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Neuroscience, MPhil, Newcastle University

the United Kingdom

Newcastle University

Study options for this course

The award How you will study Study duration Course start Domestic course fees International course fees
MPhilFull-time12 monthsfind outfind outfind out
MPhilPart-time24 monthsfind outfind outfind out
PhDFull-time36 monthsfind outfind outfind out
PhDPart-time72 monthsfind outfind outfind out
MDFull-time24 monthsfind outfind outfind out
MDPart-time48 monthsfind outfind outfind out

About Neuroscience, MPhil - at Newcastle University

The Institute for Neuroscience has clinicians and scientists working together to understand the brain and behaviour. From the basic biology of neurons through to complex processes of perception and decision-making behaviour, we address how the mind, brain, and body work together and translate this knowledge into clinical applications for patient benefit.

We offer MPhil, PhD and MD supervision in the following research areas:

Motor systems development, plasticity and function

We conduct clinical and preclinical studies of normal and abnormal development and plasticity of the motor system. We run functional studies and computer modelling of motor system activity throughout the neuraxis. We also research the development and assessment of novel therapies for motor disorders/lesions including stem cell and brain-machine interface.

Visual system development, plasticity and repair

We research the development and assessment of novel neuro-technological approaches to retinal dystrophy repair including brain-machine interface and stem cells. We use in vitro approaches to look at retinal development and visual system wiring.

Neural computation and network systems

We conduct experimental and theoretical (computational) studies aimed at understanding how neurones throughout the brain interact in localised networks to compute complex tasks. Our research looks at the role of network activity in a wide range of neurological, neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.

Auditory neuroscience

We conduct clinical and preclinical studies aimed at understanding the brain mechanisms involved in detection, discrimination and perception of sound. We are interested in how these mechanisms are affected in individuals with brain disorders, including dementia, autism and stroke.

Pain

Our research focuses on:

  • understanding mechanisms underlying pain, analgesia, and anaesthesia
  • the development of methods to assess pain and to alleviate pain in animals and humans

Psychobiology

We conduct studies in laboratory animals, healthy volunteers and patient populations investigating the mechanisms underlying mood, anxiety and addiction disorders and their treatment. Allied research looks at normal neuropsychology, and the physiology and pharmacology of neurotransmitter and endocrine systems implicated in psychiatric disorders.

Neurotoxicology

Our research focuses on delineating the effects and understanding the mechanisms of action of established and putative neurotoxins, including environmental and endogenous chemicals, and naturally occurring toxins.

Forensic psychiatry and clinical psychology

Our research covers:

  • the assessment, treatment and management of sex offender risk
  • development and assessment of cognitive models
  • cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) treatment for bipolar disorder, psychosis, anxiety and developmental disorders
  • developmental disorders of perception and cognition

Systems and computational neuroscience

We conduct theoretical (computational) and experimental studies aimed at understanding the neuroanatomy, neuropharmacology of vision, visual attention and episodic memory.

Behaviour and evolution

Many research groups take an evolutionary and comparative approach to the study of brain and/or behaviour, comparing brain function and behaviour among such disparate groups as insects, birds and mammals, and studying the ecological and evolutionary functions of behaviour. Much of our work is at the forefront of the fields of neuroethology, behavioural ecology and comparative cognition, and has important implications for the study and practice of animal welfare.

Visual perception and human cognition

We research:

  • colour and depth perception - perception of natural scenes
  • psychophysics and attention - memory
  • word learning in children
  • body image dysfunction
  • visual social cognition and face processing
  • advertising and consumer behaviour

We encourage applicants to find out more about our staff specialisms on the Institute of Neuroscience's website.

Placements

Several of our PhD studentships require or encourage up to three months internships in a related area, for example in industry, hospital laboratories, or charities.

CASE studentships include a six month placement working with the industrial partner.

Facilities

The Institute of Neuroscience (ION) has well-equipped laboratories and research infrastructure including the new Centre for Translational Systems Neuroscience and the Campus for Ageing and Vitality.

Our imaging technology includes preclinical and clinical PET, fMRI and CT scanners.

We have equipment for techniques including:

  • psychophysics
  • EEG
  • electrophysiology
  • optogenetics
  • microscopy

There is office space, computing facilities and a dedicated student social area.

Read more about ION's facilities.

Notes about fees for this course

See our course fees and funding webpage - http://www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/degrees/neuroscience-mphil-phd-md/#fees&funding

Entry requirements

MPhil

A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in a science or medicine related subject.

PhD

A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent. Further research experience or a Master's degree would be advantageous.

MD

A MBBS, or an equivalent medical degree.

International Students

International Students

To study this course you need to meet the following English Language requirements:

IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all other sub-skills).

Our typical English Language requirements are listed as IELTS scores but we also accept a wide range of English Language tests.

The equivalent academic qualifications that we accept are listed on our country pages.

You may need an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate. You'll need to get this before you can get your visa or study on this programme. We'll let you know about the ATAS requirement in your offer letter.

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