About the Project
This study aims to examine how vision science can be used to enhance skilled performance – in the context of golf putting. Golf putting provides an ideal context in which to apply the methods and knowledge generated by vision science. Putting is highly skilled and provides a relatively constrained behavioural task (repeatedly trying to putt a ball in a hole) where variability in performance really matters (being slightly better at putting can make the difference between being an also-ran golfer…
and being an elite championship winner). Our aim is to demonstrate that knowledge from vision science can be used to help elite golfers perform better, whilst also testing theoretical accounts of the dynamic visual processes that underpin complex real-world skilled behaviours.
To perform optimally when putting the brain needs to modulate its information processing in response to variations in the environment, for example caused by changes in stimulus properties (e.g., the angle, distance or slope of the putt) or by changes in the psychological state of the golfer (e.g., due to competitive pressure). The current project will test interventions aimed at enhancing sports performance – using mobile eye-tracking technology to monitor golfers’ visual processing whilst putting. Interventions will be developed that allow knowledge from vision science to be applied, for example by examining the consequences of different visual routines (fixation patterns, green reading skills, etc) on putting accuracy and success. The project builds on a collaboration between SportScotland (the national body that manages elite sports in Scotland) and researchers at the University of St Andrews, providing the use of a professional indoor putting green, state-of-the-art mobile eye-tracking and EEG technology, and access to elite golfers.
The PhD student will test models of human vision and skilled performance and translate knowledge to the applied setting of golf putting. They will learn about experimental design, data capture methods and advanced behavioural analysis techniques. They will also learn how to design, conduct and analyse physiological experiments using eye-tracking and/or EEG measures. Acquisition of professional skills such as team-working, time-management and the ability to communicate effectively to different audiences (i.e., academic and end-user) will also be an important part of the training. The PhD project is suitable for students in Neurosciences and related disciplines including Psychology, Biology, Physics, and Computer Sciences. The successful candidate will have research interests in human vision and sport. Experience in skilled performance is a plus but not a requirement.
HOW TO APPLY
Application instructions can be found on the EASTBIO website - How to Apply | EastBio Doctoral Training Partnership | Biology
- Download and complete the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey.
- Download and complete the EASTBIO Application Form.
- Please complete an application on our online portal: How to apply - Study at St Andrews - University of St Andrews
- Select the course ‘PhD with internship’
- Your online application must include the following documents:
- Completed EASTBIO application form
- Academic Qualifications
- English Language Qualification (if applicable)
- 2 References: this must be completed on the EASTBIO Reference Form, also found on the EASTBIO website.
Please download the EASTBIO reference form and send it to your referees. They can either upload it directly to the portal using the automated email they will receive, or they can email it to Rachel at pgrecbiology@st-andrews.ac.uk
CONTACT
Queries on the project can be directed to the project supervisor.
Queries on the application process can be directed to Rachel Horn at pgrecbiology@st-andrews.ac.uk
UKRI eligibility guidance: Terms and Conditions: View Website International/EU: View Website
Funding Notes
This 4 year PhD project is part of a competition funded by EASTBIO BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership.
This opportunity is open to UK and International students and provides funding to cover stipend at UKRI standard rate and UK level tuition fees. The University of St Andrews will cover the Home-International fee difference.