January 2017 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

CFP: FLAIRS 2017, Marco Island, FL,
by bisant＠umbc.edu 18 Oct '18

18 Oct '18

CALL FOR PAPERS FLAIRS 2017, Florida Artificial Intelligence Research Symposium Special Tracks on Data mining and Special Track on Cyber Security Marco Island, Florida http://www.flairs-30.info/ Paper submission deadline: November 21, 2016. Notifications: January 23, 2017. Camera ready version due: February 27, 2017. FLAIRS is an interdisciplinary artificial intelligence conference which especially encourages novel ideas and which features a double-blind review process. Data Mining Track This special track will be devoted to data mining with the aim of presenting new and important contributions in this area. Papers and contributions are encouraged for any work related to Data Mining. Topics of interest may include (but are in no way limited to): 1. Applications such as Intelligence analysis, medical and health applications, text, video, and multi-media mining, E-commerce and web data, financial data analysis, cyber security, remote sensing, earth sciences, bioinformatics, and astronomy. 2. Modeling algorithms such as hidden Markov models, decision trees, neural networks, statistical methods, or probabilistic methods; case studies in areas of application, or over different algorithms and approaches. 3. Feature extraction and selection. 4. Post-processing techniques such as visualization, summarization, or trending. 5. Preprocessing and data reduction. 6. Knowledge engineering or warehousing. Papers dealing with Cloud-based unstructured data or Cloud-based tool suites, such as Mahout or Apache Spark, are also encouraged. Cyber-Security Track Original high quality papers are sought for leading edge research and applications relating to the application of AI and Cyber Security. Topics of interest may include but are not limited to: · Machine Learning for Intrusion Detection Systems · NLP for text analysis in Cyber Security · Video and CCTV semantic analysis for terrorist or criminal action detection · AI & Biometrics, Internet of Things, and Cloud Computing security · AI & SCADA systems, Network Systems, and Embedded Systems security · Formal and theoretical approaches of intelligent security in WSNs · Legal and policy issues in intelligent security · Integrity, privacy, authentication and access control · Intelligent secure systems in multimedia databases · Social networks security · Intelligent incident response techniques in network and communication systems · Risk analysis and intelligent management · Virtual Private Networks intelligent security · Automated reasoning techniques of incidents and evidence analysis · Evidentiary aspects of digital forensics · Collaborative intelligent investigation · Intelligent systems in management, storage and reassembly · Steganography, watermarking, and forensic techniques in multimedia content processing · Lightweight security techniques · Intelligent Large-scale investigations and Big Data · Innovative non-repudiation techniques · Intelligent vulnerability analysis and assessment · Attacks tracking · Data hiding, tamper detection and recovery techniques · Security of e- healthcare systems and applications Note: We invite original papers (i.e. work not previously submitted, in submission, or to be submitted to another conference during the reviewing process). Submission Guidelines Interested authors should format their papers according to AAAI formatting guidelines. The papers should be original work (i.e., not submitted, in submission, or submitted to another conference while in review). Papers should not exceed 6 pages (or 4 pages for short paper, to be presented as a poster) and are due by November 21, 2016. For FLAIRS-30, the 2017 conference, the reviewing is a double blind process. Author names and affiliations should be Xd out on submitted papers to provide double-blind reviewing. Papers must be submitted as PDF through the EasyChair conference system, which can be accessed through the main conference web site (http://www.flairs-30.info/) Note: do not use a fake name for your EasyChair login - your EasyChair account information is hidden from reviewers. Authors should indicate which special track they are submitting to. The proceedings of FLAIRS will be published by the AAAI. Authors of accepted papers will be required to sign a form transferring copyright of their contribution to AAAI. FLAIRS requires that there be at least one full author registration per paper.

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NeuroMorpho.Org v7.0 [10th anniversary edition] released September 1st, 2016
by NeuroMorpho Administrator 04 Apr '17

04 Apr '17

Dear colleagues, We're excited to announce that almost exactly 10 years after the original launch, NeuroMorpho.Org passed the milestone of 50,000 reconstructions in the September 1, 2016 release of Version 7.0. This major update includes 12,693 additional reconstructions from 35 new datasets. The new data added in these last 6 months equal the total amount accumulated in the first seven years. This release also introduce several new functionalities, including (1) bibliography documenting data re-use from nearly 500 citations; (2) ontology-smart searches by species, brain regions, neuron types, and experimental conditions; (3) DOI minting capability for each article-associated dataset; and (4) API enabling object-oriented access to data and metadata. The literature coverage database was also updated to include publications through August 2016. Please visit the What's new page<http://neuromorpho.org/WIN.jsp> for details on the added data and other updates. We appreciate any and all feedback and comments. We are continuously grateful to all the data contributors<http://neuromorpho.org/acknowl.jsp#DC> who freely share their hard-won tracings with the community. Our apologies if you receive multiple versions of this message through cross-listing. Sincerely, The NeuroMorpho.Org team<http://neuromorpho.org/acknowl.jsp#NMO> ---------------- Giorgio Ascoli<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/cn3/ascoli>, PhD University Professor Director, Center for Neural Informatics, Structure, & Plasticity<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/cn3> Neuroscience Program<http://neuroscience.gmu.edu/>, Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/> Bioengineering Department<http://bioengineering.gmu.edu/>, Volgenau School of Engineering<http://volgenau.gmu.edu/> MS2A1 - George Mason University<http://gmu.edu/>, Fairfax, VA 22030-4444 Ph. +1(703)993-4383/+1(703)673-8894 Author of "Trees of the Brain, Roots of the Mind<http://www.amazon.com/Trees-Brain-Roots-Giorgio-Ascoli/dp/0262028980/>" (MIT Press, 2015<http://mitpress.mit.edu/books/trees-brain-roots-mind>) Founding Editor-in-Chief, Neuroinformatics<http://link.springer.com/journal/12021>

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Postdoctoral position modeling gamma synchrony in Carmen Canavier's lab
by Canavier, Carmen C. 25 Jan '17

25 Jan '17

Description A Senior Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the area of Computational Neuroscience in the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, LSU Health New Orleans in the lab of Dr. Carmen Canavier. The main project will take an existing model of interneuronal network gamma (ING) and embed it within a network of hippocampal pyramidal neurons in order to build a model of pyramidal-interneuronal gamma (PING). The project will include both theoretical and empirical analyses of the synchronization properties of these networks, and in particular the contribution of intrinsic neuronal properties as compared to synaptic properties. These analyses require knowledge of linear and nonlinear systems theory, probability theory and signal processing. The project will require programming in python and the simulation package NEURON to run parallelized simulations on a Linux cluster. This position will include administering the lab’s computational cluster and mentoring both graduate and undergraduate students. Qualifications * Ph.D. in Engineering, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics, Computer Science or a related field of study * At least three (3) years of experience in computational neuroscience Preferred Qualifications * Writing code, running the simulation package NEURON, using single neuron models * Signal processing experience and familiarity with nonlinear dynamics Applicant Instructions Qualified applicants should submit curriculum vitae and three letters of reference using the following link https://www.lsuhsc.edu/Administration/hrm/CareerOpportunities/Home/Detail/1…

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Symposia on Memory, March 6-10 in Barcelona
by Alex Roxin 25 Jan '17

25 Jan '17

Dear all, This is a reminder that there will be a week-long series of Symposia on Memory at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica this coming March 6-10. We will focus on a different topic each day, e.g. molecular and synaptic basis of memory, circuit mechanisms, cortex and hippocampus, and so on. There will be both experimental and theoretical talks; please look at the schedule if you are curious. You can view the schedule and register here http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/MATHMEM_Symposia.aspx There is a special, reduced fee, single day registration if you cannot attend the full meeting. Note that the final day of the program will take place at the Institut d'Estudis Catalans, a historic building in the heart of Barcelona, right next door to where Santiago Ramón y Cajal taught medicine! You can still submit abstracts for a poster or a contributed talk of which there will be a limited number. The deadline for submission is the -31st of January-. I hope to see you in Barcelona. best regards, Alex

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Call for abstracts, symposia and registration for CNS 2017 in Antwerp, Belgium
by Daniele Marinazzo 24 Jan '17

24 Jan '17

Dear all it's our pleasure to inform you that the site for the 26th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting is now up and running for submissions of papers and symposia proposals, and for registration. Please visit http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2017 for all the info on the conference. We also have a twitter account https://twitter.com/CNS2017Antwerp Looking forward to seeing you in beautiful Antwerp from July 15th to 20th, for what will be a great meeting! On behalf of all the organizers Daniele -- Daniele Marinazzo -- Department of Data Analysis Faculty of Psychology and Pedagogical Sciences, Ghent University Henri Dunantlaan 1, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium +32 (0) 9 264 6375 <http://www.da.ugent.be/>http://users.ugent.be/~dmarinaz/ https://twitter.com/dan_marinazzo http://helpdesk.ugent.be/e-maildisclaimer.php

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Sense 2 Synapse 2017 Conference, Saturday April 8th, The Rockefeller University, New York City, Registration Open
by Christoph Kirst 24 Jan '17

24 Jan '17

Dear Neuroscience Community, we like to invite you to join us for this year's *Sense 2 Synapse *which will be held on Saturday, *April 8th, 2017* in the Carson Family Auditorium at *The Rockefeller University, New York City *! The conference is an annual event for scientists working on the biology of sensory transduction, subsequent neural processing and perception. With *Larry Abbott *(Columbia University), *Nicole Rust* (University of Pennsylvania),****Sarah Woolley**(Columbia University) and*Gaby Maimon* (The Rockefeller University) we have a great list of key-note speakers, which will be complemented by talks selected from abstract submissions and a poster session. More information found on our website: *http://sense2synapse.com/ <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__sense2synapse.com_&d=Dw…> * and you can register here: *http://www.sense2synapse.com/registrationForm <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.sense2synapse.com_r…>* Join us for a great day of science, discussions and nice food ! The organizing team Christoph Kirst Florian Berger Jeremie Barral Gonzalo Otazu Nicolas Renier -- Christoph Kirst Fellow for Physics and Biology Center for Theoretical Studies and Kavli Physics Fellow Kavli Neural Systems Institute The Rockefeller University 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA +1 212 327 7561 :: ckirst(a)rockefeller.edu

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LM2017 - Second Call for Papers, Satellite Events and Sponsors (7 weeks until submission deadline)
by INFO CSNETWORK, Bústia Compartida 22 Jan '17

22 Jan '17

**Apologies for crossposting** 2nd Call for Papers, Satellite Events and Sponsors Living Machines VI: The 6th International Conference on Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems 25 – 28 July 2017 http://livingmachinesconference.eu/ <http://livingmachinesconference.eu/2017> Living Machines Conference | Home livingmachinesconference.eu Stanford will host Living Machines 2017! The 6th International Conference on Biomimetics and Biohybrid Systems will be hosted at Stanford University, California, US. To be hosted at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA Accepted papers will be published in Springer Lecturer Notes in Artificial Intelligence Submission deadline: March 10th, 2017 ______________________________________________________________ ABOUT LIVING MACHINES 2017 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqPOCDh1FNw YouTube www.youtube.com and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. The development of future real-world technologies will depend strongly on our understanding and harnessing of the principles underlying living systems and the flow of communication signals between living and artificial systems. Biomimetics is the development of novel technologies through the distillation of principles from the study of biological systems. The investigation of biomimetic systems can serve two complementary goals. First, a suitably designed and configured biomimetic artefact can be used to test theories about the natural system of interest. Second, biomimetic technologies can provide useful, elegant and efficient solutions to unsolved challenges in science and engineering. Biohybrid systems are formed by combining at least one biological component—an existing living system—and at least one artificial, newly-engineered component. By passing information in one or both directions, such a system forms a new hybrid bio-artificial entity. The theme of the conference also encompasses biomimetic methods for manufacture, repair and recycling inspired by natural processes such as reproduction, digestion, morphogenesis and metamorphosis. The following are some examples of “Living Machines” as featured at past conferences: • Biomimetic robots and their component technologies (sensors, actuators, processors) that can intelligently interact with their environments. • Biomimetic computers—neuromimetic emulations of the physiological basis for intelligent behaviour. • Active biomimetic materials and structures that self-organize and self-repair. • Nature-inspired designs and manufacturing processes. • Biohybrid brain-machine interfaces and neural implants. • Artificial organs and body-parts including sensory organ-chip hybrids and intelligent prostheses. • Organism-level biohybrids such as robot-animal or robot-human systems. ACTIVITIES The main conference will take the form of a three-day single-track oral and poster presentation programme, 26th to 28th July 2017, hosted at Stanford University, California, USA. The conference programme will include five plenary lectures from leading international researchers in biomimetic and biohybrid systems, and the demonstrations of state-of-the-art living machine technologies. The full conference will be preceded by up to two days of Satellite Events hosted at Stanford University. SUBMITTING TO LIVING MACHINES 2017 We invite both full papers and extended abstracts in areas related to the conference themes. All contributions will be refereed and accepted papers will appear in the Living Machines Proceedings, published in the Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence. Full papers (minimum 8 pages, up to 12 pages) are invited from researchers at any stage in their career and should present significant findings and advances in biomimetic or biohybrid research. More preliminary work is better suited for short paper submission (minimum 4 pages, with a maximum of ten references and no more than three self-citations). Full papers will be accepted for either oral presentation (single track) or poster presentation with a short podium preview. Extended abstracts will be accepted for poster presentation only. Authors of the best full papers will be invited to submitted extended versions of their paper for publication in a special issue of the Taylor & Francis journal Connection Science. Satellite events Active researchers in biomimetic and biohybrid systems are invited to propose topics for full or half-day tutorials, symposia or workshops on related themes to be held on the 25th July at Stanford University. Attendance at satellite events will attract a small fee intended to cover the costs of the meeting. There is flexibility about the content, organisation, and budgeting for these events. Please contact us if you are interested in organising a satellite event! EXPECTED DEADLINES March 10th, 2017 Paper submission deadline April 28th, 2017 Notification of acceptance May 15th, 2017 Camera ready copy July 25th - 28th 2017 Conference SPONSORSHIP Organisations wishing to sponsor the conference in any way and gain the corresponding benefits by promoting themselves and their products through conference publications, conference events, and conference publicity are encouraged to contact the organisers to discuss the terms of sponsorship and necessary arrangements. We offer a number of attractive options to potential sponsors: http://livingmachinesconference.eu/about/ VENUE Living Machines 2017 will be hosted at Stanford University a world leading research University that this year celebrates its 125th anniversary. Stanford is located in California's Bay Area, one of the most intellectually dynamic and culturally diverse areas of the US. Organising Committee: Mark Cutkosky, Stanford University (Local Organizing Chair) Paul Verschure, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Co-Chair) Tony Prescott, University of Sheffield (Co-chair) Michael Mangan, University of Lincoln (Programme Chair) Marc Desmulliez, Heriott Watt University, Scotland (Steering Committee) Anna Mura, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Web and Communications) Nathan Lepora, University of Bristol (Communications)

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New JETCAS Special Issue: Low-Power, Adaptive Neuromorphic Systems: Devices, Circuit, Architectures and Algorithms
by Arindam Basu 21 Jan '17

21 Jan '17

Dear all ** Apologies for cross-posting Would like to draw your attention to a new Special issue in JETCAS on "Low-Power, Adaptive Neuromorphic Systems: Devices, Circuit, Architectures and Algorithms" that I am co-editing with colleagues. Manuscript submission deadline is on April 30, 2017. Look forward to receiving your contributions. IEEE JOURNAL ON EMERGING AND SELECTED TOPICS IN CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS CALL for PAPERS Low-Power, Adaptive Neuromorphic Systems: Devices, Circuit, Architectures and Algorithms Guest Editors Full name Email Affiliation Arindam Basu* arindam.basu(a)ntu.edu.sg Nanyang Technological University Tanay Karnik tanay.karnik(a)intel.com Intel Hai Li hai.li(a)duke.edu Duke University Elisabetta Chicca chicca(a)cit-ec.uni-bielefeld.de Bielefeld University Meng-Fan Chang mfchang(a)mx.nthu.edu.tw National Tsing Hua University Jae-sun Seo jaesun.seo(a)asu.edu Arizona State University (* Corresponding) Scope and Purpose The recent success of “Deep neural networks” (DNN) has renewed interest in bio-inspired machine learning algorithms. DNN refers to neural networks with multiple layers (typically two or more) where the neurons are interconnected using tunable weights. Though these architectures are not new, availability of lots of data, huge computing power and new training techniques (such as unsupervised initialization, use of rectified linear units as the neuronal nonlinearity, regularization using dropout or sparsity, etc.) to prevent the networks from over-fitting have led to its great success in recent times. DNN has been applied to a variety of fields such as object or face recognition in images, word recognition in speech or even natural language processing and the success stories of DNN keep on increasing every day. However, the common training method in deep learning, such as back propagation, tunes the weights of neural networks based on the gradient of the error function, which requires a known output value for every input. It would be difficult to use such supervised learning methods to train and adapt to real-time sensory input data that are mostly unlabeled. In addition, training and classification phases of deep neural networks are typically separated, such that training occurs in the cloud or high-end graphics processing units, while their weights or synapses are fixed during deployment for classification. However, this makes it difficult for the neural network to continuously adapt to input or environment changes in real-world applications. By adopting unsupervised and semi-supervised learning rules found in biological nervous systems, we anticipate to enable adaptive neuromorphic systems for many real-time applications with a large amount of unlabeled data, similar to how humans analyze and associate sensory input data. Energy-efficient hardware implementation of these adaptive neuromorphic systems is particularly challenging due to intensive computation, memory, and communication that are necessary for online, real-time learning and classification. Cross-layer innovations on algorithms, architectures, circuits, and devices are required to enable adaptive intelligence especially on embedded systems with severe power and area constraints. Topics of Interest This special issue invites submissions relating to all aspects of adaptive neuromorphic systems across algorithms, devices, circuits, and architectures. Possible scalability to human brain-scale computing level with energy-efficient online learning is desired. Submissions are welcome in the following topics or other related topics: · Spin mode adaptive neuromorphics with devices such as spin transfer nano-oscillator, domain wall memory, tunneling magnetic resistance, inverse spin hall effect, etc. · Memristive technology based learning synapse and neurons · Neuromorphic implementations of synaptic plasticity, short-term adaptation and homeostatic mechanisms · Self-learning synapses (STDP and variants) and self-adaptive neuromorphic systems · High fan-in scalable interconnect fabric technologies mimicking brain-scale networks · Circuits and systems for efficient interfacing with post-CMOS memory based learning synapses · Design methodology and design tools for adaptive neuromorphic systems with post-CMOS devices · Algorithm, device, circuit, and architecture co-design for energy-efficient adaptive neuromorphic hardware Important Dates 1. Manuscript submissions due: April 30, 2017 2. First decision: July 15, 2017 3. Revised manuscripts due: August 15, 2017 4. Final Decision: October 15, 2017 5. Final manuscripts due: November 15, 2017 Request for Information Arindam Basu (arindam.basu(a)ntu.edu.sg<mailto:arindam.basu@ntu.edu.sg>) https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/jetcas 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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ICMNS 2017: *Reminder, Abstracts Due Jan 31, 2017*
by Zachary Kilpatrick 20 Jan '17

20 Jan '17

This is a reminder that Abstract Submissions are due January 31, 2017 for the 3rd International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS 2017), to be held at the Hotel Boulderado in Boulder, Colorado from May 30 to June 2, 2017. https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/index.html <https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/index.html> Meeting registration will open soon. Early Registration (Until March 31) will be $250 for students/postdocs, $350 for faculty, and $50 for tutorials. The International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience will provide a forum for researchers to discuss current mathematical innovations emerging in neuroscience. A major aim of the conference is to attract and train young researchers on current methods in mathematical neuroscience. Abstract Submission: We encourage abstract submission by researchers from all areas of mathematical neuroscience. One page abstracts will be reviewed by a Program Committee and divided into three parallel talk sessions and a poster session. Details are given here: https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/submissions.html <https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/submissions.html> Student Travel Awards: This year, we will offer student travel awards, due to the generous support from NSF, SIAM, Burroughs Wellcome, and the University of Colorado. To apply, students must submit an abstract and include a current CV as part of their submitted document in Easychair. Confirmed Speakers Danielle Bassett (University of Pennsylvania) Paul Bressloff (University of Utah) Nicolas Brunel (University of Chicago) Sophie Deneve (École Normale Supérieure) Brent Doiron (University of Pittsburgh) Marla Feller (University of California, Berkeley) Ila Fiete (University of Texas) Stefano Fusi (Columbia University) Peter Thomas (Case Western Reserve University) Taro Toyoizumi (Riken Brain Science Institute) Tutorial Speakers: Paul Bressloff, Sophie Deneve, Brent Doiron, Stefano Fusi, Joel Zylberberg (University of Colorado, School of Medicine) Program Committee https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/committees.html <https://www.math.uh.edu/~zpkilpat/icmns2017/committees.html> We hope to see you in Boulder this May! All the best Zachary Kilpatrick (University of Colorado) Julijana Gjorgjieva (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research) Robert Rosenbaum (University of Notre Dame)

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Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon 2017
by Yiyin Zhou 19 Jan '17

19 Jan '17

Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon 2017 FFBH 2017 <http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/hackathons/ffbh/2017>March 12, 2017Columbia University, New York, NY 10027 We are pleased to announce the 2nd Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon (FFBO 2017). This hackathon will feature the Fruit Fly Brain Observatory (FFBO) and its key components NeuroNLP and NeuroGFX. The former allows for exploring fruit fly brain data using plain English queries, and the latter facilitates the modeling and execution of such brain circuits. Brief tutorials will be given on the usage of the FFBO as well as developing new tools/features in FFBO. The hackathon is aimed at three main groups of participants: neurobiologists, modelers and software engineers. The goal of the hackathon is to bring together these three groups of participants to create new ideas to develop, use and improve the FFBO platform towards developing executable model of the fruit fly brain. The Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon is organized in conjunction with the Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuit, Memory and Computation on March 13-14, 2017. Participants of the hackathon are welcome to attend the workshop. Registration is free but all participants have to register <https://ffbo17.eventbrite.com/> (*https://ffbo17.eventbrite.com/ <https://ffbo17.eventbrite.com/>*). Organizers: Paul Richmond, Department of Computer Science, University of Sheffield Adam Tomkins, Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, University of Sheffield Nikul Ukani, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University Chung-Heng Yeh, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University Yiyin Zhou, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University More information can be found on the hackathon website: http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/hackathons/ffbh/2017 ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Best Regards, Yiyin Zhou, on behalf of the organizers

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Postdoc in Medical Data Science
by Philipp Berens 19 Jan '17

19 Jan '17

The lab of Philipp Berens (www.berenslab.org) at the Institute for Ophthalmic Research (www.eye-tuebingen.de) at the Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen is offering a position as Postdoctoral Researcher in _Medical Data Science for Ophthalmology_ to be filled as soon as possible, with funding for up to 4 years. The successful candidate will perform research at the interface of data science and medicine with the goal to advance statistical methods for predicting disease onset or identifying risk factors by combining classical epidemiological approaches with recent developments in deep learning. The work will be done in close collaboration with the lab of Marius Ueffing and the ZEISS Vision Lab at the Institute for Ophthalmic Research and will contribute to a better understanding of ophthalmic diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration. The Berens lab conducts research in computational neuroscience, data science and biostatistics with a focus on developing tools to integrate various data sources. We have recently developed a framework based on deep neural networks for detecting diabetic retinopathy from fundus images modeling the decision uncertainty of the classifier (https://doi.org/10.1101/084210) Tübingen is home to a vibrant machine learning community with ample opportunity for interaction with researchers at both the University as well as the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems. The Institute of Ophthalmic Research is part of the Center of Ophthalmology, covering various aspects of ophthalmic research from basic retinal neuroscience to the development of gene therapy and neuroprosthetics. We offer employment with a salary and social benefits based on the collective agreement for public service employees in the academic and science sector, TV-L. The Eberhard-Karls-University of Tübingen promotes gender equality and therefore particularly encourages female scientists to apply. Preferential status will be given to handicapped persons, if equally qualified. Requirements: • PhD in machine learning, statistics or related fields • Experience with medical data • Programming experience in Python and R • Strong publication record and scientific independence Interested applicants should contact Dr. Philipp Berens (philipp.berens(a)uni-tuebingen.de) providing a curriculum vitae, a one-page description of past research experience & future research interests, a one-page description of the motivation for applying to this position and names of at least two people that could provide letters of reference. Please compile your application in one single PDF-file and add [Data Science Postdoc] to the subject line. -- University of Tübingen Institute for Ophthalmic Research http://www.berenslab.org NEW PHONE NUMBER: +49-7071-2988833

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3 years funded PhD in oscillatory behaviour in Alzheimer’s disease to establish biomarkers, Deadline 31st of January
by Eirini Mavritsaki 19 Jan '17

19 Jan '17

Dear all, We are advertising a 3 year funded PhD project in "Investigating oscillatory behaviour in Alzheimer’s disease to establish biomarkers: an EEG and computational modelling programme of PhD study" Successful applicants for our funded PhD studentships will receive a tax-free research stipend that tracks UK Research Council rates (currently £14,296) and a fee waiver to the value of Home / EU student PhD fees (currently £4,120). Closing date for applications Tuesday 31 January 2017 at 23:59. This is a transdisciplinary STEAM Project This proposed PhD work follows high profile research by the University of Birmingham team (Prof. Kim Shapiro, Prof. Howard Bowman and Mr Ali Mazaheri). The project is collaborative work between Birmingham City University (Dr Eirini Mavritsak) and University of Birmingham (Prof. Kim Shapiro and Prof. Howard Bowman). The University of Birmingham team has access to ERP data of a semantic anomaly and word repetition task (Olichney et al, 2002). In the original analysis of the data Olichney and colleagues, the N400 component was analysed, which is related to semantic manipulation. Olichney and colleagues found evidence of N400 abnormalities in mild cognitive impairment patients, which predicted later progression to Alzhemier’s. We plan to simulate this data and the changes observed in this data by developing a computational model that is based on the sSoTS (Mavritsaki, Heinke, Humphreys and Deco, 2011) model. The synaptic currents that sSoTS contains will allow us to extract the ERP profile and simulate the above described experiment. In addition to that sSoTS model has already successfully simulated visual search outcomes for patients with Alzheimer’s (Mavritsaki and Humphreys, 2013). The project is separated into two phases: in phase 1, we plan to develop the computational model to simulate controls and mild cognitive impairment patients and in phase 2 we are planning to extend the model to allow us to predict the development of the disease based on identified biomarkers. The successful applicant will join the Centre for Applied Psychological Research (CAP Research) within the Department of Psychology at Birmingham City University. CAP Research is part of a vibrant and rapidly expanding research community, which offers applicants with an excellent opportunity to develop their research career. The applicant has the opportunity to have teaching experience, to participate in research seminars and to co-supervise undergraduate projects. The successful candidate will also be expected to attend the weekly meetings of the University of Birmingham research team. You can find further details on studying for a PhD and details of how to apply on the following link http://www.bcu.ac.uk/courses/social-sciences Candidate Qualification and Specifications: Essential Ø The applicant should hold a good undergraduate honours degree (First or 2:1) in psychology or related area. Ø The applicant should have experience of computational modelling, evidenced by previous work or masters degree. Ø A demonstrated understanding of research methods is essential (as evidenced by degree transcript grades for research methods and dissertation modules). Ø Experience in C++ and Matlab. Desirable Ø A Masters’ degree in research methods, psychology or computational modelling Ø Experience in EEG analysis Contact: Eirini Mavritsaki, Ph.D., CPsychol Email: eirini.mavritsaki(a)bcu.ac.uk<mailto:eirini.mavritsaki@bcu.ac.uk> Best regards, Eirini Mavritsaki ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Eirini Mavritsaki, PhD, CPsychol Senior Lecturer in Cognitive Psychology Director of Research in the School of Social Sciences Department of Psychology Faculty of Business Law and Social Sciences Birmingham City University The Curzon Building 4 Cardigan Street Birmingham B4 7BD eirini.mavritsaki(a)bcu.ac.uk<mailto:eirini.mavritsaki@bcu.ac.uk> 0121 331 6361 Special Issue in Frontiers 'Neuropsychology through the lenses of computational modelling' http://fron.tiers.in/go/r2e3M4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Postdoctoral fellowship in computational neuroscience at Harvard
by Jan Drugowitsch 18 Jan '17

18 Jan '17

Dear all, Jan Drugowitsch (Department of Neurobiology, Harvard) and Sam Gershman (Department of Psychology, Harvard) are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to work on a project combining computational modeling, psychophysics, and clinical studies. The project focuses on the neural basis of visual structure discovery, using motion perception as a model system. Our goal is to understand how neural circuits represent and reason about complex combinatorial structures, and how these neural circuits break down in autism. The postdoctoral fellow's main focus is the computational modeling component of the project. The Drugowitsch and Gershman labs are located in the Longwood medical area and Harvard’s Cambridge campus, respectively. Harvard, and the Boston area in general, has an excellent neuroscience community and programs in engineering, statistics, and related fields. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a quantitative discipline and strong background in Bayesian modeling and computational neuroscience. Experience with visual psychophysics experiments is desirable but not essential. Applicants should send a CV and statement of research interests to Jan Drugowitsch (Jan_Drugowitsch(a)hms.harvard.edu) The initial appointment is for one year with the expectation of extension given satisfactory performance. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Jan Drugowitsch will be attending the the Computational and Systems Neuroscience meeting on February 23-28 to interview potential candidates. Best regards, Jan Drugowitsch Assistant Professor in Neurobiology Harvard Medical School

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Excellence workshop ''Dynamical Network States, Criticality and Cortical Function'' (March 25-28, 2017 in Germany)
by David Rotermund 18 Jan '17

18 Jan '17

We would like to invite you to participate in our excellence workshop “Dynamical Network States, Criticality and Cortical Function”. It will take place March 25-28, 2017 at the Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg in Delmenhorst (near Bremen, Germany). Please feel free to forward the following information to anyone who you think may be interested in attending our workshop. Confirmed Speakers John Beggs, Matthias Bethge, Stefan Bornholdt, Mauro Copelli, Lucilla de Arcangelis, Thilo Gross, Michael Herrmann, Anna Levina, Klaus Linkenkaer-Hansen, Paolo Massobrio, Ruben Moreno-Bote, Eilif Benjamin Müller, Dietmar Plenz, Viola Priesemann, Silvia Scarpetta, Woodrow Shew, Oren Shriki, Thilo Womelsdorf. Workshop description ==================== Current information on the workshop can be found on the website http://www.h-w-k.de/index.php?id=2240 Soon we will update this web-page with the program . Cortical information processing relies heavily on the collective dynamics of neurons and networks distributed over many brain areas. A key concept for understanding this process is the idea that networks operate near a critical state, which offers several potential benefits for computation and information processing. However, there is still a large gap between research on criticality and understanding brain function: For example, * biological cortical networks are not homogeneous but highly structured, * they are not in a state of spontaneous activation but strongly driven by changing external stimuli, and * they process information with respect to a concrete behavioral goal. Moreover, critical states are just one side of the medal, since there are other concepts of how collective dynamics enables, shapes, and controls information processing; i.e. actively provide an operating point for cortical computation: To name just a few, there are * balance between excitation and inhibition, * temporal coordination and multiplexing, and * task-dependent computation and signal routing (selective attention). Understanding cortical function will only be possible by putting these conceptual ideas into a unifying framework and critically test them against experimental evidence. In this workshop we will bring together experts representing different approaches for understanding the collective dynamics of cortical networks and their implications for information processing. Hereby we will focus on work with a concrete link to cortical physiology, structure or dynamics observed in experiments. Our goals are to establish novel links between communities, concepts and methods and to identify key problems that have to be addressed by future theoretical and experimental work. Registration ============ The general costs of the workshop will be subsidized by the 'Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg Institute for Advanced Study' (www.h-w-k.de) and by the BMBF (Bernstein Award Udo Ernst). However, in order to cover all costs, we ask for a registration fee in the amount of € 50,00 for PhD students and € 100,00 for postdocs/professors. Unfortunately, we cannot cover your costs for accommodation and travelling. Participation in the workshop will be limited to about 60 attendees (20 main speakers, 40 postdocs + PhD students). In case you are interested in participating, we would ask you to send your reply to Agnes Janssen ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de. We can also arrange hotel reservations for you. Poster session ============== Besides the talks of the main speakers and plenty of time for discussions, there will be a poster session. You are invited to present a poster, in which case please send the title and abstract to Agnes Janssen. Again, we would greatly appreciate having you at our workshop. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Yours sincerely Udo Ernst and Nergis Tömen

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Post-Doc position at UCL Ear Institute: How the brain detects patterns in sound sequences
by Marcus Pearce 18 Jan '17

18 Jan '17

Dear All (with apologies for cross-posting), *A postdoctoral research associate position*is available at the UCL Ear Institute’s ‘Auditory Cognitive Neuroscience Lab’ to work on a project entitled "How the brain detects patterns in sound sequences". The project will be supervised by Dr Maria Chait and conducted in collaboration with Dr. Marcus Pearce (Queen Mary University, London) and colleagues at the UCL Wellcome Trust centre for neuroimaging. The post is funded for 34 months in the first instance and involves a combination of behavioural, computational, eye tracking, and functional brain imaging (EEG, MEG, fMRI) experiments in humans. For more information about the post please see the lab website: *http://www.ucl.ac.uk/ear/research/chaitlab/vacancies* The Ear Institute is a leading interdisciplinary centre for hearing research in Europe, situated within one of the strongest neuroscience communities in the world at University College London *Key Requirements* The successful applicant will have a PhD in neuroscience or a neuroscience-related discipline and proven ability to conduct high-quality original research and prepare results for publication. Essential skills include excellent time-management and organizational ability; proficiency in computer programming and good interpersonal, oral and written communication skills. Previous experience with functional brain imaging, neural data analysis, psychophysical assessment, and/or auditory science or acoustics would be desirable. *Further Details* You should apply for this post (Ref #: 1618836) through UCL's online recruitment website, www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs <http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs>, where you can download a job description and person specifications. *Closing Date for applications is: *1 Feb 2017 *For an informal discussion please contact Dr. Maria Chait (m.chait(a)ucl.ac.uk).* Maria Chait PhD m.chait(a)ucl.ac.uk <mailto:m.chait@ucl.ac.uk> Reader in Auditory Cognitive Neuroscience Lab site: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/ear/research/chaitlab/ UCL Ear Institute 332 Gray's Inn Road London WC1X 8EE

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Faculty position in Computational Neuroscience - open rank
by Jorn Diedrichsen 18 Jan '17

18 Jan '17

Western University (Ontario, Canada) is inviting applications from exceptional investigators at all career levels for a probationary (tenure-track) position at the rank of Assistant or Associate or a tenured faculty position at the rank of Associate or Professor in Computational Neuroscience. This appointment is in association with BrainsCAN (http://www.uwo.ca/brainscan) a $66M initiative funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund at Western University, and will be the first of two new positions in this area. For further particulars, please see: http://www.uwo.ca/bmi/media/CompNeuroScienceJan2017.pdf Jörn Diedrichsen Western Research Chair Brain Mind Institute Department of Computer Science Department of Statistics Email: jdiedric(a)uwo.ca<mailto:jdiedric@uwo.ca> Tel: 1-519-661-2111 x86994

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Funded PhD/postdoc position "Neural basis for motivation and perseverence in behavior"
by Gjorgjieva, Julijana 17 Jan '17

17 Jan '17

A funded PhD position "Neural basis for motivation and perseverence in behavior” is available in the group of Julijana Gjorgjieva, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research (Frankfurt, Germany) and the Technical University of Munich (Munich, Germany). We will also consider strong postdoctoral applicants. Recommended application deadline: February 15, 2017. Applicants will be considered until the position is filled. The project is a collaboration with the experimental lab of Ilona Grunwald Kadow (Technical University of Munich) who studies the neural circuits underlying sensory processing and decision making in Drosophila. We are two young and highly-driven labs with many interesting ideas and synergistic interactions. Have you ever wondered how you came to like the taste of coffee? If you don’t like blue cheese, would you still consider eating some if you were very hungry? We want to understand how behavior changes in response to different sensory experiences and how they are imprinted as memories. The project aims to uncover circuit principles and behavioral readouts of motivation and persistence in the presence of diverse stimuli of different valences (appetitive of aversive) and as a function of internal state (e.g. hunger). To achieve this, we use a combination of theory, computational modeling and cutting-edge experiments. Applicants should have strong quantitative background (in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or related fields), some experience in programming and data analysis, and a desire to develop cutting-edge experimental techniques. Previous background in behavioral analysis is a plus! The position offers the possibility to live in two of the most exciting cities in Germany and Europe. It will be based at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, with frequent visits to the Technical University of Munich in Munich. The position also offers the possibility of behavioral analysis and in vivo multiphoton imaging experiments to be performed in the collaborating Grunwald Kadow lab: http://www.neuro.wzw.tum.de To apply, please email the following: 1. A curriculum vitae 2. A motivation letter (if a PhD student) or a description of research interests (if a postdoc). Please explain your scientific interests, what are you strengths when working on a problem, why us? 3. Contact details for 2-3 referees 4. A written sample of scientific research, e.g. a manuscript, thesis, or code Please feel free to contact us with informal enquiries: gjorgjieva(a)brain.mpg.de http://www.cns.wzw.tum.de ----------------------------------------- Julijana Gjorgjieva, PhD Research Group Leader Max Planck Institute for Brain Research Max-von-Laue-Str. 4, Frankfurt Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Technical University of Munich, WZW Freising office: +49 69 850033 3600 http://cns.wzw.tum.de

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Post-doc position in Computational Neuroscience available at University of Sussex
by Thomas Nowotny 17 Jan '17

17 Jan '17

Dear all, A post-doc position in Computational Neuroscience is available at the University of Sussex for 20 months to be filled as soon as possible. You will be joining the Odor Objects project (http://www.odor-objects.org/) in which we are investigating how animals interpret the complex odor plumes of chemicals in the air to identify sources of odors and distinguish them. Odor Objects is supported by the Human Frontiers Science Program (www.hfsp.org/<http://www.hfsp.org/>) and combines 4 international groups in Konstanz, Germany (physiology), Tempe, Arizona (behavior), Tokyo, Japan (robotics) and Brighton, UK (computational models). If you are joining us at Sussex your work will involve computational modelling of brain networks and data analysis of related data from the experimental partners. Models will then be used to design bio-mimetic controllers which will be tested by our partners in Japan. We are looking for a talented post-doc with an interest in computational work. Applicants from all science disciplines are welcome but essential skills are the ability to program, mathematical skills, e.g. to be able to apply dynamical systems analysis, and creative scientific thinking. The bulk of the work will be carried out on the beautiful Falmer campus of the University of Sussex at the outskirts of the lively South Coast town of Brighton. As part of the project you will travel to the project partners worldwide. There are many opportunities for further interactions at Sussex beyond the project, e.g. with the Brains on Board project (BrainsOnBoard<http://gow.epsrc.ac.uk/NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=EP/P006094/1)>), and a wide variety of Neuroscience research in Sussex Neuroscience (www.sussex.ac.uk/sussexneuroscience/<http://www.sussex.ac.uk/sussexneuroscience/>). For more details and to apply, please go to http://www.sussex.ac.uk/aboutus/jobs/1626 . There is an initial closing date of 1 February 2017 but we will continue searching until the position is filled. Best regards, Thomas -- Prof Thomas Nowotny Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange School of Engineering and Informatics University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ, UK Phone: +441273678593 FAX: +441273877873

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3-year fully-funded PhD in motor learning and control
by Joseph Galea (School of Psychology) (ID=*****11) 17 Jan '17

17 Jan '17

Dear all, The Galea lab (josephgalea.weebly.com<http://josephgalea.weebly.com/>) in the School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham (UK) has a fully-funded (for UK/EU nationals) 3-year PhD position beginning October, 2017 funded by the ERC starting grant: MotMotLearn. Motor learning (the ability of the brain to learn and update how an action is executed) is a fundamental process which influences many aspects of our lives such as learning to walk during childhood; the day-to-day behavioural adjustments required as an adult or in healthy ageing; and the rehabilitation process following an illness or injury. Despite the impact to society, it has proved extremely difficult to develop interventions that significantly enhance human motor learning. Therefore, devising protocols which optimise motor learning is a state-of-the-art research question that promises to deliver scientific, clinical and societal impact. Seeking reward and avoiding punishment are powerful factors in motivating humans to alter behaviour during cognition-based learning (selecting which action to perform), with sensitivity to reward and punishment being biased by the availability of dopamine in the brain. Intriguingly, reward and punishment are also known to affect generic motor learning (deciding how an action is executed) tasks which involve multiple underlying mechanisms. However to establish their potential for optimizing motor learning, we must understand how explicit reward- and punishment-based motivational feedback impact motor learning systems with unique computational and anatomical features. Using a combination of behavioural analysis, computational modelling, genetics and brain imaging, this PhD project will contribute to the first systems-based account of how reward, punishment and dopamine influence motor learning. Specifically, the successful candidate will investigate how motor memories are consolidated across multiple days and the influence reward has on this process. It will further examine whether memory retention can be enhanced through reward-based implicit cues and if this process can be captured with EEG. Dr Galea is seeking an intelligent and enthusiastic student with experience either in motor control/learning, computational neuroscience and/or EEG. The ideal candidate will have experience with programming in matlab, collecting data (from participants) on behavioural tasks and some understanding of statistics. A masters and/or research assistant experience would be ideal but not compulsory. Psychology at the University of Birmingham www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/psychology/research/index.aspx<http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/psychology/research/index.aspx> If interested please email your CV to: j.galea(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:j.galea@bham.ac.uk>

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Connectomics
by Francesca Martini/NSAS 16 Jan '17

16 Jan '17

I would like to post in the mailing list about the following Workshop: Advanced Course: Connectomics. April 22-26, 2017. Neuroscience School of Advanced Studies Siena, Italy. Coordinator: Sean Hill (Switzerland) This Advanced Course will focus on multi-scale aspects of the connectome and will cover the cellular basis of connectivity; large-scale data gathering and data analysis of whole brain connectivity across scales; data integration of multimodal connectome data; data-driven computational modeling and simulation at different scales of brain circuitry; the development of the connectome and its link to behavior and neurological disorders; predicting whole brain dynamics from the connectome; the relationship between the connectome and the diversity of brain states and experiences. Further information: <http://www.nsas.it/courses-workshops/advanced-courses/connectomics/> http://www.nsas.it/courses-workshops/advanced-courses/connectomics/ Kind regards, Francesca The Course Secretariat Neuroscience School of Advanced Studies Certosa di Pontignano Via di Pontignano 5, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Siena. Italy Tel. +39.0577.146.0003

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2 postdoc positions open in Champalimaud, Lisbon
by Cristina Chavarrías 13 Jan '17

13 Jan '17

*Call for Post-Doctoral Fellows in the Neuroplasticity & Neural Activity MRI-Lab * Two fully-funded post-doc positions are available immediately in the Neuroplasticity & Neural Activity MRI-Lab <http://neuro.fchampalimaud.org/en/research/investigators/research-groups/gr…> at the Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme (CNP), Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown in Lisbon, Portugal. We are looking for top-tier, highly-motivated Post-Doctoral Fellows who have a strong interest in understanding how underlying neural activity is related with fMRI signals. The focus is on performing high-end BOLD and nonBOLD fMRI with simultaneous calcium recordings and/or electrophysiology in rodents, using optogenetics for pretargeting specific populations of neurons. In particular, we aim to hire one person with extensive experience in* in vivo* calcium recordings / imaging and/or electrophysiology and one person with extensive experience in fMRI analyses. An excellent, well-documented track-record is imperative. To apply, please send the following items to noam.shemesh(a)neuro.fchampalimaud.org: 1. Cover Letter stating your interests 2. A full CV, including list of publications 3. Names and email addresses of at least 3 references. Successful applicants will receive full funding and a private/national health insurance. Call deadline: *Feb 28th 2017*. ------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------- The Shemesh Lab in Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme (CNP) <http://neuro.fchampalimaud.org/en/research/investigators/research-groups/gr…> investigates neural activity, neuroplasticity, and how they elicit behavioral changes *in vivo*. These questions are interrogated in the context of normal processes (development, learning…), as well as in neuropsychiatric and neurodegeneration animal models of disease. Our approach involves a plethora of advanced methods, mainly revolving around state-of-the-art preclinical MRI/MRS, augmented by simultaneous ancillary techniques (optogenetics, calcium recordings, advanced behavioral testing). One of the main goals in the Lab is to develop nonBOLD fMRI methods, which will report on neural activity much more directly compared to conventional fMRI. This ERC-funded Lab benefits from a cutting-edge, ultrahigh field 16.4T scanner, as well as a 9.4T scanner equipped with two 4-element array cryoprobes (for mice and rats, respectively), another 1T scanner for basic scanning and testing in more biomedical settings, and lasers for optogenetics / calcium recordings; the Lab also has a fully equipped surgery room, space for performing extensive behavioural studies and access to one of Europe’s largest vivaria and ancillary platforms for histology, microscopy, transgenics and viruses, among others. CNP is situated within the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown <http://www.fchampalimaud.org/en/>, a private, non-profit foundation residing on Lisbon’s waterfront, right where the River Tejo meets the Atlantic Ocean. CCU provides a stunning and productive working environment, harboring a Neuroscience department for basic research, and a clinical centre for treating cancer patients with pioneering methods. This unique blend of basic research and clinical practice under the same roof, which actively encourages collaborations and exchange of ideas, results in a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating atmosphere. Post-Doctoral salaries are very competitive vis-à-vis Lisbon costs of living, and post-docs further benefit from health insurance.

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Towards solving the Hard Problem of Consciousness
by Stephen Grossberg 12 Jan '17

12 Jan '17

Dear Colleagues, I am writing to call your attention to my article about the Hard Problem of Consciousness. The results have enabled me to explain lots of psychological and neurobiological data about normal subjects and clinical patients for which I can find no other explanations, let alone explanations as part of an emerging unified theory. The article is published Open Access so anyone can read it. Grossberg, S. (2017). Towards solving the Hard Problem of Consciousness: The varieties of brain resonances and the conscious experiences that they support Neural Networks 87, 38–95 http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0893608016301800 <http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0893608016301800> Best, Steve Stephen Grossberg http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Grossberg <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Grossberg> http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=3BIV70wAAAAJ&hl=en <http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=3BIV70wAAAAJ&hl=en>https://youtu.be/9n5AnvFur7I <https://youtu.be/9n5AnvFur7I> Wang Professor of Cognitive and Neural Systems Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Psychological & Brain Sciences, and Biomedical Engineering Director, Center for Adaptive Systems http://cns.bu.edu/~steve <http://cns.bu.edu/~steve> steve(a)bu.edu <mailto:steve@bu.edu>

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Fancy a change in 2017? Faculty posts in the UK...
by John Spencer (PSY) 12 Jan '17

12 Jan '17

Greetings Colleagues, The School of Psychology at the University of East Anglia (https://www.uea.ac.uk/psychology) has 5 faculty positions available at the Lecturer (Assistant Prof) / Senior Lecturer/Reader (Associate Prof) / and Professor levels. This is part of a major expansion of the School; as such, we welcome interest from research teams who might offer concentrated strength in a single area. The School of Psychology is the newest school at UEA, and the first new School of Psychology to be formed in a research-intensive university in the UK for many years. These posts signal UEA's commitment to investment in world-class research, forming part of an ambitious expansion plan to create a world-leading faculty bridging disciplines to yield deep understanding of the processes that underlie and organise human behaviour. We are currently building a strength in the area of systems neuroscience, including a variety of imaging approaches as well as computational neuroscience. UEA has fantastic research facilities (fNIRS, fMRI, TMS, EEG, eye-tracking, virtual reality), a lovely campus, and it is situated in Norwich, UK - a wonderful place to live, with a castle, cathedrals, restaurants, and pubs. If you have any questions about the posts, do let me know. Details can be found at: https://www.uea.ac.uk/hr/vacancies/academic/-/asset_publisher/h0n2rDvu3ug8/… Cheers, John Spencer John P. Spencer, PhD Professor School of Psychology, Room 0.09 Lawrence Stenhouse Building, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ United Kingdom Email: j.spencer(a)uea.ac.uk<mailto:j.spencer@uea.ac.uk> School website: http://www.uea.ac.uk/psy Telephone 01603 593968 [cid:image001.png@01D09851.EF67E200] UK Top 15 (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017) UK Top 5 for Student Satisfaction (National Student Survey, 2005-2016) World Top 1% (Times Higher Education World Rankings 2016-17) World Top 100 for Research Excellence (Leiden Ranking 2016)

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Open postdoctoral position in fMRI data analysis at the California Institute of Technology
by Ueli Rutishauser 12 Jan '17

12 Jan '17

*Post-doctoral position for fMRI data analysis at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech)* We invite applicants with strong expertise in machine learning and functional connectivity analysis of resting-state fMRI data to apply for a post-doctoral position in Caltech’s NIH Conte Center for the Neurobiology of Social Decision-Making (conte.caltech.edu) The research will be in a highly collaborative environment and include exploration of multimodal data encompassing rs-fMRI, structural MRI, psychological assessments, eyetracking data, as well as lesion data and intracranial electrophysiology, with the overall aim to investigate the neural underpinnings of individual differences. Candidates should have a recent PhD in systems, cognitive, or computational neuroscience with a track-record of first-author publications. Strong programming skills (using Matlab or Python), data handling skills, statistical literacy and fMRI software expertise (Freesurfer, AFNI/FSL/SPM, Connectome Workbench) are essential. Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants should submit a CV, including a list of publications, a brief description of research interests and analysis skills, and a list of three references to Ralph Adolphs, radolphs(a)caltech.edu.

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3 neuroinformatics positions in the Vogels Group at Oxford University
by timvogels＠gmail.com 12 Jan '17

12 Jan '17

Dear all, We are opening three positions (2 postdocs and a technician) in my lab to continue the work on icg.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk <http://icg.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk/>. Our first paper is still in revision, but its pretty close to out now, so if we’re lucky, at some point it will make it out into the world. You can find a preprint at http://www.biorxiv.org/content/early/2016/06/16/058685 <http://www.biorxiv.org/content/early/2016/06/16/058685>. If you are interested (or you know someone who would be interested) in any of the open positions, please find the first two ads with information on how to apply here: bit.ly/2i8zKQU <http://bit.ly/2i8zKQU> and here: bit.ly/2jkz4cn <http://bit.ly/2jkz4cn> Deadline is the 10th of February 2017 but we will keep looking until we find suitable applicants. The starting date is negotiable. We are looking for people who can code up a storm, love neurobiology and neuroinformatics and work well in a team environment. Successful candidates will work with the other members of the @icgenalogy project within the Vogels lab, http://www.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk/~timv <http://www.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk/~timv> at the cncb.ox.ac.uk <http://cncb.ox.ac.uk/> at the University of Oxford. We will collaborate with https://senselab.med.yale.edu/ModelDB/ <https://senselab.med.yale.edu/ModelDB/> and hope to integrate also with http://www.opensourcebrain.org/ <http://www.opensourcebrain.org/>, http://www.treestoolbox.org/index.html <http://www.treestoolbox.org/index.html>, and any other open source brain simulation databases that wants to coordinate their efforts. Below, please find additional information for the posts, but do feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions. Applications from women and minority groups are encouraged. All the best, Tim Vogels ------------------ Prof Tim Vogels Sir Henry Dale Research Fellow, Associate Professor Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour and Oriel College Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics University of Oxford Mansfield Road Oxford, OX1 3SR http://cncb.ox.ac.uk <http://cncb.ox.ac.uk/> http://www.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk/~timv <http://www.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk/~timv> Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Computational Neuroscience Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, Tinsley Building, Mansfield Road, Oxford Grade 7.1 £31,076 p.a. We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to support and expand ongoing neuroinformatics research (https://icg.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk) undertaken in the Vogels Group at the Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour. The candidate will contribute to the development of approaches for the quantitative analysis, comparison and categorisation of published neuroscientific models and experimental data, aiding in field-wide standardization of experimentally-constrained modelling. The researcher will be expected to carry out simulations of morphologically detailed neuron models and neuronal networks in the NEURON simulation environment, and should be familiar with, and able to implement, standard models of ion channel function. Additionally, he/she will develop neuroinformatics infrastructure for the storage, classification and visualisation of experimental and simulated data. The successful candidate will also perform general laboratory duties to include keeping accurate records of work carried out, maintaining adequate levels of general laboratory consumables, to take part in and make regular reports at laboratory meetings and to share responsibility for general data management of the lab. The candidate will also be expected to guide and support the progress of the Graduate students in the lab. Some ad hoc teaching may also be required. The successful candidate must have a demonstrable academic interest in both computer science and the neurosciences with a PhD in neuroscience, computer science or a related discipline. They will have experience with object oriented programming, be familiar with Git and team-based software development and have laboratory experience in computational neuroscience, neuroinformatics and computer science. They should have good written and oral communication skills and be able to work as part of team and to collaborate with other colleagues on a wide range of projects. The successful candidate will be based at the Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, Tinsley Building, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA. This is a full-time, fixed-term post until March 2020 funded by the BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council). The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 10 February 2017. Lab Technician Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, Tinsley Building, Mansfield Road, Oxford Grade 5: £24,565 p.a. We are seeking to appoint a Research Technician to support and expand ongoing neuroinformatics research (https://icg.neurotheory.ox.ac.uk) undertaken in the Vogels Group at the Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour. The candidate will contribute to the development of approaches for the quantitative analysis, comparison and categorisation of published neuroscientific models and experimental data, aiding in field-wide standardisation of experimentally-constrained modelling. The technician will be responsible for the curation and maintenance of a large database of published neuroscientific models and simulation data. For the expansion of the database, he/she will be expected to extract and annotate data from publications, as well as manipulate code for neuroscientific models to comply to standardized specifications. This includes the conversion of existing code between common neuronal simulator frameworks (e.g. Neuron, Moose, and Genesis). The research technician will preferably have extensive experience in neuroscience and/or computer science, or a related discipline such as maths, physics or biophysics. The post has high potential for training in neuroscience and would be an excellent starting point for a career in computational neuroscience or neuroinformatics. The candidate will be expected to work in close collaboration with all team members. The successful candidate will also perform general laboratory duties to include keeping accurate records of work carried out, maintaining adequate levels of general laboratory consumables, to take part in and make regular reports at laboratory meetings and to share responsibility for general data management of the lab. This post is funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council for a fixed-term of 3 years. The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 10th February 2017.

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TMBMC - Shannon Centennial Special Issue Part 1
by Dimitrov, Alex 11 Jan '17

11 Jan '17

Please, take a look at the TMBMC issue that we edited. A second volume is coming up soon… View this email in your browser<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__us12.campaign-2Darchive…> [https://gallery.mailchimp.com/660c2fc8403470cea02de0f18/images/6690283a-215…]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications is proud to announce that our Special Issue on Biological Applications of Information Theory in Honor of Claude Shannon’s Centennial—Part 1 is now live on IEEE Xplore<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…>. Within the issue, you'll find the following 8 papers: * Mechanisms of information filtering in neural systems (Invited Paper; Linder) * Noise Filtering and Prediction in Biological Signaling Networks (Invited Paper; Hathcock, Sheehy, Weisenberger, Ilker, and Hinczewski) * The Use of Rate Distortion Theory to Evaluate Biological Signaling Pathways (Invited Paper; Iglesias) * Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics of Complex Systems, III: Noneqilibrium Thermodynamics of Self-Replication Kinetics (Saakian and Qian) * Inferring Biological Networks by Sparse Identification of Nonlinear Dynamics (Mangan, Brunton, Proctor and Kutz) * Info-Clustering: A Mathematical Theory for Data Clustering (Chan, Al-Bashabsheh, Kaced, Zhou and Liu) * Fundamental Bounds for Sequence Reconstruction from Nanopore Sequencers (Magner, Duda, Szpankowski and Grama) * Inference of Causal Information Flow in Collective Animal Behavior (Lord, Sun, Ouellette and Bollt) Special Issue Guest Editors Prof. Alexander G. Dimitrov Department of Mathematics and Statistics Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience Washington State University, Vancouver, Washington, USA Prof. Faramarz Fekri Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA Prof. Aurel Lazar Department of Electrical Engineering Columbia University, New York, New York, USA Prof. Stefan M. Moser Signal and Information Processing Lab (ISI) ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Hsinchu, Taiwan Prof. Peter J. Thomas* Department of Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Statistics Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department of Biology Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA *corresponding guest editor The Special Issue on Biological Applications of Information Theory in Honor of Claude Shannon’s Centennial—Part 2 is forthcoming. Sincerely, Christina Tang-Bernas Editorial Assistant IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications Copyright © 2017 IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you have attended a TMBMC-related event, are affiliated with TMBMC and/or their editors, published in TMBMC, or opted in at the TMBMC website. Our mailing address is: IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications 3737 Watt Way PHE 506 Los Angeles, CA 90089 Add us to your address book<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> or unsubscribe from this list<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> This email was sent to alex.dimitrov(a)vancouver.wsu.edu<mailto:alex.dimitrov@vancouver.wsu.edu> why did I get this?<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> unsubscribe from this list<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> update subscription preferences<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__mbmc.us12.list-2Dmanage…> IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications · 3737 Watt Way · PHE 506 · Los Angeles, CA 90089 · USA [mail Marketing Powered by MailChimp]<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.mailchimp.com_monke…>

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PhD position Warwick University - neuroimaging genetics for economic and strategic choice
by Massaro, Sebastiano 11 Jan '17

11 Jan '17

[Apologies for cross-postings. Please feel free to circulate the post to your network. Thanks] PhD Position at Warwick University Neuroimaging genetics for economic and strategic choice [Competitive funding for UK/EU candidates only] Applications are invited for a full-time PhD position at Warwick University on "neuroimaging genetics for economic and strategic choice" commencing in October 2017. The project will be developed under the supervision of Prof. Feng (Warwick and Fudan) and Dr. Massaro (Warwick), at the Department of Computer Science and Warwick Business School, respectively. This project is part of an ongoing research endeavour developed with Prof. Rustichini at the University of Minnesota, Economics, and may involve other Departments and scholars at Warwick. The candidate will be based at Warwick University; due to the nature of project may be required to occasionally travel to Minneapolis and/or Shanghai. The project This PhD project undertakes a multidisciplinary approach to advance the current understanding of the biological basis of human economic and strategic decision making. The overarching question of this PhD project is: How do genes, brain activity, and behaviour relate to one another to explain the underpinnings of economic and strategic choice? Behavioral, physiological, structural and functional brain imaging, as well as genetic data will be analyzed in an integrated way to identify the biological origins and pathways expressed in brain activity and associated to specific economic and strategic tasks. Depending on their background, the candidate will join this project by contributing to the development of the genetic (GWAS), statistical (classic and Bayesian), neuroimaging (fMRI), and/or computational aspects of the project. Candidate specification We seek to recruit a highly motivated student with very strong numeracy and/or experimental skills. The ideal candidate will have a first class (or equivalent) BSc or preferably MSc degree (awarded/expected) from a reputed University in a discipline relevant to the project (i.e., mathematics, physics, computer science, cognitive sciences, genetics, neuroscience, bioinformatics, economics). Interest in the study of strategic decision-making and neuroeconomics, and former experience with genetic analyses, fMRI data analysis, and/or computational neuroscience methods are desirable. Proficiency in oral and written English is required according to the University Regulations (http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/english/<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=70842&type=184&DID=22…>). How to apply Candidates interested in this project shall initially contact Dr. Massaro via email (sebastiano.massaro(a)wbs.ac.uk) including a copy of their CVs (with the name of 2 referees), and specifying if self-funded or seeking a scholarship, by the 7th of February 2017. Following this, shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an informal interview. Pending a positive outcome, if seeking funding, the candidate will then be endorsed for application to the highly-competitive Bridges Programme (see below). This does not guarantee funding/placement in the Bridges Programme. Funding Shortlisted candidates seeking funding will be endorsed for application to the Bridges Programme at the University of Warwick. The Bridges Programme aims to provide PhD students with deep knowledge of contemporary research questions in the social sciences, and rigorous training in the mathematical and computational approaches needed to answer them. The Trust has a particular interest in supporting UK or EU students. More information can be found here (View Website<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=70842&type=184&DID=22…>) Other UK/EU scholarships may be available at the University of Warwick for 2017/18 intake (View Website<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=70842&type=184&DID=22…>). Applications from self-funded candidates are also welcome.

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[EAIS 2017] Paper Submission deadline is on Sunday, 15th January 2017 2359 UTC-12hr
by Teng Teck Hou 11 Jan '17

11 Jan '17

[Apologies for cross-postings] ################################################## CALL FOR PAPERS IEEE Conference on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems (EAIS 2017) May 31- June 2, 2017, Ljubljana, Slovenia http://msc.fe.uni-lj.si/eais2017/ ################################################## The 2017 IEEE Conference on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems (EAIS 2017) will be held in Ljubljana (Slovenia), a beautiful medieval town. Ljubljana lies halfway between Vienna and Venice, at the crossroads of different cultures, geographical regions, and historical developments. Compared to other capitals, Ljubljana is very small, very green, and very walking-friendly town, which makes it a great place to explore on foot. It is in the center of Slovenia and enables exploring some of the most popular tourist sights of Slovenia in one day. Visit enchanting Bled, with its medieval castle perched upon the lake, explore mysterious Predjama castle and end the trip by visiting Postojna cave, Slovenia's number 1 attraction. EAIS 2017 will provide a working and friendly atmosphere and will be a leading international forum focusing on the discussion of recent advances, the exchange of recent innovations and the outline of open important future challenges in the area of Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems. Over the past decade, this area has emerged to play an important role on a broad international level in today's real-world applications, especially those ones with high complexity and dynamics change. Its embedded modelling and learning methodologies are able to cope with real-time demands, changing operation conditions, varying environmental influences, human behaviors, knowledge expansion scenarios and drifts in online data streams. EAIS 2017 is organized by the IEEE Technical Committee on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems, SMC Society. The conference series has a history starting in 2006 in Lake District (England). It was held after that in Witten-Bommerholz (Germany), Nashville (USA), Leicester (England), Paris (France), Madrid (Spain), Singapore, Linz (Austria), Douai (France), and Natal (Brasil). Authors of selected papers will be invited to submit extended versions for possible inclusion in a special issue of the Journal Evolving Systems (Springer). ##############################Important Dates############################## * Paper Submission January 15, 2017 * Paper Decision Notification February 24, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission March 24, 2017 * Authors registration March 24, 2017 * Conference May 31 - June 2, 2017 ########################################################################### ##########################Keynote Speakers########################## * Plamen Angelov, Professor, Lancaster University, United Kingdom * Fernando Gomide, Professor, University of Campinas, Brazil * Nikola Kasabov, Professor of Computer Sience, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand #################################################################### ##########################Accepted Special Sessions########################## 1. Computational Intelligence in Control of Power Generating Systems, Transmission and Load Management, Session proposer: Horst Schulte, HTW Berlin Email: Horst.Schulte(a)HTW-Berlin.de ############################################################################ # ############Paper Submission and Publication############ * Papers for EAIS 2017 should be submitted electronically through the Conference website at http://msc.fe.uni-lj.si/eais2017. * Submitted papers will be refereed by experts in the fields and ranked based on the criteria of originality, significance, quality and clarity. ######################################################## ######################################################## IEEE Autonomous Learning Machines Competition ALMA Competition is organized by IEEE SMC Society. The goal of this competition is to increase the level of autonomy of the learning algorithms. Competition Tracks: 1. New data sets and streams that are suitable demonstrators for the topic of the competition. 2. New methods and algorithms for Autonomous Machine Learning in: . Clustering . Classification . Control . Prediction Awards: Track 1 - $1000 Track 2 - $1000 in each category ($4000). Important Dates: 31 January, 2017. Deadline for submitting the algorithms in open source GNU license format. The proposed methods and algorithms must be described in form of papers and submitted to the ALS Competition track of EAIS 2017 and presented at the conference (which will be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia). May 31- June 2, 2017. Results will be announced during the conference EAIS 2017. ######################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: * Basic Methologies Evolving Soft Computing Techniques Evolving Fuzzy Systems Evolving Rule-Based Classifiers Evolving Neuro-Fuzzy Systems Adaptive Evolving Neural Networks Adaptive Evolving Fuzzy Systems Online Genetic and Evolutionary Algorithms Data Stream Mining Incremental and Evolving Clustering Approaches Adaptive Control Adaptive Pattern Recognition Computational Intelligence in Control and Estimation Incremental and Evolving ML Classifiers Adaptive Statistical Techniques Evolving Decision Systems Big Data Advanced Concepts * Problems and Methodologies in Data Streams Stability, Robustness, Convergence in Evolving Systems Online Feature Selection and Dimension Reduction Online Active and Semi-supervised Learning Online Complexity Reduction Computational Aspects Interpretability Issues Incremental Adaptive Ensemble Methods Online Bagging and Boosting Self-monitoring Evolving Systems Human-Machine Interaction Issues Hybrid Modeling Transfer Learning Reservoir Computing Real-world Applications * EIS for On-Line Modeling, System Identification, and Control EIS for Time Series Prediction EIS for Data Stream Mining and Adaptive Knowledge Discovery EIS in Robotics, Intelligent Transport and Advanced Manufacturing EIS in Advanced Communications and Multi-Media Applications EIS in Bioinformatics and Medicine EIS in Online Quality Control and Fault Diagnosis EIS in Condition Monitoring Systems EIS in Adaptive Evolving Controller Design EIS in User Activities Recognition EIS in Huge Database and Web Mining EIS in Visual Inspection and Image Classification EIS in Image Processing EIS in Cloud Computing EIS in Multiple Sensor Networks EIS in Query Systems and Social Networks EIS in Alternative Statistical and Machine Learning Approaches ################################################################ ##########################Organizing Committee########################## * Honorary Chairs Plamen Angelov, UK Dimitar Filev, USA Nikola Kasabov, New Zealand * Conference Chair Igor Škrjanc, chair, Slovenia Sašo Blažic, co-chair, Slovenia * Publication Chairs Edwin Lughofer, Austria Sašo Blažic, Slovenia * Local Arrangement Chairs Dejan Dovžan, Slovenia Milan Simcic, Slovenia * Web & Publicity Chair José A. Iglesias, Spain Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore * Special Session Chair: Radu-Emil Precup, Romania * Program Committee Chair: Igor Škrjanc, Slovenia * International Program Committe Cesare Alippi, Italy Plamen Angelov, UK Rosangela Ballini, Brazil Rashmi Dutta Baruah, India Abdelhamid Bouchachia, UK Jorge Cassillas, Spain Bruno Costa, Brazil Dejan Dovžan, Slovenia Alain Droniou, France Dimitar Filev, USA Nadine Gaertner, Germany Joao Gama, Portugal Fernando Gomide, Brazil Jose Antonio Iglesias Martínez, Spain Lazaros Iliadis, Greece Nik Kasabov, New Zealand Juš Kocijan, Slovenia Ana Kosareva, Germany Rudolf Kruse, Germany Agapito Ledezma, Spain Daniel Furtado Leite, Brazil Andre Lemos, Brazil Chin Teng Lin, Taiwan Edwin Lughofer, Austria Yannis Manolopoulos, Greece Trevor Martin, UK Moamar Sayed Mouchaweh, France Veronika Nesheva, UK Seiichi Ozawa, Japan Witold Pedrycz, Canada Radu-Emil Precup, Romania Jose de Jesus Rubio, Mexico Araceli Sanchis de Miguel, Spain Horst Schulte, Germany Olga Senyukova, Russia Teck Hou Teng, Singapore Marley Vellasco, Brazil Di Wang, UAE Wilson Wang, Canada Ronald Yager, USA ####################################################################### #########################Sponsoring Organizations######################### * IEEE * Laboratory of Modeling, Simulation and Control, University of Ljubljana * Laboratory of Autonomous Mobile Systems, University of Ljubljana ##########################################################################

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PhD position available at ETH Zürich
by Felix Franke 10 Jan '17

10 Jan '17

We are looking for a talented student with a proactive and self-driven nature who will map functional characteristics of retinal ganglion cells across the entire retina. The successful candidate will perform experiments with ex-vivo retinae and state-of-the-art microelectrode array technology in an interdisciplinary research project and will collaborate with scientists in electrical engineering, neurobiology, computational neuroscience and ophthalmic research. The PhD project is set in an interdisciplinary research group providing an exciting scientific environment and linked with several ongoing projects. It will pave the way to a better functional understanding of the organization of retina, including the optics of the eye and the statistics of natural stimuli. In particular, we want to understand if functional properties of retinal ganglion cells follow a spatial organization across the entire retina. The ideal candidate will have strong programming skills (e.g., Matlab, Python, C++), knowledge of statistics and data analysis methods, and a background in Systems Neuroscience, Electrophysiology, Computational Neuroscience, Signal Processing, Optics or related fields. Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Felix Franke (felix.franke(a)ethz.ch) The position is with the Bio Engineering Laboratory of ETH Zurich in Basel in the group of Prof. Andreas Hierlemann (https://www.bsse.ethz.ch/bel) and begins in March 2017 although the starting date is flexible. The position is fully funded for 4 years. Please apply under https://apply.refline.ch/845721/5083/pub/1/index.html including a CV, short statement of motivation and research interests, and two letters of reference. -- Felix Franke, PhD ETH Zürich, D-BSSE Bio Engineering Laboratory (BEL) http://www.bsse.ethz.ch/bel

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Save the Date: 3rd Int. Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2017 Call for Papers - Paper submission deadline: February 28, 2017
by Giuseppe Nicosia 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

[Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this announcement] [Please kindly help forward it to potentially interested attendees] 3rd International Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization and big Data - MOD 2017 An Interdisciplinary Workshop: Machine Learning, Optimization and Data Science without Borders - SIAF Learning Village - Volterra (Pisa) Tuscany, September 14-17, 2017 http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ modworkshop2017(a)gmail.com ************************* CALL FOR PAPERS ************************* Paper submission deadline: February 28, 2017 http://www.taosciences.it/mod/call-for-papers/ https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2017 The MOD 2017 workshop will consist of four days of workshop sessions and special sessions. We invite submissions of papers, abstracts and posters on all topics related to Machine learning, Optimization and Big Data including real-world applications for the workshop proceedings: http://www.taosciences.it/mod/call-for-papers/ https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2017 Please prepare your paper in English using the Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) template, which is available http://www.springer.com/computer/lncs?SGWID=0-164-6-793341-0 Papers must be submitted in PDF. MOD 2017 Types of Submissions When submitting a paper to MOD 2017, authors are required to select one of the following four types of papers: + Long paper: original novel and unpublished work (max. 12 pages in Springer LNCS format); + Short paper: an extended abstract of novel work (max. 4 pages); + Work for oral presentation only (no page restriction; any format). For example, work already published elsewhere, which is relevant and which may solicit fruitful discussion at the workshop; + Work for poster presentation only. The poster format for the presentation is A0 (118.9 cm high and 84.1 cm wide, respectively 46.8 x 33.1 inch). For research work which is relevant and which may solicit fruitful discussion at the workshop. MOD 2017 Post-Proceedings All accepted long papers will be published in a volume of the series 'Lecture Notes in Computer Science' from Springer *after* the Workshop. Instructions for preparing and submitting the final versions (camera-ready papers) of all accepted papers will be available later on. All the other papers (short papers, abstract of the oral presentations, poster presentations) will be published on the MOD 2017 web site. MOD 2017 Submission System All papers must be submitted using EasyChair: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2017 The deadline is February 28, 2017 MOD 2017 Important Dates + Paper Submission Deadline: February 28, 2017 + Decision Notification to Authors: May 1st, 2017 + Camera Ready Submission Deadline: June 1st, 2017 + Deadline for early Registration as Presenting Author: June 1st, 2017 + Late registration: June 2 – September 17, 2017 + On-Site registration: September 14-17, 2017 + MOD 2017 Workshop: September 14-17, 2017 We look forward to seeing you in Tuscany! Giuseppe Nicosia & Panos Pardalos - MOD 2017 Chairs. — http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ modworkshop2017(a)gmail.com MOD 2016 Keynote Speakers: Nello Cristianini, University of Bristol, UK George Michailidis, University of Florida, USA Stephen Muggleton, Imperial College London, UK Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA http://www.taosciences.it/mod-2016/keynote-speakers/ MOD 2015 Keynote Speakers: Vipin Kumar, University of Minnesota, USA Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA Tomaso Poggio, MIT, USA http://www.taosciences.it/mod-2015/MOD 2015 -- Giuseppe Nicosia, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Computer Science Dept of Mathematics & Computer Science University of Catania Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy P +39 095 7383048 nicosia(a)dmi.unict.it http://www.dmi.unict.it/nicosia ================================================================== 4th International Synthetic & Systems Biology Summer School - SSBSS 2017 * Biology meets Computer Science & Engineering * July 17-21, 2017 - University of Cambridge, Robinson College, UK http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ Contact Email: ssbss.school(a)gmail.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/ssbss.school/ SSBSS - Synthetic & Systems Biology Summer School Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/238417586492061/ Computational Synthetic Biology Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1014624245288596/ ================================================================== 3rd International Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2017 September 14-17, 2017 - Volterra (Pisa), Tuscany, Italy modworkshop2017(a)gmail.com http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ ==================================================================

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Master position in computational neuroscience at INRIA
by Bruno Cessac 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

Master position in computational neuroscience at INRIA We are seeking an undergraduate student interested in doing a Master thesis, possibly followed by a funded Ph.D. in our group Biovision at INRIA Sophia Antipolis <http://www.inria.fr/en/centre/sophia> lead by Dr. Bruno Cessac. The detailed proposition can be found here https://team.inria.fr/biovision/files/2016/12/M2_Intership_Proposal.pdf In collaboration with experimentalists our group studies how the visual system encodes information about external word. We propose biophysical models, we develop methods coming from theoretical physics and mathematics to analyse them, and we design software inspired from the visual system to mimic its behaviour and to analyse experimental data. Successful applicants should have a strong background in computer science. Physics, mathematics or life science majors with strong skills in computer science (especially C/C++), interested in quantitative modeling work are also encouraged to apply, particularly if they would like to combine experiments and theory in their Master or Ph.D. thesis work. In order to make teamwork in our group enjoyable and fun, the ideal candidate should have a strong work ethic and have demonstrated consistent self-motivation skills. Unfortunately our source of fundings only covers members of the European Community. Prospective students should apply by sending an email to which includes * a letter of motivation, * CV, * and a copy of the current academic transcripts to be sent to bruno.cessac(a)inria.fr Looking forward to your applications! Bruno Cessac

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several full-time job openings at HRL Laboratories in Malibu, CA
by Pilly, Praveen K 08 Jan '17

08 Jan '17

(1) POST DOC RESEARCH STAFF, Machine Learning and Brain-Inspired Computing (2) RESEARCH STAFF, Machine Learning and Brain-Inspired Computing EDUCATION DESIRED: Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, Neuroscience, Machine Learning, or related fields. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION: To develop, implement, and evaluate novel large-scale brain-inspired computational architectures, including spiking neuromorphic models, to solve complex problems such as resilient sensorimotor control; one-shot learning; visual scene segmentation, recognition, and tracking; spatiotemporal pattern discovery; big data prognostics and diagnostics; grammar learning; etc. Additional job functions include writing invention disclosures, publishing papers, making presentations, and assisting in marketing HRL expertise. KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE DESIRED: Programming proficiency in C++, Python, or Matlab is required. Knowledge and/or research experience in the development, implementation, and evaluation of various neural networks including spiking neuromorphic models, deep learning models, hierarchical temporal memory models, recurrent neural networks, long short-term memory models, deep reinforcement models. Knowledge of expectation maximization theory, Bayesian inference on graphical models, reinforcement learning theory, control systems, nonlinear optimization, and episodic, semantic, and procedural memory systems is preferred. Any experience with high-performance computing using clusters, GPUs, or FPGAs will be a plus. ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS: Good communication (verbal and written) skills, and active participation in R&D team activities are required. Able and willing to occasionally travel. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: U.S. person status required. (3) POST DOC RESEARCH STAFF, Machine Learning and EEG Processing EDUCATION DESIRED: Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, Neuroscience, Machine Learning, Bio-Statistics, or related fields ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION: To develop, implement, and validate real-time pattern recognition algorithms for decoding high-density EEG signals to predict future behavioral performance and inform non-invasive brain stimulation for behavioral enhancement in realistic tasks. Additional job functions include writing invention disclosures, publishing papers, making presentations, and assisting in marketing HRL expertise. EXPERIENCE DESIRED: Research experience in one or more of the following areas: high-density EEG decoding, pattern recognition applied to brain/body signals, machine learning with very limited training data, brain-machine interfaces, neural statistical modeling, closed-loop brain stimulation, and computational neuroscience. Deep understanding of machine learning algorithms applied to EEG is highly desirable. Experience developing innovative solutions based upon the application of relevant research results from a wide variety of sources. Individuals with a keen interest in translating basic neuroscience research into real-world applications are especially encouraged to apply. KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE DESIRED: Background in one or more of the following areas: machine learning, pattern recognition, statistical data analysis, neural statistical modeling, neurophysiology, peripheral physiology, neuroscience, and sleep/wake states. Programming proficiency in Matlab and/or C++ is required. ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS: Good communication (verbal and written) skills and active participation in R&D team activities are required. Able and willing to occasionally travel. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: U.S. person status required. We are proud to be an EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. (4) SOFTWARE ENGINEER, Cluster Implementation for Large-Scale Brain Networks EDUCATION DESIRED: Master's degree (or higher) in computer science, engineering, or related fields ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION: To implement and evaluate flexible, general-purpose large-scale brain networks on CPU and GPU clusters for real-time operation in real-world applications. Also to visualize large-scale network activity and develop a user interface to set various parameters. Additional job functions include writing invention disclosures, publishing papers, making presentations, and assisting in marketing HRL expertise. KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE DESIRED: Strong C++ and Python programming skills are required. Experience with/knowledge of brain networks and neural models is highly desired. Experience with threaded programming and MPI, and familiarity with Linux development environment is desired but not necessary. ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS: Good communication (verbal and written) skills, and active participation in R&D team activities are required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: U.S. person status required. We are proud to be an EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. The Information and Systems Sciences Laboratory (ISSL) at HRL Laboratories conducts groundbreaking research in three thrust areas: Complex Networks, Secure and Resilient Systems, Autonomy Computing, and Human-Machine Cognition. We create new and innovative capabilities for diverse applications such as cyber-security, unmanned autonomous systems, human performance augmentation, big data analytics, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. The goal of our research in Human-Machine Cognition is to understand how humans process information and effectively interact with the environment to develop smarter autonomous systems, enhance human performance, and develop novel processing systems. Our research starts with the development of large-scale, neurobiologically and behaviorally faithful brain region models. We apply these models along with real-time measurements of brain activity (EEG, fMRI, fNIRS) to create advanced brain-computer interfaces, human decision aids, and neurostimulation-based enhanced training systems. We also use our models to develop novel brain-inspired sensor exploitation, machine learning, and control algorithms, and to develop low size, weight and power brain-based processing hardware for resilient autonomous systems, dexterous robots, and threat warning applications. HRL offers a competitive salary and benefits package, a small company atmosphere, and an ideal work location overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We also provide a collaborative technical culture committed to producing the leading R&D in the world. If interested, please send your resume via email to Dr. Praveen Pilly (pkpilly(a)hrl.com<mailto:pkpilly@hrl.com>) and put the pertinent Job Name in the subject heading. -- Praveen K. Pilly, Ph.D. Research Staff Scientist Information and Systems Sciences Laboratory HRL Laboratories Address: 3011 Malibu Canyon Road, Malibu, CA 90265 Tel: (310) 317-5492 Email: pkpilly(a)hrl.com

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Multiple Postdoc positions in systems neuroscience at Columbia University
by Qi Wang 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

Apologies for cross posting. Multiple postdoc positions funded by NIH and DARPA projects are available in the Laboratory for Neural Engineering and Control in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University (http://neclab.bme.columbia.edu/) The projects investigate the role of the locus coeruleus (LC) – norepinephrine (NE) system in modulating perception, behavior and learning, and how to accelerate perceptual learning through control of LC activity and peripheral nerve stimulation. We are seeking highly motivated individuals with excellent academic track-record, including first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. Successful candidates should have, or be in the process of completing, a PhD (or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Electrical & Computer Engineering, or a related field. Ideal applicants should have a background on electrophysiology, behavioral training of rodents, and quantitative analytical methods. Experiences in optical imaging is a plus. Applicants should demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work effectively independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Applicants should submit a CV, including a list of publications, a brief description of research interests, and a list of three references. All application materials as well as any inquiries should be sent to qi.wang(a)columbia.edu. Salary will be commensurate to the candidate qualifications. -- ====================================== Qi Wang, Assistant Professor Dept. of Biomedical Engineering Columbia University ET 351, 500 W 120th Street New York, NY 10027 Email:qi.wang@columbia.edu Associate Editor IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering http://tnsre.embs.org/

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Applications open for Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2017
by Erik De Schutter 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2017 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 26 to July 13, 2017 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 26th through July 13th, 2017 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc) only; January 3 - February 5, 2017. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and may support travel for those without funding. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Upinder Bhalla (NCBS, India) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Bard Ermentrout (University of Pittsburgh, USA) • Ila Fiete (University of Texas Austin, USA) • Sonja Grün (Research Centre Jülich, Germany) • Shin Ishii (Kyoto University, Japan) • Jason Kerr (MPI Bonn, Germany) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Subkin Lim (NYU Shanghai, China) • Michele Migliore (Institute of Biophysics, Italy) • David Redish (University of Minnesota, USA) • Reza Shadmehr (Johns Hopkins University, USA) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Yoko Yazaki-Sugiyama (OIST) • Charles Wilson (University of Texas San Antonio, USA)

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Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuits, Memory and Computation 2017
by Aurel A. Lazar 05 Jan '17

05 Jan '17

Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuits, Memory and Computation 2017 BCMC 2017 March 13-14, 2017 Center for Neural Engineering and Computation Columbia University, New York, NY, USA Overview The goal of the workshop is to bring together researchers interested in developing executable models of neural computation/processing of the brain of model organisms. Of interest are models of computation that consist of elementary units of processing using brain circuits and memory elements. Elementary units of computation/processing include population encoding/decoding circuits with biophysically-grounded neuron models, non-linear dendritic processors for motion detection/direction selectivity, spike processing and pattern recognition neural circuits, movement control and decision-making circuits, etc. Memory units include models of spatio-temporal memory circuits, circuit models for memory access and storage, etc. A major aim of the workshop is to explore the integration of various sensory and control circuits in higher brain centers. A Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon <http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/hackathons/ffbh/2017> is being conducted in conjunction with the workshop. Workshop participants are welcome to attend the hackathon. Organizer and Program Chair Aurel A. Lazar <http://www.ee.columbia.edu/~aurel>, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University. Program Overview (Confirmed Speakers) Dinu Florin Albeanu <http://albeanulab.labsites.cshl.edu/people/>, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Vijay Balasubramanian <http://www.sas.upenn.edu/~vbalasub/public-html/Home.html>, Department of Physics, University of Pennsylvania. Albert Cardona <https://www.janelia.org/people/albert-cardona>, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA. Ann-Shyn Chiang <http://brc.life.nthu.edu.tw/FlyLab/html/leader.html>, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan. Jonathan B. Demb <http://eyes.yale.edu/people/jonathan_demb.profile>, Yale School of Medicine. Barry J. Dickson <https://www.janelia.org/people/barry-dickson>, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA. Anmo J. Kim <http://www.rockefeller.edu/research/faculty/labmembers/GabyMaimon/>, Rockefeller University, New York. Konrad P. Kording <http://klab.smpp.northwestern.edu/wiki/index.php5/People>, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University. Adam H. Marblestone <http://www.adammarblestone.org/>, Synthetic Neurobiology Group, MIT. Katherine I. Nagel <http://www.nagellab.com/people/>, NYU Medical School. Gerald M. Rubin <http://www.hhmi.org/scientists/gerald-m-rubin>, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA. Silke Sachse <https://www.ice.mpg.de/ext/index.php?id=hopa&pers=sisa3622>, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena. Marion Silies <http://www.eni-net.org/members/dr-marion-silies>, European Neuroscience Institute, Göttingen. Andreas S. Thum <https://cms.uni-konstanz.de/neuro/member/?tx_mhkleineidam_pi1%5BpId%5D=5029>, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz. Tim P. Vogels <https://www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/research/vogels-group>, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford. More information about BCMC 2017 can be found here <http://fruitflybrain.org/workshops.html>. Aurel http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu <http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/>

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Fwd: Ressearch Assitant McGill University
by Md. Taufiq Nasseef 04 Jan '17

04 Jan '17

I am already a member of this comp-neuro mailing list. Could you circulate this one please. Thanks. Best wishes, Taufiq *Please see advertisement below:* *Job Title:* Research Assistant *Hiring Unit*: Dr. Brigitte Kieffer’s laboratory *Work Location*: Douglas Hospital and Research Center - Perry Building 6875, boul. LaSalle *Hours/week*: 35 hours/week – Mon-Fri *Salary*: $27,000 -36,000 (adjusted according to experience) *Start Date:* February 1st 2017 *Description:* The selected candidate will be part of an internationally renowned team of Prof. Brigitte Kieffer (http://douglas.research. mcgill.ca/brigitte-kieffer) and will be a key actor for two team projects. These studies aim at understanding the function of Mu opioid receptors (the receptors for morphine) within brain networks and also test innovative opiates drugs. Methodological approaches include establishment of functional connectivity signatures using fMRI in live mice and also visualize/quantify receptor signaling by fluorescence microscopy. The selected candidate will be responsible for image acquisition and post-processing of the fMRI images as well as participating in the development of a pipeline to analyze multiphoton or confocal microscopy images. *Primary Duties*: Acquisition of fMRI images (Bruker 7 Tesla) Data analysis and image post-processing 3D reconstruction and volume analysis of microscopy (confocal/multiphoton) images *Requirements:* Bachelors degree in Biology/Computer Science or relevant experience. Knowledge in MRI and animal experimentation. Knowledge in coding, OS and languages (Linux, MATlab, Python) Excellent organizational and time management skills. Strong team spirit to ensure optimal interactions with all team scientists. *Comments:* The person will profit from Douglas Research Centre benefits. Applicants are invited to submit their cover letters and resumes via email to: emmanuel.darcq(a)douglas.mcgill.ca We thank all applicants. Only selected candidates will be contacted. ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------- Emmanuel Darcq, PhD Brigitte Kieffer Lab, Douglas Research Centre Dpt Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University Perry room E-3403 6875, boulevard LaSalle Montreal (Quebec) H4H 1R3 CANADA Phone :+1 514 761-6131 ext.: 4772 Avis de confidentialité: L'information contenue dans ce courriel peut être confidentielle et/ou privilégiée. Si vous n’êtes pas le destinataire de ce message, veuillez le détruire et en informer l’expéditeur. Il est interdit de copier ou de modifier ce courriel sans autorisation de l’auteur. Le Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal n’assume aucune responsabilité du contenu des messages personnels. Notice of confidentiality: The information contained in this email may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, please destroy it and advise the sender. It is forbidden to copy or modify this email without the author's consent. The Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal is not responsible for the content of personal messages. -- Md Taufiq Nasseef, PhD Post Doctoral Fellow Brain Imaging Center Douglas Mental Health University Institute McGill University 6875 Lasalle Blvd. Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3 Canada Tel: (514) 862-6907 <%28514%29%20557-2740>

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Master Internship + PhD at CerCo, Toulouse, France
by Timothée Masquelier 04 Jan '17

04 Jan '17

Beating Roger Federer: *Modeling visual learning and expertise through a bioinspired neural network embedded in an electronic device* *Goal:* Internship for student in engineering school / Master degree’s student. The project can lead to a PhD grant. *When:* 5-6 months from February to July 2017 *Topic:* How do expert tennis players, like Roger Federer for example, predict if a ball will bounce in or out the field to decide if it should be played or not? After thousands of trajectory presentations, best champions have developed extraordinary skills in such a task, but little is known on how the visual system turns selective to spatiotemporal properties of the visual stimulus (e.g., 3D position, velocity and acceleration) and learns how to make an efficient use of it. The goal of the project is to build an embedded system – based on FPGA circuits and ARM processor – an artificial neural network which would replicate – and perhaps beat – the visual and anticipatory performances of these expert players. To achieve this goal successfully, we will develop a bio-inspired neural network, based on some of the key properties of human vision: the Smart NeuroCam (GST company) will be used to reproduce the retina functioning. It triggers its message under the form of spikes, in an asynchronous way (without any concept of frame per second), responding to spatial or temporal changes in the pattern of illumination. Several kinds of pre-processing filters can be implemented in VHDL language directly in the FPGA circuits, and the output is then sent to a neural network. The artificial network will learn to use this message, applying a simple learning rule, the Spike-Timing-Dependent Plasticity (STDP). This rule allows each neuron to become selective to a particular property of the stimulus, completely autonomously and with no supervision. Several layers will be built to allow perceiving more and more complex properties of the visual scene. Once the network will be established, its performances will be assessed in different conditions of learning and compared to those of the best tennis players. *The project is funded by a French National Research Agency (ANR)*, involving two sites and several researchers: - Robin Baurès, Benoit Cottereau, Timothée Masquelier and Simon Thorpe, CerCo, Toulouse. - Michel Paindavoine, GST, Dijon. *Where: *The candidate will be based at CerCo, Toulouse (France), and will make the interface with the two sites, with regular trips. The computational neuroscience part will be done at Toulouse, and electronic part at Dijon. *Objectives for the engineering / Master internship:* - Matlab (or Python) based simulations of numerical filters. These filters will be applied to the image processing from which spikes are generated and then sent to feed the neural network and STDP learning mechanism. - VHDL coding to implement these numerical filters into the FPGA circuits of the cameras - C/C++ coding of the neural network and STDP mechanism that should work on an embedded ARM processor system - Experimental tests that will allow evaluating the performance of the whole system, from spikes generation to visual properties learning of the embedded system, to predict tennis ball’s trajectories *Required skills:* - Strong knowledge on electronic, and openness to computational neurosciences - Knowledge in signal-image processing, and artificial neural network - Interest for multidisciplinary research - Ability to turn smoothly autonomous, once the road has been set - Ability to be at the interface of two scientific fields and two working areas - Programming with Matlab and/or Python for simulating the neural network - Programming in VHDL language for FPGA circuits - Programming in C/C++ language for porting the algorithms on ARM microprocessors - French is not a requirement if fluent in English, but willingness to learn would be beneficial *Relevant publications for the project:* - Masquelier, T., Guyonneau, R. & Thorpe S.J. (2009). Competitive STDP-Based Spike Pattern Learning.Neural Comput, 21(5),1259-1276. - Masquelier, T. & Thorpe, S.J. (2007). Unsupervised learning of visual features through spike timing dependent plasticity. PLoS Comput Biol, 3(2):e31. - Cottereau, B.R., McKee, S.P. & Norcia, A.M. (2014). Dynamics and cortical distribution of neural responses to 2D and 3D motion in human. Journal of Neurophysiology 111(3), 533-543. - SmartNeuroCam de GST : https://gsensing.eu/fr/ category/sections/products *Contact:* *Robin Baurès, PhD* Associate Professor CerCo, Université Toulouse 3, CNRS CHU Purpan, Pavillon Baudot 31059 Toulouse Cedex 9 – France Office phone: 0033 (0)5 62 74 62 15 <05%2062%2074%2062%2015> Email : robin.baures(a)cnrs.fr *Pr Michel Paindavoine* GlobalSensing Technologies 14, rue Pierre de Coubertin 21000 Dijon email : michel.paindavoine(a)gsensing.eu

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Postdoc position at TU Berlin/BCCN Berlin
by Philipp Hoevel 04 Jan '17

04 Jan '17

The Hövel group (Institute of Theoretical Physics at TU Berlin and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin) invites application for a postdoc position in the area of computational neuroscience. The successful applicant will be joining a DFG-funded project entitled "Temporal fluctuations in functional networks of the human brain - modeling brain transition between cognitive states" Detailed knowledge in the area of computational neuroscience and nonlinear dynamics is essential, experience in neuroimaging data analysis is advantageous. For further details, see official call for applications: https://tub.stellenticket.de/de/offers/31261/ Closing date for applications is January 23, 2017. -- Dr. Philipp Hövel Junior Research Group Leader Technische Universität Berlin Fakultät II - Mathematik und Naturwissenschaften Institut für Theoretische Physik, Sekr. EW 7-1 Hardenbergstr. 36 10623 Berlin, Germany Phone: +49 (0)30 314-27658 Fax: +49 (0)30 314-21130 Email: phoevel(a)physik.tu-berlin.de Web: http://www.tu-berlin.de?hoevel

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Funded PhD position on neural circuits & behaviour, University of Cambridge
by Timothy O'Leary 04 Jan '17

04 Jan '17

A funded PhD position "Reverse-engineering invertebrate neural circuits" is available in the group of Timothy O'Leary, University of Cambridge. Start date: October 2017, *application deadline: January 31, 2017*. Eligibility: *UK and EU students*. The project is a collaboration with a leading experimental lab (Marta Zlatic, HHMI), studying the neural circuits underlying behavioural variability in Drosophila. The project aims to uncover circuit principles of action selection using a combination of theory, computational modeling and cutting-edge experiments. Applicants should have strong skills in mathematics, programming and data analysis, and a desire to develop cutting-edge experimental techniques. *Full description and application instructions are available here*: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/12211/ Please feel free to contact Dr O'Leary directly with informal enquiries ( tso24(a)cam.ac.uk) http://www.neuroscience.cam.ac.uk/directory/profile.php?tso24

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Systems neuroscience mailing list
by Nikolas Karalis 04 Jan '17

04 Jan '17

Dear all, I would like to inform you about a new mailing list targeted to researchers in the wider field of Systems Neuroscience. The aim is to create a platform for the distribution of useful information such as job and conference calls. More information about this mailing list can be found at the website: www.systemsneuroscience.eu You can directly subscribe by clicking this link <https://groups.google.com/group/systems-neuroscience/subscribe>. If you would like to advertise any job openings or events you are organizing, please feel free to post to the mailing list by sending an email to the address: systems-neuroscience(a)googlegroups.com Kind regards, Nikolas Karalis -- Nikolas Karalis - http://www.nikolaskaralis.gr <http://nikolaskaralis.gr> Doctoral Candidate in Neuroscience - Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München M.Sc. in Neuroscience (Charité, Berlin & Université de Bordeaux II) B.Sc, M.Sc in Applied Mathematics and Physics (NTUA)

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Postdoctoral Position in Computational Neuroscience at IDIBAPS/UPF (Barcelona)
by JROCHAV＠clinic.cat 03 Jan '17

03 Jan '17

Postdoctoral Position on Behavioural modelling and neural analysis of flexible perceptual decision-making at IDIBAPS / UPF (Barcelona) A postdoctoral research position in computational neuroscience is available to work with Jaime de la Rocha at IDIBAPS (Barcelona) and Alexandre Hyafil at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF, Barcelona). The postdoctoral fellow will be a vital member of the interdisciplinary research team led by Jaime de la Rocha that studies perception and cognition using combined theoretical and experimental approaches. More specifically, the fellow’s work will be part of an ERC-funded project aiming to unravel the behavioural principles and the neural mechanisms underlying how recent experience shapes perception and guides decisions. The fellow will (1) characterize the behavioural influence of recent history onto perceptual choices in rats and humans performing acoustic discrimination tasks, (2) analyze population recordings from cortical neurons obtained from rats to uncover the traces of recent history decision biases and (3) build dynamical models of behaviour based on the population recordings using a variety of machine learning tools. Behavioural and neural data is currently being acquired by other researchers in the lab. The work will be co-supervised between Jaime de la Rocha, head of the Cortical Circuit Dynamics Group (http://neuro.fcrb.es/delaRochaLab/) and Alexandre Hyafil who is establishing his new laboratory in the nearby UPF, and has in the last years develop a set analysis techniques fitted for our data. Both groups are part of the vibrant computational neuroscience community of Barcelona, which promotes the interaction among groups by organizing multiple interaural activities. Applicants should have a strong background in computational neuroscience or applied mathematics and have a keen interest in interdisciplinary approaches that integrate modeling and experimental research. Programming proficiency (Matlab and/or Python) is required. Experience in machine learning methods, advanced statistics as well as nonlinear dynamical systems will be valued. Ability to collaborate in a pluridisciplinary team is essential. Initial appointment for this position is for two years. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants, please send a resume, names and contact of 3 references and a cover letter explaining your interest and research experience to jrochav(a)clinic.cat<mailto:jrochav@clinic.cat> and alexandre.hyafil(a)gmail.com<mailto:alexandre.hyafil@gmail.com>. Jaime de la Rocha Group Leader at IDIBAPS c. Rosselló 149-153 Barcelona, 08036 Spain Tel. +34 932275400 (4307)

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PhD positions available at the Bernstein Centre Freiburg, Germany
by Carsten Mehring 02 Jan '17

02 Jan '17

The Bernstein Center Freiburg (BCF) is inviting applications for fully funded PhD positions in Computational Neuroscience and Neurotechnology. The BCF concentrates research in Computational Neuroscience and Neurotechnology at the University of Freiburg, Germany. The projects are highly interdisciplinary and span across mathematical-theoretical approaches on the function and dynamics of neuronal networks, neuroanatomy, experimentally driven neurophysiology and the development of technologies for medical application. The deadline for applications is January 31, 2017. For more information, please visit our website http://www.bcf.uni-freiburg.de/jobs <http://www.bcf.uni-freiburg.de/jobs> -- Dr. Birgit Ahrens birgit.ahrens(a)bcf.uni-freiburg.de <mailto:birgit.ahrens@bcf.uni-freiburg.de> Teaching & Training Coordinator Bernstein Center Freiburg University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9a D - 79104 Freiburg Germany Phone: +49 (0) 761 203-9575 Fax: +49 (0) 761 203-9559

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NeuroBridges 2017 Summer school announcement
by ahmed el hady 02 Jan '17

02 Jan '17

*NeuroBridges 2017 Summer school , Cluny, France* *(** September 3 - September 14, 2017 )* *NeuroBridges* is an initiative that was founded to bring Mediterrenean and Middle Eastern neuroscientists in an event to discuss science and promote mutual understanding. The two first events of the series took place in Goettingen, Germany in July 2014 ( http://elsc.huji.ac.il/content/neurobridges) and in Paris, France, in September 2015 (http://elsc.huji.ac.il/content/second-neurobridges-meeting) Each of these three days events brought together twenty young speakers, Palestinians, Egyptians, Jordanians, Syrians and Israelis, as well as several speakers from the hosting countries. Nobel Laureate Erwin Neher opened NeuroBridges in 2014. Stanislas Dehaene, professeur au College De France and member of the French Academy of Sciences gave the opening lecture in NeuroBridges 2015. *NeuroBridges 2017* ( http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2017.html) will be a ten days summer school. Students will attend lectures delivered by a group of leading neuroscientists, experimentalists as well as theoreticians, which will address the fundamental questions of contemporary neuroscience. In addition to the lectures, the students will work in groups on small research projects. The school is intended for graduate students and postdocs, primarily from the Middle East and the Mediterranean region either working in their home countries or abroad. We will consider applicants with some background in applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering or physics, interested in theoretical brain and cognitive sciences. We will also consider those with biological or medical background given that they show proof of basic mathematical knowledge (i.e. linear algebra, calculus, in particular ordinary differential equation). Through the online application system (can be accessed through: http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2017.html ) , you will be asked to provide personal details, academic background, the names of two referees , a motivation letter that should include a paragraph about your quantitative skills and a CV. The school will take place between September 3 and September 14, 2017 in Le Centre de Conférences Internationales de Cluny (CCIC) <http://www.ccic.eu/index.html>. Cluny is a small medieval town in Burgundy, France, located about 400km southeast of Paris (accessible by fast train, TGV). All costs of registration and accommodation will be covered by the organizers. A limited number of travel grants will also be available. The application deadline is March 31st 2017. *NeuroBridges* is co-organized by Ahmed El Hady <http://scholar.princeton.edu/ahmedelhady/home>(Princeton Neuroscience Institute, USA), Yonatan Loewenstein <http://elsc.huji.ac.il/loewenstein/home> (Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel) and David Hansel <https://neurophys.biomedicale.parisdescartes.fr/members/david-hansel>(CNRS, Paris, France). *2017 Confirmed Faculty (check the website regularly for updated faculty list):* Carl van Vreeswijk (CNRS) <https://neurophys.biomedicale.parisdescartes.fr/members/carl-van-vreeswijk/> Gianluigi Mongillo (CNRS) <https://neurophys.biomedicale.parisdescartes.fr/members/gianluigi-mongillo/> Shaul Druckmann (Janelia) <https://www.janelia.org/people/shaul-druckmann> Yoram Burak (Hebrew University) <http://elsc.huji.ac.il/burak/home> Omri Barak (Technion) <http://neuroscience.technion.ac.il/researcher/19> Najib Majaj (NYU) <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Najib_Majaj> Farzan Nadim (NJIT) <https://biology.njit.edu/people/nadim.php> If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email Ahmed El Hady (email: ahady(a)princeton.edu )

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