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This program page was last updated on 20 February 2023. Some details may have changed since then. Please check the University of Cyprus website or the University of Cyprus page for current opportunities.

PhD in Economics - University of Cyprus

20 february 2023, phd programs, ph.d. in economics, full funding, university of cyprus, department of economics.

The Department of Economics at the University of Cyprus is currently accepting applications for it's Ph.D. Programme in Economics !

The programme provides excellent opportunities to highly motivated students who are interested in conducting original research and who want to pursue graduate studies in Economics.

The  Ph.D. in Economics  at the University of Cyprus aims to provide rigorous economic theory and econometrics training to enable our students to conduct cutting-edge original research in economics. Our aim is for our graduates to can successfully compete internationally for employment at Universities, research institutions, public policy organizations, and the private sector. Past graduates of the programme are now employed in renowned Universities abroad, as well as in several academic institutions in Cyprus.

The Department of Economics provides a strong research-oriented academic environment, with faculty members with research interests spanning across various fields in Economics and Econometrics.  Tilburg University Research Ranking , which measures research output in Economics journals, has been ranking the University of Cyprus consistently within the top 100 institutions in Europe, and around the world’s top 200. Faculty members of the Department have published in most of the leading journals in economics and other related fields, including among others the  American Economic Review ,  Econometrica ,  Annals of Statistics, and the Quarterly Journal of Economics

We seek candidates with strong analytical skills, a background in quantitative methods (not necessarily in Economics) and a passion for research. Students coming directly from undergraduate studies, or without prior research-oriented graduate studies in Economics, are typically first enrolled in the  Master in Economic Analysis , where they can complete the required coursework. Admitted students can also have the opportunity to transfer credits from similar classes taken in other universities.

The Department makes every effort possible to ensure that the doctoral students have enough income to live independently during their studies. The Department covers the tuition fees of its incoming full-time Ph.D. students. In addition to this, most students are offered financial aid, in the form of scholarships or teaching assistantships, which allows them to cover their living costs.  Students who are initially enrolled in the Master of Economic Analysis are also eligible for funding.

Typically, the initial offer of financial support covers the first year of studies. Renewal of the support beyond the first year is usually offered to students who are admitted to the research stage of the Ph.D. programme.

The Department tries its best to clarify the financial support that incoming students should expect as soon as possible. Oftentimes, this is done already when the Department offers a position to the applicant in the programme or soon after that.

The Department offers additional funding for participation in conferences, enrolment in summer/winter schools and online courses, as well as it provides opportunities for research visits in renowned research institutions.

In the past decade, the Department has financially supported all its full-time Ph.D. students throughout their studies and a substantial number of students enrolled in the Master in Economic Analysis.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE:

The program begins with the coursework stage. The students take core courses in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Econometrics, as well as a course in Mathematics, two courses in Topics in Current Economic Research and additional elective courses that help them deepen their knowledge in specific research areas.

Students with sufficiently high performance in the core courses obtain the right to take the comprehensive exam.  Students who successfully complete the coursework stage, but do not meet the requirements to enter research stage of the Ph.D. Programme can graduate with a Master in Economic Analysis .

Success in the comprehensive exam gives the student the right to proceed to the programme’s research stage. During the research stage, the student conducts research under a Research Advisor’s guidance, intending to write a doctoral dissertation.  

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Initial Deadline: 31/03/2023     Second Evaluation Round:  30/04/2023 Final Deadline:  30/06/2023

Applications received after the initial deadline are evaluated on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure that they can be evaluated while there are still available positions and funding opportunities.

To apply to the programme click on this link .

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND CONTACT DETAILS:

Info about the life in Cyprus can be found at UCY’s International Students Office .

Contact Email:  [email protected]

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Research is fundamental to enabling us to provide real-word solutions and opportunities that have an impact on society. We have a growing and vibrant community of innovative academics who nurture our postgraduate students and early-career researchers, producing high quality international and world-leading research that addresses today’s challenges.

If you’re looking to undertake a UCLan research degree under the supervision of UCLan Cyprus faculty, please seek an initial consultation with our faculty / Head of the School.

Below, you can explore potential research areas per School:

European Law

1. Digital Rights 2. Rule of Law 3. Sustainable Justice 4. Fundamental rights, EU citizenship, governance of the EU 5. Fundamental freedoms and single market

Public International Law

1. Transitional justice 2. Human rights in post-conflict/frozen conflict societies 3. International Criminal Law 4. International Humanitarian Law

Private Law

1. International commercial law with a focus on international sale of goods 2. Alternative dispute resolution methods 3. Comparative contract law 4. Legal design and innovation 5. Civil procedural law 6. Company Law and Corporate Governance 7. ESG and Corporate Sustainability 8. Banking and Financial Regulation

Legal Theory

1. Democracy and Law 2. Obedience and Disobedience to Law

You can view the profiles, specific research interests and contact information of the School of Law academics here .

1. Trustworthy AI design, development and use 2. Responsible communication systems 3. Data Management, Data Analytics, Intelligent Systems 4. Virtual Reality, eXtended Reality, and Digital Twins 5. Research in Videogames 6. Pedagogical Approaches, Educational Technology, AI in Education 7. Socio-Technical Factors in Learning Experience Design (LXD) 8. Game-Based Learning and Educational Robotics 9. Learner Engagement with Emerging Technologies 10. Cybersecurity skills, Cybersecurity Education 11. Context-aware Computing 12. AI-aware Software Engineering 13. Power, Performance, Reliability and Total Cost of Ownership Optimizations 14. AI in (Sports) Medicine 15. Online Hate Speech Analysis with AI 16. Sports Analytics and Visualisation using Data Science

Engineering

1. Indoor Positioning, Localization, and Navigation 2. 6G Wireless Communications, Next Generation Communications 3. Ground and Aerian Unmanned Systems 4. Technology-enabled Precision Agriculture 5. Computer Architecture 6. Fault Tolerant Systems 7. Power, Performance, Reliability and Total Cost of Ownership optimizations

1. Discourse, reasoning in online engagement, using technology to promote thinking-skills and learning, epistemic cognition, science communication, my-side bias, disinformation, social media 2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, emotion regulation, personal values and behaviour 3. Relational aggression, prosocial involvement and wellbeing 4. Prevention of mental health and behavioural challenges in community and organisations (e.g. schools, companies): program evaluation 5. Understanding Bullying: Individual and Contextual Factors that influence children’s involvement in bullying/cyberbullying incidents 6. Interventions and Prevention programmes against Bullying 7. Examining and Countering Misinformation 8. Supporting students’ critical thinking in their interaction with AI 9. The public communication of science: Trust, Mistrust, & Distrust / Interdisciplinary 10. Mental Health and Wellbeing in Emergency Professional settings 11. Ghosting, Interpersonal loss, need for belonging, bereavement, attachment, Complicated Grief/Loss, addiction, Traumatic Growth, Adult Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) 12. High Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for the Treatment of Severe Psychopathology – Depression, Schizophrenia, OCD, Addictions and Overall Mental Health

Arts, Media, and Communication

1. Accessibility and Inclusivity in UX Design 2. Evaluating information on social media platforms 3. The public communication of science: Trust, Mistrust, & Distrust / Interdisciplinary

Mathematics and Statistics

1. Extremal Combinatorics, Extremal Graph Theory, Random Graphs 2. Stochastic Orders, Dependent Variables: Probability and Moment Inequalities/ Asymptotic Results

Sports and Exercise Science

1. Physical Education, Physical Literacy, Behavioural Change 2. Intervention strategies for injury prevention in different sports modalities 3. Intervention strategies for performance enhancement in elite and sub-elite 4. Intervention strategies for health promotion/disease prevention in clinical and healthy populations

You can view the profiles, specific research interests and contact information of the School of Science academics here .

Accounting, Finance & Economics

1. Strategy and Performance Management 2. Management Accounting and Control Systems and organizational change 3. Political Economy 4. Economic Development 5. Applied Economics 6. Economic Growth 7. Macroeconomics 8. Corporate Governance 9. FinTech and the investment industry 10. Cryptocurrency

Business, Management & Entrepreneurship

1. Social Entrepreneurship 2. Entrepreneurial Orientation 3. Strategic Entrepreneurship for Growth 4. Hospitality Entrepreneurship 5. International Business 6. International Entrepreneurship 7. Sustainability 8. AI in Business

Tourism, Marketing & International Relations

1. International Peacebuilding 2. Conflict Management 3. Emerging actors in International Relations 4. Niche Tourism Management 5. Tourism and peace 6. Tourism and Sustainability 7. Tourism’s political impact

Human Resources Management & Organisational Learning

1. Leadership styles 2. Emotion (self)management 3. Wellbeing 4. Stress 5. EDI 6. Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education 7. Professional Development and Workplace Learning 8. Workplace learning 9. Career development Career transitions 10. Work and Identity

Linguistics, Literature & Education

1. English and Comparative Literature 2. Educational Leadership and Digital Competence 3. Innovation in Education 4. E-learning 5. Computer-supported collaborative learning 6. Multilingualism 7. Language Acquisition

You can view the profiles, specific research interests and contact information of the School of Business and Management academics here .

After the initial consultation with the appropriate UCLan Cyprus academic(s) please follow the below link to complete your application form: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/postgraduate-research/how-to-apply

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Doctoral Degree (PhD)

In medical sciences, request information, phd in medical sciences, introduction, supervisors, scholarships & research projects, earn a phd in medical sciences.

The University of Nicosia Medical School offers a PhD in Medical Sciences to students who successfully complete an independent research programme that breaks new ground in the chosen field of study. The PhD in Medical Sciences enables students to become independent researchers, thus advancing innovation and development. Following the completion of their PhD, graduates will develop capabilities that will allow them to carry out and lead independent research, to innovate and to push forward the frontiers of science and medicine.

Profile of the Programme

Main aims and objectives.

The PhD programme aims to provide:

• In-depth study of a specific topic.
• The ability to express creativity in research.
• The opportunity to develop skills that allow students to critically examine the existing literature in their specific research area.
• Development of skills in developing and testing hypotheses.
• Development of new theories.
• Development of the skills to plan and conduct experiments.
• Development of communication skills such as oral presentation skills by participating in conferences and writing up skills by submitting papers to peer reviewed journals.
• Development of professionalism and networking skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Doctoral degrees are awarded for the generation and interpretation of results/knowledge, which enhances and/or extends existing knowledge in a discipline, usually through original research and critical thinking. Students undertaking doctorates will be able to form hypotheses and seek answers by designing and performing appropriate experiments in order to generate significant new knowledge and/or understanding.

Furthermore, holders of doctorates will have been furnished with the qualities needed for employment that requires the ability to make informed judgments on complex issues in specialist fields, and be in a position to tackle and solve problems.

More specifically and according to the Bologna Process and the Framework for Qualifications for the European Higher Education Area students awarded doctorates should:

• Have demonstrated a systematic understanding of a field of study and mastery of the skills and methods of research associated with that field.
• Have demonstrated the ability to conceive, design, implement and adapt a substantial process of research with scholarly integrity.
• Have made a contribution through original research that extends the frontier of knowledge by developing a substantial body of work, some of which merits national or international refereed publication.
• Be capable of critical analysis, evaluation and construction of new and complex ideas.
• Be capable to communicate with their peers, the larger scholarly community and with society in general about their areas of expertise.
• Be able to promote, within academic and professional contexts, technological, social or cultural advancement in a knowledge-based society.

Additionally, according to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and more specifically Level 8 of EQF, the Doctoral Degree’s Learning Outcomes must be as follows:

• Knowledge: knowledge at the most advanced frontier of a field of work or study and at the interface between fields.
• Skills: the most advanced and specialised skills and techniques, including construction and evaluation, required to solve critical problems in research and/or innovation and to extend and redefine existing knowledge or professional practice.
• Competence: demonstrate substantial authority, innovation, autonomy, scholarly and professional integrity and sustained commitment to the development of new ideas or processes at the forefront of work or study contexts including research.”

Career Outcomes

Prospects of employment will include positions in clinical medicine (hospitals or private practice), biomedical research institutes, pharmaceutical industry, academia, government agencies, and national and international legislative bodies.

Structure and Assessment

A Doctoral Degree requires the completion of at least 180 ECTS. The minimum number of years for completing a Doctoral Degree is three (3) and the maximum number of years is eight (8).

* In the second semester, students will attend either PHD-102 or PHD-103, depending on the specific focus of their PhD project. Thus, by the end of their first year of enrolment, students would have attended and completed 2 research methods courses by the end of which students will obtain 20 ECTS.

The Doctoral Degree comprises of the completion of compulsory research courses and research work by the students under the guidance of the Supervisory Team, as well as the writing up of the Thesis, submission of the Thesis and defence of the Thesis before the Examinations Committee. The award of a Doctoral Degree thus requires:

• Successful completion (Pass) of the two compulsory Research Courses (Year 1);
• Successful defence of the Thesis;
• Publication of one journal article in a Scopus indexed journal (where applicable);
• Presentation in at least one research conference (where applicable).

Research Proposal

Development of the phd research proposal.

PhD Applicants should make sure that their Research interests align with the Research Priority Areas of the Medical School. The selection of the Main Supervisor and the development of the PhD Research Proposal is an integral part of the application process. The Proposal should be innovative and original in its conception. It should outline the research problem, present the literature review, demonstrate the research methodology as well as the budget requirements (maximum of 5-8 pages, approximately 2,000-3,000 words). The Admissions Office can provide the relevant PhD Research Proposal Template. It should be noted that the Proposal should be reviewed by the selected Main Supervisors and it should be approved prior to starting an application. PhD Applicants who apply under a specific PhD Scholarship or Research Project offered by Faculty of the Medical School are not required to submit the PhD Research Proposal at this stage. Please check out the ‘Scholarships & Research Projects’ section to review these projects.

Research Priority Areas

The Medical School espouses the holistic concept of One Health which emphasizes the relationship between the health of humans and animals within a healthy, sustainable environment and promotes the conduct of clinical, epidemiological, basic science and social science research.

The Research Priority Areas of the Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences are as follows:

• Brain Health and Disease
• Cancer Biology and Oncology
• Regenerative Medicine and Genetics
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Education, Clinical Communication and Health Psychology
• Medical Physics and Emerging Technologies

The Research Priority Areas of the Department of Primary Care and Population Health are as follows:

• Chronic Disease Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Environmental Health
• Biostatistics and Research Methodology
• Public Health Policy
• Clinical and Primary Care Research

PhD supervision is conducted by a 3-member PhD supervisory committee. The Main Supervisor should be a full time Teaching Research Faculty (TRF) of the University, active in research and publications. The other members of the committee may also be faculty members from another School or another University/Research Institute.

If you need any help in finding a PhD Supervisor at the Medical School please contact: Dr Nicoletta Nicolaou | PhD Programme Director  | [email protected]

Admission Criteria

There are two entry points to the PhD programme (Fall and Spring Semester) per year.

All applicants should make sure that the below requirements are satisfied prior to starting their application.

  Eligible Candidates should hold, or hold by the time that the Programme is expected to commence, a recognised degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent allowing entry to a Master’s Degree plus a Master’s degree, OR a Doctor of Medicine degree, e.g., MBBS or MD degree). An applicant may be admitted to the Programme subject to completing selected courses offered by the Department, if so decided by the Department Postgraduate Programmes Committee (DPPC).

To start an application, the form (at the top of this page) should be completed and submitted to the School. The application will be reviewed by the Admissions Department and a follow up communication will be sent to request additional information as well as the submission of the below documents:

• Copies of the applicant’s Bachelor and/or Masters, or MBBS or MD or equivalent qualification(s)/degree(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but a certified true copy must be provided prior to enrolment.
• Copies of the applicant’s transcript(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but a certified true copy must be provided prior to enrolment.
• Proof of English language proficiency such as IELTS with a score of 7 overall and with a minimum score of 7 in writing or TOEFL iBT with a score of 94 overall and a minimum score of 27 in Writing. Other internationally recognized English language qualifications might be considered upon review. The obligation to present a certificate of success in international English language proficiency exams excludes nationals from UK, Ireland, USA, Australia, New Zealand and Canada (from English-speaking provinces) whose native language is English.
• Two reference letters, of which at least one should be from an academic.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• An approved PhD Research Proposal as per the requirements (when applicable).

For any questions, you can contact Admissions at [email protected]

Tuition Costs

For self-funded PhD Research Projects, the tuition fees for the PhD programme are €13,500 in total for 3 years. For each additional academic year, tuition is €1,500 per year.

Scholarships & Research Projects

PhD Applicants have the opportunity to apply under specific PhD Research Projects offered by Faculty of the Medical School. Please review the post for specific details regarding the PhD Projects, the Funding, the entry and/or application requirements. It should be noted that the review and selection of the candidates is a competitive process, therefore only fully completed applications, containing all necessary supporting documents will be reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews.

See the available PhD Research Projects below:

Projects Offered as Research Scholarships (Stipend and Waving of Tuition Fees):

Phd project in medical sciences, the brain on the witness stand:  investigating implicit memory recall in crime witnesses.

M ain Supervisor: Dr Nicoletta Nicolaou

Projects Offered as Scholarships (Waving of Tuition Fees):

Investigating the possible association of nrg1 and tau, in the development of alzheimer’s disease (ad).

M ain Supervisor: Professor Dimitrios Kanakis

Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD

M ain Supervisor: Dr Achilleas Pavlou

Climate change-related environmental risk factors and perinatal health

M ain Supervisor: Dr Souzana Achilleos

Self-Funded Projects:

Investigating students’ preparation for clinical training skills in medical undergraduate education.

M ain Supervisor: Dr Panayiota Andreou

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences in the field of Pathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-4: Investigating the possible association of NRG1 and tau, in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)’

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences  in the field of Pathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases for the  PhD Research Project ‘ PHD-2023-4: Investigating the possible association of NRG1 and tau, in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) ’

The PhD in Medical Sciences:

The University of Nicosia Medical School offers the degree PhD in Medical Sciences.   The degree is awarded to students who successfully complete an independent research programme leading to novel findings in the chosen field of study. The PhD programme aspires to empower students to become independent researchers, thus advancing innovation and development.

The Research Project:

We are currently inviting application through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for one PhD Scholarship in the fields of Pathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases. The successful candidate will enrol in the PhD programme in Medical Sciences and will work under the Supervision of Professor Dimitrios Kanakis with expertise in the fields of Pathology and Neuropathology at the University of Nicosia Medical School.

Project Description:

Code and Title of research project: ‘PHD-2023-4: Investigating the possible association of NRG1 and tau, in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).’

Background and Rationale:

Neurodegenerative disorders constitute a major problem for the health care system globally. The number of newly diagnosed patients suffering from one of the known neurodegenerative diseases increases dramatically. Finding a treatment or even a preventative measure against such disorders is one of the major challenges of modern science. However, these scientific efforts, though intensive, have not yet achieved the expected result, that is the development of efficacious therapeutic schemes. The reason for this is the absence of sufficient knowledge of the pathogenesis of each of the various degenerative diseases. It is therefore of utmost importance to understand comprehensively the pathology of this category of diseases in order to focus our research explicitly.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the commonest age-related neurodegenerative disorder, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a progressive neurological disorder that drives to the irreversible loss of neurons, primarily in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus. The amyloid-β plaques and the neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are the main histopathological hallmarks of the disease.

The amyloid hypothesis suggests that the abnormal cleavage of Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) and the subsequent deposition of toxic amyloid peptides are a predominant step in the pathogenesis of the disease. However, tau hyperphosphorylation and neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) formation is a direct epiphenomenon of this abnormal deposition suggesting the close association of APP and MAPT (Microtubule Associated Protein Tau) genes.

Neuregulins (NRG) are a family of growth and differentiation factors involved in neuronal differentiation and migration, oligodendrocyte development, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function, myelination, neurite extension and arborization, synapse formation and neurotransmitter release.

There are four different neuregulin types: NRG1, NRG2, NRG3, and NRG4. NRG1 is the most widely studied growth factor of the neuregulin family. There are three NRG1 isoforms, namely NRG1 type I, NRG1 type II and NRG1 type III. NRG1 protein has been shown to be important in the development of the CNS, the circulatory system and accessory reproductive organs like the mammary glands. NRG1 plays a pivotal role in neurogenesis and neural differentiations (i.e. neural crest cell differentiation into Schwann cells). Its function is mediated by transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptors of the ErbB family, inducing receptor heterodimerization, which in turn initiates a signal transduction cascade.

A close association of Neuregulin-1 (NRG1), BACE1 and APP genes exists that suggest a potential link between NRG1 and Alzheimer’s disease, as the last two factors (i.e. BACE and APP) have been implicated in the development of this condition. NRG1 is a major physiological substrate of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), which is cleaved within its ectodomain allowing the exposure of the EGF-like domain for ErbB signaling. In other words, NRG1 activation is mediated by the enzymatic cleavage of BACE1, a rate limiting enzyme for APP proteolysis and amyloid production.

Double immunofluorescence and electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that ErbB4 antibodies co-localized with hyper-phosphorylated tau inclusions and NFTs, proving the relationship between the neuregulin receptor ErbB4 and protein hyper-phosphorylated protein tau. The importance of ErbB/neuregulin signaling in AD pathogenesis, APP processing and tau hyper-phosphorylation has also been shown.

In vitro experiments demonstrated further that NRG1 eliminated the effect of amyloid beta-induced decrease in dendritic spine density in rat primary hippocampal neurons, and improved neural cell differentiation in mouse fetal neuronal stem cells. These results render Neuregulin-1 a potential therapeutic agent for Alzheimer’s disease.

It is therefore evident that the exact role of NRG1 is quite enigmatic, so there is an urgent need to “solve” the puzzle and understand the exact role of NRG1 in AD pathogenesis. Additionally, there is a missing link between NRG1 gene and tau hyper-phosphorylation. The main aim of the study is to elucidate the possible role of NRG-1 type III gene in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, through direct or indirect MAPT interaction leading to tau hyper-phosphorylation and NFT formation.

Aims and Objectives:

The current Research Proposal has the following aims and objectives:

• To examine the possible association of NRG1 with tau protein, tau hyper-phosphorylation and the development of toxic NFTs in AD mice.
• To examine the potential co-localization of the NRG1 protein with the hyper-phosphorylated protein tau.
• In a later stage, the association of NRG1 with BACE1 will be examined too, through RNAi technology. BACE1 inhibition will be performed on NRG1 transfected cells, in order to assess the possible change in NRG1 normal processing.

The Scholarship:

The PhD project comes with a Fee Waiver Scholarship that includes:

• Coverage of tuition fees for the PhD programme for a duration of three years (totalling €13,500). The successful candidate is expected to cover the tuition fees for each additional academic year (€1,500 per year).

The scholarship is subject to annual renewal based on the recipient’s satisfactory academic progress, with maximum renewal period of three years.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Eligible Candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence i.e. October 2024) a recognised degree (BSc or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree) and a Master’s degree (MSc) in the field(s) of Molecular Biology, or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
• Expertise in a variety of laboratory (e.g. immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in paraffin fixed mouse brain samples) and specific molecular biology methods (e.g. Western blotting, in vitro experiments with different cell lines) is a prerequisite for carrying out the experiments of the PhD project.

Application for the PhD Scholarship:

Candidates should submit an online application through the ‘Request Information’ form and upload the following supporting documents:

• A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Scholarship in the field of Pathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-4: Investigating the possible association of NRG1 and tau, in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)’.
• Copies of the applicant’s qualifications/degree(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but certified true copies must be provided if the candidate is successful and prior to enrolment on the PhD programme.
• Copies of the applicant’s transcript(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but certified true copies must be provided if the candidate is successful and prior to enrolment on the PhD programme.
• Proof of English language proficiency such as IELTS with a score of 7 overall and with a minimum score of 7 in writing or TOEFL iBT with a score of 94 overall and a minimum score of 27 in Writing. Other internationally recognized English language qualifications might be considered upon review. Students from the UK, Ireland USA, Canada (from English speaking provinces), Australia and New Zealand are exempt from the English language requirement.
• A full Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Once you complete your application please send an email to [email protected] expressing officially your interest in the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-4: Investigating the possible association of NRG1 and tau, in the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)’ and also attaching all the required documents.

Applications should be submitted by Friday, 10 th May, 2024 at 5pm. Only fully completed applications, containing all necessary supporting documents will be reviewed.

Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted and invited to an interview.

Acceptance of Applications for the PhD in Medical Sciences in field of Medical Education for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-5: Investigating students’ preparation for clinical training skills in medical undergraduate education’

Acceptance of Applications for the PhD in Medical Sciences  in field of Medical Education for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-5: Investigating students’ preparation for clinical training skills in medical undergraduate education’  

The University of Nicosia Medical School offers the degree PhD in Medical Sciences.   The degree is awarded to students who successfully complete an independent research programme that breaks new ground in the chosen field of study. The PhD programme aspires to empower students to become independent researchers, thus advancing innovation and development.

We are currently inviting applications through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for a PhD Research Project in the fields of Medical Education. The successful candidate will enrol on the PhD programme in Medical Sciences and will work under the Supervision of Dr Panayiota Andreou with expertise in the fields of Medical Education at the University of Nicosia Medical School.

  Project Description:

Code and Title of research project: ‘PHD-2023-5:   Investigating students’ preparation for clinical and communication training skills in medical undergraduate education.’

  Background and Rationale:

There is evidence that active engagement in education improves learning outcomes. More specifically, research suggests that student engagement (i.e. effort towards learning) often corresponds with positive student performance outcomes (Lee, 2014). Educational institutes try to enhance and support student engagement and preparation through various means such as study guides (Harden, Laidlaw, & Hesketh, 1999).  Students who complete assigned readings prior to class tend to perform better academically (Phillips & Phillips, 2007; Terpstra, 1979) and the latter also facilitates understanding (Phillips & Phillips, 2007) and increases class participation (Chizmar, 2005; Karp & Yoels, 1976; Valde, 1997) which is known to enhance learning (Schmidt, Cohen-Scotanus, & Arends, 2009; Webb, Troper, & Fall, 1995). This is also acknowledged by students, who rate preparation ahead of their class as one of the most important factors for class participation (Aalbers et al., 2013; Karp & Yoels, 1976).

However, it is often observed that students do not always do the assigned preparatory work. Over the course of a semester students tend to rely increasingly on “skimming” the reading material ahead of class, and as a result, preparation declines (McKeachie, 2002; Phillips & Phillips, 2007). This pattern has also concerning consequences for the potential benefits of introducing popular instructional models such as the flipped or inverted classroom for large group teaching (Akçayır & Akçayır, 2018).

There is limited work investigating the reasons why students are not engaged with the advised preparatory work and even less work on interventions developed to address this issue. Some work focused on large group teaching and specifically on how digital tools including quizzes and progress monitors, can help students prepare (Francescucci, Kellershohn, & Pyle, 2020). Results indicated a positive impact on both academic assessments and self-reported feelings of engagement but only at the 100% completion levels. In other words, an all-or-nothing effect on the part of the students is required.

Similarly, work focusing on small group teaching, such as experiential communication and clinical skills training, and investigating the motivating factors of preparation (or lack of) has been equally limited. Evidence drawn from students’ perspective indicated a range of intrinsic factors (e.g. personal learning style, attitudes and beliefs) and external factors (e.g. upcoming assessment, preparatory advice) were related to student motivation and preparation behavior (Aalbers et al., 2013). The authors focused on students’ beliefs on what could influence their motivation and engagement with preparation work, with suggestions for possible interventions. However, this work focused on a cross-sectional time point without capturing the possible dynamic change of motivation over the undergraduate medical training. In addition, the study did not explore other stakeholders’ opinions in this area such as field experts and tutors delivering the trainings which could enrich and strengthen the data. Furthermore, the study did not investigate possible differences between clinical skills and clinical communication skills training accounting differences such as the use of simulated patients. It is possible that the range of factors which can influence students’ preparedness are more complex and dynamic than initially thought of, which in turn may necessitate multifaced interventions at various levels e.g. individual, group, institutional.

The overall aim of this research project is to facilitate and strengthen student engagement ahead of their skills training. The objectives of the proposed research are:

• To identify factors related to students’ attitudes and motivation towards pre-session preparation for skills training.
• To identify potential barriers and facilitators to pre-session preparation for skills training.
• To design and implement an intervention to facilitate pre-session preparation for skills training.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

  Tuition Fees:

The tuition fees are €13,500 in total for the first 3 years. For each additional academic year, tuition is €1,500 per year.

  Requirements and Qualifications:

• Eligible Candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence i.e. October 2024) a recognised degree (BSc or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree) and a Master’s degree in the field(s) of Social Sciences e.g. Psychology or Health Sciences e.g. Nursing , or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
• Research experience with quantitative and/or qualitative methodology would be a plus.

Application for the Research Project:

• A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Research Project in the field of Medical Education ‘PHD-2023-5: Investigating students’ preparation for clinical training skills in medical undergraduate education’
• A full Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Once you complete your online application please send an email to [email protected] expressing officially your interest in the PhD Research Project ‘ PHD-2023-5:   Investigating students’ preparation for clinical training skills in medical undergraduate education ’ and also attaching all the required documents.

Applications should be submitted by Friday, 10 th May, 2024 at 5pm.  Only fully completed applications, containing all necessary supporting documents will be reviewed.

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences in the field of Sleep Science and Neuroscience for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-3: Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD’

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences  in the field of Sleep Science and Neuroscience for the  PhD Research Project ‘ PHD-2023-3: Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD’

We are currently inviting application through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for one PhD Scholarship in the fields of Sleep Science and Neuroscience. The successful candidate will enrol on the PhD programme in Medical Sciences and will work under the Supervision of Dr Achilleas Pavlou with expertise in the fields of sleep science, neuroscience and machine learning at the University of Nicosia Medical School.

Code and Title of research project: ‘ PHD-2023-3: Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD.’

PTSD is a mental health condition that can occur in people who have witnessed or experienced a traumatic event (e.g., war, sexual violence or major injury). The majority of PTSD patients (between 50 – 70%) suffer from persistent and recurrent vivid nightmares that can cause insomnia and can severely affect quality of life and daytime functioning (Lancel et al., 2021). Recurrent nightmares and poor sleep are a major driver of poor mental health (Lamarche & De Koninck, 2007). The frequent nightmares in PTSD are thought to occur when emotional memory integration processes during REM fail, resulting in persistent and repeated nightmares (Nishida et al., 2009). Altering negative affect dream content/narrative to a positive or neutral one could alleviate PTSD symptomatology (and possibly other mood disorders), by allowing the emotional trauma memory to be consolidated appropriately.  This is where ‘dream engineering’ methodologies such as targeted memory reactivation (TMR; Oudiette & Paller, 2013) and lucid dreaming (Baird, Mota-Rolim & Dresler, 2019), can be applied in order to modify negative affect dream content into a neutral or positive one.

This PhD project aims to provide the building blocks towards creating a novel therapy for treating treating/improving Post-Traumatic Disorder (PTSD) symptomatology (e.g., recurrent nightmares) through that use of dream engineering (Carr et al., 2020) delivered by small sleep wearable technologies that are powered by machine learning algorithms. An example of dream engineering methodologies that could be used are external stimulation techniques applied during REM sleep is TMR (Oudiette & Paller, 2013) and lucid dreaming therapy aided by external stimulation techniques (Baird, Mota-Rolim & Dresler, 2019). The primary aim of this PhD project is to build a predictive algorithm based on physiological data so that these dream engineering techniques are delivered only when a nightmare is detected in order to minimize the possibility of any unwanted impact on sleep physiology.

Thus, the PhD project aims to build a nightmare/negative affect dream detector ML algorithm, that will predict dream affect in order to deliver all these possible interventions in a targeted manner. To achieve this, the PhD project aims to (1) carry out purely observational studies that will collect dream affect self-reports (as well as other dream related variables of interest) and at-home sleep EEG recordings from healthy individuals and PTSD patients. These at-home sleep EEG recordings will be acquired through small low-cost sleep wearable EEG devices that are on the market. The sleep EEG data collected will then be used (2) to train a ML learning algorithm to predict negative or non-negative dream affect.

• Eligible Candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence i.e. October 2024) a recognised degree (BSc or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree) and a Master’s degree (MSc) in the field(s) of Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science , or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
• Computer programming experience (e.g., R, MATLAB® and Python), particularly for EEG analysis and machine learning, will be considered advantageous, but not required. If the PhD candidate does not have prior programming experience they will be supported through training and may be asked to take machine learning online courses during their first year.
• The candidate must have previous experience in at least one of the following areas: Sleep Science, Neuroscience, Signal Processing and/or Machine Learning.
• A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Scholarship in the field Sleep Science & Neuroscience for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-3: Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD.’
• Once you complete your online application please send an email to [email protected] expressing officially your interest in the PhD Research Project ‘ PHD-2023-3: Development of a Machine Learning-based nightmare detection method for recurrent nightmare treatment in PTSD’ and also attaching all the required documents.

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences in the fields of Epidemiology and Environmental Health for the PhD Research Project ‘Climate change-related environmental risk factors and perinatal health’

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences  in the fields of Epidemiology and Environmental Health for the  PhD Research Project  ‘Climate change-related environmental risk factors and perinatal health’ 

  The PhD in Medical Sciences:

The University of Nicosia Medical School offers the degree PhD in Medical Sciences. The degree is awarded to students who successfully complete an independent research programme that breaks new ground in the chosen field of study. The PhD programme aspires to empower students to become independent researchers, thus advancing innovation and development.

We are currently inviting application through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for one PhD Scholarship in the fields of Epidemiology and Environmental Health. The successful candidate will enrol on the PhD programme in Medical Sciences and will work under the Supervision of Dr Souzana Achilleos ( [email protected] ) with expertise in the fields of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the Department of Primary care and Population, University of Nicosia Medical School.

Title of research project: Climate Change-related Environmental Risk Factors and Perinatal Health

Climate change poses significant health challenges, impacting individuals directly through events like heat strokes and indirectly through issues such as food insecurity. Certain populations, including children and pregnant women, are particularly vulnerable to these health risks (Portier et al., 2010). The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) theory underscores the role of early-life environmental exposures, especially during pregnancy, in shaping susceptibility to chronic diseases later in life (Nobile, Di Sipio Morgia & Vento, 2022).

Studies suggest links between climate change-related factors like temperature and air pollution and adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight (Veenema, Hoepner & Geer, 2023). However, evidence varies across studies and locations, with some areas being more thoroughly studied due to data availability. Cyprus, experiencing warming trends surpassing global averages, presents an important case study, and a recent study has shown associations between higher temperatures during pregnancy and lower birth weight (Liu et al., 2023).

To address gaps in understanding, a systematic review and meta-analysis gathering global evidence on perinatal outcomes and climate change-related environmental risks are crucial. Despite the importance, recent comprehensive reviews are lacking. Evidence from Cyprus and diverse environmental settings can enhance understanding of climate change’s impact on perinatal health, aiding public health decision-making. Identifying these environmental risk factors and their mechanisms is vital for protecting maternal and infant health in the face of climate change.

The overall aim of the study is to apply robust methods to explore the association between climate change-related environmental risk factors (e.g., air pollutants, temperature, humidity), including their interactions, and perinatal outcomes.

Specifically, the study aims to:

• Conduct a systematic synthesis of evidence linking climate change-related environmental risk factors (e.g., air pollutants, temperature, humidity) and perinatal health outcomes at a global scale.
• Study the association between climate change-related environmental risk factors (e.g., air pollutants, temperature, humidity), and their interactions, with perinatal outcomes, utilizing available data from Cyprus and, if possible, from the other Multi-Country Multi-City (MCC) Collaborative Research Network countries ( https://mccstudy.lshtm.ac.uk/ )

In addition, pursuing a Ph.D. in epidemiology and environmental health offers diverse benefits, equipping candidates with specialized expertise and versatile skills applicable across various professional settings. Undertaking such a PhD project involves rigorous research including study design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, with candidates having the opportunity to develop skills in statistics, epidemiology, and environmental science and more, enhancing their ability to work across disciplines. It requires perseverance, critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. These qualities are highly transferable invaluable in both academic and non-academic careers.

• Eligible Candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence i.e. October 2024) either a recognised degree (BSc or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree) and a Master’s degree (MSc) of Data Science or Public Health (e.g. Biostatistics, Epidemiology , Environmental Health), or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
• Experience with data analyses using R statistical software will be considered advantageous, but not required. If the PhD candidate does not have prior statistical experience with R, he/she will be supported through training and may be asked to take online courses during their first year.
• A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Scholarship in the field of Epidemiology and Environmental Health for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-2: Climate Change-related Environmental Risk Factors and Perinatal Health’

Applications should be submitted by Friday, 10th May, 2024 at 5pm.  Only fully completed applications, containing all necessary supporting documents will be reviewed.

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences in the field of Neuroscience / Biomedical Sciences for the PhD Research Project ‘The Brain on the Witness Stand: Investigating Implicit Memory Recall in Crime Witnesses’

Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences  in the field of Neuroscience / Biomedical Sciences for the  PhD Research Project ‘The Brain on the Witness Stand:  Investigating Implicit Memory Recall in Crime Witnesses’

We are currently inviting application through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for one PhD Scholarship in the field of Neuroscience / Biomedical Sciences. The successful candidate will enrol on the PhD programme in Medical Sciences at the University of Nicosia Medical School and will work under the Supervision of Dr Nicoletta Nicolaou ( [email protected] ), with expertise in the fields of Biomedical Signal Processing and Machine Learning.

Title of research project: The Brain on the Witness Stand:  Investigating Implicit Memory Recall in Crime Witnesses

The emerging field of “neurocriminology” involves the application of neuroscience to the field of criminology and the investigation of ways in which neuroscience may contribute to criminological research. Example applications include the use of brain imaging to understand disorders linked to criminal behaviour, the application of neurophysiological methods for lie detection, and analysis of electrodermal and electrocardiogram activities to detect lies or concealed crime-related information. The field of neurocriminology may also provide novel and robust solutions to crime scene investigation, and specifically relating to crime witnesses. Witnessing a crime is an emotionally stressful event and can elicit strong emotional responses, which may lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with severe consequences for the witness, including loss of explicit memory recall of the traumatic event. The latter is important from a crime investigation point of view, as sometimes a witness may be the only source of information relating to a crime and law enforcement officers often rely on witness reports and witness identification of potential suspects. Another issue is that identification accuracy decreases as the time between witnessing a crime and being asked by law enforcement to provide a statement or identify a suspect lengthens.

The project investigates whether the field of Neurocriminology may provide crime witness-related aspects of declining explicit memory recall over time, explicit memory loss due to strong emotional responses and accuracy of recalled information relating to a crime. The project will use a combination of pre-existing crime scene videos, questionnaires and experimental neurophysiological data collection to assess recall of information relevant to a crime. The aim is to compare the quality of information recall using features extracted from the neurophysiological activity of the ‘witness’ (implicit memory), in comparison to written recall of information that is commonly provided in the form of a ‘witness statement’ (explicit memory). The proposed project will also allow us to identify the neurophysiological changes that characterize emotional responses elicited during crime witnessing, and which may also be related to PTSD. The findings will contribute not only towards the use of neurophysiological activity as means of implicit memory recall of information related to having witnessed a crime, but also towards identifying the neurophysiological mechanisms behind emotional trauma and PTSD.

  The Scholarship:

The PhD project comes with a Research Scholarship that includes:

• A monthly stipend of €1,500 (up to 36 months).

This scholarship is designated for full-time commitment and is subject to annual renewal based on the recipient’s satisfactory academic progress, with maximum renewal period of three years.

• Eligible Candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence) either a recognised degree (BSc or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree) and a Master’s degree (MSc) in the field(s) of Neuroscience and/or Computer Science and/or Biomedical Sciences and/or Biomedical Engineering , or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
• Programming skills (e.g., MATLAB®, Python) and/or experience with EEG data collection and analysis, will be considered advantageous, but not required. Relevant training will be provided.
• A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Scholarship in the field Neuroscience / Biomedical Sciences for the PhD Research Project ‘PHD-2023-1: The Brain on the Witness Stand: Investigating Implicit Memory Recall in Crime Witnesses’.

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Doctoral Programmes

Doctoral programmes (sake).

in Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

by Ευαγγελία Κατσαμάκη (Evangelia Katsamaki)

Doctoral Programmes (SOED)

in Faculty of Economics and Management

Doctoral Programmes (STHEE)

in Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences

Criminology (PhD)

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Learning outcomes, academic path, semester breakdown, adjunct faculty, profile of the programme.

The objective of the PhD programme is to provide students with a coherent and intellectually challenging degree that prepares them to conduct research among the many aspects of criminology and criminal justice, varying with individual interests and areas of specialty.

More specifically to:

• Develop students’ in depth understanding and critical analysis of current literature and research methodology in the field of Criminology.
• Provide students with a critical awareness of current problems and debates within the field, and enhance their skills in critical evaluation of theoretical and empirical literature relevant to criminological and criminal justice research.
• Develop students’ understanding in applying research competencies to practical issues, and develop skills in communicating criminological knowledge to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Make a significant contribution to the status of criminal justice and criminology as a discipline, through the advancement of knowledge and professional practice within the sector.
• Enable students to independently acquire and interpret additional knowledge relating to research, and an understanding of the quality of work required to satisfy peer review for potential publications.
• Give students a broad understanding of research approaches and methods which will enable them to read and comprehend a wide range of academic research papers to enhance their research competence and facilitate the development of future research activities.

Career Prospects

A PhD in Criminology prepares students to lead change and/or policy making in the communities or the organisations they choose to work:

• Academia (Research/Teaching Faculty)
• Law enforcement agencies
• Probation and parole services
• Correctional settings
• Social services
• Research and analysis for government or private consulting firms

The minimum requirement for admission to the doctoral degree programme is a Master’s Degree and a Thesis Proposal.

In addition to the above, applicants must also satisfy the following requirements:

The Master’s Degree should be in the areas of Humanities and/or Social Sciences (i.e. Criminology, Psychology, Law, Sociology or other relevant disciplines)

English Language Proficiency

Students satisfy the English requirements if their first degree was taught in English. Otherwise, they would need to present a minimum TOEFL score of 550 paper-based or 213 computer-based, GCSE “O” Level with minimum “C” or IELTS with a score of 6.5.

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By the end of the period of doctoral study, students are expected to:

• Comprehend basic principles of research design, including an understanding of how to conceptualize criminological research, formulate researchable problems, and construct and test hypotheses.
• Be able to demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field.
• Be able to manage successfully all the stages of a research project, including managing data, and conducting and disseminating research in a way that is consistent with both professional practice and the normal principles of research ethics.
• Apply expert knowledge in specific areas of the discipline, such as Law, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Courts, Social Services etc.
• Be able to explain and identify open problems and areas needing development in their fields.
• Be able to act autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.
• Exhibit competence in the use of quantitative and qualitative methodologies in criminological enquiry and exhibit skills in the use of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods.
• Develop skills in the dissemination of findings to the wider academic community, initially through writing-up their Thesis and then through publishing their work in academic journals and/or giving presentations in academic conferences and seminars.
• Challenge current assumptions and accepted practice within the areas of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
• Demonstrate a reflective approach to their research, professional development and application to their own area of practice.

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