March 2022 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

SCGB Virtual Postdoc/Student Meeting: Monday, March 14 by James Roach

by Laura Long

The Simons Collaboration on the Global Brain (SCGB) hosts postdoc/student meetings to bring together trainees interested in neural coding and dynamics to discuss ideas and data. In addition to regional meetings in New York, Boston, and the Bay Area, SCGB holds a Global virtual series to connect systems and computational neuroscientists across the world. We would love to see you at our next Global meeting! Please see event details and the Zoom link below. SCGB Global Postdoc/Student Meeting: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scgb-global-postdocstudent-meeting-tickets-277… Monday, March 14th, 1pm Eastern Time https://simonsfoundation.zoom.us/j/97652465539?pwd=YkdYaTBGOGU0c1NyUzV1d1Jr… Passcode: 188122 *James Roach*Postdoctoral Researcher, Churchland Laboratory University of California, Los Angeles *Two roles for choice selective inhibition in decision-making circuits* During perceptual decision-making, the firing rates of cortical neurons reflect upcoming choices. Recent work showed that excitatory and inhibitory neurons are equally selective for choice. However, the functional consequences of inhibitory choice selectivity in decision-making circuits are unknown. We developed a circuit model of decision-making which accounts for the specificity of inputs to and outputs from inhibitory neurons. We found that selective inhibition expands the space of circuits supporting decision-making, allowing for weaker or stronger recurrent excitation when connected in a competitive or feedback motif. The specificity of inhibitory outputs sets the trade-off between speed and accuracy of decisions by altering the attractor dynamics in the circuit. Recurrent neural networks trained to make decisions display the same dependence on inhibitory specificity and the strength of recurrent excitation. Our results reveal two concurrent roles for selective inhibition in decision-making circuits: stabilizing strongly connected excitatory populations and maximizing competition between oppositely selective populations. *Please note that this meeting is open to all neuroscience postdocs and PhD students, regardless of location or SCGB affiliation (sorry, no PIs). *After Q&A with the speaker, we will open breakout rooms for anyone interested in staying to chat, network, or further discuss the talk. In addition to these breakouts, SCGB Scientific Staff will be available for "office hours" to chat and answer questions about SCGB programs and support. Registration on EventBrite is encouraged but not required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scgb-global-postdocstudent-meeting-tickets-277… Please contact Laura Long at llong(a)simonsfoundation.org with any questions.

March 11, 2022

Multiple Postdoctoral Scholar Positions at Washington University in St. Louis

by Shuo Wang

We are looking for multiple highly motivated postdoctoral scholars to work on NSF, DoD, and NIH funded projects. Projects include but are not limited to using human single-neuron recordings to study the neural circuits underlying social attention and using fMRI to study face perception in people with autism. The research will be conducted in a highly collaborative environment using state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and analytical methods. The postdoctoral scholars will collaborate with an established team of investigators within and outside WashU and have ample opportunity to learn new techniques and methods. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in systems, cognitive, or computational neuroscience, or in physics, electrical engineering, or computer science, with relevant research expertise in neuroscience. Applicants must also have strong programming (Matlab or similar) skills. Our lab combines multimodal and advanced measurement techniques with sophisticated computational approaches to understand the neural mechanisms and neural computations underlying social attention, face processing, emotion, memory, and decision making. Overarching questions involve how the brain figures out what is important in the environment, how socially relevant stimuli pop out and attract attention, how faces are processed and represented in general, and how memory is modulated by attention. We are particularly interested in the neural computations underlying these cognitive processes: multimodal approaches allow us to investigate these questions from the microscopic single-neuron and neural circuit level using our state-of-the-art human single-neuron recordings as well as macroscopic level using fMRI, EEG, and intracranial EEG (sEEG and ECoG). These multimodal experimental approaches are powered by sophisticated computational approaches that can deal with complex and large datasets. The Wang Neuroscience Lab is housed in the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (MIR) at the Washington University School of Medicine (WUSM) in St Louis. WUSM is a world class research intensive academic health center that is consistently ranked among the nation’s research-oriented medical schools. Additionally, it is nationally known for its attractive campus, which borders residential neighborhoods and one of the nation’s largest urban parks. St. Louis is consistently rated a Forbes most affordable city with vibrant music, food and park scene, and has one of the fastest growing start-up communities with impressive accelerator and incubator services available through the Biogenerator, Cambridge Innovation Center, and Cortex Innovation District. Shuo Wang, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Washington University in St. Louis https://sites.wustl.edu/wanglab/

March 11, 2022

Applications open for BRAINS: please forward!

by Adrienne L Fairhall

Dear colleagues, Applications are now open for an NINDS funded, national professional development program dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion in neuroscience (*BRAINS: Broadening the Representation of Academic Investigators in NeuroScience*. BRAINS uses a unique cohort-based professional development approach to explicitly address the inclusion, retention, and advancement of early career (post Ph.D. and pre-tenure) neuroscientists from historically underrepresented and marginalized groups. The BRAINS experience positively impacts participants’ career trajectories, especially in academic neuroscience, and creates perpetually empowering communities. For more information about our program, visit the BRAINS website [https://advance.washington.edu/brains/] To apply, go to: https://advance.washington.edu/brains/program/application. Applications will be accepted until April 25, 2022. If you have questions, feel free to contact Sheri Mizumori (mizumori(a)uw.edu ).

March 11, 2022

Neuro tool projects with INCF in Google Summer of Code - open to all beginners to open source

by Malin Sandström

Dear all, tell your friends and colleagues - for the first time, the Google Summer of Code <https://summerofcode.withgoogle.com> Program is open to all beginners and newcomers to open source. INCF participates as a mentoring organization for the 12th time. This year, we offer 50 different projects suggested and mentored by tool developers in the neuroscience community. If you are interested in becoming an open source contributor, this program is a fantastic opportunity! Links: INCF Ideas List for 2022 <https://docs.google.com/document/d/131tHl3Ao3aJ_KbfOdZbeDog3sovhHhx_5fobchc…> Google Summer of Code FAQ <https://developers.google.com/open-source/gsoc/faq> Google Summer of Code 2022 timeline <https://developers.google.com/open-source/gsoc/timeline>Recommendations for GSoC contributors <https://www.incf.org/recommendations-gsoc-contributors> Google Summer of Code guides for mentors and students <https://developers.google.com/open-source/gsoc/resources/guide> Read our blog about GSoC 2022 <https://incf.org/blog/incf-applies-gsoc-2022> Best regards, Malin INCF Org Admin for GSoC 2022 -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org ORCID: 0000-0002-8464-2494 International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org

March 11, 2022

Call for Abstracts: 31st Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2022) in Melbourne

by Thomas Nowotny

Organization for Computational Neurosciences Call for Abstracts We are inviting abstracts for the 31st Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2022) - Melbourne, Australia July 16-20, 2022 The main meeting begins the evening of Saturday, July 16 and runs through Tuesday, July 19. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Saturday, July 16) and followed by workshops (Tuesday, July 18 mixed with the main meeting and Wednesday, July 19 workshops only). Keynote Speakers Michael Breakspear,<https://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/michael-breakspear> The University of Newcastle Tara Hamilton, University of Technology Sydney Joseph Lizier<https://www.sydney.edu.au/engineering/about/our-people/academic-staff/josep…>, The University of Sydney Kristin Sellers<https://profiles.ucsf.edu/kristin.sellers>, University of California, San Francisco Registration and abstract submission will open Monday, March 14th. Abstract submission deadline: April 15th, 2022. Note that one of the authors must register as sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Submitted abstracts are used for creating the program and for publication. Please follow the formatting guidelines on the submission site. Travel awards are available for student and postdoc members of OCNS. Please apply using the drop-down box on the abstract submission form and note that an extended abstract is required when applying for a travel award or oral presentation format. Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/cns-2022-registration Abstract submission for main meeting: https://cns.confmaster.net/ For up-to-date conference information, please visit: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2022 Workshop proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2022-call-for-workshops Tutorial proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2022-call-for-tutorials Thomas Nowotny, Vice-President OCNS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OCNS is the international member-based society for computational neuroscientists. Become a member to be eligible for awards and other benefits. Visit our website for more information: http://www.cnsorg.org<http://www.cnsorg.org/> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

March 10, 2022

Call for Satellite Workshop Proposals, Bernstein Conference 2022 in Berlin

by Bernstein Communication

+++ The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops preceding the Bernstein Conference 2022 in Berlin. +++ ____ BERNSTEIN CONFERENCE Each year the Bernstein Network invites the international computational neuroscience community to the annual Bernstein Conference for intensive scientific exchange. It has established itself as one of the most renown conferences worldwide in this field, attracting students, postdocs and PIs from around the world to meet and discuss new scientific discoveries. www.bernstein-conference.de<http://www.bernstein-conference.de> ____ IMPORTANT DATES - Satellite Workshops: September 13 - 14, 2022 o Tuesday, Sep 13, 14:00 – 18:00 CEST o Wednesday, Sep 14, 8:30 – 12:30 CEST - Main Conference: September 14 – October 16, 2022 - Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: +++ April 10, 2022 +++ - Notification of workshop acceptance: planned in early May 2022 ____ WORKSHOP PROPOSALS The pre-conference Satellite Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster extensive discussion and debate, rather than a series of talks. Proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. We aim at organizing workshops in Berlin, please ask potential speakers about their availability for the in-person meeting. In addition, there might be a possibility for a few hybrid workshops. Selection criteria for workshop proposals will include scientific excellence, topical relevance and diversity in gender and career level of the selected speakers. Submit your workshop proposal here: https://indico3-jsc.fz-juelich.de/event/9/registrations/2/ +++ Deadline: April 10, 2022– not to be extended +++ ____ FINANCIAL SUPPORT Workshop registration is free for all organizers and speakers of workshops. Workshop organizers will additionally receive a waiver for the main conference fee. From the accepted workshops up to ten workshops will be selected to receive financial support of up to 1500 € each. ____ WORKSHOP SELECTION COMMITTEE Moritz Helias (Workshop Chair) Anna Levina (Workshop Vice Chair) Raoul Memmesheimer (Conference Chair) Christian Machens (Program Chair) Tatjana Tchumachenko (Program Vice Cahir) Megan Carey Brent Doiron Tatjana Engel Christian Leibold Timothy O’Leary Srdjan Ostojic Cristina Savin Mark van Rossum Friedemann Zenke ____ For any further questions, please contact: bernstein.conference(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.conference@fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

March 10, 2022

Postdoc position in plasticity in blindness and handlessness (Washington DC)

by Ella Striem-Amit

*Postdoctoral researcher position in visual and/or motor brain plasticity* The sensory and motor plasticity lab at Georgetown University (PI: Ella Striem-Amit) is looking for a passionate and dedicated postdoctoral researcher to study brain plasticity in congenital visual and/or motor deprivation. The SAMP lab explores the balance between innate brain organization and experience-dependent plasticity by studying people born blind or born without hands using behavioral and fMRI state-of-the-art analytical techniques. Relevant projects include (but are not limited to) exploring individual differences in brain plasticity and action execution without hands. For more details, see https://samp-lab.facultysite.georgetown.edu/people/opportunities. A Ph.D. in a relevant field, experience with fMRI data analysis, and strong programming skills are required. Experience with behavioral methods used in visual, multisensory, or motor control is desirable but not a requirement. The position is not limited to US citizens. The start date is flexible. This position is available for two years and can be extended further based on performance. The lab is located at Washington DC, USA. To apply, please send your CV and a brief statement of research interests by email to Dr. Ella Striem-Amit (Ella.StriemAmit(a)georgetown.edu) with the subject line: “post-doc application”. Georgetown University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer fully dedicated to achieving a diverse faculty and staff. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. -- *Ella Striem-Amit (she/her)* Sensory and Motor Plasticity (SAMP) Lab Edwin H. Richard and Elisabeth Richard Assistant Professor Department of Neuroscience Georgetown University Medical Center 3970 Reservoir Rd., NW Washington, DC 20007 http://samp-lab.facultysite.georgetown.edu/

March 9, 2022

INCF accepted to GSoC 2022!

by Heather Topple

For the 12th time, INCF has been accepted as a mentoring organization for Google Summer of Code! Many core INCF community tools have been improved, extended, and made more interoperable as a result of GSoC (such as LORIS, The Virtual Brain, Open Source Brain, the Brian simulator, the Active Segmentation plugin for ImageJ, and more). For this round, tool developers in the INCF community have proposed 50 possible projects that they would be willing to mentor, from a range of different neuroscience fields. Please spread the word to anyone you feel would be interested! Learn more: bit.ly/INCFGSoC2022blog Talk directly with mentors on Neurostars: bit.ly/GSoC2022Neurostars Full project ideas list: bit.ly/GSoC2022ideas Best regards, /The INCF Secretariat ---------------------------- Heather Topple, BSc *Project Assistant* *Development and Communications* International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Secretariat Karolinska Institutet. Nobels väg 15A, SE-171 77 Stockholm. Sweden <https://www.google.com/maps/search/Nobels+v%C3%A4g+15A,+SE-171+77+Stockholm…> Email: heather(a)incf.org Phone: +46 085 248 70 65 incf.org neuroinformatics.incf.org

March 9, 2022

Postdoc in “InsectNeuroNano” at Edinburgh

by Barbara Webb

A postdoctoral research associate position is available computational and neuromorphic modelling studies of navigation systems in the insect brain, as part of the InsectNeuroNano project and under the joint direction of Professor Barbara Webb (Edinburgh) and Professor Elisabetta Chicca (Gronigen). The InsectNeuroNano project proposes the development of nanophotonic on-chip devices for integrated sensing and neural computation, inspired by the insect brain. It is a Horizon funded project with partners from Lund University (nano-devices, neurobiology), University of Copenhagen (semi-conductors, organic dyes), University of Gronigen (neuromorphic engineering) and University of Edinburgh (insect robotics). As proof of concept, we target the complete pathway from polarised light sensing in the insect eye to the internal compass and memory circuits in the central complex by which this information is integrated in a continuous accurate estimate of location. Within this project, the main role of the RA will be to take results from both anatomical and physiological studies and condense these into computational models, to abstract key principles of circuit function, as an essential bridge to hardware design. The position is available immediately and runs to 31 March 2024, but note there will then be a further 24 months funding at Gronigen and ideally the same person will continue in this RA role on the project for its 4 year duration. The salary range is £34,304 - £40,927 per annum. Candidates are expected to have a PhD in a relevant discipline and a strong background in computational neuroscience, including substantial experience in modelling neural circuits, with a track record of good journal publications in this area. The candidate is also expected to have good programming and system engineering skills, and ideally experience in working with robots, or relevant dynamic tasks involving sensorimotor control and learning. They should be willing to work with hardware systems where necessary. Candidates with direct experience and knowledge of insect neuroscience will be preferred. Informal enquiries can be directed to: Professor Barbara Webb (B.Webb(a)ed.ac.uk) Further information and application details are available here: https://elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1… The closing date for applications is 5th April 2022 The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. Is e buidheann carthannais a th’ ann an Oilthigh Dhùn Èideann, clàraichte an Alba, àireamh clàraidh SC005336.

March 9, 2022

Postdoc in “Insect AI” at Edinburgh

by Barbara Webb

A postdoctoral research associate position is available to undertake computational modelling studies of learning mechanisms in the insect brain and apply them to robot control and navigation problems, contributing to the project Insect AI under the direction of Professor Barbara Webb, in the School of Informatics at the University of Edinburgh. The position is available immediately, runs to 31 December 2023, and has a salary range of £34,304 - £40,927 per annum. Candidates are expected to have a PhD in a relevant area and a strong background in computational neuroscience, including substantial experience in modelling neural circuits, with a track record of good journal publications in this area. The candidate is also expected to have good programming and system engineering skills, and ideally experience in working with robots, or relevant dynamic tasks involving sensorimotor control and learning. They should be willing to work with hardware systems where necessary. Candidates with direct experience and knowledge of insect neuroscience will be preferred. Informal enquiries can be directed to: Professor Barbara Webb (B.Webb(a)ed.ac.uk) Further information and application details are available here: https://elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1… The closing date for applications is 7th April 2022 The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. Is e buidheann carthannais a th’ ann an Oilthigh Dhùn Èideann, clàraichte an Alba, àireamh clàraidh SC005336.

March 9, 2022