Louis-David Lord (DPhil Psychiatry, 2014)

Louis-David Lord joined Hertford upon being awarded the Mann Senior Scholarship. His DPhil research aims to help pioneer the emerging field of computational neuropsychiatry.

For my DPhil, I am studying the large-scale dynamics of human brain networks using various mathematical and computational approaches. Communication patterns between brain regions can be estimated using neuroimaging, and summarized as network representations of brain activity, which is why I am using network-based models of brain function to understand how a dynamical balance is achieved between the complementary needs for both the segregation and integration of information processing. I am particularly investigating the effects of psychedelic drugs (i.e. LSD and psilocybin) on the human brain, as these compounds acutely alter not only one’s perception of the world, but the brain’s global functional network activity.

In the long-term, I would like to pursue a career in academic medicine and contribute to the development of clinical applications of network-neuroscience and computational modelling for neurological and psychiatric care. It’s an exciting and challenging area of biomedicine where scientific and clinical advances are greatly needed!

I expected postgraduate life in Oxford to be academically intense, and was confident that the University would provide me with the opportunity to conduct world-class research in my field, should I invest the right amount of focus and dedication into my studies. Oxford has certainly met, if not exceeded, my expectations on that front! The opportunities for intellectual and professional growth in Oxford are basically limitless, and it is extremely motivating to engage with outstanding students and academics from all over the world on a daily basis.

I was only vaguely familiar with the collegiate system when applying to Oxford, and had underestimated the extent to which becoming actively involved in College life would positively impact my overall experience as a graduate student. I have been truly inspired by the friendliness, talent, and humbleness of the many Hertfordians I’ve had the chance to meet thus far. The Hertford MCR is an uniquely fun, diverse and inclusive community where one can let his/her unique personality shine through, whether discussing their academic pursuits, or having a lighthearted chat over some drinks. I am grateful that Hertford has not only provided me with generous financial support towards my doctoral studies, but welcomed me into such a positive and supportive academic community in which I feel very much at home.