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Save the date! Online workshop "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting"

by Anton Arkhipov

Dear all, Please save the date! Announcing the online workshop "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting" Dates: September 29 – October 1, 2021 See details at this web page<https://www.eitn.org/index.php/calendar-event/eventdetail/750/-/workshop-on…>. Organized by Anton Arkhipov (Allen Institute, Seattle) and Gaute Einevoll (NMBU/University of Oslo) and supported by the European Institute for Theoretical Neuroscience (EITN). We have a great lineup of speakers! Keynotes by James DiCarlo (MIT), Jacob Macke (U. Tübingen), and Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai). Confirmed speakers: Sharon Crook (Arizona State U.) Julijana Gjorgjeva (Max Planck Institute and TUM) Peder Jedlicka (U. Giessen) Szabolcs Kali (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary) Arvind Kumar (KTH Stockholm) Stefan Mihalas (Allen Institute) Aaron Milstein (Rutgers U.) Atle Rimehaug (U. Oslo) Frances Skinner (Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, and U. Toronto) Carsen Stringer (Janelia) Kristin Tøndel (NMBU) And a Special Lecture by Marcus Covert (Stanford)! Registration opens on September 1, 2021. We hope to see you there. Anton Arkhipov Associate Investigator T: 206.548.8414 E: antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org> [Text Description automatically generated] alleninstitute.org<https://alleninstitute.org> brain-map.org

July 23, 2021

[Journals] Final CFP: Special Issue on "Theory of Mind in Humans and in Machines"

by Bogdan Ionut Cirstea

Dear colleagues, Apologies for cross-posting. Together with Prof. Fabio Cuzzolin (Oxford Brookes University, UK), Prof. Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian (University of Cambridge, UK) and Dr. Christelle Langley (University of Cambridge, UK), we are organizing a special issue (Frontiers Research Topic) on the emerging topic of "Theory of Mind in Humans and in Machines" under the "Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence" and "Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience" journals. We would like to invite you to contribute articles to the Research Topic. For more information on this special issue, please visit the website at https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/16802/theory-of-mind-in-humans-… Papers may be submitted until the 30th of July 2021 (manuscript submission extended deadline). Submitted papers should not be under consideration for publication elsewhere. We also encourage authors to send a short abstract (via the platform) to ensure compliance with the topic and scope of the Frontiers journals as early as possible. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, theoretical proposals, computational experiments, and case studies of: • Computational Theory of Mind • Learning from Demonstrations • Cognitive Models for Learning from Demonstration and Planning • Neuroscience-inspired models of Theory of Mind • Human-Robot Interaction • Cooperative Inverse Reinforcement Learning (assistance games) • Learning from Preferences If you intend to send an article to the special issue, please do let us know by hitting the "Participate" button in the web interface. If you have any questions or need any kind of assistance from us, please do not hesitate to let us know. On behalf of the topic editors, -- Bogdan-Ionut Cirstea Topic Editors: Prof. Fabio Cuzzolin, Oxford Brookes University, UK < fabio.cuzzolin(a)brookes.ac.uk> Prof. Barbara Jacquelyn Sahakian, University of Cambridge, UK < bjs1001(a)cam.ac.uk> Dr. Bogdan-Ionut Cirstea, Oxford Brookes University, UK < bcirstea(a)brookes.ac.uk> Dr. Christelle Langley, University of Cambridge, UK <cl798(a)medschl.cam.ac.uk >

July 22, 2021

Open postdoc position in plasticity in blindness and handlessness (Georgetown University, Washington DC)

by Ella Striem-Amit

*Postdoctoral researcher position in visual and/or motor brain plasticity* The SAMP Lab (Sensory and motor plasticity, Ella Striem-Amit’s lab) at Georgetown University (Washington DC, USA) 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 PhD in a relevant field, excellent understanding of and experience with fMRI data analysis are required. Strong programming skills (Matlab/R/python, etc.) are also a requirement. Experience with behavioral methods used in visual, multisensory or motor control is desirable but is not a requirement. The position is not limited to US citizens. The start date is flexible, but preferably fall/winter 2021-2. This position is available for two years, and can be extended further based on performance. To apply, please send your CV and 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 will 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/

July 22, 2021

[meetings] Bionics today, July 27, 2.00 - 4.30 pm CEST

by Calogero Maria Oddo

Don't miss this unique event! BIONICS TODAY ROBOTS AND BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS: A CHECKPOINT OF BIONICS EVOLUTION Online event, on Tuesday, July 27, from 2.00 to 4.30 pm CEST. Chairs: Paolo Dario and Giulio Sandini Streaming from The BioRobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy Looking back at a historical workshop held in Italy in 1989, it seems timely to re-propose the same question and analyze the evolution of bionics. Join us in a conversation with top scientists who pioneered the field. Details and program here: https://www.santannapisa.it/it/event/bionics-today -- Calogero M. Oddo, PhD Associate Professor of Bioengineering https://www.santannapisa.it/en/calogero-maria-oddo https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=y1rffgkAAAAJ&hl=en Vice-Coordinator of the PhD programme in BioRobotics Head of the Neuro-Robotic Touch Laboratory The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa, Italy https://www.santannapisa.it/en/education/phd-biorobotics http://www.santannapisa.it/en/neuro-robotic-touch-laboratory email: calogero.oddo(a)santannapisa.it<mailto:calogero.oddo@santannapisa.it>

July 22, 2021

Job opening in Computational Neuroscience Institute in Juelich, Germany: Science communication officer with a focus on graphics

by Martina Reske

The goal of the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine - Computational and Systems Neuroscience (INM-6), at Research Center Juelich, Germany, is to relate the structure and dynamics of the brain using mathematical models. Bottom-up modeling is accompanied by top-down approaches and theory in order to include functional constraints and to gain insights into dynamic mechanisms. In addition, activity data (dynamics) and structural data (anatomy) are used and integrated into the biophysical models. For this purpose, analysis methods adapted to the questions are developed and, if necessary, data are collected with cooperation partners. In order to be able to perform simulations of the models, a further focus is on the development of simulation technology. Furthermore, the institute hosts the Bernstein Coordination Office (BCOS), which supports the scientists of the Bernstein Network for Computational Neuroscience. We are looking to recruit a Science communication officer with a focus on graphics! Your Job: * Planning and designing of scientific graphics, illustrations, texts and audio-visual or interactive media for the visualization of scientific contents of the institute`s department as well as their integration into the international scientific community * Graphical editing from templates submitted by scientists, e.g. image, text and graphical data, transferring and converting as necessary for different user communities * Graphic realisation and preparation of scientific presentations * Coordination and assistance in the creation of posters and institute flyers * Recording, digital processing and data protection compliant storage of scientific photographs and films * Reviewing, analysing and evaluating very complex, technically difficult and thematically diverse scientific information in order to provide information appropriate to the target group * Consideration of the current data protection regulations when recording, processing, using and securing the scientific images, videos, photographs and other media data of the institute * Development of concepts for the graphical external presentation as well as their implementation for various scientific media * Placement of graphic contents of the Institute on the Institute website and in social media * Designing presentations and graphics in accordance with the corporate design guidelines of Forschungszentrum Jülich and/or the Helmholtz Association * Preparation of research results for the Institute’s website * Coordination of the work with the Graphical Services of the Research Centre * Support of internal and external scientific events * Training of scientists in the use of media Your Profile: * University degree (Master) in physics, mathematics, biology or a related subject * High proficiency in the handling of open source graphics and video software, e.g. GIMP, lnkscape, for the production of scientific graphics and illustrations * Experience in the placement of scientific content, especially graphics and images, on social media channels such as Twitter * Extensive experience in the production of photo and video material. * Solid experience with Linux, LaTeX and Python, Git and Github * Knowledge of editorial systems of websites * Very good knowledge of written and spoken English * Very structured working style to prioritize the work. Experience in project and time management are desirable * Very independent and proactive working style * Assertiveness with empathy * Very high communication skills with researchers and administrative staff Our Offer: We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with: * A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work * Comprehensive training courses and individual opportunities for personal and professional further development * Extensive company health management * Ideal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly corporate policy * Flexible working hours, part-time employment with 19,5 working hours per week, and 30 days of annual leave * Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service * We offer you an exciting and varied role in an international and interdisciplinary working environment. The position is initially for a fixed term of 2 years, with possible long-term prospects. Salary and social benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD). * Forschungszentrum Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. We look forward to receiving your application via our online recruiting system<https://www.fz-juelich.de/portal/EN/Careers/application/_node.html?cms_hre_…> Martina Reske -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

July 22, 2021

PDF at the intersection of brain dynamics, machine learning, and psychedelics

by AaronJ Gruber

*Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Calgary* We are recruiting a talented postdoctoral researcher to participate in a cutting-edge International Network for Brain-Inspired Computation that includes nodes in Montreal, Paris, and the Pacific Northwest of the US and Canada (e.g. University of Washington, Allen Brain Institute). The project is at the intersection of mathematics, physics, and neuroscience in the general area of complex network dynamics and emergent activity patterns and representations that drive biological computation. The specific objective is to understand cognitive brain function and the effects of psychedelics by analyzing large-scale ensemble neural data collected in our labs, in conjunction with computational and/or analytical work to identify key mathematical principles and develop theories of core function. The ideal candidate will have a quantitative background (e.g. PhD in mathematics, physics, computer science) along with experience in applying this background to neuroscience. This postdoctoral position is partially funded by the Pacific Institute for Mathematical Sciences and is aimed to strengthen the link between the Campus Alberta computational neuroscience community at the University of Calgary (Complexity Science Group, Hotchkiss Brain Institute) and the University of Lethbridge (Canadian Center for Behavioural Neuroscience) with the other network members including the Computational Neuroscience Center at the University of Washington. The position is open immediately with primary locations in either Calgary or Lethbridge. The specific start date has to be within five years of being awarded a PhD degree. The position is funded for at least two years and includes an annual stipend in the range of CAD$42,000 – $50,000 plus benefits. Opportunities for brief residences in partner nodes (Montreal, Seattle, or Paris) are also available. Interested candidates should submit their application package including a cover letter, their CV with a list of publications, brief statement of research interests and their possible start dates in PDF format to Dr. Jörn Davidsen (jdavidse(a)ucalgary.ca) and Dr. Aaron Gruber (aaron.gruber(a)uleth.ca) Applicants should arrange for at least two letters of reference to be sent as well. Review of applications will begin* July 31st, 2021*, and continue until the position is filled. For additional information and informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Davidsen or Dr. Gruber. We strive for a diverse and inclusive environment, and encourage applications from members of any identity

July 21, 2021

Multiple postdoctoral openings in multi-scale brain network dynamics, reinforcement learning and decision-making at Washington University in St. Louis

by Ching, ShiNung

Multiple postdoctoral openings are available for a new and large project to study the circuit underpinnings of reinforcement learning and decision-making. A key focus is on understanding multiple time-scales of information processing in neural circuits and involvement of neuron-astrocyte interactions. Experiment- and theory-forward positions are available. Applicants should have prior experience in neuroscience (computational or otherwise), modeling of large-scale systems, optimization, machine learning or related areas. Positions will be appointed in Neuroscience and/or Engineering. Washington University in St. Louis is an independent, Research 1 university in St. Louis, MO, USA, with nearly 60 of the university's graduate and undergraduate programs ranked in the top 25 by US News & World Report. Interested applicants are invited to send a CV and brief description of interests to shinung(a)wustl.edu<mailto:shinung@wustl.edu>

July 21, 2021

Postdoc opportunity in EEG computational analysis (Houston, TX)

by Maheshwari, Atul

The Maheshwari Lab is looking for an enthusiastic post-doctoral associate to join the lab ASAP. We study mouse models of epilepsy, trying to understand the underlying development of epilepsy as well as the overlap between epilepsy and comorbidities such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Techniques used in the lab include implantation of EEG electrodes, immunohistochemistry, confocal imaging, advanced computational analysis of EEG, video-EEG monitoring, and behavioral testing for sustained attention. We also apply advanced techniques to analyze scalp and intracranial EEG from patients who are being evaluated in an Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) setting. The main role for this position is performing advanced computational EEG analysis. Experience with machine learning is preferred. Prior work with rodents is not necessary. For more information or to apply: https://www.nature.com/naturecareers/job/postdoctoral-associate-baylor-coll…. You'll love Houston - a diverse and friendly environment for science! You can contact me by email at atul.maheshwari(a)bcm.edu<mailto:atul.maheshwari@bcm.edu> or DM me on Twitter @NeuroMaheshwari. Atul Maheshwari, MD Associate Professor Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience Baylor College of Medicine

July 21, 2021

Apply Now: Shanahan Foundation Fellowship at the Interface of Data and Neuroscience

by Eric Shea-Brown

Shanahan Foundation Fellowship at the Interface of Data and Neuroscience Overview The Shanahan Foundation Fellowship at the Interface of Data and Neuroscience is a new, three-year fellowship program that aims to: · Integrate data scientists in neuroscience research · Challenge traditional approaches to neuroscience · Provide multidisciplinary, multi-organizational co-mentorship · Provide a network and community · Support career development in data science The fellowship will be co-hosted by the Allen Institute and the University of Washington (through its eScience Institute and the Computational Neuroscience Center) and is directed by Dr. Christof Koch at the Allen Institute. Details During the three-year fellowship, fellows will identify a mentor at the Allen Institute, where the fellows will be based. Fellows will select a co-mentor at the University of Washington who will provide additional guidance on a project designed by the fellow, focused on quantitative analysis of neuroscience data available through the Allen Institute’s vast data banks <http://www.brain-map.org/> – ranging from molecular, genomic, transcriptional, physiological, morphological, anatomical and functional whole-brain level in the brains of mice, non-human primates and humans – or through ongoing laboratory work. Fellows will participate in the postdoctoral career development program at the University’s e-Science Institute and the UW Institute of Neuroengineering (UWIN). The eSciences Institute offers regular workshops on key topics including cloud computing, python and reproducibility. New fellows will attend the annual Summer Workshop on the Dynamic Brain <https://alleninstitute.org/what-we-do/brain-science/events-training/summer-…> where they will learn how to apply data science skills to neuroscience data and questions. Throughout the three years, fellows will be supported in developing a network in the neuroscience field and sharing their progress with peers at conferences. Up to three fellows will be selected to begin in Fall 2021. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must be data scientists in a broad sense, with a Ph.D. in a quantitative field such as computer science, electrical engineering, physics, mathematics or biology with a background in statistical, computational and machine learning methods. Ph.D.’s should have been awarded in the last 3 years. One goal of the fellowship is to build a network of collaborators, as such, priority will be given to applicants who are not currently postdoctoral fellows or scientists at the University of Washington or the Allen Institute respectively. We believe high-quality science can only be produced when it includes different perspectives. We are building an environment of diversity and inclusion and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this fellowship. Application Instructions For full consideration, please submit your application by August 1, 2021. Applications may continue to be considered after this deadline on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Learn more and apply on the Shanahan Fellowship Website <https://alleninstitute.org/what-we-do/brain-science/careers/shanahan-founda…>. Applications must include: · A curriculum vitae from the applicant · Two letters of support from advisors and other mentors · A one page personal statement from the applicant describing their history, activities and interests as an individual (especially those outside of science) which may give the committee a greater sense of you as a person and your ability to simultaneously interact with and challenge traditional scientific fields. · A two to three page research statement from the applicant describing their prior research, interests in applying data science to the field of neuroscience, potential research interests (including tools they are familiar with) and how this fellowship aligns with their career goals. · The choice of the final advisor/co-advisor will be accomplished during the first year of this fellowship. Questions? Email: shanahan.fellow(a)alleninstitute.org <mailto:shanahan.fellow@alleninstitute.org>

July 21, 2021

SCGB Global Postdoc/Student Meeting: Thursday, August 5th by Kayvon Daie

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 this month's Global meeting! Please see event details and Zoom link below. SCGB Global Postdoc/Student Meeting: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scgb-global-postdocstudent-meeting-tickets-163… Thursday, August 5th, 1pm Eastern Time https://simonsfoundation.zoom.us/j/93637538440?pwd=MnNCeVF1eThKZmVUa2p5bUlR… Passcode: 443599 *Kayvon Daie*Research Associate, Svoboda Laboratory HHMI's Janelia Research Campus *Dissection of the neural circuitry underlying short-term memory* Short-term memory is associated with persistent neural activity without sustained input, arising from the interactions between neurons with brief time constants. A variety of neural circuit models could account for existing measurements of neural activity. To explore which, if any, of these models are most consistent with neural circuitry, we measured coupling between functionally characterized motor cortex neurons in mice performing a memory-guided response task. Targeted two-photon photostimulation of small (<10) groups of neurons produced sparse calcium responses in coupled neurons over approximately 100 μm. Neurons with similar task-related selectivity were preferentially coupled. Photostimulation of different groups of neurons modulated activity in different subpopulations of coupled neurons. Responses of stimulated and coupled neurons persisted for seconds, far outlasting the duration of the photostimuli. Photostimuli produced behavioral biases that were predictable based on the tuning of the photostimulated population, even though photostimulation preceded the behavioral response by seconds. Our results suggest that memory-related neural circuits contain intercalated, recurrently connected modules and that these modules are coupled via long-range “hidden feedforward” connections. *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-163… Please contact Laura Long at llong(a)simonsfoundation.org with any questions. Sign up for our mailing list here: https://forms.gle/DZa1b2WCtvw5XFhAA

July 20, 2021