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[Extended Deadline-CFP] - HAI 2017 Workshop: Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition

by Amir Aly

CALL FOR PAPERS **Apologies for cross posting ** The full day workshop: "*Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition*" In conjunction with the *5th International Conference on Human-Agent Interaction* *- Bielefeld - Germany - October * *17th, 2017* *Webpage: **http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/hai2017_workshop/* <http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/hai2017_workshop/> *I. Aim and Scope *Creating intelligent and interactive robots has been subject to extensive research studies. They are rapidly moving to the center of human environment so that they collaborate with human users in different applications, which requires high-level cognitive functions so as to allow them to understand and learn from human behavior. To this end, an important challenge that attracts much attention in cognitive science and artificial intelligence, is the “Symbol Emergence” problem, which investigates the bottom-up development of symbols through social interaction. This research line employs representation learning based models for understanding language and action in a developmentally plausible manner so as to make robots able to behave appropriately on their own. This could open the door to robots to understand syntactic formalisms and semantic references of human speech, and to associate language knowledge to perceptual knowledge so as to successfully collaborate with human users in space. Another interesting approach to study representation learning is “Cognitive Mirroring”, which refers to artificial systems that could make cognitive processes observable, such as the models that could learn concepts of objects, actions, and/or emotions from humans through interaction. A key idea of this approach is that robots learn individual characteristics of human cognition rather than acquiring a general representation of cognition. In this way, the characteristics of human cognition become observable and can be measured as modifications in model parameters, which is difficult to verify through neuroscience studies only. In this workshop, we invite researchers in artificial intelligence, cognitive science, cognitive robotics, and neuroscience to share their knowledge and research findings on representation learning, and to engage in cutting-edge discussions with other experienced researchers so as to help promoting this research line in the Human-Agent Interaction (HAI) community. *II. Keynote Speakers * 1. *Beata Joanna Grzyb *– Radboud University – The Netherlands 2. *Thomas Hermann*– Bielefeld University – Germany 3. *Tetsuya Ogata *– Waseda University – Japan 4. *Erhan Oztop *– Ozyegin Universiy – Turkey 5. * Stefan Wermter *– University of Hamburg – Germany *III. Submission * 1. For paper submission, use the following EasyChair web link: *Paper Submission <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=rlhrc2017>*. 2. Use the ACM SIGCHI format: *ACM SIGCHI Templates <http://www.sigchi.org/publications/chipubform>*. 3. Submitted papers should be limited to 2-4 pages maximum. The primary list of topics covers the following points (but not limited to): - Computational model for high-level cognitive capabilities - Predictive learning from sensorimotor information - Multimodal interaction and concept formulation - Human-robot communication and collaboration based on machine learning - Learning supported by external trainers by demonstration and imitation - Bayesian modeling - Learning with hierarchical and deep architectures - Interactive reinforcement learning * IV. Important Dates * 1. Paper submission: *15-September-2017* 2. Notification of acceptance: *25-September-2017* 3. Camera-ready version: *5-**October-2017* 4. Workshop: *17-October-2017* *V. Organizers * 1. *Takato Horii *– Osaka University – Japan 2. *Amir Aly *– Ritsumeikan University – Japan 3. *Yukie Nagai *– National Institute of Information and Communications Technology – Japan 4. * Takayuki Nagai *– The University of Electro-Communications – Japan -- *Amir Aly, Ph.D.* Senior Researcher Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

Aug. 28, 2017

Postdoc position in electrophysiology/neural coding at Columbia University

by Qi Wang

A postdoc position is available in the Laboratory for Neural Engineering and Control in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University (http://neclab.bme.columbia.edu/) The project investigates the role of the locus coeruleus – norepinephrine (LC-NE) system in modulating neural coding, perception, and learning. The successful applicant should have a background in in-vivo single-unit recording and quantitative analytical methods. Experiences in behavioral training of rodents is a plus. We are looking for highly motivated researchers with a strong technical background, ideally with a PhD or equivalent in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Psychology, or a related discipline. Applicants should demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work effectively independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Start date is flexible. Salary will be commensurate to the candidate qualifications. Applicants should submit a CV, a brief description of research interests, and a list of three references. All application materials as well as any inquiries should be sent to qi.wang(a)columbia.edu.

Aug. 28, 2017

Bernstein 2017 Workshop: "Multiscale modeling and simulation"

by Salvador Dura

Dear All, We would like to bring your attention to the* "Multiscale modeling and simulation" workshop* at the *Bernstein Conference 2017, Sept 12-13, Göttingen, Germany.* *Website: *http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-conference/2017/ satellite-workshops/multiscale-modeling-and-simulation-dura-bernal-lytton *Short abstract:* Understanding brain function requires characterizing the *interactions occurring across many temporal and spatial scales*. Mechanistic multiscale modeling aims to organize and explore these interactions across these scales. Multiscale models can provide insights into how changes at the molecular and cellular levels affect dynamics at local networks and brain areas. At the highest levels, they allow us to connect neural activity to theories of behavior, memory and cognition. The recent introduction of large neuroscience projects in US and EU Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) and Human Brain Project (HBP) respectively provide an opportunity to rapidly gather new and more accurate data to incorporate into the multiscale models. This workshop will present some of the* latest multiscale modeling tools and approaches in neuroscience, as well as representative examples of datadriven multiscale neural simulations*. The workshop aims to encourage both computational and experimental neuroscientists to make use of multiscale modeling in their research. *Organizers: *Salvador Dura-Bernal and Bill Lytton (SUNY Downstate) *Speakers:* *Tue, Sept 12:* - Bill Lytton (SUNY Downstate) - Jean Pierre Changeux (Pasteur Institute) - Volker Steuber (University of Hertfordshire) - Robert McDougal (Yale University) - Salvador Dura-Bernal (SUNY Downstate) - Cliff C Kerr (University of Sydney) *Wed, Sept 13:* - Szabolcs Kali (Hungarian Academy of Science/HBP) - Marianne Bezaire (Boston University) - Daniel Durstewitz (ZI Mannheim) - Kael Dali (Allen Institute for Brain Science) We look forward to seeing you there! Best Salva -- Salvador Durá-Bernal, Ph.D. Research Assistant Professor State University of New York Downstate Medical Center

Aug. 27, 2017

PhD, Master and Postdoc positions in theoretical neuroscience at the MPI for Brain Research

by Tatjana Tchumatchenko

PhD, Master and Postdoc positions in theoretical neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research We are looking for undergraduate students interested in writing a Master or PhD thesis and also have open positions for Postdocs to join our group "Theory of neural dynamics" at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research lead by Dr. Tatjana Tchumatchenko. Our group studies how networks of neurons encode and decode sensory stimuli and how these functions are related to computations that underlie cognitive functions and behavior. We develop models to address linear and non-linear properties of neuronal networks and have ongoing collaborations with experimental labs where we analyze in vitro as well as in vivo data and develop appropriate models to explain the observed phenomena. Successful applicants should have a strong background in a quantitative field such as physics, mathematics or computer science and should be interested in an interdisciplinary exchange with other disciplines such as biology or medicine. Life science majors interested in quantitative modeling work are also encouraged to apply, particularly if they would like to combine experiments and theory in their Master or Ph.D. thesis work. We are looking for candidates with strong English skills and prior programming experience. In order to make teamwork in our group enjoyable and fun, the ideal candidate should have a strong work ethic and have demonstrated consistent self-motivation skills. Female students are particularly encouraged to apply. Prospective students should apply by sending an email to theoryneuraldynamics(a)gmail.com which includes * a letter of motivation, * CV, * and a copy of the current academic transcripts To make your motivation letter easier to write for you and more informative for us, please check the list of questions to be answered in your motivation letter at http://www.tchumatchenko.de/Opportunities.html Looking forward to your applications! Tatjana Tchumatchenko

Aug. 27, 2017

Postdoctoral opportunity

by Timothy O'Leary

Post-doctoral position in theoretical neuroscience, University of Cambridge Description We are seeking a highly creative and motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant/Associate in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience to join the research group of Dr Timothy O’Leary in the Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge (http://www.olearylab.org/) The successful applicant will undertake exciting collaborative research projects in systems neuroscience, with the opportunity to work closely with experimental laboratories in Harvard Medical School, HHMI Janelia and the Weizmann Institute of Science. The post will therefore involve significant travel. A range of projects is available, covering themes of neural representations of behaviour, neuromodulation and regulatory control in the nervous system. The successful applicant will have, or be near to obtaining, a PhD in theoretical neuroscience, applied mathematics, control engineering, physics, or theoretical biology, and will have extensive research experience demonstrated by a strong publication record. A solid grounding in neuroscience is important. The position is initially for three years with possibility of extension, with a 6 month probation period. The appointment commences December 1, 2017but start date is flexible within reason. We offer a competitive salary in line with experience and we especially encourage applications from minorities and underrepresented groups. Full application details are available here: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/14796/ Closing date: 2017-10-02 Employment start date: 2017-12-01 Contract length: 3 years Institution: University of Cambridge *Timothy O'Leary* Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom Phone +441223746527 Email tso24(a)cam.ac.uk

Aug. 25, 2017

advertised postdoc position

by Matthew Chalk

Postdoc position in theoretical neuroscience, at the Vision Institute in Paris, France: Description: A postdoctoral position is available for a project with Matthew Chalk, at the Vision Institute (www.institut-vision.org/en/) within the University of Pierre and Marie Curie, in Paris, France. The project will involve investigating principles of neural coding in the retina. Specifically, the project will investigate how different coding objectives, such as optimising efficiency or encoding predictive information, can explain the diverse ways that neurons in the retina respond to visual stimulation. The postdoc will include both a theoretical and an experimental component. The theoretical part of the project will extend previous work by Chalk et al. to develop a general theory of optimal neural coding (Chalk et al. NIPS 2016, Chalk et al. bioArxiv 2016). The experimental part will involve running experiments to test this theory in the retina. The experimental part will be in close collaboration with members from the lab of Olivier Marre, who have developed techniques for recording from hundreds of retinal ganglion cells simultaneously (e.g. Marre et al. PLoS Comp. 2015). The Vision Institute is a stimulating environment for brain research. It brings together in a single building researchers, clinicians and industrial partners in order to discover, test and develop treatments and technological innovations for the benefit of visually impaired patients. The ideal candidate should have a PhD with a strong, quantitative background (ideally in fields such as machine learning and/or theoretical neuroscience). The position is funded for three years. Applications should include a CV, a statement of research interests (max 1 page), and two letters of recommendation. The earliest starting date will be 14/01/18. Electronic submissions in pdf-format are preferred and should be sent to Matthew Chalk (matthewjchalk(a)gmail.com <mailto:matthewjchalk@gmail.com>). Feel free to ask any informal questions about the position if you are interested.

Aug. 25, 2017

Fully funded PhD position on machine learning for neuroimaging data analysis

by Diego Sona

We are seeking candidates for a PhD position entitled “Computational Methods for Brain Connectivity Analysis”. The research will aim at developing novel approaches based on machine learning for the analysis of structural and functional brain connectivity from neuroimaging data (e.g., fMRI, rsMRI, DTI, MEG, EEG, etc.). The aim is to better understand the brain and characterize the neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment. The applicant should have a background in machine learning and pattern recognition methodologies with a keen interest in neuroscience. The PhD grant is jointly supported by Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT). The research activity will take place at the Neuroinformatics Laboratory (NILab, https://nilab.fbk.eu/ <https://nilab.fbk.eu/>) and the Pattern Analysis and Computer Vision Laboratory (PAVIS, http://pavis.iit.it/ <http://pavis.iit.it/>). NILab is an interdisciplinary laboratory raised as joint initiative between the Centre for Information Technology of FBK and the Centre for Mind/Brain Sciences of University of Trento (CIMeC, http://www.cimec.unitn.it <http://www.cimec.unitn.it/>). Interested candidates must apply for the PhD grant following the instructions in the call published by Università degli studi di Trento (see the application webpage http://ict.unitn.it/application/ict_doctoral_school <http://ict.unitn.it/application/ict_doctoral_school>) referring to position A5. Deadline for the formal application is August 31, 2017, hrs. 04.00 PM (Italian time, GMT +2) Interested candidates are also invited to contact Paolo Avesani (avesani(a)fbk.eu <mailto:avesani@fbk.eu>) and Diego Sona (diego.sona(a)iit.it <mailto:diego.sona@iit.it>) by emailing their CV and a short statement of interest in this position. For further information on the position and the application process refers to the following links http://ict.unitn.it <http://ict.unitn.it/> http://ict.unitn.it/application/project_specific_grants <http://ict.unitn.it/application/project_specific_grants> Diego Sona --------------------------------------------------------- Pattern Analysis & Computer Vision (PAVIS) Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy Phone: +39 010 71781 819 E-mail: diego.sona(a)iit.it pavis.iit.it/people/diego-sona ---------------------------------------------------------

Aug. 23, 2017

Assistant Professor Neural Mechanisms of Cognition and Behavior, Emory University (Atlanta, USA)

by Liu, Robert C

Assistant Professor, Neural Mechanisms of Cognition and Behavior The Department of Psychology at Emory University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the level of assistant professor with an anticipated start date of August 1, 2018. We seek applicants to establish an independent, federally-funded program of research aimed at understanding mechanisms of cognition and behavior at biological and psychological levels with a goal of building on Emory's strengths in behavioral, cognitive, affective, social, computational, developmental, and/or comparative neuroscience. We also seek applicants with a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate teaching. Laboratory space for small animals as well as research facilities for humans (including a research-dedicated 3T MRI scanner) are available. Applicants whose research uses cutting-edge techniques in small animals and bridges to studies with humans are particularly encouraged to apply. Ph.D. required. Candidates should submit applications at psychology.emory.edu. Please include a CV, a research statement, a teaching statement, two or three representative publications, and three letters of recommendation. Please also include a brief statement in your cover letter that addresses past activities and future plans to advance equity, inclusion, and diversity in your professional career. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2017, and applications received up to 30 days after review begins will be given full consideration. Emory University (Atlanta, GA) is a diverse community that values multiple perspectives and is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Disability/Veteran employer. Women, minorities, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. Robert C. Liu, PhD Associate Professor Department of Biology Emory University O. W. Rollins Research Center Rm 2131 1510 Clifton Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30322 USA Phone: +1 404-727-5274 Email: robert.liu(a)emory.edu<mailto:robert.liu@emory.edu> Lab Website<http://www.biology.emory.edu/research/Liu/html/index.php> ________________________________ This e-mail message (including any attachments) is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this message (including any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender by reply e-mail message and destroy all copies of the original message (including attachments).

Aug. 23, 2017

Doctoral student position - Robot-assisted modeling of spatial navigation paradigms in biological organisms

by samarasinghe＠ini.rub.de

*Research **Position **at the Institute for Neural Compu**ta**ti**o**n * A position as *d**octoral student **in integrative **n**euroscience and **c**ognitive **s**cience *is available immediately in the group of Prof. Sen Cheng in the Institute for Neural Computation at the Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. The research will focus on robot-assisted modeling of spatial navigation paradigms in biological organisms. Robotic simulations, as well as, physical robots will be used to develop and evaluate the desired models. The position will be funded at 50% of the standard salary scale TV-L E13. It is initially limited to 1 year with the possibility of extension, depending on the availability of funding. Candidates should have an excellent degree in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, engineering, or a related field. Competence in mathematical modeling, and excellent programming skills (Python, C/C++, or Matlab) are mandatory. Candidates are further required to have a strong background in at least one of the following fields: robotics, computational neuroscience, or cognitive modeling. Experience with interdisciplinary research in integrative neuroscience and cognitive science and with collaborative research would be a further asset. The working language at the institute is English. To apply, please send a statement of your research interests, academic transcripts, and a complete CV in one PDF file to samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de <mailto:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de> by 31.08.2017. Please also request from at least two academic referees that they send letters of reference directly to the same email address. Further information may be available at https://www.ini.rub.de/the_institute/jobs/. The Ruhr University Bochum provides a dynamic research environment in neuroscience and cognitive science. The Institute for Neural Computation unifies various core competencies extending from experimental and theoretical neuroscience to machine learning and robotics. The Ruhr University Bochum is committed to equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/26 Universitätstr. 150 D-44780 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27316 Email: samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de Hours: Monday 9-12 & 14-16; Friday 9-12 & 14-16; Wednesday 12 - 16

Aug. 23, 2017

Memory GATE opens early for 2 theoretical PhD students at SISSA

by Alessandro Treves

Memory research: Ground-breaking, Applied, and Technological Exchanges is an EU-funded Innovative Training Network coordinated by Francesco Battaglia and including groups at the Radboud (Nijmegen), UCLondon, NTNU-Trondheim, INSERM & AMU (Marseille), Weizmann, Janssen Pharma and SISSA, which will host 15 PhD students on projects taking different approaches to hippocampal memory functions, starting in early 2018. The two theorists to be hosted at SISSA, however, have to be admitted to its Cognitive Neuroscience PhD, by attending the exam in Trieste on Sept 11-12, 2017, see http://www.sissa.it ----------- Deadline August 31st, 2017 --------------- Ideal candidates, who can be of any nationality but must not have spent much time in Italy in the last 3 years, enjoy analytical, mathematical and computational excursions when seeking fundamental network understanding. Those admitted will be awarded a SISSA fellowship for the first few months, and later a much higher, EU-set M-GATE fellowship once the ITN operates. Feel free to inquire about limbo (then please send a CV) to ale(a)sissa.it -- Alessandro Treves http://people.sissa.it/~ale/limbo.html SISSA - Cognitive Neuroscience, via Bonomea 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy +39-040-3787623 Ambassador (BlaBlaCar) +39-349-2504602

Aug. 23, 2017