- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Postdoc on modeling the action potential of a swimming neuron
by Romain Brette Sept. 4, 2019

Sept. 4, 2019

A postdoc position is available in the group of Romain Brette in the Vision Institute, Paris, France, in collaboration with Alexis Prevost and Laetitia Pontani from Laboratoire Jean Perrin, to work on the development of a model of the action potential of Paramecium, a “swimming neuron”. More details here: http://romainbrette.fr/postdoc-offer-modeling-the-action-potential-of-a-swi… Paramecium is a large unicellular eukaryote organism which swims in fresh water using its cilia. When it hits an obstacle, mechanosensitive channels open, depolarize the membrane and trigger a calcium-based action potential. In turn, the action potential triggers a reversal of the swimming direction, followed by a change of direction. This is called the “avoiding reaction”, and it is the basis of most Paramecium behavior. The goal of the global project is to develop an integrative model of Paramecium, that includes: sensory transduction, excitability and motility. In other words, a model of the behaving Paramecium in an environment. The specific project for this postdoc is to develop a Hodgkin-Huxley type model of the action potential of Paramecium, together with a phenomenological model of electro-motor coupling, that is, the relation between membrane potential and cilia beating. Technically, the work will involve performing appropriate electrophysiological measurements and then developing and fitting models. The funding is for 12 months (possibly more depending on grant results). Although this may seem short, the project is already well advanced, as we have developed simple reliable ways to do electrophysiological recordings on Paramecium and already collected a number of recordings. Prior experience in electrophysiological recording is not a requirement as it can be learned. Be aware, however, that the work does involve a fair amount of experimental work (but on a model organism that is simple to handle). Conversely, we are also welcoming applications from electrophysiologists with little experience in modeling. To apply, please send a CV and emails of two references to romain.brette(a)inserm.fr <mailto:romain.brette@inserm.fr>. Do not hesitate to ask for more information. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

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postdoctoral positions in the Rinberg lab at NYU Neuroscience Insititute
by Dmitry Rinberg Sept. 3, 2019

Sept. 3, 2019

The Rinberg lab at NYU Neuroscience Institute (www.rinberglab.com) is seeking to fill multiple postdoctoral positions at the interface of computational systems neuroscience and advanced neurotechnology. We study how olfactory information is represented and processed in neural activity patterns, and how the brain extracts information relevant for behavior. <>We are using wide-field and two-photon imaging, multiunit electrophysiology and behavioral experiments, in combination with theoretical approaches, to study how odors are represented at different stages of neural processing. To understand how spatiotemporal neural codes are read by the brain and evoke behavior, we are developing optogenetic pattern stimulation techniques, including 2P holography. Most of the projects are deeply rooted in theoretical approaches and statistical modeling. In addition, as an applied direction, we are developing bio-electronic nose, a universal, versatile, and sensitive chemical detector based on the mouse olfactory system. The lab has established strong collaborative links with multiple leading labs in theory, statistical methods, technology development, and genetics. <>This is an excellent opportunity for computationally and technologically inclined candidates to find their niche in-between developing cutting edge technologies and applying the technologies to fundamental scientific questions. An ideal candidate should have a background in neuroscience, physics/engineering and math. Knowledge and experience in optics, imaging, multi-neuron physiology and computational methods are a big plus. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, CV to be e-mailed to rinberg(a)nyu.edu

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OPEN FACULTY POSITIONS (Computational neuroscience), RIKEN Center for Brain Science
by Taro Toyoizumi Sept. 3, 2019

Sept. 3, 2019

The RIKEN Center for Brain Science (CBS) was launched in April 2018 following the strong 20-year foundation of its predecessor, the Brain Science Institute (BSI). CBS aims to meet society’s ever-growing expectations for brain research. We are seeking outstanding computational neuroscientists for Team Leader positions (equivalent to U.S. Assistant or Associate Professors). Exceptional applications from internationally established neuroscientists may be considered for indefinite-term Team Leader positions (equivalent to U.S. Full Professors). If candidates have the potential to be outstanding computational researchers, they will be hired as independent Unit Leaders (equivalent to U.S. Assistant Professors), provided that you have a doctoral degree by the date of employment, even if you are still enrolled in a postgraduate doctoral program. Researchers who wish to convert their expertise from other fields (e.g. physics, mathematics, engineering, information science) to computational brain science are also eligible to apply. We will comprehensively evaluate the applicant's scientific achievements and research proposals, etc., and will hire any candidates who match the aims of CBS (please see CBS web page：https://cbs.riken.jp/en/). Since CBS also promotes experimental research, research proposals are expected to aim for collaborative projects in the near future. This is our second round of faculty recruitment at CBS, which follows the successful recruitment of several outstanding candidates as Team Leaders from Japan and abroad in the first round in 2018. [For details, see our home page： https://cbs.riken.jp/en/careers/20190902_w19120_pi_c.html ] Calls for Team Leader positions in other major topics at CBS are currently open to the public (please see https://cbs.riken.jp/career-general/) At RIKEN CBS, research leaders (team and unit leaders) have full intellectual independence, generous internal funds including a highly competitive start-up package and access to ample communal facilities in a collaborative environment. Successful candidates for the Team Leader positions must have demonstrated the ability to develop an original, independent and internationally competitive research program. Applications should be submitted by the end of November 2019. Applicants should specify Team leader or Unit Leader positions, should submit the electronic files of a cover letter with a brief summary of their research program and plan, curriculum vitae, list of research achievements and publications, list of acquired research funding, current research and achievements to date, future research plans, reprints of five major publications maximum, and the names and contact details (e-mail address) of three referees, through the application form. If possible, one of the three referees should be the current supervisor, and the letters should be signed and addressed to Dr. Hiroshi Matsumoto, President of RIKEN. All files and recommendation letters should be written in English. RIKEN CBS is located just outside of the international metropolis of Tokyo. English is the primary language used in activities at CBS, including seminars and administration. Institutional support is available to help non-Japanese speaking scientists, whom we particularly encourage to apply. RIKEN Center for Brain Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. For further inquiries please contact the RIKEN CBS Search Committee. Email: cbs-search(a)ml.riken.jp Search Committee, RIKEN Center for Brain Science 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan Fax: +81-48-462-4914, *Applications are not accepted from this e-mail address.

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PhD opportunities in Computational Neuroscience at Bristol University
by Conor Houghton Sept. 2, 2019

Sept. 2, 2019

The Department of Computer Science in Bristol University is hoping to recruit to a number of EPSRC-funded PhD studentships for a January 2020 start: the research areas considered include Computational Neuroscience and Machine Learning. We have a vibrant Computational Neuroscience group here with strong collaborative links to local groups working in experimental neuroscience, in machine learning and cognitive science. We have interesting project to offer in the areas of synaptic plasticity, neural data analysis, neural coding, reinforcement learning, neurolinguistics, cortical circuit and credit assignment. https://bristolcnu.github.io/research/ Bristol is a great place to live and work and so we urge you to apply or to recommend this opportunity to suitable student. Anyone interested should contact one of us to discuss potential project and their application; there are notes on the application process below; the application would need to be submitted by 1 October 2020. All the best Conor, Cian, Rui and Laurence ___________ Unfortunately these studentships are subject to a UK residency requirement: (https://epsrc.ukri.org/skills/students/help/eligibility/) either home students, or EC nationals who have lived in the UK for three years prior to starting the PhD; if the three years have been spent in higher education, then they have to have been resident in the EEA or Switzerland immediately before this. Students should contact one of us before applying. The selection itself goes through a two step process, students are first accepted as PhD students and are then considered for funding. Applicants should apply via http://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/ and selecting "Computer Science PhD", ensuring they submit a short research proposal outlining the research question or area they intend to focus on and a CV by 1 October.

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Postdoc in neural modeling / optic flow at RPI
by Fajen, Brett Aug. 31, 2019

Aug. 31, 2019

Please post on comp-neuro list… POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE OPTIC FLOW-BASED CONTROL IN HUMANS AND AERIAL ROBOTS Cognitive Science Department Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute A post-doctoral position is available in the Perception and Action (PandA) Lab at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to study optic flow-based control. This is an ONR-funded project aimed at developing computational and mathematical models of visual perception and control in humans that can be adapted for use on board small aerial robots. The successful candidate will be expected to develop computational models, conduct psychophysical experiments, assist with robotic implementation, and present research at conferences and in journal articles. This is a one-year position with an anticipated start date in Fall 2019. The position could be extended beyond one year depending on performance and availability of funding. General information about the PandA Lab can be found at http://panda.cogsci.rpi.edu. The lab is situated within the Cognitive Science Department at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180. Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY is the nation’s oldest technological university, serving over 7,600 undergraduate and graduate students from 49 states and 63 countries. Guided by the Rensselaer Plan 2024, Rensselaer seeks to transform the delivery of pedagogical innovations, and to be a transformative agent in the 21st century and beyond. Minimum qualifications Candidates for the position must have a Ph.D. in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or a closely related field. All degree requirements must be completed by the time the appointment starts. In addition, candidates must have research experience in visual perception, a strong quantitative background, and excellent programming skills. Application information Applicants should submit a cover letter including a brief statement of research interests and accomplishments, current CV, and contact information for three references using the following link: https://rpijobs.rpi.edu/postings/8264. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Questions about the position should be directed to Brett Fajen at fajenb[at]rpi.edu. We welcome candidates who will bring diverse intellectual, geographical, gender and ethnic perspectives to Rensselaer’s work and campus communities. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity, Race/Gender/Veterans/Disability Employer.

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Post-doc position opportunity at Italian Institute of Technology
by Gabriella Panuccio Aug. 30, 2019

Aug. 30, 2019

All, There is an open opportunity for a post-doc position in my lab at IIT. We are looking for an in vitro electrophysiologist with expertise in epilepsy models and brain slices for biohybrid experiments. The position is open within the context of the EU-funded FET Proactive project HERMES - Hybrid Enhanced Regenerative Medicine Systems (www.hermes-fet.eu<http://www.hermes-fet.eu/>). You may find the description and instructions to apply here: https://iit.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=1900000Q Deadline for application is September 15th. You may contact me directly for any informal inquiry. Please circulate this email to those you think might be interested. Thank you! Gabriella ________________________________ Gabriella Panuccio, MD, PhD Enhanced Regenerative Medicine Dept. Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego, 30 16163 Genova - Italy email: gabriella.panuccio(a)iit.it<mailto:gabriella.panuccio@iit.it> office: +39 010 28 96 ext 493 mobile: +39 333 491 32 31 website url: www.hermes-fet.eu<about:blank> Twitter: @GabryPanu<https://twitter.com/GabryPanu> // @HERMES_FET<https://twitter.com/HERMES_FET>

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Assistant Professor position available in Cognitive Sciences at the University of California, Irvine
by Jeff Krichmar Aug. 29, 2019

Aug. 29, 2019

Dear Colleagues, The Department of Cognitive Sciences at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) invites applications for an assistant professor (tenure-track) position with an expected start date of July 1, 2020. We are seeking scientists who study learning, memory, decision making, and related topics with behavioral, developmental, computational, artificial intelligence, or neuroimaging methods. Of particular interest are cognitive scientists who combine an empirical research program with innovative quantitative analysis or computational modeling. The successful candidates will interact with a dynamic and growing community in cognitive, computational, and neural sciences within the department (http://www.cogsci.uci.edu/) and the broader campus. Interested candidates can find specific application requirements and the online application at: https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/JPF05668. To ensure full consideration, applications must be completed by December 1, 2019. The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy. As a recipient of an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity, UCI understands the needs of dual career couples, supports work-life balance through an array of family-friendly policies, and is dedicated to broadening participation in higher education. As a Minority Serving Institution, UCI seeks future faculty who will contribute to our enduring commitment to inclusive excellence and serve as role models. Best regards, Jeff Krichmar Department of Cognitive Sciences 2328 Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA 92697-5100 jkrichma(a)uci.edu http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~jkrichma

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Tenure Track Faculty Positions in Biomathematics
by Cheng Ly Aug. 29, 2019

Aug. 29, 2019

Assistant Professor of Mathematics Position: Two faculty positions (9-month) as Assistant Professors of Mathematics to join the vibrant biomathematics group in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Virginia Commonwealth University beginning August 16, 2020. The Department and University web pages may be found at http://www.math.vcu.edu and http://www.vcu.edu. The Ph.D. program web page may be found at http://www.sysm.vcu.edu. Responsibilities of Position: Maintain a vigorous research program and a record of excellent teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Mathematics, or related field, is required at the time of the appointment. We are seeking candidates with a clearly defined research agenda and expertise in biomathematics research with an emphasis in one or more of the following fields: stochastic, computational, or multi-scale modeling, complex networks and/or systems, uncertainty quantification, and parameter identification. Preference will also be given to candidates with postdoctoral experience, and a demonstrated potential to secure external funding. Applicants must have a record of successful teaching, as well as experience with working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment, or the commitment to do so. The Department: The mission of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics is to offer a strong undergraduate and graduate education, with an increasing focus on the development of cross-disciplinary efforts that will prepare our students for real-world applications and stimulating employment and career opportunities. Key current objectives of the department include the continued development of our Ph.D. program, which emphasizes applications of mathematics to the medical and biological sciences and research in both applied mathematics and theoretical discrete mathematics, the improvement of student outcomes in our lower level courses, the continued strengthening of our department's track in secondary education preparation and mathematics education outreach initiatives. We seek ambitious faculty members to help grow and strengthen the department by expanding teaching, research, and grant activity. How to Apply for the Position: To apply, candidates should submit electronically (https://www.vcujobs.com/postings/92989) the following: a cover letter that delineates how they meet the qualifications outlined above, a current curriculum vitae, contact information for each of the four references. In addition, candidates need to submit electronically ( https://www.mathjobs.org/ <https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/14339>) the following: a cover letter, an AMS Standard Cover Sheet, a current curriculum vitae, and detailed statements about teaching and their current research activities. Applicants also should include four letters of recommendation. One of the letters of recommendation must address the applicant's effectiveness as a teacher. Letters should be submitted electronically through www.mathjobs.org <https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/14339>. Applicants must be eligible to work in the U.S.A. The deadline for applications is October 25, 2019. "Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity. Affirmative Action University providing access to education and employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, veterans status, political affiliation or disability." Cheng Ly https://www.people.vcu.edu/~cly Associate Professor Department of Statistical Sciences and Operations Research Virginia Commonwealth University P.O. Box 843083 Richmond, Virginia 23284-3083

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LASCON 2020 - VIII Latin American School on Computational Neuroscience (Call for applications)
by Antonio Roque Aug. 28, 2019

Aug. 28, 2019

**** Apologies for cross-posting **** VIII Latin American School on Computational Neuroscience - LASCON 2020 January 6-31, 2020, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil www.sisne.org/lascon LASCON Video <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10FDmMw2IbM> APPLICATION DEADLINE: October 5, 2019 Dear Colleagues, Following the success of the previous editions of LASCON (Latin American School on Computational Neuroscience), I am pleased to announce the 8th LASCON, which will take place January 6-31, 2020 at the NeuroMat Center in the University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil. LASCON aims at introducing young researchers and graduate and advanced undergraduate students to the use of computational and mathematical methods for modeling neurons and neural networks. The following topics will be covered: biophysically detailed single neuron models; reduced and simplified single neuron models; networks of biophysical and simplified neuron models; synaptic plasticity and learning; spike train analysis; statistical methods in neuroscience; models of extracellular fields; modeling of brain stimulation; predictive coding; dynamics of neuronal functional connectivity; and computational psychiatry. These subjects will be illustrated with the use of programs NEURON, neuroConstruct, XPP-AUTO, Matlab, NEST, Brian and the Virtual Brain. Students will have to work on small research projects (to be done in groups of two), which they will present orally at the end of the school. The following lecturers will be in charge of theoretical classes and tutorials: Aline Duarte, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Antonio Galves,University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Arnd Roth, University College, London, UK Christophe Pouzat, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France Demian Battaglia, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France Eli Shlizerman, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA Emilio Kropf, Leloir Institute Foundation, Buenos Aires, Argentina Gaute Einevoll, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, As, Norway German Mato, Bariloche Atomic Center, San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina Horacio Rotstein, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA John Murray, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA Marcelo Reyes, Federal University of ABC, Sao Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil Mauricio Girardi-Schappo, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil Mauro Copelli, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil Renan Shimoura, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil Risto Ilmoniemi, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland Rodrigo Cofre, University of Valparaiso, Valparaiso, Chile Sacha van Albada, Juelich Research Center, Juelich, Germany Salvador Durá-Bernal, State University of New York, New York, NY, USA Volker Steuber, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK William Lytton, State University of New York, New York, NY, USA The number of students is limited to 20 and applications should be made electronically via the application form in the school's web page ( www.sisne.org/lascon) Applicants are also requested to submit a detailed CV (in English) and to provide two letters of recommendation. The application deadline is October 5, 2019 (until midnight, US Pacific time). There is no registration fee for the school. Costs for accommodation will be covered by the school organization. Travel costs have to be covered by the students. Sao Paulo is the major transportation hub in South America, so it is possible to fly from basically anywhere in the world to its airports. In the selection procedure, priority will be given to Latin-American students, but students from other parts of the world are encouraged to apply as well. LASCON 2020 is an activity of the FAPESP Center for Neuromathematics (NeuroMat - http://neuromat.numec.prp.usp.br/) I am looking forward to see you in Sao Paulo. Best regards, Antonio Roque LASCON Director -- Dr. Antonio C. Roque Professor Associado Departamento de Fisica FFCLRP, Universidade de Sao Paulo 14040-901 Ribeirao Preto-SP Brazil - Brasil E-mails: antonior(a)usp.br <antonior(a)ffclrp.usp.br> aroquesilva(a)gmail.com URL: www.sisne.org Tels: +55 16 3315-3768 <+55%2016%203315-3768> (sala/office); +55 16 3315-3859 <+55%2016%203315-3859> (lab) FAX: +55 16 3315-4887 <+55%2016%203315-4887>

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3 year Research Fellow in Bio-Inspired Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at the University of Sussex
by Thomas Nowotny Aug. 28, 2019

Aug. 28, 2019

Dear all, Research Fellow in Bio-Inspired Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at the University of Sussex Are you a talented and ambitious computer scientist, computational neuroscientist or machine learner? Are you looking for an opportunity to use cutting edge technology to gain new understanding of how small-brained insects learn so rapidly and robustly, and in turn develop novel active AI algorithms that are inspired by these insights? We have an opportunity for a Research Fellow to join the Brains on Board<http://brainsonboard.co.uk/> team at the Department of Informatics at the University of Sussex to join a collaboration with the University of Sheffield and world-leading neuroscientists in Australia through the EPSRC-funded ActiveAI project: active learning and selective attention for rapid, robust and efficient AI. You will develop a new class of ActiveAI controllers for problems in which insects excel but deep learning methods struggle. These problems have one or more of the following characteristics: (i) learning must occur rapidly, (ii) learning samples are few or costly, (iii) computational resources are limited, and (iv) the problem changes over time. Insects deal with such complex tasks robustly despite limited computational power because learning is an active process emerging from the interaction of evolved brains, bodies and behaviours. Through a virtuous cycle of modelling and experiments, you will develop insect-inspired models, in which behavioural strategies and specialised sensors actively structure sensory input while selective attention drives learning to the most salient information. This will be achieved through extended visits to Australia, in which you will interact with biologists and shape novel insect experiments that in turn will inspire computational and robotic models and novel algorithms. In this way, we will both advance neuroscience and enable ActiveAI solutions which will be efficient in final network configuration, robust to real-world conditions and learn rapidly. This project includes significant scope for you to creatively shape and drive the project to your interests and to organise the timing and length of your visits to Australia. You will work under the supervision of Professors Andrew Philippides, Thomas Nowotny and Paul Graham at Sussex as well as the wider Brains on Board team and, together with a partner research fellow at Sheffield University, you will lead a new collaboration with world-leading Australian research partners through extended secondments. Closing date: midnight UK BST, 23 September 2019. For full details see: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/about/jobs/rf-artifical-intellience-robotics-2091 -- Prof Thomas Nowotny Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange School of Engineering and Informatics University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ, UK Phone: +441273678593 FAX: +441273877873

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