Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 February 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
Merging human beings with artificial intelligence (AI) via brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) is one of the most groundbreaking scientific achievements of the current decade. This technology opens up a myriad of therapeutic applications, such as using thoughts to control robotic limbs, facilitating communication, and managing psychiatric symptoms.
This project focuses on exploring, identifying, and translating potential postoperative vulnerabilities introduced by BCIs. Key areas of concern include agency, autonomy, responsibility, estrangement, identity, privacy, and ownership. By delving into these issues, the project aims to develop new knowledge and understanding of the arguments and claims associated with mind and brain readings.
Additionally, the project will address issues related to neurorights, algorithmic agency, and the autonomy gained through machine learning. These considerations are crucial as BCIs become more integrated into human lives, potentially altering our sense of self and agency.
An exciting aspect of this project is the opportunity to undertake an internship with one of our collaborative partners. This hands-on experience will involve collaborating with colleagues developing and testing BCIs technologies in a lab setting, providing invaluable practical insights and contributing to the advancement of this cutting-edge field.
Overall, this project not only aims to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge but also to ensure that the integration of BCIs into human lives is done ethically and responsibly, safeguarding individual rights and identities.
This project may have a part-time study option available. Some restrictions may apply. Please discuss your preference with the Supervisor and note your preferred study option when applying.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- The project is designed to accommodate applicants from a range of disciplinary areas willing to explore the ethics of brain-computer interfaces, including, neuroethics/bioethics, medical ethics, applied ethics, philosophy, cognitive science, computer science, psychology, neural engineering.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact A/Prof Frederic Gilbert to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 February 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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