March 2019 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Creating a list of important computational predictions
by Yiota Poirazi 04 Jan '21

04 Jan '21

Dear all, I believe you would agree that, the greatest recognition of our computational work comes with the experimental verification of our computational predictions. To highlight the most important outcomes of our theoretical work and facilitate a closer interaction with experimental labs so as to increase the chances of our predictions being experimentally tested, I would like to encourage you to nominate your favorite prediction at the following google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJZ2RrXJ0nZonIuyNzN0Cl gXDKDb7xTzoJOiqZTGxm9Kh7ow/viewform?c=0&w=1&usp=mail_form_link This effort started during the CNS 2017 meeting in Antwerp with the support of the OCNS Board. The resulting list will be posted on the CNS 2017 web site and disseminated in social media, as a reference for experimentalists. Thank you very much for supporting this important effort! Best wishes, Yiota Poirazi -- Panayiota Poirazi, Ph.D. Research Director Computational Biology Laboratory Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) Vassilika Vouton, P.O.Box 1385, GR 70013, Heraklion, Crete GREECE Tel: +30 2810 391139 Fax: +30 2810 391101 Εmail: poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr Lab site: www.dendrites.gr FENS-Kavli Network of Excellence <http://www.fens.org/Outreach/FENS-Kavli-Network-of-Excellence/> -- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by *E.F.A. Project* <http://www.efa-project.org>, and is believed to be clean. Click here to report this message as spam. <http://mailgate1.imbb.forth.gr/cgi-bin/learn-msg.cgi?id=4BCD7A00A1.A57D7&to…> -- Panayiota Poirazi, Ph.D. Research Director Computational Biology Laboratory Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) Vassilika Vouton, P.O.Box 1385, GR 70013, Heraklion, Crete GREECE Tel: +30 2810 391139 Fax: +30 2810 391101 Εmail: poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr Lab site: www.dendrites.gr FENS-Kavli Network of Excellence <http://www.fens.org/Outreach/FENS-Kavli-Network-of-Excellence/>

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[publication and call for dialog] IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems
by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer 23 Jan '20

23 Jan '20

Dear colleagues, we are happy to announce the release of the latest issue of the IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems (open access). This is a biannual newsletter addressing the sciences of developmental and cognitive processes in natural and artificial organisms, from humans to robots, at the crossroads of cognitive science, developmental psychology, artificial intelligence, machine learning and neuroscience. It is available at: https://goo.gl/NAwBfD Featuring dialog: === "Curiosity as Driver of Extreme Specialization in Humans" == Dialog initiated by Celeste Kidd with responses from: Elizabeth Bonawitz, Maya Zhe Wang, Brian Sweis, Benjamin Hayden, Susan Engel, Abigail Hsiung, Shabnam Hakimi, Alison Adcock, Moritz Daum, Arjun Shankar, Tobias Hauser, Goren Gordon and Perry Zurn == Topic: Curiosity-driven learning is probably one of the most fundamental mechanisms in human learning, and yet it is also probably one of the least understood. Broadly construed as spontaneous exploration and engagement with activities or material without any extrinsic goal (as opposed to searching for information useful for an extrinsic goal), many mysteries remain to be uncovered. What are the causal links between curiosity and learning? How does prior knowledge about a topic or an activity relates to curiosity about this topic? What is the role of curiosity in life-span development? Can human curiosity explain the apparently unique tendency of humans for extreme specialization? Reversely, how do different forms of curiosity (diversive or specific) evolve as children grow up and become adults? While early computational models of curiosity propose theoretical approaches to understand their cognitive mechanisms, how can we understand the affective/ emotional dimensions of curiosity? And how has the linguistic concept of “curiosity” evolved in occidental culture? Call for new dialog: === « Leveraging Adaptive Games to Learn How to Help Children Learn Effectively" == Dialog initiated by George Kachergis == Topic: How can one achieve efficiently “translational educational sciences” and get these principles used in real-world large-scale educational technologies? In this dialog, Georges Kachergis highlights challenges related to collaborations between cognitive scientists and game developers, how to deploy real world experiments, and how to enable scientific understanding when many variables cannot easily be controlled? Those of you interested in reacting to this dialog initiation are welcome to submit a response by December 15th, 2018. The length of each response must be between 600 and 800 words including references (contact pierre-yves.oudeyer(a)inria.fr) Let us remind you that all issues of the newsletter are all open-access and available at: https://goo.gl/ZjjZNz I wish you a stimulating reading! Best regards, Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, Editor of the IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Research director, Inria Head of Flowers project-team Inria and Ensta ParisTech, France http://www.pyoudeyer.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/pyoudeyer and Fabien Benureau, Editorial Assistant Cognitive NeuroRobotics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa Japan Email: fabien.benureau [at] oist [dot] jp

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Postdoc positions on Consciousness Research at Monash Uni, Australia
by Naotsugu Tsuchiya 14 Jan '20

14 Jan '20

Position A: DP180100396 (in collaboration with Masafumi Oizumi, Hiroto Kawasaki, Giulio Tononi) No report paradigm in EEG/MEG/intracranial recordings and the analysis of integrated information across sensory and prefrontal cortex Position B: DP180104128 (in collaboration with Marta Garrido, Ueli Rutishauser, Ralph Adolphs) The analysis of MEG/intracranial recordings, using Granger causality and integrated information We are looking for highly talented postdocs (application from PhD students with a prospect of getting PhD in 1 year are welcomed) for the above two ARC-funded positions. Ideal candidates in both positions would have strong publications, strong programming skills in Matlab/Python, strong background in data analysis, preferably neuroimaging data or neural spikes. The projects include 1) design of various psychophysical paradigms (*pdf <https://academic.oup.com/nc/article/doi/10.1093/nc/niw023/2970153/Are-we-un…>)*, including no-report paradigms (*pdf <https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9N0ysU85rs7bEF5d1VVX3J4T3c/view>*), which can be used for subsequent EEG/MEG/intracranial recording experiments and 2) analysis of EEG/MEG/intracranial data using the approximations of integrated information (link1 <http://www.eneuro.org/content/4/5/ENEURO.0085-17.2017>, *link <https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B9N0ysU85rs7NFVSQlIza215eVU> *, *link <http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2016/12/02/1603583113.abstract>*, *link <http://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.10046…>)* ). Please send the inquiry with your CV to naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu. Applicants with most fit background and skills will be contacted for subsequent interview over the internet. The positions will be available until they are filled. Regards Nao Tsuchiya -- -- *Nao (Naotsugu) Tsuchiya* Associate Professor *Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences* Attention and Memory Program School of Psychological Sciences Monash University 770 Blackburn Monash Brain Imaging facility, Clayton, VIC 3800 Australia T: +61 3 9905 4564 E: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu W: homepage: http://users.monash.edu.au/~naotsugt/Tsuchiya_Labs_Homepage http://med.monash.edu.au/psych/email-sig/miccn-email-sig.jpg <http://www.monash.edu/neuro-institute/> 2. Visiting Researcher at Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging, Advanced Telecommunications Research (ATR), Japan 3. Visiting Researcher at CiNet, Osaka University, Japan orcid.org/0000-0003-4216-8701

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Professorship in Artificial Intelligence
by Steuber, Volker 08 May '19

08 May '19

Professor of Artificial Intelligence University of Hertfordshire, UK School of Computer Science, College Lane Campus, Hatfield Salary £58,293 to £64,397 pa dependent on skills and experience FTE: Full time position working 37 hours per week (1.0FTE) Duration of Contract: Permanent position Closing date: 3 September 2018 Applications are invited for an exceptionally well qualified Professor of Artificial Intelligence of international standing who shares our commitment to research-informed teaching, embraces the research impact agenda, and values collegiality. Applicants will strengthen existing activity within the School and develop it further, enhancing the research strengths and external reputation of the School of Computer Science and contributing significantly to its performance in future research assessments and collaborations with public and commercial partners. The successful applicant will connect to and complement the research conducted by the Adaptive Systems Research Group within the Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research. The School hosts the University of Hertfordshire Robot House, a facility ubiquitously equipped with low-cost sensors providing a realistic environment for experiments with robotics in a smart home; a fully-fledged RoboCup lab for development of humanoid robots participating in international competitions, and a large variety of different robotic platforms, including iCub and Baxter. We encourage applications from researchers across a wide spectrum of AI, and particularly encourage applications from researchers working on emerging topics in AI. Possible fields include, but are not limited to: • Machine learning: reinforcement learning, Deep Methods, statistical methods, large scale data modelling/intelligent processing and high-performance learning algorithms • Robotics: embodied and/or cognitive robotics, HRI, robot safety, emotional/social robots, smart homes and sensors, sensor fusion, assistive robotics • Complex Systems: collective intelligence, adaptive, autonomous and multi-agent/robot systems, collective and swarm intelligence, social and market modelling, adaptive, evolutionary and unconventional computation • Mathematical Modelling: statistical modelling, information-theoretic methods, compressive sensing, intelligent data visualization, multiscale models, optimization • Emerging Topics in AI: computer algebra and AI, topological methods (e.g. persistent homology), modern topics in games and AI • AI and applications: financial modelling, AI and biology/physics/cognitive sciences • Foundations: fundamental questions of intelligence and computation, emergence of life/intelligence, Artificial Life As well as providing research supervision at PhD and MSc level, the School of Computer Science offers modules in Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, neural and evolutionary computing, as well as Artificial Life on the BSc and MSc programmes. Applicants will be committed to a strong research and research-informed teaching agenda, and will actively contribute to increase research impact of the School, in the enthusiastic, welcoming and collegiate environment of the school. Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, possess excellent communication skills in English, an internationally excellent research record and reputation, including publications of the highest quality suitable for submission to the REF (UK Research Excellence Framework). Applicants are expected to show evidence of experience and success in research/commercial income generation, engagement with the research impact agenda, engagement with key stakeholders in the relevant Artificial Intelligence community and management and leadership ability. The professor will have opportunity to contribute actively to interdisciplinary research projects at the school and university level. Applications must be made online https://www.herts.ac.uk/contact-us/jobs-and-vacancies/academic-vacancies?, reference 016194?. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Volker Steuber (Associate Dean Research, v.steuber(a)herts.ac.uk) or Professor William Clocksin (Dean of School, w.clocksin(a)herts.ac.uk) Please note that applications sent directly by email will not be accepted.

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7th Baltic-Nordic School on Neuroinformatics BNNI 2019, August, Frankfurt Germany
by Martin Mittag 06 May '19

06 May '19

*7th Baltic-Nordic School on Neuroinformatics BNNI 2019* *Modeling Healthy and Diseased Brain: From Dendrites to Neurons and Networks*** *Frankfurt am Main, Germany* *26-28 August 2019* ** *We invite* Advanced master students, doctoral students, and postdoctoral researchers are welcome to participate in the BNNI 2019 to be held at the FIAS, the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies, Frankfurt Main, Germany in August 2019. *The Course* The course is interdisciplinary and covers modeling at different levels of organization of the brain, from single neurons to microcircuits and networks. We will focus on differences between healthy and diseased brains. Participants will learn about compartmental and morphological modeling of synapses, dendrites and neurons, as well as simulating local field potentials (LFPs). The course combines lectures, tutorials and computer exercises. This summer school is the seventh in the series of the Baltic-Nordic Courses on Neuroinformatics (BNNI 2013 in Kaunas, Lithuania; BNNI 2014 in Tampere, Finland; BNNI 2015 in Tartu, Estonia; BNNI 2016 in Warsaw, Poland; BNNI 2017 in Kaunas, Lithuania; BNNI 2018 in Ventspils, Latvia). *Target audience* The target audience of the course will be advanced master students, doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers in biomedical and technology sciences, from medicine, biology, psychology, to mathematics, informatics, information technology, physics, chemistry, who would like to get an introduction to neuroinformatics and computational neuroscience. Some experience with programming and quantitative reasoning as well as strong interest in computational and mathematical modeling of the brain will be desirable but not necessary to benefit from the school. We will use the NEURON simulation environment for biophysical realistic models of neurons and the Matlab software package including the TREES toolbox. Desktop computers will be provided for the exercise part. *Important Dates* * 15 May 2019*: Application deadline * 1 June 2019:* Acceptance notification *26 - 28 August 2019:* School *Venue* The lectures will be held on 26th to 28th of August, 2019, at the: Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies, Ruth-Moufang-Straße 1, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Frankfurt is a very international city in the heart of Germany and Europe. The city centre combines the historic, medieval past with the modern, economic present. We are looking forward to welcoming you in Frankfurt! *More information and applications at* _web.lsmuni.lt/bnni2019/en <http://web.lsmuni.lt/bnni2019/en>_ *Practical arrangements* The organizers will provide teaching materials, meals and coffee during the course. The participants are expected to cover their travel and health insurance expenses. There is a small fee to be paid (30 - 100 EUR). If you are not sure whether you can afford it, apply anyway. We have some stipends for members of OCNS (www.cnsorg.org) to give away. Student residence is provided and close to the campus in the Relexa hotel. *Faculty includes* Marja-Leena Linne, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland Bruce Graham, Institute of Mathematics and Informatics, University of Stirling, UK Ausra Saudargiene, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania Arnd Roth, Wolfson Institute of Biomedical Research, University College London, UK Misha Tsodyks, Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel Dieter Jäger, Biology Department, Emory University, Atlanta, USA Gaute Einevoll, Norwegian University of Life Sciences & University of Oslo, Norway Matthew Larkum, Neurocure Cluster of Excellence, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany Daniel Wojcik, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland Hermann Cuntz, ESI & FIAS, Frankfurt, Germany Peter Jedlicka, ICAR3R, Justus Liebig University Gießen, Germany Gilles Laurent, MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany Jochen Triesch, FIAS, Frankfurt, Germany Tatjana Tchumatchenko, MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany Julijana Gjorgjieva, MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany Arvind Kumar, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden Aiste Pranckeviciene, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania Viola Priesemann, MPI Göttingen, Germany Matthias Kaschube, FIAS, Frankfurt, Germany *Organizing committee* **** **Peter Jedlicka, ICAR3R, Justus Liebig University Gießen, Germany Ausra Saudargiene, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania Marja-Leena Linne, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland Jochen Triesch, FIAS, Frankfurt, Germany * We are looking forward to welcoming you at the BNNI 2019 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany!*

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NeuroBridges 2019 School Announcement
by Ahmed El Hady 01 May '19

01 May '19

*/NeuroBridges 2019 Summer school , Cluny, France/* */( September 8th - September 19th, 2019)/* I would like to bring to your attention the *NeuroBridges 2019 Computational Neuroscience School*. <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2019.html> NeuroBridges <https://www.facebook.com/NeuroBridges/>is a one-of-a-kind series of scientific meetings in brain research, which brings together Mediterranean and Middle Eastern scientists, in order to promote international scientific cooperation in system and computational neuroscience. A major goal of this school is to serve as a bridge between experimental and theoretical neuroscientists, addressing system-level questions. This year the school will primarily focus on the neural basis and computational principles underlying sensory- motor tasks, in which the agent chooses from a small number of actions based on sensory and operant cues. *The forthcoming NeuroBridges 2019* will be a ten-day summer school. Students will attend lectures delivered by a group of leading neuroscientists, experimentalists as well as theoreticians, which will address the fundamental questions in the field of decision making. 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 (but not only) from the Middle East and the Mediterranean region either working in their home countries or abroad. We will consider applicants with some background in related fields in neuroscience or cognitive psychology. Through the online application system, you will be asked to provide personal details, academic background, a motivation letter that should include a paragraph about your quantitative skills and a CV. In addition, we request two recommendation letters. The school will take place between *September 8 and September 19, 2019* in Le Centre de Conferences 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. *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). Review of applications will end in May 2019. *2019 Faculty:* Merav Ahissar (Hebrew U.) <https://elsc.huji.ac.il/index.php?q=ahissar/home> Athena Akrami (UCL) <https://elsc.huji.ac.il/index.php?q=ahissar/home> Rafal Bogacz (Oxford) <https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/rafal-bogacz> Thomas Boraud (CNRS) <http://www.inb.u-bordeaux2.fr/dev/EN/researcher.php?researcher=Thomas+Borau…> Mathew Diamond (SISSA) <https://phdcns.sissa.it/faculty/mathew-diamond> Ido Erev (Technion) <https://web.iem.technion.ac.il/en/people/userprofile/erev.html> Mehdi Khamassi (CNRS) <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mehdi_Khamassi> Najib Majaj (NYU) <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Najib_Majaj> The deadline for application is *April 30th, 2019 *and the following is the website including the link for the online application: http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2019.html <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html> <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html> For more information, please contactneurobridges2019(a)gmail.com <mailto:neurobridges2018@gmail.com>.

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Registration open for the UK Neural Computation 2019 meeting
by Mark Humphries 29 Apr '19

29 Apr '19

We are delighted to announce that registration is open for the UK Neural Computation 2019 meeting! The main meeting will be 2nd-3rd July 2019, at the University of Nottingham. Invited speakers: Athena Akrami / Andy Barron / Tim Behrens / Claudia Clopath / Matthias Hennig / Simon Laughlin / Rosalyn Moran / Cian O'Donnell / Chris Summerfield / Tim Vogels / Barbara Webb Please register here: https://drmdhumphries.wixsite.com/ukneuralcomp2019/registration Deadline: June 21st 2019 We are offering a limited number of registrations (25) for early-career researcher workshops preceding the meeting, on Monday July 1st. Please see the Programme for full details at https://drmdhumphries.wixsite.com/ukneuralcomp2019 Abstract submission is still open here: https://drmdhumphries.wixsite.com/ukneuralcomp2019/abstracts Abstract submission closes: May 10th Decisions: May 24th Kind regards Mark Humphries (Chair) Hannes Saal, Robert Schmidt, and Stuart Wilson (Organising committee) This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

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Call for applications: Brains for Brains Young Researchers' Computational Neuroscience Award 2019
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder 11 Apr '19

11 Apr '19

Dear colleagues, It's our pleasure to inform you that for the ninth time, the Bernstein Network<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association> is announcing the "Brains for Brains Young Researchers' Computational Neuroscience Award". The call is open for researchers of any nationality who have contributed to a peer reviewed publication (as coauthor) or peer reviewed conference abstract (as first author) that was submitted before starting their doctoral studies, is written in English and was accepted or published in 2018 or 2019. The award is endowed with a travel grant of 2.000 € to cover a trip to Germany, including participation in the Bernstein Conference 2019 in Berlin (www.bernstein-conference.de<http://www.bernstein-conference.de>), and an individually planned visit to up to two German research institutions in Computational Neuroscience. Deadline for application is April 24, 2019, 2:00 p.m. CET (Application deadline will not be extended!) Detailed information about the application procedure can be found under: https://www.bernstein-network.de/en/the-network/awards/b4b2019 For inquiries please contact bernstein.network(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.network@fz-juelich.de> Best regards, Kerstin Schwarzwälder -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Postdoc position in computational neuroscience at the Gatsby Unit
by Peter Latham 05 Apr '19

05 Apr '19

The Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, a world-class centre for theoretical neuroscience and machine learning, invites applications for one or more postdoctoral training fellowships in theoretical neuroscience. We are looking especially for someone with an interest and/or background in synaptic plasticity and learning. Candidates should have a very strong analytical background in physics, mathematics, statistics, or machine learning, with an emphasis on the use of Bayesian methods in neuroscience, a detailed knowledge and understanding of the literature, and a publication record in highly ranked conferences and journals. Candidates must also have a PhD in a relevant subject area by the agreed start date of the position. Training fellowships are funded by the Wellcome Trust, and are part of a continuing program of training postdoctoral researchers. The position is available for an initial period of two years, and may be renewed to a maximum of three years. To apply, go to http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/vacancies/index.html and click on Research Fellow (Training Fellowship in Theoretical Neuroscience or Machine Learning) Please be sure to attach to your online application a copy of your CV, statement of research interests, and full contact details (including e-mail addresses) of three academic referees. CVs should include education history, details of current or most recent position, and details of previous employment or fellowships. For further details of our research, go to http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/research.html Questions should be directed to Peter Latham, pel(a)gatsby.ucl.ac.uk

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Research Position in NeuroComputing / Computational Neuroscience at TU Chemnitz (Germany)
by Julien Vitay 27 Mar '19

27 Mar '19

A PostDoc or Ph.D. position is available at the Chemnitz University of Technology in the Department of Computer Science. The position is initially until 31.12.2021, starting as soon as possible. The research position is funded by the state of Saxony AI initiative. The goal in our project is to develop brain-inspired cognitive architectures, particularly regarding recurrent dynamics in the prefrontal cortex and their shaping by reinforcement learning processes in the basal ganglia. The proposed neuro-computational approach will rely on reward-modulated recurrent networks (reservoir computing) using closed-loop interactions with the basal ganglia and the thalamus. The model will be tested against behavioral and physiological data and its functional properties will be compared to classical machine learning approaches. The ideal candidate should have prior experience in neural networks, neurocomputing or computational neuroscience and sufficient programming experience. Very good English reading and speaking skills are required. German language skills are not required, but the willingness to learn German would be useful. The salary is according to German standards (E 13 TV-L, 75%). The university is an equal opportunity employer. Women are encouraged to apply. Disabled applicants will receive priority in case they have equal qualifications. Chemnitz is the third-largest city of the state of Saxony and close to scenic mountains. Major cities nearby are Leipzig and Dresden with a rich tradition of music and culture. Applications should be sent by email (preferably in PDF format) to ( fred.hamker(a)informatik.tu-chemnitz.de) as soon as possible. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. Prof. Dr. Fred Hamker Künstliche Intelligenz Fakultät für Informatik TU Chemnitz 09107 Chemnitz www: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/informatik/KI/index.php.en

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PhD position in Machine Learning at Imperial College London
by MyPAJudith 27 Mar '19

27 Mar '19

PhD position in Machine Learning in the Clopath lab under the joint supervision of Dr Claudia Clopath (Imperial College London) and Dr Razvan Pascanu (DeepMind London) -----------------Description-------------- This is a 3-year, fully-funded PhD position at Imperial College London. The position will be co-supervised by Dr. Claudia Clopath (head of the lab) and Dr. Razvan Pascanu (Research Scientist at DeepMind). The student will be based in the Clopath lab. The focus of the PhD will be on machine learning while drawing inspiration from computational neuroscience. In particular, the main themes will revolve around Deep Learning and Deep Reinforcement Learning. The research will be published at conferences such as NeurIPS, ICML or ICLR. An *incomplete* list of topics of interest could include: Theory of Deep Learning/Deep Reinforcement Learning Understanding learning dynamics Representational power of neural networks Exploiting our understanding of dopamine for training RL systems Topics around introducing structure in neural networks (e.g. Graph-Nets) Optimization for neural networks (theory/application) Understanding memory in recurrent models/attention based models (improve the memory capacity of RNNs) Meta-learning/Continual learning or exploration in RL systems Although we welcome the student’s suggestion for potential projects. ---------------Requirements-------------------- The perfect candidate has a strong background in maths, physics, engineering or related fields. Machine Learning background is a plus but not necessary. The candidate should have strong programming skills (knowledge of tensorflow/pytorch would be a plus but not required). Interest in neural networks research and experience is a plus. Due to the funding requirement of the position, the candidate should be an *EU or British citizen*. The funding/position will not be affected by the Brexit outcome. ------------ The lab ------------ The Computational Neuroscience Laboratory is very young and dynamic, and publishes in prestigious journals and conferences. It is part of the Department of Bioengineering, which conducts state-of-the-art multidisciplinary research. The lab is at Imperial College London, the 3rd ranked university in Europe, is in the top 10 worldwide, and is located in the city centre of London. More information can be found at: http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/c.clopath/ DeepMind is a company focusing on AI and ML research, with world-wide recognized expertise. Its research centers around Deep Learning and Reinforcement Learning, with successes such as AlphaGo, first AI winning against a human professional at the game of Go. More information here: https://deepmind.com/about/. For more info on Razvan Pascanu’s work see https://sites.google.com/view/razp. ----------------- How to apply:----------------- Candidates should send a single pdf file, consisting of a 1 to 2-page motivation letter followed by a CV (including publication list) to judith(a)mypajudith.com, with the subject containing 'PhD_ML_2019'. In addition, candidates should organize two letters of reference to be sent to judith(a)mypajudith.com, with the subject containing 'PhD_ML_2019'. The position is open until filled but the earlier applications will be considered first (first round of consideration will take applications sent before April 10th).

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2019 NEURON Summer Course
by Carnevale, Nicholas 25 Mar '19

25 Mar '19

The 2019 NEURON Summer Course will be held at the Minneapolis campus of the University of Minnesota, from Monday, June 10, through Saturday, June 15. The course will present a thorough introduction to computational modeling of neurons and networks with NEURON, and is suitable for individuals at all levels of expertise. The registration deadline is Friday, May 31, 2019. No applications will be accepted after that date, and there will be no on-site registration. Space is limited, and applications will be considered in the order received. For more information and the on-line registration form, see https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/summer2019/summer2019.html --Ted

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The Virtual Brain - Node #8 Workshop [Marseille, May 20-21]
by Jan Fousek 25 Mar '19

25 Mar '19

Get up to speed about the fundamental principles of full brain network modeling using the open-source neuroinformatics platform The Virtual Brain (TVB) at our 2-day workshop held in Marseille on May 20-21, 2019 . TVB NODE#8 takes place ahead of NeuroFrance2019; be sure to register for both! TVB enables biologically realistic modeling of network dynamics using Connectome-based approaches across different brain scales. Generate macroscopic neuroimaging signals including fMRI, intracranial and stereotactic EEG, surface EEG and MEG for single subjects. Personalized brain network models can be derived from an individual’s MRI data. Researchers from different backgrounds can benefit from an integrative software platform including a supporting framework for data management (generation, organization, storage, integration and sharing) and a simulation core written in Python. Applications to use cases in the healthy and diseased brain are explicitly presented. Workshop program overview: * Theoretical background of large scale brain network modeling * Architecture of The Virtual Brain * Interacting with TVB using GUI and Python CLI * Preprocessing neuroimaging data, or how to obtain a TVB dataset * Clinical applications of The Virtual Brain: modeling epilepsy * Modeling brain dynamics in brain tumor patients * Fitting the brain model parameters to the functional data * Modeling resting state networks * Modeling brain stimulation and mouse brains * Modifying TVB code and implementing new features * Optional: bring your own data LOCATION Aix-Marseille Université - Faculté de Médecine Campus La Timone Bâtiment Pédagogique 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin Marseille, France 13005 REGISTER HERE: https://tvb-node8.eventbrite.ca The workshop is organized with interleaved oral presentation and hands-on sessions. Attendants will have the time to ask questions. The hands-on sessions will let you immediately apply the concepts from the lectures to your simulations in TVB. *Bring your own device.* Refreshments will be available during the breaks and lunch will be provided. *WORKSHOP HAS LIMITED ATTENDANCE* *Registration will be closed on April 29th.* More information: https://www.thevirtualbrain.org/tvb/zwei/newswire-event-single/243713-works… Please contact Jan Fousek (jan.fousek at univ-amu.fr) if you have any questions. Jan Fousek INS - Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes UMR INSERM 1106, Aix-Marseille Université 27 Bd Jean Moulin 13005 Marseille France https://ins-amu.fr/

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Course announcement : CAMP@Bangalore 2019
by Bhanu Priya 24 Mar '19

24 Mar '19

We would like to announce CAMP@Bangalore 2019 from 27 June 2019 to 12 July 2019. CAMP (Computational Approaches to Memory and Plasticity at NCBS, Bangalore) is a 16-day summer school on the theory and simulation of learning, memory and plasticity in the brain. The course consists of four modules covering sub-cellular electrical models, micro-circuits and network models, detailed models with electrical and chemical components, and systems level models, all with an emphasis on learning, memory and plasticity. The flavor of this edition of CAMP will be Synaptic Plasticity. Students worldwide are encouraged to apply. Accommodation and food will be free for the selected students. There is no registration fee. Students are advised to obtain independent travel grants. Application deadline : 6 April, 2019. Please check the course website http://camp.ncbs.res.in/ for more details. Course Organizers: Arvind Kumar (KTH Stockholm) Rishikesh Narayanan (Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore) Suhita Nadkarni (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune) Upinder Bhalla (National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore) -- Bhanu Priya S Graduate Student Dr. Upinder Bhalla Lab National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore, India

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post-doc position, Moreno-Bote lab, Barcelona
by Ruben Moreno Bote 23 Mar '19

23 Mar '19

*Post-doctoral position* *Computational Neuroscience, Moreno-Bote Lab * *University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain* We are looking for strong post-doctoral candidates interested in joining the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Rubén Moreno-Bote lab. We are looking for excellent post-doctoral candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background, ideally with knowledge of Neuroscience or Computational Neuroscience, and interested in theory and applications. The publication record of the candidate should be very strong in his/her respective discipline. The candidate will develop state of the art mathematical techniques to understand neuronal dynamics and will have access to multielectrode recording neural data. He/she could also be involved in the design of electrophysiology experiments through our collaborators. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format, a 1 page-long project in pdf format, and names and email addresses of 2 referees should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu Informal inquiries are welcome. DEADLINE: up to the position is filled STARTING DATE: preferably any time between September 2018 and January 2019 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote

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Job opening in Computational Neuroscience: Scientist for press and public relations work - focus on designing public presentations on a part-time basis
by Martina Reske 22 Mar '19

22 Mar '19

The Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM) at Forschungszentrum Jülich, investigates the structure and function of the human brain on different spatial and temporal scales within the research program “Decoding the Human Brain”. The INM focuses on the structure and function of the healthy and diseased human brain, its variability, and its development during a lifetime. It aims to understand the structural and functional changes caused by neurological and psychiatric disorders and thus to improve their early diagnosis and treatment. Scientists from various disciplines have therefore joined forces, employing state-of-the-art imaging techniques such as structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), microanatomy, cell biology, genetics, and the methods used in physics and information science. The INM-6, Computational and Systems Neuroscience, develops mathematical models of the dynamics and function of neural circuits. These include model-driven analysis of brain activity and structure, and the simulation of biologically realistic models. The subinstitute is also part of the Institute of Advanced Simulation (IAS-6, Theoretical Neuroscience) and hosts the coordination office (BCOS) of the national Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience. The INM-6 is strongly involved in the EU flagship project "Human Brain Project" (HBP, http://www.humanbrainproject.eu/) and leads several work packages in the subproject Theoretical Neuroscience as well as in the platforms Neuroinformatics, Brain Simulation and High-Performance Analytics and Computing. Together with its partners, the INM-6 develops leading codes for simulation (http://www.nest-initiative.org/) and data analysis (https://python-elephant.org/) on the brain scale with the resolution of individual nerve cells in an open source approach. We are looking to recruit a Scientist for press and public relations work - focus on designing public presentations on a part-time basis Your Job: * Development of the communication strategy and communication management of the institute * Development of concepts for graphic presentations and public relations of the institute as well as their creative implementation for various PR formats and scientific journals and media * Creation of popular scientific articles, placement of announcements in the media, design of texts, presentations and graphics in compliance with the corporate design * Inspection, analysis and evaluation of very complex, technically difficult and thematically diverse scientific information for the provision of information tailored to the target group * Planning and design of scientific graphics, figures, texts and audiovisual or interactive media for the visualization of scientific contents of the institute as well as their integration into the international scientific community * Development of new concepts for the institute website and for social media channels, including the creation and maintenance of a Twitter or Instagram account for the institute * Identification of high-profile research results and their preparation for the internet * Reworking of material prepared by scientists, e.g. image, text, video and graphic data, according to the target group * Preparation, revision and editing of scientific and non-scientific publications and presentations in German and English language * Graphic creation and preparation of scientific talks and lectures * Coordination and participation in the creation of posters and institute flyers * Taking scientific photographs or films and editing them digitally * Coordination of the work with the graphic service units of the research centre * Preparation, organization and monitoring of internal and external scientific events * Training of executives and scientists in dealing with the media Your Profile: * A university degree in physics, mathematics or biology or alternatively a university degree in communication & media sciences and very good knowledge of physics, mathematics and biology * Very experienced handling of graphics and video software such as GIMP, Inkscape as well as common Adobe applications * Good experience in dealing with the media and social media * Experience in writing German and English scientific and/or administrative texts * Experience with Linux, LaTeX and Python is desirable * Very good knowledge of layout and website editing systems * Very good knowledge of written and spoken English * Very independent and proactive working style * Pertinence and sensitivity to the specific needs of the customer Our Offer: * Exciting working environment on an attractive research campus with excellent infrastructure, located between the cities of Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen * International and interdisciplinary working atmosphere * Working in a creative team with an international perspective * World-class work at the interface between neuroscience and technology on the most complex known systems * A comprehensive further training programme * Flexible working hours and various opportunities to reconcile work and private life * A part-time job with 19,5 hours per week * Limited for 2 years with possible longer-term prospects * Salary and social benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD) Forschungszentrum Jülich aims to employ more women in this area and therefore particularly welcomes applications from women. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. We look forward to receiving your application, preferably online<https://www.hrecruiting.de/obf2/bewerbermanagement.php?kunden_nr=t5ChjatkIf…> via our online recruitment system on our career site until 14.04.2019, quoting the reference number 2019-126. Questions about the vacancy? Contact us by mentioning the reference number 2019-126: career(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:career@fz-juelich.de?Subject=Questions%20about%20the%20vacancy%202019-126&body=You%20can%20use%20this%20field%20to%20send%20us%20questions%20about%20the%20job%20advertisement%20you%20have%20selected.%20If%20you%20would%20like%20to%20apply%20for%20the%20position%2C%20please%20note%20that%20this%20is%20only%20possible%20via%20our%20online%20application%20portal.> Please note that for technical reasons we cannot accept applications via email. -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> Office hours: TU & FR 9.00-17, WE & TH 9.00-13 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Junior Scientist Workshop on Advanced Neural Data Analysis 2019 in NYC
by Rainer Engelken 20 Mar '19

20 Mar '19

*Junior Scientist Workshop on Advanced Neural Data Analysis 2019 <https://ctn.zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/junior>* August 26th - 29th 2019, New York City, USA Hosted by the Center for Theoretical Neuroscience <https://ctn.zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/> at Columbia University Apply HERE <https://goo.gl/forms/xqlaJYZA7tiuhlWX2> by May 15 (11:59 p.m. EST): This workshop is intended for PhD students and postdocs who want to learn and share with their peers new advanced techniques in data analysis and apply them to complex neural datasets. During the workshop, attendees will present their research projects, followed by a hands-on programming tutorial on the computational techniques used in their work. The purpose is to gain a detailed understanding of the complexity of data and of the appropriateness of the different analysis techniques. The ideal participants are theoreticians with experience in analyzing experimental data as well as computationally minded experimentalists. By mixing a group of scientists with a diverse background but with overlapping goals of uncovering structure in neural data, the participants will learn an array of techniques and foster fruitful collaborations. The workshop will include presentations, tutorial sessions and lots of time and space for unfiltered in-depth discussions and data hacking sessions. We envision tutorials both on advanced data analysis as well as on specific experimental techniques and data processing. Participants are therefore expected to contribute with code or data to share and a reasonable dose of energy for giving tutorials on their work. Data and/or code can come in any format, including artificially generated data, but we encourage to make them available in a form that everyone can explore them with minimal overhead. Any data is shared only within the workshop. In order to foster an interactive atmosphere and allow everyone to give a detailed description and tutorial of their work, the workshop will be limited to a small group of participants. Participants will be provided with funds to cover travel, accommodation, and meals. We encourage applications from female scientists and those belonging to underrepresented minorities. The Junior Scientist Workshop is organized in partnership with the NeuroNex Theory Team at the University of Houston <https://neuronex.org/projects/13> and funded by NSF's NeuroNex <https://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=242652> initiative. The 2019 workshop will be held at Columbia University's Jerome L Greene Science Center <https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jerome+L.+Greene+Science+Center/@40.81685…>. Organizers: Fabio Stefanini, Mario Dipoppa, Rainer Engelken, Krešimir Josić, and Ashok Litwin-Kumar. ************************************************************* Rainer Engelken Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute Columbia University pgp fingerprint: F94E 83D9 77AB 76F6 15E9 1503 3AD6 FCDC 410B 14F2 re2365(a)columbia.edu ctn.zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu *************************************************************

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PhD Positions Available in Computational Neuroscience at Simula/UiO
by Kimberly McCabe 19 Mar '19

19 Mar '19

The Simula School for Research and Innovation seeks applicants for 3 *PhD positions* offered as part of a larger collaborative PhD programme between Simula, the University of Oslo (UiO), and the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). This programme has been named SUURPh (the Simula-UiO-UCSD Research and PhD training programme), and more details can be found on the programme home page <https://www.simula.no/education/educational-partnerships/suurph-programme>, and on the page for SUURPh applicants <https://www.simula.no/education/educational-partnerships/suurph/suurph-appl…> . Detailed descriptions of the projects being offered can be found on the Projects Page <https://www.simula.no/education/educational-partnerships/suurph/available-s…>. Each project will require slightly different expertise and experience, but all are within the scope of *computational biology *and medicine. Thus, Simula and UiO are seeking motivated and independent students from a wide range of training backgrounds, but particularly with a strong working knowledge in computational and quantitative sciences to take up these doctoral fellowships. The duration of SUURPh doctoral fellowships will be 3 years, and the time of initiation will vary depending on the project but can be as early as August 1st 2019. All Simula-based SUURPh fellows will be enrolled as PhD students at the University of Oslo Mathematics and Natural Sciences Faculty. An additional unique feature of the SUURPh programme is that SUURPh fellows will be required to conduct a portion of their doctoral research in San Diego. As such, all applicants should be prepared and eager to spend a portion of their degree (generally 6 months – 1 year) at UCSD. Applicants are also obligated to meet academic standards for PhD students at UiO, including receipt of a Master’s Degree by June 30, 2019. The deadline for applications is April 15, with hiring decisions expected by mid-June. Details regarding available projects, application requirements, and the hiring process can be found through our online application portals (through Simula <https://www.simula.no/about/job/simula-school-research-and-innovation-seeks…> or UiO <https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/166324/phd-fellowships-avail…>). UiO is separately advertising 4 PhD positions for this programme, and applicants are welcome to rank projects from both the Simula and UiO sections during the application process. Please feel free to forward this announcement to those who may be interested. If you have any questions, you may direct them to the programme coordinator Kim McCabe (kimberly(a)simula.no) Best, Kim Kimberly McCabe SUURPh Programme Coordinator Simula School for Research and Innovation

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post-doc positions at UCL, Space and Memory group of Neil Burgess
by Bicanski, Andrej 18 Mar '19

18 Mar '19

Two post-doc positions at University College London, in the Space and Memory group, with Neil Burgess Two post-doc positions are available at the UCL Inst of Cognitive Neuroscience with Neil Burgess’ Space and Memory group (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/icn/people/neil-burgess) Posts are until Sept 2021 in the first instance, extension contingent on further funding. Candidates will perform research in human cognitive and computational neuroscience that should complement the group’s current work, which includes: MEG decoding of sequential planning [1]; 3T and 7T fMRI of neural mechanisms in imagery, memory, navigation [2-4]; the effects of emotional content on memory [5]; intracranial recording in epilepsy patients [6]; computational modelling of imagery, memory and the roles of grid and place cells [7,8]. Researchers will collaborate with related work on grid and place cells in rodent virtual reality [9] and related groups at the ICN, Welcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour and the wider UCL neuroscience community. For details and to apply, please see https://tinyurl.com/yyhr3kzr The deadline is 9th April. selected recent publications: 1. Kornysheva et al (2019) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2019.01.018 2. Horner et al (2016) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2016.01.042 3. Horner et al (2015) https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms8462 4. Grande et al (2017) http://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/4376/presentation/7698 5. Bisby & Burgess (2017) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2017.07.012 6. Bush et al (2017) https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1708716114 7. Bicanski & Burgess (2018) https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.33752.001 8. Bicanski & Burgess (2019) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.01.077 9. Chen et al (2019) https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-08550-1 Dr. Andrej Bicanski Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience University College London 17 Queen Square, WC1N 3AZ London, UK www.andrejbicanski.com<http://www.andrejbicanski.com>

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Tenure-track position: Theoretical and Computational Neurophysics, University of Calgary, Canada
by Nicola, Wilten 18 Mar '19

18 Mar '19

Tenure-track position: Theoretical and Computational Neurophysics, University of Calgary, Canada The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Calgary seeks outstanding candidates for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor, in the area of theoretical and computational neurophysics. The successful candidate is expected to establish an independent research program related to the fundamentals of brain and neural dynamics at the intersection of physics and neuroscience. Theoretical, computational and data-driven areas of interest in modeling neural systems include neural dynamics, plasticity, information propagation, and network neuroscience. Link: https://careers.ucalgary.ca/jobs/3670741-assistant-professor-theoretical-an… Deadline: May 31, 2019 --- Dr. Jörn Davidsen Associate Professor of Physics & Humboldt Research Fellow University of Calgary www.ucalgary.ca/complexity/davidsen<http://www.ucalgary.ca/complexity/davidsen>

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MSc Neuroscience program University of Freiburg, Germany
by Carsten Mehring 18 Mar '19

18 Mar '19

MSc program in Neuroscience - University of Freiburg, Germany We are inviting applications for the interdisciplinary MSc program in Neuroscience at the University of Freiburg, Germany. The program provides theoretical and practical training in neuroscience, covering both the foundations and the latest research in the field. It is taught by lecturers from an international scientific community from three faculties and two neuroscience research centres. The modular course structure caters to the specific backgrounds and research interests of each individual student and we offer specialisations in computational neuroscience, neuro-/optophysiology, neurotechnology and genes,circuiots & behaviour. All courses are taught in English. We welcome applications with a background in natural sciences, mathematics, behavioural sciences, computer science or engineering sciences. The deadline for applications for the October 2019 entry is the 31st of May 2019. Further details can be found on our homepage http://www.mscneuro.uni-freiburg.de <http://www.mscneuro.uni-freiburg.de/> Please contact mscneuro@uni-freiburg,de for further questions. With kind regards Carsten Mehring University of Freiburg

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INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE, Beijing, August 2019
by Rava A. da Silveira 16 Mar '19

16 Mar '19

*CNeuro**: International Summer School and Workshop* *in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience* *Tsinghua University, Beijing (August 2019)* *Background* How intelligence and behavior emerge from complex and intricate interactions within the brain remain important and unsolved mysteries in modern science. In the last decade, we have seen rapid progress in experimental tools that now make it possible to monitor and manipulate brain circuits in unprecedented detail. This research area presents both challenges and opportunities for experimentalists and theoreticians. The complexity and dynamics of the brain make it difficult to tackle its mechanisms and functions with experimental approaches alone. Mathematical theory is pivotal for obtaining new insights and for guiding experiment, as well as for identifying and unifying concepts and principles of brain functions. The aim of the two-week summer school and workshop will be to introduce students with strong quantitative background (e.g., in mathematics, theoretical physics, computer science, or engineering) to the emerging field of theoretical and computational neuroscience. The course will also bring together leading scientists in theoretical and computational neuroscience. We envision a collaborative environment where faculty and students will have in-depth discussions on topics in the frontier of neuroscience. The course will be a pedagogical basis for new students, introducing them to advanced mathematical methods and modeling approaches that are currently being used and developed to understand brain functions. *Time* 15 – 29 August 2019 *Location* The summer school will be held at the Tsinghua Laboratory of Brain and Intelligence (THBI), at Tsinghua University, in Beijing. THBI is a flagship project of the university. It is a new interdisciplinary research institute recently established by Tsinghua University, with dedicated faculty positions and research space. The institute aims to conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research across the fields of systems and computational neuroscience and artificial intelligence. The institute occupies three floors in a newly renovated building with large classrooms for teaching and computer labs, and ample offices for visiting scholars. *Organizers* Xiaoqin Wang, Johns Hopkins University and Tsinghua University Aravi Samuel, Harvard University Rava Azeredo da Silveira, Ecole Normale Supérieure Quan Wen, University of Science and Technology of China Sen Song, Tsinghua University *Faculty* Yoram Burak, The Hebrew University Dmitri Chklovskii, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation Michael Hausser, University of College London Yu Hu, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Dezhe Jin, Penn State University Jian Liu, University of Leicester Cengiz Pehlevan, Harvard University Aravi Samuel, Harvard University Rava Azeredo da Silveira, Ecole Normale Supérieure Sen Song, Tsinghua University Louis Tao, Peking University Srinivas Turaga, Janelia Research Campus Xiaoqin Wang, Johns Hopkins University and Tsinghua University Quan Wen, University of Science and Technology of China Kechen Zhang, John Hopkins University *Applications* Please send a CV and a statement of purpose to thbi(a)tsinghua.edu.cn Application deadline: *20 May 2019* *Housing* International students will be housed on the Tsinghua University campus.

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PhD Comp Neuro position, Moreno-Bote lab, Barcelona
by Ruben Moreno Bote 16 Mar '19

16 Mar '19

*PhD Position in* *Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote Lab * *Center for Brain and Cognition, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain* 1 fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote in the Center for Brain and Cognition at the University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. We are looking for excellent candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background interested in developing theory for the brain and mind. Knowledge of Computational Neuroscience or Neuroscience would be ideal, but it is not necessary. The candidate will develop state of the art theory and models to understand neuronal dynamics and coding and will have access to multielectrode recording neural data. She/he could also be involved in the design of monkey and human behavioral experiments and the development of models of visual perception, decision making and working memory. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (https://www.upf.edu/web/ruben-moreno-bote) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format and an extract of grades for degree and master studies should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu DEADLINE: until the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between September 2019 and January 2020 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote

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[CALL FOR PAPERS] IEEE/WIC/ACM International Conference on Web Intelligence (WI'19) 14-17 OCTOBER 2019 Thessaloniki, GREECE
by Gigg Liu 16 Mar '19

16 Mar '19

IEEE/WIC/ACM International Conference on Web Intelligence (WI'19) 14-17 OCTOBER 2019 Thessaloniki, GREECE https://webintelligence2019.com/ Sponsored By: Web Intelligence Consortium (WIC) Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) IEEE Computer Society In Cooperation With: Chinese Computer Federation (CCF) CALL FOR PAPERS Web has evolved as an omnipresent system which highly impacts science, education, industry and everyday life. Web is now a vast data production and consumption platform at which threads of data evolve from multiple devices, by different human interactions, over worldwide locations under divergent distributed settings. Such a dynamic complex system demands adaptive intelligent solutions, which will advance know-ledge, human interactions and innovation. Web intelligence is now a cutting edge area which must address all open issues towards deepening the understanding of all Web’s entities, phenomena, and developments. The theme for the WI'19 is: "Web Intelligence = AI in the Connected World". The 18th Web Intelligence conference (WI'19) aims to achieve a multi-disciplinary balance between research and technological disruptive advances in the fields of how intelligence is impacting the Web of People, the Web of Data, the Web of Things, the Web of Trust, and the Web of Health. WI'19 welcomes research, application as well as Industry/Demo track paper submissions in these core thematic pillars under wider topics, which demand WI innovative and disruptive solutions for any of the next indicative sub-topics. Track 1: Web of People Social networks analytics Social media and dynamics User and behavioral modeling Human centric computing Opinion mining Recommendation engines Sentiment analysis Crowdsourcing and social data mining People oriented applications and services Track 2: Web of Data Data science and machine learning Big data analytics Data integration and data provenance Cognitive models Computational models Information search and retrieval Algorithms and knowledge management Knowledge bases and semantic networks Linked data management and analytics Data driven services and applications Track 3: Web of Things IoT data analytics Web infrastructures and devices Mobile web Distributed systems and devices Open autonomous systems Industrial multi-domain web Streaming data analysis Smart city applications and services Track 4: Web of Trust Hidden web analytics Blockchain analytics and technologies Web-scale security, integrity, privacy and trust Web cryptography Fake content and fraud detection Web safety and openness Monetization services and applications Track 5: Web of Health Personalized health management and analytics Health data exchange and sharing Big data in medicine Wellbeing and healthcare in the digital era Omics research and trends Healthcare and medical applications and services IMPORTANT DATES The Program Chairs are soliciting contributed technical papers for presentation at the Conference and publication in the Conference Proceedings by ACM. Submissions are encouraged before the next deadlines: Feb 20th, 2019: Workshop Proposals May 12th, 2019: Full Papers; Demo papers; Tutorial proposals June 30th, 2019: Notification of Acceptance/Rejection July 14th, 2019: Final, Camera Ready Papers, Due PAPER SUBMISSION Please follow guidelines: https://wi-lab.com/cyberchair/2019/wi19/scripts/submit.php?subarea=Wr/. Papers must be submitted electronically via Cyberchair in standard ACM format (max 8 pages). Submitted papers will undergo a peer review process, coordinated by the International Program Committee. ORGANIZATION General Chairs Georg Gottlob, UK Yannis Manolopoulos, Cyprus Program Chairs Payam Barnaghi, UK Athena Vakali, Greece Steering Committee Chairs Jiming Liu, HK, China Ning Zhong, Japan Track Chairs Panagiotis Bamidis, Greece Marios Dikaiakos, Cyprus Elena Ferrari, Italy Josiane Xavier Parreira, Ireland Herman Purohit, USA Workshop Chairs Dimitrios Katsaros, Greece Rahul Pandey, USA Demo Chairs Amelie Gyrard, USA George Pallis, Cyprus Proceedings Editor Theodoros Tzouramanis, Greece Publicity Chairs Karin Becker, Brasil Leonidas Anthopoulos, Greece Yang Liu, Hong Kong Xujuan Zhou, Australia

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Post-Doc position: HuRRiCane project (deadline 27/03)
by Xavier Hinaut 15 Mar '19

15 Mar '19

Dear Colleagues, I would like to share the following post-doc position opening in my team (see below) with the title: HuRRiCane: Hierarchical Reservoir Computing for Language Comprehension If you know people interested, please forward. Thank you very much. Best regards, Xavier Hinaut Inria Researcher (CR) Mnemosyne team, Inria LaBRI, Université de Bordeaux, France Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives +33 5 33 51 48 01 www.xavierhinaut.com --- Title HuRRiCane: Hierarchical Reservoir Computing for Language Comprehension Post-doc position for 1 year Starting October 2019 Deadline for applications Send email ASAP and before 27th of March 2019 Apply on before 31st of March 2019 How to apply? All info here: https://sites.google.com/site/xavierhinaut/job-internship-offers/post-docto… Remuneration 2653€ / month (before taxes) Keywords Computational Neuroscience, Recurrent Neural Networks, Reservoir Computing, Language Processing, Language Acquisition, Speech Processing, Modeling, Language Grounding, Prefrontal Cortex, Sequence Learning, Machine Learning. Scientific research context How does our brain understand a sentence at the same time as it is pronounced? How are we able to produce sentences that the brain of the hearer will understand? There is a huge number of tools for Natural Language Processing (NLP), but there is fewer computational models that try to understand how language comprehension and production works effectively in the brain. There are theoretical models or models based on psychological experiments (Dell & Chang 2014), but few models are based on neuro-anatomy and brain processes (Hinaut & Dominey 2013). Moreover, even fewer of these models have been implemented in robots, to demonstrate their robustness among other things (Hinaut et al. 2014). Using robots to study language grounding, acquisition and development is not a new topic, in fact Cangelosi et al. (2010) have proposed a roadmap to tackle this long research plan. In order to model how a sentence can be processed, word by word (Hinaut & Dominey 2013), or even phoneme by phoneme (Hinaut 2018), the use of recurrent neural networks such as Reservoir Computing (Jaeger 2004), and its extension, the Conceptors (Jaeger 2017), offers advantages and interesting results. In particular, the possibility to compare the dynamics of the model with the dynamics of brain electrophysiological recordings (Enel et al. 2016) is an interesting asset. The Reservoir Computing paradigm is also interesting because it can be trained with few data and have quick execution time for human-robot interactions. The use of linguistic models with robots, is not only useful to validate the models in real conditions: it also enables to test other hypotheses, notably the anchoring of the language (Harnard 1990) or the emergence of symbols (Taniguchi et al., 2016). Work description The objective is to experiment how a sentence comprehension model, based on reservoir computing, can learn to understand sentences by exploring which meanings can have the sentences, implying several steps from stream of phonemes to words and from stream of words to sentence comprehension. The model will be implemented on a virtual agent first and then on the Nao humanoid robot For the experiments we want to make, a model implemented in a situated agent or robot is needed in order to "understand" the meaning of the utterance which is being told and figure out whether the meaning is plausible or not. If the meaning found does not make sense, the model could "re-parse" the sentence and reinterpret it. Moreover, we prefer to have a concrete corpus of based on actions a robot can do rather than abstract sentences of the Wall Street Journal (a classical benchmark). We have already performed several experiments with both sentence comprehension and production models with humanoid robots such as iCub and Nao (Hinaut et al. 2014, Twiefel et al. 2016). Having a plausibility measure of a meaning will allow us to set up a cascading reinterpretation if necessary, first from the word level, and if that is not enough, to reinterpret the phonemes to find new plausible words. There exists two main types of observations made with an electroencephalogram (EEG) with human subject: P600 and N400. They are assumed to correspond to syntactically or semantically reinterpretations of the sentence. The model developed will have to account for these induced observations. In Hinaut & Dominey (2013), we showed that our model could provide an equivalent of P600 when a sentence was syntactically complex. This project is linked to other projects in the team on the hierarchical organization of the prefrontal cortex (including Broca's area, involved in language). This hierarchy corresponds to an increasingly higher abstraction, which is made by different sub-areas. We will therefore be able to link this post-doc project to existing projects of the team, where different levels of abstractions are necessary for sentence comprehension. Main References - G. S. Dell, & F. Chang (2014) The P-chain: Relating sentence production and its disorders to comprehension and acquisition. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 369(1634). - H. Jaeger, (2017) Using conceptors to manage neural long-term memories for temporal patterns. The Journal of Machine Learning Research, 18(1), 387-429. - X. Hinaut, P.F. Dominey (2013) Real-Time Parallel Processing of Grammatical Structure in the Fronto- Striatal System: A Recurrent Network Simulation Study Using Reservoir Computing. PloS ONE 8(2): e52946. - X. Hinaut, M. Petit, G. Pointeau, P.F. Dominey (2014) Exploring the Acquisition and Production of Grammatical Constructions Through Human-Robot Interaction. Frontiers in NeuroRobotics 8:16. - Hinaut, X. (2018). Which Input Abstraction is Better for a Robot Syntax Acquisition Model? Phonemes, Words or Grammatical Constructions? In 2018 Joint IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning and Epigenetic Robotics (ICDL-EpiRob). Skills Good background in computational neuroscience, computer science, physics and/or mathematics; A strong interest for neuroscience, linguistics and the physiological processes underlying learning; Python programming with experience with scientific libraries Numpy/Scipy (or similar programming language: matlab, etc.); Experience in machine learning or data mining; Independence and ability to manage a project; Good English reading/speaking skills. French speaking is not required Benefits package Subsidized meals Partial reimbursement of public transport costs Possibility of teleworking (after 6 months of employment) and flexible organization of working hours Professional equipment available (videoconferencing, loan of computer equipment, etc.) Social, cultural and sports events and activities Access to vocational training Social security coverage

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