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Jobs at Flatiron Institute (CCN) and NYU (Center for Neural Science)

by SueYeon Chung

Dear Colleague, The Neuro-AI and Geometric Data Analysis Lab at NYU and the Flatiron Institute (PI: SueYeon Chung) are seeking postdoc fellows, grad students, and a full-time research assistant. We have multiple positions with flexible start dates. Our lab is situated in the heart of downtown New York City, operating jointly at NYU's Center for Neural Science and the Center for Computational Neuroscience at the Flatiron Institute, a research institution within the Simons Foundation dedicated to computation. The lab is also affiliated with NYU’s Center for Data Science, Minds, Brains and Machines Initiative, CILVR group, and Cognition & Perception Program. Our current research focuses on the following areas, all geared towards analytically and phenomenologically connecting various levels of abstraction and scales in information processing within biological and artificial neural networks: 1. Neural Manifolds as a Population Coding Theory: - Objective: Develop a normative theory of neural population geometry, known as neural manifolds. - Aim: Create an analytical theory that establishes a connection between the structure in high-dimensional neural data and the underlying computational processes. - Toolkits: Statistical physics (*replica method, random matrix theory*), neural network and machine learning (theory & applications), convex optimization, high-dimensional geometry, and statistics. - Applicants with backgrounds in statistical physics, machine learning theory, and theoretical neuroscience are strongly encouraged to apply. 2. Neural Manifolds as a Data Analysis Method: - Objective: Employ the theory and methods of neural manifolds for neural data analysis. - Background: We welcome applicants with backgrounds in neuroscience and cognitive science who are familiar with a wide range of experimental datasets and various model systems. An interest in collaborating with cutting-edge theory subgroups is highly encouraged. 3. Deep Learning Theory for Neuroscience: - Objective: Apply analytical insights from deep learning theory to computational approaches in systems neuroscience. - Toolkits: Statistical physics (replica method, random matrix theory), machine learning theory and applications, high-dimensional statistics. Additionally, we are exploring frontier topics, including the theory of neural manifolds for causality in large language models, the theory of multitasking and cognitive control, and the theory of semantic/categorical hierarchies and knowledge representations. If you are passionate about advancing our understanding of the structure of information in neural systems, we encourage you to apply. We welcome theorists and computational neuroscientists across a range of backgrounds, such as *machine learning* (applications and theory), *theoretical/statistical physics*, *computer science*, *computational and systems neuroscience*, and *cognitive science*. Join us in this exciting journey at the intersection of neuroscience, computation, and theory. If interested, reach out with a CV, a brief description of research interests, and a list of references to sueyeon(a)nyu.edu or schung(a)flatironinstitute.org. (Please note that official job announcements from the Flatiron Institute will be widely circulated in the upcoming weeks, but we are scheduling candidate seminars on a rolling basis.) Best, SueYeon Chung Assistant Professor Center for Neural Science, New York University Center for Computational Neuroscience, Flatiron Institute, Simons Foundation Personal Website: https://sites.google.com/site/sueyeonchung/ Lab Website: http://www.sychunglab.org/

Sept. 26, 2023

YOUNG RESARCHER AWARD @ FRCCS 2024

by Hocine Cherifi

*YOUNG RESARCHER AWARD* <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/young-resarcher-award/> *@ **FRCCS 2024* <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> *Submission deadline: April 24, 2023* The Young Researcher Award is part of CSS FRANCE's <https://www.cssfrance.org/> global initiative to support early career researchers in their quest to advance the frontiers of science across a broad range of disciplines. It is in place to recognize early career contributions and leadership in research in Complex Systems related fields. It is awarded to young researchers up to *five years* after the Ph.D. completion (date of Ph.D. defense) and the deadline of the call for nomination. *Eligibility* - Applications for this award are welcomed by academia, business, and government scientists. - Eligible candidates should not be older than 35 years. - There should be no more than five years between the date of the Ph.D. defense and the deadline of the call for nomination. - Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. - Any young researcher can be nominated in whatever discipline Complex Systems covers. - Candidates must commit to presenting their work at FRCCS if awarded. *Important dates* · Application deadline: *March 04, 2024* · Notification to applicants: *April 02, 2024* *Application Instruction* *For self-nomination* The application package must contain: - A CV of the candidate (maximum two pages) - Research achievement: a letter describing the context and relevance of the achievement, its scientific impact, and why it deserves an award (maximum two pages). - A long-term research project (maximum two pages) *For supporter nomination* - A CV of the candidate (maximum two pages) - Research achievement: a letter describing the context and relevance of the achievement, its scientific impact, and why it deserves an award (maximum two pages). - A statement from the candidate (maximum two pages) reflects their understanding of how the original scientific research moved science forward. *Application Process* Applications are made via a google form: Fill out the self-nomination form <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7JjwOEPF0YYBRHWomS3o-fZ3YXu0a5QU…> or the Supporter nomination form <https://forms.gle/bkVFg9pUvt2f4K1p9> *Note that Google Forms requires you to be signed in to a Google account to upload files and submit your responses. * *Selection Process* FRCCS Award Committee will evaluate all qualified candidates and propose the winner to the Advisory Board of CSS FRANCE, which will make the final decision. *Award Procedure* A prize of 1000 euros is awarded to the winner. The award also covers the registration fee of FRCCS <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> 2024 to facilitate attendance at the conference. The awardee will be recognized and present his (her) work at FRCCS <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> 2024. For more information contact: hocine.cherifi(a)gmail.com Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2023 <https://www.complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/>

Sept. 25, 2023

Bertalanffy Doctoral Student Award

by Hocine Cherifi

*DOCTORAL STUDENT AWARD* <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/doctoral-student-award/> *@ **FRCCS 2024* <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> The Bertalanffy Doctoral Student Award is part of CSS FRANCE's <https://www.cssfrance.org/> global initiative to support early career researchers in their quest to advance the frontiers of science across a broad range of disciplines. It is in place to recognize early career contributions and leadership in research in Complex Systems related fields. It is awarded to young researchers enrolled in a Ph.D. program. This competition consists in presenting your research in simple terms in a five minutes video to a lay audience. Your presentation should be clear, concise, and convincing. *Eligibility* - Eligible candidates must: - Be under 30. - Be enrolled in a Ph.D. program in whatever discipline Complex Systems covers. - Commit to presenting their work at the French Regional Conference on Complex Systems <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> FRCCS <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> if awarded - Accept and authorize the use and distribution of videos and photos related to the competition, including on social networks - Have informed their thesis supervisor of their participation in the competition - Present a sufficiently advanced state of the doctoral research project *Important dates* · Application deadline: *March 04, 2024* · Notification to applicants: *April 02, 2024* *Application Instruction* The application package must contain the following: - A CV of the candidate (maximum two pages) - A summary (maximum two pages) presenting the research work, its context, main contribution, and scientific impact. - A 5 minutes video presentation. *Application Process* Applications are made via a google form on the online portal. <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe49vdpumpzjVJJ7_mWgC5zKSLS1AqelD_…> *Note that Google Forms requires you to be signed in to a Google account to upload files and submit your responses. * *Selection Process* FRCCS Award Committee will evaluate all qualified candidates and propose the winner to the Advisory Board of CSS FRANCE, which will make the final decision. *Award Procedure* A prize of 500 euros is awarded to the winner. The award also covers the registration fee of FRCCS <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> 2024 to facilitate attendance at the conference. The awardee will be recognized and present his (her) work at FRCCS <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> 2024. For more information contact: hocine.cherifi(a)gmail.com Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2023 <https://www.complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/>

Sept. 25, 2023

The full schedule for the fourth Canadian Computational Neuroscience Spotlight is now available

by Scott Rich

Dear Comp-Neuro Listserv, The schedule for the fourth Canadian Computational Neuroscience Spotlight (CCNS), including 40+ talks from trainees, is finalized and available here <https://ccnsmeeting.ca/#04-ccns-2023-program>. Along with these fantastic talks from young scientists, the keynote speakers for the meeting are Drs. Rick Adams, Jeremie Lefebvre, and Sarah Muldoon. The meeting takes place next week, Thursday October 5-Friday October 6. Registration is completely free at https://www.crowdcast.io/c/ccnsv4, and the meeting will be entirely online. Please spread the word to anyone who might be interested in attending! Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the meeting, and we look forward to seeing you there. Sincerely, Scott Rich

Sept. 25, 2023

2-year postdoc position in social neuroscience

by Bischofberger, Jasper

2-year 100% postdoc position in social neuroscience at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) Würzburg, Germany The Translational Social Neuroscience Unit offers a position as a postdoctoral researcher (m/f/x) starting as soon as possible. We study the psychological and neurobiological processes underlying social interactions and decisions. In current studies, we investigate drivers of human social behavior such as empathy, social norms, group membership, and egoism, as well as the social modulation of anxiety and pain processing. We use neuroscientific methods (functional magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography) and psychophysiological measures (heart rate, skin conductance), combined with experimental paradigms from cognitive and social psychology and simulations of social interactions in virtual reality. Using smartphone-based surveys and mobile physiological sensors, we study social interactions in everyday life. As part of the Center of Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, we have access to 3T and 7T fMRI research scanners, TMS, EEG, a Virtual-Reality-Labor (CAVE), and to patients with different psychiatric conditions. We cherish a good working atmosphere and work as a team, but you will also be encouraged to develop and strengthen your own research profile. We seek a candidate with a background in psychology, social neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience or cognitive science with a successfully completed PhD. Ideally; you should have experiences with computational modeling (e.g., reinforcement learning models) and the respective software (e.g. MATLAB/ R programming). Experience with the collection and analysis of empirical date (ideally including neuroscience data) and excellent language skills in English and preferably also in German are required. The research topics are subject to the fits between the candidate’s research interests, expertise, and ongoing projects in the research group, particularly the DFG-funded research project on learning and intergroup processes. Based on personal qualification, employees are remunerated according to salary group E 13 TV-L. The position is initially limited until September 30, 2025 with the option for extension. Please contact Grit Hein (Hein_G(a)ukw.de<mailto:Hein_G@ukw.de>) for questions about the position. The University of Würzburg is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer. Individuals with disabilities will be given priority, assuming equal qualifications, and are thus encouraged to apply. The University of Würzburg seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore also explicitly encourages women to apply. Please send your applications including a motivation letter, research interests, CV (including publications if applicable), degree certificates and names of 2 referees by October 20th 2023 as a single PDF file to Prof. Dr. Grit Hein (Hein_G(a)ukw.de<mailto:Hein_G@ukw.de>) with [postdoc TransSocNeuro] in the subject line. Bitte beachten Sie die Hinweise des Universitätsklinikums Würzburg zu Datenschutz<https://www.ukw.de/recht/datenschutz/>, Vertraulichkeit<https://www.ukw.de/recht/vertraulichkeit/> und Nachhaltigkeit<https://www.ukw.de/klinikumsleitung-und-verwaltung/stabsstelle-nachhaltigke…>!

Sept. 25, 2023

Machine Learning Summer School 2024 in Okinawa: Apply by Sept. 30, 2023

by Kenji Doya

We are pleased to organize the Machine Learning Summer School 2024 at OIST: https://groups.oist.jp/mlss It will be from March 4th to 15th, and yes, we call it summer in Okinawa. The application deadline is September 30, 2023 (UTC). Please apply from here: https://groups.oist.jp/mlss/application Confirmed speakers: Pierre Alquier, ESSEC Marco Cuturi, ENSAE/Apple Kenji Doya, OIST Yu-Chiang Frank Wang, National Taiwan University/ NVIDIA Kenji Fukumizu, ISM Arthur Gretton, UCL Tatsunori Hashimoto, Stanford University Stefanie Jegelka, MIT Gitta Kutyniok, LMU Taiji Suzuki, University of Tokyo/RIKEN AIP Diyi Yang, Stanford University Amy Zhang, UT Austin Han Zhao, UIUC Target Audience: We aim to select 200 highly motivated participants. Our primary target audience consists of master and PhD students with a strong technical background in machine learning related research topics. A limited number of industry practitioners, professors, researchers, outstanding bachelor's students may also be considered. All participants are expected to have knowledge of programming in Python, a keen interest in machine learning, and familiarity with linear algebra, basic calculus, and basic probability and statistics. MLSS2024 organizers: Makoto Yamada (OIST) Masashi Sugiyama (U. of Tokyo / RIKEN AIP) Kenji Doya (OIST) Inquires: mlss2024(a)oist.jp ---- Kenji Doya <doya(a)oist.jp> Neural Computation Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan Phone: +81-98-966-8594; Fax: +81-98-966-2891 https://groups.oist.jp/ncu

Sept. 25, 2023

Gatsby Unit PhD Programme 2024: Applications now open

by I-Chun

4-Year PhD Programme in Theoretical Neuroscience and Machine Learning Deadline: 13 November 2023 The Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit is a leading research centre focused on theoretical neuroscience and machine learning. We study (un)supervised and reinforcement learning in brains and machines; inference, coding and neural dynamics; Bayesian and kernel methods, and deep learning; with applications to the analysis of perceptual processing and cognition, neural data, signal and image processing, machine vision, network data and nonparametric hypothesis testing. The unit provides a unique opportunity for a critical mass of theoreticians to interact closely with one another and with researchers at the Sainsbury WellcomeCentre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour (SWC), the Centre for Computational Statistics and Machine Learning (CSML) and related UCL departments such as Computer Science; Statistical Science; Artificial Intelligence; the ELLIS Unit at UCL; Neuroscience; and the nearby Alan Turing and Francis Crick Institutes. Our PhD programme provides a rigorous preparation for a research career. Students complete a 4-year PhD in either machine learning or theoretical and computational neuroscience, with minor emphasis in the complementary field. Courses in the first year provide a comprehensive introduction to both fields and systems neuroscience. Students are encouraged to work and interact closely with SWC/CSML researchers to take advantage of this uniquely multidisciplinary research environment. Applicants should have a strong analytical and quantitative background, a keen interest in neuroscience, machine learning or both, and a relevant first degree, for example in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Neuroscience or Cognitive Psychology. Full funding is available regardless of nationality. The unit also welcomes applicants who have secured or are seeking funding from other sources. Applications should be submitted directly to us via the online portal. For programme details and how to apply, see www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/study-and-work/phd-programme -- I-Chun Lin, PhD Scientific Programme Manager Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, UCL

Sept. 25, 2023

Postdoc openings in the Savin lab at NYU

by Cristina Savin

Applications are invited for two postdoctoral positions in the Savin group in the Centre for Neural Science and Center for Data Science at NYU. We have several ongoing projects focused on statistical modeling of population responses during complex behavior, with a focus on latent population dynamics, inter-area interactions, and causal interventions. In particular, in the context of a collaboration with the Angelaki lab, we are working on elucidating mechanisms of dynamic updating of beliefs in foraging tasks, using multi-area recordings in VR and freely moving monkeys. In a separate project, funded by the Brain Initiative, we are developing tools for single trial estimation of patterns of gain modulation, in collaboration with the Coen-Cagli group. These are joint endeavors across the pair of lab, with regular joint meetings and group interactions. More broadly, the postdoc will be part of a large and intellectually vibrant community of researchers from the Center for Neuroscience and the Centre for Data Science at NYU. The successful applicant will have a degree in computational neuroscience or machine learning, excellent coding skills (python) and a track record of successful research. Prior experience in neural data analysis, probabilistic machine learning, or open software development are particularly appreciated. Prior experience in neuroscience is welcome, but not strictly required. Finally, since this is a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative project, good communication skills are important. The initial appointment is one year with the expectation of extension contingent on satisfactory progress. Please submit your application to csavin(a)nyu.edu <mailto:csavin@nyu.edu>, including - CV - a statement of research interests - contact details of three people that are familiar with your work We will be evaluating the applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled. I will be at the Bernstein meeting next week and happy to answer questions. Cristina Savin Assist.Prof. in Neural Science and Data Science NYU

Sept. 22, 2023

PhD position - Comp. Neuro. - Navigation using episodic memo

by Vinita Samarasinghe

*Doctoral Position in Computational Neuroscience* Are you curious about how the human brain stores memories? Have you wondered how we manage to navigate through space? Our dynamic research group uses diverse computational modeling approaches,includingbiological neural networks, cognitive modeling, and machine learning/artificial intelligence, to study learning and memory. Currently, we are actively seeking a *talented graduate student* to join our team, someone who will expand our computationalmodeling framework Cobel-RL (https://doi.org/10.3389/fninf.2023.1134405)and use it to study how episodic memory might be used to learn to navigate.* * *If you are interested in this position and are attending the Bernstein Conference please get in touch directly with Sen Cheng at the conference.*** *Your Profile: * Candidates must * have a mastersdegreein neuroscience, physics, computer science, mathematics, psychology,or a related field * be able to work independently * have experience in mathematical modeling * have excellent programming skills, * have excellent communication skills in English, and * work well in a team. We are committed to providing a supportive work environment for female researchers and those with young children. Our university provides mentoring and coaching opportunities specifically aimed at women in research. We have a strong research network with female role models and will provide opportunities to meet with them. Wherever possible, events will be scheduled during regular childcare hours. Special childcare will be arranged if events have to be scheduled outside of regular hours, in case of sickness and during school or daycare closures. Where childcare is not an option parents will be offered a home office solution. The Ruhr University Bochum is home to a vibrant research community in neuroscienceand cognitive science. The Institute for Neural Computation combines different areas of expertise ranging from experimental and theoretical neuroscienceto machine learning androbotics. This position is *65% at TV-L E13*, starts as soon as possible and is funded for *3 years*. Please send your application, including CV, transcripts and research statement electronically, as a single PDF file, to samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de. In addition, at least two academic references mustbe sent independently to the above email address. Deadline remains open until the position is filled. The Ruhr University Bochum is committed to equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. Please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions. -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0) 234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Sept. 22, 2023

6 open rank positions in NeuroInformatics at UIUC

by Vlasov, Yurii A

[cid:e26cf374-d29e-4fc1-9a41-a62369ce0a1c] Strategic Hiring Initiative: Neuroinformatics Cluster Hire The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is announcing a major university-wide Strategic Hiring Initiative to hire six (6) full-time tenure-track faculty positions at all levels (Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Full Professor) in the area of Neuroinformatics that lies at the critical intersection of computational neuroscience, computer science, and information science with a primary focus on understanding the function of the brain in disease and health. This major institutional investment, which spans across the Grainger College of Engineering and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, seeks to expand and complement existing efforts across campus and serve as catalyst to establish UIUC as a center of excellence in understanding the function of the human brain. Additional information on this cluster hire initiative can be found on the website https://publish.illinois.edu/neuro-cluster/ Participating Departments The participating departments are: (1) Computer Science; (2) Electrical and Computer Engineering; (3) Bioengineering; (4) Statistics; (5) Psychology; and (6) Molecular and Integrative Physiology. Areas of Interest We seek applicants with expertise in computer science, biomedical informatics, and computational neuroscience, with primary research interests directed at the development and application of modern artificial intelligence or machine learning analytical tools and techniques for coordinated “big data” analyses of the state-of-the-art neuroscience datasets, such as large-scale electrophysiology, calcium/voltage imaging, multimodal brain imaging, genetic and epigenetic data, and complex behavioral datasets. Eligibility Successful candidates will be part of a large cohort of new faculty contributing to and benefiting from this rich computational systems neuroscience research environment and will have tenure homes in one of the six participating departments. Candidates interested in interactive and trans-disciplinary team research are particularly encouraged to apply. Cross-appointments between different departments are envisioned and encouraged, although each faculty member is expected to have a primary appointment in a single department. Application Instructions To ensure full consideration, candidates should apply to one or more of the six departments. Candidates should include in their application cover letters that they would like to be considered for the cluster hire program, and they should list which other departments they have applied to, if any. For other application materials, candidates should follow the directions in specific position descriptions. Candidates may be contacted if a search committee requires more information. For full consideration, apply by the closing date listed in the specific departmental position descriptions. Early applications are strongly encouraged as interviews may take place during the application periods, but hiring decisions will not be made until after the closing dates. Please contact neuroinformatics(a)illinois.edu with any questions.

Sept. 20, 2023