- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

What can you do with 1000 neurons? Task 2

by Nicolas P. Rougier (inria)

Dear all, The first task (simple decision) has been solved by a number of participants. Most of the models were able to survive in the proposed environment for quite a long time, and one entry used the optimal decision strategy, with only 22 neurons (out of 1000 available). The challenge is still running with a new task (cued decision, which might be simpler) and a new agenda (you have two months). You'll find instructions at https://github.com/rougier/braincraft the rules for the new task. Reminder: you have have 1000 neurons (leaky rate models), 100 seconds of training time and 10 runs for evaluation. The difficulty comes from the imposed constraints. You have to 2 months to propose your model. Best, Nicolas Rougier. -- Nicolas P. Rougier —— www.labri.fr/perso/nrougier Institute of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bordeaux

Sept. 3, 2025

COSYNE 2026: Meeting announcement; Call for Abstracts

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2026 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 12 - 15 March 2026 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 16 - 17 March 2026 Cascais, Portugal www.cosyne.org ==================================================== ---------------------------------------------------- MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. All abstract submissions will be reviewed double blind. The deadline for Abstract submission will be 16 October 2025. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural basis of behavior, sensory and motor systems, circuitry, learning, neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, neuromodulation, and computation with spiking networks. We would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. IMPORTANT DATES Abstract submission opens: 05 September 2025 Abstract submission deadline: 16 October 2025 When preparing an abstract, authors should be aware that not all abstracts can be accepted for the meeting. Abstracts will be selected based on the clarity with which they convey the substance, significance, and originality of the work to be presented. ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Tatiana Engel (Princeton) and Kevin Franks (Duke) Program Chairs: Kimberly Stachenfeld (DeepMind) and Mark Histed (NIH) Workshop Chairs: N Alex Cayco Gajic (ENS) and Guillaume Lajoie (MILA/U Montreal) Tutorial Chairs: Eva Dyer (Georgia Tech) and Talmo Pereira (Salk) Mentorship and Networking Chairs: Denise Cai (Mount Sinai) and Luke Sjulson (Albert Einstein) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Lea Duncker (Columbia) and Kevin Miller (DeepMind) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) Social Media Chair: Sabera Talukder (Caltech) Audio-Video Media Chair: Carlos Stein Brito (Chamaplimaud) Poster Design: Maja Bialon PROGRAM COMMITTEE Mark Histed (NIH) Co-chair Kimberly Stachenfeld (DeepMind) Co-chair Mikio Aoi (UCSD) Arkarup Banerjee (CSHL) Helen Barron (Oxford) Marcus Benna (UCSD) Adrian Bondy (Princeton) N Alex Cayco Gajic (ENS) Hannah Choi (Georgia Tech) Ben Cowley (CSHL) Brian DePasquale (BU) Sridhar Devarajan (IISc) Laura Driscoll (Allen Institute) Eva Dyer (U Penn) Becket Ebitz (U Montreal) Noemi Elteto (DeepMind) Arseny Finkelstein (Tel Aviv U) Juan Alvaro Gallego (Imperial) Matt Golub (U Washington) Laura Grima (Janelia) Bilal Haider (Georgia Tech) Kiah Hardcastle (Harvard) Y Kate Hong (CMU) Michele Insanally (U Pittsburgh) Jonathan Kao (UCLA) Ann Kennedy (Northwestern) Kishore Kuchibhotla (JHU) Anna Levina (U Tubingen) Camilo Libedinsky (National Institute of Singapore) Laureline Logiaco (CU Anschutz) Emily Mace (Med Cntr Gottingen) Emily Mackevicius (Basis) Francesca Mastrogiuseppe (Champalimaud) Alexander Mathis (EPFL) Luca Mazzucatto (U Oregon) Dan McNamee (Champalimaud) Jorge Mejias (UVA) James Murray (U Oregon) Hendrikje Nienborg (NIH) Ramon Nogueira Manas (U Chicago) Gouki Okazawa (Inst of Neurosci, China) Marino Pagan (U Edinburgh) Agostina Palmigiano (UCL) Hannah Payne (NYU) Rui Ponte Costa (Oxford) Carolina Rezaval (U Birmingham) Erin Rich (NYU) Alex Roxin (Centre de Recerca Matematica) Shreya Saxena (Yale) Benjamin Scott (BU) Alireza Soltani (Dartmouth) Nicholas Steinmetz (UW) Carsen Stringer (Janelia) Jennifer Sun (Cornell, DeepMind) Marie Suver (Vanderbilt) Tatjana Tschumatchenko (U Bonn) John Tuthill (U Washington) Ali Weber (Bryn Mawr) Brandon (Brady) Weissbourd (MIT) Alex Williams (NYU) Klaus Wimmer (Centre de Recerca Matematica) Anqi Wu (Georgia Tech) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org ----------------------------------------------------- COSYNE MAILING LISTS ----------------------------------------------------- Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> About-> Mailing lists for details.

Sept. 2, 2025

BabyBench Competition @ IEEE ICDL 2025: deadline extended to September 8

by Jochen Triesch

Dear colleagues, Due to several requests the deadline of the first BabyBench Competition @ IEEE ICDL 2025 has been extended to September 8 (midnight, Pacific time). This first BabyBench Competition (https://babybench.github.io/2025) is featured at the IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning (ICDL) 2025 (https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/) The topic is how infants discover their own bodies. Can you help the multimodal infant model MIMo learn two typical infant behaviors: self touch and hand regard? What is BabyBench? BabyBench is a Multimodal Benchmark of Infant Behaviors for Developmental Artificial Intelligence. The goal of the competition is to devise learning algorithms that allow MIMo to obtain important milestones of cognitive development. We provide the embodiment, the simulation environments, and the evaluation metrics; all you need is to implement your ideas. Are you up for the challenge? Important dates • New submission deadline: September 8, 2025 • Winner announcement at ICDL: September 19, 2025 Why Participate? • Low Entry Barrier: Get started quickly using our pre-defined, user-friendly simulation environment. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a curious newcomer, the BabyBench platform is designed to let you focus on modeling, not engineering. • The winner will receive a €150 prize sponsored by the IEEE RAS TC Cognitive Robotics. • All finalists will receive a certificate at the IEEE ICDL. • Contribute to the Developmental AI community! For more information visit: https://babybench.github.io/2025 Main contact point: Francisco Lopez (fcomlop(a)gmail.com) Feel free to forward this to anyone who might be interested! Warm regards, The BabyBench 2025 Organizing Team Francisco M. López (Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies) Valentin Marcel (Czech Technical University in Prague) Xavier Hinaut (INRIA Bordeaux) Jochen Triesch (Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies) Matej Hoffmann (Czech Technical University in Prague)

Sept. 2, 2025

Job offer for Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroimaging (Psychosis & Lifespan Normative Modelling)

by christian.gaser＠uni-jena.de

**Employer**: Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital **Contract**: 2 years initially; renewable for up to 3 additional years subject to performance **Project**: “The glue that holds the pieces together”: Unlocking Cognitive Health in Psychotic Disorders (Wellcome Trust) **Application deadline**: 30 September 2025 **Preferred start**: from November 2025 *Short description* This project will (i) quantify global and regional deviations from typical ageing using brain-age models, (ii) disentangle prenatal vs. postnatal structural deviations by leveraging lifespan normative models for cortical gyrification and grey-matter volume, and (iii) characterise and predict longitudinal brain change in psychosis by estimating individual rates of ageing. *Role* You will extend BrainAGE from global estimates to regional normative models using Bayesian regression and GAMLSS to derive age- and region-specific reference distributions (centiles) and individual deviation scores. The work spans multi-site morphometry, scanner harmonisation, model comparison, and external validation. You will work closely with the project lead at the University of Bath and collaborate with partners in Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Cardiff on all aims, including joint analyses and dissemination. *What we offer* * Join the small, highly engaged team behind the CAT12 toolbox and BrainAGE. * A collaborative, supportive atmosphere with genuine day-to-day interaction and room to do your best work. * Close collaboration with the Bath lead and active links to Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Cardiff (regular cross-site meetings and joint outputs). *Requirements* * PhD in Psychology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Neuroscience, Physics, or a related field. * Strong skills in machine learning and statistics; experience with Gaussian process regression and/or probabilistic regression. * Experience with normative modelling is an advantage. * Proficiency in Python (and ideally C/C++); experience with MRI morphometry. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team; excellent written and spoken English. *Application* Please send one PDF containing: motivation letter; CV (including publications); degree certificates with grades; list of relevant courses; and the names and email addresses of two referees to Christian.Gaser(a)uni-jena.de till 30 September 2025. *Contact* For further information about the project, contact: Prof. Dr. Christian Gaser — Tel: +49-3641-9325778 — Email: Christian.Gaser(a)uni-jena.de

Sept. 1, 2025

Tenure track position in Lyon: AI & Neurociences

by DI VOLO MATTEO

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the opening of a Junior Professor (CPJ) position at the University of Lyon 1, entitled Towards a New Convergence of AI and Neuroscience The recruited candidate will lead a research project focused on the development of biologically plausible AI models, linking physiology and cognition. The position is affiliated with the CRNL (Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon): https://www.crnl.fr/fr On the teaching side, the CPJ will contribute to the creation and promotion of new interdisciplinary training programs at the interface of AI and Biology/Health, across Bachelor, Master, and Engineering levels. A funding package of 260,000 euros (in addition to the candidate’s salary) is allocated to support of this project. Applications must be submitted via the French Galaxie–Odyssee platform, closing on September 11. Please note that an account must be created to access the platform. Contacts: * Research Laurent Bezin, CRNL Director – laurent.bezin(a)cnrs.fr<mailto:laurent.bezin@cnrs.fr> Jérémie MAattout, CRNL - jeremie.mattout(a)inserm.fr * Teaching Matteo Di Volo – matteo.di-volo(a)univ-lyon1.fr We would appreciate it if you could circulate this announcement within your networks. Many thanks, Matteo di Volo

Sept. 1, 2025

Reminder: Call for proposals_EduBrains Training Programme ***deadline 04.09.25***

by Frings, Maren

Dear all, We hope this email finds you well. We would like to kindly remind you about the ongoing call for proposals for the EduBrains training series, a unique opportunity for early-career researcher! The training program will offer the opportunity to: * Gain practical and theoretical skills in innovative brain health research * Become a power user of <https://www.ebrains.eu/> EBRAINS, the open research infrastructure that gathers data, tools and computing facilities for brain-related research * Receive training on ethics, dual use, data protection and FAIR open science * Connect with international initiatives, institutions and leading scientists The series of events comprises a total of seven modules over a period of 24 months, which are planned as on-site and online events. Send us an application letter in English explaining your motivation for participating in the training series and include two letters of recommendation until 04.09.2025 to <mailto:edubrains@fz-juelich.de> edubrains(a)fz-juelich.de. More information can be found https://foldercase.com/proext.php?pid=466. and, in case of questions, feel free to contact us. Spaces are limited, don´t miss the chance to be part of this unique initiative! Warm regards, Maren and Valentina Dr. Maren Frings Project Manager Simulation & Data Lab Neuroscience Division HPC in Life Science Jülich Supercomputing Centre Tel +49 2461 61-6431 Fax +49 2461 61-6656 <http://www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc> www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht (Vorsitzende), Dr. Stephanie Bauer (stellvertretende Vorsitzende), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Laurens Kuipers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht (Vorsitzende), Dr. Stephanie Bauer (stellvertretende Vorsitzende), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Laurens Kuipers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sept. 1, 2025

PhD position on multiscale theory and simulation of human language processing

by Tilo Schwalger

A PhD position on multiscale theory and simulation of human language processing is available in the group of Prof. Tilo Schwalger at the Technical University Berlin and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (https://page.math.tu-berlin.de/~schwalge) Germany. The position is offered in the context of the project The Role of Long-Range Brain Connectivity in Human Language Processing (ConnLingua), a collaboration between the Technical University Berlin, the Max-Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (Leipzig), the Technical University Chemnitz, and the Czech Acedemy of Science (Prague). We will use spiking neural network models for cortical microcircuits, models of white-matter connectivity as well as advanced mean-field methods and human MEG data to develop a whole-brain model that elucidates the neural mechanisms of syntactic language operations. The candidate should have a background in physics, mathematics, computer science, or computational neuroscience. Excellent analytical and programming skills as well as a keen interest in mathematical modeling are required. In addition, expertise in stochastic nonlinear dynamics is desirable. At the Bernstein center, we offer a structured program guiding doctoral researchers through the PhD work and plenty of opportunities for collaborations. The PhD student will also benefit from intensive scientific interactions among researchers of the different labs of the project. For more details, please contact me (e-mail: tilo.schwalger(a)bccn-berlin.de) Please include a CV with publication list. -- Prof. Dr. Tilo Schwalger Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin Philippstr. 13, Haus 6, 10115 Berlin Room: 202, phone: 0049(0)302093 6788 Technische Universität Berlin Institute of Mathematics Straße des 17. Juni 136, 10623 Berlin Room: 784, phone: +49 (0)30 314-22698 http://page.math.tu-berlin.de/~schwalge tilo.schwalger(a)bccn-berlin.de

Aug. 28, 2025

Submissions Open to the Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Research Topic

by Amin Kamaleddin

Dear Colleagues, We're pleased to announce an open call for submissions to the Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Research Topic: Advancements in Neural Coding: Sensory Perception and Multiplexed Encoding Strategies A comprehensive collection exploring neural coding principles across sensory systems, including multiplexed encoding, temporal dynamics, neuromorphic hardware implementations, noise resilience, and beyond. Why submit? - This Research Topic is currently accepting submissions - Articles may include Original Research, Methods, Reviews, Hypotheses & Theory, and more—refer to the full list of article types on the collection webpage Submit via this link: Submission Link Key next steps: - Review the section’s Author Guidelines to ensure your manuscript aligns with scope and formatting. - Reach out promptly—though no formal deadline is stated, early submissions are encouraged. Please share this with peers whose work aligns with the topic, and consider contributing to this timely and impactful collection. Best regards,

Aug. 27, 2025

Tenure Track Position at Rice University

by Caleb Kemere

Dear Colleagues, The Department of BioSciences at Rice University (biosciences.rice.edu) invites applications for an tenure track faculty position. We seek candidates with research programs in theoretical and computational neuroscience, including those who seek to understand nervous system structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and/or developmental levels. All ranks (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor) with a track record of research excellence commensurate with their seniority will be considered. Application review will start October 1, 2025 and will continue until the positions are filled. More information can be found here: https://apply.interfolio.com/172558 Please pass along this announcement to any potential candidates you know who might be interested. Any inquiries regarding this search may be sent to Drs. Rosa Uribe (ru5(a)rice.edu) and Joff Silberg (joff(a)rice.edu) Caleb Kemere -- – 713-348-6089 : MS-384 : BRC971 : http://rnel.rice.edu – – Assoc. Prof, Rice University Electrical & Computer Engineering –

Aug. 26, 2025

Tübingen System Neuroscience Symposium 2025 (SNS2025)

by Tübingen SNS

The Centre for Integrative Neuroscience of the University of Tübingen is pleased to announce the *Tübingen Systems Neuroscience Symposium 2025 (SNS2025)* on *October 6 and 7, 2025 * This annual international meeting will bring together leading researchers in the field of systems neuroscience featuring plenary lectures, poster sessions and social events. Join us in Tübingen to learn about latest advances in systems neuroscience. Confirmed speakers: Marlene Cohen, *University of Chicago* Simone Ebert, *University of Tübingen* Marion Inostroza, *University of Tübingen* Tim Kietzmann,* University of Osnabrück* Etienne Koechlin, *Ecole Normale Supérieure de Paris* Floris de Lange, *Radboud University Nijmegen* Jan Lause, *University of Tübingen* Arthur Lefevre, *University of Lyon* Valerio Mante,* ETH and University of Zürich* Emily Oby, *Queen's University* Liina Pylkkänen, *New York University* Tomás Ryan, *Trinity College Dublin* Laura Seidler, *University of Tübingen* Sylvia Schröder, *University of Sussex* Manuel Spitschan, *Max Planck Institute Biological Cybernetics* Christopher Summerfield, *Oxford University* Mara Wolter, *University of Tübingen* For more information and registration, please visit: http://meg.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/sns_2025/ Follow us on: 🦋 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/snstuebingen.bsky.social 🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/tuebingen_SNS Best regards, SNS 2025 Conference Organizers

Aug. 26, 2025