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

Creating a list of important computational predictions
by Yiota Poirazi Jan. 4, 2021

Jan. 4, 2021

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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PhD Positions in Computational Neuroscience at the University of Hertfordshire
by Volker Steuber April 30, 2020

April 30, 2020

PhD Positions in Computational Neuroscience Biocomputation Research Group Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research University of Hertfordshire UK Applications are invited for PhD positions in the Biocomputation Research Group at the University of Hertfordshire. Projects involve the development and simulation of models of neurons and neuronal networks to study information processing in the brain and /or the application of machine learning techniques for the analysis of neural data. A description of our research interests and a list of publications can be found on our webpage (http://biocomputation.herts.ac.uk/). Applicants should have excellent computational and numerical skills and a very good first degree in computer science, biology, maths, physics, neuroscience, or a related discipline. Successful candidates are eligible for a research studentship award from the University (GBP 15,009 per annum bursary plus payment of the student fees). Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible. Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognised as excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework Assessment, with 50% of the research submitted rated as internationally excellent or world leading. The Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialised and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training and researcher development opportunities. The University is situated in Hatfield, in the green belt just north of London. Please contact Dr Volker Steuber for informal enquiries. Application forms are available under http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research… and should be returned to [https://www.herts.ac.uk/__data/assets/image/0016/203434/uhsociallogo.png]<http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research…> The PhD Programme in Computer Science<http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research…> See a list of exciting research topics www.herts.ac.uk Lynette Spelman and Emma Thorogood Research Student Administrators University of Hertfordshire College Lane Hatfield, Herts AL10 9AB tel: +44 (0)1707 286083 doctoralcollegeadmissions(a)herts.ac.uk The short-listing process will begin on 1 July 2019.

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[publication and call for dialog] IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems
by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer Jan. 23, 2020

Jan. 23, 2020

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 Jan. 13, 2020

Jan. 13, 2020

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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Data Scientist Position at Boston University
by Chen, Jerry Nov. 5, 2019

Nov. 5, 2019

The Lab of Jerry Chen at Boston University is hiring a Data Scientist to be involved in several multi-year BRAIN Initiative related NIH and NSF funded projects. These projects focus on understanding cortical computation during behavior by combining large-scale population recordings, anatomical reconstructions, and transcriptional profiling as well as developing tools for large-scale and high-speed imaging of neuronal populations. This person will be involved in help to analyze experimental data, developing software tools to aid in the data analysis, and helping with data infrastructure and management. Specific Projects include: 1. Analysis of dense electron microscope reconstructions of neuronal connectivity (ie. Connectomics) 2. Establishing pipeline for image analysis for in situ sequencing of gene expression 3. Establishing pipeline for automated behavioral training and analysis. 4. Visualization and analysis of population imaging data across multiple brain areas during behavior. This person will be jointly involved and mentored by personnel from the Hariri Institute's Software & Application Innovation Lab (SAIL), a center with expertise in cutting-edge computational and data-driven research with tangible and direct impacts on academic research, public service, and industry partners in healthcare, finance, and technology. Qualifications: BA/BS degree (MA or PhD preferred) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Neuroscience or related technical field. One to three years of academic or professional experience. Programming experience in MATLAB is required. Additional experience in Python, C++, or LABView is preferred. Extensive background in either computational neuroscience, image analysis, computer vision, or machine learning is preferred. If interested in applying, please submit a CV along with 3 references to jerry(a)chen-lab.org<mailto:jerry@chen-lab.org>.

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6th ESI Systems Neuroscience Conference "The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality". Registration + Abstract submission are now open
by MFES, events May 31, 2019

May 31, 2019

6th ESI Systems Neuroscience Conference "The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality" 5-6 September 2019 Frankfurt am Main, Germany =========================================== The Ernst Strüngmann Institute Systems Neuroscience Conference (ESI SyNC) 2019 will take place this year on September 5th and 6th at the Ernst Strüngmann Institute in Frankfurt, Germany. This year's theme is 'The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality'. The conference will feature eleven internationally renowned speakers who will give talks on neural feedback, signal dimensionality, and temporal dynamics. Ample time for both formal and informal discussion has been included in the schedule. There will also be a poster session for which we welcome submissions. Confirmed speakers =========================================== Sacha van Albada Alessandra Angelucci Carina Curto Peter Dayan Thomas Fraps Nikolaus Kriegeskorte Jakob Macke Tatyana Sharpee Fred Wolf Rafael Yuste Li Zhaoping Registration and abstract submission are now open! =========================================== For more information and to register for the conference or submit a poster presentation, please visit: www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/<http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/> Or contact: esi-sync(a)esi-frankfurt.de<mailto:esi-sync@esi-frankfurt.de> Limited spaces are available, so early registration is encouraged. Best Regards, The ESI SyNC 2019 organizing team: Wolf Singer Pascal Fries Renata Vajda William Barnes Christini Katsanevaki Katharine Shapcott Cem Uran Yiling Yang

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Threshold Networks conference - Nottingham
by Stephen Coombes May 30, 2019

May 30, 2019

Threshold Networks July 22 - 24, 2019 Nottingham, UK https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/conference/fac-sci/maths-sci/threshold-network… <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notti…> This workshop will bring together a community of people interested in both networks and dynamics, with an eye to both mathematical tractability and applications to biology, engineering, physics, and the social sciences. The emphasis will be on ‘thresholds’ in their broadest sense as exemplified by node dynamics or interactions that are described by simple, yet possibly non-smooth or discontinuous switch-like processes. The workshop will cover both theory and applications. The meeting will have no parallel sessions, and it is expected to involve around 60 participants (with 11 main speakers) and contributed poster presentations. Speakers: Chris Bick, University of Exeter, UK Mario Di Bernardo, University of Bristol, UK Ginestra Bianconi, Queen Mary University of London, UK Jonathan Crofts, Nottingham Trent University, UK Des Higham, University of Strathclyde, UK Renaud Lambiotte, University of Oxford, UK Naoki Masuda, University of Bristol, UK Peter Mucha, University of North Carolina, USA Sarah Muldoon, University at Buffalo, USA Yamir Moreno, University of Zaragoza, Spain Mason Porter, UCLA, USA We are accepting abstracts for poster presentations at ThresholdNetworks2019(a)nottingham.ac.uk <mailto:ThresholdNetworks2019@nottingham.ac.uk> The registration fee for the conference is 100.00 GBP. A “Tutorial Day” (covering key concepts in dynamical systems and network science) will also take place prior to the meeting (on July 21). Some financial assistance may be available to assist graduate students who attend both the training workshop and the conference. Further details of this meeting and how to register may be found at https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/conference/fac-sci/maths-sci/threshold-network… <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notti…> Scientific Organisers Yi Ming Lai, Rüdiger Thul, and Stephen Coombes, University of Nottingham Mason A. Porter, UCLA Enquiries should be sent to: ThresholdNetworks2019(a)nottingham.ac.uk <mailto:ThresholdNetworks2019@nottingham.ac.uk> 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 abstracts: RSS2019 Workshop "Pervasively Neuro-Dynamic Robotics"
by Yulia Sandamirskaya May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Dear Colleagues, we are excited to invite you to attend the Workshop “Pervasively Neuro-Dynamic Robotics: Do insights from neuroscience, cognitive science, and neuromorphic engineering lead to a radically new vision?”: https://www.ini.rub.de/rss2019-workshop/ <https://www.ini.rub.de/rss2019-workshop/> The workshop will be held on June 23 (afternoon) 2019 in Freiburg, Germany, as part of the Robotics Science and Systems (RSS) 2019 conference: http://www.roboticsconference.org <http://www.roboticsconference.org/> We invite submissions of 1-2 page abtracts describing recent work on neuronal and cognitive architectures than emphasize autonomy of behavior generation. The selected abstracts will be invited to be presented as a Demo showing autonomous generation of behavior and/or Poster showing a recent example of a neuronal cognitive architecture You can submit your abstract by email to ysandamirskaya(a)ini.uzh.ch <mailto:ysandamirskaya@ini.uzh.ch> . Please, make sure that your submission contains your institutional address. If you like, you can attach a photo, which we will upload on the Workshop's webpage. Deadline for submission: 8. June 2019! Decisions will be announce on June 10. We are looking forward to your submissions and our discussions during the workshop! Yulia Sandamirskaya and Gregor Schöner — Workshop organisers — — Dr. Yulia Sandamirskaya Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI) UZH / ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich E-mail: ysandamirskaya(a)ini.uzh.ch <mailto:ysandamirskaya@ini.uzh.ch> Tel: +41 44 63 53045 www.sandamirskaya.eu <http://www.sandamirskaya.eu/> https://neurotechai.eu <https://neurotechai.eu/>

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Multiple postdoc positions uOttawa
by Richard Naud May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Multiple postdoc positions uOttawa Theoretical neuroscience, nonlinear/statistical physics, cellular electrophysiology and imaging, computational neuroscience University of Ottawa Multiple theoretical, computational and experimental neuroscience postdoctoral positions are available immediately at the Centre for Neural Dynamics of the University of Ottawa. Position 1: Theoretical neuroscience and nonlinear/statistical physics focusing on the dynamics of a population of core recurrent neurons within the hippocampus and their role in temporal and spatial memory. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. Len Maler, André Longtin and Jean-Claude Béïque. Position 2: Experimental and computational neuroscience focusing on dendritic integration. Expertise in cellular electrophysiology and/or computational neuroscience is an asset. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. Richard Naud and Jean-Claude Béïque. Position 3: Computational and experimental neuroscience focusing on dendritic integration and recurrent circuitry. Expertise in cellular electrophysiology and/or computational neuroscience is an asset. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. André Longtin, Richard Naud, Jean-Claude Béïque and Len Maler. The researcher will join uOttawa’s Brain and Mind Research Institute’s Center for Neural Dynamics. uOttawa’s Neuroscience community is fast expanding, highly dynamic and offers a rich array of collaborative opportunities. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a green, multi-cultural city that offers the highest standard of living in the country and is second worldwide for quality of life (Numbeo index, 2015). The city has many parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal, and is surrounded by an extensive greenbelt and the vast Gatineau Park twenty minutes away. This bilingual, safe and culturally-rich city lies along the border between the provinces of Ontario and Québec, is a few hours of driving away from Montréal and Toronto and served by an international airport. Each position is for one year with automatic renewal for a second year following satisfactory progress, and a possible extension to a third year. Interested candidates should submit their CV and a brief statement of research interests to alongtin(a)uottawa.ca<mailto:alongtin@uottawa.ca> . The successful candidate would be a salaried employee of the University with a competitive remuneration and benefits package. Jean-Claude Béïque André Longtin Len Maler Richard Naud

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IBRO-SIMONS COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IMBIZO 2020 #isiCNI2020
by Antrobus, Alexander May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

We would like to draw your attention to the fourth IBRO-SIMONS COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IMBIZO #isiCNI2020 5 - 26 January 2020, Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town, South Africa http://imbizo.africa/ Application deadline: 30th June 2019 The #isiCNI2020 is a southern hemisphere summer school aiming to promote computational neuroscience in Africa. It will bring together international and local students under the tutelage of the world's leading experts in the field. Like its international sister courses, this three-week summer school aims to teach central ideas, methods, and practices of modern computational neuroscience through a combination of lectures and hands-on project work. Mornings will be devoted to lectures on topics across the breadth of experimental and computational neuroscience. The rest of the day will be spent working on research projects under the close supervision of expert tutors and faculty. Individual research projects will focus on the modelling of neurons, neural systems, behaviour, the analysis of state-of-the-art neural data, and the development of theories to explain experimental observations. Who should apply? This course is aimed at Masters and early-PhD level students though Honours or advanced undergraduates may also apply. Postdoctoral students who can motivate why the course would benefit them are also encouraged to apply, Students should have sufficient quantitative skills, (e.g. a background in mathematics, physics, computer science, statistics, engineering or related field). Some knowledge of neural biology will be useful but not essential. Experimental neuroscience students are encouraged to apply, but should ensure that they have a reasonable level of quantitative proficiency (i.e. at least second-year level mathematics or statistics and have done at least one course in computer programming). Please distribute this information as widely as you can. Essential details * Fee (which covers tuition, lodging, and meals): 1100 EUR Thanks to out generous sponsors, significant financial assistance is available to reduce and waiver fees for students, particlualry for African applicants. We also hope to provide some travel bursaries for interrnational students. If you are in need of financial assistance to attend the Imbizo, please state so clearly in the relevant section of your application. * Application deadline: 30th June 2019 * Notification of results: late August 2019 Information and application https://imbizo.africa/<http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/> Questions? isicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com<mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com> What is an Imbizo? \ɪmˈbiːzɒ\ | Xhosa - Zulu A gathering of the people to share knowledge. INVITED FACULTY Dora Angelaki - Baylor College of Medicine Demba Ba - Harvard University Adrienne Fairhall - Washington University Ila Fiete - University of Texas Peter Latham - University College London Timothy Lillicrap - Google DeepMind Blake Richards - University of Toronto Joseph Raimondo - University of Cape Town Srikanth Ramaswamy - EPFL Lausanne Athanassia Papoutsi - IMBB-FORTH Thomas Tagoe - University of Ghana Andrew Trevelyan - Newcastle University Misha Tsodyks - Weiszmann Institute of Science Tim Vogels - University of Oxford Byron Yu - Carnegie Mellon University Organisers Christopher Currin (University of Cape Town, South Africa) Emma Vaughan (Conference Managemant Centre) DIRECTORS Peter Latham (Gatsby Unit for Computational Neuroscience, UCL, UK) Joseph Raimondo (University of Cape Town, South Africa) Tim Vogels (University of Oxford, UK) Sponsors The isiCNI is made possible by the generous support from the Simons Foundation (https://www.simonsfoundation.org<https://www.simonsfoundation.org/>) and the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO) (http://ibro.info<http://ibro.info/>) Organizational Affiliates University of Cape Town, University College London, University of Oxford, TReND in Africa<http://trendinafrica.org/>, CNCB<http://www.cncb.ox.ac.uk/>, Gatsby Foundation<http://www.gatsby.org.uk/>, IBRO African Center for Advanced Training in Neurosciences at UCT

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PhD positions in Neuromorphic olfaction
by Michael Schmuker May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

PhD positions in Neuromorphic machine learning, AI and robotics for chemical sensing Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire UK We are seeking candidates who want to join an international team of researchers with the goal to push the boundaries of chemical discovery. We use machine learning, AI and robotics to develop new methods for chemical sensing (electronic noses), gas-based navigation in robots, and knowledge discovery in chemical space. Our group leverages a new kind of computing hardware, so called neuromorphic systems, to translate processes from the brain into algorithms for efficient computing. We take inspiration from neuroscience to develop massively parallel, event-based, and power-efficient algorithms for machine learning, inference and control. Possible project topics include: * Bio-inspired signal processing and pattern recognition for chemical sensing, * Gas-based navigation for robots, * Deep learning for fragrance and aroma discovery, * Computing on neuromorphic hardware. Candidates with diverse skill profile are most welcome, e.g. with a background in: * Machine learning and AI, or * Neuroscience and neural computation, or * Signal processing and computer engineering, or * Fragrance/aroma chemistry and computational chemistry methods . Successful candidates are eligible for a research studentship award from the University (GBP 15,009 per annum bursary plus payment of the student fees). Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible, too. Please contact Dr Michael Schmuker for informal inquiries (m.schmuker(a)biomachinelearning.net ). Application forms and instructions how to apply are available under http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research… . The short-listing process will begin on 1 July 2019. — Dr Michael Schmuker AFHEA Reader in Data Science Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire https://biomachinelearning.net

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Research Fellow(s), Max Planck UCL Centre London
by Fischer, Susan May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Research Fellow(s) Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology MAX PLANCK UCL CENTRE FOR COMPUTATIONAL PSYCHIATRY AND AGEING At the Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, we are seeking multiple suitably qualified postdoctoral fellows for a new initiative with Telefónica Innovación Alpha. The overarching goal is to exploit computational approaches to brain and behaviour to leverage insights into core deficits that underpin behavioural change and mental well-being. The postholder will be directly involved in tech-transfer of the research results achieving an immediate real-world impact and improving mental health of the general population. Supervision will be provided by Ray Dolan, Steve Fleming, Tobias Hauser, Quentin Huys, and Robb Rutledge. Applicants must have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in neuroscience, psychology, or a quantitative field (e.g. Computer Science, Engineering, Physics). Expertise using computational approaches in the study of reinforcement learning and decision making or expertise with machine learning techniques is essential, so is knowledge of theoretical and computational neuroscience in relation to learning and decision making. Experience in fMRI and/or MEG is desirable. Experience in smartphone-based data acquisition and in collaborating with industry and start-ups and/or in supporting tech-transfer is desirable. Positions are available as soon as possible and are funded for 2 years in the first instance. Starting salary on the UCL Grade 7 scale, £35,328 – £42,701 pa, inclusive of London Allowance, superannuable. You should apply for this post through UCL's online recruitment – www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs<http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs> where you can download a job description and person specification using ref: 1803769. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Miss E Bertram, Personnel Manager, UCL Institute of Neurology, (email: IoN.HRAdmin(a)ucl.ac.uk<mailto:IoN.HRAdmin@ucl.ac.uk>). It would be helpful if applicants could provide a telephone number that they can be contacted on during office hours. Applicants may contact Professor Ray Dolan directly (email: r.dolan(a)ucl.ac.uk<mailto:r.dolan@ucl.ac.uk>) for further information. Closing date: 2 June 2019 ________________________________ Susan Fischer Research Coordinator (London) Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research Russell Square House 10-12 Russell Square London, WC1B 5EH Tel: +44 (0)207 679 8187 https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en Follow us on Twitter: @MPC_CompPsych<https://twitter.com/MPC_CompPsych>

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[High Performance Computing] Become a specialist!
by Master in HPC May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

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Wellcome Trust funded four-year PhD programme in Neural Dynamics.
by Conor Houghton May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

We are looking for applicants to the Neural Dynamics four-year PhD programme at the University of Bristol; this is to fill one place to join the cohort starting in September 2019. http://www.bristol.ac.uk/neural-dynamics/ <http://www.bristol.ac.uk/neural-dynamics/> We offer a generous four-year studentship stipend, PhD registration fees at the current Home/EU rate, substantial research expenses, and funds for travel to conferences or courses. We are able to waive the international fee for a successful international student. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 19 June 2019. All the best Conor Houghton

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Job Openings in Neuromorphic Computing
by Peter Blouw May 28, 2019

May 28, 2019

Applied Brain Research <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/> (ABR) is a company that develops software and builds AI applications <https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PL0Xs4sfQU-Q1MeTNaizzFWYv1Xz3ua7ZA&v=mua…>using neuromorphic methods and hardware. Our fifteen person team spun out of a computational neuroscience lab at the University of Waterloo, and works with world leading industrial partners and has early access to cutting edge technology to develop the next generation of AI hardware <https://vimeo.com/262517015>. We are growing. We are looking to hire for two positions: an FPGA Design Engineer <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/careers/?jobId=85z2t_rOLoOR>, and a Machine Learning Engineer <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/careers/?jobId=pyH1jqKudezj>. Further details about each position can be found by following the links above. For any general questions, feel free to contact info(a)appliedbrainresearch.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Barcelona summer school for Advanced Modelling of Behavior (BAMB!) - Application deadline June 3
by Klaus Wimmer May 28, 2019

May 28, 2019

Applications to the new Barcelona summer school for Advanced Modelling of Behavior (BAMB! <http://www.bambschool.org>) are open until June 3rd. Please see the course website for further details: www.bambschool.org. BAMB! <http://www.bambschool.org> teaches advanced techniques in model-based analysis of behavior (humans and other species) to cognitive and computational neuroscientists at PhD and early career levels. This will be achieved through structured lectures, talks, hands-on tutorials and group project aimed at making knowledge obtained directly applicable to the participants' own research. We want the trainees to acquire both the conceptual bases and the technical skills that will enable them to pursue a full modelling approach on their own when they come back to their lab. The course is intended for PhD students and postdocs in cognitive and computational neuroscience with solid background in computational/quantitative analysis to benefit maximally from the advanced training offered by the course. Proficiency in either Python or Matlab is also required. We will seek a nice blend of experimentalists (cognitive psychology / neuroscience) and theoreticians (with or without experience in cognitive modeling).Female scientists and scientists from underrepresented countries are especially encouraged to apply. Dates and location: September 4-10, downtown Barcelona, Spain Organizers: Chris Summerfield (Oxford / Deepmind) Klaus Wimmer (CRM, Barcelona) Alex Hyafil (UPF/CRM, Barcelona) Confirmed Faculty: Jean Daunizeau (ICM, Paris) Alex Hyafil (UPF/CRM, Barcelona) Kerstin Preuschoff (Geneva) Alfonso Renart (Champalimaud) Maneesh Sahani (UCL) Chris Summerfield (Oxford / Deepmind) Klaus Wimmer (CRM, Barcelona) Angela Yu (UC San Diego) The summer school benefits from the generous support of the William K. and Katherine W. Estes Fund <https://www.psychologicalscience.org/members/awards-and-honors/estes-fund>, from the Sociedad Española de Neurociencia <http://www.senc.es/> and from the Centre de Recerca Matemática <http://www.crm.cat>.

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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 May 27, 2019

May 27, 2019

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 The Program Chairs are soliciting contributed technical papers for presentation at the Conference and publication in the Conference Proceedings by ACM. 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 in Computational Neuroimaging of Decision-Making
by Yannis Delis May 26, 2019

May 26, 2019

We are looking to appoint a postdoctoral fellow to make a leading contribution to an EU-funded project on the neurobiology of human decision making. The post will be based at the School of Biomedical Sciences of the University of Leeds. The aim of our research is to characterise the spatiotemporal dynamics and the computational principles of the brain networks underlying the processing of multisensory information, the formation of perceptual decisions and the execution of subsequent actions. To this end, we use multimodal recordings including neuroimaging (EEG), motor signals (EMGs and kinematics) and behavioural data coupled with advanced multivariate analysis methods and computational modelling. We develop computational methodologies inspired by machine learning, statistical signal processing, information theory and Bayesian modelling to fuse data from different modalities, extract the main patterns of brain activity and characterise their functional roles with respect to the task at hand. The goal of this project will be to unravel the neural representations of the mental processes implicated in the processing of (multi-)sensory information and the formation of perceptual decisions. Candidates must have previous practical experience in EEG recordings and data analysis as evident by a strong track record of publications in international journals. Working knowledge of multivariate data analysis techniques and excellent programming skills in Matlab and/or Python are highly desirable. Interested candidates are invited to contact Dr. Ioannis Delis (*i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk <i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk>*), email their CV and briefly explain their interest in this position. Starting date is flexible.

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ReScience C : special issue on 2019 ICLR Reproducibility Challenge in machine learning
by Nicolas Rougier May 23, 2019

May 23, 2019

Dear all, It’s my great pleasure to announce that selected papers from the 2019 ICLR Reproducibility Challenge in machine learning (coordinated by J.Pineau) have been published in ReScience C and are freely accessible at: ReScience C, volume 5, issue 2 (2019), ICLR Reproducibility Challenge 2019 https://rescience.github.io/read/#volume-5-2019. If you’re interested in organizing a challenge or editing a special issue, feel free to contact me. Nicolas Rougier, ReScience C editor-in-chief.

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Call for Papers: Special Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience"
by Dimitrije Markovic May 22, 2019

May 22, 2019

Dear Colleagues, You are cordially invited to submit a manuscript to Special Entropy Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience" https://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy/special_issues/Computational_Neuroscie… Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2020 With best regards, Claudius Gros and Dimitrije Markovic Abstract ====== Brains empower living organisms with extraordinary information processing capabilities. Complex spatio-temporal dependencies present in their environments may be learned, long- and short-term memories of experiences and plans regarding the future. Importantly, information processing in the brain happens over multiple spatio-temporal scales, from single synapses and synaptic terminals to dendritic trees and neuronal bodies, all the way up to neuronal networks and large brain areas. Hence, it is not surprising that information theory has led to many exciting developments in computational neuroscience, providing tools essential for our modern understanding of the computational principles that govern the development, structure, physiology, and dynamics of the nervous system. In this Special Issue, we aim to bring together neuronal models and neuronal plasticity mechanisms that are grounded in information theory principles, modern inference, and learning algorithms. We welcome submissions that use information theory as the basis for defining generative principles of neuronal dynamics over multiple spatio-temporal scales, which informs our understanding of information processing in the brain. ============================= Dr. Dimitrije Markovic Post-Doc at Technische Universität Dresden, Department of Psychology, Dresden, Germany Lab website: https://tu-dresden.de/mn/psychologie/ifap/ni Phone: +49-351-463-43146 Personal website: http://dimarkov.github.io/ =============================

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Post-doctoral post in Madrid Brain Dynamics of addiction
by jose luis perez velazquez May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

*Post-Doc position*: *Dynamics of brain activity in addiction and compulsive reward-seeking* Responsible for electrophysiological recordings in behaving animals (rats) using rodent models of reward-seeking and addiction. One year*, starting immediately* Location: Madrid-Spain Dedication: Full time Experience with in vivo electrophysiological recordings in freely behaving animals is required. It would be an asset if the incumbent has some experience with the Skinner box, but is not required (teaching will be provided). Data analysis will involve the scrutiny of brain dynamic patterns in the rodents’ brains during addictive behaviours, using MATLAB codes already available from the investigators. Experience with basic data analysis will be an advantage as well. Contact: Fivos Panetsos, Professor fivos(a)ucm.es Director, Neuro-computing & Neuro-robotics Research Group Complutense University of Madrid Director, Neural Plasticity Research Group Health Research Institute, San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid

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ICTALS 2019 registration open
by Goodfellow, Marc May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

Dear All, Registration is now open for ICTALS 2019 at the University of Exeter 2-5th September 2019. Please see: www.exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019/registration/<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019/registration/> Early bird registration is open until 31 July 2019 at the following rates: Students £250 Faculty/ Clinician £400 Industry £500 Lived experience (non-scientist) £30 for the first 20 registrants. Spaces are limited, so we would encourage you to register as soon as possible. The International Conference for Technology and AnaLysis of Seizures, 2019 (ICTALS2019) will take place at the University of Exeter, September 2nd - 5th 2019. The goal of this conference is to bring together neurologists, neuroscientists, researchers from quantitative disciplines and people with lived experience of epilepsy in order to work as a community to advance our understanding of epilepsy and develop practical ways to improve diagnosis and treatment. This is the second ICTALS conference, which is an evolution of the previous International Workshop on Seizure Prediction (IWSP) series. The theme for this year's conference will be: "The Epilepsy Journey: from first seizure to treatment and beyond". We will emphasise how advances in our understanding of the dynamics of brain networks can be used to make a difference to people with epilepsy at all points of their journey: from elucidating the causes of the first seizure to diagnosing epilepsy, understanding how ictogenic networks give rise to recurrent seizures and how this insight can inform personalised treatment. To encourage this focus on translatable output of research we will seek to include all relevant communities. In addition to focussing on current scientific, clinical and technological advances, we will take steps to increase accessibility for people with lived experience of epilepsy. For further information see http://exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019 We look forward to seeing you in Exeter in September! Best wishes Marc Goodfellow, on behalf of the local organising committee.

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Places left for training courses before INCF's Neuroinformatics 2019
by Malin Sandström May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

Dear all, there are still som places left for the (free) training courses we are arranging in Warsaw on August 31, the day before Neuroinformatics 2019. All courses are free to attend for registered participants. The TVB WS explains fundamental principles of full brain network modelling using the TVB open source neuroinformatics platform. Lectures & hands-on sessions allow participants to immediately apply concepts from the lectures to their simulations. http://bit.ly/2Hs9L7h The HBPBrainSim short course introduces participants to the Brain Simulation Platform (BSP). After the course participants will be able to use the BSP to access HPC systems to configure & run simulations and visualize & analyze simulation results. http://bit.ly/2Ht7AQN The course ‘Neuroscience data integration through use of digital brain atlases’, a combination of lectures & hands-on training, introduces participants to a workflow for spatial integration of morphological features in a 3D reference atlas. http://bit.ly/2HqnPOh See https://www.neuroinformatics2019.org/ for more information. Best regards, Malin -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org

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PhD position in computational neuroscience at the University of Amsterdam (deadline June 6)
by Jorge Mejias May 20, 2019

May 20, 2019

Dear all, A PhD position in computational neuroscience is available at the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group at the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands). The main objective of the project is to investigate the neural mechanisms of multisensory perception and sensory predictions, within the context of a novel theoretical framework of perception and consciousness that is being developed in the Group. These neural mechanisms will be investigated using theoretical and computational approaches based on both biophysically detailed models of corticothalamic circuits and neural network models trained with deep learning strategies. The research is partially funded by the Human Brain Project and will benefit from collaborations with local experimental teams and with other European research groups. The project will be supervised by Jorge Mejias (leader of the Computational Neuroscience Team) and Cyriel Pennartz (head of the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group). We are seeking a highly qualified and motivated candidate with a Master's degree in neuroscience (with strongly developed quantitative skills) or in a related field, including physics, mathematics, computer science, or biomedical engineering. The candidate is expected to have a solid mathematical background (calculus, differential equations, dynamical systems) and strong programming skills (MATLAB, Python). Knowledge in methods of computational neuroscience and deep learning is a plus. English is the official language of the lab, therefore good English communication skills are expected. We offer a full-time appointment for a maximum period of four years (18 months plus a further 30 months after a positive performance evaluation) and should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance to courses and (international) meetings. The gross monthly salary will range from €2,325 in the first year to €2,972 in the final year, according to the Dutch salary scale for PhD candidates. Additional benefits include a holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus (8% and 8.3% of the gross annual salary, respectively) and generous vacation, pension and social security conditions in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. Candidates coming from abroad might also be eligible for highly attractive tax benefits. The lab is located in the state-of-the art facilities of the Science Park at the University of Amsterdam, with good communications with other academic facilities and research centers in the city. The University of Amsterdam is one of the top research universities in Europe, with a strong focus on the research area of brain and cognition. Amsterdam is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with a rich historical and cultural heritage that includes the UNESCO World Heritage city center and canals, dozens of world-class museums and restaurants, and an exciting nightlife. The city promotes a healthy lifestyle with plenty of outdoor life, parks and recreational areas, an excellent bicycle path network, and an expat-friendly environment. The deadline for applications is June 6th, 2019. Applications may only be submitted online by following the link below (where additional information is also provided): https://www.uva.nl/en/content/vacancies/2019/05/19-292-phd-candidate-in-com… Your application must include a CV (including contact details of two academic references) and a letter of motivation. Please combine these documents in one single attachment and also mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience. To enable us to process your application immediately, please quote vacancy number 19-292 and the position you are applying for. For informal inquiries, you may contact Dr. Jorge Mejias (j.f.mejias at uva.nl) of Prof. Cyriel Pennartz (C.M.A.Pennartz at uva.nl). Kind regards, Jorge F. Mejias, PhD Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences Amsterdam, the Netherlands -- Jorge F. Mejias, PhD Assistant Professor Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences University of Amsterdam, 1098XH Amsterdam The Netherlands www.ugr.es/~jmejias

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Postdoc Position: Modeling Language in the Human Brain Using Artificial Neural Networks
by Christopher Honey May 19, 2019

May 19, 2019

MODELING LANGUAGE IN THE HUMAN BRAIN USING ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS A joint postdoctoral position is available in the labs of Christopher Honey and Tal Linzen at Johns Hopkins University. ( https://www.honeylab.org and https://caplabjhu.org ) The goal of this project is to use state-of-the-art artificial neural networks to understand the mechanisms and architectures that enable the human brain to integrate linguistic information at the levels of syllables, words and sentences. For this purpose, the project lead will have access to high-fidelity intracranial recordings from the surface of the human brain, as people process sentences and narratives. In parallel, this project is expected to generate new computational models and analytic methods for natural language processing (NLP), informed and constrained by human data. Johns Hopkins is home to a large and vibrant community in neuroscience and computational linguistics, and the training environment will span the Departments of Cognitive Science, Psychological & Brain Sciences, and Computer Science. The postdoctoral researcher will be affiliated with the Center for Language and Speech Processing, one of the world’s largest centers for computational linguistics (https://www.clsp.jhu.edu/) For candidates who wish to collect new datasets, Hopkins provides a top-notch neuroimaging center, including 3T and 7T scanners; new TMS and EEG facilities housed in the PBS department; and access to human intracranial experiments via neurology collaborators in Baltimore and Toronto. The postdoctoral researcher will have access to a large number of GPUs for training neural networks and other computational models through the Maryland Advanced Research Computing Center. The position is available immediately, though start date is somewhat flexible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The initial appointment is for one year, with the opportunity for renewal thereafter. We especially encourage applications from women and members of minorities that are underrepresented in science. *Qualifications*: Candidates should have (i) a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., linguistics, cognitive science, neuroscience, physics, psychology, mathematics, or computer science) by the start date; (ii) a publication record that includes computational modeling and empirical data analysis. The ideal candidate will have a combined background in computational linguistics, machine learning and neuroscience. *Application Instructions*: To apply, please email a cover letter (including a brief summary of previous research accomplishments and future plans), a current CV, and a relevant publication to neural.language.modeling.jhu(a)gmail.com. In the CV or cover letter, please include contact information for three references. For any questions, feel free to email Chris Honey (chris.honey(a)jhu.edu) and Tal Linzen ( tal.linzen(a)jhu.edu)

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