October 2024 - Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Postdoctoral Researcher position at Goettingen Campus Institute for Dynamics of Biological Networks, University of Goettingen
by von Behren, Christina 16 Dec '24

16 Dec '24

Dear Scientists, The Göttingen Campus Institute for Dynamics of Biological Networks (CIDBN)<https://www.uni-goettingen.de/de/608362.html> invites applications for a position of Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Biophysics (all genders welcome) The position will be full-time (currently 39,8 hours/week), German pay grade 13 TV-L, starting as soon as possible. The CIDBN Department "Physics of Biological Systems", headed by Prof. Fred Wolf, offers a fixed-term contract until June 30, 2025 with the perspective of an extension commensurate with building a competitive track record at the frontier of computational biophysics and neural circuit theory. Information is processed in brain circuits through the coordinated action of large-scale circuits of neurons and synapses. Ultimately, it is the nano-scale molecular architecture of neuronal synapses that can make or break the power of neural circuit computation. Progress in a broad suite of nanoscopy techniques is currently uncovering the molecular-level design of synapses subserving functions such as working memory or sensory coding. The spatio-temporal operation of these nano-machines and the efficiency of their design, however, remain to be understood and are core research aims of the Göttingen Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1286 "Quantitative Synaptology"<https://www.sfb1286.de/?lang=en>. We are inviting applications from theoretical biophysicists, molecular systems biologists, or computational scientists with an ambition to pioneer computational studies of synaptic functional design. We offer a stimulating environment of theoretical neuroscientists, neural data-scientists, and cutting-edge experimentalists associated with CRC 1286. In addition, the institute provides dedicated support for high-performance computing. We are dedicated to supporting the growth of original research personalities at the frontier of computational science and neural circuit theory. The successful applicant will hold an excellent PhD in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or equivalent, and have a strong interest in high-performance computing in neuroscience or cellular systems biology. We expect excellent analytical and coding skills, interest in working in a transdisciplinary team as well as excellence in scientific writing and reasoning. Experience in non-equilibrium statistical physics, stochastic dynamics, membrane biophysics, ion-channel and biochemical kinetics, buffered Ca-diffusion, and Ca-exocytosis coupling would be advantageous. The Göttingen Campus is a leading center of neuroscience in Europe hosting numerous internationally renowned research institutions, including the University, the University Medical Center, two life science Max Planck Institutes, the European Neuroscience Institute, the German Primate Center, and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Göttingen. The CIDBN is a newly founded transdisciplinary institute whose mission is to foster frontier research at the border of the exact and biological sciences. The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The mission of the University is to employ a greater number of severely disabled persons. Applications from severely disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Please send your e-mail application in one single PDF-document, including a letter of motivation, your curriculum vitae with a list of publications, copies of your certificates and contact information of two references to cidbn(a)uni-goettingen.de<mailto:cidbn@uni-goettingen.de> (subject: Postdoc CIDBN). The position remains open until filled. Georg-August-Universität Göttingen Göttingen Campus Institute for Dynamics of Biological Networks Heinrich-Düker-Weg 12, 37073 Göttingen. If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Fred Wolf via e-mail: fred.wolf(a)ds.mpg.de<mailto:fred.wolf@ds.mpg.de>. Please note: With submission of your application, you accept the processing of your applicant data in terms of data-protection law. Further information on the legal basis and data usage is provided in the Hinweisblatt zur Datenschutzgrundverordnung (DSGVO) https://www.uni-goettingen.de/hinweisdsgvo <https://www.uni-goettingen.de/hinweisdsgvo%20> Best regards, Christina von Behren ------ Goettingen Campus Institute for Dynamics of Biological Networks Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Goettingen University of Goettingen Heinrich-Dueker-Weg 12 37073 Goettingen Germany Tel.: +49-(0)551-39-26674

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Late-breaking poster abstract submission for the 32nd Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting ends on June 15
by Rubchinsky, Leonid L 11 Dec '24

11 Dec '24

Dear Colleagues, We would like to remind that the late-breaking poster abstracts submission at CNS*2023 ends on June 15. CNS*2023, 32nd Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting, will be in Leipzig, Germany, on July 15-19, 2023. The information about the meeting and abstract submission can be found here: Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/cns-2023-registration Abstract submission: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2023-abstract-submission CNS*2023 information: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2023 With kind regards, Leonid Rubchinsky OCNS Vice President *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202-3216 lrubchin(a)iupui.edu http://www.math.iupui.edu/~lrubchin ***********************

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2024 Bonsai Developer Conference
by Joaquin Rapela 29 Nov '24

29 Nov '24

Hello, We are excited to invite you to the 2024 Bonsai Developer Conference, taking place from December 2nd to 4th, 2024, at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre in London, UK. This event brings together neuroscience researchers, computational scientists, and software engineers with a shared interest in the Bonsai visual reactive programming language. The conference program and additional details can be found at https://conference.bonsai-rx.org/2024/ About Bonsai ------------ Bonsai https://bonsai-rx.org/ is an open-source reactive visual programming language widely use for neuroscience experimental control. Differently from standard programming languages where control flow is specified by composing sequences of instructions, and checking conditional loops for the occurrence of events, in reactive languages https://introtorx.com/ the control flow is specified by composing event streams. By placing asynchronous data streams front and centre, it becomes much easier to succinctly build complex programs manipulating hundreds of parallel data sources and controllers while retaining interoperability and modularity. Bonsai is a visual programming language where programs are laid out graphically. Each node represents a data stream, and edges represent input dependencies between streams. Parameters can be manipulated dynamically and every stream can be inspected at runtime. This graphical approach allows users with no programming experience to create complex asynchronous programs, and experienced Bonsai users to very quickly deploy and manage entire systems and applications. Bonsai is able to interface with a large number of experimental hardware for neuroscience experimental control, allowing researchers to easily build sophisticated experiments. We look forward to see you in London! Best regards, Goncalo Lopes g.lopes(a)neurogears.org Nicholas Guilbeault n.guilbeault(a)ucl.ac.uk Joaquin Rapela j.rapela(a)ucl.ac.uk

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PhD position on predictive representations / dynamic RSA, CIMeC, Uni Trento, Italy
by Moritz Wurm 17 Nov '24

17 Nov '24

We are seeking for a highly motivated PhD student to join the Action Recognition and Concepts Group <https://www.cimec.unitn.it/en/929/action-recognition-and-concepts-group> at CIMeC (Center for Mind/Brain Sciences), University of Trento, Italy. The research project will focus on an MEG-based dynamic extension to representational similarity analysis (dynamic RSA <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39355-y>) that we have recently developed in our lab to investigate predictive representations of dynamic events. We're looking for applicants who: · Have a strong drive to pursue a career in scientific research · Possess independent and critical thinking skills · Excel in collaborative teamwork · Have a background in cognitive neuroscience (preferably M/EEG or fMRI, MVPA/RSA) and strong programming skills (preferably Matlab) At CIMeC, you'll have access to cutting-edge research facilities, such as: · A brand new MEGIN TRIUX neo MEG system · A 3T MRI Siemens Prisma · TMS, EEG, and combined TMS-EEG setups · Human intracranial stereotactic EEG · Eye-tracking systems · Kinematic recording systems All equipment is dedicated 100% to research purposes, providing you with the ideal environment for testing your research questions. As a member of our lab and of the wider CIMeC community, you will be part of an international community of students and researchers in a vibrant scientific environment. The working language is English. Our lab enjoys numerous international collaborations, and we offer ample opportunities to engage with the broader scientific community through conferences, workshops, and international meetings, supported by research funding attracted by our lab. Living in Trentino offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. Situated among stunning landscapes between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, it provides a serene setting where you can appreciate nature alongside various cultural activities and sports. Trentino is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, offering an exceptional quality of life alongside your academic pursuits. Deadline to apply is June 24. Find more information on CIMeC’s doctoral program here <https://www.unitn.it/drcimec/>. If you are thrilled to contribute to our research in cognitive neuroscience, please send an informal inquiry, including a CV and a brief statement of research interests, to moritz.wurm(a)unitn.it <mailto:moritz.wurm@unitn.it>. We look forward to hearing from you! Best wishes, Moritz Wurm

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Announcement of BrainCriticality 2024 3-day conference Nov 6 - 8, 2024, NIH, USA
by Plenz, Dietmar (NIH/NIMH) [E] 02 Nov '24

02 Nov '24

Brain Criticality Hybrid Meeting November 6 - 8 2024 (in person/virtual) For registration and details see: https://braincriticality.org/<https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbraincrit…> This hybrid meeting will take place at the National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA with ~25 speakers over the course of 3 days. Contributions will cover recent developments in the fields of systems neuroscience and collective phenomena in complex systems with focus on the role of criticality and its implications for normal and abnormal brain dynamics. Dietmar Plenz, Ph.D. Senior Investigator Section on Critical Brain Dynamics National Institute of Mental Health USA "Complexity from simple rules"

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Invitation to EiNS Seminars: Guillermo Cecchi (IBM Research, USA) - AI Challenges for Large Longitudinal Clinical Trials in Mental Health
by Jose A. Fernandez 30 Oct '24

30 Oct '24

Dear Comp-Neuro members, You're cordially invited to join us for the upcoming session of the “Explorations in Neuroscience Seminars” (EiNS). We are excited to feature *Guillermo Cecchi* from the *T.J. Watson Institute at IBM Research, USA*, who will be presenting on “*AI Challenges for Large Longitudinal Clinical Trials in Mental Health.*” The lecture will take place on YouTube Live on *Friday, November 15, 2024, at 3 PM (GMT-3)*. We look forward to your participation! Please note that this talk will be conducted in Spanish. Feel free to share this invitation with anyone who might be interested but isn't on our list. *Link:* https://www.youtube.com/ExactasUNCPBA/live Best wishes, *Jose A. Fernandez-Leon Fellenz*Adjunct Professor UNCPBA - Researcher CONICET CIFICEN (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET) & INTIA (UNCPBA-CICPBA) Dept. of Computer Science and Systems - Exactas-UNCPBA *EMail:* jafernandez(a)intia.exa.unicen.edu.ar *Web:* https://jafphd.intia.exa.unicen.edu.ar/ *NeuroAI Lab:* https://neuro-ai-lab.intia.exa.unicen.edu.ar/ ---------------------- *Title: AI Challenges for Large Longitudinal Clinical Trials in Mental Health - * *Guillermo Cecchi (Institute T.J. Watson – IBM Research, USA)* *Abstract: *The recent experience of accelerated vaccine development under the pressure of the covid pandemic, the massive adoption of consumer electronics and the explosion of AI capabilities signal a dramatic shift in the implementation of clinical trials, which have been particularly ineffective and onerous in mental health. We will present results from ongoing and recently completed large longitudinal clinical trials for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Chronic Pain, Prodromal Psychosis and outcomes across all mental health conditions in which massive streams of clinical data are combined with at-home ultra-high frequency digital information including smart phone use, geolocation, and semi-structured and free-form language to provide a holistic and quasi-real time assessment of the participants, and will discuss the analytic and interpretation challenges that emerge in these demanding studies. *BIO:* https://research.ibm.com/people/guillermo-cecchi *Academic background:* Guillermo Cecchi received an education in Physics (MSc, University of La Plata, Argentina, 1991), Physics and Biology (PhD, The Rockefeller University, 1994-1999), and Imaging in Psychiatry (Postdoctoral Fellow, Cornell University 2000-2001). He has been interested in diverse aspects of theoretical biology, including Brownian transport, molecular computation, spike reliability in neurons, song production and representation in songbirds, statistics of natural images and visual perception, statistics of natural language, and brain imaging. In 2001 he joined IBM Research to work on computational approaches to brain function. In recent years, Dr. Cecchi has pioneered the use of a computational linguistics approach to quantify psychiatric conditions from short speech samples, applying it successfully to conditions as diverse as schizophrenia, mania, prodromal psychosis, chronic pain, neurodegeneration, drug and alcohol intake, and psychotherapy. *Areas of research: *Dr. Cecchi directs the Computational Psychiatry and the Neuroimaging groups in IBM Research, and is Associate Director of Analytics for NIH's Advancing Medicines Partnerships - Schizophrenia. From May 2024, Dr. Cecchi is the co-Director of the PREDiCT Center for outcomes forecast across all mental health outpatients in New York City Mt Sinai hospitals (NIH U01 center grant). *About EiNS Seminars*: This online seminar series aims to go beyond the human mind to unlock intelligence across nature and machines. The talks invite a cross-disciplinary exploration of cognitive and decision-making systems, and computational linguistics from biological organisms to Artificial Intelligence. By examining the intricacies of minds embedded in physical bodies or their absence, we aim to uncover novel approaches for developing neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of embodied and cognitive intelligence, exploring how memory, learning, decision-making, environmental awareness, and consciousness manifest across various life forms and AI challenges. Each talk will feature captivating case studies and open dialogue, fostering a collaborative environment for generating fresh perspectives. The talks are recorded only with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody at https://neuro-ai-lab.intia.exa.unicen.edu.ar/eins-seminars.

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Complex Networks 2024 – Program & Registration now Available!
by Hocine Cherifi 30 Oct '24

30 Oct '24

We’re thrilled to invite you to Complex Networks 2024! The program is now live, featuring an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers, tutorials, presentations, and sessions that showcase the latest developments in complex networks. *Explore the Program:* Our diverse schedule includes thought-provoking keynotes, hands-on tutorials, oral presentations, and interactive poster and lightning sessions. You can view the full program here: [Link to All Files <https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gEuIWHM5NXkd75Q3fun5zuTyp-lbFu_o?us…> ]. *Key Highlights:* - *Tutorials <https://complexnetworks.org/tutorials/> on December 09:* Join specialized tutorials designed to deepen your knowledge and provide practical skills. - *Keynote Speakers <https://complexnetworks.org/keynotes/>:* Gain insights from renowned experts who will share cutting-edge perspectives on complex network research and applications. - *Program at a Glance <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1paPlcRaZmntRoToxc5Rbq8YampNlNLP2/view>* - *Poster Sessions <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fWZkkYijpASQwZHJfCc5RtnikUwmFCCF/view>* - *Oral Sessions <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MwPeu5RdoCPPbdp_8zmslmOfwK735ewZ/view>* - *Lightning Sessions <https://drive.google.com/file/d/12iZxpGrjcJwMCN4K6gDqkGagWFIEyjkG/view>* *Register Now:* Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with leading researchers and practitioners in the field. If you haven’t registered yet, secure your spot here: [https://complexnetworks.org/registration/] <https://complexnetworks.org/registration/> *Conference Dates and Location:* Conference will be held from December 10, 2024 to December 12, 2024 in vibrant Istanbul. In addition to the sessions, enjoy networking opportunities, including a welcome reception and a gala dinner, to foster collaboration and connection. We look forward to seeing you in Istanbul for an enriching and inspiring event! Best regards, Complex Networks 2024 Organizing Committee Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2024 <https://www.complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Founding & Adisory Editor Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/>

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Two PhD positions
by Phil Garner 30 Oct '24

30 Oct '24

Dear Colleagues, The Idiap Research Institute in partnership with the Department of Mathematics at Mahidol University seek two PhD students to work on Bayesian Optimisation and training techniques for spiking neural networks. Funded by the Swiss NSF, one student will be based in Martigny in the Swiss alps, the other in Bangkok in Thailand. Exchanges between the two are planned. In addition to promising better understanding of biological processes, spiking nets have persuasive low-power implications. However, they present difficulties associated with their many hyperparameters, binary nature and non-differentiability of the emitted spikes. At Idiap, the project will build on our recent work that has shown that spiking networks are plausible solutions for speech processing tasks. The Bayesian approach will be twofold: In a first thread we will attempt to show that prior information can compensate for discontinuities in the error landscape arising from the binary nature. In a second thread, we will use Bayesian Optimisation techniques to handle the increased number of hyperparameters associated with spiking neurons. At Mahidol, the team will be responsible for designing frameworks for LPNet and neural networks to address the vehicle routing problem (VRP). The project will explore the effectiveness of these approaches in solving VRP and identify their limitations. The ultimate aim is to enhance VRP solutions through our spiking neural network (SNN) framework. The ideal student should have a master's (or equivalent) degree in engineering, computer science, physics, or mathematics. They should have a good background in mathematics, statistics, and programming (C/C++, Python, scripting languages). Candidates should have a deep understanding of ANNs and, ideally, familiarity with SNNs. For more information and to apply, for Idiap: https://careers.werecruit.io/en/idiap/offers/phd---bayesian-methods-for-spi… for Mahidol: https://mathematics.sc.mahidol.ac.th/scholarship-for-phd-in-mathematics-swi… The SNSF SPIRIT program is especially concerned with gender and identity inclusivity; we will emphasize this through the hiring process. In this sense, we particularly encourage applications from female candidates. Sincerely, -- Phil Garner http://www.idiap.ch/~pgarner

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PhD opportunity: computational neuroscience of decision-making and addiction
by mailinglists.4svr4＠simplelogin.com 29 Oct '24

29 Oct '24

I am seeking candidates for a potential PhD project at the University of Surrey, investigating how dopamine shapes memory formation and decision-making in healthy and addictive behaviours. Essential Requirements * Strong academic background * Programming skills (or strong willingness to learn) * Advanced statistical knowledge (or strong willingness to learn) * Interest in computational neuroscience and addiction research Funding Information Through the South East Doctoral Training Arc (SEDarc), funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), successful candidates can receive: * Full funding for UK or International students * Living stipend at UKRI rates * Access to advanced research training Previous students from our School have successfully secured these competitive studentships. However, funding is not guaranteed and depends on both the candidate's academic excellence and the strength of the research proposal. If you are interested, please send your CV to c.feherdasilva(a)surrey.ac.uk . I will be happy to discuss the project idea and guide you through the application process. Best regards, Carolina Feher da Silva Lecturer in Psychology University of Surrey Note: This opportunity is open to both UK and International students. The University of Surrey is located in Guildford, 40 minutes from central London.

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Queers in STEM social London
by Niedernhuber,Maria 29 Oct '24

29 Oct '24

Dear all Representatives of LGBT university staff networks in London, as well as the organisation Pride in STEM, are organising a social for queer academics, focusing on STEM. Anyone is welcome. Since our social originated at a cognitive and computational neuroscience conference, queer neuroscientists are very well represented, and we hope that this will be a great opportunity to network for queer people in cognitive and computational neuroscience. This is the sign-up link: <https://www.outsavvy.com/event/23202/queers-in-stem-pub-social> https://www.outsavvy.com/event/23202/queers-in-stem-pub-social. If anyone here is interested in co-organising, please shoot me an email, and feel free to forward the sign-up link to anyone you know who might be interested. We are especially still looking for a contact person at the University of Greenwich and at Royal Holloway University of London, which are not represented in the organising team at the moment, to advertise the social in their local LGBT staff network. Feel free to email me to chat about the initiative, and how to get involved! Have a lovely week! Maria (they/them) --- Maria Niedernhuber Postdoctoral researcher in Cognitive Neuroscience Consciousness and Cognition Lab, University of Cambridge Sleep and Cognition Lab, QMUL

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