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Recalibration mechanisms in vision: Adapting to a changing environment

Summary

To survive successfully humans must accurately with the environment. However, the environmental conditions can change, sometimes drastically in a very short time. An organism is very good at recalibrating to new environmental condition. However, the underlying mechanisms are still not well understood.

Supervisor

Professor Frans Verstraten.

Research location

School of Psychology

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

We are interested in how the brain and in particular the visual system adjusts itself to a constantly changing environment. For example, when you start driving 50 km/hour feels pretty fast. However, after an hour or so on the highway and going back to a 50 km zone, it feels like you driving much slower. This is a form of recalibration to new environmental conditions. We are especially interested in the temporal aspects. Some recalibrations take only seconds, other days.

Additional information

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 1610

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