PhD position : Actuator and sensor placement for neural fields

Thesis goal: The general objective of this thesis is to analyze the impact of actuator and sensor placement on the control and estimation of neural fields comprising multiple neural populations. Specifically, we aim to address the following three questions: 1. How can electrodes be placed to ensure the observability and controllability of the neural field? 2. How can electrode placement be optimized to enhance brain stimulation effects or to gather the most informative data on brain structures? 3. How can we design effective output-feedback control laws to achieve selective disruption of pathological neural oscillations? Required skills This thesis topic requires strong skills in control systems and mathematics, ideally at the level of Grandes Ecoles or a Master’s degree in mathematics or control. Excellent performance in the engi- ´ neering curriculum, as well as expertise or a keen interest in topics related to automation and neuroscience, will be advantageous for this proposed subject. The research will facilitate the acquisition of advanced skills in neural fields, integro-differential equations, and numerical implementation. The candidate will also need to become proficient in Julia, Matlab, or Python, particularly in numerical methods and simulations.