June 2016 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

PhD positions at the CTNSC-UniFe , Ferrara
by Emma Maggiolini 30 Jun '16

30 Jun '16

The Center for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication (CTNSC) at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) is looking for up to 4 highly motivated, full-time PhD students to work in the core research areas of the Center. The PhD student will work in Ferrara, in an international and multidisciplinary team including biomedical engineers, biologists, computer scientists, psychologists and medical doctors. The PhD positions will cover the following core areas of CTNSC. DEADLINE: 5TH AUGUST 2016 CTNSC Info [ITA/ENG]: https://www.iit.it/centers/ctnsc-unife PhD page [ITA/ENG]: http://www.unife.it/studenti/dottorato/concorsi/selection How to participate to the selection [ITA/ENG]:http://www.unife.it/studenti/dottorato/modulistica/concorsi/32-ciclo/neurosciences.pdf * Functional investigation of innovative neural interfaces Evidences show that using electrophysiological techniques is possible to extract information about brain processes and then translate these signals into commands that could be used to recover the lost capabilities. The purpose of the project is to investigate the in-vivo performance of novel devices - both in-house developed or obtained from collaborating laboratories - with a focus on i) enhanced capability to record neural signals; ii) large charge transfer capability to enhance the stimulation performance and iii) small size to minimize inflammatory reaction and gliosis. The candidate will be involved in the development of a stable and functional interface between living neural tissue and probes in rat model. Techniques: in-vivo single-unit recording and epicortical recording , histological techniques and image analysis, microscopy techniques and data analysis. Requirements: The candidate should have a background in one or more of the following fields: biology, medicine, pharmacology or related disciplines. Programming experience is appreciated but not mandatory. Familiarity with electrophysiological and/or microscopy techniques is of advantage. Contacts: Dr. Emma Maggiolini: emma.maggiolini(a)iit.it<mailto:emma.maggiolini@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Animal neurophysiology investigation of sensorimotor functions The discovery of mirror and canonical neurons in monkey premotor and parietal cortex motivated a number of studies on how sensorimotor transformations in the brain may support understanding of action performed by conspecifics. This still constitute a fundamental area of research which is necessary to unravel the basic mechanisms of sensorimotor sharing during social interaction. The candidate working in this core area will investigate, in animal models, the neuronal activity of different (motor and somatosensory) cortical regions, pointing out their topographic organization as well as their role during observation, planning and execution of particular motor acts. Techniques: multidisciplinary approach involving behavioral testing, electrophysiological techniques (intracortical microstimulation, single-unit recording, field potentials recording, electromyography) and histological evaluations. Requirements: The candidate must have a background in the biological fields (biology, medicine, pharmacy and similar). At the end of the three-year period, the Ph.D. student will obtain deep knowledge and experience on in vivo neuroscience. Contacts: Dr. Riccardo Viaro: riccardo.viaro(a)iit.it<mailto:riccardo.viaro@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Brain- and multimodal signal- based speech recognition Our approach to speech recognition is an "analysis by synthesis" approach which assumes that in order to recognize speech we need to understand the causal process (i.e., the speech production process) that stems from brain activity and, through coordinated movements of the vocal tract articulators, produces speech sounds. Such approach is largely motivated by work on speech perception carried out at CTNSC and serves two goals. The first goal is to build automatic speech recognition systems that, as humans do, work in very challenging scenarios (e.g., in the so called "cocktail party" scenario) and are able to learn how to recognize speech without relying on huge amount of carefully annotated speech data (as opposed to "data hungry" current recognition systems). The second goal is to recognize speech from one or more modalities that are within the speech production process, e.g., from brain signal or from visual and kinematic signals of the face and the vocal tract. Techniques: Machine learning, deep neural network, multimodal signal processing. Requirements: The successful candidate will have a degree in computer science bioengineering, physics or related disciplines. A background in machine learning and in speech and language processing. Contacts: Dr. Leonardo Badino: leonardo.badino(a)iit.it<mailto:leonardo.badino@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Human Neurophysiology investigation of speech and communication abilities by means of micro-electrocorticography Historically, the study of speech processing has emphasized a strong link between auditory perceptual input and motor production output. The main aim of this area is to describe the neural systems involved in this sensorimotor representation linking speech perception and production. To this purpose, we use high-density surface microelectrodes for electrocorticography (micro-ECoG) to record electrical signals directly from the cortical surface in patients during awake surgery for low-grade glioma resection. Micro-ECoG is an important electrophysiological signal recording technique that combines high temporal resolution with good spatial localization. Techniques: Micro-ECoG, direct brain electrical stimulation, functional electrical mapping. Requirements: Applicants are expected to have a degree in biomedical engineering or basic/applied/health sciences. Requirements include a knowledge of neural signal processing and/or neuroimaging skills. Contact: Dr. Luciano Simone: luciano.simone(a)unife.it<mailto:luciano.simone@unife.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Human Neurophysiology investigation of speech and sensorimotor communication abilities by means of non-invasive techniques The neural mechanisms underlying speech and sensorimotor communication abilities, during real-life social encounters are mostly unknown. In the classic motor control frame of reference, individuals can be conceived as proactively building models of their action and of their sensory consequence. During interaction, these sensorimotor models can be extended to the social space whereby the control signal becomes the negotiated behavior of other people. The candidate will help in mapping the brain activities responsible for the emergence of such a shared behavior, in the domain of speech (phonological level) or action (upper arm movements). These experiments will inform the next generation of biologically inspired automatic communication recognition systems, essential to augment natural human-human coordination and promote the future of efficient human-robot interaction. Techniques: Electroencephalography (EEG), Electromyography (EMG), body motion kinematics (MoCap), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), transcranial Direct (tDCs) and Alternate (tACs) current stimulation. Requirements: The successful candidate will have a background in neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science or engineering. Programming skills as well as a strong interest in cognitive neuroscience are fundamental. Electroencephalographic and kinematic data analyses skills are a plus. Contact: Dr. Alessandro D'Ausilio: alessandro.dausilio(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.dausilio@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> [Description: cid:image001.jpg@01CC9EC9.BA36CB30] Emma Maggiolini, PhD IIT@unife, Center for Translational Neurophysiology Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy Tel. +39 0532 455983 SKYPE ID: lilmay75 e-mail: emma.maggiolini(a)iit.it<mailto:emma.maggiolini@iit.it> www.iit.it<http://www.iit.it/>

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CNS2016 tutorial on detailed neuronal modelling
by Ben TN 30 Jun '16

30 Jun '16

On Saturday July 2 there is an exciting tutorial at the yearly CNS meeting titled: “Detailed modeling of structure and function at the cellular level”. This tutorial will be given by Dr. Ben Torben-Nielsen and Dr. Yann Le Franc. If you are at the CNS meeting, this is your chance to get expert insights into the wondrous world of dendrites and axons, their shape and dynamics emerging on them. The tutorial consists of two parts. In the morning session, Dr. Torben-Nielsen will cover the study of neuronal morphologies; why this is important and how we can study them through analysis and synthesis. In the afternoon session, Dr. Yann Le Franc will discuss the dynamics of ionic conductances. This session focusses on the basics of compartmental modelling and the existing neuroinformatics tools used to advance your workflow in dealing with design, implementation and analysis of detailed models. Both sessions will contain a hands on component. Please bring a laptop with Python/Scipy/Numpy/Matplotlib installed on it. For windows and mac users, we recommended Anaconda (https://www.continuum.io/why-anaconda) as it is an easy way to install all required Python packages. In the afternoon session, we will also use the NEURON simulator (https://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/) Please install this package as well with the Python extensions. We can provide guidelines on the installation of these packages during the breaks. Also, if you have structural data of neurons and do not know how to start to analyse them, please bring them along and we can help you out! Kind regards, Ben Dr. Ben Torben-Nielsen Senior Lecturer (Assistant professor) Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire, UK

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CITEC Summer School 2016 on Adaptive Systems - CALL FOR PARTICIPATION
by elisabetta chicca 30 Jun '16

30 Jun '16

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR PARTICIPATION *CITEC Summer School 2016 on Adaptive Systems* CITEC, Bielefeld University, Germany, 27th-30th of September 2016 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear young researchers, The CITEC Summer School 2016 is dedicated to the topic of Adaptive Systems: https://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool Adaptivity is the key for coping with tasks or environments whose properties cannot be completely known beforehand - a frequent characteristic of real world situations challenging artificial agents, real robots or biological organisms alike. We offer you an interdisciplary mesh of courses held by an interdisciplinary team of researchers from the Excellence Center Cognitive Interaction Technology to acquaint you with current ideas and research about adaptivity, its foundations, analysis and its synthesis in artificial systems. This year's topic is organized into four major thematic areas: (A) Adaptive Motion (B) Multimodal Learning and Social Interaction (C) Deep Approaches to Relevance Learning (D) Embodiment and Neuromorpic Learning Systems Most of the courses provide the opportunity for hands-on experience, involving experiments or data sets captured in CITEC research labs. You are asked to choose one out of this four. They are complemented by talks of leading invited and local experts. Invited speakers include: - *Ralph Etienne-Cummings**, *Johns Hopkins University, USA - *Kerstin Fischer**, *University of Southern Denmark - *Christian Igel*, University of Copenhagen, Denmark - *Andrew B. Schwartz*, University of Pittsburgh, USA Beyond the courses and the talks of the speakers, attendance will provide you with ample opportunities for discussions, exchange of ideas with your peers and the participating researchers, and for learning more about CITEC. The Summer School continues a series of highly successful CITEC Summer Schools started in 2010 and covering the topics of *The Structure of Cognitive Motion: From Analysis to Synthesis* (2010), *Mechanisms of Attention - From Experimental Studies to Technical Systems* (2011), *Verbal and Non-verbal Interaction: From Experiments to Implementation (*2012), and *Continuous Learning in Living and Artificial Systems* (2013) so far. To apply visit https://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool/application and indicate your area of choice from the above area list (A)-(D). Applications will be open at least until July 29th. For more information, visit http://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool Contact us for questions: summerschool(a)cit-ec.uni-bielefeld.de

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POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY
by Wilson Truccolo 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

Applications for an NIH-funded post-doctoral position are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic models of multiscale neural dynamics in human epilepsy. Data consist of simultaneous intracortical microelectrode array recordings of ensembles of single neurons and local field potentials, as well as ECoGs, during seizure and non-seizure states in individuals with pharmacologically resistant epilepsy. The project involves a collaboration between the labs of Dr. Truccolo and Dr. Sydney Cash (Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience, modeling of stochastic neural dynamics and experiments involving closed-loop electrical stimulation. Related recent publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/ <http://dl.dropbox.com/u/983891/Truccolo_home.htm>). Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

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Postdoctoral position in graph signal processing for monitoring spatio-temporal dynamics of brain activity
by Nicolas Farrugia 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

Postdoctoral position in graph signal processing for monitoring spatio-temporal dynamics of brain activity Telecom Bretagne, Brest, France P.I. : Dr. Vincent Gripon Context The present proposal is funded by the Neural Communication project, which is part of the Labex CominLabs. This project started in November 2015 for a duration of two years as a continuation of the Neural Coding project, also founded by the Labex CominLabs from November 2012 to October 2015. The main goal of the project is to propose models for communications between cortical areas in the brain and to develop novel methodologies for identifying spatio-temporal patterns in brain activity. The project takes advantage of the expertise of two internationnaly renowned teams. The first one is led by Fabrice Wendling, director of research at LTSI in Rennes, and aims at proposing innovative methods for extracting connectivity graphs from EEG signals. The second one (host team) is led by Claude Berrou, professor at Télécom bretagne, and aims at proposing novel models for information processing in neural networks. The host team is also active in the new field of graph signal processing. The host team is composed of three permanent researchers as well as two postdocs and six PhD students. The proposed postdoctoral position is meant to take place in Télécom Bretagne, in Brest. The candidate is expected to work in collaboration with people involved in the ERC project Neucod led by Claude Berrou. Proposal It is now well-known that brain activity is structurally organised into functionally connected networks. Using functional MRI on subjects at rest, resting state networks can be defined as sets of spatially distinct brain areas with temporally correlated activity. While having been extensively studied over long time periods (e.g. 6 minutes), such networks are now investigated using dynamic analysis with a temporal resolution of a few dozens of seconds. Other works are interested in applying similar methodologies to monitoring the dynamics when performing cognitive tasks, as it has been shown that task-related functional networks are spatially similar to resting-state networks. Recently, a novel framework has been developed that aim at exploiting graphical structures of the underlying topology the signals are projected onto, called graph signal processing. As a result, it is possible to define ad hoc harmonic operators including convolutions and wavelets. A major advantage of this approach is the ability to detect similar patterns in distinct regions of the network, despite the inhomogeneity of the network topology. We are interested in applying graph signal processing to brain imaging to study special temporal dynamics, both in the resting state and task-related networks using EEG and fMRI. Details The head of the project is Vincent Gripon, permanent researcher with Télécom Bretagne. Please send your curriculum vitae, contacts for two references, as well as a cover letter to vincent.gripon(a)telecom-bretagne.eu. Expected disposable salary is about 30k{\euro} per year, depending on experience. The position starts in September 2016 (or sooner) and finishes in November 2017. The postdoc position is accompanied with overheads for travel expenses covering the participation to international conferences. The candidate must have defended a Ph.D. related to neuroscience, neuroimaging and familiar with signal processing. Programming skills are essential to this position. The deadline for applying to the position is July 17th.

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EEG and Brain Stimulation Postdoctoral Position in Frohlich Lab at UNC-Chapel Hill
by Sankar Alagapan 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

We are seeking to fill one postdoctoral position in the Frohlich Lab with a candidate who has a proven track record of EEG data analysis. *About this position*: We are collecting high-density EEG from multiple clinical trials in which we evaluate the effect of non-invasive brain stimulation on brain network dynamics and behavior. We are looking for a passionate scientist who is interested in taking charge of the data analysis (EEG, cognitive tasks, clinical scales) to validate network targets for brain stimulation in psychiatry and more broadly the network-level dysfunction of psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. The applicant will be embedded in a vibrant research group of around 20 scientists and will receive (as needed and desired) training in transcranial current stimulation, network neuroscience, and clinical research. The position will include working closely with the study coordinators who run the clinical trials. *About the Frohlich Lab*: We seek to revolutionize the fields of psychiatry and neurology by studying brain network dynamics and applying our discoveries to the rational design of novel brain stimulation treatments. Our research integrates neurobiology, engineering, and medicine to identify, engage, and validate network targets for brain stimulation. We (1) perform computer modeling, (2) combine electrophysiology, imaging, brain stimulation, and behavioral assays in animal models, (3) record and modulate human brain activity, and (4) study new treatments in randomized controlled clinical trials. This position is aligned with items (3) and (4) of our mission. *About UNC at Chapel Hill*: We are a vibrant and nationally top-rated research institution with a strong track record in (translational) neuroscience. UNC has been repeatedly ranked as one of the best places to do a postdoc. Quality of life is very high, cost of living is low. *About the successful candidate*: You have a PhD in neuroscience (or a related discipline) and a track record of first class science demonstrated by first author peer-reviewed scientific articles. Strong background and experience with human EEG data analysis and Matlab is required. Experience in source localization and functional connectivity analysis using EEG will be advantageous. Experience with clinical trials or working with patient populations is a plus. Please send your CV and a brief statement of research interest toflavio_frohlich(a)med.unc.edu. Also, please have two letters of recommendation directly submitted to the same email address. Note: Please only submit an application if your background matches the required expertise for this position. We are looking forward to meeting passionate and hard-working applicants who are ready for this cutting-edge project and for joining the Frohlich Lab family. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Start date is flexible but the earlier the better. UNC is an equal opportunity employer.

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Call for Participation (ICDL-EPIROB 2016): WS on Development of Body Representations
by Matej Hoffmann 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

*Call for papers: Interdisciplinary workshop on the development of body knowledge in humans and machines* 19^th September 2016, Cergy-Pontoise / Paris http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it/> held in the framework of ICDL-EPIROB 2016 conference: http://www.etis.ensea.fr/neurocyber/ICDL-EPIROB2016/home.php Following the previous workshops on the development of body representations in humans and robots at ICDL-EPIROB, we have the pleasure to announce a forthcoming workshop in Cergy-Pontoise / Paris on the 19^th September 2016. The aim of this workshop is to spark collaboration between roboticists and developmental psychologists in order to address the origins of the sensorimotor maps that underlie own body representations in both infants and robots. The development of infants’ body knowledge is a primary object of discovery starting before birth. This construction ultimately enables the infant to efficiently interact with the environment. The specific goal of the organizers is to explore the possibility of developing robotic models inspired by the development of human infant body representations. Presentations will consider body knowledge acquisition from sensorimotor, neural and computational perspectives. After the presentations, the discussion will aim at establishing an integrative framework for understanding a) the development of body knowledge in infants, b) the mechanisms that underlie body knowledge acquisition and c) how robots can be used to replicate developmental patterns and progressions that have been found in human infants. On the one hand such robots can become new modeling tools for empirical sciences – expanding the domain of computational modeling by anchoring it to the physical environment and a physical body. On the other hand, robot controllers endowed with multimodal whole-body awareness typical of humans should increase robots’ autonomy. ___________________________________________________________________________ We invite contributions concerning the development of body knowledge in humans and/or machines. Please submit a one-page abstract describing your poster by *the 5th of August 2016* to the following address: *icdlbodyworkshop(a)gmail.com* Presenters of a poster will be expected to be present on the 19th of September 2016 for a teasers-session and for the poster session. During the teasers-session each presenter will introduce their poster in a 2-minute oral presentation (with 2-3 pdf slides). During the poster session they will then have the opportunity to explain their poster and to hand out any leaflets or other information materials they have available for viewers of their poster. *___________________________________________________________________________* *Important dates * Abstract submission: August 5, 2016. Notification of acceptance: August 15, 2016. Submission of 2-3 slides (pdf): September 15, 2016. Workshop day: September 19, 2016. ___________________________________________________________________________ *Speakers* * Prof. Jeffrey Lockman, PhD. Department of Psychology, Tulane University, USA. * Kevin O’Regan, PhD. Research scientist, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France. * Matej Hoffmann, PhD. Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy. * Prof. Minoru Asada, PhD. Research director, Division of Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics, Institute for Academic Initiatives, Osaka University, Japan. * Andrew Bremner, PhD. Reader in psychology and head of department, Goldsmiths University, London, UK. * Gianluca Baldassare, PhD. Researcher, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy.** *____________________________________________ * ** *Venue* Cergy-Pontoise University: http://www.etis.ensea.fr/neurocyber/ICDL-EPIROB2016/home.php ___________________________________________________________________________ *Website* Please check the website <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/>http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/for updated information about the workshop! ___________________________________________________________________________ *Organizers* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France Matej Hoffmann <https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home>, PhD Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy Lorenzo Jamone <http://lorejam.blogspot.pt/>, PhD Associate researcher, VisLab, Instituto de Sistemas e Robotica, Lisbon, Portugal ___________________________________________________________________________ *Contact information* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France esomogyi(a)gmail.com <mailto:esomogyi@gmail.com> -- Matej Hoffmann, PhD Postdoctoral Researcher iCub Facility Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego, 30 16163 Genoa, Italy https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home

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Computational Modeling of Autism: Roche Internship, Basel Switzerland
by Christopher Chatham 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

Please see below for information about a 9 month internship in Basel, Switzerland, in statistical and computational modeling of ASD. The internship should start before October 2016. Please forward to any PhD students who may be interested in this opportunity. About the position: This position will be based in the Biomarkers and Clinical Imaging Group of the Neuroscience Translational Medicine Section of Roche in Basel, Switzerland. The Biomarkers and Clinical Imaging Group uses cutting edge genetic, molecular, neurophysiological, imaging (PET and MRI), electrophysiology and cognitive methodologies to understand diseases and support drug development efforts in the neuroscience field. The Translational Medicine group oversees the discovery, research and development of novel treatments for diseases in neurological, psychiatric and neurodevelopmental fields. The RiSE program (Roche Internships for Scientific Exchange) offers the most talented postgraduate students the opportunity to enhance their competencies and to gain valuable work experience with us. During the internship your tasks will include: - Statistical analyses of behavioral data from ASD patients - Mathematical modelling of normative behavioral data - Participating in an international workgroup to develop estimates of clinically meaningful change on a clinical symptom rating scale - Attending talks sponsored by groups across the company and Biomarker group meetings - Building your professional network across the company Apply here: http://www.roche.com/careers/jobs/jobsearch/job.htm?id=E-3233464408&locale=…

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Post Graduate School "Cognitive Computing in Socio-Technical Systems" of Ulm University and University of Applied Sciences Ulm
by Friedhelm Schwenker 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

Post Graduate School "Cognitive Computing in Socio-Technical Systems" of Ulm University and University of Applied Sciences Ulm In 2016 Ulm University and the University of Applied Sciences Ulm award *12 scholarships to highly-qualified scientific talents* for preparing the doctoral degree in accordance with the Landesgraduiertenförderungsgesetz (LGFG). Scholarships will be granted for 12 doctoral projects for initially one year, starting – if possible – on 1st October 2016. There will be the option of a two-year extension (i.e. standard funding term is 3 years). The 12 doctoral projects aim at tightly linking the fundamental pillars of cognitive computing, i.e., (i) perception, (ii) planning & reasoning, (iii) learning, and (iv) interaction. Applications include service robotics, Industry 4.0, logistics, and adaptive process management systems. A scholarship can be granted provided that the following conditions are met: * an outstanding qualification, * acceptance as a doctoral candidate in the respective department of Ulm University, and * scientific support by a professor of Ulm University / University of Applied Sciences Ulm. Please submit your application *no later than 1st August 2016*. You may send it, together with the required attachments (e.g., certificates), as PDF file to Prof. Manfred Reichert (email: manfred.reichert(at)uni-ulm.de). Please use the application template provided on our website (see below). As subject of the email use "Application KPK Cognitive Systems". Alternatively, you may send your application to the following postal address: Prof. Dr. Manfred Reichert Universität Ulm, Institut für Datenbanken und Informationssysteme D-89069 Ulm, Germany On your cover letter please write code number 68, KPK "Cognitive Computing" as well as the supervisors of the projects you are interested in. You may find additional Information and the application template on the following website: * http://www.uni-ulm.de/KPK_Cognitive_Computing * http://www.hs-ulm.de/KPK_Cognitive_Computing -- PD Dr. Friedhelm Schwenker University of Ulm Institute of Neural Information Processing D-89069 Ulm, Germany phone: +49-731-50-24159 fax: +49-731-50-24156 email: friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de www: http://www.uni-ulm.de/in/neuroinformatik/mitarbeiter/f-schwenker.html

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Burst coding: extended deadline
by Zeldenrust, Fleur 28 Jun '16

28 Jun '16

Dear colleagues, Recently, you received a call for participation in the Frontiers Research Topic on Burst coding (see below). Due to FENS and the summer vacations, several authors asked us to extend the deadline. Therefore, the deadline for articles is now extended to: October 1st 2016. With kind regards, Fleur Zeldenrust Bernhard Englitz Wytse Wadman ________________________________ Dear colleagues, This is a call for participation in a Frontiers Research Topic titled "Burst coding: from cell to cognition” (for a description, see below). We, the editors, would highly value your participation. If you would like to contribute, please follow the following link: http://journal.frontiersin.org/researchtopic/4374/burst-coding-from-cell-to… Abstract deadline: 1 February 2016 Manuscript deadline: 30 June 2016 Please note that reviews at Frontiers allow and encourage a discussion between the authors and the reviewers. As editors we would like to further encourage you to use this opportunity, while guaranteeing from our side that a constructive discussion with the reviewers will have a positive influence on the evaluation of your work. Let us know if you have any questions about the Research Topic. We look forward to hearing from you soon. With kind regards, Fleur Zeldenrust Bernhard Englitz Wytse J. Wadman Guest Associate Editors, Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience BURST CODING: FROM CELL TO COGNITION Bursting is a firing mode of neurons in which they respond to and input with a group of high frequency action potentials, followed by a period of relative silence. These bursts can be generated intrinsically in neurons themselves, or they can be the result of network activity. Many different systems show a burst-firing mode next to a tonic-firing mode. Despite the ubiquity of bursting, the question of the functional properties of bursts remains unknown: why do some systems rely on bursts for their information transmission and what do bursts code for? We encourage authors to contribute their expertise, both from experimental and from computational backgrounds, on this question on the fundamental properties of burst coding. Papers should address one or more of the following issues: 1. Burst generation. How can different systems generate bursts? This includes both the single neuron level (active dendritic calcium, sodium dynamics, ‘ping-pong’ mechanisms) and the network level (synchronization, inhibition). 2. Differences between systems. In what brain areas of what animals do bursts occur (region CA3 of the rodent hippocampus, mammalian thalamus, weakly electric fish, insect auditory receptors), and what are the similarities/differences in the properties of these systems? 3. Detection and analysis of bursts. The detection of bursts is mostly done using inter-spike interval distributions or return maps; these give a typical inter-spike interval. Often, inter-spike intervals and spike amplitudes change over the course of a burst, making the last spikes in a burst hard to detect. This makes the analysis of burst challenging. Moreover, many traditional tools for the analysis of spike trains cannot be used to analyse spike trains that include bursts without some form of correction for it (reverse correlation techniques, Spike Coincidence Factor). 4. Information processing (burst coding). What are the functional information processing effects of bursts? These include decoding (resonance coding or inter-spike interval coding, burst duration coding), encoding (what stimulus features trigger bursts?), and other coding properties (reliability at unreliable synapses, feature detection for bursts versus stimulus estimation for single spikes, ‘wake-up call’ function of bursts). 5. Relation between bursts and pathology. The burst-firing mode of the thalamus has been associated with sleep and anaesthesia, and therefore with pathological conditions, before evidence showed that bursts also occur in awake states. Bursting in the subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus is associated with Parkinson’s disease; high-frequency cortical oscillations are thought to be a hallmark of epilepsy, but their origins have been disputed. Are there more relations between the burst-firing mode and pathological conditions? 6. Relation between bursts and behaviour. Bursts of complex spike cells play an important functional role in hippocampal place cells. In the oculomotor system bursts play an important role in generating saccades. In weakly electric fish, bursts are a response to ‘communication-like’ stimuli, but not to ‘prey-like’ stimuli. Thalamic bursts have a much stronger effect on their cortical targets than single spikes. These results suggest that bursts can have a different signalling function then single spikes, often associated with different behaviour. ABOUT FRONTIERS RESEARCH TOPICS Founded by scientists in 2007, Frontiers is a community-rooted open-access publisher, driving innovations in peer review, article-level metrics and research networking. The "Frontiers in" journal series hosts 54 journals covering more than 350 academic specialties, with a network of over 200,000 leading researchers worldwide. Frontiers is a registered member of the Open Access Scholarly Publishers Association (http://www.oaspa.org/member/Frontiers) and was recognized by the ALPSP Award for Innovation in Publishing in 2014. The idea behind a Frontiers Research Topic is to create a comprehensive collection of peer-reviewed articles that address a specific theme of research, as well as a forum for discussion and debate. Contributions can be articles describing original research, methods, hypothesis & theory, opinions, and more. Please see the relevant journal for a full list of accepted article types. Frontiers will also compile an e-book, as soon as all contributing articles are published, that can be used as educational material, be sent to foundations that fund your research, to journalists and press agencies, or to your professional network. E-books are free to read and download. Once published, your articles will be free to access for all readers, indexed in relevant repositories, and as an author in Frontiers, you retain the copyright to your own papers and figures. FRONTIERS PUBLISHING FEES Manuscripts accepted for publication are subject to publishing fees, which vary depending on the article type. All Research Topic manuscripts receive a discount on publishing fees; please see here for a full fee table, and further relevant FAQs: http://www.frontiersin.org/about/PublishingFees. http://www.frontiersin.org/Mail/IbarMail.aspx?op=4&msgid=10350094&msg=In

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PhD position at HU Berlin available
by Benjamin Lindner 27 Jun '16

27 Jun '16

We are looking for a PhD candidate in Computational Neuroscience with a strong background in theoretical physics, specifically in stochastic processes, to work on effective descriptions of temporal and spatial correlations in recurrent networks of spiking neurons. Funding is provided for three years, starting October 2016, through the international research training group IRTG 1740 "Dynamical Phenomena in Complex Networks: Fundamentals and Applications". Part of this program is a (minimum six month) stay in the lab of our collaborator in Brazil, Prof. Roque (FFCLRP, Universidade de Sao Paulo). For details on the doctoral examination process at the Physics Department of Humboldt University Berlin, see https://fakultaeten.hu-berlin.de/en/mnf/wisskar/promotionen/index_html?set_…. Please, send your application until July 31, 2016 to Nikola Schrenk (nikola.schrenk(a)bccn-berlin.de) and to me (benjamin.lindner(a)physik.hu-berlin.de) -- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Benjamin Lindner Theory of Complex Systems and Neurophysics Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin Philippstr. 13, Haus 2, 10115 Berlin Room: 1.17, phone: 0049(0)302093 6336 Department of Physics Humboldt University Berlin Newtonstr. 15 12489 Berlin Room: 3.408, phone: 0049(0)302093 7934 http://people.physik.hu-berlin.de/~lindner/index.html --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Postdoc position in cognitive and neural modeling (Angela Yu)
by Angela J. Yu 27 Jun '16

27 Jun '16

Applications are invited from highly motivated researchers for a postdoctoral position immediately available in the Computational & Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, led by Angela Yu, at University of California, San Diego. Initial appointment is one-two years, with flexible start date and opportunity for renewal. Anticipated research direction is rather flexible, generally involving developing a decision-theoretical framework for the inter-related problems of perceptual decision-making, active sensing, active learning, interactions between affective and cognitive processing, and social cognition. Candidates must have a strong mathematical and modeling background in Bayesian statistics, Markov decision process, and general machine learning methods. Experience with measure-theoretic probability theory, stochastic processes, stochastic control theory (stopping problems, bandit problems, sequential decision problems), and/or dynamical systems analysis is also desirable. Applicants should be committed to applying rigorous mathematical tools to modeling cognitive and neural processes. Experience or interest in carrying out human behavioral experiments (either in person or on Amazon M-Turk) and/or collaborating with other human/animal neuroscience laboratories is also desirable. Dr. Yu's lab is situated within the Cognitive Science department of UCSD, and affiliated with the Computer Science Department, Neurosciences Graduate Program, and the Institute of Neural Computation. There are ample opportunities for collaborations with related groups across the UCSD main campus, the medical school, and the Salk Institute. Interested candidates should send a research statement, along with a CV including publications, to Dr. Angela Yu (ajyu(a)ucsd.edu <mailto:ajyu@ucsd.edu>). Two or more letters of references should be sent directly to the same address. ------------------------------------- Angela J. Yu Associate Professor UCSD Cognitive Science www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu -------------------------------------

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PhD position in Deep Neural Learning for Computer Vision - Naples, Italy
by Alfredo Petrosino 25 Jun '16

25 Jun '16

A fully funded 3-year PhD position is available at CVPRLab (cvprlab.uniparthenope.it) of the department of Science and Technology at the University of Naples Parthenope, Italy, on topics related to neural and machine learning and scene understanding. The aim is to work about new models of deep neural architectures with biological plausability capable of human-like learning, including learning from scratch and spatio temporal analysis. Applications include autonomous systems, active vision, and elderly assisted living, also through mobile devices and jointly with highly specialised industries. Eligibility requirements include: - Master of Science degree with academic excellence, i.e. normally an Honours Degree; - Strong experience in machine learning and basics of computer vision, as well as good mathematical and programming skills (either C/C++ or MATLAB). The net salary is nearly 1.300,00 euros per month. For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see Advert link: http://www.unimi.it/cataloghi/dottorati_borse_premi/Bando_DOTTORATI_XXXII_c… Forms link: http://www.unimi.it/cataloghi/dottorati_borse_premi/Allegati%20bando%20gene… The deadline for applications is 1pm, 6 July 2016. Further information are given by sending an email to petrosino(a)uniparthenope.it Alfredo Petrosino, University of Naples Parthenope ****************************************************************************** IL MERITO DEGLI STUDENTI VIENE RICONOSCIUTO Il 5 per mille all'Universita' degli Studi di Napoli "Parthenope" incrementa le borse di studio agli studenti - codice fiscale 80018240632 http://www.uniparthenope.it/index.php/it/5-per-mille Questa informativa e' inserita in automatico dal sistema al fine esclusivo della realizzazione dei fini istituzionali dell'ente.

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Computational Neuroscience Postdoctoral Positions at Sandia National Laboratories
by Chance, Frances S. 24 Jun '16

24 Jun '16

(Apologies in advance for any cross-posting) Colleagues, We are seeking computational neuroscientists to join an interdisciplinary research program focused on understanding neural computation at the circuit level. Example research topics of interest include computational models of retina, visual cortex (or the neural circuitry underlying perception), and the hippocampus. Candidates should have a strong background in neuroscience, and an interest in understanding of relations between neuroscience, cognitive science, and computation. Our department is part of a highly interdisciplinary community of researchers with interests spanning systems neuroscience and brain-inspired computing, engineering, and computer science. Successful applicants will be expected to conduct high-quality research, maintain a successful publication record in peer-reviewed journals, and develop collaborations with this vibrant and growing community. This position is located at Sandia's Albuquerque, NM, USA site. Required 1. A Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related field. 2. Experience with neuroscience research methods and data analysis. 3. Strong publication record. 4. Excellent interpersonal, communication and writing skills. 5. Demonstrated ability to contribute to multidisciplinary teams. 6. Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy security clearance. Desired At least some of the following qualifications are preferred: 1. Demonstrated abilities in mathematical and computational modeling of neural or cognitive function. 2. Previous research experience in a sensory system. 3. Experience with biologically-inspired machine learning algorithms. 4. Experience developing in at least one C-derived programming language (C, C++, C#, Java, etc.), or with a neural simulator (NEURON, PyNN, NEST, etc). 5. Laboratory experience in any of: electrophysiology, neural imaging, connectomics, pharmacological manipulations combined with measurement of neural activity. Submissions: Apply online at http://www.sandia.gov/careers/index.html - select "View All Jobs", and search for 653748 in the keywords box. Please include a letter of interest and a curriculum vitae. For questions or information, please contact Frances Chance (fschanc(a)sandia.gov<mailto:fschanc@sandia.gov>) or Brad Aimone (jbaimon(a)sandia.gov) Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but to ensure full consideration please submit by August 31, 2016. Sandia National Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

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[jobs] Post-Doc in Developmental Robotics - Short Deadline
by Patricia Hazel Shaw [phs] 24 Jun '16

24 Jun '16

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Fixed Term until 31 March 2018) Institute of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science Grade 7 - £32,600 - £37,768 Closing Date: 30th June 2016 Interview Date: 4th July 2016 Applicants are invited to join the Robotics Laboratory for a project (entitled “Developmental Algorithms for Robotics”). The project is focusing on developmental robotic learning based on an iCub humanoid robot. This is a three year EPSRC funded project running at Aberystwyth University started March 2015, with the support of an International Scientific Advisory Board consisting of leading developmental psychologists. We wish to appoint a Post-Doctoral Research Associate who will develop models based on the psychological literature, and conduct experiments on our iCub humanoid robot. The successful candidate will have appropriate modelling skills and experience, and proven abilities in this area. Other tasks include writing scientific documents and papers, documenting experiments and writing reports, supervising a PhD student and collaborating with other researchers. Regular European travel will be involved. The project ends March 2018, with the fixed-term contract running to this date. For informal enquiries contact Patricia Shaw: phs(a)aber.ac.uk<mailto:phs@aber.ac.uk> +44 (0)1970 622432. For the full job description, please visit: https://jobs.aber.ac.uk/en/vacancy/post-doctoral-research-associate-develop… -------------------------------------------------------------------- Astudio gyda ni yn Aberystwyth - Prifysgol Gyntaf Cymru https://www.aber.ac.uk/cy/undergrad/ Study at Aberystwyth – Wales’ First University https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/undergrad/

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Postdoctoral Position at Yale Neuroscience
by McCormick, David 22 Jun '16

22 Jun '16

An outstanding, highly-motivated post-doctoral fellow is sought to participate in studies on the cellular/network mechanisms of optimal state for performance. Candidates experienced in either computational, imaging/optogenetic, or electrophysiological methodologies are sought. We are investigating the mechanisms by which the optimal state for detection and discrimination performance is achieved in mouse neocortex. Mice are trained to perform visual and auditory detection/recognition/discrimination tasks. Through state-of-the-art techniques, such as two-photon monitoring of activity in known neuromodulatory axons in the cortex, whole cell recording of synaptic activity, high density array recordings of cortical unit activity, and optogenetic manipulation of specific transmitter systems, we are able to determine and decipher the role of different transmitter systems and neural pathways that rapidly control neuronal responsiveness. We have recently shown that the waking state varies on a continual basis and that these fluctuations account for a large component of response and behavioral variance. We take a circuit-based approach to systems neuroscience, revealing how the nervous system achieves a goal through the synaptic interaction of cells in local and long range circuits, modulated by neurotransmitters, to generate flexible behavior. Support: Postdoctoral fellows are well supported with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to their experiments. Salary (45-65K) is competitive and commensurate with experience and contribution. Lab website: www.mccormicklab.org<http://www.mccormicklab.org/> Please contact david.mccormick(a)yale.edu<mailto:david.mccormick@yale.edu> with inquiries and applications. Send statement of interest, CV, and the names of three people for letters of recommendation. Positions available Fall, 2016. David A. McCormick Professor, Neuroscience | Yale University School of Medicine Dept. Neuroscience 333 Cedar Street | New Haven, CT 06510 | 203.785.5981 www.mccormicklab.org<http://www.mccormicklab.org/> | www.neurobiology.org<http://www.neurobiology.org/>

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Summer school on neural and sensorimotor foundations of social interaction (BCBT/socSMCs)
by Alexander Maye 21 Jun '16

21 Jun '16

---------------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR PARTICIPATION ---------------------------------------------------------- Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School (BCBT2016) University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. 5-16 September 2016 http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16 Join us for the annual "Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology summer school - BCBT2016 " (see http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/home) to be held 5-16 September 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. The BCBT summer school is positioned at the interface between biology and future and emerging technologies with an emphasis on the principles underlying brains and their translation to avant-garde technologies. BCBT promotes a shared systems-level understanding of the functional architecture of the brain and its possible emulation in artificial systems. The summer school has been part of a series of events organized by the European coordination action Convergent Science Network of Biomimetics and Neurotechnology (http://csnetwork.eu/) This year the school will be supported by the EU project socSMCs (Socializing Sensorimotor Contingencies) - A FET Proactive Horizon 2020 funded research project. (http://socsmcs.eu/) This is the 9th year of BCBT, which has run with great success in previous years thanks to an excellent line-up of outstanding speakers (see bcbt.upf.edu for previous editions of the school). BCBT lectures are available online (see http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/media) with the BCBT Podcast interviews with many of the BCBT speakers. BCBT caters to students and researchers involved in projects that are in the ambit of “BIO-ICT convergence”, "Brain Inspired ICT", “Cognitive systems- robotics”, “Cognitive and neural systems”, “Foundations of social cognition”. BCBT will offer up to 30 student slots for the practical workshops, while as many researchers can register to attend the presentations and discussion sessions as they are interested. The atmosphere of the BCBT summer school is informal with the goal to stimulate in-depth discussion. There are 1 or 2 presentations in the morning, with the afternoons reserved for tutorials and projects for student participants and road-mapping workshops or further discussion for senior scientists. For the 2016 edition we plan a 1st week of the school addressing Neural basis of social interaction while the 2nd week will include presentations aimed at the investigation of Socializing Sensorimotor Contingencies. Friday 16 is reserved for the presentation of the student projects to which everybody is invited. Application deadline: July 27th, 2016 For more information on how to apply, please go to http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/ participate BCBT is organized by Paul Verschure (BCBT Chair), ICREA and University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES Andreas K. Engel (BCBT Co-Chair) University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), DE Anna Mura (BCBT Co-Chair), University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES -- _____________________________________________________________________ Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf; Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts; Gerichtsstand: Hamburg | www.uke.de Vorstandsmitglieder: Prof. Dr. Burkhard Göke (Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Dr. Uwe Koch-Gromus, Joachim Prölß, Rainer Schoppik _____________________________________________________________________ SAVE PAPER - THINK BEFORE PRINTING

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Postdoc Position Available in the Kanan lab at the Rochester Institute of Technology
by Christopher Kanan 21 Jun '16

21 Jun '16

Topic: Machine learning and deep learning for detecting manipulated images One postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Christopher Kanan at the Rochester Institute of Technology, in Rochester, NY (USA). The lab specializes in applying machine learning algorithms to solve problems in computer vision and related fields. The candidate will be responsible for developing new algorithms for the detecting manipulated and tampered images. Requirements: Ph.D. in computer science or related field; A research record in computer vision and/or machine learning; Familiarity with deep learning The position is initially for one year, but is renewable upon strong performance for an additional year. The salary is significantly above the typical postdoctoral market rate. Applications should be sent by email to ( christopher.kanan(a)rit.edu) and should include a CV, the expected data of availability, and contact information for 3 references. The starting date is September 2016. I will be available to do interviews during CVPR-2016. -- Christopher Kanan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Carlson Center for Imaging Science Rochester Institute of Technology Office 3140, Building #76 http://klab.cis.rit.edu/ http://www.chriskanan.com

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PhD and PostDoc Position at Düsseldorf
by Esther Florin 20 Jun '16

20 Jun '16

Please note that the deadline is on the 27th of June. An earlier message was not delivered. Post-Doc and PhD position at the Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf Both positions are in the context of the project “Spontaneous brain activity in healthy subjects and Parkinson's disease”, funded by the Volkswagen foundation. The project aims at providing a characterization of the neurophysiological basis of the brain’s resting state networks (RSNs) by determining how communication between and within RSNs is mediated, using electro-/magnetoencephaolographic (E/MEG) data from healthy participants. In the second part of the project the characterization of RSN electrophysiology will be used to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease. A particular focus will be on tracing out the electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of dopamine treatment and deep brain stimulation. The jobs involve research design, data collection, data analysis, methods developments/implementation, presenting at conferences, and participating in the writing up of the results. The PostDoc is also expected to assist in the supervision and training of junior lab members. Preferable candidates will have a strong background in physics, neuroscience, electrophysiology, biology, computer science or related fields. Knowledge of MEG/EEG biophysics, data acquisition and analysis, biostatistics, and signal processing or the willingness and capability to quickly acquire this knowledge are essential. Qualities we are looking for: · Good scientific programming and data processing skills · Familiarity with Matlab and LaTeX · Solid knowledge of descriptive and inductive statistics and time series analysis · Previous exposure to M/EEG source estimation, Brainstorm, and fMRI resting state analysis are considered a plus · Strong motivation to carry out neuroimaging studies utilizing MEG and to perform source and connectivity analysis · Knowledge of neuroscience concepts · Good interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in the interaction with subjects and patients (beneficial: knowledge of German) · Excellent skills in written and spoken English; · Proven track record of academic excellence What we offer: The group is part of the Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology at Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, located in the capital of Germany’s biggest state. The institute hosts a state-of-the-art 306 channel MEG-system and a 128 channel EEG system as well as a 3T MRI. The Heinrich-Heine University (HHU) is part of the Neuroscience Network Düsseldorf, a collaborative effort jointly with the Research Centre Jülich and the IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine Düsseldorf. A particular focus of this network is the investigation of disease-associated pathomechanisms such as the one of Parkinson's disease. At the HHU Düsseldorf the graduate school iBrain has been established and enables graduate students to obtain further formal qualifications in neuroscience. Terms and conditions for this position: Both positions are available from 1st of July 2016 or until filled. The initial appointment is for 2-3 years (postdoc) or 3 years (PhD student). Salary for the PostDoc will be according to E13/TV-L and for the PhD up to 0.65 E13/TV-L. Health insurance is included. The contract will be affiliated with Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf. Female candidates are encouraged to apply; they will be given preference in cases of equal aptitude, ability, and professional achievements unless there are exceptional reasons for choosing another applicant. Applications from suitably qualified severely disabled persons or disabled persons regarded as being of equal status according to Book IX of the German Social Legal Code (SGB – Soziales Gesetzbuch) are encouraged to apply. Disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration in the case of equal aptitude. More information about this vacancy? Please contact Esther Florin: esther.florin(a)med.uni-duesseldorf.de<redir.aspx?REF=n0heCJN2SIPp5bF7BPLNIgtomqUCHYIGBBx5vHNmbFYEOMc_OJnTCAFtYWlsdG86ZXN0aGVyLmZsb3JpbkBtZWQudW5pLWR1ZXNzZWxkb3JmLmRl> Are you interested? Please send your application within 3 weeks to: Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf D 01.2.1 – Kennziffer: 149E/16, Moorenstr. 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf It should include the following documents: · short (one page) application letter · your CV, incl. a list of publications and the names and contact details of two scientists who can provide references · writing sample · one-page summary of your research For administrative reasons, we cannot return applications. In submitting your application, you give your consent to the retention of the application documents by the university hospital Düsseldorf. _______________________________________________ Dr. Esther Florin Lichtenberg Assistant Professor for Systems Neuroscience Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf Tel: +49-(0)211-81-08439 esther.florin(a)med.uni-duesseldorf.de<redir.aspx?REF=n0heCJN2SIPp5bF7BPLNIgtomqUCHYIGBBx5vHNmbFYEOMc_OJnTCAFtYWlsdG86ZXN0aGVyLmZsb3JpbkBtZWQudW5pLWR1ZXNzZWxkb3JmLmRl>

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Postdoctoral Fellowship in multiscale modeling methods for neuroscience simulation
by McDougal, Robert 17 Jun '16

17 Jun '16

Multiscale Modeling Postdoctoral Fellowship available for combining cell biology (reaction-diffusion) and electrophysiology in the NEURON simulator (neuron.yale.edu<http://neuron.yale.edu>). The position involves an unusual mix of software engineering and science, depending on the candidate's background and interests. Mathematically, interesting challenges arise in coupling 1D and 3D simulations and coupling deterministic with stochastic simulation. Biologically, dendrites and spines produce complex morphologies with much possibility for spatial variation in concentration. At the network level, the molecular scale interacts in unexpected ways with cellular and network dynamics. Although the work is technical and focused on software development, paper writing is expected with opportunity for both methods papers and biological papers, typically in collaboration with experimental labs. The postdoc will receive training in a wide range of interdisciplinary skills from computer science, applied math, biophysics, cell biology, electrophysiology, etc. The work is being performed in close collaboration with experimental laboratories, giving the opportunity to immediately determine how closely a modeling technique can match the experimental reality (or how experimental artifact can be reduced so as to match a model). Candidates should have a strong background in computer programming, with demonstrated proficiency in C/C++, Python, or some other major language. Familiarity with any or all of threading, MPI, SBML, or user interface design is a strong plus. Strong interest, though not necessarily research experience, in cell biology and/or neuroscience is a must. Some experience with NEURON is desirable. We are part of the team that develops and disseminates the NEURON multiscale modeling (MSM) environment, used by thousands of researchers over decades (now in year 40). As with most simulators, NEURON has historically emphasized neuronal network connectivity and cell membrane electrical dynamics. Recent advances in genomics and proteomics require that the scales of cell biology be added to the MSM mosaic. This extension is particularly important for understanding major problems in learning and memory (the genesis of long-term potentiation in the interaction of chemo- and electro-) and in understanding and developing treatments for brain disease. The work is being done as a collaboration between SUNY Downstate and Yale University under the auspices of a 5 year continuation of an ongoing grant from the National Institute of Mental Health. The NIH and other agencies (FDA, NASA, NSF, DARPA, others) are making a strong push to enhance multiscale modeling in biomedical engineering across organ systems, but particularly with respect to brain function and brain disease -- this is a major growth area in bioscience. Based on the candidate's background and preferences, job could be in Brooklyn, New Haven or via telecommuting. The labs maintain frequent communication via instant messaging (Slack) with software sharing via git and mercurial. Applicants should contact Bill Lytton or Robert McDougal by email (billl at neurosim.downstate.edu<http://neurosim.downstate.edu> robert.mcdougal at yale.edu<http://yale.edu>; no snail mail please) with a CV and cover letter describing your experience with any relevant technologies (Python, C/C++, MPI, NEURON, etc). SUNY is an equal opportunity employer.

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Biomag 2016 Brain Connectivity Analysis Competition
by Stefan Haufe 17 Jun '16

17 Jun '16

Dear colleagues, we have just launched a data analysis competition on brain connectivity analysis using EEG and MEG. Detailed information on the challenge and the data to be analyzed can be found at http://bbci.de/supplementary/EEGconnectivity/BBCB.html . At this website, we also offer a basic Matlab-based software framework for generating EEG/MEG data in a realistic head model, plotting results, etc. You and your colleagues are warmly invited to participate in the challenge. Please feel free to pass on this link to anyone else who might be interested. Besides active participation we would also be very happy to just hear your general opinion on the design of the challenge, and about any suggestions for extension (in the future). Our challenge is on of three official data analysis competitions of this year's BIOMAG conference. The invitation to participate in all three challenges is pasted below for your convenience. With best wishes, Stefan Haufe and Arne Ewald -------- Forwarded Message -------- Subject: [megcommunity] Biomag 2016 Data Analysis Competition Date: Mon, 30 May 2016 16:56:31 +0200 From: Ole Jensen <ole.jensen(a)DONDERS.RU.NL> Reply-To: Ole Jensen <ole.jensen(a)DONDERS.RU.NL> To: MEGCOMMUNITY(a)JISCMAIL.AC.UK Dear all, We are happy to announce three challenges for the 'Data Analysis Competition' at Biomag 2016. Please see details at http://www.biomag2016.org/data_analysis_competition.php The aim of the competitions is to promote the development and application of new analysis techniques. The challenges will help to elucidate pros and cons of different techniques and attract experts from outside the MEG field. The winners of the competition will be given the opportunity to present their proposal at the Biomag meeting in Seoul (Oct 1-6) in order to spark discussions on analysis. Please encourage colleagues to participate! Best regards, Ole Jensen -- Prof. dr. Ole Jensen http://www.neuosc.com

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FW: 2nd Call for Papers: IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems
by Arindam Basu 17 Jun '16

17 Jun '16

Dear all， You are invited to submit your work to IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems. The submission deadline has been extended to June 30, 2016. Thanks for your contributions! (And apologies for cross-posting if any) IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems AIM AND SCOPE In recent years neuromorphic computing has become an important emerging research area. There has been rapid progress in computational theory, learning algorithms, signal processing and circuit design and implementation, which have shown appealing computational advantages over conventional solutions. The low size, weight, and power of these hardware architectures shows great potential for embedded cognitive systems. Starting from emulating the computational principles and architecture found in neural systems, neuromorphic computing aims to integrate sensory coding, synaptic computing (e.g., STDP), learning and memory, and attempts to develop neuromorphic sensors and chips, and cognitive behaving systems such as robots. Neuromorphic hardware has provided a fundamentally different technique for data representation and learning, e.g., asynchronous events rather than regularly sampled frames of images. Various hardware systems leveraging on neural spikes based computing have been reported to achieve good performance with much lower power consumption. Therefore, neuromorphic computing can inform cognitive systems because the algorithms that run on this hardware must be neurobiologically inspired. A huge potential exists for applying this emerging computing framework to the next generation of cognitive systems and robotics, neuro-inspired sensors and processors, etc. THEMES This special issue aims to report state-of-the-art approaches and recent advances on (a) learning algorithms constrained by limits of biology and neuromorphic hardware (b) neuromorphic hardware for cognitive systems and (c) applications of neuromorphic architecture or hardware to cognitive robotics. Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to • Neuromorphic cognitive systems • Cognitive robotics • Brain-inspired data representation models • STDP, Spike-based sensing and learning algorithms • Spike based processing and methods for configuring spike-based processors SUBMISSION Manuscripts should be prepared according to the “Information for Authors” of the journal found at http://cis.ieee.org/publications.html and submissions should be done through the IEEE TCDS Manuscript center: https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tcds-ieee <https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tcds-ieee> and please select the category “SI: Neuromorphic Computing”. IMPORTANT DATES 15 June 2016-Extended to 30 June 2016: Deadline for manuscript submission 15 Sep 2016: Notification of authors 15 Oct 2016: Deadline for revised manuscripts 15 Nov 2016：Final version GUEST EDITORS Huajin Tang, Sichuan University, China. （htang(a)scu.edu.cn<mailto:htang@scu.edu.cn>） Tiejun Huang, Peking University, China. （tjhuang(a)pku.edu.cn<mailto:tjhuang@pku.edu.cn>） Garrick Orchard，National University of Singapore (garrickorchard(a)nus.edu.sg<mailto:garrickorchard@nus.edu.sg>） Arindam Basu，Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (arindam.basu(a)ntu.edu.sg<mailto:arindam.basu@ntu.edu.sg>） Jeffrey L. Krichmar，University of California, Irvine, US （jkrichma(a)uci.edu<mailto:jkrichma@uci.edu>） Best regards, Arindam ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY: This email is intended solely for the person(s) named and may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it, notify us and do not copy, use, or disclose its contents. Towards a sustainable earth: Print only when necessary. Thank you.

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Fwd: Faculty Position in Neural Data and Imaging Sciences, Sabanci Univ., Istanbul
by Mujdat Cetin 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

*Faculty Position in Neural Data and Imaging Sciences at Sabancı University* http://ee.sabanciuniv.edu/en/full-time-faculty-position-neural-data-and-ima… The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (FENS) at Sabancı University, İstanbul, Turkey invites applications for a full-time faculty position in the area of Neural Data and Imaging Sciences with a targeted start date of Fall 2016. The ideal candidate for this position would have a Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, computational neuroscience, or a related field, as well as a strong research and publication record in the area of information extraction from challenging neural data. Particular research areas of interest include but are not limited to neuroinformatics, big neural sensor data analytics, biomedical imaging, brain informatics, signal processing of neural activity, computational neuroimaging, neural image analysis, machine learning for understanding the brain, and connectomics. Sensing/imaging modalities of interest include but are not necessarily limited to MRI, fMRI, DTI, PET, EEG, MEG, ECoG, and several forms of microscopy. Application areas of interest include, but are not limited to healthcare, neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, neurorehabilitation, and neurorobotics. The faculty member will have a primary affiliation with the Electronics Engineering program but will be expected to conduct collaborative research with other programs in FENS as well. Applications from candidates at all ranks are encouraged. For candidates at the Assistant Professor level, post-doctoral research experience is a plus. Successful candidates are expected to develop externally-funded internationally-recognized research programs; teach undergraduate and graduate courses; advise and mentor graduate and undergraduate students; and undertake service responsibilities. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to benefit from the state-of-the-art infrastructure of the brand-new Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), as well as to be involved in the Professional Master’s Program in Data Analytics. Sabancı University, a privately funded premier academic institution, established in 1996 in its state-of-the-art campus located in suburban İstanbul. The university offers 13 undergraduate programs and 38 graduate programs in three faculties (Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Management). The University aims to establish a high standard of academic excellence and a research-oriented atmosphere for its international faculty and students, while nurturing productive relationships particularly with the industries in the region which constitute the industrial heartland of Turkey. The medium of instruction is English. In 2015, Sabancı University ranked 13th globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of the top 100 universities under 50 years old, and 21st in the THE Asia university rankings. In the recently announced THE ranking of the world’s best small universities in 2016, Sabancı University ranked 10th globally. It ranked first among all universities in Turkey in the University Entrepreneurship and Innovation Index of the Ministry of Science, Industry, and Technology in 2015. Detailed information about the Electronics Engineering Program at Sabancı University can be found at http://ee.sabanciuniv.edu/ Applicants should submit their applications online through https://crm.sabanciuniv.edu/acadcv/application.php and provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, statement of teaching interests, and at least three professional references. Review of applications will begin on July 1, 2016 and will continue until the position is filled. -- Mujdat Cetin Technical Program Co-chair, IVMSP 2016 -- http://ivmsp2016.org Technical Co-chair, FUSION 2016 -- http://fusion2016.org Faculty Member Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Sabanci University Orhanli, Tuzla 34956, Istanbul, Turkey Phone : +90 (216) 483-9594 Fax : +90 (216) 483-9550 E-mail : mcetin(a)sabanciuniv.edu Web : http://spis.sabanciuniv.edu

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Scientist II opening in Computational Neuroscience at the Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, USA)
by Costas Anastassiou 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Scientist II opening in Computational Neuroscience Lab headed by Dr. Costas Anastassiou Allen Institute of Brain Science Do you want to make a difference in our understanding of brain disorders? Do you have a solid background in computational neuroscience/scientific computing/simulation-based research and curious about how the brain works? Are you able to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment? The laboratory headed by Dr. Costas Anastassiou at the Allen Institute is currently looking for a talented Scientist II to work on large-scale, biophysically detailed brain circuit simulations to explore the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Our mission at the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human brain works in health and disease. By implementing a team science approach on a large scale we strive to generate useful public resources, drive technological innovations and discover fundamental brain properties through integration of experiments, modeling and theory. Position summary: We are seeking to fill a position at the level of Scientist II (SciII) to work on an exciting new translational neuroscience pilot project at the Institute. The goal of this project is to investigate cellular and circuit mechanisms of epileptogenesis in human hippocampus. To address these questions, we seek to develop a faithful computational model of the human epileptogenetic hippocampus consisting of a multitude of reconstructed, interconnected and biophysically faithful neurons emulating anatomical and dynamical characteristics of the pathological brain tissue. For examples of biophysically realistic network models as pursued in this work see [Schomburg, Anastassiou et al, J Neurosci, 2012; Reimann, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2013; Taxidis, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2015]. The aim of the computational model is to (i) understand how synaptic, cellular and connectivity properties of pathological brain tissue give rise to pathophysiological network dynamics, (ii) understand how pathophysiological dynamics are reflected on signals such as depth-, ECoG- and EEG-recordings, and (iii) identify intervention targets to abort or suppress pathological activity. Importantly, the computational effort will occur in parallel with novel in vitro experiments in brain slices derived from patients undergoing surgery for treatment refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy that will provide the data on which the computational modeling will be based. The project will be pursued in collaboration with in-house experimental colleagues as well as neurologists and neurosurgeons and has a guaranteed duration initially of 18 months beginning in the summer of 2016. Responsibilities: · Construct detailed biophysical models using cable theory and NEURON-software. · Design, implement and analyze large-scale network simulations. · Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences. · Prepare written and oral reports on a regular basis. · Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and relevant conferences. · Maintain clear and accurate communication with supervisor and team members. Qualifications: · PhD degree in computational neuroscience, physics, biology, bioengineering or related fields. · Strong background in scientific computing; experience in computational neuroscience is preferred, but other strong applicants will be considered (with background in computational physics, biophysics, and related disciplines). Experience with parallel computing is a plus as well as familiarity with high-level programming languages such as python. · Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment. · Strong publication record. · Experience in pursuing research projects in collaborative fashion. · Proven independent thinking and flexibility. · Familiarity with in vitro and in vivoelectrophysiological monitoring techniques and data analyses. · Strong written and verbal communication skills. How to apply: Visit the Allen Institute for Brain Science Careers website and fill out your information for the Scientist II-position under “2200-Modeling, Analysis and Theory”.

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Programmer wanted for Neuroscience and Neuroprosthetics Lab
by Sliman Bensmaia 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Lab at the cutting edge of neuroscience and neurotechnology looking for a programmer to keep us at the cutting edge! The lab has two general pursuits: discover the neural basis of touch and proprioception – how do patterns of activation in the nerve and in the brain mediate our ability to feel objects by touch and sense the position and movements of our limbs in space? – and to develop a somatosensory neuroprosthesis – How can we recreate the sense of touch by stimulating the nerve or the brain. See http://bensmaialab.org for additional information regarding the lab and the exciting work we are doing. Ideally, looking for a motivated, intelligent individual who works well with people, someone who might be able to make a long term commitment to the lab and help us build something special. Job Summary Responsible for interfacing the various machines in the lab (robots, sensors, data acquisition systems, etc.) with computers and with each other to run neurophysiological and behavioral experiments with human and non-human primates. Education Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field of engineering required. Experience One year of relevant programming experience required. Experience developing, implementing, debugging and maintaining applications required. Two years of professional programming experience preferred. Experience developing applications using C++, Matlab, Python, Java, MySQL, Visual Basic, and/or any other object oriented programming language preferred. Experience building and debugging electronic systems preferred but not required. Knowledge of electromechanical systems preferred but not required. Interest in and/or knowledge of neurophysiology preferred but not required. -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203 -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203

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Postdoctoral positions available in Dr. Suzanne Haber's lab
by Sarah Heilbronner 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

2 Postdoctoral positions are available in Dr. Suzanne Haber’s lab at the University of Rochester. The studies use nonhuman primate anatomical connectivity studies in combination with MRI in nonhuman and human primates to investigate: 1. Reward pathways and their interface with cognitive and motor control circuits; and 2. Circuitry underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The first project is designed to delineate connectional hubs within cortex and basal ganglia structures that receive convergent inputs from reward and cognitive control regions. Specific focus is on dorsolateral, ventrolateral, ventromedial, orbital, and anterior cingulate cortices and the striatum and amygdala. The approach is to use traditional anatomical tract-tracing circuitry techniques in combination with state of the art imaging methods such as diffusion and functional MRI to explore the location of these hubs in both animal and human brains and their relationship to disease. The second project is designed to characterize the organizational principles that govern white matter organization and trajectories connecting frontal areas with particular emphasis on the connectional hubs. These data will form the basis for segmenting white matter with respect to function in order to identify and evaluate diffusion MRI changes associated with OCD and its treatments. These studies are part of a Silvio O. Conte Center grant involving several Institutions and multiple techniques investigating the neurocircuitry of OCD and effects of neurostimulation. The ideal applicants would have background in systems neuroscience and/or neuroimaging. These positions will give opportunities to interact with pioneering scientists through the Conte Center grant and will provide unique training at the forefront of anatomy, neuroimaging, and translational neuroscience. Applicants should submit a summary of research interests, a curriculum vitae and names of three references to: Dr. Suzanne Haber, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology: Email: Suzanne_Haber(a)URMC.Rochester.edu. (AA/EOE).

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Extended Deadline for Goettingen's Advanced Computational Neuroscience Summer School
by Agostina Palmigiano 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Extended deadline for applications for the Advanced COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE Summer School in Göttingen, Germany September 06th - 16th, 2016 DEADLINE *June 24, 2016* %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% The aCNS School is a 10-day intensive course in mathematical and computational neuroscience. It offers students working in computational neuroscience and already familiar with its interdisciplinary nature, an intensive pedagogy of advanced mathematical and computational tools, designed to qualify young researchers to push the frontiers of the field. The course counts with and introductory day + 4 two-day theoretical blocks + 4 evening lectures in charge of the following researchers: * Vijay Balasubramanian <http://www.sas.upenn.edu/%7Evbalasub/public-html/Home.html>, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA * Jason Kerr <http://www.caesar.de/bbo.html>, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Bonn, Germany * Gilles Laurent <http://brain.mpg.de/research/laurent-department.html>, MPI for Brain research, Frankfurt, Germany * Tobias Moser <http://www.innerearlab.uni-goettingen.de/>, University Medical Center, Göttingen Germany * Erwin Neher <http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/1991/neher-bio.ht…>, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany * Magnus Richardson <https://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/systemsbiology/staff/richardson/>, University of Warwick, Conventry, England * Wolf Singer <http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/research/singer-lab/>, Ernst Strüngmann Institute for Neuroscience, Frankfurt, Germany * Misha Tsodyks <http://www.weizmann.ac.il/neurobiology/labs/tsodyks/>, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel The consecutive two day thematic blocks are dedicated to mathematical approaches to circuit dynamics. Each lecturer will give a self-contained introduction to a particular set of theoretical tools in a block of two morning lectures. In the afternoon, participants will work on problem sets designed to develop proficiency in both the mathematical and computational tools learned earlier that day. An additional set of evening ‘easy’ lectures will give the opportunity to discuss significant advances in the field. The course takes place at the Department of Nonlinear Dynamics of the Max-Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen. Registration fee is 200 euros. Course language is English. Housing is provided by the school. Travel grants can be provided upon request. Only 15 participants will accepted. We invite applicants to apply by filling out the application form at: http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/events/cns-course <http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/events/cns-course> by *June 24, 2016*. Organizers: Rainer Engelken, Joscha Liedtke, Agostina Palmigiano, Manuel Schottdorf, Jens Wilting Best wishes and looking forward to seeing you in Göttingen, Agostina Palmigiano ___________________________ Agostina Palmigiano Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization Am Fassber 17, 37077 Goettingen +49 551 5176 421 office +49 163 882 6689 mobile http://www.nld.ds.mpg.de/ <http://www.nld.ds.mpg.de/> ___________________________

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Postdoctoral Position in Computational Neuroscience at Georgia State University
by Yaroslav Molkov 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

A postdoctoral/research associate position in computational neuroscience for the initial duration of one year is immediately available in the externally funded project focusing on multi-scale computational modeling of motor control mechanisms, involving interactions between basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum, cortex, and spinal cord in connection with realistic simulation of pathological changes in motor control during Huntington’s disease. This collaborative project is performed jointly by the groups of Drs. Ilya Rybak (Dept. of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA) and Yaroslav Molkov (Dept. of Mathematics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA). Applicants must have a PhD degree in Neuroscience, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline, a strong research record, and excellent C++ programming skills. Previous experience in computational neuronal modeling is a plus. Georgia State University is an urban public research university. Georgia State students and employees can take advantage of the university’s easy access to Atlanta’s rich creative environment, diversity of cultures and lifestyles, and wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. The world’s busiest airport is just minutes from campus. Atlanta provides Georgia State’s faculty and students with an urban laboratory, enabling them to draw creative inspiration. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Molkov (ymolkov(a)gsu.edu) by email. To apply, please send an email along with (1) curriculum vitae; (2) a cover letter describing previous research experience and interests; (3) the names and contact information of three references. Dr. Molkov will be available to answer questions about this position during Organization for Computational Neuroscience Annual meeting, July 2-7, 2016, Jeju, Korea. ================================= Yaroslav Molkov, Ph.D. Associate Professor Georgia State University Department of Mathematics and Statistics 30 Pryor St SW, 750-COE, Atlanta, GA 30303 Office: 722-COE Phone/fax: (404) 413-6422 Email: ymolkov(a)gsu.edu

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Final Call for Papers: Extracellular Space
by Reinoud Maex 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE NEUROSCIENCE http://www.worldscinet.com/jin Call for Papers! Special Issue on Extracellular Space In experimental neuroscience, most electric signals are picked up from the electrolytic (or colloidal) solution that constitutes extracellular (interneuronal) space, yet the origin of these potentials is incompletely understood. Even more, theoreticians have recently argued about the physical principles underlying these phenomena. The present special issue invites experimental and theoretical work that can shed light on electric phenomena in extracellular space, with an emphasis on extracellular potentials and endogenous electric field interactions. The contributions solicited are original research papers and comprehensive reviews on methodological aspects. Submission deadline: 30 September 2016 Contact: Dr. Reinoud Maex reinoud.maex(a)ens.fr Questions that may be addressed are (but are not limited to): 1. The nature of extracellular potentials - What is nature of the electric currents, and what is the velocity (distribution) of the ions involved? Since membrane currents underlie the extracellular currents, what are the relative contributions of synaptic versus voltage-gated channels, excitatory versus inhibitory synapses, capacitive currents? How important are Lorenz forces between currents (due to the generated magnetic fields) and is there a contribution of polarization currents? - Is extracellular space purely resistive, or is a capacitive component involved, and what factors (such as ionic concentration, Debye shielding, etc.) contribute to its resistivity? 2. Modeling of extracellular potentials and electric field interactions - What level of detail is needed to model extracellular electrical phenomena, and which formalism can be employed? How valid is the cable equation, or need slow concentration changes of the major ionic components involved be modeled explicitly? How can LFP calculations be incorporated in simulation software? - Can volume transmission be simulated adequately as volume conductors? Are ephaptic coupling effects adequately simulated in one dimension? 3. Neuronal inference from measured extracellular potentials - What is the importance of the electrode characteristics for the proper interpretation of the measured signals? - What are the underlying assumptions, and limitations, of current-source-density analysis? How valid is the dipole approximation? Why are recent experiments being interpreted in terms of monopoles, and can single-compartmental model neurons generate local field potentials at all? - What can be learned from the power density distribution of signal frequencies? 4. Neurostimulation - What is the effect on neurons of an externally applied current or potential, and what mechanism (or rationale) underlies deep brain stimulation? 5. Physiological roles of extracellular potentials and endogenous electrical fields - Do extracellular potentials contribute to neuron-neuron and neuron-glia communication? Can there be a role for extracellular potentials in the homeostasis, clearance, and volume regulation of extracellular space, and in the control of blood flow and of the blood-brain-barrier. - What is the integrative role of endogenous electrical fields in brain function?

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Papers on networks of neurons with nonlinear dendrites and Binary Synapses trained by structural plasticity
by Arindam Basu 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Dear all Let me draw your attention to some work done by our group over the past few years in developing networks of neurons with lumped dendritic nonlinearity and binary synapses. The connections on each dendritic branch is sparse and the neurons learn to classify patterns when trained using different structural plasticity rules. Thus learning happens by modiying network connection matrix and not by weight change. These networks have advantage for hardware implementations--reduced memory and resistance to mismatch due to binary synapses. We have demonstrated supervised and unsupervised spike time based learning rules and have used these networks as readout of liquid state machines, to improve the reservoir in a liquid state machine, to classify spike latency patterns like tempotron or to classify MNIST images. I summarize the papers below and also include arxiv links for your reading pleasure. 1. S. Hussain, S. C. Liu and A. Basu, "Biologically plausible, Hardware-friendly Structural Learning for Spike-based pattern classification using a simple model of Active Dendrites," Neural Computation , vol. 27, no. 4, pp. 845-897, April 2015 link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1411.5881.pdf ** Margin based learning, spike time based supervised learning, results on UCI dataset 2. S. Roy, A. Banerjee and A. Basu, "Liquid State Machine with Dendritically Enhanced Readout for Low-power, Neuromorphic VLSI Implementations," IEEE Trans. on Biomedical Circuits & Systems , vol. 8, no. 5, pp. 681-695, 2014. link:http://arxiv.org/pdf/1411.5458.pdf ** Readout of LSM, 30X less binary synapses compared to parallel perceptron 3. S. Roy, P. P. San, S. Hussain, Lee Wang Wei and A. Basu, "Learning Spike Time Codes through Morphological Learning with Binary Synapses," IEEE Trans. on Neural Networks & Learning Systems , vol. 27, no. 7, July 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1506.05212.pdf ** Classifying spike time latency patterns, comparison with tempotron 4. S. Hussain and A. Basu, "Multi-class Classification by Adaptive Network of Dendritic Neurons with Binary Synapses using Structural Plasticity," Frontiers in Neuroscience , Mar, 2016. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00113 link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4814530/ ** Ensemble learning, adaptive allocation of dendrites, performance on MNIST, hardware savings analysis 5. S. Roy and A. Basu, "An Online Unsupervised Structural Plasticity Algorithm for Spiking Neural Networks," IEEE Trans. on Neural Networks and Learning Systems , accepted, 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1512.01314.pdf ** unsupervised spike time based learning, sequence learning 6.S. Roy and A. Basu, "An online structural plasticity rule for generating better reservoirs," Neural Computation , accepted, 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1604.05459.pdf ** Improving separation property of reservoirs in LSM Thanks Arindam Basu Assistant Professor School of EEE Nanyang Technological University http://www3.ntu.edu.sg/home/arindam.basu/ Regards, Arindam ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY: This email is intended solely for the person(s) named and may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it, notify us and do not copy, use, or disclose its contents. Towards a sustainable earth: Print only when necessary. Thank you.

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comp-neuro current status
by Wijnants Mike 16 Jun '16

16 Jun '16

Dear comp-neuro user, As you may have noticed the comp-neuro mailing list has been offline for a few weeks. Unfortunately we lost access to the previous domain name because of miscommunication with the domain provider. To serve the computational neuroscience community we have decided to restart the service with a temporary domain as comp-neuro(a)neuroinformatics.be We plan to migrate to another domain name in the future and will announce this when ready. Groetjes, Erik

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