May 2015 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

15 PhD positions for PACE, an EU funded Innovative Training Network for understanding Perception and Action in Complex Environments
by Laurent Perrinet 19 May '16

19 May '16

Dear colleagues, PACE (Perception and Action in Complex Environments) is an Innovative Training Network funded by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie program of the European Union starting on April 1st, 2015. The network involves 10 academic and private full partners, from 6 European and associated countries (France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, UK, Israel), plus 5 associated partners (private companies and public organizations). The network gathers a broad range of expertise from experimental psychology, cognitive neurosciences, brain imaging, technology and clinical sciences as well as transferable skills. The PACE network promotes interdisciplinary research and training in the field of human movement sciences with a strong emphasis on perception-action coupling in complex environments. We focus on changes of this coupling across lifespan and in pathological diseases affecting the nervous system. The goal is to train PhD students through collaborative research projects, international courses and workshops. -> 15 PhD positions, starting next fall, are offered across the different network sites. You can find a short description of the proposed PhD projects at the following link: http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/IMG/pdf/PACE_Table_positions.pdf Applications are welcome immediately and until the end of May (but some specific timing constraints may be enforced in some of the partners' sites: please get more information from local contacts). You will find further general information (sections 1 to 3), eligibility and application conditions (section 4) here: http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/-ITN-Marie-Curie-network-PACE Thanks for distributing this announcement to potential candidates, Laurent -- Laurent Perrinet - INT (UMR 7289)/CNRS http://invibe.net/LaurentPerrinet

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NEURAL COMPUTATION - April, 2014
by Terry Sejnowski 24 Apr '16

24 Apr '16

Neural Computation - Contents -- Volume 26, Number 4 - April 1, 2014 Available online for download now: http://www.mitpressjournals.org/toc/neco/26/4 ----- Article Parametric Inference in the Large Data Limit Using Maximally Informative Models Justin Block Kinney, Gurinder Singh Atwal Letters Input Statistics and Hebbian Crosstalk Effects Anca R. Radulescu Learning Nonlinear Regularities in Natural Images by Modeling the Outer Product of Image Intensities Peng Qi, Xiaolin Hu Dissociable Forms of Repetition Priming: A Computational Model Kirill Makukhin, Scott Bolland Refined Rademacher Chaos Complexity Bounds With Applications to the Multi-Kernel Learning Problem Yunwen Lei, Lixin Ding Large Margin Low Rank Tensor Analysis Guoqiang Zhong, Mohamed Cheriet Large-scale Linear RankSVM Ching-Pei Lee, Chih-Jen Lin ------------ ON-LINE -- http://www.mitpressjournals.org/neuralcomp SUBSCRIPTIONS - 2014 - VOLUME 26 - 12 ISSUES USA Others Electronic Only Student/Retired $70 $193 $65 Individual $124 $187 $115 Institution $1,035 $1,098 $926 Canada: Add 5% GST MIT Press Journals, 238 Main Street, Suite 500, Cambridge, MA 02142-9902 Tel: (617) 253-2889 FAX: (617) 577-1545 journals-orders(a)mit.edu ------------

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v5.7 of NeuroMorpho.Org released on 30 May, 2014
by NeuroMorpho Administrator 10 Mar '16

10 Mar '16

Version 5.7 of NeuroMorpho.Org was released on 30 May, 2014. The release included 29 new data sets (1341 reconstructions), including from three new animal species (dragonfly, moth, and sheep). The database now contains 11,335 reconstructions from 144 contributing labs. More than 3.2 million reconstructions were downloaded in over 130,000 unique visits from 146 countries. Please visit the What's new<http://neuromorpho.org/neuroMorpho/WIN.jsp> page for details on data included in this release, including new species strains, brain regions, cell types, and experimental conditions. The Acknowledgements <http://neuromorpho.org/neuroMorpho/acknowl.jsp> include details on contributing labs, and the About<http://neuromorpho.org/neuroMorpho/about.jsp> page provides an updated overview of the repository content. A new user-friendly functionality, OntoSearch<http://neuromorpho.org/neuroMorpho/OntoSearch.jsp>, was introduced in this release, enabling more powerful searches of species and strains with automated synonym translation, taxonomical relations, and keyword auto-completion. The literature coverage database was also updated to include publications through March 2014. We are continuously grateful to all the data owners who freely share their data with the community. We always appreciate any and all feedback and comments. Sincerely, The NeuroMorpho.Org team -- Ruchi Parekh, Ph.D. NeuroMorpho.Org Project Lead Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Neural Informatics, Structures, and Plasticity Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study MS2A1, George Mason University Fairfax, VA 22030 (USA) Ph - +1-703-993-4382<tel:%2B1-703-993-4382> www.neuromorpho.org<http://www.neuromorpho.org/> nmadmin(a)gmu.edu<mailto:nmadmin@gmu.edu>?

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FACULTY POSITION IN QUANTITATIVE LIFE SCIENCES AT ICTP, TRIESTE ITALY
by Matteo Marsili 14 Jan '16

14 Jan '16

FACULTY POSITION IN QUANTITATIVE LIFE SCIENCES AT THE ABDUS SALAM INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR THEORETICAL PHYSICS (ICTP). ICTP is seeking applicants for a new faculty position in its recently established Quantitative Life Sciences (QLS) research section. QLS responds to the theoretical challenges arising from recent advances in large-scale experiments in biology and neurosciences. The successful applicant will play a leading role in establishing the new section, promoting cutting-edge research in quantitative biology and supervising graduate students. Areas of interest include systems biology, biological networks, systems and computational neuroscience. Applicants should have an outstanding international reputation with at least 4 years of scientific research experience. The position, which will start in October 2015, will be at the P3 UNESCO level, with a starting salary of $78100. Other benefits include family allowance, home travel, education grant for dependent children, pension plan and medical insurance. Full details of the position, along with a link to the UNESCO online application, are available on ICTP's employment webpage and at http://www.ictp.it/about-ictp/personnel-office/employment.aspx <http://www.ictp.it/about-ictp/personnel-office/employment.aspx> The deadline is 3 June 2015. For further information please contact ICTP's Personnel Office at personnel_office(a)ictp.it <mailto:personnel_office@ictp.it>. ICTP, based in Trieste, Italy, provides a top class multi-disciplinary research environment in theoretical sciences, with cutting edge research, education and training, and it has been a driving force behind global efforts for the advancement of science in the developing world.

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PhD positions in computational neuroscience
by Dan Goodman 02 Nov '15

02 Nov '15

One or more PhD positions in computational neuroscience are available in the Neural Reckoning Group of Dan Goodman at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Imperial College London. I am interested in supervising students with a strong mathematical, computational or neuroscience background. Projects could be carried out in several possible areas, including neuroinformatics (i.e simulation and analysis of neural data) or sensory neuroscience (e.g. spiking neural models in the auditory system). For more information about the group, including some suggestions for research topics, see http://neural-reckoning.org/openings.html. In addition to working within the group, studying at Imperial College provides excellent opportunities for interacting with other theoretical and experimental researchers, both at Imperial (recently ranked 2nd in the world in the QS world university rankings) and in the many neuroscience groups in London. Applicants should initially send me a brief CV and cover letter with a description of research interests or a proposed project, and will eventually have to formally apply through the standard Imperial College mechanism (for more information, see http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/electricalengineering/courses/phd) Funding is available for at least one student, and there are several competitive funding schemes at Imperial which would provide funding for additional students. Also, please forward this message on to any of your students or colleagues with students that you think may be interested. Dan Goodman

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Neuroscience Graduate Group at the University of Pennsylvania
by Joshua Gold 08 Oct '15

08 Oct '15

The Neuroscience Graduate Group (NGG) at the University of Pennsylvania is a collaborative and interdisciplinary PhD program that is currently accepting applications for matriculation in the fall of 2015. We are particularly interested in attracting exceptional applicants with backgrounds in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, and/or Psychology and are interested in the broadly defined field of Computational Neuroscience. We have a robust and growing community of scholars in this field, including: Vijay Balasubramanian, Department of Physics Danielle S Bassett, Department of Bioengineering David H Brainard, Department of Psychology Maja Bucan, Department of Genetics Johannes Burge, Department of Psychology Alice S Chen-Plotkin, Department of Neurology Brian Chow, Department of Bioengineering Yale E Cohen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology Diego Contreras, Department of Neuroscience Christopher M Fang-Yen, Department of Bioengineering Maria Neimark Geffen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology Joshua I Gold, Department of Neuroscience John B Hogenesch, Department of Pharmacology Joseph W Kable, Department of Psychology Michael J Kahana, Department of Psychology Max Kelz, Department of Anesthesiology Brian Litt, Departments of Neurology and Bioengineering Joel D Mainland, Department of Neuroscience Javier F Medina, Department of Psychology Nicole C Rust, Department of Psychology Robert G Smith, Department of Neuroscience Alan A Stocker, Department of Psychology Penn also has strong programs in Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology with faculty actively involved in machine learning, decision making, perception, and computational learning theory. NGG students are encouraged to pursue collaborations and interactions with these groups. The application deadline for the NGG is December 1, 2014. For more details please see our website: http://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/app_info.shtml ----- Joshua Gold University of Pennsylvania Department of Neuroscience 116 Johnson Pavilion 3610 Hamilton Walk Philadelphia, PA 19104-6074 office phone: 215-746-0028 lab phone: 215-746-0168 e-mail: jigold(a)mail.med.upenn.edu http://www.med.upenn.edu/goldlab

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Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, PhD Programme
by Peter Dayan 24 Sep '15

24 Sep '15

Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, University College London 4 year PhD Programme The Gatsby Unit is a centre for theoretical neuroscience and machine learning, focusing on unsupervised, semi-supervised and reinforcement learning, neural dynamics, population coding, Bayesian and nonparametric statistics, kernel methods, and applications of these to the analysis of perceptual processing, neural data, machine vision and bioinformatics. It provides a unique opportunity for a critical mass of theoreticians to interact closely with each other, and with other world-class research groups in related departments at UCL, including the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, with which we will shortly share a building, and Biosciences, Computer Science, Functional Imaging, Physics, Physiology, Psychology, Neurology, Ophthalmology and Statistics, the cross-faculty Centre for Computational Statistics and Machine Learning, and also with other UK and overseas universities. The Unit has openings for exceptional PhD candidates. Applicants should have a strong analytical background, a keen interest in neuroscience and/or machine learning and a relevant first degree, for example in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics, Psychology or Statistics. The PhD programme lasts four years, including a first year of intensive instruction in techniques and research in theoretical neuroscience and machine learning. All students are fully funded, regardless of nationality. The Unit also welcomes applications from students with pre-secured funding or who are currently soliciting other scholarship/studentships. We will review applications as soon as they are complete (including a CV, statement of research interests and letters from three referees) until the positions are filled. Early application is thus advised. Full details of our programme, and how to apply, are available at: http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/teaching/phd For further details of research interests please see http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/research.html and the individual faculty webpages at http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/members.html

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PhD studentships in computational neuroscience and machine learning
by Steuber, Volker 28 Aug '15

28 Aug '15

Applications are invited for PhD studentships in the Biocomputation Research Group at the Science and Technology Research Institute at the University of Hertfordshire. PhD projects involve the development of computer simulations of neurons and neuronal networks to study information processing in the brain, and/or the application of machine learning techniques to analyse electrophysiological data. More details about our research and a list of potential projects can be found on our homepage (http://homepages.herts.ac.uk/~comqvs/research.html) Applicants should have good computational and numerical skills and an excellent first degree in computer science, biology, maths, physics, neuroscience, or a related discipline. Previous experience in neuroscience is not required but would be an advantage. Successful candidates are eligible for a research studentship award from the University (approximately GBP 13,800 per annum bursary plus the payment of the standard UK student fees). Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible, but will have to pay half of the overseas fees out of their bursary. Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognized as excellent by the latest Research Assessment Exercise, with 55% of the research submitted being rated as world leading or internationally excellent. The Science and Technology Research Institute provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialized and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training opportunities. The University of Hertfordshire is situated in Hatfield, in the green belt just north of London. Please contact Dr Volker Steuber (v.steuber @ herts.ac.uk) for informal enquiries. Application forms can be obtained from Mrs Lorraine Nicholls, Research Student Administrator, STRI, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, Tel: 01707 286083, l.nicholls @ herts.ac.uk. The short-listing process will begin on 9 June 2014.

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Neural Metrics 2.0 : Deadline approaching (June 15th)
by Marcel van Gerven 05 Jun '15

05 Jun '15

Neural Metrics 2.0 : Connectomics & Large-Scale Methods The Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour/Radboud University is organizing a summer school on neural metrics with the aim to get participants acquainted with the quantitative analysis of neural organisation and function. In Neural Metrics 2.0 we will build on the success from the previous year, focussing on methods for understanding brain networks such as connectomics as well as large scale and Bayesian methods, with world class speakers, hands-on tutorials, student projects and an interactive debate. The topics covered range from cellular connectomics to human functional connectomics. The course is designed for PhD students and starting postdoctoral researchers working at the interface between cognitive neuroscience and the application of advanced methods. Please consult the Radboud Summer school website (http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/ <http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/>) for details on the program, social events and registration. Further details for the Neural Metrics Summer School can be found below and on the website (http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/courses/brain-behaviour/@972443/neural… <http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/courses/brain-behaviour/@972443/neural…>). Dates : Monday 10 August - Friday 14 August 2015 (1 week) Application Deadline : 15 June 2015 Course leaders : Bernhard Englitz, Marcel van Gerven, Fleur Zeldenrust, Tansu Celikel Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour & Radboud University Participant profile : This course was developed for PhD students and early postdoctoral researchers working at the interface between cellular and cognitive neuroscience requiring advanced methods of analysis. This includes research in the field of Neuroscience with an MSc in Biology, Computer Science, Psychology, Physics, Al, Mathematics, Engineering or a similar major. Admission requirements : As part of the admission procedure, we ask you to send us your CV and a brief motivation letter in which you explain your interest in our course. Course fee : 600 Euros The course fee includes the registration fee, course materials, access to library and IT facilities, coffee/tea, lunch, and a number of social activities. Accommodation is available for the course participants (additional charges apply). For details please see http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/practical-matters/housing/ <http://www.ru.nl/radboudsummerschool/practical-matters/housing/> Discounts : • 15% discount for students and PhD candidates from Radboud University and partner universities, Confirmed Speakers (alphabetical): > Misha Ahrens (HHMI, Janelia) > Matthias Bethge (University Tübingen) > Vincent Bonin (VIB, Leuven) > Romain Brette (Institut de la Vision, Paris) > Kevin Briggman (NIH, Bethesda) > Tansu Celikel (Donders Institute, Nijmegen) > Moritz Helmstädter (MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt) > Henry Kennedy (INSERM, Lyon) > Timm Lochmann (TU Berlin) > David Norris (Donders Institute, Nijmegen) > Rémi Proville (Donders Institute, Nijmegen) > Andrew Reid (FZ Jülich) > Jan Schnupp (Oxford University) > Alessandro Treves (SISSA, Trieste) > Fleur Zeldenrust (Univ. Amsterdam)

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Reminder: NCCD-2015 registration deadline
by pedro goncalves 31 May '15

31 May '15

New early registration deadline: June 4th. The list of oral and poster presentations can be found at http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/nccd/nccd15/abstracts/ *********************************************************** Neural Coding, Computation and Dynamics (NCCD) August 30 - September 2, 2015 Bilbao, Spain http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/nccd/nccd15/ The goal of this workshop is to bring together experimentalists and theoreticians who seek to understand how circuit dynamics underlies representation and function in the nervous system, and to foster real discussion. This year the workshop will focus on the interplay between excitation (E) and inhibition (I) in cortical circuits. The balance between E and I, an idea proposed twenty years ago to account for the stochastic nature of cortical activity, has been seminal in the understanding of basic principles of neural network dynamics. We are seeking talks that, building on this paradigm, present recent findings on topics such as neuronal variability and stochastic dynamics, the role of the different subtypes of interneurons, plasticity and structure in EI networks, brain state and network dynamics, etc. The workshop will be limited to about 70 people, the hope being to foster real interaction and discussion. Important dates: May 15: Abstracts due (there will be posters and contributed talks) June 4th: Early registration due Confirmed invited speakers: Dean Buonomano, University of California at Los Angeles Jess Cardin, Yale School of Medicine Sophie Denève, ENS Brent Doiron, University of Pittsburgh Andrea Hasenstaub, UCSF Mike Hausser, UCL Carl Petersen, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne Karel Svoboda, Janelia Farm Tim Vogels, University of Oxford Fred Wolf, University of Gottingen Best, Peter Latham Jaime de la Rocha Maneesh Sahani Pedro Goncalves Co-organizers

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Machine Learning & Auditory Processing Position at TU Berlin
by Ivo Trowitzsch 28 May '15

28 May '15

Technische Universitaet Berlin, department of Neural Information Processing, offers a position in an international collaborative project set in auditory processing and modeling, robotics and machine learning. The successful candidate will develop and apply machine learning and signal processing techniques in an active computational model of auditory perception in order to detect and annotate acoustic events in an auditory scene analysis and an quality of experience setting. Project and position are part of the TWO!EARS project which is funded through the EU FET Open scheme (see brief description below). Starting date: Immediate Salary level: E-13 TV-L The position is until the end of 2016. Candidates should hold a recent PhD-degree or Diplom-/Master- degree, should have excellent programming skills in an object-oriented language (MATLAB will be used) and good knowledge in the machine learning field. Research experience in machine learning or applications to auditory processing is an asset. Application material (CV, list of publications, abstract of PhD thesis (if applicable), abstract of Diplom-/Master/Thesis, copies of certificates and two letters of reference -- but those can also be handed in later) should be sent to: Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer MAR 5-6, Technische Universitaet Berlin, Marchstrasse 23 10587 Berlin, Germany http://www.ni.tu-berlin.de/ email: oby(a)cs.tu-berlin.de preferably by email. TUB seeks to increase the proportion of women and particularly encourages women to apply. Women will be preferred given equal qualification. Disabled persons will be preferred given equal qualification. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Consortium Summary: TWO!EARS replaces current thinking about auditory modeling by a systemic approach in which human listeners are regarded as multi-modal agents that develop their concept of the world by exploratory interaction. The goal of the project is to develop an intelligent, active computational model of auditory perception and experience in a multi-modal context. Our novel approach is based on a structural link from binaural perception to judgment and action, realized by interleaved signal-driven (bottom-up) and hypothesis-driven (top-down) processing within an innovative expert system architecture. The system achieves object formation based on Gestalt principles, meaning assignment, knowledge acquisition and representation, learning, logic-based reasoning and reference-based judgment. More specifically, the system assigns meaning to acoustic events by combining signal- and symbol-based processing in a joint model structure, integrated with proprioceptive and visual percepts. It is therefore able to describe an acoustic scene in much the same way that a human listener can, in terms of the sensations that sounds evoke (e.g. loudness, timbre, spatial extent) and their semantics (e.g. whether the sound is unexpected or a familiar voice). Our system will be implemented on a robotic platform, which will actively parse its physical environment, orientate itself and move its sensors in a humanoid manner. The system has an open architecture, so that it can easily be modified or extended. This is crucial, since the cognitive functions to be modeled are domain and application specific. TWO!EARS will have significant impact on future development of ICT wherever knowledge and control of aural experience is relevant. It will also benefit research in related areas such as biology, medicine and sensory and cognitive psychology. -- Ivo Trowitzsch Research Assistant @ Neural Information Processing Group, TU Berlin

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CFP EUCOG 2015
by Prof. Dr. Jordi Vallverdú 28 May '15

28 May '15

*Call for Papers* EUCOG2015 Annual Meeting of the European Society of Cognitive Systems (Meeting of the EUCognition Network) 25-26.09.2015 Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona ORGANISERS: Jordi Vallverdú & Vincent C. Müller http://www.eucognition.org/index.php?page=eacs-barcelona-2015-gen-info Program Commitee: Varol Akman, Bilkent University, Ankara Istvan Berkeley The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Ron Chrisley Sussex University David Casacuberta Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Mark Coeckelbergh University of Twente Eric Dietrich Binghamton University James Fetzer University of Minnesota, Duluth Stefano Franchi Texas A&M University Antoni Gomila Universitat Illes Balears Claudius Gros Institute for Theoretical Physics Lorenzo Magnani University of Pavia, Italy Klaus Mainzer Technische Universität München Gualtiero Piccinini University of Missouri - St. Louis Oron Shagrir Hebrew University Mark Sprevak University of Edinburgh Ioannis Votsis Heinrich-Heine Universität Düsseldorf Tom Ziemke University of Skövde Max Talanov Kazan Federal University Manuel Bedia Universidad de Zaragoza Bruno Lara Universidad de Cuernavaca ========================================= ABSTRACTS We request anonymous abstracts of 600-1000 words (plus references) in plain text or PDF, plus a short abstract of up to 120 words. Accepted papers will be presented at the conference (orally or as posters) and published in the proceedings. (We plan to provide a copy of the proceedings to the corresponding author.) We foresee slots of at least 20 minutes per talk. All submissions will be reviewed double-blind by at least two members of the programme committee. Submission online at EasyChair: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=eucog2015 Technical note: The EasyChair system will ask you for an "abstract" and a "paper". For us, "abstract" refers to the short abstract (up to 120 words) in plain text, while "paper" refers to the long abstract (600-1000 words), which can be submitted as a PDF or plain text. Accordingly, please do not use the check-box "Abstract Only". (The abbreviation "Corr. Auth." stands for "corresponding author".) *Send to:* https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=eucog2015 ========================================= DATES & DEADLINES May 10th, 2015 Call For Papers, abstract submission opens June 1st, 2015 Congress registration opens July 1st, 2015 Deadline for submission of abstracts July 15th, 2015 Notifications of acceptance August 30th, 2015 Deadline for early registrations September 25th-26th EUCOG2015 ========================================= THEMES "Cognitive systems" is to be broadly understood as an interlinked research of natural and artificial cognitive systems. We welcome participants from all disciplines that are relevant for fundamental issues of present and future robotics and AI, especially cognitive science, computer science, neuroscience and philosophy. We are especially interested in bioinspired techniques, models and methods. • AI and cognitive science • autonomous vehicles • cognitive systems in industry • communication (verbal and non-verbal) • dynamical systems • embedded, situated, distributed cognition • embodiment, enaction, morphology • social impact of AI and robotics • goals, emotions, values, free will • grounded cognition • hybrid systems, cyborgs • interactive systems • learning, evolution • neuroscience and cognitive systems • multi-agent systems • perception, sensing • performance and intelligence testing • real-world systems • robotics • robustness and adaptability • ... ========================================= PUBLICATION Details on the publication for 2015 are not yet finalized but we will publish a volume of proceedings to include all accepted papers, planned to be published within 6 months of the event. Submission and presentation at the conference do not entail an obligation of the author(s) to publish in the conference proceedings. ========================================= Prof. Dr. Jordi Vallverdú, B. Phil, B. Mus, M.Sci, Ph.D. Room B7/104, Philosophy Dept. UAB 08193 Bellaterra (BCN) CATALONIA ------------------- FULL CV/Publications: https://uab.academia.edu/JordiVallverdu <https://uab.academia.edu/JordiVallverd%C3%BA> ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9975-7780 ResearcherID: http://www.researcherid.com/rid/K-5536-2014 Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jordi_Vallverdu

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Save the date! Next GDR Multielectrode/NeuralNet Conference and Minischool: Jan 5-8, 2016
by Blaise Yvert 28 May '15

28 May '15

Dear colleagues, This is the first announcement that the next conference of the GDR Multielectrode - becoming soon (hopefully) GDR NeuralNet - will be held in Grenoble on January 6-8, 2016. We chose to delay a bit this edition in order to organize the conference in the Vercors mountain (http://www.escandille.com/) The conference will start on Jan 6 late afternoon and end on Jan 8 afternoon. Not sure there will be snow at this period, but we hope the calm of Vercors will foster creative thinking and interactions! Because lodging will be provided on site, a (reasonable) registration fee will be asked to cover the corresponding cost and secure the organization. The minischool preceding the conference will take place in downtown Grenoble on January 5-6 (lodging not provided). The program and registration organization is under preparation, but please save already these dates to make this new event as rich as possible ! Looking forward welcoming you all, Kind regards, Blaise on behalf of the organizing committee: Tetiana AKSENOVA Julien BASTIN Florent BOCQUELET Olivier DAVID Cécile DELACOUR Antoine DEPAULIS Samuel GARCIA Philippe KAHANE Sandrine MAUBERT Gaëlle OFFRANC PIRET Christophe POUZAT Anne QUESNEL-HELLMANN Blaise YVERT -- Blaise Yvert. Inserm Research Director Clinatec Laboratory UA01 Biomedical Research Center Edmond J Safra CEA-INSERM-UJF-CHU Grenoble Minatec Campus 17 rue des Martyrs 38054 Grenoble cedex 09 Tel. +33 4 38 78 91 38 / +33 6 32 88 75 90 Fax. +33 4 38 78 53 55 http://www.clinatec.fr (under construction)

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postdoctoral position in human connectomics
by Olaf Sporns 27 May '15

27 May '15

*Postdoctoral/Assistant Research Scientist Position in Human Connectomics* Indiana University is making a multi-year, multi-million dollar investment to create and expand the infrastructure for research and training in network science through the establishment of the Indiana University Network Science Institute (IUNI – http://iuni.iu.edu ). IUNI seeks applicants for a postdoctoral position as Assistant Research Scientist in the area of Human Connectomics. This position will be appointed for a two-year term with the possibility of renewal based on exemplary performance and continued funding. The position involves close collaboration with the Computational Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory (www.indiana.edu/~cortex <http://www.indiana.edu/%7Ecortex> – Head: Olaf Sporns) and the Indiana University Center for Neuroimaging (http://neuroimaging.medicine.iu.edu/ - Director: Andrew J. Saykin). Research goals focus on the application of sophisticated network analysis and modeling methods to multimodal human neuroimaging data sets, including advanced diffusion imaging, structural MRI and resting-state fMRI, in both healthy and clinical populations. A major application focus is on prodromal stages of Alzheimer’s disease and many other clinical populations, including TBI, non-CNS cancer and psychosis, are also being investigated.In addition to close collaboration with Drs. Sporns, Saykin and colleagues, the successful candidate will be encouraged to interact with IU’s growing community of network scientists. A full position description and instructions for how to apply can be found at: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/hr/postings/1490 For informal inquiries please contact Olaf Sporns at osporns(a)indiana.edu <mailto:osporns@indiana.edu> -- Olaf Sporns -- @spornslab Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Programs in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405

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20 scholarships: TIM-Telecom Italia and Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna - Master in Digital Life & Smart Living
by Calogero Oddo 27 May '15

27 May '15

Call for scholarship applications within the Master "Digital Life & Smart Living (SMART)" 2015-2016 (www.sssup.it/smart) 20 scholarships are offered to European citizens by TIM-Telecom Italia in partnership with Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna in Pisa. 2 scholarships are reserved for non European Union citizens. All admitted students will receive a total gross amount of € 12.000 scholarship payment to cover transportation and accommodation expenses. All Master tuition fees are covered by TIM-Telecom Italia. This Master is a post-graduate university programme designed for students that own a Master of Science degree. It trains students for a potential hiring in one of the most innovative new-technology multinationals in the world, TIM-Telecom Italia. 80% of participants to the first edition of the Master have been employed by TIM. Application is on-line: www.sssup.it/smart/application Submission deadline: June 18, 2015 The main goal of the Master is to train young graduate talented students who will acquire the competence to design, develop and manage communication systems and "Smart" innovative technologies. The graduated will have the capacity to manage and control advanced technologies in ICT, Robotics and Biorobotics, Software Engineering and Telecommunication Engineering, for the design and management of Smart Solutions. The 20 Master students will attend intensive and exciting series of lessons taught in English, alternating with laboratory experiments, company case-study experiences and seminars (600 hours). In the final stage, an internship at TIM-Telecom Italia will be provided in order to gain direct experience in the fields of business and technologies (750 hours). Total time commitment: Sept. 7, 2015 - Sept. 5, 2016 The Master Degree programme has been developed by TIM-Telecom Italia and faculty members of The BioRobotics Institute, the Institute of Management, and The Institute of Communication, Information and Perception Technologies of Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy. For more information: www.sssup.it/smart www.santannaschool.eu Secretariat contacts: Federica Faldella Mail: master-smart(a)sssup.it Phone: +39 050 88 2671 Best regards, Calogero Oddo and Paolo Dario -- Calogero M. Oddo Assistant Professor of Biomedical Robotics Head of the Human Machine Nexus Laboratory, Neuro-robotics Area The BioRobotics Institute Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna Polo Sant'Anna Valdera Viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34 56025 Pontedera (Pisa) - Italy email: calogero.oddo(a)sssup.it http://sssa.bioroboticsinstitute.it/user/102 -- Paolo Dario Professor of Biomedical Robotics IEEE Fellow Director, The BioRobotics Institute Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna Polo Sant'Anna Valdera Viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34 56025 Pontedera (Pisa) - Italy email: paolo.dario(a)sssup.it http://sssa.bioroboticsinstitute.it/

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Available Slot for Intensive Talks at CNS 2015 Workshop on "Rate vs. Temporal Coding"
by Milad Lankarany 26 May '15

26 May '15

The workshop on "Rate vs. Temporal Coding: Mutually Exclusive or Cooperatively Co-existing <https://sites.google.com/site/cnsworkshop2015ratevstime/>" will be held at CNS 2015 (Prague), on July 22nd. Our workshop hosts 8 prestigious speakers, presenting their recent researches in 30 minutes, as well as a few number of intensive talks, each lasting 10-12 minutes. Honestly speaking, this is a new schedule for our workshop that we want to try, for the first time, a workshop comprising larger talks (30 mins) + short intensive talks (10-12 mins). As the intensive talks are short, we would like to invite more speakers. So, any scientist that participates in CNS 2015 and is interested in our workshop can send me his/her request and the title of the presentation. Email: milad.lankarany(a)sickkids.ca. Many thanks, Milad Lankarany, Ph.D. <https://sites.google.com/site/miladlankarani/> Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Prescott Lab, Neuroscience & Mental Health, Peter Gilgan Center for Research & Learning, Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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open PhD position at INT-Marseille, France: Predicting and selecting sensory events: inference for smooth eye movements
by Laurent Perrinet 25 May '15

25 May '15

Dear colleagues, Applications are welcome immediately and until the end of May for a PhD position at INT-Marseille, France: Predicting and selecting sensory events: inference for smooth eye movements In everyday life, we constantly need to track relevant moving targets in complex environments with our eyes such as, for instance, when we try to catch someone running in the crowd. However, this seemingly simple task demands to deal with several dynamic sources of uncertainty, related to intrinsic, target-related properties or to external, environment-related factors. In addition, one single object has to be selected at a time for accurate visual processing and ocular tracking in presence of a multitude of competing signals. The PhD project aims at understanding the /dynamic inference and decision processes underlying smooth eye movements/. The PhD fellow will conduct psychophysics and oculomotor recordings on healthy subjects, as well as modeling work, in order to elucidate the effects of sensory uncertainty on the accuracy and the dynamics of visuomotor decisions. Bayesian Inference will provide a general and solid framework for behavioral models. Oculomotor decision times, such as those characterizing the dynamic switch between smooth pursuit and saccades during motion tracking, or transitions between two alternative tracking solutions, will be modeled and benchmarked against the predictions of current models of choice reaction times ("accumulation-to-threshold" models). A potential development of the project, through the PACE European network’s collaborations and secondments (http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/-ITN-Marie-Curie-network-PACE) is to compare dynamic inference for smooth eye movements with other types of movements such as reaching, hitting or manual tracking.To obtain further information or send applications (including a full CV, a letter of motivation, 2 reference names), please contact: Anna.Montagnini(a)univ-amu.fr, Laurent.Perrinet(a)univ-amu.fr or Guillaume.Masson(a)univ-amu.fr. Applications are welcome immediately and until the end of May 2015. Site: InVIBE Team (Inference in Vision and Behavior) - Institut de Neuroscience de la Timone, CNRS & Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille FRANCE – http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/ PhD Supervisors: Guillaume Masson, Anna Montagnini and Laurent Perrinet Position details: This position is funded by the Marie Skodowska-Curie program of the H2020 European Union program, as part of the Innovative Training Network PACE (Perception and Action in Complex Environments). Eligibility : Applicants must hold a Master Degree in Neurosciences or Psychology, or equivalent. Application from students with a background in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Sciences and willing to shift towards neurosciences are encouraged. Under-graduate students from Medicine are also encouraged to apply. Applicants must not have carried out Research activities for more than 4 years after their Master degree (or equivalent) and must not already hold a PhD degree. *EU Conditions of Mobility of Early-Stage Researchers:* Applicants can be of any nationality. They must comply with the rule for trans-national mobility: at the time of recruitment by the host organization, students must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in the country of their host organization for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the reference date. Microsoft Word - ESR1_Description_new.doc Thanks for distributing this announcement to potential candidates, Laurent -- Laurent Perrinet - INT (UMR 7289)/CNRS http://invibe.net/LaurentPerrinet

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Postdoctoral Position in Human Intracranial Physiology at the National Institutes of Health
by Zaghloul, Kareem (NIH/NINDS) [E] 25 May '15

25 May '15

A full-time post-doctoral position focused on understanding the neural correlates of human cognitive function is available in the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the NIH. This position involves studies focused on analyzing and manipulating human intracranial electrophysiological signals, including single-unit activity, local field potentials, and electro corticography (ECoG), captured from patients with medically refractory epilepsy and from patients receiving deep brain stimulation surgery. Manipulations of cortical signals include the use of electrical stimulation and real-time closed-loop feedback. Post-doctoral fellows will join a laboratory aimed at understanding the neural mechanisms that underlie human memory and decision making and at developing novel and innovative techniques to directly communicate with those circuits. We are seeking candidates that are highly creative, motivated, and independent with a Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Candidates must have a strong research background, with a record of relevant publications. Candidates will be encouraged and expected to participate in independent laboratory research, and will be expected to write scholarly manuscripts. Candidates must be able to lead and work well in a team. Candidates should have strong computational, quantitative, and/or engineering skills, with proficiency in developing custom code (Matlab, Python, etc.) for data analysis preferred. Past medical research is not required, but candidates must be willing to perform experiments in a clinical setting. Candidates will interact with clinical staff, graduate students, research fellows, and must have excellent spoken and written English skills. Applicants should submit a brief statement of research activities and interests, a current CV, and names and contact information of at least three references. Salary will be commensurate with experience and accomplishments. To arrange a meeting with the PI and to send materials required for consideration for this appointment please contact Dr. Zaghloul at: zaghloulka(a)mail.nih.gov<mailto:zaghloulka@mail.nih.gov> NIH, an agency of DHHS, is an equal opportunity employer.

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JNNS2015 Call for Papers
by Yoichi Miyawaki 25 May '15

25 May '15

25th Annual Conference of Japanese Neural Network Society (JNNS 2015) Call for Papers Date: September 2(Wed) – 4(Fri), 2015 Place: The University of Electro-Communications (Chofu, Tokyo) Web site:　https://jnns2015.im.uec.ac.jp/en/ Details of call for papers: https://jnns2015.im.uec.ac.jp/en/cfp/ 25th Annual Conference of Japanese Neural Network Society (JNNS 2015) will be held at The University of Electro-Communications (Chofu, Tokyo) during September 2 (Wed) – 4 (Fri), 2015. This is an annual conference of Japanese Neural Network Society (JNNS). In this year, the conference is jointly held with Japan Society for Fuzzy Theory and Intelligent Informatics (SOFT). === Plenary Lecture === Title: Neuromorphic Computing in IBM Speaker: Koichi Kajitani (IBM Research-Tokyo) === Invited Lecture === Title: TBA Speaker: Kunihiko Fukushima (Fuzzy Logic Systems Institute) === Symposium === 1. Present status and problems of brain and mathematical models, and future prediction Speakers: Shinya Nishida (NTT CS Lab), Shinji Nishimoto (CiNet/Osaka Univ.), Hiroshi Yamakawa (dwango) 2. High-performance computing technology accelerates neural network simulation Speakers: Jun Igarashi (OIST), Tetsuya Asai (Hokkaido Univ.), Hirotsugu Okuno (Osaka Univ.), Tadashi Yamazaki (The Univ. of Electro-Communications) 3. Approach of deep learning: from JNNS’s point of view Speakers: Hideki Aso (AIST), Masato Okada (The Univ. of Tokyo), Izumi Ohzawa (Osaka Univ.), Koichi Shinoda (Tokyo Inst. of Technology) === Call of Papers === Submissions are solicited for JNNS 2015 from wide areas of research topics with respect to neural systems, including physiology, psychology, brain imaging, sensation/perception, recognition, motor, cognitive science, artificial intelligence, robotics, mathematical models, learning theory, signal processing, data measurement/analysis technology, machine learning, hardware/software technology, high-performance computing, and algorithm. Members in JNNS or assent societies are eligible to be a presenter. Those who are joining in JNNS 2015 from abroad are welcome to be a presenter if they are non-members. Applicants can be a presenter for only one presentation, but can be listed as coauthors for multiple presentations. JNNS 2015 very welcomes active submissions from private companies as well as academic institutes. See https://jnns2015.im.uec.ac.jp/en/cfp/ for more details. === Schedule === Registration/submission start: May 8 (Friday), 2015 Registration/submission close: June 8 (Monday), 2015 Notice of acceptance (incl. results of talk selection): July 17 (Friday), 2015 Early registration deadline: July 31 (Friday), 2015 (for presenters) August 14 (Friday), 2015 (for others) === Organizing committee === Yutaka Sakaguchi (Chair, The Univ. of Electro-Communications) Shunji Sato (The Univ. of Electro-Communications) Hayaru Shouno (The Univ. of Electro-Communications) Yoichi Miyawaki (The Univ. of Electro-Communications) Tadashi Yamazaki (The Univ. of Electro-Communications) === Sponsor === Japanese Neural Network Society === Cosponsor === Japan Society for Fuzzy Theory and Intelligent Informatics (SOFT) === Contact address === E-mail： contact(a)jnns2015.im.uec.ac.jp

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BIH'15 @ Imperial College London: Bring the Human Brain Projects of the world to one place
by Caroline Li 22 May '15

22 May '15

Call for Abstracts Co-Chaired by Prof Karl Friston & Prof Yike Guo @ Imperial College London (Aug 30 - Sep2, 2015), BIH'15 crosses the disciplines of neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, signal processing, and neuroimaging. It also draws special attention to informatics for brain science, human behaviour and health. International Conference on Brain Informatics and Health (BIH'15) Venue: Imperial College London, London, UK, Time: Aug 30-Sep 2, 2015 www.braininformatics.london<http://www.braininformatics.london> Abstract Submission Deadline: June 16, 2015 ***************** Conference Theme: Brain informatics has emerged as a distinct field of research. It crosses the disciplines of neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, signal processing, and neuroimaging technologies. The data driven nature of brain research made brain informatics an important field of data science. Following the success of past conferences in this series, BIH'15 will take place at Imperial College London, in UK. For the first time, BIH gathers the researchers from major international brain research projects to form a forum for reviewing the progress of brain informatics research and its applications to human health and building up international collaboration. The conference will also organise an exhibition from industrial and research community. BIH'15 draws special attention to informatics for brain science, human behaviour and health. BIH'15 will address informatics approaches to both the brain and behaviour research with a strong emphasis on emerging trends of big data analysis and management technology for brain research, behaviour learning, and real-world applications of brain science in human health and wellbeing. The distinguished speakers include: Keynote Speakers Allan Jones, CEO, Allen Institute for Brain Science, USA; Henry Markram, Director, Blue Brain Project; Coordinator, Human Brain Project, EPFL, Switzerland; David Van Essen, PI, Human Connectome Project, Washington University School of Medicine, USA; Feature Speakers Giorgio Ascoli, (Founding Director, Center for Neural Informatics, George Mason University, USA); Henry Kennedy, (Director of Research, Stem-cell and Brain Research Institute, France); Barbara Sahakian, (University of Cambridge, UK); Nelson Spruston, (Scientific Program Director, Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), USA); Paul Verschure, (Director, the Lab of SPECS at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Spain); BIH'15 welcomes paper submissions (full paper and abstract submissions). Both research and application papers are solicited. All submitted papers will be reviewed on the basis of technical quality, relevance, significance and clarity. Accepted full papers will be included in the proceedings by Springer LNCS/LNAI. ================================= ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS & PUBLICATIONS: Submission Deadline: June 16, 2015 Each abstract is limited to 500 words. Experimental research is particularly welcome. Accepted abstract submissions will be included in the conference program, and will be published as a single, collective proceedings volume. Title: Include in the title of the abstract all words critical for a subject index. Write your title in sentence case (first letter is capitalized; remaining letters are lower case). Do not bold or italicize your full title. Author: List all authors who contributed to the work discussed in the abstract. The presenting author must be listed in the first author slot of the list. Be prepared to submit contact information as well as conflict of interest information for each author listed. Abstract: Enter the body of the abstract and attach any applicable graphic files or tables here. Do not re-enter the title, author, support, or other information that is collected in other steps of the submission form. Presentation Preference: Authors may select from three presentation formats when submitting an abstract: "poster only,", "talk preferred" or "no preference." The "talk preferred" selection indicates that you would like to give a talk, but will accept a poster format if necessary. Marking "poster only" indicates that you would not like to be considered for an oral-presentation session. Selecting "no preference" indicates the author's willingness to be placed in the best format for the program. Each abstract requires one sponsoring attendee (i.e. someone who registered and is attending the conference). A single attendee can not sponsor more than two abstracts or papers. Oral presentations will be selected from both full length papers and abstracts. *** Contact Information *** BrainInformatics2015(a)gmail.com<mailto:BrainInformatics2015@gmail.com>

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PhD grant on Computational Methods for Brain Connectivity Analysis
by Diego Sona 22 May '15

22 May '15

The Department of Information Engineering and Computer Science (DISI) at the University of Trento and its research partners Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), will invite applications for an open PhD position covered by scholarship in the area of “Computational Methods for Brain Connectivity Analysis”. The deadline for applications is May 27, 2015, before 14:00, CET. The PhD aims at carrying out research activity on machine learning methodologies for brain connectivity data analysis. The main goal is to design and to deploy machine learning algorithms for open challenges such as the detection of the main structural and functional pathways of the brain, the characterisation of the differences with respect to altered brain connections, the inter-individuals analysis of brain connectivity structures. The PhD grant is jointly supported by Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT). The research activity will take place at the Neuroinformatics Laboratory (NILab) in Trento and the Pattern Analysis and Computer Vision department (PAVIS) in Genova. NILab is an interdisciplinary laboratory raised as joint initiative between the Centre for Information Technology of FBK and the Centre for Mind/Brain Sciences of University of Trento (CIMeC). PAVIS is a computer vision department recently created in IIT. The University of Trento ranks 1st among the Italian Universities in the rankings of Times Higher Education and CIMeC ranks 1st for quality of research in the ranking of the Italian National for the Evaluation of Universities and Research (ANVUR). CIMeC has 6 ERC starting grants and 1 advanced grant. Trento ranks 1st in the annual survey on quality of life in Italian cities conducted by daily Il Sole 24 Ore. Details on the PhD School and a link to the online application are provided below. If you are interested, you may contact us in advance at the following address: info.nilab(a)fbk.eu <mailto:info.nilab@fbk.eu> & pavis(a)iit.it <mailto:info.nilab@fbk.eu> Links - PhD School: http://ict.unitn.it <http://ict.unitn.it/> - FBK: http://www.fbk.eu <http://www.fbk.eu/> - CIMeC: http://www.cimec.unitn.it <http://www.cimec.unitn.it/> - NILab: http://nilab.fbk.eu <http://nilab.fbk.eu/> - PAVIS: http://iit.it/pavis <http://iit.it/pavis> Diego Sona --------------------------------------------------------- Pattern Analysis & Computer Vision (PAVIS) Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy Phone: +39 010 71781 819 E-mail: diego.sona(a)iit.it www.iit.it/pavis.html ---------------------------------------------------------

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computational neuroscience PhD projects
by Andre Van Schaik 21 May '15

21 May '15

I am looking for highly qualified PhD students for two computational neuroscience projects in the MARCS Institute at the University of Western Sydney, Australia to start in early 2016. The first project is on Bayesian Inference in Spiking Neural Networks in which we aim to build a computer model of how Bayesian Inference can be implemented in a network of spiking neurons. The second project aims to map a functional behaviour (such as pattern learning and inference) onto a model of cortex, and implement this on our FPGA based simulator, which is able to simulate many million of neurons in real-time. More details on the projects, and a host of other available projects can be found at: http://www.uws.edu.au/bioelectronics_neuroscience/bens/postgraduate/phd_opp…. The student would need to be self funded, or successfully obtain funding through one of two funding opportunities we currently have available: The University of Western Sydney offers scholarships and fee waivers to top local and international applicants. This scheme opens on June 10 and closes on June 26, 2015. (There will be a second round in October) http://www.uws.edu.au/graduate_research_school/grs/scholarships. The Australian government offers Endeavour Scholarships. This scheme is now open and closes on June 30, 2015. https://internationaleducation.gov.au/Endeavour%20program/Scholarships-and-…. These scholarships are competitive. Applicants should have at least an Honours 1 undergraduate degree, or equivalent, excellent English language skills. Having published in peer reviewed journals and conferences, and/or being about to finish, or having finished a Masters degree with a more than 50% research component will be a significant plus for these applications. If you are interested, please contact me at a.vanschaik(a)uws.edu.au. Andre van Schaik

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Postdoc position in Sleep and Cognition lab (EEG/ERP)
by Sara C. Mednick 20 May '15

20 May '15

We are seeking a postdoc researcher in Sara Mednick’s Sleep and Cognition (SaC) Lab in the Department of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside. This researcher will be investigating mechanisms of memory formation during waking and sleep. Successful candidates may have any of the following skills: experience in memory or sleep research (human or animal), EEG/ERP methodologies, programming skills, applying signal processing and non-linear analysis techniques to EEG recordings. Position is available in the fall of 2015. Researchers must possess a doctoral degree. The University of California offers excellent benefits. Salary is based on research experience. The initial appointment is for 1 year with a possibility of extension. Please send your CV, statement of research interests and the names of three references or make inquires to Sara C. Mednick smednick(a)ucr.edu. -- Assistant Professor University of California, Riverside Department of Psychology Sleep and Cognition (SaC) Lab www.saramednick.com www.sleepandcognitionlab.org TEDx Talk <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MklZJprP5F0> Amandla awethu!

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PhD Positions on Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics
by Giulio Sandini 20 May '15

20 May '15

9 PhD Positions (if you are truly interested in contributing to an interdisciplinary environment) Within the doctoral School on Bioengineering and Robotics the curriculum "Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies" offers interdisciplinary training at the interface between robotics and neuroscience. The general objective of the program is to form scientists and research technologists capable of dealing with multidisciplinary projects involving aspects of engineering, technology and life-sciences. The PhD themes offered this year by the "Robotics, Brain and Cognitive Sciences" (RBCS) department of IIT (www.iit.it/rbcs<http://www.iit.it/rbcs>) are focusing on the SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF ACTION AND INTERACTION by addressing the study of the embodied and cognitive interaction between humans and machines and its technological and social outcomes. In RBCS we are merging top-level neuroscience research and top-level robotics research by sharing fundamental scientific objectives arising from the study of: * goal-directed action * speech recognition and language * the foundations of physical and social interaction * the exploitation of sensory and motor rehabilitation. RBCS is where the iCub humanoid robot is used to investigate the language of embodied, human-human and human-robot communication and it is also the place where studies of how visual, haptic and tactile integration develops in normal as well as sensory-impaired children. RBCS is where technologies for robotic rehabilitation devices are developed and tested in joint labs established in clinical environments such as the "Giannina Galsini" pediatric hospital, and the "Istituto Chiossone" for blind and low vision children in Genova, and the National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) in Volterra. The ideal candidates are students with a higher level university degree willing to invest extra time and effort in blending into a multidisciplinary team composed of neuroscientists, engineers, psychologists, physicists working together to investigate brain functions and realize intelligent machines, rehabilitation protocols and advanced prosthesis. Some of the themes proposed offer the students the possibility of participating in international collaborations through EU supported exchange of researchers within dedicated Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions. Application deadline: 10 June 2015, 12pm Italian time General Scientific Information: giulio.sandini(a)iit.it<mailto:giulio.sandini@iit.it> Administrative Information: Ilaria.dallorto(a)iit.it<mailto:Ilaria.dallorto@iit.it> See below the information about individual themes. HOW TO APPLY Applications must be submitted online, instructions for applicants are available here: http://phd.dibris.unige.it/biorob/index.php/how-to-apply (Cognitive Sciences, Interactive and Rehabilitation Technologies) The full description of the individual themes is available here: http://www.iit.it/images/phd-xxxi/RES.THEMES.COGNIROB.INTER.pdf) LIST OF THEMES PROPOSED BY IIT-RBCS (of the 13 themes only 9 will be assigned to the 9 best applicants) 1. ASSESSMENT OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES TO ENHANCE RESIDUAL SENSORY ABILITIES (Contacts: luca.brayda(a)iit.it<mailto:luca.brayda@iit.it> , fabrizio.leo(a)iit.it<mailto:fabrizio.leo@iit.it> ) 2. SIMULTANEOUS MULTIMODAL FORCE AND MOTION ESTIMATION (Contacts: francesco.nori(a)iit.it<mailto:francesco.nori@iit.it> ) 3. FAST AND ROBUST WHOLE-BODY MOTION WITH VARIABLE STIFFNESS ACTUATORS (Contacts: francesco.nori(a)iit.i<mailto:francesco.nori@iit.i> t, luca.fiorio(a)iit.it<mailto:luca.fiorio@iit.it> ) 4. SECOND-PERSON MOTOR COGNITION: HANDS IN INTERACTION (Contacts: cristina.becchio(a)unito.it<mailto:cristina.becchio@unito.it> ) 5. NEURAL AND MOTOR BASES OF SOCIAL INTERACTION (Contacts: thierry.pozzo@iit<mailto:thierry.pozzo@iit> ; alberto.inuggi(a)ii.it<mailto:alberto.inuggi@ii.it> ; alessandro.dausilio(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.dausilio@iit.it> ) 6. MULTISENSORY INTEGRATION AND CROSS-MODAL COMMUNICATION (Contacts: monica.gori(a)iit.it<mailto:monica.gori@iit.it> ) 7. AUGMENTED SENSORIMOTOR INTERACTION Contacts: alessandro.dausilio(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.dausilio@iit.it> ; leonardo.badino(a)iit.it<mailto:leonardo.badino@iit.it> ; luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> ) 8. MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING IN HUMAN-ROBOT INTERACTION (Contact: alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandra.sciutti@iit.it> ) 9. SPEAKING IN CONCERT (Contacts: leonardo.badino(a)iit.it<mailto:leonardo.badino@iit.it> , alessandro.dausilio(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.dausilio@iit.it> , luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> ) 10. THE CONTROL AND REPRESENTATION OF ARTICULATED OBJECTS: INSIGHTS FROM ROBOTS (Contacts: gabriel.baud-bovy(a)iit.it<mailto:gabriel.baud-bovy@iit.it> , francesco.nori(a)iit.it<mailto:francesco.nori@iit.it> ) 11. CONTROL AND REPRESENTATION OF ARTICULATED OBJECTS: HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN SIGHTED AND BLIND ADULTS AND CHILDREN (Contacts: gabriel.baud-bovy(a)iit.it<mailto:gabriel.baud-bovy@iit.it> , monica.gori(a)iit.it<mailto:monica.gori@iit.it> ) 12. MODELING OF THE MECHANISMS UNDERLYING PROPRIOCEPTION FOR REHABILITATION (Contacts: valentina.squeri(a)iit.it<mailto:valentina.squeri@iit.it> , jacopo.zenzeri(a)iit.it<mailto:jacopo.zenzeri@iit.it> ) 13. DEVELOPMENT OF A RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORTING DATA SCIENCE IN AN INTERDISCIPLINARY ENVIRONMENT (Contacts: marco.jacono(a)iit.it<mailto:marco.jacono@iit.it> , elisa.molinari(a)iit.it<mailto:elisa.molinari@iit.it> , alessandro.bruchi(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.bruchi@iit.it> ) -- Prof. Giulio Sandini Director Robotics, Brain and Cognitive Sciences Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego, 30 - 16163 Genova Italy http://www.iit.it/rbcs

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PhD position, University of Genoa, Italy – "Multidimensional peripersonal space sensing"
by Silvio P. Sabatini 20 May '15

20 May '15

Applications are invited for one full-time PhD studentship (with scholarship) for a period of 3 years, at the PSPC-lab of the Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Italy. * RESEARCH THEME "Integration of motion-in-depth multi-sensory information flows in the peripersonal space". Description: While there is a growing evidence that the space immediately around the body (i.e., the peripersonal space) is coded in a distributed way across several coexisting reference frames, our knowledge of how different representations are aligned, adapt, and interact is still in its infancy. Where, when, and how does the brain implement the internal models underlying the sensorimotor transformations that guide both our actions and perceptions? Is the encoding of sensory information static, or does it change dynamically as the action unfolds? Looking for answers to these questions should help understanding how an agent should use sensing and proprioception-like signals dynamically to build sensorimotor representations of peripersonal space and self-calibrate. Within the research framework developed in the PSPC lab at DIBRIS, the goal of the project is to investigate how different cross-modal information can enable arm and hand-related actions in the peripersonal space. Specifically, the focus will be on the development of a neuromorphic cognitive system for detecting/encoding motion-in-depth multimodal information flows relative to body parts. The underlying models, besides advancing experimental predictions about neuronal activity, are expected to drive learning of meaningful interactions with the environment thus achieving fluid multi-dimensional motor control in the presence of multiple sensory channels, and with minimal a priori knowledge. Requirements: background in bioengineering, computer science, physics or related disciplines, strong interest in computational and theoretical neuroscience. The project will provide the opportunity to work on neural modeling, visual psychophysics, robotics, or a combination of them. Experimental, modeling, and theoretical approaches might be pursued with a different accent according to personal attitude. Ongoing cooperation, at international level, with research groups of different disciplines, will ensure a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating environment. The position will start on Nov 1st 2015. * HOW TO APPLY Candidates must have: - a University degree at Master level (or expect to obtain it by 31 October 2015) in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics or related disciplines - strong interest in computational neuroscience, and an open mind for interdisciplinary research. Online application is available till June 10, 2015 at 12.00 noon (Italian time). Full details on the call and the application procedure will soon be available at: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXI/ENG/ and http://phd.dibris.unige.it/biorob/index.php/how-to-apply Applicants are strongly requested to contact me (silvio.sabatini(a)unige.it) providing CV and qualifications, and a description of the research interests. * WHERE DIBRIS is a unique inter-school department of the University of Genoa, bridging together researchers from the former Science and Engineering Faculties. It offers an excellent multidisciplinary, interactive and collaborative research environment combining expertise in computer vision, computational neuroscience, neuromorphic computing, robotics and mechatronics. PSPC-Lab (www.pspc.unige.it) has a long-standing expertise in visual coding and multidimensional signal representation, robot perception and computer vision. In the last five years, the lab’s research activity focused on the analysis of the structural mechanisms of visuo-spatial cognition, responsible for orienting and interacting in the 3D space. Regards, -- --------------------------------------------------------------------- Silvio P. SABATINI, PhD [PSPC Research Group] Professor of Bioengineering DIBRIS - University of Genova | e_mail:silvio.sabatini@unige.it Via Opera Pia, 11A | phone: +39 010 3532092/3532794 I-16145 Genova (ITALY) | fax: +39 010 3532289/3536533 URL:http://pspc.unige.it --------------------------------------------------------------------- "Imagination is more important than knowledge..." [Albert Einstein]

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