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PhD positions in Math Biology & Computational Neuroscience at NJIT
by Victor Matveev Nov. 9, 2021

Nov. 9, 2021

Dear all, The Department of Mathematical Sciences at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) invites candidates to apply for one of our doctoral program tracks: (1) Applied Mathematics or (2) Applied Probability & Statistics. The Department's research focus spans Mathematical Biology and Computational Neuroscience, Scientific Computing, Fluid Dynamics, Materials Science, Wave Propagation, Applied Analysis, and Applied Probability and Statistics, including Biostatistics and Data Science. We offer teaching and research assistantships, which include a tuition waiver, a competitive stipend starting at $25,000 per academic year and, pending funding availability, at least $3,500 in summer support. The application target date is December 15, 2021, but review will be ongoing until all available positions are filled. New Jersey Institute of Technology is a "Research I" University by Carnegie Classification, with a campus in the city of Newark. NJIT is conveniently located in close vicinity to many other centers of research in mathematical biology and neuroscience, across the street from Rutgers-Newark, and within about 40 min of New York City by public transportation. To apply, go to: https://www.njit.edu/graduatestudies/department-mathematical-sciences/ For more information, please email us (math(a)njit.edu, CC to: shahriar.afkhami(a)njit.edu) Program flyer is posted here: https://web.njit.edu/~matveev/NJIT_DMS_PhD_flyer.pdf Sincerely --Victor Matveev (on behalf of the Admissions Committee ) -- _____________________________________________ Victor Matveev, Professor Applied Math, Biophysics, Neuroscience Department of Mathematical Sciences Graduate Faculty, Dept of Biological Sciences New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark, NJ 07102-1982 Office: Cullimore Hall 616 E-mail:matveev@njit.edu http://web.njit.edu/~matveev/

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Announcing DENDRITES 2022
by Yiota Poirazi Nov. 8, 2021

Nov. 8, 2021

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that after the cancellation of our 2020 meeting because of the covid-19 pandemic, DENDRITES 2022 will take place in Heraklion, Crete on 23-26 May 2022. This is the 4th of a very successful series of meetings on the island of Crete that is dedicated to dendrites. The meeting will bring together scientific leaders from around the globe to present their theoretical and experimental work on dendrites. The meeting program is designed to facilitate discussions of new ideas and discoveries, in a relaxed atmosphere that emphasizes interaction. DENDRITES 2022 EMBO Workshop on Dendritic Anatomy, Molecules and Function Heraklion, Crete, Greece 23-26 May 2022 http://meetings.embo.org/event/20-dendrites *Organizing committee:* Yiota Poirazi, IMBB-FORTH, GR Kristen Harris, University of Texas-Austin, US Michael Häusser, University College London, GB Matthew Larkum, Humboldt University of Berlin, DE *Registration and abstract submission will open soon at:* http://meetings.embo.org/event/20-dendrites Submissions of abstracts are due by *February 1st, **2022.* Notifications will be provided by February 28th, 2022. Potential attendees are strongly encouraged to submit an abstract as presenters will have registration priority. For more information about the conference, please refer to our web site or send email to info(a)mitos.com.gr We look forward to seeing you at DENDRITES 2022! on behalf of the organizers, Yiota Poirazi -- Panayiota Poirazi, Ph.D. Research Director Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) Vassilika Vouton, P.O.Box 1385, GR 70013, Heraklion, Crete GREECE Tel: +30 2810 391139 Fax: +30 2810 391101 Εmail: poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr Lab site: www.dendrites.gr

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hybrid IEEE WIE ILS on December 2nd and 3rd, 2021
by Marianna Semprini Nov. 8, 2021

Nov. 8, 2021

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the IEEE Women in Engineering International Leadership Summit as a hybrid event to be held on December 2nd and 3rd, 2021 both online and in person in Genova, Italy (limited seats available, green pass required). Information and registration form can be found here: https://wieils-italy.eu/ The IEEE WIE ILS is an internationally acclaimed program of IEEE Women in Engineering, which is one of the world's largest technical communities working towards shaping the scenario of underrepresentation of Women in Engineering and Technology. IEEE WIE ILS started in 2015 was organized in Chennai with the theme "Beyond Yourself - Leveraging your strengths and breaking barriers". The summit drew more than 200 participants which paved the way for more such summits all over the globe. Now every year ten such summits are organized across the globe. In 2020 we were selected to host an ILS event for the first time in Italy. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 ILS was only virtual (see the "past editions" tab). This year we are going to have a hybrid event with participation both online and in-person! We have planned sessions on empowering, entrepreneurship, mentoring, and also parenting! The event is open to anyone, especially to women and minorities in the STEM area. Join us (either in person or online) for two days of panel discussions, keynote presentations, round table discussions, and networking! Marianna Semprini, PhD (she/her) Rehab Technologies Lab Phone : 010 71781 212 ISTITUTO ITALIANO DI TECNOLOGIA Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova Site: www.iit.it

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Theoretical Sciences Visiting Program 2022 at OIST (Application by Nov. 30, 2021)
by Kenji Doya Nov. 7, 2021

Nov. 7, 2021

We are pleased to call for Long-Term Visiting Scholars in Theoretical Sciences at OIST as below. **** As part of an initiative to develop a vibrant program in theoretical sciences, OIST invites applications for Visiting Scholars in the Theoretical Sciences. The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is a research institution with a Ph.D. program. Outstanding graduate students and faculty are being attracted internationally. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and be independent researchers, i.e., should have an academic standing equivalent to senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member at a research-intensive institution. The position has a flexible term of 2 to 12 months taken continuously starting between April 2022 and March 2023 with a preference for longer-term visitors. Visitors through this program are encouraged to collaborate with one or more research units in OIST during their stay. The appointment may be taken while on leave or sabbatical from another university and comes with housing, research funds, and moving allowance. This program can provide a per diem as per OIST rules. In exceptional situations where the applicant does not receive any salary from grants or their institution at the time of their visit to OIST, successful candidates may be able to apply for support with salary, where this is necessary to facilitate the visit, and they can provide evidence of their need. No teaching duties come with the position. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to give a short series of lectures to students and researchers in the OIST community on a topic of their choosing, and we ask that they include details of this in their cover letter. OIST is an institution with no departments, aiming to eliminate barriers between people working in different fields. It provides a family-friendly working environment including the multilingual Child Development Center and has proactive policies designed to promote a culture of diversity. OIST is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator, and employer. Further details can be found at https://www.oist.jp/. Qualifications Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and be independent researchers, i.e., should have an academic standing equivalent to senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member at a research-intensive institution. Application Instructions To apply, please go to our Interfolio page: https://apply.interfolio.com/96304 Applicants should submit a CV including a list of publications (limit 10 pages), and provide a brief description of their research to date and proposed research while visiting OIST (limit 2 pages). In your proposal, please explicitly mention OIST units you wish to collaborate with, and include your intended start date and length of stay in your proposal (date range is acceptable). All visits are subject to the availability of funding. To be considered for this year’s funding the applicant’s intended stay should start no later than March 2023. Applications received by November 30th 2021, are guaranteed full consideration. If you have any questions, please contact the Faculty Affairs Office at tsvp(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

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Two Data Scientist positions in Marburg, Germany
by Dominik Endres Nov. 5, 2021

Nov. 5, 2021

We are offering *two Data Scientist*(m/f/d) positions as a part of the cluster project *The Adaptive Mind*at the Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany. The positions are associated with the Center of Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB) in Marburg. If you are interested in high-performance computing, machine learning and data management for large, interdisciplinary projects, then one of these jobs might be for you. Please contact Prof. Dominik Endres, dominik.endres(a)uni-marburg.de <mailto:dominik.endres@uni-marburg.de>, for more information. The full job adverts can be found here: https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern… <https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern…> https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern… <https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern…> Application deadline is Nov. 26^th , 2021 regards, Dominik Endres -- Prof. Dr. Dominik Endres Theoretische Kognitionswissenschaft - Theoretical Cognitive Science FB 04 Psychologie Tel: 06421-28 23818

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Flatiron Research Fellows (Post-Docs), Center for Computational Neuroscience, Flatiron Institute
by Matthew Turner Nov. 4, 2021

Nov. 4, 2021

Flatiron Research Fellows (Post-Docs), Center for Computational Neuroscience <https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-neurosci…>, Flatiron Institute New York, New York ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW The Simons Foundation is a private foundation established in 1994 in New York City. With assets of approximately $2 billion and an annual grants and programs budget of $230 million, the foundation is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences. The Flatiron Institute is a major, new internal scientific unit of the Simons Foundation, focused on the computational aspects of a wide range of basic science. The mission of the Flatiron Institute is to advance scientific research through computational methods, including theory, modeling, simulation and data analysis. The Flatiron Institute currently consists of five centers: the Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA); the Center for Computational Biology (CCB); the Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ); the Center for Computational Mathematics (CCM); and the Center for Computational Neuroscience (CCN). The Institute staff is composed of research scientists at various stages of their careers from recent Ph.D.s through senior scientists, software engineers and support staff. We host a vigorous visitor program and interact regularly with scientists from neighboring institutions. POSITION SUMMARY Applications are invited for Flatiron Research Fellowships (FRF) at the Center for Computational Neuroscience. The CCN FRF program offers the opportunity for postdoctoral research in areas that have strong synergy with one or more of the existing research groups at CCN or other centers at the Flatiron Institute. CCN FRF’s will be assigned a primary mentor from a CCN research group or project, though affiliations and collaborations with other research groups within CCN and throughout the Flatiron Institute are encouraged. In addition to carrying out an independent research program, Flatiron Research Fellows are expected to: disseminate their results through scientific presentations, publications, and software release, collaborate with other members of the CCN or Flatiron Institute, and participate in the scientific life of the CCN and Flatiron Institute by attending seminars, colloquia, and group meetings. Flatiron Research Fellows may have the opportunity to organize workshops and to mentor graduate and undergraduate students. The mission of CCN is to develop theories, models, and computational methods that deepen our knowledge of brain function — both in health and in disease. CCN takes a “systems" neuroscience approach, building models that are motivated by fundamental principles, that are constrained by properties of neural circuits and responses, and that provide insights into perception, cognition and behavior. This cross-disciplinary approach not only leads to the design of new model-driven scientific experiments, but also encapsulates current functional descriptions of the brain that can spur the development of new engineered computational systems, especially in the realm of machine learning. CCN currently has research groups in computational vision, neural circuits and algorithms, neuroAI and geometry, and statistical analysis of neural data; interested candidates should review the CCN public website <https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-neurosci…> for specific information on CCN’s research areas. Review of applications for positions starting between July and October 2022 will begin in mid-January 2022. Application Materials: - Cover letter (optional); - Curriculum Vitae with bibliography; - Research statement of no more than three pages describing past work and proposed research program. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the broad impact of the past and proposed research on computational neuroscience. Applicants should also indicate the primary CCN group(s) with which they’d seek to conduct research, and any desired affiliation with other Flatiron Centers. - Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by direct email to ccnjobs(a)simonsfoundation.org Selection Criteria: Applicants must have a PhD in a related field or expect to receive their PhD before the start of the appointment. Applications will be evaluated based on 1) past research accomplishments 2) proposed research program 3) synergy of applicant’s expertise and research proposal topic with existing CCN staff and research programs. Education: - PhD in computational neuroscience or a relevant technical field such as electrical engineering, machine learning, statistics, physics, or applied math. Related Skills: - Flexible multi-disciplinary mindset; - Strong interest and experience in the scientific study of the brain; - Demonstrated abilities in analysis, software and algorithm development, modeling and/or scientific simulation; - Ability to do original and outstanding research in neuroscience; - Ability to work well independently as well as in a collaborative team environment. FRF positions are two-year appointments and are generally renewed for a third year, contingent on performance. FRF receive a research budget and have access to the Flatiron Institute’s powerful scientific computing resources. FRF may be eligible for subsidized housing within walking distance of the CCN. THE SIMONS FOUNDATION'S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law. Application portal: https://simonsfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/simonsfoundationcareer… Matthew B. Turner Manager for Center Administration | Center for Computational Neuroscience Pronouns: he/him/his *FLATIRON INSTITUTE* 162 Fifth Avenue Suite 308 New York, NY 10010 917.363.1095 *mobile* *simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/ <http://simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/>*

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Postdoc Fellowship in Data Science in Göttingen, Germany
by Ecker, Alexander Nov. 4, 2021

Nov. 4, 2021

The Campus Institute Data Science (CIDAS) at the University of Göttingen invites applications for two fellowships for outstanding young scientists to implement their own innovative research agenda in the field of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. CIDAS promotes campus-wide interdisciplinary exchange and activities in the field of data science. The application deadline is Sunday, November 14th, 2021. In case of questions contact Alexander Ecker: ecker(a)cs.uni-goettingen.de *Funding Objectives:* CIDAS would like to support young scientists at an early stage of their career to develop independent projects and to create a perspective to work independently for several years at the Göttingen Campus in the field of Data Science. In particular, the collaboration between methodological, theoretical researchers and applied scientists at the Göttingen Campus and within CIDAS should be promoted. The applications should show a career perspective for the applicants and open a path to scientific independence and own third-party funding. *Who can apply:* Outstanding young scientists who are in the final phase of their PhD (last year) or early postdoc phase (maximum 2 years after the PhD) with an idea for their own research project in the field of Data Science. This can be in the fundamentals of Data Science, applied Data Science, or in the social science aspects of Data Science. This requires a planned collaboration with at least one member of CIDAS. Other collaborations with groups outside CIDAS are also possible and encouraged. If the applicant is not already a CIDAS member, he/she will be accepted into CIDAS upon approval of the application. The position can be used in particular for preparatory work for a subsequent application, e.g. for a junior research group. *Scope of funding:* Two fellowships will be awarded. The funding includes €75,000 each, which can be used, for example, to finance the applicant's own position. *Documents to be submitted:* 1. Description of the research idea (max. 5 pages), incl.: - Clearly defined content-related goals, comprehensible time schedule - Possible perspectives after the project, career perspectives, possibly plan for external funding - Planned collaboration with CIDAS members and other scientists - Innovation of the application 2. Curriculum vitae 3. Letter of recommendation from the supervisor or mentor, including a workplace (incl. infrastructure) commitment for the period to be funded Deadline: Sunday, November 14th, 2021 Application by email to: cidas(a)uni-goettingen.de -- Alexander Ecker Professor of Data Science Department of Computer Science • Campus Institute Data Science University of Göttingen • Max Planck Inst. for Dynamics and Self-Organization Goldschmidtstr. 1 • room 2.137 • 37077 Göttingen https://eckerlab.org • @alxecker • +49 551 39-21272

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PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt
by Claudius Gros Nov. 4, 2021

Nov. 4, 2021

PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany Fields: neurosciences, complex systems theory Application deadline: Dec 15, 2021 Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros We are developing new models and generative principles for complex systems, using a range of toolsets from dynamical systems theory, game theory, and the neurosciences. Examples are self-generated gaits for animals and robotic systems, criticality in autonomous networks, as well as Covid-19 modeling. Several subjects are available for the announced PhD thesis, depending on the background of the successful candidate. The work will include analytical investigations and numerical simulations. The candidates should have a Diploma/Master in physics with an excellent academic track record and good computational skills. Experience or strong interest in the fields of complex systems, dynamical systems theory, game theory and/or artificial or biological cognitive systems is expected. The degree of scientific research experience is expected to be on the level of a German Diploma/Master. The appointment will start in spring 2022, for three years. Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and a list of publications to the address below. Prof. Claudius Gros Institute for Theoretical Physics Goethe University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 1 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany cgr(a)itp.uni-frankfurt.de http://www.itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros General information on the University of Frankfurt and its employment policy: With its around 46,000 students and 4,600 employees, the Goethe University in Frankfurt is the largest university in the state of Hessen and an internationally renowned, important regional employer. Numerous quality and performance oriented internal reforms have been initiated in the recent years. The reorganized campuses for natural sciences and humanities offer an ideal environment for research and education. Since 2008, the Goethe University is a foundation under public law and enjoys full administrative autonomy.  The fixed-term employment of the academic staff is subject to the provisions of the Temporary Science Employment Law and the Hessian Higher Education Act. The University advocates gender equality and therefore strongly encourages women to apply. People with disabilities are given preference if equally qualified. -- ### ### Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros ### http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros ### ### Complex and Adaptive Dynamical Systems, A Primer ### A graduate-level textbook, Springer (2008/10/13/15) ### ### Life for barren exoplanets: The Genesis project ### https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10509-016-2911-0 ###

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Faculty position in Data Science and Neuroengineering at Boston University
by Laura Lewis Nov. 3, 2021

Nov. 3, 2021

Dear colleagues, Forwarding the ad for our department's open position for an Assistant Professor: The College of Engineering at Boston University has embarked on a bold new strategic plan that will pursue excellence and impact along convergent and collaborative research themes while remaining committed to our institutional values regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. The College anticipates two openings for tenure-track faculty positions at the level of Assistant Professor, one focusing on the convergent theme: Data Science in Neuroengineering. We are seeking a candidate whose research develops or uses methods from data science to advance knowledge of neuroscience in health and disease. Topics may include computational neuroscience, neurosignal processing, machine learning, image processing, artificial intelligence, or, more broadly, data science techniques in neuroscience. The ideal candidate will have a strong publication record in this convergent research theme and will be able to form links among the neuro- and systems-engineering strengths of the College’s Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering, as well as the University’s strengths in the Data- and Neuro-Sciences. To apply: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/19046

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Postdoctoral position to study circuit mechanisms of adaptive learning at Dartmouth College
by Alireza Soltani Nov. 3, 2021

Nov. 3, 2021

The Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab (CCNL) at Dartmouth College has an opening for an NIH-funded postdoctoral position to work on an exciting project on circuit mechanisms of reward-based learning under uncertainty. The project involves computational modeling and data analyses (behavioral and calcium imaging) in close collaboration with Alicia Izquierdo's lab at UCLA. Initial appointment is for one year with opportunity for renewal. The position is open to start immediately, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. A few recent relevant papers include: 1. Soltani A, Izquierdo A (2019). Adaptive Learning under Expected and Unexpected Uncertainty. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 20(10): 635–644 2. Farashahi S, Donahue C, Hayden B, Lee D, Soltani A (2019). Flexible Combination of Reward Information across Primates. Nature Human Behaviour, 3: 1215–1224 3. Stolyarova A, Rakhshan M, Peters MA, Lau H, Soltani A, Izquierdo A (2019). Contributions of Anterior Cingulate Cortex and Basolateral Amygdala in Decision Confidence and Learning under Uncertainty. Nature Communications, 10:4704 4. Spitmaan MM, Seo H, Lee D, Soltani A (2020). Multiple Timescales of Neural Dynamics and Integration of Task-relevant Signals across Cortex. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 117 (36), 22522-22531 5. Trepka E, Spitmaan MM, Bari BA, Costa VD, Cohen JY, Soltani A (2021). Novel entropy-based metrics for predicting choice behavior based on local response to reward. Nature Communications (Accepted) [available on bioRxiv, 2021.05.20.445009v1] For more recent publications from the lab please visit http://ccnl.dartmouth.edu. Interested individuals should contact Alireza Soltani (soltani(a)dartmouth.edu) with their CV. Alireza Soltani, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Dartmouth College, NH Alireza.Soltani(a)Dartmouth.edu http://ccnl.dartmouth.edu Phone: 603-646-2998 Office: Moore 356

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BCI Un-Conference: Submission open
by Anja Meunier Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 2, 2021

Dear colleagues, registration and abstract submission for the 3rd BCI Un-Conference is now open [1]. Abstract submissions are text-only. The length and format of the submissions are up to the authors - use whatever format you consider best for attracting up-votes! Important dates: - Submission deadline: December 3rd, 2021 at 11:59 pm (CET) - Voting period: December 6th, 2021 - December 12th, 2021 at 11:59 pm (CET) - BCI-UC event: January 27th, 2022, from 03:00 pm to 09:00 pm (CET) We will invite the authors of the top-voted abstracts to present at the un-conference. The 3rd BCI-UC will feature keynotes by Cynthia Chestek (University of Michigan) [2] and Thorsten Zander (TU Brandenburg) [3]. BCI-UC is an online un-conference that provides rapid dissemination of novel research results in the BCI community. Participants can submit abstracts to apply for 20 minutes presentation slots. Abstracts are not reviewed by a program committee. Rather, all registered participants can vote on which of the submitted abstracts they would like to see presented at the un-conference. Because the BCI-UC does not publish conference proceedings, submitted abstracts can report novel as well as already published work. Registration and attendance are free of charge. Presentations of the 1st and 2nd BCI-UC can be re-watched at [4] and [5]. All presentations will be streamed via Crowdcast [6] and can be accessed free of charge. Join us in supporting this novel community-driven dissemination of research results! The BCI-UC committee: Moritz Grosse-Wentrup Anja Meunier Philipp Raggam Jiachen Xu Links: [1] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/register-vote/ [2] https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=36sxAZEAAAAJ&hl=de [3] https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=0E49HxYAAAAJ [4] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/1st-bci-uc/ [5] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/2nd-bci-uc/ [6] https://www.crowdcast.io/

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Postdoc position in Computational and Systems Neuroscience at Research Center Jülich, Germany
by Martina Reske Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 2, 2021

The working group Statistical Neuroscience at INM-6 Computational and Systems Neuroscience<https://www.fz-juelich.de/inm/inm-6/EN/Home/home_node_INM6.html> at Research Center Juelich, Germany, led by Sonja Grün<https://www.fz-juelich.de/SharedDocs/Personen/INM/INM-6/EN/staff/Gruen_Sonj…> develops statistical methods for the analysis of experimental electrophysiological data from massively parallel electrophysiological recordings and leads the development of open source software tools for the analysis of activity data and validation of models on the population level. The department aims to fill a postdoctoral position that is responsible for the analysis of massively parallel spike and LFP data acquired in a collaborative project with CNRS-AMU, Marseille. Your Job: • Analysis of massively parallel spike and LFP data from the Vision for Action project (visuo-motor integration across areas) • Adaptation of machine learning algorithms and/or further development of methods for the analysis of these neuronal multichannel data • Development of methods for quantifying the relationship between spike patterns and LFP/ECoG data • Optimization and adaptation of neuronal network model in NEST for the comparison of experimental and simulated activity data • Implementation of data analysis tools in Python and integration of the codes into the shared analysis library Elephant • Contribution to the data analysis pipeline, under FAIR principles • Cooperation with experimental collaboration partners • Integration of the work into Ebrains / HBP • Presentation of project results at international conferences • Scientific and administrative project coordination • Support in the supervision of PhD students Your Profile: • MSc in physics, data science, mathematics or computer science; PhD in computational neuroscience, applied mathematics, physics or related • Detailed knowledge of neuroscientific concepts, especially in neuronal dynamics, statistical analysis of neuronal activity and dynamics • Expertise in network modelling at different spatial levels • Experience with large-scale data-science activities and scientific programming, especially Python • Fluent in spoken and written English • Experience in scientific publishing in a related field • Proactive working style, confident appearance and communication skills, high social competence and ability to work cooperatively in a team The position is initially for a fixed term of 2 Jahre years. Salary and benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD, salary grade 13-14). FZ Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. Please apply via our recruitment system<https://www.fz-juelich.de/portal/EN/Careers/application/_node.html?cms_hre_…> under reference number: 2021-323. Martina Reske -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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The Gatsby Unit PhD programme
by Maneesh Sahani Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 2, 2021

Applications for the 2022 PhD Programme in theoretical neuroscience or machine learning at the Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit are currently open. Please send us your application by 14th November 2021 following the link on this page: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/study-and-work/phd-programme/applications The Gatsby Unit is a research centre at University College London focusing on theoretical and computational neuroscience, computational statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence; threads that are drawn together by our focus on the mathematical foundations of adaptive intelligent behaviour. We specialize in research and research training: We have a PhD programme and postdoctoral trainees, but no undergraduate or MSc programme. Our PhD programme provides a rigorous preparation for a research career. Although each student eventually chooses an advisor, the programme is highly interactive, and the Unit functions more like a single large research group loosely divided into subgroups than a regular university department. Many leading researchers in both machine learning and neuroscience have studied or worked here. Overall, about 2/3 of our alumni are in academia, many of them faculty members at the world's leading universities; others have founded companies (including DeepMind); and almost all are active in research. You can see our network of alumni here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/greater-gatsby Full funding is available to all students, regardless of nationality. Gatsby PhD studentships cover the cost of tuition at the appropriate rate, and include a tax-free stipend, presently £24,000 per annum. The Unit also welcomes applications from students with pre-secured funding or who are currently soliciting other scholarship/studentships. Further information on the programme can be found here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/study-and-work/phd-programme We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups. Questions should be directed to admissions(a)gatsby.ucl.ac.uk

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Master in Brain and Cognition, Barcelona
by Ruben Moreno Bote Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 2, 2021

Enrollment period for the Master in Brain and Cognition open! For Comp Neuro lovers! https:/https://www.upf.edu/web/mbc Why our master? (1) Barcelona, (2) Albert Compte + Gustavo Deco + Alex Hyafil + Klaus Wimmer + myself (Ruben Moreno-Bote) + top others, (3) hands-on teaching, with a 2-trimesters long project, (4) 2 new courses: "The Neural Basis of Memory" by Compte, and "The Brain in Action, Decision Making" by myself (5) highly international students (80% from abroad) + in English + highly competitive (accept only 25, typically from a list of 120 candidates) -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn https://twitter.com/morenobote <https://twitter.com/morenobote?lang=ca>

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job: machine learning research scientist at NIMH
by Francisco Pereira Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 2, 2021

## HIRING: machine learning research scientist The Machine Learning Team at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, MD, has an open position for a machine learning research scientist. The NIMH is the leading federal agency for research on mental disorders and neuroscience, and part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). ## About the NIMH Machine Learning Team Our mission is to help NIMH scientists use machine learning methods to address research problems in clinical and cognitive psychology and neuroscience. These range from identifying biomarkers for aiding diagnoses to creating and testing models of mental processes in healthy subjects. Our overarching goal is to use machine learning to improve every aspect of the scientific effort, from helping discover or develop theories to generating actionable results. We work with many different data types, including very large brain imaging datasets from various imaging modalities, behavioral data, and picture and text corpora. We have excellent computational resources, both of our own (tens of high-end GPUs for deep learning, several large servers) and shared within the NIH (a cluster with hundreds of thousands of CPUs, and hundreds of GPUs). As a machine learning research group, we develop new methods and publish in the main machine learning conferences (e.g. NeurIPS and ICLR), as well as in psychology and neuroscience journals. Many of our problems require devising research approaches that combine imaging and non-imaging data, and leveraging structured knowledge resources (databases, scientific literature, etc) to generate explanations and hypotheses. You can find more about our work and recent publications at https://cmn.nimh.nih.gov/mlt ## About the position We are seeking candidates who are capable of combining machine learning, statistical, and domain-specific computational tools to solve practical data analysis challenges (e.g. designing experiments, generating and testing statistical hypotheses, training and interpreting predictive models, and developing novel models and methods). Additionally, candidates should be capable of visualizing and communicating findings to a broad scientific audience, as well as explaining the details of relevant methods to researchers in a variety of domains. Desirable experience that is not required, but will be considered very favorably: - deep learning - reinforcement learning - Bayesian statistical modelling - other types of modelling of human/animal learning and decision-making - neuroimaging data processing/ analysis (any MRI modality, MEG, or EEG) - other types of neural data (e.g. neural recording, calcium imaging) in the context of substantial research projects, ideally having led to submitted or published articles. Finally, you should have demonstrable experience programming in languages currently used in data-intensive, scientific computing, such as Python, MATLAB or R. Experience with handling large datasets in high performance computing settings is also very valuable. Although this position requires a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline, we will consider applicants from a variety of backgrounds, as their research experience is the most important factor. Backgrounds of team members include computer science, statistics, mathematics, and biomedical engineering. This is an ideal position for someone who wants to establish a research career in method development and applications driven by scientific and clinical needs. Given our access to a variety of collaborators and large or unique datasets, there is ample opportunity to match research interests with novel research problems. We also maintain collaborations outside of the NIH, driven by our own research interests or community impact. If you would like to be considered for this position, please send francisco.pereira(a)nih.gov a CV, with your email serving as cover letter. We especially encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups in the machine learning research community. If you already have a research statement, please feel free to send that as well. There is no need for reference letters at this stage. Other inquiries are also welcome. Thank you for your attention and interest!

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postdoc position on brain-machine interfaces at NYU & UO
by Luca Mazzucato Nov. 1, 2021

Nov. 1, 2021

The Kiani (NYU) and Mazzucato (UO) labs are looking for a computational neuroscience postdoc to lead a project on closed-loop behavioral control in primates using a brain-machine interface. The candidate will develop a new theoretical framework to infer causal interactions from sparse sampling of large neural ensembles and deploy this method in the prefrontal cortex of behaving primates. The goal of this project is to innovate a technique for targeted manipulation of the prefrontal circuit and alter the monkey’s cognitive behavior in real-time, a key step toward advanced brain-machine interfaces and novel enhancing or therapeutic interventions in the human brain. The theory position will be co-supervised between the labs of Roozbeh Kiani at New York University and Luca Mazzucato at University of Oregon. The postdoc will be part of the vibrant neuroscience and machine learning communities at the Center for Neural Sciences (NYU) and at the Institute of Neuroscience (UO). The postdoc will be a member of the NSF-funded Accelnet consortium "International network for brain-inspired computation," fostering international collaborations between a large network of computational neuroscience/AI labs. Successful candidates will have a PhD in Physics, Neuroscience, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics or a related discipline and, preferably, working experience in theoretical neuroscience and deep learning. Our labs strongly advocate for inclusivity in science and we encourage applications from underrepresented groups. For informal inquiries about the position please contact Roozbeh Kiani or Luca Mazzucato. Application reviews will start on Nov. 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Roozbeh Kiani & Luca Mazzucato

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Modellers Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox
by Stewart Heitmann Oct. 31, 2021

Oct. 31, 2021

Modeller’s Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox Online Course. Enrolments open 1-20 Nov 2021. This is a practical, self-paced course for researchers and students who wish to build their own dynamical models using the Brain Dynamics Toolbox (bdtoolbox.org<http://bdtoolbox.org>). Participants learn the art of programming differential equations to simulate neuronal dynamics. Topics include programming Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Delay Differential Equations, Stochastic Differential Equations, Auxiliary Plot Functions and command-line tools. Example code is provided in all cases. Study time is 8 hours. Course Website https://bdtoolbox.org/p/modellers-workshop/ Important Dates Early-bird enrolments ($125) close Saturday 6th Nov, 2021. Late enrolments ($150) close Saturday 20th Nov, 2021. Stewart Heitmann | Computational Scientist Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute | Lowy Packer Building | 405 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 Australia E: s.heitmann(a)victorchang.edu.au<mailto:s.heitmann@victorchang.edu.au> | @VictorChangInst Disclaimer The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and may have been automatically archived by Mimecast Ltd, an innovator in Software as a Service (SaaS) for business. Providing a safer and more useful place for your human generated data. Specializing in; Security, archiving and compliance. To find out more visit the Mimecast website.

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Postdoc in Brain Computer Interfaces, Melbourne, Australia
by David Grayden Oct. 28, 2021

Oct. 28, 2021

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Australia as part of the Australian Research Council Training Centre in Cognitive Computing for Medical Technologies. The Training Centre aims to create a workforce that is expert in developing, applying and interrogating artificial intelligence technologies in data-intensive medical contexts. Research Fellow in Brain Computer Interfaces will aim to develop a brain-computer interface (BCI) that can be used to control commercially available augmentative devices for people with speech, vision or motor disorders. Details: https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/906909/ Applications close: 11:55 pm 19 November 2021 Australian Eastern Daylight Time (UTC/GMT+11 hours) Regards, David Professor David B. Grayden Clifford Chair of Neural Engineering Director, Medical Technologies Platform Dept of Biomedical Engineering Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010 Australia https://biomedical.eng.unimelb.edu.au/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgrayden This email and any attachments may contain personal information or information that is otherwise confidential or the subject of copyright. Any use, disclosure or copying of any part of it is prohibited. The University does not warrant that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or defects. Please check any attachments for viruses and defects before opening them. If this email is received in error please delete it and notify us by return email.

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Job Posting: MindCORE Postdoctoral Research Fellowships at UPenn
by Calvert, Heather J Oct. 26, 2021

Oct. 26, 2021

MindCORE Postdoctoral Research Fellowships MindCORE seeks to recruit outstanding postdoctoral researchers for our Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Scholars. Housed within the School of Arts and Sciences of the University of Pennsylvania, MindCORE (https://mindcore.sas.upenn.edu/) is an interdisciplinary effort to understand human intelligence and behavior. Designed for individuals who have recently obtained a PhD degree in psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, computer science or other cognitive science discipline, the MindCORE Fellowship is a springboard for young researchers as they establish their own research program. Fellows are also encouraged to pursue collaborative research with faculty working across disciplines at Penn. Benefits Fellows receive a competitive salary, relocation allowance, health insurance, plus a modest research budget of $20,000. Fellows also benefit from access to the greater community of academics including visiting scholars plus leading research facilities equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation all on an urban campus in a vibrant city. Fellows are invited to join regular working group meetings within their field plus career development workshops aimed at young researchers, and will be provided with a mentoring committee. Funding is provided in one-year terms renewable for up to three years. Eligibility & Application We are accepting applications for 2022-2023 until January 10, 2022. Applicants must have formally completed all requirements of the PhD degree and provide a copy of their diploma at the time of appointment (typically July 1, 2022 - Jan 15, 2023). Candidates must submit a research statement that identifies at least three MindCORE faculty (https://mindcore.sas.upenn.edu/people/faculty-and-associates/) at Penn with whom the applicant could potentially collaborate; along with a CV, and contact information for two referees. Complete applications should be submitted along with some basic information using a form available on the website: https://mindcore.sas.upenn.edu/post-doctoral-research-fellowship/. Selection All eligible and complete applications will be evaluated by the Selection Committee after January 10. Applications are judged on the following criteria: Scientific excellence Scientific match and interdisciplinarity Career potential MindCORE seeks to award ~2 post-doctoral Fellowships per year. Positions may start as early as July 1, 2022. Questions? Contact pennmindcore(a)sas.upenn.edu<mailto:pennmindcore@sas.upenn.edu>

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Postdoc in computational cognitive neuroscience with human neurons in Utah
by ELLIOT H SMITH Oct. 26, 2021

Oct. 26, 2021

Two NIH-funded (5 years) postdoctoral research scientist positions are available in Human Neuronal Computation Laboratory in the Neurosurgery Department at the University of Utah. We are seeking applicants with computational skills (signal processing, data mining, statistical modeling) to study neural representations of abstract space, and distributional reinforcement learning in human neuron activity recorded from epilepsy patients. Please send an email and CV if interested. Thanks, Elliot _____________________________ Elliot H Smith, PhD (he/him) Assistant Professor Department of Neurosurgery University of Utah 175 N Medical Drive #5 Salt Lake, City, UT 84132 e.h.smith(a)utah.edu<mailto:e.h.smith@utah.edu> +1-206-349-1249

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NEXT WEEK: New Approaches to 3D Vision, 1st-4th Nov 2021, Royal Society online meeting
by Linton, Paul Oct. 26, 2021

Oct. 26, 2021

NEXT WEEK: NEW APPROACHES TO 3D VISION, 1st-4th November 2021, hosted by the Royal Society This Royal Society online meeting brings together researchers from computer vision, animal vision, and human vision to explore recent developments in 3D vision. Speakers reflect both academia and industry, with representatives from DeepMind, Facebook Reality Labs, Google, and Microsoft Research. Date/Time: 1st-4th November 2021, 3-6pm (3-6:30pm on the 4th), UK Time Please note that the USA/UK time difference is 1hr less than usual Website: https://royalsociety.org/science-events-and-lectures/2021/11/3d-vision/ Registration (Free): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-approaches-to-3d-vision-registration-165… DAY ONE (1st Nov) - Seeing Beyond SLAM Chair: Andrew Fitzgibbon (Microsoft) Session One: Neural Scene Representation SM Ali Eslami (DeepMind): “Neural priors, neural encoders and neural renderers” Ida Momennejad (Microsoft Research): “Multi-scale predictive representations and human-like RL” Session Two: Perception-Action Loop Sergey Levine (UC Berkeley and Google): “Generalization in data-driven control” Andrew Glennerster (University of Reading): “Understanding 3D vision as a policy network” DAY TWO (2nd Nov) - Animals in Action Chair: Matteo Carandini (University College London) Session One: Locating Prey and Rewards Jenny Read (Newcastle University): “Stupid stereoscopic algorithms that still work” Aman Saleem (University College London): “Visual processing in the brain during navigation” Session Two: Navigation in 3D Space Kate Jeffery (University College London): “The cognitive map of 3D space: not as metric as we thought?” Gily Ginosar (Weizmann Institute of Science): “Locally ordered representation of 3D space in the entorhinal cortex” DAY THREE (3rd Nov) - Experiencing Space Chair: Mar Gonzalez-Franco (Microsoft Research) Session One: Theories of Visual Space Dhanraj Vishwanath (University of St Andrews): “Tripartite encoding of visual 3D space” Paul Linton (City, University of London): “New approaches to visual scale and visual shape” Session Two: Challenges for Virtual Reality Sarah Creem-Regehr (University of Utah): “Perception and Action in Virtual and Augmented Reality” Douglas Lanman (Facebook Reality Labs): “Engineering challenges for realistic displays” DAY FOUR (4th Nov) - Grasping the World Chair: Jody Culham (Western University) Session One: One Visual Stream or Two? Fulvio Domini (Brown University): “A novel non-probabilistic model of 3D cue integration explains both perception and action” Irene Sperandio (University of Trento): “Dissociations between perception and action in size-distance scaling” Session Two: 3D Space and Visual Impairment Ione Fine (University of Washington): “Do you hear what I see? How do early blind individuals experience object motion?” Ewa Niechwiej-Szwedo (University of Waterloo): “The role of binocular vision in the development of visuomotor control and performance of fine motor skills” Session Three: Panel Discussion Andrew Fitzgibbon (Microsoft), Matteo Carandini (University College London), Mar Gonzalez-Franco (Microsoft Research), and Jody Culham (Western University), share their thoughts on the future of 3D vision with an interactive Question and Answer session. Organisers: Michael Morgan FRS (City, University of London), Paul Linton (City, University of London), Jenny Read (Newcastle University), Dhanraj Vishwanath (University of St Andrews), Sarah Creem-Regehr (University of Utah), Fulvio Domini (Brown University)

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WWNeuRise series on the neuroscience of navigation
by William Podlaski Oct. 25, 2021

Oct. 25, 2021

WorldWideNeuRise will host several online talks throughout November-December on the topic of the neuroscience of navigation from the following speakers (titles TBA): Wednesday, 3 November, 5pm CET Erik Hermansen (Dunn Lab, NTNU) Sarthak Chandra (Fiete Lab, MIT) Wednesday, 17 November, 5pm CET Salman Qasim (Gu Lab, Mount Sinai) Jacob Bellmund (Doeller Lab, MPI CBS / Kavli Institute) Wednesday, 1 December, 5pm CET Hannah Payne (Aronov Lab, Columbia University) Nick Robinson (Hausser Lab, UCL) Wednesday, 8 December 5pm CET Philip Shamash (Branco Lab, UCL) Anna Gillespie (Frank Lab, UCSF) For more information, please visit our website (https://neurise.github.io/) find us on WorldWideNeuro (https://www.world-wide.org/Neuro/WWNeuRise/) or follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/WWNeuRise) We are always searching for PhD students and postdocs to give talks in our upcoming seminars on any topic in systems neuroscience. On our website ( https://neurise.github.io/) you can find an application form to directly apply, as well as a recommendation form, where you can suggest individuals from your lab, institute, or otherwise who you think might have an interesting story to tell! We are looking forward to seeing you at our upcoming seminars! The organising committee, Ellen Boven (Apps lab, University of Bristol) Christina Buetfering (Häusser lab, University College London) Wesley Clawson (Levin lab, Tufts University) Lucie Descamps (Kentros lab, Norwegian University of Science and Technology) Gily Ginosar (Ulanovsky lab, Weizmann Institute) Loreen Hertäg (Clopath lab, Imperial College London) Joram Keijser (Sprekeler lab, TU Berlin) Bill Podlaski (Machens lab, Champalimaud Research)

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Neuromatch Conference 4.0, Submission deadline Oct 25, conference Dec 1-2
by Rozell, Christopher J Oct. 22, 2021

Oct. 22, 2021

*****Deadline fast approaching for NMC 4!***** After three conferences in 2020, Neuromatch is pleased to be holding our fourth on December 1-2, 2021. Neuromatch 4.0 will be focused on Computational Neuroscience and will be similar to the scope of the first two NMC events in spring 2020. Agendas from previous NMC editions (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0) can be found on the Agenda from the conference website under the gear icon. The scope of NMC4 includes computational neuroscience and machine learning work that has a biological link. Registration costs are set at 15USD to cover technical costs, and if this is a difficulty, the fee can be waived without question. Each of our conferences has led the way in providing new innovations to the virtual conference space, and this year we are excited to offer you: * A combination of the virtual with the in-person conference experiences. You are encouraged to host or attend a local meetup, bringing people together to enjoy the conference, without the incredible economic and environmental costs of flying around the world. * The maintalks will be hosted on Crowdcast. Instead of posters, we offer flash talks (brief pre-recorded videos), and dedicated meet up times for discussion within Discord. * NMC for kids: a special session of talks for a younger audience and the young at heart interested in neuroscience. * We are developing new mechanisms to connect talks in the conference to corresponding preprints on bioRxiv, and we will provide links to preprints on other platforms as well. Read more at http://conference.neuromatch.io/ Important dates: * October 7, 2021: Registration and submission opens * October 25, 2021: Abstract submission deadline * Early November: local meetups portal opens * November 1 - 2, 2021: Abstract acceptance and live talk selection news * November 12, 2021: Video submission deadline for flashtalks * December 1 - 2, 2021: NMC 4.0 We look forward to seeing you at NMC 4.0! All the best, Neuromatch Conference Organizing Committee

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PhD Student Position for in-vivo Neurophysiology
by Alexander Maÿe Oct. 22, 2021

Oct. 22, 2021

PhD Student Position for in-vivo Neurophysiology The Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology (head: Prof. Dr. Andreas K. Engel) at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) aims to fill a doctoral researcher (PhD student) position for in-vivo neurophysiology. The vacant position is part of the Marie-Curie training network “European School of Network Neuroscience (euSNN)” (http://www.eusnn.eu <http://www.eusnn.eu/>) and is for a project on modulation of cortical networks by optogenetic approaches. Contract duration will be 3 years, with a salary level according to the EU regulations for Marie-Curie Training Networks. The key research theme at the Department of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology is the large-scale dynamics of cortical and subcortical networks which is addressed by combining electrophysiological and neuroimaging methods. The specific focus lies on the study of functional and effective connectivity in brain networks. Research at the Department aims to demonstrate and understand the functional role of dynamic large-scale coupling for perception, cognition and action. To this end, ongoing projects also test hypotheses on causal mechanisms by modulation of networks and connectivity. Furthermore, the Department has a strong interest in the pathophysiological relevance of neural synchrony and changes of large-scale coupling in brain disorders. Further information can be found at https://www.uke.de/neurophysiologie <https://www.uke.de/neurophysiologie> and http://www.40hz.net <http://www.40hz.net/>. At the UKE, the Department is embedded in an excellent environment for state-of-the-art network neuroscience, including multiple neuroimaging and animal research facilities, and excellent cooperation partners in all fields of clinical, theoretical and basic neuroscience. The new lab member will join a team with extensive expertise in in-vivo multisite recordings, connectivity analysis and network modulation using electrical and optogenetic stimulation approaches. The focus of the project will be on optogenetic modulation of oscillations and functional connectivity in cortical networks in anesthetized and behaving ferrets. The selected candidate will become a member of the euSNN network (http://www.eusnn.eu <http://www.eusnn.eu/>), which involves leading neuroscience labs as well as industrial partners from seven European countries and offers rich possibilities for interdisciplinary training and cooperation in network neuroscience. Candidates should have or expect a master in neuroscience, biology or related disciplines. Training in neurophysiology, optogenetics and/or data analysis methods is a plus. The Dept. of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology is committed to diversity and seeks applications from qualified individuals regardless of their demographic status, gender, or cultural background. Applications from severely disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Applications should include a motivation letter, a CV, copies of university degrees and a transcript of course records. Please send your application materials as PDF (ideally in one file) to: ak.engel(a)uke.de <mailto:ak.engel@uke.de>. Prof. Dr. Andreas K. Engel Dept. of Neurophysiology and Pathophysiology University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf -- _____________________________________________________________________ Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf; Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts; Gerichtsstand: Hamburg | www.uke.de Vorstandsmitglieder: Prof. Dr. Burkhard Göke (Vorsitzender), Joachim Prölß, Prof. Dr. Blanche Schwappach-Pignataro, Marya Verdel _____________________________________________________________________ SAVE PAPER - THINK BEFORE PRINTING

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Postdoc in comp. neuroscience - learning dynamics - Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
by Vinita Samarasinghe Oct. 22, 2021

Oct. 22, 2021

Prof. Sen Cheng, Institute for Neural Computation at the Ruhr University Bochum, invites applications for a full time *Postdoctoral position* (TV-L E13) in Computational Neuroscience. The position starts on July 1, 2022 and is funded for three years. The position is part of the Collaborative Research Center “Extinction Learning” (SFB 1280 <https://sfb1280.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/home/>) and entails the following duties: * analyze learning dynamics in behavioral, neural, and psychophysiological data, which will be collected by other projects within the SFB 1280, * compare the learning dynamics between individuals, species, learning phases and learning paradigms, * develop algorithms to analyze the learning dynamics, * develop and study computational models of learning dynamics, * coordinate research with other participating projects. Candidates must have: * a doctorate degree in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, electrical/biomedical engineering or a closely related field, * relevant experience in mathematical modeling, * excellent programming skills (e.g., Python, C/C++, Matlab), * excellent communication skills in English, * the ability to work well in a team. Research experience in neuroscience would be a further asset. The position is third party funded and does not have any formal teaching duties attached. The research group is highly dynamic and uses diverse computational modeling approaches including biological neural networks, cognitive modeling, and machine learning to investigate learning and memory in humans and animals. For further information see www.rub.de/cns. The Ruhr University Bochum is home to a vibrant research community in neuroscience and cognitive science. The Institute for Neural Computation is an independent research unit and combines different areas of expertise ranging from experimental and theoretical neuroscience to machine learning and robotics. The Institute for Neural Computation focuses on the dynamics and learning of perception and behavior on a functional level but is otherwise very diverse, ranging from neurophysiology and psychophysics over computational neuroscience to machine learning and technical applications. 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 must be sent independently to the above email address. The deadline for applications is *January 2, 2022*. Travel costs for interviews will not be reimbursed. The Ruhr University Bochum is committed to equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. We are committed to providing a supportive work environment for female researchers, in particular 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 network 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. If you have any questions please feel free to get in touch with Vinita Samarasinghe (contact below) -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email: samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de

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Western-Fields Seminar Series | Frances Skinner
by Lyle Muller Oct. 21, 2021

Oct. 21, 2021

The eighth talk in the 2021 Western-Fields Seminar Series in Networks, Random Graphs, and Neuroscience<http://www.fields.utoronto.ca/activities/21-22/western-fields> is next Thursday (28 October) at noon ET. Frances Skinner<https://www.skinnerlab.org/> (Krembil Research Institute) will give a talk titled “Tackling the cellular diversity in our brains” (abstract below). Dr. Skinner is a leader in computational neuroscience and has made fundamental contributions to the understanding of neural dynamics from single cells to whole networks. This seminar series features monthly virtual talks from a diverse group of researchers across computational neuroscience, physics, and graph theory. We are looking forward to talks from Alexander Lubotzky (Hebrew University of Jerusalem) in November and Jeannette Janssen (Dalhousie University) in December. Registration link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYuf-GppzkjHt0W5HMDpME2UpUiE7ntO5JS — How do we address the challenge of bringing about a cellular-based understanding of our brain workings? From a neurological disease perspective, this needs to be addressed as pathologies involve cellular specifics. The ‘brain hub’ hippocampus, an essential brain structure for learning and memory, generates robust rhythmic activities. However, figuring out how the multitude of cell types in the hippocampus contribute to these states is an immense challenge. In this talk, I will describe the modeling approaches we are taking to obtain a cellular-based understanding of theta (3-12 Hz) rhythms in the hippocampus, an essential element of the ‘phase-coding functional unit’ in the hippocampus. -- Lyle Muller http://mullerlab.ca

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Post doc in Cognitive-Computational Neuroscience at University College London (discrete and continuous human action control under threat)
by Dominik R. Bach Oct. 21, 2021

Oct. 21, 2021

*Post doc in Cognitive-Computational Neuroscience at University College London: discrete and continuous human action control under threat* We are looking for a research fellow in an ERC-funded research project "Action selection under threat - the complex control of human defence" led by Dr Dominik Bach (http://bachlab.org <http://bachlab.org>) and based at University College London, Max-Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry (https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en <https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en>) and Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging (http://www.fil.ion.ucl.ac.uk/ <http://www.fil.ion.ucl.ac.uk/>). The overarching goal of the project is to understand the cognitive-computational control of human motor behaviour under acute, immediate threat. We investigate this in an immersive virtual reality (VR) environment, in which people can move to avoid a large number of different threats. As part of this project, the candidate will build and test explicit computational models of discrete and continuous action control and action updating under constraints of time pressure and unaffordable costs. We seek applicants with established cognitive-computational modelling skills and a PhD in computational neuroscience, robotics with focus on action planning, computer science/mathematics/physics with a focus on decision science, or in a related area. We are looking for an individual who is strongly motivated to pursue an academic career and is excited by the opportunities for personal and career development this position can provide. The post is available from October 2021 and funded for up to 3 years with initial appointment for 1 year. Starting salary is on UCL grade 7, ranging from £36,028 to £43,533 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance, superannuable. More information and access to the UCL online application portal: https://is.gd/VwTJCA <https://is.gd/VwTJCA> Please contact d.bach(a)ucl.ac.uk <mailto:d.bach@ucl.ac.uk> for any queries about the project or role. *Closing date: 16 July 2021* Interviews will be held remotely in July. Apologies for cross-posting. -- ----------------------- Dominik R Bach MBBS PhD Principal Research Fellow Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London http://bachlab.org | @bachlab_cog

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Two PostDoc positions, computational and experimental, on focused ultrasound neuromodulation
by Marcus Kaiser Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

Dear all, Two PostDoc positions for the development and experimental validation of computational models of the effects of human focused ultrasound neuromodulation are available in my lab. *About the project* This programme of work, using the NeuroFUS PRO equipment for focused ultrasound neuromodulation, will focus on developing a software framework for modelling the effects of brain stimulation. Our objectives are to establish models of the biological effect of focused ultrasound and to predict effects of stimulation in humans, based on experiments performed as part of this study at Nottingham, and non-human primates, based on data from collaborators. Validated models of stimulation effects will then be a starting point for personalized stimulation approaches. *Available RA positions* As part of this project, the lab of Prof. Marcus Kaiser ( http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/ ) is seeking talented and enthusiastic research assistants with a PhD awarded, or a PhD thesis about to be submitted, in computational biology or related subjects; prior experience in the neurosciences is desirable. Computational RA position: The research fellow will implement simulations of biological effects on non-invasive interventions on targeted brain regions and on indirect effects in the rest of the brain network. In addition, tools for comparing effects of stimulations within a computer model and effects observed in experimental studies will be developed. Experimental RA position: The research fellow will work on focused ultrasound experiments, will run simulations of the physical effects (pressure and thermal changes) of stimulation, and will perform the processing of neuroimaging data. *Research Environment* Nottingham “the home of MRI” offers an excellent environment for imaging ( https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/beacons-of-excellence/precision-imagi… and https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/groups/spmic/index.aspx ), is pioneering the use of neurotechnology for brain disorders ( http://mindtech.org.uk/ ), hosts the Institute of Mental Health ( https://www.institutemh.org.uk ), and has a large group of faculty members including four full professors (Stephen Coombes, Mark van Rossum, Mark Humphries, Marcus Kaiser) in the area of computational/mathematical neuroscience. *How to Apply*Apply before 2 November 2021 at https://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?id=35657&forced=2 (experimental RA) https://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?id=35654&forced=2 (computational RA) For informal queries, please contact Dr Marcus Kaiser, marcus.kaiser(a)nottingham.ac.uk Best, Marcus -- *Marcus Kaiser, Ph.D. FRSB* @ConnectomeLab <https://twitter.com/ConnectomeLab> *Professor of Neuroinformatics* *Precision Imaging Beacon, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham* Guanci Visiting Professor Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China Book: Changing Connectomes https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/changing-connectomes Lab website: http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/ Neuroinformatics UK: http://www.neuroinformatics.org.uk/

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FLAIRS-35 CFP, May 15-18, 2022, Jensen Beach, Florida
by David B Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

FLAIRS-35 Special Track on Neural Networks and Data Mining The Florida Artificial Intelligence Research Symposium (FLAIRS) is an interdisciplinary conference which features double-blind reviewing, free tutorials, and a warm and sunny venue. Abstract Due Date: January 17, 2022 Submission Due Date: January 24, 2022 Conference: May 15-18, 2022 Jensen Beach, Florida Website: https://sites.google.com/view/flairs-35-nn-dm-track/home URL: https://www.flairs-35.info/call-for-papers Papers are being solicited for a special track on Neural Networks and Data Mining at the 35th International FLAIRS Conference (https://www.flairs-35.info/home) This special track will be devoted to neural networks and data mining with the aim of presenting new and important contributions in these areas. Papers and contributions are encouraged for any work related to neural networks, data mining, or the intersection thereof. Topics of interest may include (but are in no way limited to): applications such as Pattern Recognition, Control and Process Monitoring, Biomedical Applications, Robotics, Text Mining, Diagnostic Problems, Telecommunications, Power Systems, Signal Processing; Intelligence analysis, medical and health applications, text, video, and multi-media mining, E-commerce and web data, financial data analysis, cyber security, remote sensing, earth sciences, bioinformatics, and astronomy; algorithms such as new developments in Back Propagation, RBF, SVM, Deep Learning, Ensemble Methods, Kernel Approaches; hybrid approaches such as Neural Networks/Genetic Algorithms, Neural Network/Expert Systems, Causal Nets trained with Backpropagation, and Neural Network/Fuzzy Logic applications such as Intelligence analysis, medical and health applications, text, video, and multi-media mining, E-commerce and web data, financial data analysis, cyber security, remote sensing, earth sciences, bioinformatics, and astronomy; modeling algorithms such as hidden Markov models, decision trees, neural networks, statistical methods, or probabilistic methods; case studies in areas of application, or over different algorithms and approaches; graph modeling, pattern discovery, and anomaly detection; feature extraction and selection; post-processing techniques such as visualization, summarization, or trending; preprocessing and data reduction; and knowledge engineering or warehousing. Questions regarding the track should be addressed to: David Bisant at bisant(a)umbc.edu, Steven Gutstein at s.m.gutstein(a)gmail.com, or Bill Eberle at weberle(a)tntech.edu.

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Fellow applications for Georgia Tech/Emory Computational Neural Engineering Training Program
by Rozell, Christopher J Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

Georgia Tech/Emory invite you to apply to become a Fellow in our NIH/NIBIB Computational Neural Engineering Training Program (CNTP)! Fellows receive full stipend and tuition for two years to support rotations and foster cross-disciplinary collaborative training. The CNTP aims to train the next generation of researchers at the intersection of computational neuroscience, neural engineering, data science, and clinical neurophysiology. Central to our mission is our core belief that just as the diversity among cells, circuits, and networks is critical for navigating a complex and ever-changing world, diversity in the background, experiences, and expertise among our team members is key to understanding and interacting with the brain. The CNTP seeks diversity in the recruiting of our fellows, scholars, and training faculty, equity among the members of our diverse team, and to create an inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and heard. Training components include new coursework (“Clinical Experience for Engineers”), seminars, innovation forums, professional development meetings, and community retreats. Overall, the CNTP creates novel opportunities to gain experience in science, engineering and clinical domains, resulting in an exceptional and unique training experience. More information on the CNTP is here: https://sites.gatech.edu/cntp/. Fellow applications are solicited from admitted applicants to one of the four participating PhD programs linked below (PhD in BME, ECE, Bioe or ML). Fellows must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents. If you are interested in joining the CNTP, you must first apply to one of those programs. Deadlines vary, beginning December 1, 2021. Detailed application instructions: https://sites.gatech.edu/cntp/how-to-apply/. Please contact Dr. Rozell at crozell(a)gatech.edu<mailto:crozell@gatech.edu> with any questions. Graduate program application assistance Current CNTP trainees are offering graduate application assistance to provide feedback on essays and give guidance on potentially relevant faculty. You can request assistance by filling out the form below before November 8, 2021: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefcaCnxG_CLQnUvw6Mvgo2Q2zzrnhDx_d… Participating PhD programs PhD in Biomedical Engineering at GT/Emory (due 12/1/2021) https://bme.gatech.edu/bme/georgia-tech-emory-bme-phd-program PhD in Electrical & Computer Engineering at GT (due 12/16/2021) https://www.ece.gatech.edu/graduate-admissions PhD in Bioengineering at GT with BME or ECE home school (deadline is from home school) https://bioengineering.gatech.edu/ PhD in Machine Learning at GT with BME or ECE home school (deadline is from home school) http://ml.gatech.edu/phd

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Announcing "Bernstein SmartSteps - Featuring Early Career Scientists"
by Anja Dorrn Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

The Bernstein SmartSteps<https://bernstein-network.de/en/network/awards-and-initiatives/bernstein-sm…> series provides a unique platform for selected Early Career Scientists of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience<https://bernstein-network.de/en/> to present their research projects to the scientific community. Each session one PhD candidate and one Postdoc who are ready to take their next (smart) step for their scientific career will discuss their research in an online seminar. Join the Bernstein SmartSteps Series as an audience if you are interested in cutting-edge computational neuroscience and want to watch out for new talents in the field. The live talks will be held in Zoom. A recording will be published in a separate collection on the Bernstein Vimeo Channel. Please register here<https://indico-jsc.fz-juelich.de/event/201/registration/register#/register>, if you would like to join for the live talks. A link to the event in Zoom will be sent shortly before via email. Fall series 2021<https://bernstein-network.de/en/network/awards-and-initiatives/bernstein-sm…> Thursday, November 4, 4 pm CET * Miriam Henning (Silies lab) | University of Mainz, Germany An optimal population code for global motion estimation in local direction-selective cells * Barna Zajzon (Morrison lab) | Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany Representation transfer and signal denoising through topographic modularity Thursday, November 25, 4 pm CET * Han Lu (Vlachos lab) | University of Freiburg, Germany Homeostatic structural plasticity of neuronal connectivity triggered by optogenetic stimulation * Golan Karvat (Diester lab) | University of Freiburg, Germany Spontaneous activity competes with externally evoked responses in sensory cortex Thursday, December 9, 4 pm CET * Bin Wang (Aljadeff lab) | University of California San Diego, USA A nonlinear shot noise model for calcium-based synaptic plasticity * Helene Schreyer (Gollisch lab) | University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany Nonlinear spatial integration in retinal bipolar cells shapes the encoding of artificial and natural stimuli -- Dr. Anja Dorrn Scientific Coordinator Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 web: www.bernstein-network.de<http://www.bernstein-network.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Open position: Master's student in computational neuroscience at the University of Toronto
by Scott Rich Oct. 19, 2021

Oct. 19, 2021

The Neuron to Brain lab is searching for a Master's student to work on a project in Computational Neuroscience studying the role of neural heterogeneity in generating seizure resilience in neural circuits. The work will be supervised by Dr. Taufik Valiante and directly mentored by Dr. Scott Rich. Details can be found at here <http://www.neurontobrainlaboratory.ca/sites/default/files/N2BLab_Computatio…>. -- Sincerely, Scott Rich, Ph.D Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Krembil Research Institute (affiliated with the University of Toronto) scottrich.strikingly.com

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[Jobs] PhD position in Multimodal Grounding for Robotic Assistants (ANITI, Toulouse, France)
by Rufin VanRullen Oct. 19, 2021

Oct. 19, 2021

PhD position in Multimodal Grounding for Robotic Assistants (ANITI, Toulouse, France) The Artificial and Natural Intelligence Toulouse Institute (ANITI: https://aniti.univ-toulouse.fr/en/) in Toulouse (France) is looking to recruit a PhD student in Machine Learning to work on multimodal grounding (e.g., joint vision-language models). The selected candidate will develop deep learning models capable of achieving state-of-the-art performance on cognitively challenging problems such as: Visual Question Answering, Incremental Learning, Meta-Learning, Multi-Task Learning, Task-Switching, Robust Representation Learning, etc. The candidate will join an active group of like-minded students (the ANITI Graduate School) and a vibrant research community (made up of nearly 30 ANITI Research Chairs). Work will be carried out in the Chair of Rufin VanRullen (https://rufinv.github.io) at CerCo (https://cerco.cnrs.fr) but in close collaboration with local and international research groups (IRIT, LAAS, Linagora, University of Potsdam, Airbus AI research). Rufin VanRullen’s ANITI Chair is entitled “Deep Learning with Semantic, Cognitive and Biological Constraints”, and aims at fostering next-generation AI architectures by drawing inspiration from Cognitive Sciences and Neuroscience. The PhD project is part of a large-scale France-Germany collaborative grant entitled “Natural Language Programming for Conversational Cobots”. The multi-modal grounding research will need to assist the overall grant objectives (ultimately, helping robotic assistants interact with humans in natural language), but there will also be freedom to pursue independent research questions related to multimodal grounding in AI and/or in the brain. The ideal candidate will have a Masters in Computer Science, Machine Learning or related fields, and substantial experience with at least one deep learning framework (PyTorch, Tensorflow, Keras…). Research experience in Computer Vision, NLP and/or Reinforcement Learning is highly desirable. The salary scale is according to ANITI standards. The position is open to start immediately, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. To apply, send a CV and a short (less than 1-page) statement about research interests to rufin.vanrullen(a)cnrs.fr. Informal inquiries can also be made to the same address. -- ---------------------------------------------------- Rufin VanRullen, PhD. < ANITI - AI Research Chair > Artificial & Natural Intelligence Toulouse Institute CNRS-Centre de Recherche Cerveau & Cognition (CerCo) Faculte de Medecine Purpan - 31052 Toulouse (France) email: rufin.vanrullen(a)cnrs.fr Web: https://rufinv.github.io/ Tel: +33 669 547 468 ----------------------------------------------------

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Professorship in AI at the Stralsund University of Applied Sciences
by André Grüning Oct. 19, 2021

Oct. 19, 2021

Professorship in AI at the Stralsund University of Applied Sciences In the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science we have an open position for a permanent W2 professorship in Artificial Intelligence. Application deadline is 7.11.2021 with planned start date for the new appointee on 1.9.2022. The post involves teaching and (applied) research. Willingness to participate in the self-administration of the institution is also expected. The formal and binding announcement of the opening (in German only) can be found at: <https://www.hochschule-stralsund.de/host/aktuelles/stellenangebote/> or <https://jobs.zeit.de/jobs/professur-w2-kuenstliche-intelligenz-in-der-fakul…> We are in particular looking for a candidate with comprehensive knowledge of and practical experience in at least one of the following areas: - neurocognition - neurorobotics, - deep learning - natural language processing - computer brain interfaces. Note that normally one of the requirements for an appointment is that the candidate has work experience of at least 5 years prior to the appointment, of which at least three shall be outside the (immediate) University sector. For further information, contact the chair person of the appointment committee Prof Andre Gruening, <andre_gruening(a)hochschule-stralsund.de> -- Prof. Dr. André Grüning -- Mathematik und Künstliche Intelligenz Fakultät Elektrotechnik und Informatik Hochschule Stralsund -- Mathematics and Computational Intelligence Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Stralsund University of Applied Sciences -- 18435 Stralsund Deutschland/Germany

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Multiple vacancies at the University of Melbourne
by Uwe Aickelin Oct. 16, 2021

Oct. 16, 2021

We have advertised five opportunities to join the top ranked School of Computing and Information Systems in Australia (THES and QS). Please share with your networks and encourage applications.. Full details below. Algorithmic Fairness: https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/en/job/906606/senior-lecturerassociate-professo… Machine Learning and Systems (two positions): https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/906506/lecturer-or-senior-lecturer-i… Digital Ethics: https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/906636/senior-lecturerassociate-prof… Information Systems: https://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/904639/lecturersenior-lecturer-infor… Professor Uwe Aickelin | Head of School of Computing and Information Systems Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology Level 3, Melbourne Connect – 700 Swanston Street The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010 Australia T: +61 3 8344 3635 E: uwe.aickelin(a)unimelb.edu.au<mailto:uwe.aickelin@unimelb.edu.au> http://aickelin.com/ | http://linkedin.com/in/aickelin

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Two Tenure Track Assistant Professor Positions, Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech
by Pearl Chiu Oct. 15, 2021

Oct. 15, 2021

Dear All, Virginia Tech Psychology is seeking two assistant professors, open area. Computational (cognitive, neuro) science applicants very welcome! Best, Pearl --- Tenure Track Assistant Professor Positions Department of Psychology Virginia Tech The Department of Psychology at Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for two tenure-track assistant professors. We seek candidates who will increase the department's commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity through their research, teaching, mentoring and/or lived experience. The search is open to candidates in any area of psychology, although applicants are encouraged to think about how they would fit into one of our four existing graduate training areas (Developmental Science, Industrial and Organizational, Biological, Clinical Science). Successful applicants will have a Ph.D. by the Fall 2022 start date, a demonstrated commitment to research, teaching and mentoring, and/or service and engagement. The Department of Psychology includes a group of scholars who work to increase understanding of psychological processes involved in human behavior. This research includes identifying typical and disordered processes that contribute to mental and physical health across the lifespan, as well as the psychological and social processes that influence people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as they engage with family, work, and their community. While faculty members in Psychology share a common interest in psychological processes, our specific interests, research methods, and expertise are diverse and include both behavioral and neuroscience approaches with experimental, survey, and big data methodologies. Some researchers are committed to increasing understanding of basic psychological processes, while others emphasize implications for developmental, organizational, and clinical issues. We are all committed to building a diverse and inclusive department. Review of applications will begin October 30, 2021, with applications considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Inquiries regarding the position can be directed to Martha Ann Bell (mabell(a)vt.edu) chair of the search committee. Required Qualifications Ph.D. in psychology or a related field Ability to establish an independent research program and contribute to teaching undergraduate and graduate courses Application Instructions Applications must be submitted online at jobs.vt.edu (Job Number 517603; https://careers.pageuppeople.com/968/cw/en-us/job/517603/assistant-professo…) 1) A full curriculum vitae 2) A statement describing experience and interests in promoting inclusion and equity through teaching, mentoring, and/or research 3) A statement of research accomplishments and future directions 4) A statement of teaching experience and approach 5) Three samples of scholarly writing (published, in press, under review, or in progress). We recommend candidates submit the research they are most proud of, regardless of journal ranking or impact factor. 6) The names and contact information of three academic references (letters are not required initially) The Psychology Department offers a supportive environment, including a mentoring program to its junior faculty. Virginia Tech is an institutional member of the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity (NCFDD). The College of Science is also committed to the professional development of junior faculty through various university initiatives (e.g., the College of Science Faculty Academy, Faculty Writing Group Grants, Faculty Mentoring Grants). Virginia Tech is responsive to the needs of dual career couples. Additional Information The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check as well as documentation of COVID-19 vaccination or receive approval from the university for a vaccination exemption due to a medical condition or sincerely held religious belief. About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually. Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Michelle Wooddell at mwooddel(a)vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event. -- Pearl Chiu, PhD Associate Professor Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech VTC School of Medicine Salem VA Medical Center 2 Riverside Circle, R1110 Roanoke VA 24016 +1 540-526-2019 chiup(a)vtc.vt.edu

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DeepMath Conference 2021 (Nov 4 - 5)
by Ahmed El Hady Oct. 15, 2021

Oct. 15, 2021

Registration is open for the conference on Deep Learning theory. Details below: Dear Community, We are happy to announce that registration is live for*DeepMath 2021* (https://deepmath-conference.com/) Please register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/deepmath-2021-registration-172453000567and see below for important information about this year’s DeepMath conference. This year we are excited to have speaking at DeepMath: Becca Willet - U Chicago Stephane Mallat - College de France Caroline Uhler - MIT Yannis Kevrekidis - Johns Hopkins Aarti Singh - Carnegie Mellon University Raman Arora - Johns Hopkins Kamalika Chaudhuri - UCSD DeepMath 2021 will be a fully online event. Like last year, we will use Gather to create a virtual DeepMath experience that brings online some of the spontaneous interaction and discussion that we all enjoyed before the pandemic. Gather is an online gathering space that combines a 2d map with seamless drop-in / drop-out video chats to make something a bit more interactive than a single giant video call. Gather worked smoothly the last time, and we feel confident that this is the right choice for DeepMath 2021 as well. Our plenary talks will still be streamed over a Zoom webinar and re-streamed for free to YouTube, but the remainder of the event will be held entirely over Gather. We will soon be opening up registration, and look forward to seeing you there! How to register: Click on the registration link (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/deepmath-2021-registration-172453000567) This will bring you to eventbrite. Make an eventbrite account if you don't already have one. Buy a ticket for the conference. Once you have purchased a ticket, an account with the same email will be propagated to both Zoom and Gather. Note that this process may take some time, so your accounts may not be available immediately. Upon registration, you will also be granted access to the EventBrite conference website, which will include a link to enter our Gather conference venue. The venue will open 2 days ahead of the main conference so you can familiarize yourself with its features if you would like. Our Zoom webinar link will be available in the Gather main conference hall. You will arrive in our gather.town conference venue. This space will open 2 days ahead for you to explore. All conference events will be linked to from this space. Talks will be held on zoom, but can be accessed through the auditorium. There is another room for posters, one for talking with virtual whiteboards, and several spaces for socializing. Some features of our conference map. Gather is a 2d interactive space you can move around in using your arrow keys or the WASD keys on your keyboard. When you come within a few squares of another avatar, a video chat automatically opens between you. Moving your avatar away disengages the video chat. Occasionally you will be able to interact with objects by pressing ‘x’, for example to view a poster PDF or open a whiteboard or Zoom link. Main room: There will be an information desk, as well as a pamphlet describing how to navigate Gather. Press x to interact with either. Volunteers will be available in this space for the duration of the conference to address any questions or concerns you may have. Auditorium Enter this room to access the zoom link for talks. Clicking on the link will automatically turn off your audio and video on ather, eliminating feedback issues. You can also access the zoom talks directly, but be careful of feedback issues. Poster rooms Posters will be displayed here. The poster browsing radius is set slightly larger than the video-call interaction radius, so you will be able to browse posters and decide which one you would like to “walk up” to. Press x to display the poster. Talk to the author and others at the poster. Whiteboard rooms Meet and talk at a numbered whiteboard. Writing persists at the boards, is not erased when you leave. So if you return to the same board, you can continue where you left off. (Unless the next person erases the board! Just like in real life. :) ) Private areas In the rooms, look for areas demarcated by potted trees or carpeting. In these areas, only the people within the demarcated space can see and hear each other. If you step over the line, even if you're within the interaction radius, you will no longer see anyone in the demarcated space. Thanks! DeepMath committee

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Hands-on workshop on High Performance Computing in Jan 2022 - registration is now open
by Anja Dorrn Oct. 14, 2021

Oct. 14, 2021

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience<https://bernstein-network.de/en/> & Bernstein Facility for High Performance Simulation and Data Analysis<https://bernstein-network.de/en/network/research-infrastructure/high-perfor…> invite for a 2,5 day hands-on workshop in a hybrid format: "Advancing your neuroscientific research to the next level - How to use high performance computing and cloud services to answer your scientific questions" Dates: January 18-20, 2022 Registration deadline: November 25, 2021 On-site: Jülich Supercomputing Centre, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, (limited to 25 participants) & Online: Zoom (Link will be sent prior to the event) Neuroscientific research comes along with a multitude of highly complex data. Using high performance computing (HPC) and cloud services can help to better process and understand your data and to get the maximum benefit for your personal research. This is why the Bernstein Facility for High Performance Simulation and Data Analysis is the central port of call for Bernstein members to access the facilities of the high-performance computers at Forschungszentrum Jülich. This hands-on workshop will help you understand how to access the resources of the Jülich Supercomputing Center (JSC) and make the most of this opportunity for your specific research. Get inspired by professional use cases and benefit from the one-on-one exchange with the experts in high performance simulation and data analysis from Jülich. Participation in the 2,5 day event is open to early career researchers (PhD and early Post-docs), regardless of their affiliation with the Bernstein Network. Currently, the event is planned as a hybrid workshop enabling both online and on-site participation. Yet, the global Covid-19 situation might call for a change of plan. In this case, the organizers will inform registered participants straight away. More information and registration: https://bit.ly/3mVW6bS -- Dr. Anja Dorrn Scientific Coordinator Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 web: www.bernstein-network.de<http://www.bernstein-network.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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2 Senior Lecturer/Reader (Associates Professor equivalent) positions at Lancaster University, UK
by Westermann, Gert Oct. 14, 2021

Oct. 14, 2021

This email originated outside the University. Check before clicking links or attachments. Dear colleagues, We are currently advertising two positions at Senior Lecturer/Reader level (US equivalent: Associate Professor) to join our Psychology department at Lancaster University, UK. The search area is broad, including neuroscience (and developmental cognitive neuroscience) and computational approaches. Deadline for applications: 13 December, 2021 We have fantastic shared research facilities for developmental cognitive neuroscience (see http://wp.lancs.ac.uk/babylab/) with several Tobii eye trackers, 4 EGI EEG systems, fNIRS, head mounted eye tracking, motion capture, BioPac, and an observation room, plus excellent technical support. Our facilities for adult neuroscience comprise diverse EEG systems, TMS as well as several eye trackers. Please see our research pages for more details: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/psychology/research/<https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/psychology/research/early-development/> Lancaster University is consistently ranked in the top 10 in the main UK league tables, and Lancaster has a high quality of life with beautiful surrounding countryside, good schools, and excellent transport links (London, Edinburgh, Glasgow 2.5h , Manchester airport 1.5h, all by direct train). Full details are here: https://hr-jobs.lancs.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=A3553 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gert Westermann Professor of Psychology Department of Psychology Lancaster University Lancaster LA1 4YF, UK Contact me on Teams<https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.mic…> Phone: +44 (0)1524 592 942 g.westermann(a)lancaster.ac.uk<mailto:g.westermann@lancaster.ac.uk> https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/people-profiles/gert-westermann

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5-Year MSc/PhD program in Computational Neuroscience in Tuebingen
by Peter Dayan Oct. 14, 2021

Oct. 14, 2021

International Max Planck Research School: The Mechanisms of Mental Function and Dysfunction 5-Year combined MSc/PhD program The Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research and the University of Tübingen invite students from all over the world to apply for their interdisciplinary 5-year combined MSc/PhD program leading to a PhD in Neuroscience. Full funding is available for top-ranked applicants. We are seeking talented, curious and open-minded scientists with strong backgrounds in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, computational science, applied mathematics, statistics, artificial intelligence, or engineering. Successful candidates will possess a burning aspiration to shape the future of neuroscience and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary, environment. The application deadline is 30th November 2021. Please visit: https://www.kyb.tuebingen.mpg.de/imprs-mmfd https://www.neuroschool-tuebingen.de/about-imprs/ for more details and information about applying. The MSc/PhD program is a collaboration between the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research and the University of Tübingen. It is closely affiliated with the renowned Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, the centerpiece of neuroscience training in Tübingen. Students (who should have been awarded a Bachelor's degree by September 2022) will receive a broad interdisciplinary training in neuroscience, including expert teaching by international renowned scientists and individual and intensive mentoring. Potential research topics cover a variety of fields in systems neuroscience, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, computational neuroscience, translational and clinical neuroscience as well as cellular and molecular neuroscience. Teaching and research are conducted in English.

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Independent postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Applied Mathematics
by Cengiz Pehlevan Oct. 13, 2021

Oct. 13, 2021

Dear colleagues, We have an independent postdoctoral position at Harvard Applied Math. Possible applicant interests are very broad including neuroscience and machine learning. Details are here: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10698 <https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10698> Please feel free to reach out to me with questions. Best wishes, Cengiz — Cengiz Pehlevan SEAS, Harvard University, pehlevan.seas.harvard.edu <http://pehlevan.seas.harvard.edu/>

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Canadian Symposium for Computational Neuroscience
by Wilten Nicola Oct. 12, 2021

Oct. 12, 2021

*Campus Alberta Neuroscience is pleased to announce the first ever Canadian Symposium for Computational Neuroscience, being held October 26-27 2021. This national symposium will be held virtually and will connect trainees, researchers, and industry representatives from across the country to share knowledge, research, and innovation. The major themes of the symposium will be: Biological Computation, Network Neuroscience, Dimensionality Reduction, and Information Decoding from Neural Networks. These topics will be supplemented with a workshop on machine learning provided by the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute and a keynote from Geoffrey Hinton. You can find more information here: https://www.albertaneuro.ca/education/#CSCN <https://www.albertaneuro.ca/education/#CSCN>*

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Post-doctoral Research Associate in Computational Neuroscience (Computational Modelling of Decision Making)
by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt Oct. 12, 2021

Oct. 12, 2021

Applications are invited for a US/NIH-Ireland funded Post-doctoral Research Associate post at the Intelligent Systems Research Centre in Ulster University, UK. The successful candidate will develop and apply advanced computational modelling techniques to understand brain and behavioural data across primate species, and to apply biologically based neural network modelling to elucidate the mechanisms underlying various forms of decision making. The duration of the post is 27 months, with possible extension. The personnel will work with Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin at Ulster University, while collaborating closely with international collaborators in the USA and the Republic of Ireland, namely, Prof. Michael Shadlen at Columbia University (USA), Prof. Stephan Bickel at Northwell-Hofstra School of Medicine (USA), Prof. Redmond O'Connell at Trinity College Dublin (Ireland), and Prof. Simon Kelly at University College Dublin (Ireland). All applicants should hold a degree in in Computational Neuroscience, Computational Biology, Neuroscience, Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, Physical Sciences, Biology, or a cognate area. Apply online: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/CJU115/research-associate-in-computational-neuro… Closing date for receipt of completed applications: 24th October 2021. Job Ref: 008566. If you have questions regarding this post, please contact: Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin, email: k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk . ------------------- Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin Reader Intelligent Systems Research Centre School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems Ulster University, UK https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-wong-lin This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

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Postdoctoral Positions at UT Austin
by Franco Pestilli Oct. 11, 2021

Oct. 11, 2021

Dear Colleagues, I would appreciate sharing the announcement below. Postdoctoral positions are available in the Laboratory of Dr. Franco Pestilli <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/psychology/faculty/fp4834> in the Department of Psychology <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/psychology/>, Center for Perceptual Systems <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/cps/> and Center for Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience <https://ctcn.utexas.edu/> at the University of Texas at Austin <https://www.utexas.edu/>. The positions are funded by NIH and NSF awards and associated with projects integrating the Brain Imaging Data Structure <https://bids.neuroimaging.io/>, brainlife.io, OpenNeuro.org with EEG, MEG and MRI data. The projects are in collaboration with: - Russ Poldrack, Stanford University <https://profiles.stanford.edu/russell-poldrack> - Ted Satterthwaite, University of Pennsylvania <https://www.med.upenn.edu/bbl/faculty-tsatterthwaithe.html> - Ariel Rokem, The University of Washington, Seattle <https://escience.washington.edu/people/ariel-rokem/> - Oscar Esteban, University of Lausanne <https://wp.unil.ch/connectomics/team/oscar-esteban/> - Cyril Pernet, Copenhagen University Hospital <https://cpernet.github.io/> - Robert Smith, Florey Institute of Neuroscience <https://florey.edu.au/science-research/scientist-directory/dr-robert-smith> - Eugene Duff, Imperial College London <https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/e.duff> - Aina Puce, Indiana University <https://psych.indiana.edu/directory/faculty/puce-aina.html> - Nathalie George, Sorbonne Université <https://institutducerveau-icm.org/fr/george-nathalie/> - Guiomar Niso, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid <https://guiomarniso.com/> A few words describing the projects: - *The Brain Imaging Data Structure for Connectivity.* Expanding the usability of the Brain Imaging Data Structure standard by developing the formats necessary to describe advanced data derivatives related to brain connections (diffusion imaging, tractography, tract-profiles, tractometry, functional networks, and network models). - *Integrating EEG and MEG data-processing Apps on brainlife.io <http://brainlife.io>. *Develop powerful web services to Integrate EEG and MEG data on brainlife.io so to allow standardization, reutilization and automated visualization of data. - *Deep and Shallow Machine-Learning for neuroimaging data analysis and augmentation using brainlife.io <http://brainlife.io>. *Work on projects related to the application of Machine-Learning algorithms to validate data and process open datasets from OpenNeuro.org using *software-as-service* reproducible processing pipelines on brainlife.io For more information please email: pestilli(a)utexas.edu Best regards, *FRANCO PESTILLI*, *Ph.D.* | *Associate Professor* Department of Psychology <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/psychology/index.php> | College of Liberal Arts <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/> | The University of Texas at Austin <https://www.utexas.edu/> he/him | pestilli(a)utexas.edu | web <https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/psychology/faculty/fp4834> | GitHub <https://github.com/francopestilli> | brainlife.io

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New Approaches to 3D Vision, 1st-4th Nov 2021, Royal Society online meeting
by Linton, Paul Oct. 11, 2021

Oct. 11, 2021

New Approaches to 3D Vision, 1st-4th November 2021, hosted by the Royal Society This Royal Society online meeting brings together researchers from computer vision, animal vision, and human vision to explore recent developments in 3D vision. Speakers reflect both academia and industry, with representatives from DeepMind, Facebook Reality Labs, Google, and Microsoft Research. Date/Time: 1st-4th November 2021, 3-6pm (3-6:30pm on the 4th), UK Time Please note that the USA/UK time difference is 1hr less than usual Website: https://royalsociety.org/science-events-and-lectures/2021/11/3d-vision/ Registration (Free): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-approaches-to-3d-vision-registration-165… DAY ONE (1st Nov) - Seeing Beyond SLAM Chair: Andrew Fitzgibbon (Microsoft) Session One: Neural Scene Representation SM Ali Eslami (DeepMind): “Neural priors, neural encoders and neural renderers” Ida Momennejad (Microsoft Research): “Multi-scale predictive representations and human-like RL” Session Two: Perception-Action Loop Sergey Levine (UC Berkeley and Google): TBC Andrew Glennerster (University of Reading): “Understanding 3D vision as a policy network” DAY TWO (2nd Nov) - Animals in Action Chair: Matteo Carandini (University College London) Session One: Locating Prey and Rewards Jenny Read (Newcastle University): “Stupid stereoscopic algorithms that still work” Aman Saleem (University College London): “Visual processing in the brain during navigation” Session Two: Navigation in 3D Space Kate Jeffery (University College London): “The cognitive map of 3D space: not as metric as we thought?” Gily Ginosar (Weizmann Institute of Science): “Locally ordered representation of 3D space in the entorhinal cortex” DAY THREE (3rd Nov) - Experiencing Space Chair: Mar Gonzalez-Franco (Microsoft Research) Session One: Theories of Visual Space Dhanraj Vishwanath (University of St Andrews): “Tripartite encoding of visual 3D space” Paul Linton (City, University of London): “New approaches to visual scale and visual shape” Session Two: Challenges for Virtual Reality Sarah Creem-Regehr (University of Utah): “Perception and Action in Virtual and Augmented Reality” Douglas Lanman (Facebook Reality Labs): TBC DAY FOUR (4th Nov) - Grasping the World Chair: Jody Culham (Western University) Session One: One Visual Stream or Two? Fulvio Domini (Brown University): “A novel non-probabilistic model of 3D cue integration explains both perception and action” Irene Sperandio (University of Trento): “Dissociations between perception and action in size-distance scaling” Session Two: 3D Space and Visual Impairment Ione Fine (University of Washington): “Do you hear what I see? How do early blind individuals experience object motion?” Ewa Niechwiej-Szwedo (University of Waterloo): “The role of binocular vision in the development of visuomotor control and performance of fine motor skills” Session Three: Panel Discussion Andrew Fitzgibbon (Microsoft), Matteo Carandini (University College London), Mar Gonzalez-Franco (Microsoft Research), and Jody Culham (Western University), share their thoughts on future directions for 3D vision. Organisers: Michael Morgan FRS (City, University of London), Paul Linton (City, University of London), Jenny Read (Newcastle University), Dhanraj Vishwanath (University of St Andrews), Sarah Creem-Regehr (University of Utah), Fulvio Domini (Brown University)

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Postdoctoral Fellow/Research Associate Position in Computational Neuroscience at Drexel University College of Medicine
by Ilya Rybak Oct. 7, 2021

Oct. 7, 2021

Postdoctoral Fellow/Research Associate Position in Computational Neuroscience at Drexel University College of Medicine Two Postdoctoral Fellow/Research Associate positions are available in the Computational Neuroscience Center (https://drexel.edu/medicine/about/departments/neurobiology-anatomy/research…) and the lab for Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience (https://drexel.edu/medicine/about/departments/neurobiology-anatomy/research…) at the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University (https://drexel.edu/medicine/about/departments/neurobiology-anatomy/) The qualified postdoc/research associate will join a team of computational neuroscientists focusing on studying and modeling different aspects of neural control of locomotion, including the organization and operation of spinal and supraspinal/brainstem neural circuits and their interactions with animal biomechanics during locomotion and steering. The modeling studies are performed in close, interactive collaboration with several leading laboratories in the USA, Canada, and France focusing on complementary experimental studies. The projects are supported by several grants from NIH and NSF. The studies involve the development of realistic computer models of neural circuits in the mammalian spinal cord and brainstem involved in control of locomotion and steering. The models will be integrated with biomechanical models of animals (mouse, rat, cat) and used (tested) for the control of quadrupedal robots imitating animal locomotion in open space. The successful candidate will closely collaborate with other computational and experimental neuroscientists: they will use experimental data to implement and refine the model and use the model to derive predictions that will then be tested experimentally by our collaborators. Essential Functions: * Work with existing and develop new computational models of spinal locomotor circuits * Integrate the neural and biomechanical models to simulate locomotor behavior * Use numerical optimization to optimize the integrated neuromechanical models * Use the models to derive experimentally testable predictions * Closely collaborate with experimental neuroscientists * Analyze kinematic and electrophysiological data * Write and submit research manuscripts * Present novel findings at national and international conferences Required Qualification include: * PhD in computer science, computational neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or a related field * Excellent programming skills (e.g., Python, C++) * Good written and verbal skills in English Previous experience in either (a) modeling of biological neurons and neural networks (spiking and/or rate based), and/or (b) modeling of biomechanics, and/or (c) machine learning is desirable. The qualified candidate will benefit from joining a well-funded research group that works in a dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary environment within the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. The Department provides an outstanding scientific environment for multidisciplinary training. Interactions and collaborations between labs and centers and between other departments are encouraged. Each position will be initially for one year with possible extension to 3-4 years. Salary will be commensurate with experience. To apply, please email a current CV and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Ilya Rybak (rybak(a)drexel.edu<mailto:rybak@drexel.edu>) The positions will remain posted until filled. ================================= Ilya A. Rybak, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy Drexel University College of Medicine 2900 Queen Lane Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA http://rybak-et-al.net

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Postdoc position in computational systems neuroscience, Voigts Lab at Janelia
by Jakob Voigts Oct. 7, 2021

Oct. 7, 2021

The Voigts Lab at HHMI Janelia Research Campus is recruiting postdocs. We'll work on how neocortex builds and uses models of the world to give animals complex cognitive abilities. The lab will specifically attempt to go beyond repeated stimulus-response associations, instead using complex, naturalistic spatial behaviors to study flexible cognition. We'll be able to throw significant technology at the problem of combining sufficient measurements with complex naturalistic behavior, but more importantly we'll have to overcome the challenge of modeling, analyzing, and ultimately learning from data when there are few or no trials to average over. We will use experimental approaches, such as designing tasks where mice make decisions based on incomplete knowledge of their environment, as well as developing new computational techniques to test circuit mechanisms in the context of unconstrained behaviours. We're part of the new Mechanistic Cognitive Neuroscience research area at Janelia, where there are unique resources for this type of work. We'll work closely with experimental, theoretical, methods, and machine learning researchers in and outside of Janelia to make this research program possible, collaborative, and fun. To apply, please send a cover letter, brief statement of research interests, and CV to jvoigts(a)mit.edu. Lab website: https://www.voigtslab.org/hiring Twitter ad: https://twitter.com/jvoigts/status/1443196881958363143

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Postdoc in Machine learning applied to brain activity data
by Erik Fransén Oct. 7, 2021

Oct. 7, 2021

Postdoc in Machine learning applied to brain activity data We are seeking a candidate with a PhD in one of the following areas Machine Learning, Computational Neuroscience, Computer Science or Physics. The project will entail analysis of neural data. We are currently analyzing data from Parkinson’s patients (eye-tracking, MEG) and extracting features to be used for disease diagnostics and prediction. The candidate will work in close collaboration with other postdocs and PIs in the consortium. dBRAIN is an interdisciplinary initiative to better understand neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. We combine brain imaging, machine learning, topological data analysis and computational modelling of biological neural networks at multiple scales to identify causal links among disease biomarkers and disease symptoms. This understanding should improve diagnosis, prediction of the disease progression and suggest better therapies. For more information about the position and to apply, visit the web site: https://www.kth.se/en/api/2.61673/what:job/jobID:432976/where:4/ Deadline for application: 01.Nov.2021 11:59 PM CET Prof. Erik Fransén Dept. of Computational Science and Technology School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science KTH Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm, Sweden https://www.kth.se/profile/erikf https://scholar.google.se/citations?user=VFtGuvcAAAAJ&hl=sv

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PhD position in theoretical neuroscience in Berlin
by Tilo Schwalger Oct. 6, 2021

Oct. 6, 2021

Dear all, we are looking for a PhD candidate in theoretical neuroscience on the topic "Dynamics and variability of structured spiking neural networks". Although the focus is on the theory side, the project also includes the analysis of neuronal population data and associated problems of data assimilation. Methods will be developed within the frameworks of stochastic processes, statistical physics and nonlinear dynamics. The PhD position in my group will be part of the vibrant computational neuroscience community at the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin and the Institute of Mathematics (Stochastics and Financial Mathematics) of TU Berlin. The successful candidate should have a degree in mathematics or physics, keen interest in computational neuroscience, expertise in analytical calculations, programming skills (C++ or C, Python or Julia, LaTeX), and excellent command of the English language, and good communication skills. Funding is provided for five years. Applications, including a letter of motivation, a CV, a current copy of academic transcripts, and a list of at least two potential referees should be sent by email to me: schwalger(a)math.tu-berlin.de The deadline for applications is October 15th 2021, however, later applications might also be considered. More information is available under: https://tub.stellenticket.de/en/offers/106202/?locale=en Kind regards, Tilo Schwalger -- Tilo Schwalger, PhD Assistant Professor 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: 726, phone: +49 (0)30 314-22698 http://page.math.tu-berlin.de/~schwalge tilo.schwalger(a)bccn-berlin.de

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Postdoc in Machine Learning at KTH, Stockholm, Sweden
by Tony Lindeberg Oct. 6, 2021

Oct. 6, 2021

Postdoc in Machine Learning Job description The division of Computational Science and Technology at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden is seeking a Postdoc in Machine Learning to handle scale-dependent image information in deep networks. In our research, we develop deep networks for processing image data that handle scaling transformations and other image transformations in a theoretically well-founded manner. Our research in this area comprises both theoretical modelling of the influence of image transformations on different architectures for deep networks and the experimental evaluation of such networks on benchmark datasets to explore their properties. The work also comprises the creation of new benchmark datasets, to enable characterization of properties of deep networks that are not covered by existing datasets. For examples of our previous work in this area, see https://www.kth.se/profile/tony/page/deep-networks Within the scope of this postdoc position, you are expected to work on and contribute to the research frontier regarding scale-covariant or scale-equivariant deep networks and/or deep networks parameterized in terms of Gaussian derivatives, on specific research topics that we choose together. The selected candidate will work closely together with the project leader Tony Lindeberg. For further information and information about to how to apply, see https://kth.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:432053/ Application deadline: November 1, 2021 [cid:FD2B374F-C472-4895-ADA7-B3CD5419FD22@csc.kth.se] Tony Lindeberg Professor of Computer Science — Computational Vision KTH Royal Institute of Technology Computational Brain Science Lab Division of Computational Science and Technology, CST SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden Phone: +46 8 790 6205 https://www.kth.se/profile/tony/

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Open position in Modeling at the Allen Institute
by Anton Arkhipov Oct. 6, 2021

Oct. 6, 2021

Are you excited about building bio-realistic, large-scale models of brain circuits? Do you enjoy collaborative, team science environment? Do you want to contribute to understanding fundamental mechanisms of brain function? If yes, this job opening might be for you! Check out this Scientist position in the lab of Anton Arkhipov at the Allen Institute in Seattle: https://alleninstitute.hrmdirect.com/employment/job-opening.php?req=1770679 The Scientist will build bio-realistic models and simulate the entrainment of neuronal populations by periodic sensory stimulation at different frequencies. This NIH BRAIN Initiative-sponsored project will leverage our expertise in modeling and unique data on cortex composition and connectivity at the Allen Institute, as well as experimental data from our collaborators at the group of Dr. Li-Huei Tsai at MIT. Relevant resources and publications: * https://portal.brain-map.org/explore/models/mv1-all-layers * https://portal.brain-map.org/explore/connectivity * Iaccarino et al., Nature (2016); Adaikkan et al., Neuron (2019); Martorell et al., Cell (2019) The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences and backgrounds. High-quality science can only be produced when it includes different perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role. Anton Arkhipov Associate Investigator T: 206.548.8414 E: antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org> alleninstitute.org<https://alleninstitute.org> brain-map.org

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multiple positions (postdoc/phd/lab technician ) available in Tuebingen, Germany (Human psychophysics, ERP/TMS, fMRI, zebrafish )
by Li Zhaoping Oct. 5, 2021

Oct. 5, 2021

Multiple job openings (PhD, Postdoc and Lab technician positions) are available in the working group/department of Li Zhaoping in the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics and/or University of Tuebingen. Please follow the links below for the open positions and application procedure. We look forward to receiving your application. • Lab Mechatronics / Programming Assistant https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/132 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/132> • PhD position in Human Psychophysics with TMS and/or EEG https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/147 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/147> • Postdoctoral position in Human Psychophysics with TMS and/or EEG https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/148 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/148> • Postdoctoral position in Human Psychophysics with High field and/or 3T fMRI https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/149 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/149> • PhD position in Zebrafish Neuroscience https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/150 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/150> • Postdoctoral position in Zebrafish Neuroscience https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/151 <https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/en/programs/151> Informal inquiries can be addressed to jobs.li(a)tuebingen.mpg.de <mailto:jobs.li@tuebingen.mpg.de>. More information can be obtained from http://www.lizhaoping.org/jobs.html

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Postdoc Position in Computational Psychiatry/Neuroscience @Columbia
by Kiyohito Iigaya Oct. 5, 2021

Oct. 5, 2021

The Laboratory for Computational Psychiatry and Translational Neuroscience at Columbia University (PI: Kyo Iigaya. https://www.iigayalab.com) is looking for a motivated postdoc to work on research in computational psychiatry, with a particular focus on understanding neural computation underlying maladaptive learning and decision-making under uncertainty. We are a new laboratory working at the interface between computational neuroscience and psychiatry. Our goal is to understand neural computation underlying learning and decision-making across species in normal and abnormal states, and to translate our findings to clinical applications in psychiatry. We use both theoretical and experimental tools, including reinforcement-learning models, (deep, recurrent) neural network models, web-based behavioral experiments, and fMRI. We work closely with basic and clinical laboratories across Columbia, including labs at the Psychiatry Department, the Center for Theoretical Neuroscience, and the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. The ideal candidate has a strong background in the computational modeling of behavioral and neural dynamics, as well as in data analyses using machine learning tools. Experiences in programming online experiments (e.g., Mturk) or administrating fMRI experiments are a plus. The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in computational neuroscience, physics, computer science, psychology, or related fields. Candidates should send a single PDF file to ki2151(a)columbia.edu with the subject 'Postdoc Application'. The PDF should contain: 1) a CV 2) a summary of previous/current research and a future plan, and 3) the names and contact details of three referees who will be willing to write reference letters. Informal inquiries about the position are encouraged. Application reviews will start on Oct. 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Best wishes, Kyo --------------------------------- Kiyohito Iigaya, Ph.D. ki2151(a)columbia.edu Assistant Professor of Neurobiology (in Psychiatry) Columbia University Irving Medical Center

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Postdoctoral competition leading to a professorship position in engineering at the University de Sherbrooke
by Jean Rouat Oct. 4, 2021

Oct. 4, 2021

Dear all, The University of Sherbrooke (Quebec, Canada), is currently seeking female doctoral candidates and young doctoral graduates for the Claire-Deschênes postdoctoral fellowship competition. This unique opportunity aims to promote postdoctoral training for women leading to a professorship position in engineering at the University de Sherbrooke. We encourage submissions in the emerging fields of systems-neuroscience, computational neuroscience, and neuromorphic computing. Candidates from other fields of Computer Engineering will also be considered such as software aspects for new architectures (distributed, heterogeneous, neuromorphic and quantum); artificial intelligence; standalone systems; information security; formal methods. Any other relevant field may be considered. The candidate will demonstrate the ability to teach several subjects (C and C++ programming systems, networking and programmable logic) and present their vision for teaching information technology to engineering students. Applications must be received no later than November 18, 2021. Details regarding the application procedure are available at: English: www.usherbrooke.ca/promo/genie/claire-deschenes-en/ French: www.usherbrooke.ca/promo/genie/claire-deschenes/ Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions. Jean Rouat, ing., Ph.D. Full Prof. ECE Dept. App. Comp. Computer Science Dept. Member Institut interdisciplinaire d’innovation technologique - 3IT, https://www.usherbrooke.ca/3it/en/ Associate Member Institut Quantique, https://www.usherbrooke.ca/iq/ Faculty of Engineering, 2500 boul. université Sherbrooke, Québec, J1K 2R1 Member of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Music Media and Technology McGill Schulich School of Music, 527 Sherbrooke Street West Montréal, Québec, H3A 1E3 https://www.cirmmt.org Jean.Rouat(a)usherbrooke.ca https://www.gel.usherbrooke.ca/rouat https://www.gel.usherbrooke.ca/necotis https://www.usherbrooke.ca/recherche/specialistes/?getSpecialist=369656&pag… https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=LQVQJ50AAAAJ&view_op=list_w…

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Last call - Register for free - ISRC Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI Autumn School (ISRC-CN3)
by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt Oct. 3, 2021

Oct. 3, 2021

LAST CALL: Register for FREE and attend our ISRC Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI Autumn School (ISRC-CN3) at the following link: https://store.ulster.ac.uk/product-catalogue/faculty-of-computing-engineeri… Student bursaries are available - please state this when registering. This Autumn School (25-29 October) is organised by our Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Ulster University, Magee campus. More details can be found here: https://sites.google.com/view/isrc-cn3/home Please share this with your contacts to help promote the event. If you have any further queries about this event, please contact KongFatt Wong-Lin (k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk<mailto:k.wong-lin@ulster.ac.uk>). This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

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Faculty Position in Mathematical Biology at the University of Pittsburgh
by Chengcheng Huang Oct. 3, 2021

Oct. 3, 2021

*The Department of Mathematics at the University of Pittsburgh* invites applications for *a tenure-track faculty position at the Assistant Professor level in the area of Mathematical Biology (including computational neuroscience)* to begin in the fall term of 2022, pending budgetary approval. We seek outstanding candidates with expertise in developing and applying mathematical methods to address biological questions, who will complement and enhance our existing strength in this area. We are dedicated to the mutual success of our faculty and students in our research and education enterprise. The University of Pittsburgh is an active center for interdisciplinary research in the life sciences, offering exciting opportunities for collaborations across departments as well as with our highly ranked medical school and nearby Carnegie Mellon University. The University is currently ranked third in the nation in total NIH funding. Successful candidates will have a Ph.D. in Mathematics or another quantitative field and should demonstrate substantial research accomplishment and dedication to teaching. Review of applications will begin on *November 15, 2021*, and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants can apply online at: *https://www.join.pitt.edu/* <https://www.join.pitt.edu/> (under Faculty Positions, Keyword search for Mathematical Biology or Mathematics). Candidates should submit (a) a cover letter, (b) a CV, (c) a statement of research accomplishments and future plans, (d) a brief description of teaching experience and interests, and (e) a brief description of how your research, teaching or service demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Applicants should also have (f) at least three letters of reference emailed to math(a)pitt.edu by November 15, 2021. Any questions about the application process can be directed to Dana Freund at daf125(a)pitt.edu. The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is committed to building and fostering a culturally diverse environment, so the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in support of a diverse community is essential. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity, and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

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COSYNE 2022: Call for workshop proposals
by Tomas Hromadka Oct. 1, 2021

Oct. 1, 2021

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2022 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 17 - 20 March 2022 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 21 - 22 March 2022 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 20 November 2021. 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: 15 October 2021 Workshop pre-proposal deadline: 15 October 2021 Travel grant submission opens: 01 November 2021 Workshop proposal deadline: 12 November 2021 Abstract submission deadline: 20 November 2021 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: Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) and Srdjan Ostojic (Ecole Normale Superieure Paris) Program Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU Munich) and Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Workshop Chairs: Anna Schapiro (U Penn) and Blake Richards (McGill) Tutorial Chair: Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai) DEIA Committee: Bianca Jones Martin (Columbia), Gabrielle Gutierrez (Columbia), and Stefano Recanatesi (U Washington) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Bob Wilson (U Arizona) Fundraising Chair: Michael Long (NYU) Social Media Chair: Grace Lindsay (Columbia) Poster Design: Maja Bialon PROGRAM COMMITTEE Laura Busse (U Munich) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Athena Akrami (UCL) Omri Barak (Technion) Brice Bathellier (Paris) Bing Brunton (U Washington) Yoram Burak (Hebrew University) SueYeon Chung (Columbia) Christine Constantinople (NYU) Victor de Lafuente (UNAM Mexico) Jan Drugowitsch (Harvard) Alexander Ecker (Göttingen) Tatiana Engel (Cold Spring Harbor) Annegret Falkner (Princeton) Kevin Franks (Duke) Jens Kremkow (Berlin) Andrew Leifer (Princeton) Sukbin Lim (Shanghai) Scott Linderman (Stanford) Emilie Mace (MPI Neurobiology) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL Lausanne) Ida Momennejad (Microsoft) Jill O'Reilly (Oxford) Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) Adrien Peyrache (McGill Montréal) Yiota Porazi (FORCE) Nathalie Rochefort (Edinburgh) Christina Savin (NYU) Daniela Vallentin (MPI Ornithology) Brad Wyble (Penn State) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org ----------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS ----------------------------------------------------- A series of workshops will be held after the main Cosyne meeting. The goal is to provide an informal forum for the discussion of important research questions and challenges. Controversial issues, open problems, comparisons of competing approaches, and alternative viewpoints are encouraged. The overarching goal of all workshops should be the integration of empirical and theoretical approaches, in an environment that fosters collegial discussion and debate. - There will be 6-10 workshops/day, running in parallel. - Each workshop is expected to draw between 20 and 100 people. - The workshops will be split into morning (9.30am-12.30pm) and afternoon (3.30pm-6.30pm) sessions. - Workshops will be held at the Hotel Cascais Miragem. - Workshop speakers do *not* receive free registration, travel expenses, or accommodation for either the main meeting or the workshop sessions. Organizers should let invited speakers know that they are expected to pay for workshop registration fees Workshop organizer responsibilities include coordinating workshop participation and content, scheduling all speakers, submitting a final schedule for the workshop program, and moderating the discussion. Organizers can, but need not, be speakers. One complimentary (free) organizer registration is provided per workshop. For workshops with two organizers, the free registration can be given to one of the organizers or split evenly between them. Any required multimedia resources beyond a projector, screen, and microphones will be the responsibility of the workshop organizers to coordinate with Cosyne and Hotel staff. EVALUATION CRITERIA As stated above, the goal of Cosyne workshops is to provide an interactive, informal forum for discussions. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to: sensory processing; motor planning and control; functional neural circuits; motivation, reward and decision making; learning and memory; adaptation and plasticity; neural coding; neural circuitry and network models; and methods in computational or systems neuroscience. Workshop proposals will be evaluated by the Cosyne Workshop Chairs, and a subset of the proposals will be selected. The proposals will be evaluated according to the following six metrics (which will be weighted equally): 1. Relevance to the Cosyne community 2. Integration of experimental and theoretical issues 3. Current interest in the topic in the scientific community 4. Potential for new research directions and interactions to emerge 5. Distinctive scope/approach compared to other workshops (including previous years’) 6. Diversity and equity in the proposed speakers PRE-PROPOSALS - Deadline 15 October 2021 In an effort to coordinate submissions, workshop organizers are *strongly encouraged* to submit a pre-proposal by *15 October 2021* Submission instructions for workshop (pre)-proposals are available at Cosyne.org -> Workshops. Pre-proposals may be shared among submitters to reduce topical overlap or facilitate merging of workshops. Pre-proposals are not mandatory, but workshops with a pre-proposal will have priority. In order to foster discussion within Workshops and reduce overlap between workshops, organizers should inform invited speakers that a speaker can take part in no more than two Workshops. The pre-proposals should include: - Name(s) and email address(es) of the organizers (no more than 2 organizers per session, please). A primary contact should be designated. - A title. - A brief description of 1) what the workshop will address and accomplish, 2) why the topic is of interest, 3) who is the targeted group of participants. - Names of potential invitees, with indication of confirmed speakers. Preference will be given to workshops with confirmed speakers. - Proposed workshop length (1 or 2 days). Most workshops will be limited to a single day. If you think your workshop needs two days, please explain why. - A brief resume of the workshop organizer(s) along with a short list of workshop-relevant publications (about half a page total). Experience has shown that the best discussions during a workshop are those that arise spontaneously. A good way to foster these is to have short talks and long question periods (e.g. 30+15 minutes), and have plenty of breaks. We recommend keeping the number of talks small (i.e., fewer than 10 talks per day). FULL PROPOSALS - Deadline 12 November 2021 The full proposals should include the list of confirmed speakers in addition to all of the components required for a pre-proposal. WORKSHOP COSTS Detailed registration costs, etc, will be available at www.cosyne.org. Please note: Cosyne does *not* provide travel funding for workshop speakers. Organizers should let invited speakers know that they are expected to pay for workshop registration fees. Participants are encouraged to register early, in order to qualify for discounted registration rates. One complimentary (free) organizer registration is provided per workshop. For workshops with two organizers, the free registration can be given to one of the organizers or split evenly between them. COSYNE 2022 WORKSHOP CHAIRS Anna Schapiro (U Penn) and Blake Richards (McGill) COSYNE WORKSHOPS CONTACT workshops [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 -> Mailing lists for details.

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Announcing the 3rd Brain-Computer Interface Un-Conference (3rd BCI-UC)
by Philipp Raggam Oct. 1, 2021

Oct. 1, 2021

Dear Colleagues, We cordially invite you to the *3rd Brain-Computer Interface Un-Conference* (BCI-UC) on*January 27th, 2022, from 03:00 pm to 09:00 pm (CET)* [1]! The BCI-UC is an online un-conference that provides rapid dissemination of novel research results in the BCI community. Participants can *submit abstracts* to apply for *20 minutes presentation* slots. Abstracts are not reviewed by a program committee. Rather, all registered participants can vote on which of the submitted abstracts they would like to see presented at the un-conference. Because the BCI-UC does not publish conference proceedings, submitted abstracts can report novel as well as already published work. *Registration and attendance are free of charge*. Presentations of the 1st and 2nd BCI-UC can be re-watched at [2] and [3]. The 3rd BCI-UC will feature *keynotes* by *Cynthia Chestek* (University of Michigan) [4] and *Thorsten Zander* (TU Brandenburg) [5]. *Registration and abstract submission open on November 1st, 2021* [1]. Abstract submissions are text-only. The length and format of the submissions are up to the authors - use whatever format you consider best for attracting up-votes!*Submission closes on December 3rd, 2021 at 11:59 pm*. *Voting on submitted abstracts begins on December 6th, 2021, and closes on December 12th, 2021 at 11:59 pm*. We will invite the authors of the top-voted abstracts to present at the un-conference. *All presentations will be streamed via Crowdcast* [6] and can be accessed free of charge. Join us in supporting this novel community-driven dissemination of research results! The BCI-UC committee: Moritz Grosse-Wentrup Anja Meunier Philipp Raggam Jiachen Xu Links: [1] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/3rd-bci-uc/ [2] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/1st-bci-uc/ [3] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/2nd-bci-uc/ [4] https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=36sxAZEAAAAJ&hl=de [5] https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=0E49HxYAAAAJ [6] https://www.crowdcast.io/ -- DI Philipp Raggam, BSc Research Group Neuroinformatics Faculty of Computer Science University of Vienna Hörlgasse 6, A-1090 Wien, Austria

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New Job Posting | Scientific Software Engineer (Max Planck)
by Tanya Brown Sept. 30, 2021

Sept. 30, 2021

The *Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics* in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, investigates the attentional, cognitive, and affective mechanisms of aesthetic perception and evaluation. The *Department of Neuroscience *invites applications for a *Scientific Software Engineer (m/f/x)* As part of an external funded project in collaboration with Dan Marcus, Wash. U; Sean Hill, CAMH; and members of the Cogitate Consortium, we are searching for a Scientific Data Engineer to contribute to the development of generic, cross-domain metadata management framework to foster the reuse of open datasets as well as reproducibility of cognitive neuroscience datasets i.e., metadata describing the experimental context of studies employing fMRI, MEEG, and ECoG. The successful candidate will also heavily contribute to the development of data infrastructure including storage, streaming and analysis tools for reproducible science based on the BIDS standard. Efforts will be devoted to develop tools for an efficient organization and exploration of raw and processed datasets. The position is ideal for networking in the open science community as it includes interaction with the open (neuro)science community; and is a unique opportunity for someone keen to contribute to the development of open-science and large-scale collaborations and aiming to contribute to community efforts and dissemination. *Your tasks in interdisciplinary research projects focus on:* · Review of existing approaches and tools, Requirement specification, Conceptual design, blueprint of implementation, Proof-of-concept application to Cognitive Neuroscience · Presentation and publication of the results · Exchange and networking within national (NFDI, MPDL) and international (RDA, EOSC) initiatives · Developing, testing and implementing scientific software i.e., standardized neuroscience data acquisition, reproducible analysis pipelines and data storage for open science building on the BIDS standard · Providing training and support for students and postdocs at varied levels of competence in modern, high quality, open science/source coding practices · Providing support and training for data management · Being the lab’s interface with the Institute’s core IT team *Your Profile:* · Completed university degree in natural sciences, engineering or a similar field (e.g., Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Informatics, Neuroscience) · Solid programming skills preferably in Python and/or C++ · Experience with Python libraries (e.g., NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, and pandas) is beneficial · Experience with software development (e.g., version control with Git) and data organization (e.g., data bases with SQL and MySQL) is preferable · Knowledge of relevant metadata standards and semantic techniques are beneficial (including W3C, schema.org, RDF, JSON-LD, etc) · Interest in interdisciplinary projects and cognitive and systems neuroscience · Familiarity or experience with scientific research methods · High degree of self-organization and independent work · Team spirit, reliability, and sense of responsibility · Complete spoken and written fluency in English; knowledge of German is a plus · Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience in any of these domains: BIDS standards, Open science tools, neuroimaging techniques and data analysis (especially fMRI and MEG/EEG) and/or XNAT We offer an exciting interdisciplinary field of engagement in an international scientific environment. The Institute is located in an attractive location with excellent infrastructure in Frankfurt’s Westend neighbourhood. You can expect a modern equipped workplace with flexible working hours (some remote working is possible) and the Opportunity to participate in (international) conferences and project meetings. Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through direct interactions with the group of Dan Marcus and Sean Hill, as well as researchers forming part of the Cogitate Consortium (e.g., Christof Koch, Gabriel Kreiman, Ole Jensen, Sylvain Baillet among many others) is possible. The position *will begin earliest on December 1, 2021* and is initially limited to two years, with the possibility of an extension pending funding approval. Salary is paid in accordance with the collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD Bund), according to your qualifications and experience. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We are also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in our workforce. Therefore, applicants of all backgrounds are welcome. Your application should include: your detailed CV (including details of your educational background and skills); a cover letter that explains why this position interests you and how your skills and abilities are suitable; copies of relevant degrees and/or certificates. Please send these materials all together in a single PDF file, *before November 1, 2021*, by e-mail to job(a)ae.mpg.de using the code *“TWCF Engineer”* in the subject. Please feel free to contact job(a)ae.mpg.de or Tanya Brown < tanya.brown(a)ae.mpg.de <tanya.brown(a)ae.mpg.de?subject=TWCF%20Engineer>> if you have any questions about the position.

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PhD position in Numerical and Computational Analysis for Mathematical Neuroscience
by Avitabile, D. Sept. 27, 2021

Sept. 27, 2021

Below you can find the details of a PhD position at Radboud University (The Netherlands) on Numerical and Computational Analysis for Mathematical Neuroscience, under the supervision of Prof. Gabriel Lord. The deadline for applications is the 29th of October 2021. https://www.ru.nl/english/working-at/vacature/details-vacature/?recid=11705… Daniele Avitabile Associate Professor in Applied Mathematics Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam www.danieleavitabile.com

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Online Workshop: 30/09 - 01/10/2021 "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting"
by Zélie Tournoud Sept. 27, 2021

Sept. 27, 2021

Dear colleagues, The European Institute for Theroretical Neurosience (EITN) is happy to invite you all to its next online workshop taking place online this week from Wednesday to Friday. It is open to everyone upon registration. You will find all the information at the end of this email. Kind regards, Zélie, for the EITN team *_____* **** * * *Workshop on "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting"* /Organized by Anton Arkhipov (Allen Institute, Seattle), Gaute Einevoll (NMBU/University of Oslo)/ *_Dates:_*Wednesday 29 September – Friday October 1st *_Time:_*5PM – 9.15PM (CET) <https://www.eitn.org/images/events/TMNNM-II-MTaMF_Flyer.pdf> Online workshop. Free to attend, but registration is mandatory. *REGISTER HERE.* <https://cnrs.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_saMXfg31Roe4tqHbWtTdFg> *https://cnrs.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_saMXfg31Roe4tqHbWtTdFg* *_Abstract:_* Starting with the work of Hodgkin, Huxley, Cole, Rall, Katz, Eccles and others in the 1950s and 1960s, we have a reasonably good understanding of the biophysical principles by which single neurons operate. For neural circuits the understanding is much more limited. Most network studies have considered stylized models with a few populations of identical neurons and focused on explaining a particular experimental phenomenon. However, real neural networks consist of a variety of neuron types and have structured synaptic connections. Furthermore, real networks typically perform multiple functions and can be characterized by a variety of readouts from various measurement modalities, including spiking activity, local field potentials, and others. How can we move towards multipurpose models that incorporate the true biological complexity of neural circuits and faithfully reproduce multiple observables in many different situations? The first workshop on the topic was arranged in August 2020 (see https://alleninstitute.org/what-we-do/brain-science/events-training/allen-i… <https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Falleninst…> for program and videos of talks). In this second (also virtual) workshop in the series we will focus on two key aspects of the overall endeavor: model testing and model fitting. Multipurpose network models mimicking real neural circuits will contain numerous model parameters that must be optimized. Efficient methods for fitting of model parameters to experimental data are thus needed. Further, the candidate models must be systematically tested against a variety of experimental data, requiring development of commonly accepted benchmarks and test suites. In the workshop these methodological challenges will be addressed from a variety of angles. *_Confirmed speakers:_*__ Anton Arkhipov (Allen Institute) Marcus Covert (Stanford) Sharon Crook (Arizona State U.) James DiCarlo (MIT) Gaute Einevoll (NMBU/U. Oslo) Julijana Gjorgjeva (Max Planck Institute and TUM) Peder Jedlicka (U. Giessen) Szabolcs Kali (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary) Arvind Kumar (KTH Stockholm) Jacob Macke (U. Tübingen) Stefan Mihalas (Allen Institute) Aaron Milstein (Rutgers U.) Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai) Atle Rimehaug (U. Oslo) Frances Skinner (Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, and U. Toronto) Carsen Stringer (Janelia) Kristin Tøndel (NMBU) * * *Wednesday, September 29, 2021* *Time (PDT)* *Time (CEST)* *Speaker* *Affiliation* *Title* 8:00 am – 8:15 am 5:00 pm – 5:15 pm Gaute Einevoll NMBU/U. Oslo Introduction 8:15 am – 8:55 am 5:15 pm – 5:55 pm Jacob Macke U. Tübingen *Keynote* Simulation-based inference: Bridging the gap between mechanistic models and machine learning. 8:55 am – 9:25 am 5:55 pm – 6:25 pm Aaron Milstein Rutgers U. Nested parallel simulation and multi-objective optimization of neuronal cell and circuit models 9:25 am – 9:40 am 6:25 pm – 6:40 pm Break 9:40 am – 10:10 am 6:40 pm – 7:10 pm Atle Rimehaug U. Oslo Enhancing model constraints by utilizing current source densities 10:10 am – 10:40 am 7:10 pm – 7:40 pm Kristin Tøndel NMBU Facilitating optimization using metamodelling 10:40 am – 10:50 am 7:40 pm – 7:50 pm Break 10:50 am – 11:20 am 7:50 pm – 8:20 pm Frances Skinner Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, and University of Toronto Clarity in model development and goals leads to model linkages and biological insights 11:20 am – 12:10 pm 8:20 pm – 9:10 pm _Panel debate – All participants of the day._ *Thursday, September 30, 2021* *Time (PDT)* *Time (CEST)* *Speaker* *Affiliation* *Title* 8:00 am – 8:15 am 5:00 pm – 5:15 pm Anton Arkhipov Allen Institute Introduction 8:15 am – 8:55 am 5:15 pm – 5:55 pm James DiCarlo MIT *Keynote* Reverse Engineering Visual Intelligence 8:55 am – 9:25 am 5:55 pm – 6:25 pm Sharon Crook Arizona State U. Testing the Data-driven Model 9:25 am – 9:40 am 6:25 pm – 6:40 pm Break 9:40 am – 10:10 am 6:40 pm – 7:10 pm Szabolcs Kali Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary Systematic construction and evaluation of models of rodent hippocampal neurons 10:10 am – 10:40 am 7:10 pm – 7:40 pm Peter Jedlicka U. Giessen Building consistent and robust models of hippocampal granule cells and CA1 pyramidal cells 10:40 am – 10:50 am 7:40 pm – 7:50 pm Break 10:50 am – 11:20 am 7:50 pm – 8:20 pm Stefan Mihalas Allen Institute Computing with a mess: How nonstationary, heterogeneous and noisy components help the brain’s computational power 11:20 am – 12:10 pm 8:20 pm – 9:10 pm _Panel debate – All participants of the day._ *Friday, October 1, 2021* *Time (PDT)* *Time (CEST)* *Speaker* *Affiliation* *Title* 8:00 am – 8:40 am 5:00 pm – 5:40 pm Markus Covert Stanford *Special lecture* Simultaneous cross-evaluation of heterogeneous E. coli datasets via mechanistic simulation 8:40 am – 9:20 am 5:40 pm – 6:20 pm Kanaka Rajan Mount Sinai *Keynote* Data-constrained neural network models of adaptive learning in the brain 9:20 am – 9:40 am 6:20 pm – 6:40 pm Break 9:40 am – 10:10 am 6:40 pm – 7:10 pm Julijana Gjorgjeva Max Planck Institute and TUM Biologically plausible learning in developing networks 10:10 am – 10:40 am 7:10 pm – 7:40 pm Carsen Stringer Janelia Rastermap: Extracting structure from high-dimensional neural data 10:40 am – 10:50 am 7:40 pm – 7:50 pm Break 10:50 am – 11:20 am 7:50 pm – 8:20 pm Arvind Kumar KTH Stockholm Structure and activity dynamics relationship in biological neuronal networks: Measurements and models 11:20 am – 12:10 pm 8:20 pm – 9:10 pm _Panel debate – All participants of the day._

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Brain Mechanisms: Linking Cognitive Phenomena to Neuron Activity
by Andrew Coward Sept. 23, 2021

Sept. 23, 2021

Dear colleagues, I would like to bring to your attention a book that has just been published. The book, Brain Mechanisms: Linking Cognitive Phenomena to Neuron Activity, describes how to understand higher cognition in terms of anatomical, physiological and chemical processes in the brain using techniques based on how we understand the operation of complex electronic systems. A brain has absolutely no resemblance to an electronic system. Nevertheless, how we go about understanding complex electronic systems has some important lessons for how to go about understanding the brain. Brains have huge numbers of neurons, and understanding obviously cannot be based on simultaneously imagining the ongoing activity of all these neurons. Some way must be found to organize all this information in a way humans can handle. A complex computing system can have hundreds of billions of components like transistors. Engineers could not design such systems by simultaneously imagining the activity of all the components that could be involved. Rather, the design information is organized in such a way that all design tasks are within the mental bandwidth of a human designer. The techniques to achieve this involve hierarchies of description, carefully managed use of approximation, and the ubiquitous use of just two types of information process: instructions and data read/writes. Natural selection pressures have resulted in brain architectures to which analogous techniques for organizing information can be applied. The pressures have resulted in the ubiquitous presence of two types of information processes in the brain, condition definition/detections and behavioural recommendation definition/integrations. These information processes are completely different from those in computing systems, but they allow creation of analogous hierarchies of description. Such hierarchies of description make it possible to achieve an intuitively satisfying understanding of human memory, consciousness and self-awareness in terms of the activity of the billions of neurons. A blog touches on some of these ideas. The book is available at Amazon.comDownload a sample chapterVideo of recent lecture at Florida State University Andrew CowardAustralian National UniversityCanberrahttps://researchers.anu.edu.au/researchers/coward-a

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PhD's and Postdoc positions at UVa
by Mario Negrello Sept. 22, 2021

Sept. 22, 2021

Posting on behalf of Jorge Mejias: Dear all, I hope things are going well for all of you. I’m writing you because I’m looking for candidates with a strong quantitative background for a PhD position and a postdoc position at my lab, both for working on computational models of large-scale brain networks. If you know of anybody in your surroundings who might be interested, would you mind sharing this information with them? I think it’s especially important for the postdoctoral position, as the deadline is approaching (Sept 30) and we still don’t have a lot of candidates. The PhD position is focused on studying multisensory integration under noisy or uncertain conditions. The researcher will design and study computational models of large-scale brain networks of the mouse for this purpose, constraining the models with anatomical data and comparing the predictions with electrophysiological recordings from local colleagues at the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience group at the UvA. The models will later inform other colleagues, also involved in the project, to build neuro-inspired algorithms for sensor fusion in self-driving vehicles and drones. More information and application procedure (with deadline October 15) can be found here: https://www.uva.nl/en/content/vacancies/2021/09/21-734-phd-position-in-comp… <https://www.uva.nl/en/content/vacancies/2021/09/21-734-phd-position-in-comp…> The postdoc position aims to uncover the mechanisms behind compulsive behavior. The researcher will build computational models of large-scale brain networks of mouse and human, using anatomical and electrophysiological data to constrain and test the models. This is a collaboration with Ingo Willuhn at the NIN, who will provide mouse electrophysiological and human clinical data to test the models for healthy and OCD subjects. The final goal is to use the model to investigate translational biomarkers for compulsive disorders. More information and application procedure (deadline September 30) can be found in this link: https://www.uva.nl/shared-content/uva/en/vacancies/2021/09/21699-postdoctor… <https://www.uva.nl/shared-content/uva/en/vacancies/2021/09/21699-postdoctor…> Thanks a lot for the help with spreading this around! Best, Jorge

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Call for Teaching Assistants for the Cape Town Imbizo, August 11th to September 4th 2022. Apply by October 11
by Tim Vogels Sept. 22, 2021

Sept. 22, 2021

Dear Colleagues, We are looking for teaching assistants for the IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo (#isiCNI), a computational neuroscience summer school held in Cape Town, South Africa. We are looking for post-doctoral or advanced PhD researchers to join our team as Teaching Assistants (TAs) for the #isiCNI2022 in August 2022. Please send your application to to isicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com>. Include 1) CV and a 2) cover letter with a short motivational statement for why you would be a good fit, and what your favourite topics would be for teaching tutorials and supervising student projects. Additionally, 3) please provide the email address of one reference. We will start assessing applications on 11 October 2021. About the Imbizo: The school hosts 31 students for an amazing 25 days of lectures, tutorials, projects and parties. All this takes place on Noordhoek beach, between the mountain and the ocean. It's a spectacular location. The dates for the isiCNI2022 are August 11th to September 4th 2022. The Imbizo is a special experience, with students being totally immersed in academic, social, touristic and cultural activities, and has resulted in student and TA groups from previous schools becoming very close, personally and scientifically. This is fantastic, as a major goal of the isiCNI project is to help young African researchers grow their academic peer and friend group. About being a TA: Each TA runs one afternoon tutorial in the first week of the school, which they design themselves. Each TA will teach a different topic, which the TA's choose among themselves, to provide students with a broad exposure to problems and methods in computational neuroscience. Each TA is also assigned 5 students to supervise for project work during the last 2 weeks of the school. TAs will be asked to help processing student applications. TAs are integral in helping run the school. In addition to academic support, they foster good social interactions and academic discussions among students, and they help 'shy' students meet faculty. They also act as 'social glue’, helping to notice and support students who may be feeling ill, not fitting in socially, or generally having difficulties. To fulfil these roles, TAs need to be at all school meals and activities. What we provide: We cover a direct as possible, economy class ticket to Cape Town, as well as all board and lodging during the school. In addition, TAs will receive a cash budget for 'hosting purposes' during the school (e.g. for buying some beverages/ice-creams for students, train tickets, etc.). We also provide you with life-long memories of one of the most beautiful places on earth. I'm interested, how do I apply: If you think you would like to join us for this amazing experience, please send us a brief CV (2 or 3 pages is fine) to isicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com>. Please include (as a cover letter or in your email) a short motivational statement for why you would be a good fit, and what your favourite topics would be for teaching tutorials and supervising student projects. We will start assessing applications on 11 October 2021. A call for student application will follow soon. We hope to hear from you soon! Let us know if you have any questions. Thanks and regards Demba Ba, Peter E. Latham, Joseph Raimondo, Emma Vaughan, and Tim Vogels IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo Committee 2022 #isicni2022 Twitter: @isicni

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"Brains Through Time" reading club
by Paul Cisek Sept. 20, 2021

Sept. 20, 2021

Dear all, I would like to bring to your attention the Brains Through Time Reading Club I am co-organizing with people from the Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante. As the name implies, the idea is to review the book Brains Through Time<https://oxford.universitypressscholarship.com/view/10.1093/oso/978019512568…>, by Georg Striedter<https://www.faculty.uci.edu/profile.cfm?faculty_id=3006> and Glenn Northcutt<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Northcutt>. It is a masterful synthesis of much what is known about brain evolution, and I believe it offers great insights to anyone interested in a broad understanding of how the brain produces behavior. We will dedicate a ~90 minute session to each of the 7 chapters. The first session will be on the 6th of October (6pm CEST / 12 EST) and will include the participation of Georg Striedter<https://www.faculty.uci.edu/profile.cfm?faculty_id=3006> (one of the authors), Luis Puelles<https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nIoLKVAAAAAJ&hl=en> and Paul Cisek<https://cisek.org/pavel/>. If you are interested, please visit our web site<https://sites.google.com/view/bbtreadingclub/home> for more information and to register! Paul Cisek, PhD Département de neurosciences Université de Montréal Physical: 2960 chemin de la tour, local 4117 Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 CANADA Mailing: CP 6128 Succursale centre-ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7 CANADA e-mail: paul.cisek(a)gmail.com<mailto:paul.cisek@gmail.com> Web: www.cisek.org/pavel<http://www.cisek.org/pavel>

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[CFP] MDPI Molecules (IF: 4.411, ISSN: 1420-3049) - Special Issue "Practical Aspects of Molecular Communications"
by Murat Kuşcu Sept. 20, 2021

Sept. 20, 2021

MDPI Molecules (IF: 4.411, ISSN: 1420-3049) Special Issue on Practical Aspects of Molecular Communications https://www.mdpi.com/journal/molecules/special_issues/molecular_communicati… --------------------------- CALL FOR PAPERS The Internet of Bio-Nano Things (IoBNT) is an emerging technology that aims to extend our connectivity to nanoscale and biological environments with collaborative nanonetworks of artificial nanomachines and biological entities integrated into the Internet infrastructure. To enable the IoBNT and its groundbreaking applications, such as continuous intrabody health monitoring, it is imperative to devise low-complexity nanoscale communication techniques suitable for the envisioned nanomachines of simple architectures. The most promising communication technology for realizing the IoBNT is Molecular Communications (MC), as it ubiquitously manifests itself in many complex biological systems in the Universe, and thus, stands as one of the most common communication modalities, optimized from many aspects as a result of billions of years of evolutionary advancement. Making use of this naturally existing technology requires understanding its foundations through our existing modeling and analysis tools. This quest, which started almost 15 years ago, has received increasing attention from ICT researchers, which have been overly inspired by conventional electromagnetic communication technologies in their approach to this radically different paradigm. These theoretical approaches, however, have not always come with sufficient physical relevance. Currently, this emerging field has come to a critical turning point, as many researchers have started to report on initial MC experiments following different approaches and using different materials, while consistently pointing out a discrepancy between the obtained experimental results and the past theoretical work. This reveals the need to rethink the previous efforts and come up with new interdisciplinary strategies, thus building practical MC techniques and developing feasible MC system components, experimental testbeds, and prototypes in order to close the gap between theory and practice, and expedite the transfer of this emerging technology to the market. Among the challenges stated above, this Special Issue is particularly focused on the practical aspects of MC. Therefore, we are calling for technical papers that report on new research with the potential to move this field forward towards its practical applications, as well as surveys/tutorials focusing on the practical challenges of MC research. Hence, its scope encompasses a wide range of interdisciplinary research topics, with some examples listed as follows: ** The physical design, modeling, and implementation of MC system components (e.g., transmitter, receiver, channel); ** The design and implementation of MC testbeds; ** Practical and low-complexity MC methods (e.g., modulation, detection, channel estimation, synchronization, coding methods); ** The testing and validation of MC transceiver/channel models and MC methods; ** Applications of microfluidics, biosensors, and nanomaterials for MC system design; ** Bio-cyber interfaces between MC networks and conventional macroscale networks; ** Synthetic biology-based MC transceiver architectures; ** Optimization of ligand-receptor interactions for MC; ** Biocompatibility and co-existence challenges; ** Energy harvesting and power transfer techniques for MC networks; ** The design and demonstration of MC applications (e.g., those in healthcare, agriculture, biocomputing). --------------------------- Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 December 2021 --------------------------- Guest Editors Murat Kuscu, Koc University, Turkey (mkuscu(a)ku.edu.tr) Sasitharan Balasubramaniam, TSSG/Walton Institute, Waterford Institute of Technology (sasi.bala(a)waltoninstitute.ie) Kerstin Lenk, Graz University of Technology, Austria (kerstin.lenk(a)tugraz.at ) Ergin Dinc, University of Cambridge, UK (ed502(a)cam.ac.uk) Michael Barros, University of Essex, UK (m.barros(a)essex.ac.uk) Bige D. Unluturk, Michigan State University, USA (unluturk(a)msu.edu) --------------------------- Paper submission Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All papers will be peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website. Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI. Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions. --------------------------- Additional information: Please visit the MDPI Molecules Special Issue webpage at: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/molecules/special_issues/molecular_communicati… Inquiries can be addressed to Ms. Emity Wang at: emity.wang(a)mdpi.com, molecules(a)mdpi.com

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New "Developing Minds" global online lecture series; September 30: Pierre-Yves Oudeyer
by Jochen Triesch Sept. 19, 2021

Sept. 19, 2021

What: New bi-monthly "Developing Minds" global online lecture series; inaugural lecture by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, INRIA, Bordeaux Sud-Ouest, France on "Developmental AI: machines that learn like children and help children learn better" When: Thursday, September 30, 13:00 UTC Where: online via zoom; please register at: https://sites.google.com/view/developing-minds-series Background: In 1950, Alan Turing asked "Instead of trying to produce a programme to simulate the adult mind, why not rather try to produce one which simulates the child's?" Today, over 70 years later, constructing a computer program that can learn like a child and that develops a human-like general intelligence is still considered a grand, if not the ultimate, challenge for artificial intelligence (AI). An interdisciplinary community of scientists from AI, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Engineering, and Neuroscience are tackling this grand challenge. In the Developing Minds global lecture series we showcase the progress being made. It is organized by the IEEE Technical Committee on Cognitive and Developmental Systems of the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society. The inaugural lecture by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer is entitled: "Developmental AI: machines that learn like children and help children learn better" Abstract: Current approaches to AI and machine learning are still fundamentally limited in comparison with the amazing learning capabilities of children. What is remarkable is not that some children become world champions in certains games or specialties: it is rather their autonomy, open-endedness, flexibility and efficiency at learning many everyday skills under strongly limited resources of time, computation and energy. And they do not need the intervention of an engineer for each new task (e.g. they do not need someone to provide a new task specific reward function or representation). I will present a research program, which I call Developmental AI, that studies models of open-ended development and learning. These models are used as tools to help us understand better how children learn, as well as to build machines that learn like children with applications in educational technologies, automated discovery, robotics and human-computer interaction. I will ground this research program into several fundamental ideas proposed by developmental psychologists: 1) the child is autotelic, setting its own goals and spontaneously exploring the world like a curious little scientist (e.g. Piaget, Berlyne); 2) intelligence develops in a social context, where language and culture are internalized to become cognitive tools (e.g. Vygostky and Bruner); 3) intelligence is embodied and develops through self-organization of the dynamical system formed by the brain-body-environment interactions (e.g. Thelen and Smith). I will show how, together with many colleagues and students, we have worked on operationalizing these ideas in computer and robotic models, and explain how this has enabled to advance child development understanding, open new possibilities for AI systems (including for recent language-guided intrinsically motivated Deep RL systems and for training more classical Deep RL systems to foster generalization), and led to applications now used by thousands of children in the world to help them learn (educational technologies). Speaker Bio: Dr. Pierre-Yves Oudeyer has been Research Director at Inria, France, and head of the Flowers lab (Inria, Univ. Bordeaux, Ensta ParisTech). Before, he has been a permanent researcher in Sony Computer Science Laboratory for 8 years (1999-2007). He studies models of open-ended development and learning, at the frontiers of AI and cognitive sciences. These models are used as tools to help us understand better how children learn, as well as to build machines that learn like children within the field of developmental artificial intelligence. He has been developing models of intrinsically motivated learning, pioneering curiosity-driven learning algorithms working in real world robots, and developed theoretical frameworks to understand better human curiosity and autonomous learning. He also studied mechanisms enabling machines and humans to discover, invent, learn and evolve language. He is also working on applications in educational technologies, automated discovery, video games, robotics and human-computer interaction. He received several prizes for his work in developmental AI and on the origins of language. In particular, he is laureate of the Inria-National Academy of Science young researcher prize in computer sciences, and of an ERC Starting Grant EXPLORERS. Finally, he is also working actively for the diffusion of science towards the general public, through the writing of popular science articles and participation to radio and TV programs as well as science exhibitions. Web: http://www.pyoudeyer.com and http://flowers.inria.fr Upcoming speakers: Linda B. Smith, Indiana University Joshua B. Tenenbaum, MIT Please visit https://sites.google.com/view/developing-minds-series/home for up-to-date information. -- Prof. Dr. Jochen Triesch Johanna Quandt Research Professor Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/~triesch/ Tel: +49 (0)69 798-47531 Fax: +49 (0)69 798-47611

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CFP - Annual Conference of Cognitive Science (ACCS8) - Jan 20--22, 2022, India
by Shyam Diwakar Sept. 18, 2021

Sept. 18, 2021

Dear All, As the local organizer, it is our pleasure to invite you to participate at ACCS8. Here's more details. ACCS8: Call for contributions 8th Annual Conference of Cognitive Science (ACCS8) Amrita University, India – 20 – 22 January 2022 https://www.amrita.edu/accs8 The 8th edition of ACCS, to be hosted by Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University), Kollam, India will be held virtually. List of our invited speakers, TPC and other info will soon be made available at https://www.amrita.edu/event/accs8 CONFERENCE TOPICS Like in our previous years, the ACCS8 conference is open to all topics with Cognitive Science as a discipline, and in various areas of study, including Neuroscience, Artificial Intelligence, Linguistics, Skilling, Medicine, Anthropology, Psychology, Philosophy, and Education. SUBMISSION GUIDELINES We welcome submissions from all areas of cognitive science and from anyone worldwide. For the 2022 online event, we are accepting only abstracts containing the salient details of your study. Please copy and paste the title and abstract into the submission form. Contribution size limit for the abstract is 1000 words. We are not accepting any paper-length submissions this year, so do include all relevant details in the abstract itself. A small number of abstracts will be selected for oral presentations/talks. Submission link: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=accs8 For CFP: https://easychair.org/cfp/accs8 IMPORTANT DATES Abstract registration deadline November 25, 2021 Submission deadline November 25, 2021 BEST PAPER AWARDS We are planning some best poster and oral presentations. Please stay tuned. CONTACT All questions about submissions should be emailed to accs8conference(a)gmail.com<mailto:accs8conference@gmail.com> Previous ACCS events - https://www.amrita.edu/event/accs8/about With best regards, Shyam Diwakar -- Prof. Shyam Diwakar, Ph.D. Director - Amrita Mind Brain Center Faculty Fellow - Amrita Center for International Programs Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University) Amritapuri, Clappana P.O. Kollam, India. Pin: 690525 Ph:+91-476-2803116 Fax:+91-476-2899722 http://amrita.edu/mindbrain [https://docs.google.com/uc?export=download&id=1_nOxaCXob6wVcuQyYI5KVk1PhMgi…] [https://intranet.cb.amrita.edu/sig/RankingLogo.png] Disclaimer : The information transmitted in this email, including attachments, is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. Any views expressed in any message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and destroy any copies of this information.

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(Call for papers) Adaptive Machines: Leveraging Neuroscience for Lifelong Learning Systems
by Andrea Soltoggio Sept. 17, 2021

Sept. 17, 2021

Dear All, This is a reminder of the upcoming deadline (30th of September) to submit to the Research Topic “Adaptive Machines: Leveraging Neuroscience for Lifelong Learning Systems”, co-hosted by Frontiers in Neuroscience, Robotics and AI, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Neurorobotics and Computational Neuroscience. Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/20053/adaptive-machines-leverag… Description: Artificial intelligence has always sought inspiration in the brain. Artificial neural networks (ANNs), in particular, were modeled after their biological counterparts (biological neural networks, BNNs). However, state-of-the-art deep networks are drastically different from BNNs. Their architectures (at both the single-neuron and macro levels), learning algorithms, and failure conditions share little in common with brain circuit dynamics. In particular, state-of-the-art deep learning is optimized for single, well-defined, static tasks. Deep networks struggle to learn multiple or evolving tasks over time (i.e., continual learning) or to adjust their processing based on environmental conditions. They are also less modular than BNNs, and thus less energy efficient, and utilize little-to-no feedback signals. We believe that deep networks suffer from these limitations because their modeling of brain dynamics is too superficial. Modeling more sophisticated neural mechanisms is therefore key for deep networks to achieve continual or lifelong learning and to cope with open-ended, dynamic environments. The goal of this Research Topic is to publish novel models and/or algorithms that expand the capabilities of deep learning (e.g., achieve better continual learning) by incorporating additional properties of BNNs. We are also interested in neuroscience research that elucidates mechanisms that can be leveraged by the AI community. Neuroscience has uncovered a wide range of learning and regulatory mechanisms, at scales ranging from single molecules to the entire nervous system, that help the brain learn, remember, and adapt. These include replay (systems-level consolidation), neuromodulation, neurogenesis, neuroevolution, attention, homeostatic plasticity, and synaptic consolidation. There exist some deep learning techniques motivated by these mechanisms (e.g., experience replay or attention networks), but they have rarely been used for lifelong learning. As such, our focus will be on approaches that leverage brain-like principles---ideally biologically well-grounded---to solve problems currently beyond the capabilities of the state of the art. We will also welcome neuroscience research that helps to elucidate the brain’s mechanisms, in the hope that they can be used by the next generation of machine learning models. The scope of this Research Topic covers: (1) biologically inspired techniques in deep learning (2) neuroscience research on how the brain facilitates learning and adapts to different contexts We seek to address continual or lifelong learning, transfer learning, and other ML scenarios that go beyond the traditional, train-then-test learning paradigm. Since machine learning is an experimental field, a paper must include experimental results to be accepted; however, we encourage authors to include theoretical analyses of their methods. We aim to collect the following types of manuscripts: Original Research and Brief Research Reports. Since the goal of this Research Topic is to publish highly novel, experimentally grounded work, we are not interested in Reviews (Systematic, Policy and Practice, etc.), General Commentaries, or Opinions. In addition, since the editorial board does not include medical experts, we cannot accept Clinical Trials or Study Protocols. The Research Topic is edited by Rolando Jose Estrada, Georgia State University, USA Andrea Soltoggio, Loughborough University, UK Praveen K. Pilly, HRL Laboratories, USA Vincenzo Lomonaco, University of Pisa, Italy, Davide Maltoni, University of Bologna, Italy. Please consider submitting your original research to this Research Topic. Do not hesitate to get in touch if you wish to discuss your contribution. Best wishes, Andrea -- Dr. Andrea Soltoggio (he/him or they/them) Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Artificial Intelligence Department of Computer Science, School of Science & Intelligent Automation Centre https://www.intelligent-automation.org.uk/about-us/centre-staff & Centre for Information Management https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/sbe/cim/ Haslegrave Building, N.2.03 Loughborough University LE11 3TU, UK Email: a.soltoggio(a)lboro.ac.uk<mailto:a.soltoggio@lboro.ac.uk> Web: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/compsci/staff/dr-andrea-soltoggio.html

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ISRC Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI Autumn School (ISRC-CN3)
by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt Sept. 17, 2021

Sept. 17, 2021

Dear All, We are excited to announce that our ISRC Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI Autumn School (ISRC-CN3) is now live and open for registration at the following link: https://store.ulster.ac.uk/product-catalogue/faculty-of-computing-engineeri… This Autumn School (from 25th October to 29th October), which will be conducted in a hybrid format, is organised by our Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Ulster University, Magee campus. More details can be found at the website: https://sites.google.com/view/isrc-cn3/home<https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsites.goo…> If you have any further queries about this event, please contact Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin (k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk) This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

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Postdoctoral Associate in Neural Circuits of Learning and Memory
by Yuri Dabaghian Sept. 17, 2021

Sept. 17, 2021

NIH-funded postdoctoral position is immediately available in the group of Dr. Yuri Dabaghian in the Department of Neurology at McGovern Medical School of the University of Texas, Houston. We are looking for scientists with research interests at the intersection of mathematics, physics, and neuroscience, in the general area of emergent phenomena and representations, network dynamics, topological data analyses. Some projects aim to explain electrophysiological data patterns, some are theoretically motivated. Specifically, we are interested in circuit mechanisms of learning and memory and their involvement in neurological disorders, notably Alzheimer's Disease. Successful candidates will develop data-driven hippocampal neuronal network models explaining spatial learning dynamics, develop and creatively apply tools for the data analysis including novel methods of brain waves (EEG) analyses, Topological Data Analysis of spiking data, etc. The Position requires strong background in quantitative disciplines (PhD and ongoing interest in computational or theoretical neuroscience, physics, mathematics, or related), plus willingness to do programming and to analyze experimental data. Previous experiences in data analyses are preferred but not required. All Appointments are initially for one year and are renewable for at least three years given satisfactory performance. The salary is competitive. The postdoc will be integrated into the large, vibrant neuroscience community of the Texas Medical Center and have the opportunity to participate in collaborations with groups at Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University. To apply, please send application materials including a detailed CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information of 3 references to Dr. Yuri Dabaghian at [Yuri.A.Dabaghian [at] uth.tmc.edu) The position is available immediately, until filled. For Additional information and informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Dabaghian. We Strive for a diverse and inclusive environment, and encourage applications from members of any identity.

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COSYNE 2022: Meeting announcement
by Tomas Hromadka Sept. 16, 2021

Sept. 16, 2021

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2022 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 17 - 20 March 2022 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 21 - 22 March 2022 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 20 November 2021. 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: 15 October 2021 Travel grant submission opens: 01 November 2021 Abstract submission deadline: 20 November 2021 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: Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) and Srdjan Ostojic (Ecole Normale Superieure Paris) Program Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU Munich) and Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Workshop Chairs: Anna Schapiro (U Penn) and Blake Richards (McGill) Tutorial Chair: Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai) DEIA Committee: Bianca Jones Martin (Columbia), Gabrielle Gutierrez (Columbia), and Stefano Recanatesi (U Washington) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Bob Wilson (U Arizona) Fundraising Chair: Michael Long (NYU) Social Media Chair: Grace Lindsay (Columbia) Poster Design: Maja Bialon PROGRAM COMMITTEE Laura Busse (U Munich) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Athena Akrami (UCL) Omri Barak (Technion) Brice Bathellier (Paris) Bing Brunton (U Washington) Yoram Burak (Hebrew University) SueYeon Chung (Columbia) Christine Constantinople (NYU) Victor de Lafuente (UNAM Mexico) Jan Drugowitsch (Harvard) Alexander Ecker (Göttingen) Tatiana Engel (Cold Spring Harbor) Annegret Falkner (Princeton) Kevin Franks (Duke) Jens Kremkow (Berlin) Andrew Leifer (Princeton) Sukbin Lim (Shanghai) Scott Linderman (Stanford) Emilie Mace (MPI Neurobiology) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL Lausanne) Ida Momennejad (Microsoft) Jill O'Reilly (Oxford) Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) Adrien Peyrache (McGill Montréal) Yiota Porazi (FORCE) Nathalie Rochefort (Edinburgh) Christina Savin (NYU) Daniela Vallentin (MPI Ornithology) Brad Wyble (U Penn) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) 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 -> Mailing lists for details.

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Online workshop "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting"
by Anton Arkhipov Sept. 14, 2021

Sept. 14, 2021

Dear Colleagues, Registration is now open for the online workshop "Towards multipurpose neural network models II: Model testing and model fitting" organized by Gaute Einevoll (NMBU/University of Oslo) and Anton Arkhipov (Allen Institute, Seattle) and supported by the European Institute for Theoretical Neuroscience (EITN). Please join us for three days of talks about cutting-edge science by fantastic speakers, as well as panel discussions. Dates: September 29 – October 1, 2021 Time: 8AM – 12:15PM US Pacific time / 5PM – 9:15PM Central European Time Daily. Registration: https://cnrs.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_saMXfg31Roe4tqHbWtTdFg Please see the agenda below and more details at this web page: https://www.eitn.org/index.php/calendar-event/eventdetail/750/-/workshop-on… We hope to see you there! Wednesday, September 29, 2021 Gaute Einevoll (NMBU/U. Oslo) Introduction Jacob Macke (U. Tübingen) Keynote. Simulation-based inference: Bridging the gap between mechanistic models and machine learning. Aaron Milstein (Rutgers U.) Nested parallel simulation and multi-objective optimization of neuronal cell and circuit models Atle Rimehaug (U. Oslo) Enhancing model constraints by utilizing current source densities Kristin Tøndel (NMBU) Facilitating optimization using metamodelling Frances Skinner (Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, and University of Toronto) Clarity in model development and goals leads to model linkages and biological insights Panel debate – All participants of the day. Thursday, September 30, 2021 Anton Arkhipov (Allen Institute) Introduction James DiCarlo (MIT) Keynote. Reverse Engineering Visual Intelligence Sharon Crook (Arizona State U.) Testing the Data-driven Model Szabolcs Kali (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary) Systematic construction and evaluation of models of rodent hippocampal neurons Peter Jedlicka (U. Giessen) Building consistent and robust models of hippocampal granule cells and CA1 pyramidal cells Stefan Mihalas (Allen Institute) Computing with a mess: How nonstationary, heterogeneous and noisy components help the brain’s computational power Panel debate – All participants of the day. Friday, October 1, 2021 Markus Covert (Stanford) Special lecture. Simultaneous cross-evaluation of heterogeneous E. coli datasets via mechanistic simulation Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai) Keynote. Data-constrained neural network models of adaptive learning in the brain Julijana Gjorgjeva (Max Planck Institute and TUM) Biologically plausible learning in developing networks Carsen Stringer (Janelia) Rastermap: Extracting structure from high-dimensional neural data Arvind Kumar (KTH Stockholm) Structure and activity dynamics relationship in biological neuronal networks: Measurements and models Panel debate – All participants of the day.

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PhD position in computational neuroscience/machine learning at UC Santa Barbara
by Michael Beyeler Sept. 14, 2021

Sept. 14, 2021

The Bionic Vision Lab lab at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position to develop computational models of neural activity in mice navigating through real-world and virtual environments. The successful candidate will have a strong quantitative background that includes machine learning, programming experience, and a thorough interest in neuroscience. This is an opportunity to work on an impactful real-world problem within a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment. Interested applicants should send a CV and transcript (unofficial is fine) to Michael Beyeler (mbeyeler(a)ucsb.edu) Official applications will have to be submitted through UCSB Grad Admissions before the application deadline indicated below. All genders welcome. Application deadline: December 1, 2021 Start date: Fall 2022 UCSB is a dynamic research institution, particularly in physical sciences and engineering, and was recently rated one of the Top 5 public schools in the United States (US News & World Report). Neuroscience research is well established here, featuring >35 faculty members whose research interests span the range from molecular to theoretical neuroscience.

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Call for community feedback on the endorsement of Neurolucida XML as a standard
by Malin Sandström Sept. 14, 2021

Sept. 14, 2021

Dear all, INCF is seeking community feedback and comments on the review of the MBF neuromorphological file format v 4.0, a format for digital reconstruction & modeling structure for microscopic anatomies, also known as “Neurolucida XML”, which has been submitted to INCF for endorsement as a community standard. If you have experience of using Neurolucida XML, we ask you to read the review report and comment based on your experiences, especially if you share or reuse data in the format, or work on models or tools that use the format. Link to the review: https://f1000research.com/documents/10-712 *Why endorse community standards? * INCF (incf.org) has implemented a formal procedure for evaluating and endorsing community standards and best practices in support of the FAIR principles. Our mission is to make neuroscience more open and FAIR, to ensure that research funds and efforts are well invested, and that neuroscientific findings are robust and replicable. Open community review is a very important step in the process. Quality community standards are necessary to make FAIR resources and processes work, but too many neuroscience communities lack robust standards or have competing incompatible standards. The rapid development of new techniques also means that there is a continuous need for new and updated standards, and that old standards need an active developer and user community keeping them up to date. By endorsing standards, INCF wants to make it easy to find the best, most reliable standard appropriate for your research, and ensure recognition for community members investing their time and effort in standards. The review criteria (https://incf.org/incf-standards-review-criteria-v20) include Openness; FAIRness; Design, Testing and Implementation; Governance; Adoption and use; Stability and support; Extensibility; Comparison (similarity to other standards). -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org ORCID: 0000-0002-8464-2494 International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org

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workshop on Brain Criticality: The Past, the Present and the Future
by Claudius Gros Sept. 14, 2021

Sept. 14, 2021

You are invited to attend the upcoming Bernstein workshop on Brain Criticality: The Past, the Present and the Future https://www.bernstein-network.de/en/bernstein-conference/2021-online/satell… Tuesday, September 21, 2021, 2pm CEST It is free, but you need to register with the Bernstein conference (see link above). Claudius Gros ### ### Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros ### http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros ### ### Complex and Adaptive Dynamical Systems, A Primer ### A graduate-level textbook, Springer (2008/10/13/15) ### ### Life for barren exoplanets: The Genesis project ### https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10509-016-2911-0 ###

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Bernstein Conference 2021 - abstracts are published
by Anja Dorrn Sept. 13, 2021

Sept. 13, 2021

Each year the Bernstein Network invites the international computational neuroscience community to the annual Bernstein Conference for intensive scientific exchange. It has established itself as one of the most renown conferences worldwide in this field, attracting students, postdocs and PIs from around the world to meet and discuss new scientific discoveries. Due to the ongoing pandemic the Bernstein Conference will be held online. www.bernstein-conference.de ____ IMPORTANT DATES & NEWS * Bernstein Conference: September 21-23, 2021 * Abstracts are published * Registration is open and free of charge * PhD Symposium on September 24, 2021 ____ ABSTRACTS All accepted abstracts are now published online and are citable via Digital Object Identifiers (DOI). Please find them here: https://abstracts.g-node.org/conference/BC21/abstracts#/ ____ REGISTRATION The participation at the online Bernstein Conference 2021 will be free of charge for all participants. Thus the Bernstein Network contributes to keep the scientific exchange alive in the ongoing challenges during the pandemic. Please register here: https://hopin.com/events/bernstein-conference-2021 ____ PHD SYMPOSIUM The Bernstein PhD Symposium on September 24, 2021 is an opportunity for junior researchers to meet their peers, share their experience and make new connections. This year's topic is Gaming meets neuroscience. Please register here: https://hopin.com/events/bernstein-phd-symposium-2021 ____ INVITED SPEAKERS Keynote Timothy Behrens (University of Oxford, UK) Invited Talks Athena Akrami (University College London, UK) Nadine Gogolla (Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology, Martinsried, Germany) Guillaume Hennequin (University of Cambridge, UK) Jennifer Li & Drew Robson (Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany) Scott Lindermann (Stanford University, USA) Ashok Litwin-Kumar (Columbia University, New York City, USA) Ida Momennejad (Microsoft Research, New York City, USA) Cristina Savin (New York University, USA) Marion Silies (Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany) Daniela Vallentin (Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany) ____ CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Christian Leibold (Conference Chair) Julijana Gjiorgjieva (Program Chair) Christian Machens (Program Vice Chair) Marion Silies (Workshop Chair) Moritz Helias (Workshop Vice Chair) & Matthew Botvinick, Megan Carey, Peter Dayan, Brent Doiron, Rainer Friedrich, Ann Hermundstad, Srdjan Ostojic, Nathalie Rochefort, Nicole Rust, Gasper Tkacik ____ For any further questions, please contact: bernstein.conference(a)fz-juelich.de -- Dr. Anja Dorrn Scientific Coordinator Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 web: www.bernstein-network.de<http://www.bernstein-network.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Biologically plausible models of path planning in humans and rodents
by Jeffrey Krichmar Sept. 10, 2021

Sept. 10, 2021

Dear Colleagues, We recently published two papers on biologically plausible models of path planning that simulate and analyze navigation strategies in rodents and humans. Some of the ideas presented in these papers may be applicable to autonomous systems. If you are interested, please see: Krichmar, J.L., and He, C. (2021). Importance of Path Planning Variability: A Simulation Study. Topics in Cognitive Science. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/tops.12568 Individuals vary in the way they navigate through space. Some take novel shortcuts, while others rely on known routes to find their way around. We wondered how and why there is so much variation in the population. To address this, we first compared the trajectories of 368 human subjects navigating a virtual maze with simulated trajectories. The simulated trajectories were generated by strategy-based path planning algorithms from robotics. Based on the similarities between human trajectories and different strategy-based simulated trajectories, we found that there is a variation in the type of strategy individuals apply to navigate space, as well as variation within individuals on a trial-by-trial basis. Moreover, we observed variation within a trial when subjects occasionally switched the navigation strategies halfway through a trajectory. In these cases, subjects started with a route strategy, in which they followed a familiar path, and then switched to a survey strategy, in which they took shortcuts by considering the layout of the environment. Then we simulated a second set of trajectories using five different but comparable artificial maps. These trajectories produced the similar pattern of strategy variation within and between trials. Furthermore, we varied the relative cost, that is, the assumed mental effort or required timesteps to choose a learned route over alternative paths. When the learned route was relatively costly, the simulated agents tended to take shortcuts. Conversely, when the learned route was less costly, the simulated agents showed preference toward a route strategy. We suggest that cost or assumed mental effort may be the reason why in previous studies, subjects used survey knowledge when instructed to take the shortest path. We suggest that this variation we observe in humans may be beneficial for robotic swarms or collections of autonomous agents during information gathering. Krichmar, J.L., Ketz, N.A., Pilly, P.K., and Soltoggio, A. (2021). Flexible Path Planning through Vicarious Trial and Error. bioRxiv, 2021.2009.2008.459317. https://www.biorxiv.org/node/2148912.abstract Flexible planning is necessary for reaching goals and adapting when conditions change. We introduce a biologically plausible path planning model that learns its environment, rapidly adapts to change, and plans efficient routes to goals. Unlike prior models of hippocamapl replay, our model addresses the decision-making process when faced with uncertainty. We tested the model in simulations of human and rodent navigation in mazes. Like the human and rat, the model was able to generate novel shortcuts, and take detours when familiar routes were blocked. Similar to rodent hippocampus recordings, the neural activity of the model resembles neural correlates of Vicarious Trial and Error (VTE) during early learning or during uncertain conditions. Similar to rodent studies, after learning, the neural activity resembles forward replay or preplay predicting a future route, and VTE activity decreases. We suggest that VTE, in addition to weighing possible outcomes, is a way in which an organism may gather information for future use. 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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Postdoctoral position available
by Sara A. Solla Sept. 10, 2021

Sept. 10, 2021

*Integrating Human and Machine Learning for Enabling Co-Adaptive * *Body-Machine Interfaces* * Sandro Mussa-Ivaldi and Sara A. Solla PI’s * *Northwestern University* We are seeking postdoctoral applicants with interests and experience in computational methods, machine learning, and human-machine interactions to participate in an NSF-funded project. The goal of the project is customizing human-machine interfaces through a collaborative interaction between human and machine learning. This has relevance to the recovery of function after injury to the spinal cord. The same goals apply also to non-clinical domains. Common to the different domains is the necessity to learn novel movement skills. The project will consider how this challenge is met through the interaction with an adaptive interface, the body-machine interface, that maps body motions onto commands to external devices. The working hypotheses are H1) that through a dynamical process of learning the human operators form an internal model of the interface and connected device, and H2) that the human machine interface can be adapted to its users by an update rule that tracks the learning process of the human operator. The success of the research project will lead to a new family of intelligent human machine interfaces capable of customizing themselves to the evolving ability of their users. Applications, including a brief statement, a bio sketch, and the names of two references, should be sent to bomiproject2021(a)gmail.com

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Postdoc position on neural mechanisms of flexible behavior
by Luca Mazzucato Sept. 5, 2021

Sept. 5, 2021

Dear colleagues, We are looking for a computational neuroscience postdoc to lead a project on the neural mechanisms of flexible behavior. The theory position will be co-supervised by Luca Mazzucato and David McCormick and funded by the NIH BRAIN Initiative collaboration between the McCormick, Niell, Jaramillo and Mazzucato labs at University of Oregon. The project aims at elucidating the whole-brain dynamics enabling flexible modality switching in an audiovisual decision-making task. A successful candidate will use state-space models and multi-area recurrent network models to elucidate the activity and functional connectivity of cortical circuits from large datasets in behaving mice (2-photon mesoscope with ~10k neurons; multiple neuropixel probes). Experience with deep learning is recommended for integrating behavioral analyses with task performance and neural activity. The postdoc will be part of the vibrant neuroscience and machine learning community at the University of Oregon including the Institute of Neuroscience <https://ion.uoregon.edu/> and the Knight Campus <https://accelerate.uoregon.edu/> for Accelerating Science. The University is located in beautiful Eugene, the country's leader in the "20-minute friendly <https://tinyurl.com/y8jd8pmr>" bike commute movement, at close range between the Cascades ski areas and the Pacific Ocean. Successful candidates will have a PhD in Physics, Neuroscience, Mathematics, Computer Science, Statistics or a related discipline and, preferably, experience in theoretical neuroscience and statistical analysis of large neuroscience datasets. For inquiries please contact Luca Mazzucato or David McCormick.

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8th Baltic-Nordic Summer School on Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics (BNNI 2021)
by Pawel Herman Sept. 5, 2021

Sept. 5, 2021

Dear Fellow Neuroscientists and Students We would like to invite you to the 8th Baltic-Nordic Summer School on Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics, which will be organised as a virtual event on 21-25 September, 2021. The 8th Baltic-Nordic Summer School on Neuroscience and Neuroinformatics 2021 “Learning in the Brain and NeuroRobots – from Molecules to Behaviour” offers interdisciplinary course and covers modelling at different levels of organization of the brain, from single neurons to microcircuits, neural networks and neurorobotics. The course offers lectures on the latest achievements in understanding learning, neural and network dynamics and function in health and disease, neurorobotic theory and applications, and hands-on tutorials on the EBRAINS services and tools. The summer school targets advanced master students, doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers in biomedical and technology sciences, ranging from medicine, biology, psychology, to mathematics, informatics, information technology, physics and chemistry, who would like to get an introduction to neuroinformatics and computational neuroscience and especially the EBRAINS Infrastructure<http://ebrains.eu/> (ebrains.eu<http://ebrains.eu>). Further information and registration: https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/en/education/BNNI2021/ Best regards Pawel Herman on behalf of the organising committee ------------------------------------ Paweł Herman Associate Professor, PhD, Docent KTH Royal Institute of Technology School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) Division of Computational Science and Technology (CST) Lindstedtsvägen 5 114 28 Stockholm, Sweden room 4442 (4th floor, D-building) tel. +46 8 790 6513

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DEADLINE EXTENDED: Summer School on Network and Control Sciences for Psychiatry
by Jasper Bischofberger Sept. 2, 2021

Sept. 2, 2021

Dear all, We are happy to announce a Summer School on “Current and Future Applications of Network and Control Sciences for Psychiatry” Host Institution: *University of Tübingen, Germany* Location: *Online event* Dates: *September 29th – October 1st 2021* Abstract deadline: *September 10th, 2021* Registration fees: *free* *Focus* This Summer School gives an opportunity to students and young researchers to get acquainted with and exchange within a range of current topics in network and control sciences and its applications in Psychiatry. ____ *Keynotes* Danielle S. Bassett (University of Pennsylvania, USA) Peter Dayan (MPI Tübingen, Germany) John Medaglia (Drexel University, USA) For the full list of speakers visit: https://www.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/de/summer-school-controlpsychiatry/spe… ____ *Registration* The summer school is free of charge for all participants, but to get all important information please register online via: https://www.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/de/summer-school-controlpsychiatry ____ *Poster Submission* Participants can present their latest research results as a poster. Some of the most relevant submissions will have the possibility to present their work in a dedicated oral session and receive an official certificate. Please submit your abstract (limited to 250 words) latest by September 10th to: controlpsychiatry(a)med.uni-tuebingen.de ____ Questions? Please contact: controlpsychiatry(a)med.uni-tuebingen.de We are excited to see you soon! Best wishes, The organizing committee

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Faculty Position in Computational Neuroscience at Bristol University.
by Conor Houghton Aug. 31, 2021

Aug. 31, 2021

In the Department of Computer Science at the University of Bristol we are seeking to appoint a faculty member in Computational Neuroscience at Lecturer or Senior Lecturer level, comparable to Assistant or Associate Professorship level. https://www.bristol.ac.uk/jobs/find/details/?jobId=252155 Candidates are sought with expertise in computational neuroscience or computational cognitive science; any area of our broad subject will be considered. The University of Bristol is a significant centre for both computational neuroscience and machine learning and a leader in experimental, clinical and cognitive neuroscience. There is a robust tradition of collaboration between experimental and computational neuroscientists. Bristol itself is a friendly green coastal city with a rich and lively cultural scene and is regarded one of the best places to live in the UK. You are welcome to contact one of us (conor.houghton||laurence.aitchison||n.lepora||rui.costa)(a)bristol.ac.uk, or our head of department Chris Allen, c.b.allen(a)bristol.ac.uk, to discuss the post informally. The closing date for applications is 3 October. We value diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity. All the best Conor Houghton Laurence Aitchison Nathan Lepora Rui Ponte Costa https://bristolcnu.github.io/ http://www.bristol.ac.uk/neuroscience/

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PhD position at the Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
by Claudius Gros Aug. 30, 2021

Aug. 30, 2021

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany Fields: theoretical neurosciences, complex systems theory, Covid-19 modeling Application deadline: Oct 15, 2021 Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros We are developing new models and generative principles for the societies of interacting agents using a range of toolsets from dynamical systems theory and game theory. Examples are Covid-19 modeling and the influence of envy on the structure of human societies. We are also developing operating principles for reference robot systems, and for neuroscience applications. It is expected that applicants study the publication list available on the website of the lab, as given below. Several subjects are available for the announced PhD thesis, depending on the background of the successful candidate. The work will include analytical investigations and numerical simulations. The candidates should have a Diploma/Master's in physics with an excellent academic track record and good computational skills. Experience or strong interest in the fields of complex systems, dynamical systems theory, game theory, and/or artificial or biological cognitive systems is expected. The degree of scientific research experience is expected to be on the level of a German Diploma/Master. The appointment will start early 2022, for three years. Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and a list of publications, and arrange for letters of reference to be sent to the address below. Prof. Claudius Gros Institute for Theoretical Physics Goethe University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 1 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany cgr(a)itp.uni-frankfurt.de http://www.itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros General information on the University of Frankfurt and its employment policy: With its around 46,000 students and 4,600 employees, the Goethe University in Frankfurt is the largest university in the state of Hessen and an internationally renowned, important regional employer. Numerous quality and performance oriented internal reforms have been initiated in the recent years. The reorganized campuses for natural sciences and humanities offer an ideal environment for research and education. Since 2008, the Goethe University is a foundation under public law and enjoys full administrative autonomy.  The fixed-term employment of the academic staff is subject to the provisions of the Temporary Science Employment Law and the Hessian Higher Education Act. The University advocates gender equality and therefore strongly encourages women to apply. People with disabilities are given preference if equally qualified. -- ### ### Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros ### http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros ### ### Complex and Adaptive Dynamical Systems, A Primer ### A graduate-level textbook, Springer (2008/10/13/15) ### ### Life for barren exoplanets: The Genesis project ### https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10509-016-2911-0 ###

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Ph.D. student / Postdoc position in machine learning with spiking neurons at University of Bremen, Germany
by David Rotermund Aug. 30, 2021

Aug. 30, 2021

tl;dr: You looked at our paper Back-Propagation Learning in Deep Spike-By-Spike Networks ( https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fncom.2019.00055/full ) and thought "Interesting idea but I can improve that!" then you may want to tell us your idea... You could end up working on it as a Ph.D. student / Postdoc for the next three years in Bremen, Germany. ------------- The Computational Neuroscience group of Klaus Pawelzik invites applications for an open Ph.D. student / Postdoc position (E13 TV-L 100% for 3 years; all genders welcome) in the project "Efficient Implementation of Spike-by-Spike Neural Networks using Stochastic and Approximative Techniques". We are looking for a person with a strong background in mathematics, programming, and machine learning as well as an intense interest in neuroscience. Someone who is not afraid of cooperating with engineers, since this is a joint project with a focus on hardware development. The overarching goal of our project is to improve the efficiency of spiking artificial neural networks using hardware and algorithmic approximation techniques. Specifically, the project focuses on Spike-by-Spike networks since they offer a balance between computational requirements and biological-realism which keeps the advantages of the biological networks while enabling a compact technical realization. To fully take advantage of the unique features of SbS in terms of robustness and sparseness, dedicated hardware architectures are required. You would join in with numerical simulations, theoretical analyses, as well as through the development of new ideas and approaches for boosting the performance and capabilities of the Spike-By-Spike model. Furthermore, you would also work on combining Spike-By-Spike networks with non spiking deep neuronal networks into hybrid models. The details can be found at http://www.neuro.uni-bremen.de/content/open-position-sbs

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Postdoc / Staff Scientist in brain imaging during natural behavior
by Geoffrey Goodhill Aug. 28, 2021

Aug. 28, 2021

Postdoc / Staff Scientist in brain imaging during natural behavior The Goodhill lab at Washington University in St Louis is looking for a postdoc or staff scientist for an NIH-funded project to develop novel microscopy methods for whole-brain calcium imaging in freely-behaving zebrafish. This is a collaboration with Oliver Cossairt at Northwestern University. The lab focuses on the formation of neural circuits underlying behavior. This includes developing novel experimental, computational and theoretical methods and applying them to domains including hunting and social behavior, sleep and autism spectrum disorders. In this project we will be constructing new light-field imaging techniques to record the activity of ~100,000 neurons in the zebrafish brain during unconstrained hunting behavior. We are looking for someone with a background in developing new imaging technologies. The lab is fully integrated between experimental and theoretical work. Washington University in St Louis is ranked in the top 10 globally for Neuroscience and Behavior, and offers an outstanding intellectual environment for neuroscience research. To apply please send a detailed CV and cover letter explaining your interest to g.goodhill(a)wustl.edu<mailto:g.goodhill@wustl.edu>. Professor Geoffrey J Goodhill Departments of Developmental Biology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, and Electrical and Systems Engineering Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, MO 63110 https://neuroscience.wustl.edu/people/geoffrey-goodhill-phd Email: g.goodhill(a)wustl.edu<mailto:g.goodhill@wustl.edu>

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Post-doctoral Position in Human Perceptual Neuroscience at NYU
by Hardstone, Richard Aug. 27, 2021

Aug. 27, 2021

The Perception and Brain Dynamics Laboratory (PI: Biyu J. He, Ph.D.; www.med.nyu.edu/helab<http://www.med.nyu.edu/helab>) at New York University currently has two open post-doctoral positions, which can start immediately (with a flexible start date). We are interested in candidates with a background in perceptual/cognitive neuroscience and/or related computational modeling. Experience in human electrophysiology (MEG/EEG or intracranial recordings) or neuroimaging (fMRI) is ideal. Successful applicants will be able to participate in cutting-edge research to understand the neural basis of human perception (broadly defined), and will have opportunities to employ multiple advanced recording (e.g., M/EEG, 7T fMRI, ECoG) and analysis approaches in their research. Research questions may include: * What are the roles of spontaneous brain activity in perception? * How do prior knowledge and past experiences influence perception? * What are the neural differences between conscious and unconscious processing? * What are the temporal dynamics of neural activity underlying perception? To apply, please email PI Biyu J. He at biyu.jade.he(a)gmail.com<mailto:biyu.jade.he@gmail.com>, with subject line "post-doctoral application", and include a CV, a 1-2 page research statement (including accomplishments and interests), and names and contacts for 2-3 referees. To inquire, please email PI Biyu J. He at biyu.jade.he(a)gmail.com<mailto:biyu.jade.he@gmail.com>, with subject line "post-doctoral application inquiry", and attach your CV. Our laboratory is located on the medical campus of New York University in Manhattan, NY, and is affiliated with the Neuroscience Institute, Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience & Physiology, and Radiology. We offer competitive salaries and benefits that adjust for cost of living in New York City. The position is expected to last at least 2 years, and is renewed annually depending on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, starting immediately.

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2nd SMILES workshop, Aug 31st: Sensorimotor Interaction, Language and Embodiment of Symbols
by Xavier Hinaut Aug. 27, 2021

Aug. 27, 2021

* WHAT The SMILES workshop is about Sensorimotor Interaction, Language and Embodiment of Symbols (SMILES). It is a satellite event from the ICDL 2020 (International Conference on Developmental Learning). * WHEN Tuesday 31st of August 2021. Planned schedule: 9am - 8.30pm CEST (UTC+2). * WHERE Online event on Zoom. (Link sent to registered people the day before, see LINKS section) * WHO 8 Invited speakers from multiple fields: neurolinguistics, speech communication, language evolution, developmental science, social robotics, computational neuroscience, language acquisition. - Morten Christiansen, Cornell University, NY, USA & Aarhus University, Denmark - Kaya de Barbaro, University of CaliforniaSan Diego, USA - Cynthia Matuszek, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA - Yair Lakretz, NeuroSpin Center, Gif sur Yvette, France - Harm Brouwer, Saarland University, Germany - Jean-Luc Schwartz, Gipsa lab, Grenoble-Alpes University, France - Daniel Dor, Tel Aviv University, Israel - Lauren Emberson, University of British Columbia, Canada - Bart de Boer, AI-lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium * LINKS - ** Website **: https://sites.google.com/view/smiles-workshop/home - ** Registration is free but mandatory **: https://forms.gle/tyvMdbb8UJFyXZky8 - Contact: smiles.conf(a)gmail.com - ICDL conference website: https://icdl-2021.org/ * WHAT+ (Short Description) On the one hand, models of sensorimotor interaction are embodied in the environment and in the interaction with other agents. On the other hand, recent Deep Learning development of Natural Language Processing (NLP) models allow to capture increasing language complexity (e.g. compositional representations, word embedding, long term dependencies). However, those NLP models are disembodied in the sense that they are learned from static datasets of text or speech. How can we bridge the gap from low-level sensorimotor interaction to high-level compositional symbolic communication? The SMILES workshop will address this issue through an interdisciplinary approach involving researchers from (but not limited to): - Sensori-motor learning, - Emergent communication in multi-agent systems, - Chunking of perceptuo-motor gestures (gestures in a general sense: motor, vocal, ...), - Sensori-motor learning, - Symbol grounding and symbol emergence, - Compositional representations for communication and action sequence, - Hierarchical representations of temporal information, - Language processing and acquisition in brains and machines, - Models of animal communication, - Language evolution, - Understanding composition and temporal processing in neural network models, and - Enaction, active perception, perception-action loop. SMILES workshop organisers - Xavier Hinaut, Inria, Bordeaux, France - Clément Moulin-Frier, Inria and Ensta ParisTech, Bordeaux, France - Silvia Pagliarini, Inria, Bordeaux, France - Michael Spranger, Sony AI and Sony CSL, Tokyo, Japan - Tadahiro Taniguchi, Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan - Anne S. Warlaumont, University of California, Los Angeles, America - Junpei Zhong, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom Xavier Hinaut Inria Researcher (CR) Mnemosyne team, Inria LaBRI, Université de Bordeaux Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives www.xavierhinaut.com

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Recorded talks from TEX2021 - Bringing together Predictive Processes and Statistical Learning
by Yamil Vidal Aug. 26, 2021

Aug. 26, 2021

Dear all, This July we had the honor of hosting TEX2021 - Bringing together Predictive Processes and Statistical Learning. Here you can find the recordings of the talks: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtD9ktPLCbafVngJ_whZL65_KT23XAKnl Thanks again to all of our amazing invited speakers, Tristan Bekinschtein, Lucia Melloni, Padraic Monaghan, Maria Chait, Floris de Lange, Caspar Schwiedrzik, Lori Holt and Nicola Molinaro. Please share!! Best regards, Yamil Vidal and Davide Crepaldi Dr. Yamil Vidal Cognitive Neuroscience Sector Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati - SISSA via Bonomea, 265 34136 Trieste, ITALY

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CfP: Call for Paper Frontiers in Neuroscience: Special Issue "Graph Learning for Brain Imaging"
by Feng Liu Aug. 25, 2021

Aug. 25, 2021

Dear Colleagues, We are writing to you know that we are organizing a special issue "Graph Learning for Brain Imaging" in Frontiers in Neuroscience (impact factor 4.7). We believe this is a timely special issue to showcase the new developments using graph representation, deep learning on graph-structured data to address important brain imaging and computational neuroscience problems. *Link*: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/23683/graph-learning -for-brain-imaging *Keywords*: Brain Networks, Graph Neural Networks, Brain Imaging, Graph Embedding, Multi-Modal Imaging. *Topics*: We are looking for original, high-quality submissions on innovative research and developments in the analysis of brain imaging using graph learning techniques. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to): • Graph neural networks (GNN) for network neuroscience applications • Graph neural network for brain mapping and data integration • Graph convolution network (GCN) for brain disorder classification • (Dynamic) Functional brain networks • Brain networks development trajectories • Graphical model for brain imaging data analysis • Spatial-temporal brain network modeling • Graph embedding and graph representation learning • Information fusion for brain networks from multiple modalities or scales (fMRI, M/EEG, DTI, PET, genetics) • Generative graph models in brain imaging • Brain network inference: scalable, online, and from non-linear relationships • Machine learning over graphs: kernel-based techniques, clustering methods, scalable algorithms for brain imaging • A few-shot learning for learning from limited brain data • Graph federated learning for brain imaging *Important Dates*: Abstract: 30-Sep-2021 Full paper: 30-Dec-2021 *Background:* Unprecedented collections of large-scale brain imaging data, such as MRI, PET, fMRI, M/EEG, DTI, etc. provide a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of the brain working mechanisms, improve prognostic predictions for mental disorders, and tailor personalized treatment plans for brain diseases. Recent advances in machine learning and large-scale brain imaging data collection, storage, and sharing lead to a series of novel interdisciplinary approaches among the fields of computational neuroscience, signal processing, deep learning, brain imaging, cognitive science, and computational psychiatry, among which graph learning provides a valuable means to address important questions in brain imaging. Graph learning refers to designing effective machine learning and deep learning methods extracting important information from graphs or exploiting the graph structure in the data to guide the knowledge discovery. Given the complex data structure in different imaging modalities as well as the networked organizational structure of the human brain, novel learning methods based on graphs inferred from imaging data, graph regularizations for the data, and graph embedding of the recorded data, have shown great promise in modeling the interactions of multiple brain regions, information fusion among networks derived from different brain imaging modalities, latent space modeling of the high dimensional brain networks, and quantifying topological neurobiomarkers. The goal of this Research Topic is to synergize the start-of-the-art discoveries in terms of new computational brain imaging models and insights of brain mechanisms through the lens of brain networks and graph learning. --On Behalf of all the Guest Editors Feng Liu, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, USA Yu Zhang, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA Jordi Solé-Casals, Universitat de Vic - Universitat Central de Catalunya, Barcelona, SpainIslem Rekik, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, TurkeyYehia Massoud, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia Best regards Feng Liu

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WWNeuRise series on predictive processing (Sept-Oct 2021)
by William Podlaski Aug. 24, 2021

Aug. 24, 2021

WorldWideNeuRise will host several online talks throughout September-October on the topic of predictive processing from the following speakers (titles TBA): Wednesday, 8 September, 5pm CET Caroline Jahn (Buschman Lab, Princeton University) Ramon Bartolo (Averbeck Lab, National Institute of Mental Health) Wednesday, 22 September, 5pm CET Nick Audette (Schneider Lab, New York University) Colleen J. Gillon (Richards Lab, Mila & McGill University) Wednesday, 6 October, 5pm CET Nuttida Rungratsameetaweemana (Sejnowski Lab, UCSD & Salk Institute) Oded Bein (Niv Lab, Princeton University) Wednesday, 20 October, 5pm CET Selina Solomon (Growth Intelligence) Tomaso Muzzu (Saleem Lab, University College London) For more information, please visit our website (https://neurise.github.io/) find us on WorldWideNeuro (https://www.world-wide.org/Neuro/WWNeuRise/) or follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/WWNeuRise) We are actively searching for PhD students and postdocs to give talks in our upcoming seminar blocks. On our website (https://neurise.github.io/) you can find an application form to directly apply, as well as a recommendation form, where you can suggest individuals from your lab, institute, or otherwise who you think might have an interesting story to tell! We are looking forward to seeing you at our upcoming seminars! The organising committee, Ellen Boven (Apps lab, University of Bristol) Christina Buetfering (Häusser lab, University College London) Lucie Descamps (Kentros lab, Norwegian University of Science and Technology) Gily Ginosar (Ulanovsky lab, Weizmann Institute) Loreen Hertäg (Clopath lab, Imperial College London) Joram Keijser (Sprekeler lab, TU Berlin) Bill Podlaski (Machens lab, Champalimaud Research)

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Reminder (one week left): Call for papers: Symposium on Mathematics of Neuroscience
by Ruairidh McLennan Battleday Aug. 23, 2021

Aug. 23, 2021

Two decades into the 21st century, can we claim to be any closer to a unified model of the brain? In this exploratory symposium, we invite submissions for short talks and posters presenting general mathematical models of brain function. We give priority to those models that account for brain or behavioural data, or provide simulations to that effect. The symposium will be held at the applied mathematics conference ICNAAM 2021, to be held virtually and in person on the island of Rhodes, Greece from the 20-26th of September 2021. Submission is by 250-word abstract before the 30th August, sent to the organizers Prof Dan V. Nicolau Jr ( dan.nicolau(a)qut.edu.au) and Dr Ruairidh M. Battleday ( battleday(a)princeton.edu) We already have a great lineup (www.neuromonster.org) and with one week left until the deadline for the abstract submission encourage any remaining interested parties to apply. Ruairidh and Dan -- Dr. Ruairidh McLennan Battleday, BMBCh (Oxon) MA PhD Candidate and Cognitive Science Fellow Computational Cognitive Science Lab, Department of Computer Science Princeton University Department of Statistics St John's College University of Oxford

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[meetings] 2nd SMILES workshop, Aug 31st: Sensorimotor Interaction, Language and Embodiment of Symbols
by Xavier Hinaut Aug. 21, 2021

Aug. 21, 2021

* WHAT The SMILES workshop is about Sensorimotor Interaction, Language and Embodiment of Symbols (SMILES). It is a satellite event from the ICDL 2020 (International Conference on Developmental Learning). * WHEN Tuesday 31st of August 2021. Planned schedule (it might change): 9am - 8.30pm CEST (UTC+2). * WHERE Online event on Zoom. (Link sent to registered people the day before, see LINKS section) * WHO 8 Invited speakers from multiple fields: neurolinguistics, speech communication, language evolution, developmental science, social robotics, computational neuroscience, language acquisition. - Morten Christiansen, Cornell University, NY, USA & Aarhus University, Denmark - Kaya de Barbaro, University of CaliforniaSan Diego, USA - Cynthia Matuszek, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA - Yair Lakretz, NeuroSpin Center, Gif sur Yvette, France - Harm Brouwer, Saarland University, Germany - Jean-Luc Schwartz, Gipsa lab, Grenoble-Alpes University, France - Daniel Dor, Tel Aviv University, Israel - Lauren Emberson, University of British Columbia, Canada * LINKS - ** Website **: https://sites.google.com/view/smiles-workshop/home <https://sites.google.com/view/smiles-workshop/home> - ** Registration is free but mandatory **: https://forms.gle/tyvMdbb8UJFyXZky8 <https://forms.gle/tyvMdbb8UJFyXZky8> - Contact: smiles.conf(a)gmail.com <mailto:smiles.conf@gmail.com> - ICDL conference website: https://icdl-2021.org/ <https://icdl-2021.org/> * WHAT+ (Short Description) On the one hand, models of sensorimotor interaction are embodied in the environment and in the interaction with other agents. On the other hand, recent Deep Learning development of Natural Language Processing (NLP) models allow to capture increasing language complexity (e.g. compositional representations, word embedding, long term dependencies). However, those NLP models are disembodied in the sense that they are learned from static datasets of text or speech. How can we bridge the gap from low-level sensorimotor interaction to high-level compositional symbolic communication? The SMILES workshop will address this issue through an interdisciplinary approach involving researchers from (but not limited to): - Sensori-motor learning, - Emergent communication in multi-agent systems, - Chunking of perceptuo-motor gestures (gestures in a general sense: motor, vocal, ...), - Sensori-motor learning, - Symbol grounding and symbol emergence, - Compositional representations for communication and action sequence, - Hierarchical representations of temporal information, - Language processing and acquisition in brains and machines, - Models of animal communication, - Language evolution, - Understanding composition and temporal processing in neural network models, and - Enaction, active perception, perception-action loop. SMILES workshop organisers - Xavier Hinaut, Inria, Bordeaux, France - Clément Moulin-Frier, Inria and Ensta ParisTech, Bordeaux, France - Silvia Pagliarini, Inria, Bordeaux, France - Michael Spranger, Sony AI and Sony CSL, Tokyo, Japan - Tadahiro Taniguchi, Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan - Anne S. Warlaumont, University of California, Los Angeles, America - Junpei Zhong, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom Xavier Hinaut Inria Researcher (CR) Mnemosyne team, Inria LaBRI, Université de Bordeaux Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives www.xavierhinaut.com <http://www.xavierhinaut.com/>

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Postdoc and PhD Positions in Computational Cognitive Neuroscience at UKE - Hamburg
by Stefano Panzeri Aug. 20, 2021

Aug. 20, 2021

The Panzeri and Donner laboratories at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) aim to fill joint postdoc and PhD positions starting at any time. The vacant positions are for collaborative projects in computational cognitive neuroscience, and funding is available for several years. Applications will be reviewed when they are received until positions are filled. Both labs aim to understand how higher brain functions such as sensation, perception, decision-making, and memory, emerge from the interactions between brain areas and/or populations of neurons within these areas. These topics are studied in the healthy brain and in neuropsychiatric disorders, and they are addressed through a tight interplay between theoretical and experimental approaches. Joint ongoing work focuses on how feedforward and feedback communication across the cortical hierarchy, excitation-inhibition balance, and neuromodulatory processes, shape decision-making. The Panzeri Lab, newly established at UKE Hamburg, is a theoretical lab which develops advanced mathematical tools for brain data analysis, applies these methods to real data to produce new results on neural information processing, and develops biophysically plausible neural network models of how information is processed in the brain. The Donner lab is an experimental lab that combines pharmacological intervention, psychophysics, eye-tracking, and neuroimaging (MEG and fMRI) in human subjects with advanced data analysis and computational modeling tools to uncover signatures and mechanisms of cognitive computation. The new lab members will join existing teams with extensive expertise in both computational and experimental neuroscience. The new lab members will also benefit from both labs’ extensive international collaborations including Harvard Medical School, Italian Institute of Technology, Baylor College of Medicine, Cornell University, École Normale Supérieure, New York University, Pompeu Fabra University, University of Pennsylvania, SISSA and others. We seek applications from qualified individuals from all demographics, genders, and backgrounds. Both labs are committed to diversity, highly international, and operate in English. Hamburg is a vibrant, international, family-friendly, and green city. It hosts one of the world’s largest harbours, an internationally acclaimed concert hall, a large lake, and dozens of canals, lots of beautiful parks, and many other nice places for leisure time. The UKE also has excellent family-friendly facilities. Candidates should have a solid background in numerate sciences and a keen interest in applying advanced mathematical concepts to reveal the function of the brain. Experience in quantitative or computational neuroscience is a major plus. The main criterion, however, is a commitment to scientific excellence. Applications (full CV, statement of research interest and name and contact of 2 referees) should be sent to t.donner(a)uke.de , stefano.panzeri(a)gmail.com Further information on both labs can be found here: http://www.tobiasdonner.net https://www.uke.de/english/departments-institutes/institutes/department-of-… Recent relevant publications of the labs include: Pfeffer, T. et al (2021), Circuit mechanisms for the chemical modulation of cortex-wide network interactions and behavioral variability*. *Science Advances 7: eabf5620 Valente, M., et al (2021), Correlations enhance the behavioral readout of neural population activity in association cortex. Nature Neuroscience, 24, 975–986 Murphy P., et al (2021), Adaptive circuit dynamics across human cortex during evidence accumulation in changing environments. Nature Neuroscience 7: 987-997. Wilming N., et al (2020), Large-scale dynamics of decision information across human cortex. Nature Communications 11: 5109. Chong, E. et al (2020) Manipulating synthetic optogenetic odors reveals the coding logic of olfactory perception. Science 368, 1329. Runyan C. A., et al (2017) Distinct timescales of population coding across cortex, Nature: 548: 92-96. Stefano Panzeri, Professor of Neural Information Processing Tobias H. Donner, Professor of Integrative Neuroscience University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf

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Faculty research fellowships ('tenure-track') available at the University of Nottingham
by Marcus Kaiser Aug. 19, 2021

Aug. 19, 2021

Dear all, New recruitment round launched for Nottingham Research and Anne McLaren Fellowship schemes! Join a cohort of ambitious and exceptional early-career researchers. Generous funding, research expenses, childcare costs, leadership mentoring + more. We have two schemes, each offering the same package of support: - *Anne McLaren Fellowships* are aimed at outstanding female postdoctoral researchers in science, technology, engineering and medicine, who are at the early stage of their academic careers and wish to establish a research career in the UK - *Nottingham Research Fellowships* are aimed at outstanding postdoctoral researchers who are at the early stage of their academic careers from all academic disciplines represented at the university We offer: - three years’ independent research funding, covering salary costs at c. £40,000-49,000 - *the link to a permanent academic post, subject to performance* - additional funding for research expenses totalling £75,000 - childcare costs of up to £15,000 - access to mentoring, career development and networking with the wider fellowship community Find out more at: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/researchwithus/fellowships/nottingham… Nottingham “the home of MRI” offers an excellent environment for imaging ( https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/beacons-of-excellence/precision-imagi… and https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/groups/spmic/index.aspx ), is pioneering the use of neurotechnology for brain disorders ( http://mindtech.org.uk/ ), hosts the Institute of Mental Health ( https://www.institutemh.org.uk ), and has a large group of faculty members including four full professors (Stephen Coombes, Mark van Rossum, Mark Humphries, Marcus Kaiser) in the area of computational/mathematical neuroscience. Please contact me if you want to find out more about how your research might fit in with our priorities of connectomics, brain stimulation, neurotechnology, neuroimaging, and computational/mathematical neuroscience. Best, Marcus -- *Marcus Kaiser, Ph.D. FRSB* @ConnectomeLab <https://twitter.com/ConnectomeLab> *Professor of Neuroinformatics* *Precision Imaging Beacon, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham* Guanci Visiting Professor Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China Book: Changing Connectomes https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/changing-connectomes Lab website: http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/ Neuroinformatics UK: http://www.neuroinformatics.org.uk/

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PhD position: Molecular basis of synaptic plasticity and consolidation
by Fauth, Michael Aug. 18, 2021

Aug. 18, 2021

Apologies for cross-postings. The Institute of Biophysics at the Georg-August-Universität Göttingen is looking to fill a Ph.D. position (German Salary Scale TV-L E13, 66% of 39.8 weekly hours) for 3 years to work on theoretical models of the molecular underpinnings of (structural) synaptic plasticity and consolidation. This post is designed to foster young researchers and give the successful applicant the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree. The position should be filled by September 15th 2021 or soon thereafter. Suitable candidates should hold a Master in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science or comparable subjects, preferably with some additional experiences in Computational Neuroscience, Geometrical Modeling and Stochastic Processes. We expect excellent mathematical and coding skills (e.g., Python, Matlab, C++) as well as skills in scientific communication (including proficiency in English). The candidate should be curious, highly motivated, self-organized, and show a keen interest to work in a lively research team, collaborate with experimental research labs and to perform leading-edge research. The positions will be affiliated with the groups of Dr. Michael Fauth and Prof Florentin Wörgötter, who are investigating the emergence of stable behavior like memory and computation in the presence of a continuously changing biological substrate (see, e.g., Fauth & van Rossum, eLife, 2019; Bonilla-Quintana et al., Scientific Reports 2021). The aim of the research project is to model the dynamics of the synaptic scaffolding protein actin as well as its influence on synapse geometry during and after synaptic plasticity, exploring a possible molecular mechanism for the consolidation of synaptic changes. The project is embedded in and funded through the Collaborative Research Center 1286 “Quantitative Synaptology” (German Science Foundation). Consequently, the successful candidate will also be involved and pursue an active collaboration with experimental partners within the CRC. The Göttingen Campus is a leading center of neuroscience in Europe hosting numerous internationally renowned research institutions, including the University and its Medical Center, the three life science Max Planck Institutes, the European Neuroscience Institute, the German Primate Center, and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN) Göttingen. For more information, consult the official announcement at https://www.uni-goettingen.de/de/2794.html?cid=15701

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Call for papers: Symposium on Mathematics of Neuroscience
by Ruairidh McLennan Battleday Aug. 17, 2021

Aug. 17, 2021

Symposium on the Mathematics of Neuroscience. ICNAAM, Rhodes, 20-26th September 2021. Two decades into the 21st century, can we claim to be any closer to a unified model of the brain? In this exploratory symposium, we invite submissions for short talks and posters presenting general mathematical models of brain function. We give priority to those models that account for brain or behavioural data, or provide simulations to that effect. The symposium will be held at the applied mathematics conference ICNAAM 2021, to be held virtually and in person on the island of Rhodes, Greece from the 20-26th of September 2021 (www.neuromonster.org) Submission is by 250-word abstract before the 30th August, sent to the organizers Prof Dan V. Nicolau Jr (dan.nicolau(a)qut.edu.au) and Dr Ruairidh M. Battleday ( battleday(a)princeton.edu) -- Dr. Ruairidh McLennan Battleday, BMBCh (Oxon) MA Cognitive Science Fellow Computational Cognitive Science Lab, Department of Computer Science Princeton University Department of Statistics St John's College University of Oxford

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Assistant Professor in Cognitive Neuroscience of Aging at UC Riverside
by Aaron Seitz Aug. 16, 2021

Aug. 16, 2021

Cognitive Neuroscience of Aging in the UCR Psychology Department Tenure-Track Assistant Professor The Department of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position with a focus on Cognitive Neuroscience of Aging beginning July 1, 2022. We seek applicants who investigate individual differences, as well as diverse populations, in cognitive and neural mechanisms of aging. We are particularly interested in candidates whose research will benefit from the social, ethnic, and linguistic diversity of Southern California’s aging population. Specific topics of research can address any area of cognitive psychology that will add to or complement our existing research specializations in perception, action, learning, memory, language, and experience-driven change. We are further interested in candidates whose research includes quantitative methods such as computational neuroscience; uses neuroimaging methodologies; makes connections between human, animal, and computational perspectives of cognition; and/or makes connections with the Developmental, Social/Personality, and/or Behavioral Neuroscience areas of the Department. Applicants should be committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, and interest in teaching courses related to cognitive neuroscience, aging, cognition, and quantitative methods is desirable. Review of applications will begin on 11/15/2021 and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates who apply by this date will be given full consideration. The University of California, Riverside is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate and graduate student body (http://diversity.ucr.edu/)<http://diversity.ucr.edu/>. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification. The department is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and a demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for underrepresented students. The campus is surrounded by mountain ranges and is only an hour away from ski slopes, surfing, and hiking in mountain and desert environments. It boasts a fully-accredited child care facility and maintains a commitment to “family friendly” policies and programs. A Ph.D. in psychology, neuroscience or a related discipline is required at the time of appointment, and relevant postdoctoral experience and significant publications are expected. Salary level will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Advancement through the faculty ranks at the University of California is through a series of structured, merit-based evaluations, occurring every 2-3 years, each of which includes substantial peer input. Applications must include a cover letter, curriculum vita, statements of research and teaching interests, reprints and preprints, a statement of contributions to diversity, and three letters of recommendation. All application materials must be submitted through AP Recruit at: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF01442. For more information about the position, please contact the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Aaron Seitz, Department of Psychology, at aseitz(a)ucr.edu<mailto:aseitz@ucr.edu>. UCR is a world-class research university with an exceptionally diverse undergraduate student body. Its mission is explicitly linked to providing routes to educational success for underrepresented and first-generation college students. A commitment to this mission is a preferred qualification. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. -Aaron ************************************************** Aaron Seitz, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology Director of UCR Brain Game Center Director of UCR Aging Initiative Campbell Endowed Term Chair for Research Excellence and Undergraduate Research Mentoring University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521 Ph: (951) 827-6422 Fax: (951) 827-3985 Email: aseitz(a)ucr.edu<mailto:aseitz@ucr.edu> Web: http://faculty.ucr.edu/~aseitz/ BGC: http://braingamecenter.ucr.edu<http://braingamecenter.ucr.edu/> **************************************************

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Call For Participation - Workshop on Spatio-temporal Aspects of Embodied Predictive Processing - StEPP @ ICDL2021 - 22.08.2021
by Stefan Heinrich Aug. 15, 2021

Aug. 15, 2021

Call For Participation - Workshop on Spatio-temporal Aspects of Embodied Predictive Processing - StEPP @ IEEE ICDL2021 Schedule and Venue Date: 22. August 2021, 13:30-18:00h (GMT+8) Location: Online (Details will be announced on the website) All details and full schedule: https://sites.google.com/view/stepp21 Aims and Scope: Understanding human intelligence and building strong AI systems is a key challenge for our generation. A particularly puzzling aspect is that the human brain seems to cope very well with the highly variable and uncertain nature of perception and action, regarding both their signal characteristic and how they extend over time. Furthermore, it seems apparent that the information processing in the brain always involves previous bodily experiences and all our senses, thus is embodied and crossmodal. For explaining these characteristics, there are strong accounts that the brain is constantly predicting sensory input and feedback while minimising free energy in the prediction and is hierarchically abstracting the perception as well as hierarchically composing action. Furthermore, it is also hypothesised that mechanistic priors in the brain’s information processing induce a failure of hierarchical inference in the brain, accounting for atypical perception and action of psychiatric disorders. For example, some brains might have developed to focus too strongly on current sensory input while others might focus too strongly on memorised previous experience. A typically developed brain, in contrast, would show a fine balance compared to these two extreme priors. The big open mystery is: how is the brain developing this on a mechanistic level and thus how can this get learned within an AI system? Thus, to lift this mystery, we further need to bring together research from computational neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and artificial intelligence. With this workshop, we particularly want to wrap up different recent hypotheses, models, and experiments and discuss in-depth how to shape future imaging, behavioural, and developmental robotics studies as a complement to computational modelling and bio-inspired artificial intelligent algorithms. As a guiding theme, we aim to approach the following central questions: - How does the brain learn spatio-temporal stochasticity in perception and action? - What is the role of priors in learning spatio-temporal adaptive prediction? - How can developmental robotics help us to study spatio-temporal stochasticity as an analogy to infant learning? We examine these questions with the insight from invited key speakers from complementary fields as well as original contributions in breakout sessions in order to conclude the next steps within a panel discussion. Keynotes/Panellists and topics: - Jun Tani, Cognitive Neurorobotics, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) An analysis of meta-level cognitive processes of a variational recurrent neural network model when acting with the environment. - Marcel van Gerven, Artificial Cognitive Systems, Donders Institute, Radboud University How can the brain match the unreasonable effectiveness of backpropagation? - Takuya Isomura, Brain Intelligence Theory, RIKEN Center for Brain Science Reverse engineering Bayesian aspect of canonical neural networks. - Takamitsu Watanabe, Brain Network Dynamics, International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), The University of Tokyo Global and local brain dynamics underlying typical and atypical human intelligence. Organisers: Stefan Heinrich, IRCN, The University of Tokyo, Japan Shingo Murata, Dept. Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Keio University, Japan Yukie Nagai, IRCN & Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Japan Yuichi Yamashita, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan -- ************************************************************* Dr. Stefan Heinrich Postdoctoral Project Researcher Cognitive Developmental Robotics Lab The University of Tokyo, Institutes for Advanced Studies, International Research Center for Neurointelligence Email: heinrich.stefan(a)ircn.jp https://developmental-robotics.jp/en/members/stefan_heinrich/ https://ircn.jp/en/ https://stefanheinrich.net/ *************************************************************

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[jobs] Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence Sheffield Hallam University - College of Business, Technology and Engineering - Department of Computing
by Di Nuovo, Alessandro Aug. 13, 2021

Aug. 13, 2021

Closing date 22/08/21 at 23:30 We are seeking an outstanding individual who can make a strong academic contribution in Cognitive Computing and Intelligent Systems. You will join a large and vibrant Computing Department that is engaged in both teaching and research. The teaching and research activities in Computing are consistent with the University aims of being the leading applied university in the UK and deliver practical knowledge, skills and solutions that meet the needs of employers and society. Your main duties and responsibilities will include: * Design, develop and deliver teaching across a wide range of modules and within artificial intelligence. * Contribute to the research and innovation in artificial intelligence by publishing high-quality outputs, applying for funding, and undertaking knowledge transfer projects. We would be particularly interested in any candidate with experience of artificial intelligence and robotics. You must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant subject and possess excellent communication skills. Teaching experience at undergraduate level, is essential, including developing excellent teaching materials and assessments, delivering lectures and tutorials, supervising dissertations as well as assessing and marking student work. It is expected that the successful candidate will contribute to module and course developments, and therefore having knowledge and experience of course development would be beneficial. An excellent research record and reputation, including publications of the highest quality suitable for submission to the REF (UK Research Excellence Framework), would be advantageous. Applications from people with strong backgrounds in cognitive computing and experience of programming in Python, C++, ROS and Tensorflow (or similar) would also be desirable. More information: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/CIE152/lecturer-senior-lecturer-in-artificial-in… Alessandro Di Nuovo, PhD Professor of Machine Intelligence Leader of Technological and Digital Innovations, Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre College of Business, Technology and Engineering Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom Email: a.dinuovo(a)shu.ac.uk<mailto:a.dinuovo@shu.ac.uk>

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