Understanding the Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship at the Hamilton Institute

The Maynooth University Faculty of Science and Engineering Doctoral Scholarship, offered at the Hamilton Institute, presents a significant opportunity for aspiring researchers. This fully funded program is designed for individuals keen on exploring cognitive computational neuroscience, decision-making processes, neural network modeling, and human brain research. It provides a structured four-year pathway to earn a doctorate, combining theoretical learning with practical research experience.

The scholarship is attached to the Hamilton Institute and will be supervised by Dr. Peter Murphy from the Department of Psychology. The core of this doctoral program is a research project titled “Identifying the Neurocomputational Basis for Making Decisions Abstracted from Sensation and Action.” This project aims to investigate how the human brain makes decisions that are not directly tied to immediate sensory input or physical actions. It represents an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from cognitive neuroscience, psychology, artificial intelligence, and computational modeling.

Scholarship Benefits and Research Focus

This doctoral scholarship is a comprehensive program, offering substantial support to its recipients. Over four years, it covers full tuition fees and provides an annual student stipend of €25,000. Beyond financial support, the scholarship includes valuable research training through Maynooth University’s Graduate Research Academy. Scholars will gain opportunities to present their findings at various conferences, both locally and internationally, and receive guidance in preparing their work for publication in peer-reviewed journals. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in key areas like neural network modeling, electroencephalography (EEG) studies, and computational neuroscience.

The research project itself delves into understanding the brain’s mechanism for accumulating information over time, which allows for abstract decision-making. This process is crucial for complex thought and action. The PhD research will be structured around three main avenues:

Trained Neural Networks

This area focuses on identifying the specific conditions under which the brain’s ability to accumulate abstract information emerges. Researchers will explore how artificial neural networks can mimic or help understand this cognitive function.

Biologically Constrained Network Modelling

Here, the goal is to investigate how plausible neural systems might implement this abstract decision-making process. This involves creating computational models that are informed by biological data and understanding of brain structures.

Empirical Testing in Humans

This final direction involves validating the predictions made by the computational models. Researchers will conduct behavioral experiments and EEG studies with human participants to observe and measure the brain signals associated with abstract decision-making.

Responsibilities and Study Mode

The successful PhD student will be expected to engage in a variety of research-related activities. This includes conducting computational research using neural network models, designing and analyzing both EEG studies and behavioral experiments, and managing research data in accordance with FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable). Presenting research findings at conferences and local meetings is also a key responsibility, as is preparing draft publications for academic journals. The student will also undertake relevant training and participate in research development programs, working both independently and collaboratively under supervision.

The mode of study is full-time, requiring residency at Maynooth University in Ireland for the entire four-year duration. The research will primarily take place on the Maynooth University campus. Any research conducted outside the campus requires permission from the supervisor and the Head of Department. The scholarship is subject to the terms and conditions of the Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship and the regulations of the Research Student Programme.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be considered for this scholarship, candidates must meet specific academic and experience criteria. Essential requirements include holding a first-class or upper second-class (2.1 honors) undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Psychology, or a related discipline. Prior independent research experience in areas like deep learning, neural networks, behavioral data analysis, or EEG studies is also necessary. Proficiency in quantitative analysis and strong written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory.

Desirable qualifications that would strengthen an application include a Master’s degree in a relevant field with a significant research component. Strong computational skills, particularly in Python and MATLAB, are advantageous. Familiarity with neural network platforms like TensorFlow or PyTorch, experience with GPU or cluster-based computing, and prior experience with human psychophysics and scalp EEG studies would also be beneficial.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit a complete application package. This includes a personal statement, limited to a maximum of 600 words, which should clearly outline the applicant’s motivation and relevant experience. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is also required, detailing education, research experience, quantitative and computational skills, and any publications. Applicants must also provide relevant academic transcripts and the names and contact details of two academic referees.

All application materials should be emailed directly to Dr. Peter Murphy at [email protected]. The subject line of the email must be precisely formatted as: Doctoral Scholarship - Hamilton Institute/Psychology 2026. The deadline for applications is 5 pm on July 1, 2026. It is important to note that non-native English speakers will need to provide proof of their English language proficiency. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship at the Hamilton Institute?

It’s a fully funded, four-year program for doctoral research in cognitive computational neuroscience, decision-making, and neural network modeling, based at the Hamilton Institute.

What are the main benefits of this scholarship?

The scholarship covers full tuition fees, provides an annual stipend of €25,000, and offers valuable research training, conference presentation opportunities, and publication guidance.

What specific research areas does the scholarship focus on?

The research project investigates the neurocomputational basis of decision-making, focusing on trained neural networks, biologically constrained network modeling, and empirical testing in humans using EEG.

What are the key application requirements?

Applicants need a first-class or 2.1 honors degree in a relevant field, prior independent research experience, and strong quantitative and English communication skills. A Master’s degree and computational skills are advantageous.