations, generalization, and continual learning; and methods for inferring learning processes from neural and behavioral data. As one of the founding students, you can begin with a concrete project in one of these directions, with room to bring your own interests into the work and help shape the lab’s culture. You can learn more about our work at helena-yuhan-liu.github.io.

Who should apply: Students from computer science, engineering, statistics, physics, applied mathematics, neuroscience, psychology, and related fields are encouraged to apply. A strong quantitative background and experience with scientific programming are important; applicants should be comfortable with linear algebra, probability/statistics, and computational problem solving. Prior training in neuroscience or psychology is not required. We especially value students who are intellectually curious, creative, self-motivated, and able to take ownership of a project and carry it through to completion.

What we offer: Close, direct mentorship with individualized support for research and career development; interdisciplinary training in computational methods and scientific thinking; and opportunities to present at conferences and publish in machine-learning and neuroscience venues. Students will benefit from U of T’s strengths in AI, neuroscience, and cognitive science, with opportunities to connect and collaborate across disciplines. Toronto combines a vibrant research community with diverse neighborhoods, a lively arts scene, and excellent food.

Admission and funding: This is a funded PhD opportunity through U of T’s Psychology graduate program. The program uses direct admission to a supervisor’s lab. Direct entry from a bachelor’s degree is available for eligible applicants; applicants with a master’s degree are also welcome. The application deadline is December 1, 2026. Please see the program’s application page for application requirements and instructions.

Interested? Please apply through the U of T Psychology PhD program and list me as a prospective supervisor. If you have questions about research fit, feel free to email me with your CV attached.

Best,