The lab of Dr Jian Liu invites applications for several PhD positions at the interface of computational neuroscience and machine learning, at the School of Computer Science and Centre for Human Brain Health at the University of Birmingham. Candidates with a quantitative background are welcome to apply. We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a spirit of intellectual curiosity. The positions will come with competitive work conditions. Generous traveling budgets are available. The following application is approaching the deadline, while other funded projects are open for applicants. Towards a functional model for motor sequence planning Secondary Supervisor(s): Dr Katja Kornysheva <https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/supervisors/kkornysheva> University of Registration: University of Birmingham BBSRC Research Themes: Understanding the Rules of Life (Neuroscience and Behaviour <https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/understanding_the_rules_of_lif...> ) *DDL: 27/11/2025* Project Outline Motor planning, the cognitive process that precedes voluntary movement, is essential for executing skilled actions. Uncovering the neural mechanisms behind motor planning is key to understanding how the brain coordinates complex, sequential behaviours. This research will investigate the neural dynamics involved in motor planning, with an emphasis on how the brain organizes and prepares motor sequences. Previous studies suggest that neural competitive queuing of ordinal structures plays a central role in skilled sequential actions [1], allowing the brain to resolve competition between movements. Furthermore, recent research highlights the use of expansive null-space representations in motor cortex of non-human primate, which prepare movements while preventing premature execution [2]. Building on these insights, this project will explore how neural networks within the brain coordinate motor planning, focusing on exploring neural dynamics in different parts of brain areas. Human recordings conducted at the CHBH provide a rich foundation of experimental data for this study. The data, gathered through different modalities, will inform the development of a theoretical model that is consistent with both these new datasets and previously published results. The project will also involve designing new experiments based on the model’s theoretical predictions to validate or refine the proposed framework. By integrating advanced neural network models, we aim to build a comprehensive modelling framework of motor sequence planning that aligns with experimental findings. These models will provide valuable insights into human motor sequence planning, offering a deeper understanding beyond current non-human primate studies. [1] Kornysheva, et al. Neural competitive queuing of ordinal structure underlies skilled sequential action. Neuron 101, 11-15 (2019) [2] Churchland and Shenoy, Preparatory activity and the expansive null-space. Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 25 (4), 213-236 (2024) *To Apply:* https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/phd/supervisors/jliu The School of Computer Science at the University of Birmingham is one of the leading UK institutions for research and teaching in computer science. Our research is ranked 3rd across all UK universities according to the latest UK-wide Research Excellence Framework. Education is ranked 7th in the UK for computer science, according to 2023 tables. While pursuing excellence in research and education, we also aim to optimize our positive impact on society—examples include collaborations with industry partners and charities, commercialisation activities and an extensive wider participation programme. The University of Birmingham is committed to providing equal opportunities for all and offers a range of family friendly policies. We are committed to being an inclusive workplace that values all staff, and we are happy to consider job share applications and requests for flexible working arrangements from our employees. If female candidates are selected, the maternity leave will be fully guaranteed and the children care responsibilities will be satisfied (e.g. working in part time). We will also actively promote gender equality in education and employment opportunities through workshops, seminars, webinars, and university open days.