The [Bionic Vision Lab](/research-groups/bionic-vision-lab) at [UC Santa Barbara](/institutions/ucsb) is recruiting one PhD student through the UCSB Department of Computer Science to join the lab in Fall ‘27. Applications are due December 16, 2026.

The project focuses on computational models and machine-learning methods for visual cortical prostheses. This includes models that predict safe neural activity, visual percepts, and where to place electrodes, as well as inverse/control methods for producing desired percepts.

We are looking for someone with a strong ML background, programming skills beyond vibe coding, and a desire to work closely with real neurotechnology and industry teams developing next-generation brain-computer interfaces.

Prior neuroscience experience is useful, but not required.

University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB)

PhD Position: Machine Learning for Visual Neuroprostheses

a brief electrical signal used by neurons to transmit information

an undesirable medical occurrence during a clinical study or treatment

an age-related disease that damages the macula and progressively reduces central vision

the ability of a material or device to function without causing an unacceptable biological response

the degree to which a model reflects known biological structure, mechanisms, or behavior

an electrical pulse with two phases of opposite polarity

a retinal neuron that relays signals from photoreceptors to ganglion cells

severe vision loss that may still include some remaining sight

clouding of the eye's lens that can blur or dim vision

the shape and structural features of a cell

treatment that uses living cells to replace, repair, or support damaged tissue

the folded outer layer of the brain involved in perception, thought, and voluntary action

the amount of electric charge delivered per unit electrode area

an action intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or manage a health condition

a research study in people that evaluates a medical intervention

a photoreceptor specialized for daylight, color, and detailed vision

blindness or severe vision loss that is present from birth

the ability to detect differences between lighter and darker parts of a scene

a device that stimulates the cerebral cortex to create sensory percepts

a U.S. government agency that funds ambitious research and technology development

a small, early clinical study of a medical device focused on initial safety and functionality

the use of controlled electric current to activate or alter neural activity

the opposition to alternating electrical current at an electrode and its surrounding interface

how effectively an electrode records from or stimulates nearby neurons

the study and measurement of electrical activity in cells and tissues

the formation of a tissue capsule around an implanted material

PhD Position: Machine Learning for Visual Neuroprostheses

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