International Scholarships for Everyone

UK : PhD Studentships Global Environmental Change and Earth Observation

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:56:00 +0000

University of Southampton - School of Geography

Title: Mapping environmental variables and disease (fully funded)

Supervisor: Professor Pete Atkinson & Prof. Sue Welburn (University of Edinburgh)

Funding Source: Fully funded by the University of Edinburgh and School of Geography, University of Southampton

Closing date: 30 June 2010

Eligibility: All are eligible but International students would need to find the difference between home and overseas fees for the full three years.

The University of Edinburgh and the University of Southampton have funding to support 'Community based interventions against Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis on the Jos Plateau, Nigeria'.

The project offers a unique opportunity to link disease establishment and the ecology of species invasion, providing a framework that may be applied to the study of other vector-borne diseases as regards our understanding of disease establishment and the spatial dynamics of animal and human trypanosomiasis. Environmental conditions in the study sites will be characterised with particular reference to disease challenge.

The student will investigate the environmental gradient from the surrounding lowlands up onto the plateau and provide an objective basis for extrapolating to other regions with similar environmental characteristics, where similar epidemiological conditions are likely to prevail. The student will compile the most detailed and recent information available relating to the distribution of human, livestock and wildlife populations, vegetation patterns, intensity of land use, climatic conditions and location of protected areas. The predictive disease risk mapping capability this will provide will facilitate the assessment and recommendation of appropriate disease control measures at later stages of the project.

High resolution remotely sensed data will be used to map seasonal land-use and land-cover patterns, and vegetation indices such as the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI, an index of vegetation health and abundance will be used to classify areas for tsetse habitat suitability, linking with the tsetse surveys, above). By quantifying the spatial and temporal effects of these ecological drivers, more effective evidence-based control approaches may be identified, leading to targeted approaches to disease control in the resource poor settings in which the disease exists. The interplay between the parasite population and the natural environment described and quantified here may form a basis for better control of other vector-borne infections.

Candidates must have or expect to gain a first or strong upper second class degree, in Geography, or an appropriate related subject. A recognised MSc would be an advantage but is not essential.

Details on how to apply are available from the Graduate School Administrator, School of Geography University of Southampton, SO17 1BJ, Telephone 023 8059 2216, fax 023 8059 3295, email J.A.Drewitt@soton.ac.uk. Informal enquiries may be made to Professor Pete Atkinson (email P.M.Atkinson@soton.ac.uk).

For the latest information on funding opportunities, please visit the Geography website at http://www.geog.soton.ac.uk/.

UK : Seven PhD Bursaries University of Bath - School Of Management

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:53:00 +0000

Value up to £13,200 each

To help support the University of Bath's continuing development of its postgraduate research environment and to provide doctoral training for outstanding individuals seeking to pursue professional academic careers, the School of Management is offering seven 3-year bursaries against tuition fees, each with an annual value of either £4,400 (total over 3 years, £13,200) or £2,200 (total over 3 years, £6,600).

Bursaries are for an autumn 2010 start and are open to international, EU and UK candidates who have both (i) exceptional academic qualifications and (ii) a strong commitment to acquiring a professional doctoral training to be management academics.

Research interests in any field of management will be considered, from exceptional candidates from anywhere in the world, and from any prior disciplinary background.

Applications are welcomed from outstanding graduates who must:

Have, or expect to receive by September 2010, exceptionally good academic qualifications (evidenced by either high GRE or GMAT scores, or high GPAs, or high degree classifications, or similar).
Are fluent in English.
Are strongly committed to, and potentially capable of, high-quality academic research in any of the Subject Groups of the School.

Suitably qualified candidates should apply directly online https://secure.bath.ac.uk/prospectus/cgi-bin/applications.pl attaching as additional documents ALL the following:

1. A single document containing the following and in this order:-

a) A statement up to 200 words of why candidates think they should be awarded a bursary.

b) The names of at least two, but preferably three, School of Management faculty members that applicants think might be appropriate doctoral supervisors for their research interests.

c) A statement up to 200 words of which Subject Group of the School applicants wish to make a research contribution and why they think they will succeed in making such a contribution.

d) An additional statement up to 200 words of why the applicant wants to become a professional management scholar.

2. An original preliminary research proposal written by applicants themselves.

3. A full academic CV, including all schools, colleges and universities attended, along with all grades and other verifiable evidence of academic ability and achievement, plus any working experience, plus the full contact details of at least two academic referees who will be prepared to give references at possibly short notice, and a statement of willingness to be interviewed if short-listed, and proof of English fluency (for non-native English speakers only).

Applications that do not supply all of the above items in full of the three numbered points above will NOT be considered, so do please be sure to send ALL the items requested.

Closing date for applications: Applications will be processed as they arrive, so early application is encouraged. To speed consideration of your application, please ensure that you supply all the above documents.

All applicants are advised to view the School's webpages: http://www.bath.ac.uk/management/

Applicants must be seeking to earn a PhD on a full-time basis. Annual continuation of bursaries will depend on satisfactory academic performance by holders.

For any queries please contact: Research Office, School of Management, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom. Email: pgradmin@management.bath.ac.uk Tel: 44 (0) 1225 386714/386162.

UK : PhD Research Studentship Microbial contamination of contact lenses and associated clinical factors

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:42:00 +0000

Glasgow Caledonian University - Departments of Biological and Biomedical Sciences and Vision Sciences

School of Life Sciences

Supervisors

Dr Sue Lang (Department of Biomedical Sciences, GCU)

Dr Sven Jonuscheit (Department of Vision Sciences, GCU)

The Studentship

The studentship is for a period of three years, subject to satisfactory progress and provides payment of tuition fees at the UK/EU rate plus an annual stipend of £14, 275 (please note that students from outside the EU are required to pay the difference between International and EU fees, currently this would amount to £6,100 per annum). Successful candidates are expected to undertake up to 6 hours of academic support activity per week.

The topic

"Microbial contamination of contact lenses and associated clinical factors"

Contact lens wear is a significant risk factor for the development of acute bacterial eye infections (microbial keratitis). The healthy non-lens wearing ocular surface is frequently exposed to potentially pathogenic microorganisms, yet infections rarely arise. The presence of a foreign object however, such as a contact lens, impairs host defence mechanisms allowing relatively small bacterial inocula to initiate infections. The contact lens surface allows the bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus to form a structure known as a biofilm (a population of bacteria cells within a secreted matrix called extracellular polymeric substance). It is recognised that a bacterial population replicating within a biofilm differs greatly from a free-floating counterpart. Bacteria within a biofilm are physiologically heterogeneous, gene expression and protein synthesis are altered, and the cells become increasingly refractory to antibiotic therapy. This study will investigate the association of contact lens wear and biofilm formation with S. aureus keratitis.

The successful applicant will be able to combine lab-based in vitro studies within a well-resourced and experienced research team engaged in the investigation of staphylococcal biofilms within the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences with relevant clinical research involving in vivo assessments of contact lenses and the human cornea within the Eye Clinic at GCU.

For further details and informal enquiries please contact the supervisors or the postgraduate tutor:

Dr Lang, Lecturer in Microbiology (sue.lang@gcu.ac.uk, 0141 331 8092) or

Dr Jonuscheit, Lecturer in Vision Sciences (sven.jonuscheit@gcu.ac.uk, 0141 331 3059)

Prof Ann Graham, Postgraduate Research Tutor (ann.graham@gcu.ac.uk)

Requirements and further details

Applicants should normally hold a first or upper second class degree in an appropriate subject.

How to apply

An application form can be downloaded from the following web page:

http://www.gcu.ac.uk/graduatecentre/downloads/standard_app_form.doc

All enquiries for further information about how to apply for the above PhD posts and completed applications should be directed to Diane Dickie, Caledonian Graduate Centre, D.Dickie@gcu.ac.uk or 0141 331 8096.

Further information about the School of Life Sciences at GCU is available here:

http://www.gcu.ac.uk/sls/research/

Further information about the Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences is available here:

http://www.gcu.ac.uk/sls/departments/deptofbiologicalbiomedicalsciences/

Further information about the Department of Vision Sciences is available here:

http://www.gcu.ac.uk/sls/departments/deptofvisionsciences/

Closing date for the applications is Friday 16^th July 2010

UK : Psychology PhD studentship Learning and Visual Attention Bangor University - School of Psychology

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:36:00 +0000

Prof Jane Raymond

Closing date: 28th June 2010

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD studentship for 3 years full time study in the School of Psychology at Bangor University (start date Autumn 2010). The School of Psychology in Bangor was ranked 7th among Psychology departments in the UK in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise, based on the quality of its research and academic environment.

The studentship includes payment of UK / EU level tuition fees, a maintenance allowance of approximately £13,290 p.a. and a research allowance of £750 p.a.

Project description

The project will explore the role of learning and motivation on visual attention and social cognition in healthy humans. Recent work from Prof Raymond's lab has shown that learned reward/punishment value associated with complex stimuli (e.g., faces) changes the way information is attended, perceived, remembered, and emotionally evaluated. The project will explore these effects in more detail with a specific emphasis on how reward and expectation modulate visual processing mechanisms in the brain. The project will involve EEG/ERP, behavioural approaches (chronometry and psychophysics) and/or fMRI, depending on the student's interests. Avenues for exploration include cognitive genetic phenotyping, addiction, and manipulation of emotional states.

Requirements

Applicants must have a first or upper second-class honours degree in Psychology or equivalent and we would normally expect applicants to have completed an appropriate Masters degree. International students are welcome to apply. However, our studentships only cover fees at the UK / EU level. The School offers a fee bursary of up to £4500 per annum for exceptional international students.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Raymond j.raymond@bangor.ac.uk

For details on how to apply please visit our website http://www.bangor.ac.uk/psychology/postgraduate/studentships. The closing date for applications is the 28th June 2010. Short-listed candidates will be interviewed.

Committed to Equal Opportunities

UK : Research Studentship UK Airspace Regulation In an Era of Privatisation and Commercialisation

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:35:00 +0000

Loughborough University - Department of Civil and Building Engineering

The Transport Studies Group within the Department of Civil and Building Engineering at Loughborough University invites applications from highly capable and enthusiastic individuals who wish to study for a PhD in the area of UK airspace regulation. The unprecedented and recurrent closure of UK and much of northern European airspace, in the spring of 2010 following the eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland, demonstrated the economic importance of airspace and highlighted the legal and geopolitical complexities involved in its regulation. The UK was particularly affected by the closure. Hundreds of flights were grounded or delayed, thousands of passengers had their travel plans disrupted, and airlines, airport operators, and tourist authorities reported multi-million pound losses.

The recriminations that followed the decision to close UK airspace brought issues of (inter)national airspace governance into sharp relief and indicated the scale of disruption any future airspace closures might cause. Though an in-depth empirical investigation into the political, legal, and commercial decisions that informed the UK's response to the volcanic eruption, this research project will investigate the complex interactions that exist between aviation regulators, airlines, airports, air navigation service providers, and air transport consumer groups in the UK and explore the extent to which the progressive privatisation and commercialisation of the UK's aviation infrastructure has changed practices of airspace regulation and governance. Working with Dr Lucy Budd and Professor Stephen Ison, the successful applicant will explore the implications of the current regulatory regime and will seek to help safeguard the future resilience of the UK airspace network by enabling stakeholders to better prepare for, and respond to, future disruption.

Funding and Eligibility

The studentship is for three years and cover fees and a tax-exempt stipend (£13,590 for the 20010/11 academic year with cost of living adjustments in years 2 and 3). Tuition fees will be paid at the UK/EU rate. Candidates from countries outside of the EU will be liable for the difference between ‘home student fees' and international student fees. Applicants will need to complete the Loughborough University on-line application form (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/prospectus/pg/essential/apply/index.htm).

Applicants should preferably have a Masters degree in air transport management, human geography, economics, or a cognate discipline or a minimum of a 2.1 honours degree (or equivalent) at Bachelor level. Applicants will be judged on their academic experience, their understanding of the proposed research area, and their references. On the application form, please state under ‘additional information' that the application relates to the ‘UK airspace' research studentship.

Closing Date for Applications: Friday 16th July 2010

Additional Information: For informal enquiries contact Dr. Lucy Budd (L.C.S.Budd@lboro.ac.uk) or Professor Stephen Ison (S.G.Ison@lboro.ac.uk).

Further information about the studentship can be obtained by contacting:

Ms Helen Newbold,
Research Administrator,
Department of Civil and Building Engineering,
Loughborough University

E-mail: H.Newbold@lboro.ac.uk

UK : PhD Studentship Oxford Brookes University - Department of Computing and Electronics

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:33:00 +0000

UK : PhD Studentship: Nonlinear Signal Processing And Modelling In Diabetes And The Metabolic Syndrome

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:32:00 +0000

University of Southampton - School of Engineering Sciences

Ref: SES-74-141

A PhD studentship is available in the Computational Engineering & Design research group, School of Engineering Sciences (SES), which fully covers University tuition fees (at EU/UK level**) and provides a tax-free bursary of £13,600 per year, rising annually in line with the UK Government (EPSRC) recommended rate, for a 3-year duration. **EU/UK fees £3500 p.a., Overseas fee 15,500 p.a. (figures to be confirmed, and subject to annual increase).

UK applicants and EU-eligible applicants are eligible for full funding

Eligible overseas applicants will be expected to pay the fees difference of £12,000 from other sources.

Project description:

There are currently over 200 million people worldwide, and 2 million people in the UK alone, affected by diabetes. Overall, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes and related diseases, such as obesity and cardiovascular disease is rising at an alarming rate, worldwide, prompting the WHO to refer to this as an epidemic. Model systems that can be manipulated and studied at a functional and/or physiological level will help to develop a better understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of these conditions. The aim of this research is therefore to investigate the application of a range of nonlinear systems modelling techniques to a variety of physiological data sets from a number of clinical and other studies. This will include such data as blood-glucose, lipid and cholesterol levels, vascular flow measurements, insulin/glucose sensitivity tests, age, gender and lifestyle profiling along with the identification of candidate modelling strategies together with analysis of their predictive capabilities. This project, in conjunction with the School of Medicine, would suit a talented numerate graduate able to work alongside clinicians, scientists and engineers in all stages of the study.

The School of Engineering Sciences has an international reputation for research excellence, and is a diverse community, committed to creating an inclusive working and learning environment in which all individuals are equally treated and valued, and can achieve their potential. The School considers all studentship applications in relation to academic criteria and regardless of the individual's race, nationality, gender, or belief.

Entry requirements: Candidates will have a first class or upper second class degree in relevant disciplines, Engineering, Mathematics or Analytical Sciences.

Commencing 1 October 2010

Closing date for applications: a rolling deadline applies.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Andrew Chipperfield , Computational Engineering/Biomedical Engineering research group, Email: A.J.Chipperfield@Soton.ac.uk , Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 8344.

How to apply: http://www.soton.ac.uk/ses/courses/pg/pgapply.html

Please read the notes carefully before applying. Applications will only be considered on receipt of a completed application form.

You can attach your supporting documents to the on-line application. If you are unable to do this, please send by email to Julia Zimbler jfz@soton.ac.uk (or send by fax or post if you are unable to send them electronically):

Julia Zimbler, Postgraduate Admissions, Graduate School Office, School of Engineering Sciences, Room 4009, Lanchester Building, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK.

Fax: +44 (0) 2380 59 5167.

Please ensure you include a personal statement in your application, stating why you particularly want to do a PhD, why you think you are suited to a research degree and what particularly attracts you to this project.

Please also visit www.soton.ac.uk/ses for further information about the School and its research activities.

UK : PhD Studentship in Physical Objects as Intermediary Objects in Design

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:29:00 +0000

Open University - Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology, Department of Design, Development, Environment and Materials

UK : 2 Full-Time PhD Studentships University of Surrey - The School of Law

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:27:00 +0000

UK : PhD Studentship Medical Physics and Medical Engineering Applications of Electrocardiography and Imaging to the Assessment of Heart Dynamics

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:27:00 +0000

Newcastle University - Institute of Cellular Medicine

Reference Code: CL034

Closing Date: 30th June 2010

Supervisors: Dr A Sims, Dr P Langley, Professor A Murray

Institute: Institute of Cellular Medicine

Sponsor: Regional Medical Physics and Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University

Duration of the award: 3 years

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the UK. Physics and engineering are key skills required for solving many of the problems associated with cardiovascular disease. From greater understanding of disease processes through data analysis and computer modelling, to the development of diagnostic and therapeutic devices and assistive technologies, physics and engineering play a major role.

The Cardiovascular Physics and Engineering Group has a significant international reputation in this area. With expertise ranging from advanced biomedical signal processing and image analysis to device development, we offer along with our collaborators in Medical Physics and Cardiology a stimulating environment in which important clinical cardiovascular problems can be addressed.

For this PhD studentship we are looking for an outstanding candidate with good physics/engineering background who is highly motivated to undertake a challenging research project linking electrocardiography and imaging to provide diagnostic information on heart dynamics. The PhD studentship will provide training in a broad range of research skills and is the ideal launchpad for a career in the biomedical engineering industry or academic research.

Value of the Award and Eligibility

The studentship is available to UK, EU or international students. The award covers EU/UK tuition fees (£4,325, which can be used as a contribution to international fees) and an annual stipend of £13,489.

Person Specification

You should have, or expect to achieve, a minimum of an upper-second-class Honours degree in physics, engineering or related discipline. We also welcome applications from candidates with a relevant Master's award.

How to Apply

You must complete the University's postgraduate application form. Select "Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences) - Cellular Medicine" as the programme of study. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number CL034.

Closing date for applications: 30 June 2010

Further Information

For more details, please contact Dr A Sims andrew.sims@nuth.nhs.uk, Dr P Langley, philip.langley@ncl.ac.uk, Professor A Murray alan.murray@ncl.ac.uk

Details of the research undertaken at Newcastle into Cardiovascular Physics and Engineering are available online at http://research.ncl.ac.uk/cardio_phys_eng/

UK : Barham Benevolent Foundation Research Studentship Harper Adams University College

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:55:00 +0000

UK : PhD Studentship Mechanical Strain of Keratinocyte Stem Cells and Regulation of Stem Cell Migration

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:53:00 +0000

Newcastle University - Institute of Cellular Medicine

Reference Code: CL030

Closing Date: 18th July 2010

Supervisors: Dr J Reichelt, Professor N Reynolds, Professor M Taggart

Institute: Institute of Cellular Medicine

Sponsor: Institute of Cellular Medicine/Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University

Duration of the award: 3 years

Keratinocyte stem cells regulate epidermal homoeostasis. Wounding stimulates them to exit their niche, proliferate and participate in wound closure. Recent data showed that keratinocyte stem cells are also activated in hyperproliferative psoriatic epidermis and psoriasis may be provoked by mechanical trauma to skin (Koebner phenomenon). The signalling mechanisms involved in activating keratinocyte stem cells to migrate out of their niche and proliferate are not well characterised.

Keratinocytes are able to sense mechanical strain and transform it into biochemical signals. Mechanical signal transduction implies an intact cytoskeleton as well as cell-cell and cell-matrix contacts. The literature on mechanical signalling in keratinocytes is based on results using differentiated keratinocytes whereas the response of keratinocyte stem cells has not yet been studied. Studies involving other types of stem cells support the hypothesis that mechanical load regulates self-renewal, lineage commitment and migration of stem cells. The aim of the project is to test the hypothesis that mechanical stress regulates KSC function in a 3D context, relevant to wound healing.

The interdisciplinary research project involves biomedical and biophysical sciences.

Value of the Award and Eligibility

The studentship covers UK/EU tuition fees and provides an annual stipend at the Research Council UK rates (was £13,290 per year in 09/10). International applicants may apply but will need to source additional funding to cover the difference between UK/EU tuition fees and international tuition fees.

Person Specification

You should have, or expect to achieve an MSc or MRes in a relevant biological sciences subject. This studentship is available to UK, EU or international students. If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS or equivalent of 7.0 or above.

How to Apply

You must complete the University's postgraduate application form. Select Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences) - Cellular Medicine" as the programme of study. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number CL030.

Closing date for applications 18th July 2010

Further Information

For further details, please contact Dr Julia Reichelt, julia.reichelt@ncl.ac.uk, +44 (0) 191 222 5074.

PhD Studentships University of Glasgow - Department of Economics

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:52:00 +0000

The Department of Economics, University of Glasgow invites applications for two fully funded PhD studentships (UK/EU/International fees and bursary) for doctoral research.

Applications are sought from exceptionally well-qualified individuals in the area of macroeconomics. Topics of particular interest are: the interaction of monetary and fiscal policy, the application of numerical techniques for solving quantitative problems in macroeconomic policy design and the impact of commitment and discretion in policy outcomes. Applicants will have a Masters degree in economics or have excellent technical qualifications in areas such as mathematics, statistics or related fields.

The successful PhD students can expect to be supervised by Professor Charles Nolan. The studentships will be available for study beginning in September 2010 for a threeyear period on a full-time basis.
Professor Charles Nolan: was educated at the University of Strathclyde and Birkbeck College, University of London. He worked for eight years as an economist at the Bank of England. He has formerly taught at University of Reading, University of Durham, and University of St Andrews. He is a member of the European Monetary Forum. His research interests are quantitative general equilibrium macroeconomics and monetary theory, international finance and business cycle analysis. He has several publications in highly regarded journals, including Econometrica, Journal of Monetary Economics, Journal of Money, Credit, and Banking and Economic Journal.
Postgraduate research: All postgraduate research students are provided with dedicated office space and a PC. Students have the opportunity to present their work at a PhD workshop series and to attend the Department's research seminars, which showcase invited speakers from the UK and Europe. Students benefit from research methods courses offered by the Faculty of Law, Business and Social Sciences and may, where appropriate, attend relevant MSc courses. RAE 2008 places the Department of Economics at Glasgow joint 11th in the UK and top in Scotland on the basis of GPA and research income and ranks all research as being of international quality: 75% is considered to be world-leading and internationally excellent.
The award: The studentship holder will receive an annual bursary (£13,649 per annum) in addition to payment of full fees at the UK/EU/International rate for three years.
Teaching fellowships: Successful applicants will become Teaching Fellows in the Department. As a part of their duties, they will be expected to teach up to 100 hours of tutorials per year in economics (normally undergraduate). Appropriate training will be provided for this purpose.
Applicants: Potential applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree and have/expect to achieve a Masters degree with excellent grades in a
relevant subject from a UK university or comparable qualifications from another
recognised university.
Application procedure: Email Jane Brittin (J.Brittin@lbss.gla.ac.uk), Postgraduate Secretary in the Department of Economics, stating that you wish to be considered for the studentship. The closing date for applications is 10th August 2010.

UK : Fully funded International PhD Scholarships Faculty of Engineering University of Nottingham - University of Nottingham & Virginia Tech (USA)

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:51:00 +0000

Applications are invited for two fully-funded PhD scholarships (fees and living costs) to undertake research in the areas of Transportation Engineering or Power Electronics at the University of Nottingham (UK) with approximately one year of their research program studying at Virginia Tech (USA). Competition for these scholarships is expected to be very strong because each brings the opportunity for students to study with world-leading research groups in both countries.

Areas in which applications are invited:

TRANSPORTATION

Sustainability assessment of the construction and maintenance of transport infrastructure: This might include research questions concerning the application of environmental life cycle assessment or multicriteria decision making to infrastructure systems.
Asset management of transport infrastructure: Data handling, deterioration modelling, integration of environmental criteria including carbon footprint.
Condition monitoring of transport infrastructure: Challenges include repeatable location referencing, data quality, and use of private vehicle data.
Road surface condition and safety: Understanding the combined role of road geometry and condition in crash studies and prevention, impact on driver behavior.
Low-carbon, environmentally-friendly construction materials. Laboratory synthesis or manufacture and characterisation of materials derived from renewable, waste or recycled feedstocks.

POWER ELECTRONICS

Electrical Systems in Aerospace (More Electric Aircraft): Power conversion technologies for high power density and high reliability converters - includes conversion topologies, thermal management, packaging and integration and reliability studies. Aircraft electrical network analysis and modelling - includes power quality and stability issues for AC, DC and hybrid systems.
Smart Grids: High power converters for grid applications - including converter topologies and advanced grid interfacing strategies. Converters for DC grid systems and multi-terminal HVDC systems.
Renewable Energy: Power conversion technologies for integration of renewable energy sources - includes converters for interfacing sources and energy storage and energy management control strategies.
Power conversion: In addition to the applications above, opportunities exist to work on new generic power conversion concepts and topologies and their control.

Students are expected to have a Masters-level qualification at the highest level. They must have good English and be eligible to study in both countries or be able to obtain a visa for the country (ies) where they are not.

These studentships will be available for a start date between August and September 2010.

Applications, consisting of a full CV/bio, a transcript of your academic progress to date and a one page Masters' project summary (the summary should describe a research-style project performed by you, showing your role and the lessons you learned, this will be used to assess your appreciation of, and suitability for, research) and the names of three referees who can give an assessment of your suitability, should be sent (via Email) to, for Power Electronics, Laura Sun, Email: laura.sun@nottingham.ac.uk, or for Transportation, Andrew Dawson, Email: andrew.dawson@nottingham.ac.uk. Short-listed applications will be shared between colleagues at both universities. Final acceptance onto the program will require students to submit a formal application to the University.

Please quote ref: ENG/416.

Closing date: 18 July 2010 (for an August-October 2010 start although late applications will be considered for 2011 entry).

For all our vacancies and more about working at the University of Nottingham see: http://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/.

UK : International Fee Waiver Studentship Molecules Get Wired: Towards Spin-Polarized Transport Through A Single Molecule

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:48:00 +0000

University of Hull - Department of Physics (in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry)

UK : PhD Studentship Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Legume-based Systems Scottish Agricultural College

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:43:00 +0000

Scottish Agricultural College and University of Edinburgh

It is well established that legume crops could play a key role in sustainable cropping systems. They contribute more to the farming system than simply the harvested part: they fix atmospheric nitrogen into forms available for plant metabolism, they break the cycles of diseases that attack the major cereal crops, and they can replace other food, feed, fibre and fuel crop products that are imported from other continents. Nevertheless, they are under-represented in European agriculture, and this research aims to remedy this situation. The consequences of growing a range of legume crops will be systematically quantified agronomically, ecologically and economically in order that an optimum usage of legumes can be defined for each of the major European agricultural zones. The basis of the PhD will be to understand and extrapolate to an EU scale using dynamic and deterministic modelling techniques that measure greenhouse gas emissions from legume rotations.

This postgraduate position is for three years, with a proposed start date of September 2010, ending September 2013.

The successful candidate must have or expect to obtain a minimum of an upper second class degree in a scientific discipline from a UK University or equivalent. They should ideally have demonstrated ability in using biological models, statistical techniques, an understanding of soil processes, and be familiar with computer software and data handling packages. Oral and writing skills in English are required to a high standard. A clean and valid European driving license is desirable.

The studentship offers a stipend of £13290 per annum. The full award (stipend and fees) is available to EU Citizens only, however, non-EU students will be considered. The student will be based at the SAC, King's Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG.

Application packs are available from Frances Stratford (frances.stratford@sac.ac.uk) quoting reference SAC/52740019/Topp .

For further particulars or to have an informal discussion about this studentship, contact Dr Kairsty Topp, kairsty.topp@sac.ac.uk (0131 535 4026) or Dr Bob Rees Bob.rees@sac.ac.uk

(0131 535 4365) SAC, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG.

Closing date for the return of applications is 12 noon on 27 July 2010.

UK : PhD Studentship Alcohol use in middle aged adults

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:39:00 +0000

University of Worcester - Institute of Health and Society

Applications are invited for a fully-funded full-time studentship on alcohol use in middle aged and older adults.

Although the level of alcohol abuse in the middle/old aged population has been estimated there is little evidence on the attitudes of such a group towards alcohol, drinking and the potential public health messages. In response to this increased prevalence, interventions aimed at changing drinking behaviour have been developed although these have been rather parsimonious in their approach and reach.

The purpose of this cross sectional study is to examine alcohol consumption in middle and late adulthood. Specifically to establish: a) level of consumption of alcohol in the target populations; b) to explore views and attitudes towards drinking in both middle aged and older adults; c) to explore any potential differences between rural and urban areas for both levels of consumption and views and attitudes regarding drinking alcohol and d) develop, deliver and evaluate potential public health interventions for such a population.

This PhD studentship is being supported by both the University of Worcester and the Worcester Public Health Directorate.

The student will carry out a research project that will, on successful completion, lead to the award of a higher research degree (PhD). The student will be expected to carry out their individual research study under the direction of Dr Penney Upton, Director of Studies along with colleagues from the University and the local Public Health Directorate.

Applicants should preferably have a good first degree in Health, Psychology or related discipline although applicants from other subject disciplines may be considered. Excellent oral and written English are a must, as are a commitment and enthusiastic approach to completing a higher research degree. The successful applicant will receive a tax free bursary of £12,300 per annum from the University of Worcester plus a limited budget to support their research. Fees will be paid in full at the UK/EU rate for home and EU citizens. Overseas students are welcome to apply but will need to fund the balance of fees for Overseas Research Students.

For further details visit: http://www.worc.ac.uk/research/studentships
Application forms can be found here: http://www.worc.ac.uk/research/studentships
For an informal discussion about the studentship please feel free to contact on +44 1905 855517 or by email to d.upton@worc.ac.uk.

For questions regarding the application process contact Mrs Helen Tabinor, Graduate Research School Manager (tel: 01905 855012, email: h.tabinor@worc.ac.uk).

Closing date for applications is 5th July 2010.

Candidates will be invited for interview on 19th July 2010.

UK : Master of Engineering (MEng)

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:38:00 +0000

In Mechanical Engineering

University of Limerick

OLLSCOIL LUIMNIGH

IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

The University of Limerick is located on the banks of the River Shannon in Ireland at the heart of the 640 acre National Technological Park, approximately 5 km from the centre of Limerick city. The University accommodates some 12,500 students.

The Masters course (MEng) in Mechanical Engineering is based in the Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering. This course will provide training in advanced topics in Mechanical Engineering and was developed in response to the decision of Engineers Ireland that a Master's degree in an engineering discipline will be the minimum educational standard for Chartered Engineer status for students graduating in 2013.

The main aim of the programme is to equip graduates with a detailed knowledge of advanced methods in mechanical engineering, including theoretical foundations, computational and experimental methods and engineering applications.

PROGRAMME OF STUDY

The programme spans a single academic year (three semesters) and requires full time attendance on campus. For the first two semesters students will study a mandatory set of core subjects and a suite of optional advanced subjects (electives). Students will engage in a research project over all three semesters with submission of a research project (thesis) at the end of semester 3. Research in the Department covers a wide range of topics-the Department has strong links with two leading research institutes: the Materials and Surface Science Institute and the Stokes Institute. The Department also houses research centres in Automation, Biomedical Engineering Wave Energy, Biofuels, Composite Materials and Computational Fluid and Solid Mechanics and. Further details of research fields in the department are available at the department web page, www.ul.ie/mae.

SEMESTER 1

Fundamentals of Continuum Mechanics

Research Project

Advanced Technical Communication for Engineers

Three specialist electives to be chosen from:

Non-linear Finite Element Analysis

Scientific Computation

Advanced Computer Aided Design

Composite Materials

Computational Fluid Dynamics

Advanced Mechanics of Solids

Fuels and Energy Conversion

Project Planning and Control

SEMESTER 2

Research Project

Two specialist electives to be chosen from:

Renewable Energy Technologies

Fracture Mechanics

Advanced Computational Fluid

Engineering Mechanics of Plastics and Composites

Boundary Layer Theory

SEMESTER 3

Research Project (30 credits)

To graduate from the programme a student must accumulate 90 credits, comprising 45 credits of taught modules and 45 credits of research work, as outlined in the Table. Credit may be given for prior learning, with the agreement of the Course Director.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

The minimum entry requirement to the programme is a 2.2 Honours Bachelor's undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, or closely related field. For international students, the entry equivalent will be accepted as determined by the Course Director in consultation with UL Graduate School Admissions. Where applicants are non-native English language speakers, certified achievement in TOEFL or IELTS Standard English Language Competency Test will be required. An interview may be part of the admission process.

FEES

Information on fees and semester dates is available from the university webpage www.ul.ie/finance.

CONTACT

For further information please visit the department web-page, www.ul.ie/mae or contact the Course Director:

Prof. Noel O'Dowd

Email: noel.odowd@ul.ie

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply online at www.url.ie/4hwk.

Postgraduate Admissions Contact:

Postgraduate Admissions Office

Graduate School

University of Limerick

Limerick, Ireland

Telephone: +353 (0)61 234 377

Fax: +353 (0)61 233 287

Email: postgradadmissions@ul.ie

Web: www.graduateschool.ul.ie

UK : MSc in Water and Environmental Management (WEM) 2010/2011

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:37:00 +0000

University of Bristol - Department of Civil Engineering

This MSc programme provides academic and practical training for Engineers and Scientists with a special interest in management of water and the environment. The course is delivered by academics from Bristol's renowned Department of Civil Engineering, and leading practitioners from industry.

The main aim of the WEM programme is to provide graduates with a sound knowledge and fundamental understanding of integrated water and environmental management. This includes considering the relationships between human activity and the environment, and quantifying the impacts of human activities, and the technical and socio-economic approaches for preventing and controlling adverse environmental impacts.

The course is particularly suitable for graduates who wish to pursue a career in the Water Industry, Environmental Management, or International Development. Past graduates have found employment in consultancies, companies in the pharmaceutical and engineering sectors, environmental regulators, local authorities and other public sector bodies.

The MSc course consists of four core modules, four optional modules for students to select from a broad range of subject areas, and four months' individual research towards a thesis. Modules are taught through lectures, group tutorials, and private study, with field visits, and are assessed through a combination of exams and assignments.

All modules are allocated two weeks of study time: one week for timetabled activity and the other for private study and preparation of assignments. Timetabled activities are available to be taken as short-courses to meet CPD requirements.

Entrance requirements

A minimum of a second-class Honours degree, or an international equivalent, in an engineering or science subject. Other qualifications or relevant professional experience will also be considered. Applicants whose first language is not English normally require IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 92, or equivalent.

Core Modules

Environmental Quality
Environmental Systems
Environmental Management
Environmental Policy and Regulation

Optional Modules

Water Supply and Sanitation in Developing Countries
River Engineering
Environmental Systems
Waste and Contaminated Land Management
Potable Water Treatment
Environmental Management
Operational Management and Customer Service
Waste Water Treatment Processes
Environmental Policy and Regulation
Industrial Environmental Management
Water Resources
Water Pollution Prevention and Control
Air Quality
Coastal Engineering and Shoreline Management
Ecology and Ecosystems

For further information please contact philippa.salsbury@bristol.ac.uk.

USA: PhD Research Positions in Computational Nanomechanics at the University of Pittsburgh

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:28:00 +0000

Several PhD research positions are currently open in the Computational Nanomechanics Group at the University of Pittsburgh for the following research projects:

1. Thermomechanical behavior of carbon-based nanomaterials
2. Atomistic-to-continuum themomechanical theory in solids
3. Mechanics of nanoporous and nanocrystalline metals

Successful applicants will carry out challenging research projects in a highly intellectual and dynamic environment under the guidance of Professor Albert C. To. The computational tools the group employs include molecular dynamics simulations, first-principles methods, Monte Carlo simulations, and finite element/meshfree methods. The computational resources the group has access include a brand new 800-core cluster (shared with other research groups at Pitt) and a 24-core cluster. In addition, the group has access to the state-of-the-art computing facilities at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center (www.psc.edu).

Highly self-motivated individuals interested in computational nanomechanics and multiscale modeling and simulations are encouraged to apply. Applicants should possess good programming and computer skills in general. Interested applicants should email Professor Albert C. To (albertto[ at ]pitt.edu) their resume, which project(s) they are interested in, and their past research works (if any), and future career goals. Questions regarding these positions are welcome and should be directed to Professor To.

UK: PhD Scholarship in the Field of Medical Engineering at Queen Mary, University of London

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:27:00 +0000

EPSRC PhD scholarship for a home (i.e. UK) student to work with Prof. Wen Wang in School of Engineering and Materials Science and his colleagues at Williams Harvey Research Institute in Queen Mary, University of London on ‘Targeted delivery and release of selective matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors in designated diseased tissues’

Details: Many tissues in our body produce enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases. These enzymes are required for the normal functions of the tissues, but when produced in excessive quantities, they can cause damage to the tissues, leading to diseases such as atherosclerosis, cancer and arthritis. This project will develop novel ways for nanoencapsulation, delivery and site specific release of MMP inhibitors that can dampen the enzymatic activity specifically to diseased tissues. It can be used to improve the efficacy and minimize adverse effects of such agents for treatment of the diseases mentioned above.

Award: EPSRC PhD scholarship for 3 years
Starting date: September 2010
Candidates: Bioengineering and related subjects (home students only)

Appl Deadline: 25 June 2010

Contact:
Wen Wang,
PI of project,
Professor of Biomedical Engineering
Queen Mary University of London
wen.wang[ at ]qmul.ac.uk

Italy: Doctoral Research Fellowships, the Fondazione Edmund Mach

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:27:00 +0000

the Research and Innovation Centre of the Fondazione Edmund Mach is pleased to inform you of the following open job and training opportunities:
1. Research fellowship to support a PhD in Diversity, impact and fate of cyanobacterial toxins in freshwater ecosystems (061_AMB_DCT) - open until the 11th July 2010;

2. Research fellowship to support a PhD in Ecology of cyanobacteria and Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (060_AMB_DEC) - open until the 11th July 2010;

3. Research fellowship to support a PhD in Paleo-Ecology of European lakes (059_AMB_DPEEL) - open until the 26th June 2010;

For more information:
http://www.fmach.eu/CRI_work_with_us

Spain: Fully Financed PhD Opportunity, Research Assistant Positions, IMDEA Networks

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:26:00 +0000

NEW CALL FOR FULLY FUNDED RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
IMDEA Networks is a networking research institute whose multinational team is engaged in cutting edge fundamental science. As a growing, English-speaking institute located in Madrid, Spain, IMDEA Networks offers a unique opportunity for pioneering scientists to develop their ideas. Our researchers share the potential to shape the future of networking science over the coming years.

Further information regarding our areas of research can be found at this page.

As funded members of our team, successful applicants will join the Ph.D. program at University Carlos III of Madrid, beginning September/October 2010. They will also benefit from full financial support throughout their Ph.D. program for up to four years.

Successful candidates should have:

B.Sc., M.Sc. or equivalent in Telematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or a related field**
Excellent academic transcripts
Clearly defined Statement of Purpose for Ph.D. research thesis
Excellent level of spoken and written English
Highly motivated
Students who obtained their degree (B.Sc., M.Sc. or equivalent) in a higher education system NOT subject to the Bologna Process are strongly advised to provide their GRE scores on the online application form

** An offer of a Research Assistant position implies your acceptance to the UC3M Ph.D. program.

APPLY NOW THROUGH OUR ONLINE FORM AT WWW.NETWORKS.IMDEA.ORG

CANDIDATES WILL BE EVALUATED AS SOON AS THEIR APPLICATION IS RECEIVED

Switzerland : PhD Position in Computer Science, University of Lausanne

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:25:00 +0000

The Distributed Object Programming Lab (DOPLab), at the University of Lausanne, is opening a PhD position in computer science, specialization in mobile distributed systems, coupled to an assistant position at 100%. The DOPLab is part of the Information Systems Institute (ISI) of HEC Lausanne.
Work location: University of Lausanne, Switzerland

Supervisor: Prof. Benoît Garbinato

Starting date : September 1, 2010.

PhD duration : 3 years.

Further information:
http://www.hec.unil.ch/dop/phd_pos_english.pdf

Australian Leadership Awards Scholarships 2011

noreply@blogger.com (uratho) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:23:00 +0000

Deadline: June 30, 2010

The Australian Leadership Awards (ALA) aim to develop leadership and build partnerships and linkages within the Asia-Pacific, while addressing priority development issues of the region. The ALA program comprises ALA Scholarships and ALA Fellowships. These awards are for leaders or those who have potential for leadership roles that can influence social and economic reform, both in their own countries and in the Asia-Pacific region.

ALA Scholarships are for study at Masters or Doctorate level in an Australian university. Study programs must relate to a priority development area: disability, economic growth, education, environment, food security, gender, governance, health, human rights, infrastructure, regional stability, rural development, water and sanitation. ALA scholars also undertake a Leadership Development Program in Australia.

As ALA Scholarships are an investment in the future of the Asia-Pacific region, ALA scholars are required to return to their home country or the region for two years after they have completed their studies in Australia.

Selection for ALA Scholarships is competitive, based on leadership qualities, academic excellence and potential impact on return home.
Applications for the 2011 intake open on 10 March 2010 and close on 30 June 2010

Click here for more information about Australian Leadership Awards Scholarships 2011