PhD in Neurodevelopmental Disorders – University of South Carolina

The study of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD), is one of the most pressing challenges in neuroscience. Understanding how atypical brain development occurs, what genetic and environmental factors contribute, and how treatments can be improved requires interdisciplinary approaches that bring together neuroscience, psychology, computer science, and advanced data analysis.

At the University of South Carolina (USC) in Columbia, Dr. Zhiqiang Sha’s lab https://shazhiqiang.wixsite.com/sha-lab is now recruiting PhD students in Neuroscience to tackle these important questions. The lab is affiliated with the Carolina Autism & Neurodevelopment Center, the Institute for Mind & Brain, and works closely with the McCausland Center for Brain Imaging. With access to cutting-edge imaging technologies and advanced computational tools, this PhD program offers a unique and exciting opportunity for highly motivated students interested in brain development and mental health research.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Sha’s lab investigates the mechanisms of atypical brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders by integrating multiple dimensions of data:

Genetic variation – understanding how inherited and de novo mutations affect brain function.
Neural circuitry – exploring how brain networks develop and how they differ in neurodevelopmental conditions.
Environmental exposures – examining the role of early-life adversity and other external influences.
Psychopathological outcomes – connecting biological factors with behavioral and clinical symptoms.
Treatment responses – identifying how different individuals respond to therapeutic interventions.

By bridging these different layers of information, the lab aims to shed light on the complex processes underlying brain development and disorders such as ASD.

💻 Methods and Tools

These innovative projects make extensive use of:

Statistical modeling – to analyze large-scale datasets and uncover meaningful patterns.
Machine learning and AI algorithms – to improve prediction, classification, and understanding of brain-behavior relationships.
Neuroimaging techniques – supported by USC’s state-of-the-art Brain Imaging Center, which houses both 3T and high-field 7T MRI scanners.
Rich datasets – including both in-house collections and large public datasets, ensuring students have abundant material for high-impact research.

Additionally, collaboration with the Biobehavioral Research Center at USC provides access to cutting-edge biomedical research platforms.

🎓 What This Position Offers

Joining Dr. Sha’s lab as a PhD student provides an exceptional environment for academic and professional growth:

Hands-on training in advanced neuroimaging (MRI) and biomedical techniques.
Full access to public and proprietary datasets, enabling robust research projects.
A collaborative, interdisciplinary lab culture that encourages teamwork, idea sharing, and peer learning.
Opportunities to publish high-quality research papers under faculty supervision.
Strong support for applying to fellowships, conferences, and career development programs.
The chance to present your work at national and international conferences, building professional networks and visibility in the field.

📌 Key Roles of PhD Students

As a PhD candidate in this program, you will:

Collect, analyze, and interpret data, presenting results and contributing to publications.
Collaborate with fellow lab members as well as international research partners.
Stay updated on emerging studies and methodologies, actively discussing them with your PI.
Disseminate findings at major academic conferences.

✅ Candidate Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants should meet the following criteria:

Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as neuroscience, psychology, biology, computer science, or a related discipline.
Have experience with clinical and MRI data analysis (preferred, but not strictly required).
Possess coding experience, which is increasingly essential in handling and analyzing large neuroimaging datasets.

Highly motivated students who demonstrate curiosity, analytical ability, and a passion for neuroscience are strongly encouraged to apply, even if they are still developing specific technical skills.

📅 Application Process

To apply, please prepare your CV and send it to:
📩 Dr. Zhiqiang Sha – zsha@mailbox.sc.edu

Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances of securing a position.

🌟 Why Join USC?

The University of South Carolina offers not only excellent academic resources but also a vibrant research community at the heart of Columbia, the center of the South Carolina Metropolitan Statistical Area. With access to brand-new imaging facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, and a strong support system for PhD training, USC provides the ideal environment to pursue advanced studies in neuroscience.

This program is more than just a PhD—it is an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries that could transform our understanding of brain development and improve outcomes for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders worldwide.

👉 If you are passionate about neuroscience, neuroimaging, and applying machine learning to real-world clinical challenges, this PhD position is the perfect fit. Take the next step in your research career and join Dr. Sha’s lab at the University of South Carolina.

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PhD in Neurodevelopmental Disorders – University of South Carolina