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Blinded by the load – electrophysiological and pupillometric indices of the interplay between non-spatial and spatial attention

We are continuously bombarded by a potentially overwhelming amount of information around us. However, our brains have limited processing resources and can only process a subset of this information at any one time. This means that our brains continuously need to make strategic choices as to where and on what to focus these limited processing resources. Selective attention is the cognitive process that allows us to do this. As such, selective attention is paramount for our safety and ability to function in everyday life. However, despite its importance to our everyday lives, many questions remain concerning the precise mechanisms underlying this ability as well as the individual and environmental factors that influence it. This project will generate a better understanding of selective attention by systematically investigating the interplay between non-spatial and spatial attention, using an approach that combines behavioural, electrophysiological, and pupillometric measures.

Supervisor's research interests

I am interested in selective attention, with a particular emphasis on the mechanisms and anatomy of selective attention in dynamic multi-target environments (such as traffic environments) that are characterised by high levels of stimulus competition across both visual fields. I completed a combined BSc/MSc in Psychology at the State University of Groningen in The Netherlands. In 2002, I relocated to the UK to do a PhD in Psychology at the University of Nottingham. This was followed by a 12-year stint at the University of Tuebingen in Germany, first as a postdoc and ultimately as a research group leader. In August 2017, I moved back to the UK to join the Division of Psychology at àËÅöÊÓƵ as a lecturer.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:

1. Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
2. Click on the 'Apply here' button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
3. Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.

Good luck!

This is a self funded topic

àËÅöÊÓƵ offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: /research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. àËÅöÊÓƵ alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.

Meet the Supervisor(s)

Bianca De Haan - Cognitive neuroscientist, who studies selective attention in various populations. I completed a combined BSc/MSc in Psychology at the State University of Groningen in The Netherlands. In 2002, I relocated to the UK to do a PhD at the University of Nottingham. This was followed by a 12-year stint at the University of Tuebingen in Germany, first as a postdoc and ultimately as a research group leader. In August 2017, I moved back to the UK to join the Division of Psychology at Brunel University