PhD Studentship: Post-concussion Syndrome (PCS) Assessment and Intervention

Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI, including sports-related concussions) account for 80% of TBIs, posing a significant global public health concern. While most recover within weeks, up to 30% develop Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS), marked by long-lasting physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioural issues. Objective assessment and interventions are vital.

Current PCS diagnostics and treatments rely heavily on self-reported symptoms, lacking objectivity. Eye movements and pupillometry show potential as biomarkers but need further research. Additionally, treatment for PCS using vestibular rehabilitation techniques has shown promise but further research is also needed. This PhD studentship aims to integrate eye tracking technology for PCS assessment and use VR balance therapy to enhance care.

Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive PCS assessment using eye tracking and pupillometry.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of VR balance therapy for PCS symptom improvement and enhanced quality of life.
• Ascertain whether PCS treatment affects eye tracking and pupillometry measures.

The supervisory team are a multidisciplinary, international research group with expertise in neuropsychology, engineering, movement science, neurophysiology, psychology, rehabilitation science, and sport science. The immediate environment includes state-of-the-art laboratories with technical support. The PhD environment within the School nurtures growth, encourages exploration, and empowers students to reach their full potential as researchers and scholars. The research training environment is therefore optimised to enhance employability post-PhD.

We are seeking a highly motivated student with a background in the psychology, sport, health, medical, computing, or engineering sciences. Candidates with experience relevant to sport-related concussion are strongly encouraged to apply.

The specific project will be tailored to the student’s background however, we are looking for a student with a computing science, psychology, engineering, or physio background. Ability to programme is desired, but not essential. You will be embedded within a strong research team with a focus on concussion research. Precise protocols for the PhD research project will be developed in collaboration with the supervisors.

Candidates should have a Masters degree in a relevant area of study. Students without a Master’s degree should contact Dr Wilcockson for a preliminary discussion.

Entry requirements:

BSc in computer science, psychology, sport science, physio, or engineering: 2.1 minimum
MSc in computer science, psychology, sport science, physio, or engineering.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Funding information:

Fully funded by the University (includes both UK and International)
The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.

Bench fees required:

No

How to Apply:

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number: SSEHS/TWMG in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

Application deadline of 21 July 2024 and study start date of October 2024.

The project is available full time for a duration of 3 years.

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