- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Open PhD / Postdoc position at Ulm University

by Dr. Schwenker

In the *Institute of Neural Information Processing at Ulm University, Germany,* we can offer a *PhD-student or postdoc position* from June or July 2015 until the end of 2016 with some potential of prolongation. We are working on artificial neural networks and learning systems for pattern recognition, in particular on the use of affective information in human-computer-interaction and companion systems. The particular research focus of this position is on the combination of methods and observations from sensor-based pattern recognition with methods and information from relational knowledge representation and/or the handling of uncertainty in this kind of neuro-symbolic integration. The research topic is part of a collaborative interdisciplinary research project (SFB-TR 62) on “A companion technology for cognitive technical systems”, see http://www.uni-ulm.de/en/in/sfb-transregio-62.html?no_cache=1 If you are interested and already have some experience in some of these areas, please send us your CV, a statement of your current research interest and a list of your publications. For further information, please contact me by email or phone (see below). --------------------- Prof. Dr. Guenther Palm Director of the Institute of Neural Information Processing University of Ulm 89069 Ulm Germany phone: ++49 731 50 24150 fax: ++49 731 50 24156 email: guenther.palm(a)uni-ulm.de

March 20, 2015

CfP : Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School 2015

by BCBT, Bústia Compartida

*Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School (BCBT2015)* University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. August 31st to September 11th, 2015 http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt15 <http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt15/home> Join us for the annual *"Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology summer school - BCBT2015 *" (see* http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt15/home <http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt15/home>*) to be held from August 31st to September 11th, 2015 in Barcelona Spain. The BCBT summer school is part of a series of events organized by the Convergent Science Network of Biomimetics and Neurotechnology ( http://csnetwork.eu/) and is positioned at the interface between biology and future and emerging technologies with an emphasis on the principles underlying brains and their translation to avant-garde technologies. BCBT promotes a shared systems-level understanding of the functional architecture of the brain and its possible emulation in artificial systems. This is the 8th year of BCBT, which has ran with great success in previous years thanks to an excellent line-up of outstanding speakers (see bcbt.upf.edu for previous editions of the school). BCBT lectures are available online (see http://csnetwork.eu/) as well as the CSN *Podcast interviews *with many of the BCBT speakers. BCBT caters to students and researchers involved in projects that are in the ambit of “BIO-ICT convergence”, "Brain Inspired ICT", “Cognitive systems-robotics”. BCBT will offer up to 30 student slots for the practical workshops while as many researchers can register to attend the presentations and discussion sessions, as they are interested. The atmosphere of the BCBT summer school is informal with the goal to stimulate in-depth discussion. There are presentations in the morning, usually 2, with the afternoons reserved for tutorials and projects for student participants and road-mapping workshops or further discussion for senior scientists. For the 2015 edition we plan a *1st week* of the school addressing *Evolutionary and Developmental aspects of nervous systems and behavior *while the *2nd week* will include presentations aimed at the investigation of *Decision making*. Friday 11 is reserved for the presentation of the student projects to which everybody is invited. *Application deadline: July 27th, 2015* For more information on to apply, please go to http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt15/participate <http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt14/home>BCBT2015 is supported by the Convergent Science Network of Biomimetics and Neurotechnology (http://csnetwork.eu/) and is co-organized by Paul Verschure (BCBT Chair), ICREA and University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES Tony Prescott (BCBT Co-Chair) University of Sheffield, UK Anna Mura (BCBT Co-Chair), University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES In collaboration with Leah Krubizer (BCBT Co-Chair) UC Davis, CA, USA Gustavo Deco (BCBT Co-Chair), ICREA and University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES

March 20, 2015

available grants: Systems Neuroscience - a study abroad summer program in Budapest

by Érdi Péter

BSCS grants are available for our Systems Neuroscience: a study abroad summer program in Budapest. For students with European passports we are proud to announce a limited number of grants by Eötvös University is available! The tuition fee AND accommodation is a dramatically reduced 1000 euro. Program start/end dates June 8th- Aug 7th, 2015 The BSCS Systems Neuroscience Program takes place at and academically supervised by the Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest **************************************** Applications should be sent to ALL of these addresses by April 15th. However, they will be reviewed on rolling base! Péter Érdi (SysNeuro Director; BSCS Co-Director), perdi(a)kzoo.edu László Négyessy SysNeuro Co-Director <negyessy(a)gmail.com> bscs(a)bscs-us.org

March 20, 2015

NEURAL COMPUTATION - April 1, 2015

by Terry Sejnowski

NEURAL COMPUTATION - April 1, 2015 Neural Computation - Volume 27, Number 4 - April 1, 2015 Available online for download now: http://www.mitpressjournals.org/toc/neco/27/4 ----- Articles Spontaneous Action Potentials and Neural Coding in Un-myelinated Axons Cian O'Donnell, Mark C.W. van Rossum Accurate Connection Strength Estimation Based on Variational Bayes for Detecting Synaptic Plasticity Takuya Isomura, Yutaro Ogawa, Kiyoshi Kotani, and Yasuhiko Jimbo Letters Hardware-Amenable Structural Learning for Spike-based Pattern Classification Using a Simple Model of Active Dendrites Shaista Hussain, Shih-Chii Liu, and Arindam Basu Neuronal Calcium Wave Propagation Varies With Changes in Endoplasmic Reticulum Parameters: A Computer Model Samuel A Neymotin, Robert A McDougal, Mohamed A Sherif, Christopher P Fall, Michael L. Hines, and William W Lytton Visual Tracking Using Neuromorphic Asynchronous Event-based Cameras Zhenjiang Ni, Sio-Hoi Ieng, Christoph Posch, Stephane Regnier, and Ryad Benosman The Benefits of Modelling Slack Variables in SVMs Fengzhen Tang, Peter Tino, Pedro Antonio Gutierrez, and Huanhuan Chen A Study on the Optimal Double-Parameters for Steepest Descent With Momentum Naimin Zhang ------------ ON-LINE -- http://www.mitpressjournals.org/neuralcomp SUBSCRIPTIONS - 2015 - VOLUME 27 - 12 ISSUES Student/Retired $75 Individual $134 Institution $1,075 MIT Press Journals, One Rogers Street, Cambridge, MA 02142-1209 Tel: (617) 253-2889 FAX: (617) 577-1545 journals-cs(a)mit.edu ------------

March 19, 2015

postdoc in Neuroscience / Neural Engineering position available

by Sergiy Yakovenko

POSTDOC: We have funding from NIH to support a Postdoctoral Fellow position in Neuroscience / Neural Engineering The West Virginia University Research Corporation (WVURC) seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Fellow – Neuroscience/Neural Engineering in the Department of Human Performance at West Virginia University. This position will support the research of corticospinal reorganization after CNS injury using micro-electrode array technology for the interaction with the disrupted CNS, and will work on the development of neuroprosthetics with animal models of neurological conditions. A PhD in physiology, neuroscience, or highly-related areas, experience in Matlab, and a demonstrated record of strong scientific publications in the field of neuroscience, particularly on the topic of systems motor control are required. A PhD in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, neurophysiology, or highly-related fields is preferred. Competitive salary and benefits package offered. For a complete job description and to apply for this position, please visit http://hr.research.wvu.edu <http://hr.research.wvu.edu/> and click on the “WVURC Employment Opportunities” link. AA/EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability/E-verify compliant employer DETAILS: West Virginia University Research Corporation Postdoctoral Fellow Position Description Working Title Postdoctoral Fellow – Neuroscience/Neural Engineering (EXERPH 15-0027) Department HSC/Exercise Physiology Minimum Salary Requirements FY 2015 Postdoctoral Fellow NIH range: 0 years of experience – $42,840/year 1 year of experience – $44,556/year 2 years of experience – $46,344/year 3 years of experience – $48,192/year Position Location Morgantown/Monongalia County Position Terms Full-time (40hpw), benefits eligible FLSA Status Exempt WVURC Position Type Specialist/Lead WVURC Functional Group Technology & Engineering EEO Reporting Category Professionals Standard Occupation Code 17-2031 SR WC Code/Rate 4511/.58 Prepared By Carla Davis Prepared Date February 25, 2015 Approved By Dr. Sergiy Yakovenko Posting Date March 13, 2015 Purpose This position supports the research of corticospinal reorganization after CNS injury using micro-electrode array technology for the interaction with the disrupted CNS. It works on the development of neuroprosthetics with animal models of neurological conditions. The incumbent serves as a resource contact relative to the research project. Depth skills, knowledge, and interpretive abilities, as well as some creativity, are required to successfully perform duties. Independently uses professional concepts and organizational policies to solve a wide range of moderate to complex problems in imaginative and practical ways. Work effort often addresses non-routine matters within established protocol, guidelines, and/or policies. Work effort has significant impact on client services and operations, producing moderate to major organizational, legal and financial results and/or liabilities. Position duties require oversight of projects. Duties & Responsibilities Responsibilities are functional in nature, and performed under limited supervision. Specific tasks include, but are not limited to: Perform the leadership role in rodent surgeries, stimulation – recording sessions, dataset analysis, and paper publication, with support from faculty investigators and a laboratory technician. Attend research conferences and read scientific literature to keep abreast of technological advances and current research findings. Identify and assist with acquisition of funding from public, private, and governmental sources. Assist with development of novel research proposals for sponsor submission. Write proposals, papers, and abstracts to attract research funds. Search scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for research goals. Perform laboratory and field experiment activities according to protocol. Independent experimental data analysis. Maintain detailed logs of work related activities, including accurate laboratory records and data on research methods, procedures, and results. Oversee research facilities and personnel Assure compliance with research protocols and safety requirements. Oversee and direct undergraduate and graduate researchers in the completion of experiments. Maintain lab equipment; keep accurate inventory of lab assets; monitor and assure proper use and conditions of lab equipment. Write and present research/study status reports for review and use of the Principal Investigator. Prepare results of experimental findings for presentation to colleagues and the sponsor; at professional/technical conferences; and/or, for publication in scientific journals, as directed. Supervisory/Lead Role This position reports to the Principal Investigator. It normally receives no instructions on routine work, but will receive instructions/advice when starting a new project or when a difficulty arises in the current project. Typically determines methods or procedures and consults with the supervisor on new assignments. General sharing of knowledge and team participation is expected in the role. Guidance or supervision of others may be required. Physical Demands Requires physical abilities to perform laboratory research, including manual dexterity and abilities to see, hear, walk, talk, and feel. Individual is required to lift and carry items of 25 lbs or less or transport such items by cart. Walking and stair climbing occur on a daily basis. Work Environment Work will be performed in a standard laboratory environment, using computers and laboratory equipment with electrical connections. The incumbent must comply with all laboratory safety procedures and clothing/equipment requirements. There will be exposure to laboratory chemicals, electrical supplies, but protective measures will be provided. Requisite Qualifications Education and/or Experience PhD in physiology, neuroscience, or highly-related areas; Experience in Matlab, and a demonstrated record of strong scientific publications in the field of neuroscience, particularly on the topic of systems motor control. Skills, Knowledge, Abilities Skilled at communicating effectively, both orally, and in writing, in English. Skilled at using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. Skilled at identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem. Ability to document and present the results of research. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format as well as use original or innovative techniques or style due to the nature of the scientific content of the material being presented. Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to technical and non-technical audiences Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, etc.). Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Ability to meet deadlines, as well as prepare, present and report results effectively. Ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of co-investigators from diverse disciplines, orientations, and organizations. Ability to do strategic planning for program development. Behavioral Competencies Technical skills – Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; pursues training and development opportunities; assess strengths, weaknesses, and shares expertise with others. Problem solving – Gathers and analyzes information, identifies problems, develops alternatives, uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics and works well in groups and resolves matters timely. Interpersonal Interactions in the Workplace – Manages difficult or emotional matters with objectivity and openness; responds promptly to needs and requests for service and assistance; meets commitments and dates, notifies others if change occurs; provides, solicits and applies feedback; and builds goodwill through balanced contributions, positive approach, respect and support of others. Communications – Demonstrates group presentation skills, participates in meetings, listens and gets clarification, is responsive and speaks clearly and persuasively in positive and negative situations. Writes and edits clearly and informatively, varies style to meet needs, presents numerical data effectively, and able to read and interpret written information. Organizational Support – Aligns work and develops strategies to meet organizational goals; seeks to improve and promote quality; demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; and upholds organizational expectations and values. Self-Management – Responds to management direction; resourcefully adapts to changes in work environment and circumstances; responds well under pressure and manages competing demands; takes calculated risks, asks for and offers help when needed; exercise discretion and sound judgment; is tactful and responsible for own actions. Adheres to work schedule and complies with leave management responsibilities. Preferred Qualifications & Credentials Education and/or Experience PhD in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, neurophysiology, or highly-related fields. Cheers, Sergiy -- Sergiy Yakovenko, Ph.D. Assistant Professor WVU Neural Engineering Laboratory http://sites.google.com/site/sergiyyakovenko/ <http://sites.google.com/site/sergiyyakovenko/>

March 19, 2015

registration for RLDM2015 is now open (early registration deadline: April 21st)

by Yael Niv

The 2nd Multidisciplinary Conference on Reinforcement Learning and Decision Making (RLDM2015) www.rldm.org June 7-10, The University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada ====================================================== Registration for RLDM2015 is now open at http://rldm.org/rldm2015/registration/ Early registration fees for the meeting and tutorials are $250 CAD for predoc/postdoc, $480 CAD for regular registration, and $590 CAD for industry. Main meeting only is somewhat cheaper, but you miss out on the wonderful tutorials (http://rldm.org/rldm2015/tutorials/) Registration fees include three light breakfasts, all coffee breaks, two lunches, and one banquet dinner. ** Early registration ends April 21st ** We are excited to announce that RLDM2015 attracted 127 submissions. Accept/reject notifications will be sent by March 28. The list of invites speakers is already available at http://rldm.org/rldm2015/invited-speakers2015/ We look forward to seeing you in Alberta! The RLDM2015 organizing committee -------- To ensure that you receive future announcements about RLDM2015 please join our mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/RLDMlist (you must log in to google to see the "join list" button, and choose 'all emails' in the options).

March 19, 2015

Post-doc in MEG- EEG based neuroimaging and/or real-tierm EEG

by Alex Ossadtchi

Higher School of Economics is pleased to announce new CAS-funded post-doctoral posts at the Neuroimaging and BCI Group <http://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/Methods>. Research topics include: novel methods for solving EEG and MEG inverse problem, source space analysis of synchrony, techniques for improvement of neurofeedback efficacy and motor imagery BCI. The laboratory is a structural part of the HSE’s Centre for Cognition & Decision Making <http://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre> with ample collaboration opportunities within the Centre as well as with other research groups at HSE, within Russia, and internationally. Research facilities include multi-channel EEG, navigated TMS-EEG, behavioral, and eye-tracking equipment. The Center also provides access to MEG, fMRI and a range of neurological populations. This new international group collaborates with a number of leading researchers around the world including Richard Leahy(University of Southern California), Sylvain Baillet, Karim Jerbi (McGill University), Judson Brewer (University of Massachusetts at Amherst), Mark Pflieger (Cortech Solutions, USA), Dirk de Ridder (University of Otago). The post holders will have an advantage of being able to further define and expand the group’s research programme. Further to working on the group's current research strands, the successful candidates will also be encouraged to pursue their own research program. The job involves: - working under the direct supervision of Prof. Alexei Ossadtchi <http://www.hse.ru/en/org/persons/96086377> - participants are encouraged to pursue their own research in source analysis using EEG and MEG measurements, source space analysis of synchrony, developing techniques for improvement of neurofeedback efficacy and motor imagery BCI. - writing research papers for international peer-reviewed journals in co-authorship with the members of the Lab - some teaching as well as public presentations of candidate’s own research are also encouraged - participation in organization of the events and other contribution to the Lab’s development Requirements: - Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics or related discipline - Demonstrated skills in signal processing and analysis of multidimensional real life data - Familiarity with Matlab and Ptython - Fluent English (knowledge of Russian is not required) - Demonstrated ability and high motivation to conduct high-quality research publishable in quality international peer-reviewed journals General conditions for Post-Doctoral Research positions can be found here <http://cas.hse.ru/general_postdoc>. Appointments will be normally made for one year. Please apply via online application form <http://cas.hse.ru/en/expresspolls/poll/144697605.html> and attach you CV and research statement. Two letters of recommendations should be sent directly to fellowship(a)hse.ru <https://mail2.hse.ru/owa/redir.aspx?SURL=rCOCfgIWdO7CcYm5xF0qVx2XV9ZQ4EG2j8…> by April 1, 2015. The HSE <http://hse.ru/en> is a young, dynamic, fast-growing Russian research university providing unique research opportunities.

March 18, 2015

postdoc position available

by Dick Aslin

POSTDOC: Harvard/Rochester project on cognitive neuroscience (EEG and fNIRS) in human infants Funding from NSF is expected for a 1.5-year postdoc to collect and analyze datasets gathered from human infants while they view visual stimuli or listen to language stimuli. This is a joint project between the Rochester Babylab (Richard Aslin, PI) and the Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience lab at Harvard (Charles Nelson, PI). Rochester lab: http://babylab.bcs.rochester.edu/ Boston lab: http://www.childrenshospital.org/research-and-innovation/research/labs/nels… The goal of the project is to gather EEG and fNIRS data from 3- to 12-month-olds and merge these datasets, within-subjects at each age, using multivariate pattern classification and representational similarity analysis methods. The successful candidate could reside either in Rochester, NY or Boston, MA, with some travel expected between both sites. The preferred skill set consists of one or more of the following: experience with the testing of human infants, collection and analysis of EEG data, collection and analysis of fNIRS or fMRI data, use of machine learning techniques such as MVPA, fluency in Matlab. A machine learning consultant on the grant (Radislaw Cichy) will provide guidance for many of the analyses. Candidate must have a PhD (or firm plans to defend their dissertation no later than August of 2015). Preferred start date is July 1, 2015. Interested applicants should forward a cover letter, CV, and the names of three references to Richard Aslin: aslin(a)mail.cvs.rochester.edu. Review of application materials will begin on May 1 and continue until a candidate has been chosen. -- NOTE: new email address is aslin(a)mail.cvs.rochester.edu Richard N. Aslin William R. Kenan Professor Brain and Cognitive Sciences University of Rochester http://www.bcs.rochester.edu/people/faculty/aslin_richard/

March 18, 2015

on behalf of Boris Gutkin - postdoc position Moscow

by Reinoud Maex

Please reply to boris.gutkin(a)gmail.com. Theoretical Neuroscience Group Postdoctoral research positions. Deadline: April 1, 2015 Theoretical Neuroscience — computational and mathematical approaches to understanding neural function and cognition. Research interests of the Theoretical Neuroscience Group at the Centre for Cognition and Decision Making are wide ranging, carried out in collaboration with the experimental labs at the research center and the faculty of applied mathematics. Research themes include models of social decision-making, computational neuroeconomics, information processing in neurons and circuits as well as computational approaches to drug addiction and role of oscillations in cognition. The group is linked with the Group for Neural Theory at the Ecole Normale Superior in Paris, where research internships and visiting positions can be made available. We are seeking highly qualified and motivated candidate with backgrounds in quantitative disciplines: applied mathematics, physics, computer science or engineering. Programming skills and ability to carry put interdisciplinary projects are required. Ability to work with data is recommended. Candidates will be trained in model building, analysis and will be offered advanced training in neuroscience and cognitive psychology. Candidates will be expected to develop independent research projects and collaborations under the direction of the group leading scientists. Publications in international peers reviewed venues are expected as tangible out outcomes of the research. Group leader — Boris Gutkin. General conditions for Post-Doctoral Research positions can be found here. Appointments will be normally made for one year. Please apply via online application form and attach you CV and research statement. Two letters of recommendations should be sent directly to fellowship(a)hse.ru by April 1, 2015. The HSE is a young, dynamic, fast-growing Russian research university providing unique research opportunities.

March 18, 2015

Workshop on Nonlinear Dynamics in Computational Neuroscience: from Physics and Biology to ICT

by Alessandro Torcini

Here is the First Announcement of the 10th SICC International Tutorial Workshop on "Topics in nonlinear dynamics" <<Nonlinear Dynamics in Computational Neuroscience: from Physics and Biology to ICT>> to be held on September 07-09, 2015 in Turin, Italy Organizers: Fernando Corinto (Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy) Alessandro Torcini (ISC-CNR, Florence, Italy) This workshop "Nonlinear Dynamics in Computational Neuroscience: from Physics and Biology to ICT” offers an unique opportunity to meet researchers working across (and between) disciplines linked to Computational Neuroscience. In particular, computational neuroscients, neurophysiologists and neural engineers will have the opportunity to present their most recent results to a young audience, constituted mainly by PhD students, and to interact directly among them. The program ranges from nonlinear dynamical approaches to the understanding of neural computation to physiology, from the simulations of brain circuits to the development of engineering devices and platforms for neuromorphic computation. The speakers will be specifically advised to perform didactic presentations of their results in order to allow the active participation to the discussion of young PhD students from different disciplines as well as to researchers interested in the field of Computational Neuroscience. Specific poster sessions will be organized with the purpose on one side to allow the young participants to present their latest results and on the other side to increase the opportunity of networking among the participants and renowed experts of the discipline. This workshop represents the 10th of a series of tutorial workshops annually organized by the Italian Society of Chaos and Complexity (SICC) to explore the emergence of new research fields, where nonlinear dynamics and control theory can play a relevant role. These workshops have been traditionally devoted to an audience mainly constituted by PhD students or young researchers working in complex systems. A poster session will be running during all the event and aimed to let all the participants to present their recent results. More information on the workshop can be found in the web page: http://www.neuro-eng-comp.polito.it/workshop/ Confirmed invited speakers include Cristina Becchio (University of Turin, Italy) Ruben Moreno Bote (CIBERSAM - Barcelona, Spain) George Bourianov (Intel/University of Texas at Austin, USA) Emilio Carbone (University of Turin, Italy) Stephen Coombes (University of Nottingham, UK) Steve Furber (The University of Manchester, UK) Julius Georgiou (University of Cyprus, Cyprus) Viktor Jirsa (INSERM - Marseille, France) Luke P. Lee (UC Berkeley, USA) Stefano Luccioli (ISC CNR - Florence, Italy) Maurizio Mattia (ISS - Roma, Italy) Benedetto Sacchetti (University of Turin, Italy) Maria Sanchez-Vives (IDIBAPS - Barcelona, Spain) Ronald Tetzlaff (TU Dresden, Germany) The workshop is kindly supported by the: SICC - Italian Society for Chaos and Complexity, IEEE Circuits and Systems Society - CASS Surplus Funds CRT Foundation, Marie Curie Initial Training project NETT - Neural Engineering Transformative Technologies, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Italy)

March 18, 2015