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AMAM 2019, Adaptive motion in animals and machines, Aug 19-23 2019, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
by Auke Ijspeert Sept. 20, 2018

Sept. 20, 2018

AMAM 2019, Adaptive Motion in Animals and Machines, Aug 19-23 2019, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland https://amam2019.epfl.ch/ Mark the date and first call for abstracts Investigating how animals and humans excel at adaptive movements can help engineers to improve the adaptive capabilities of robots. In return, robots can serve as scientific tools to explore the basic principles of biological systems, in particular the neuromechanical mechanisms underlying their fascinating motor abilities. AMAM 2019 is the 9th international symposium dedicated to stimulate fruitful interactions among biologists and engineers interested in adaptive motion. It aims at bringing together researchers in robotics, biomechanics, neuroscience, sports science, and other fields related to motor behavior in biological and artificial systems. Previous symposia were held in Montreal, Canada (2000); Kyoto, Japan (2003); Ilmenau, Germany (2005); Cleveland, USA (2008); Awaji, Japan (2011); Darmstadt, Germany (2013); Cambridge, USA (2015); and Sapporo, Japan (2017). Abstract contributions are invited from all areas pertaining to adaptive motion in animals and machines. Accepted abstracts are presented in either oral or poster sessions based on assessed suitability by the program committee. Invited talks and some selected speakers will be presented in oral sessions in a single track. We also encourage participants to contribute hardware demonstrations, as part of the ‘Robot Zoo’@AMAM2019. Important dates: * Jan 18th, 2019 Opening of the extended abstract submission * March 8th, 2019 Deadline of extended abstracts submission * April 12th, 2019 Notification of acceptance for extended abstracts * May 31st, 2019 Deadline of submission for Robot Zoo (Robot Demos) * August 19-23, 2019 Conference Program Committee: * Hitoshi Aonuma, Hokkaido University, Japan * Jordan Boyle, Leeds University, UK * Monica Daley, Royal Veterinary College, UK * Koh Hosoda, Osaka University, Japan * Fumiya Iida, Cambridge, UK * Auke Ijspeert, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland * Akio Ishiguro, Tohoku University, Japan * Masato Ishikawa, Osaka University, Japan * Takeshi Kano, Tohoku University, Japan * Sangbae Kim, MIT, USA * Jun Nishii, Yamaguchi University, Japan * Dai Owaki, Tohoku University, Japan * Andre Seyfarth, TU Darmstadt, Germany * Emily Standen, University of Ottawa, Canada * Dagmar Sternad, Northeastern University, USA * Barry Trimmer, Tufts University, USA * Eric Tytell, Tufts University, USA * Hartmut Witte, TU Ilmenau, Germany General Chair: * Auke Ijspeert, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Prof Auke Jan Ijspeert Biorobotics Laboratory EPFL-STI-IBI-BIOROB, ME D1 1226, Station 9 EPFL, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland Office: ME D1 1226 Tel: +41 21 693 2658 Fax: +41 21 693 3705 www:http://biorob.epfl.ch Email:Auke.Ijspeert@epfl.ch -----------------------------------------------------------------

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Postdoctoral researchers - multimodal fMRI
by Alessandro Gozzi Sept. 20, 2018

Sept. 20, 2018

The Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto, Italy, is seeking postdoctoral researchers interested in studying the neural basis of connectivity disruption in brain disorders. Our research, funded by the European Research Council (ERC - project "DisConn"), is aimed at identifying the general neural and cellular principles governing the assembly of spontaneous neural activity, and its breakdown in developmental disorders. We address these questions at the level of identified cell types by combining cutting-edge functional MRI methods with neural manipulations in the living mouse. This research sits at the intersection of computational neuroscience, neurobiology and neuroimaging. The successful candidate will have a PhD in neuroscience, biotechnology, computer science, physics, or equivalent. Training in experimental neuroscience is desirable, but not mandatory. The IIT center in Rovereto (http://cncs.iit.it/) is actively expanding its infrastructure and space for system-level neuroscience research. The center is inserted both in the vibrant community of the IIT (http://www.iit.it) and of the CIMeC center of the University of Trento (http://www.cimec.unitn.it) which specializes in cognitive neuroscience. Rovereto is conveniently located near Trento and Verona, two of the most important "Citta d'Arte" in Italy. The Trentino area is a region of Northern Italy nestled in the Dolomite Mountains, offering spectacular natural beauty, vibrant culture and exceptional quality of life. Please send your application (full CV, research statement, and names of 2 referees) by email to mailto:alessandro.gozzi@iit.it. Applications will be examined until the positions are filled. https://www.iit.it/careers/openings/opening/846-postdoctoral-positions-in-n… Alessandro Gozzi, PhD Senior Scientist, Group Leadel Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems @ UNITN Corso Bettini 31, 38068 Rovereto, Italy Tel: +39 0464 808 701

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PhD studentship in "Computational modelling of cryopreservation"
by roman bauer Sept. 19, 2018

Sept. 19, 2018

*We are seeking a PhD student with excellent programming skills and an interest in biology. The studentship will be based at Newcastle University (UK) and benefit from collaboration with CERN.* Interested in computers as well as biology? Then this project might be what you are looking for! The aim is to use novel software and high-performance computers to model how biological tissue, including neural tissue, behaves during freezing and thawing. Cryopreservation of biological tissue is in its infancy. State-of-the-art freezing and thawing techniques lead to tissue damage in anything larger than 1-3 mm3. Above-freezing storage times of human organs range from approximately 3 to 24 hours - depending on organ - before becoming unviable. This lack of preservation capacity results in 2/3 of donor hearts and 4/5 of lungs being rejected for transplant for logistical reasons. By improving our knowledge of how cryogenic processing affects biological/neural tissue, new methodologies for cryogenic processing will be studied. To this end, you will work together with experts in the field, learn to incorporate the results in detailed 3D computer simulations, and produce novel hypotheses that will generate better methodologies. For informal enquiries please contact Dr Roman Bauer (roman.bauer(a)ncl.ac.uk ). Further details on this PhD studentship and how to apply can be found via this link: *https://www.findaphd.com/search/ProjectDetails.aspx?PJID=100152 <https://www.findaphd.com/search/ProjectDetails.aspx?PJID=100152>*

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Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Computational Neuroscience - Ref 80046
by Chris Miall Sept. 19, 2018

Sept. 19, 2018

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Computational Neuroscience - Ref. 80046 The School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham wishes to strengthen our School with the appointment of a Lecturer/Senior Lecturer with specific expertise in computational modelling. The School is continuing to recruit as a result of outstanding performance in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) and major investment provided to the School by the University. The School The School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham (http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/psychology/index.aspx) is one of the largest and most successful in the UK, currently ranked in the top 5 Schools in the country (REF 2014). The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from currently under-represented groups. The School of Psychology has a Bronze Athena SWAN award and strives to maintain a flexible and supportive environment that enables its staff to flourish. Role purpose We welcome applicants whose research expertise will complement and extend any of our existing four Research Themes: Perception, Cognition, and Action; Mental Health and Wellbeing; Language, Interaction, and Social Cognition; Memory and Attention. One strategic objective for the School is to build on the strength of our Centre for Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics, and so we particularly welcome applicants with strength in computational science approaches, including machine learning, Bayesian modelling, and computational models of perception, categorisation and attention. We will consider a joint appointment with the School of Computer Science, which has staff whose research expertise complement and extend those of Psychology. Closing Date: 28 Oct 2018 A full job description is available in PDF format here: http://www.download.bham.ac.uk/vacancies/jd/80046.pdf -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Professor R.C. Miall Hills Building Tel +44 121 414 2867 School of Psychology, Fax +44 121 414 4897 University of Birmingham, Mobile: 07709 586997 Edgbaston, Email: r.c.miall(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:r.c.miall@bham.ac.uk> Birmingham B15 2TT UK Web: http://prism.bham.ac.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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NEURON Course at SFN 2018
by Ted Carnevale Sept. 18, 2018

Sept. 18, 2018

The registration deadline for the NEURON course at the SFN 2018 meeting is Friday, October 12--less than a month from now. The online registration form is at https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/sd2018/sd2018.html This course is suitable for applicants with a wide range of interests and expertise, ranging from experimentalists who have never done any computational modeling, to advanced modelers who want to know the latest tips for using NEURON with Python. Topics that will be covered include: --using Python and NEURON's graphical tools to build and work with models of individual cells --using the Import3d tool to import detailed anatomical neuronal data from NeuroLucida and SWC files --using the CellBuilder to specify the biophysical properties of model cells with detailed anatomical structure --expanding NEURON's library of ion channels and other biophysical mechanisms --analyzing models with the Model View tool --building network models --speeding up simulations on parallel hardware --Ted

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PhD student position in Decision Making, Sorbonne Universite, Paris (B. Girard, O. Davidenko)
by Benoît Girard Sept. 18, 2018

Sept. 18, 2018

Fully funded PhD: Cognitive and computational neurosciences studies to decipher how the social context affects individual food decisions Institution: Sorbonne Université (Paris, France) Disciplins: Computational Neurosciences, Behavioral Neuroscience, Brain Imaging Hosting laboratory: ISIR, Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et de Robotique (SU/CNRS) Thesis Supervisors: Benoît Girard (ISIR, UPMC/CNRS) , supervisor Olga Davidenko (INRA/AgroParisTech/UPSay PNCA), co-supervisor Starting date: fall 2018 Key Words: Reinforcement learning, Human eating behavior, Brain imaging Scientific environment of the project: Excessive intake of sugars and salt are linked to deleterious consequences on Human health. Current strategies to design and favor healthier options have limited effects due to their poor acceptability. SHIFT proposes a multidisciplinary approach, combining life, social and computer sciences to understand the determinants, mechanisms, and levers to modulate the acceptability of a meal option. This project will address precise alimentary situations where margins of improvement with respect to salt and sugar reduction are possible, ie. acceptability of (i) water or low energy beverages in substitution of sodas and (ii) sugar- or salt-reduced options at the end of main meals. Interdisciplinary research activities will be conducted at the populational, contextual and individual scales to decipher criteria driving the acceptability foods. SHIFT gathers 5 academic partners: The “Physiologie de la Nutrition et du Comportement Alimentaire” lab (UMR PNCA; INRA-AgroParisTech-Université Paris-Saclay, project leader), the “Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et de Robotique” (ISIR, Sorbonne Université-CNRS-INSERM), the “Mathématiques et Informatique Appliquées” lab (UMR MIA; INRA-AgroParisTech-Université Paris-Saclay), the “Alimentation et Sciences Sociales” lab (ALISS; INRA), the School of Psychology of the University of Birmingham and an industrial partner: Danone Nutricia Research (Global Nutrition Department) Work Programme: In the selection of foods as in many other decision processes, individuals tend to conform to social norms (i.e. a collectively-established acceptable behaviour). For instance, when eating with others, if individuals are offered to choose between two foods, they will take the decision that conforms to the choices made by the others guests. In some cases, for instance when all guests need to make a choice within a very short time lapse, there might be an uncertainty on this social norm. Before making their decision, individuals infer the appropriate choice from the available information of the choices made by others and after taking their decision, subjects judge the appropriateness of their own decision the basis of the overall choices of commensals. The acceptability of a food option is modulated by whether or not it is imitated by the commensals. The aim of this thesis is to explore how the social context affects individual decisions. The student will study the question from the point of view of the individual: what are the contributions of various types of social modulation (imitation, conformity to a social norm) to food choices? Fundamental to every decision is the brain’s ability to internally evaluate subjective values. The theoretical framework of this thesis, the “value-based decision-making” (Pessiglione et al., 2006, Johnson & Ratcliff, 2014), suggests that, although from an external point of view, the outcome of a decision can be reduced to a binary phenomenon (acceptance or rejection) the underlying mental computation of the value is represented as a continuous function. Our working hypotheses are that the aforementioned social modulations to food choices can be integrated in an individual-centric modeling approach of decision-making (as has been shown in simpler contexts by Burke et al. (2010)), that the influences of these various types of modulations can be disentangled, so as to help identifying the possibly specific neural substrates. In this thesis, we will design a behavioural task dedicated to investigate the different causes of social modulations, and we will then explore which brain circuits are involved, using fMRI. We will use the theoretical tools of value-based decision-making to model the mechanisms by which social modulations affect decision. This will allow us to derive time series of internal variables of the model as regressors to refine the analysis of fMRI data. The student will work to establish a fully specified model of a decision task incorporating mathematical formalizations of the social modulations. The model will be based on the so-called model-free reinforcement learning algorithms (Sutton & Barto, 1998), to which additional value update modalities will be added in order to take into account the influence of commensals. Burke, C.J., Tobler, P.N., Baddeley, M., and Schultz, W. (2010). Neural mechanisms of observational learning. PNAS 201003111. Johnson, E.J., and Ratcliff, R. (2014). Chapter 3 - Computational and Process Models of Decision Making in Psychology and Behavioral Economics. In Neuroeconomics (Second Edition), P.W. Glimcher, and E. Fehr, eds. (San Diego: Academic Press), pp. 35–47. Pessiglione, M., Seymour, B., Flandin, G., Dolan, R.J., and Frith, C.D. (2006). Dopamine-dependent prediction errors underpin reward-seeking behaviour in humans. Nature 442, 1042–1045. Sutton, R. S., & Barto, A. G. (1998). Reinforcement learning: An introduction. MIT press. To apply Applicants should send a CV, letter of motivation (max 2 pages), and references via e-mail to benoit.girard(a)sorbonne-universite.fr and olga.davidenko(a)agroparistech.fr, with [SHIFT] in the subject of the mail. Review of applicants will begin immediately, and will continue until the position is filled. The earliest start date is November 2018. -- Benoît Girard, ISIR, UPMC/CNRS Pyramide T55/65, CC 173 4 place Jussieu, 75252 Paris Cedex http://people.isir.upmc.fr/girard/ Submit your replications to ReScience: https://rescience.github.io/

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1-year position for an engineer to work in Parkinson, in the frontiers of imaging and machine learning (Bilbao, Spain)
by Jesus Cortes Sept. 18, 2018

Sept. 18, 2018

We are looking for an Engineer with skills in computer vision, programming and machine learning to collaborate in the research project entitled: "Study of the retina and the visual pathway by neuroimaging in genetic and aggressive idiopathic synucleinopathies as a model to identify phenotypes and prognostic biomarkers in idiopathic Parkinson's disease" (Principal Investigator: Iñigo Gabilondo, MD, PhD) led by the Neurodegenerative Diseases Group. The data to analyse are multimodal and longitudinal, with a sample size bigger than N=100 and consisting in retina OCT, neuroimaging (structural, functional, tensor tensor and spectroscopy), neuropsychology and clinical scales. The engineer also will work in close collaboration with the Computational Neuroimaging Group, led by Prof. Jesus M Cortes. For further information about the groups, visit: https://biocrucesbizkaia.org/web/biocruces/bc5.01and https://biocrucesbizkaia.org/bc5.08 Requirements: - Bachelor of Engineering - Good academic marks (average score higher than 7 over 10) - Experience in computer vision, programming j(Matlab, Python and / or R), machine learning and other artificial intelligence techniques - Experience with the magnetic resonance imaging analysis packages SPM, FSL and Freesurfer - Advanced English level (demonstrable with official degree - C1) - Intention to develop a PhD in Biomedicine. The contract is for 1 year, but exists the possibility to extend it to finalize the PhD Working conditions: - Duration: 12 months (extendable) - Full working day (100%) (1592 annual hours) - Estimated annual gross salary: 23,004 euros per year - Expected start date: As soon as possible Interested candidates send 2 reference letters and updated CV to igabilon(a)gmail.com and/orjesus.m.cortes(a)gmail.com

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Postdoc position: Computational modelling & primate neurophysiology of multi-stable perception
by jobraun Sept. 17, 2018

Sept. 17, 2018

Postdoc position: Computational modelling & primate neurophysiology of multi-stable perception Applications are invited for a postdoctoral fellowship with Jochen Braun in Magdeburg, Germany, and in collaboration with Kristine Krug in Oxford, UK. The research will examine the neural basis of multi-stable perception, by comparing single- and multi-unit recordings from non-human primates with computational models of hierarchical neural dynamics. Candidates must have a degree in physics (or similar), a Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., neuroscience, physiology, physics), and strong quantitative and writing skills. Experience with single- or multi-unit recordings from behaving vertebrates is highly desirable. The initial appointment will be for two years with the possibility of renewal. Cognitive Biology is part of a large and vibrant neuroscience community (www.neuroscience-magdeburg.de/research/professor-jazz) Magdeburg is a lively university town with a beautiful historical centre around the river Elbe and with convenient transport links to Leipzig and Berlin. To apply, please send a PDF file with a CV, a statement of research interests, and names of two references to jochen.braun(a)ovgu.de. Prof. Jochen Braun, Ph.D. Cognitive Biology Group Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany www.kobi-ovgu.de Prof. Kristine Krug, D.Phil. Dept. Physiology Anatomy & Genetics University of Oxford Oxford, UK www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/research/krug-group

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PhD positions in machine learning/neuroimaging available at Charité - University Medicine Berlin
by Stefan Haufe Sept. 16, 2018

Sept. 16, 2018

Dear all, PhD positions for highly motivated graduate students are available in the ERC funded research group of Stefan Haufe at the Berlin Center for Advanced Neuroimaging (BCAN) of the Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Germany. The group will develop machine learning and signal processing methods for the analysis of non-invasive brain signals (primarily EEG/MEG) and apply these methods to patient data with the aim of better understanding neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s disease. Appointments can be made for up to four years starting from January 2019 or later. Remuneration is based on the German pay scale TVL E13 (65% working time). Candidates are required to hold a very good MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant field and are expected to demonstrate extraordinary skills in at least one of the following core areas A: Mathematics and quantitative data analysis/modeling (machine learning, signal processing, statistics, numerical optimization, etc.). Experience with efficient algorithms and large data sets. B: Neuroscience (psychology, cognitive science). Knowledge of general research practices and experience in the design, execution, and statistical evaluation of studies. C: Computer science. Experience in software development, programming in Matlab/Python/C, system administration. Further required are excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken), and a genuine interest in interdisciplinary work. Prior experience with functional neuroimaging data is a plus. Successful candidates will work at Charité's historic Mitte campus in the center of Berlin, and will be embedded in a stimulating research environment. Applications should be sent by email to stefan.haufe(a)charite.de quoting the reference number DM.143.18b. In addition to cv and cover letter, applicants are encouraged to include further documentation such as references, transcripts, copies of bachelor/master theses/research papers (in English or German), links to github repositories, etc. . All documents should be contained in a single pdf.

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Postdoctoral Position in Visual & Computational Neuroscience
by Burge, Johannes Sept. 15, 2018

Sept. 15, 2018

A NIH-funded postdoctoral position is available in the lab of Johannes Burge at the University of Pennsylvania (http://burgelab.psych.upenn.edu) We use natural images, statistical learning tools, ideal observer analysis, and behavioral experiments to gain a precise understanding of the processes that support perception. We have ongoing projects across a range of topics in vision and computational neuroscience, but we tend to focus on projects directly or indirectly related to motion and depth perception. My lab is affiliated with the Computational Neuroscience Initiative at Penn, a community of top researchers working on an array of problems in sensation, perception, and cognition. Strong mathematical and programming skills are necessary, as well as strong communication skills and a record of research productivity. Familiarity designing and running psychophysical experiments via Matlab is also required. A solid background in computer graphics and knowledge of C/C++ and object oriented programming is also desirable. The lab has a high refresh-rate VPixx ProPixx projector, a haploscope driven by two high-resolution VPixx ViewPixx monitors, and a large suite of custom code for statistical learning and for the analysis of psychometric data. Applicants must have finished their Ph.D. in neuroscience, vision science, engineering, computer science, or related fields and have a demonstrated record of research productivity. The position is available immediately but the precise start date is flexible. Applicants should send a brief statement of interest, CV, and the names of three references to Johannes Burge (jburge(a)sas.upenn.edu<mailto:jburge@sas.upenn.edu>). Letters will be requested if your candidacy is being considered. Applications will be assessed as they arrive and the position will remain open until filled. Salary will be based on NIH post-doctoral rates and commensurate with experience. ======================== Johannes Burge, PhD Assistant Professor Department of Psychology Neuroscience Graduate Group University of Pennsylvania http://burgelab.psych.upenn.edu jburge(a)sas.upenn.edu (215) 573 6528

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Computer Models in 3R Research
by Peter Jedlicka Sept. 15, 2018

Sept. 15, 2018

Dear colleagues, The programme and further information for the Kick-off Symposium of the 3R Centre JLU Giessen are available online at ICAR3R.de. The minisymposium covers also the topic of computer models in 3R research. You can register on the event website or at www.xing-events.com/3R-Symposium-Giessen.html. Abstracts for the 3R poster session can be submitted until 20th September at ICAR3R(a)uni-giessen.de. 1st International Symposium: New Prospects in Interdisciplinary 3R Research Date 18th/19th October 2018 Venue Aula at Justus Liebig University Gießen Registration fee is 90 Euro. Eight hours of training are granted for the event. Best regards, Peter Jedlicka -- Peter Jedlicka, MD, PhD Professorship for Computer-Based Modelling in the field of 3R Animal Protection Faculty of Medicine Justus-Liebig-University Rudolf-Buchheim-Str. 6 D-35392 Giessen Fax: ++49 (0)641 9941359 Interdisciplinary Centre for 3Rs in Animal Research (ICAR3R) Frankfurter Straße 104 35392 Gießen www.ICAR3R.de

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PhD position: US-German Collaboration in Computational Neuroscience
by Peter Jedlicka Sept. 14, 2018

Sept. 14, 2018

Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD position in an NIH & BMBF funded US-Germany project aimed at creating biophysically realistic multi-scale computer models of TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation)-induced changes of neuronal and synaptic properties. The position will be based at the Justus Liebig University (Giessen). This project is in collaboration with the University of Freiburg, the University of Minnesota and the Temple University (Philadelphia). The student will be using computer simulations to reproduce/predict data from electrophysiology and functional optical imaging experiments in hippocampal tissue cultures. Visits to Freiburg and to US for short-term and long-term periods of time to learn techniques and exchange information are part of the activities of this grant. The successful candidate should have a background in physics, mathematics, engineering, computational neuroscience or closely related field. Experience in scientific programming is highly desirable. The appointment will be starting in November/December 2018 or in 2019. Please submit a single pdf file including CV, list of publications, statement of research interests and names and email addresses of three references to: Prof. Dr. Peter Jedlicka; Peter.Jedlicka(a)informatik.med.uni-giessen.de The project is related to these recent publications: Lenz M, Galanis C, Müller-Dahlhaus F, Opitz A, Wierenga CJ, Szabó G, Ziemann U, Deller T, Funke K, Vlachos A (2016) Repetitive magnetic stimulation induces plasticity of inhibitory synapses. Nature Communications 7:10020 Beining M, Mongiat LA, Schwarzacher SW, Cuntz H, Jedlicka P (2017) T2N as a new tool for robust electrophysiological modeling demonstrated for mature and adult-born dentate granule cells. Elife 6:e26517 Lenz M, Platschek S, Priesemann V, Becker D, Willems LM, Ziemann U, Deller T, Müller-Dahlhaus F, Jedlicka P, Vlachos A (2015) Repetitive magnetic stimulation induces plasticity of excitatory postsynapses on proximal dendrites of cultured mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons. Brain Structure & Function 220:3323–3337. P.S. If you are interested and will be attending Bernstein Conference in Berlin (27, 28 September), feel free to send me an email so that we can meet for an in-person interview. -- Peter Jedlicka, MD, PhD Professorship for Computer-Based Modelling in the field of 3R Animal Protection Faculty of Medicine Justus-Liebig-University Rudolf-Buchheim-Str. 6 D-35392 Giessen Phone: ++49 (0)69 179 238 6269 Fax: ++49 (0)641 9941359 NeuroScience Center Clinical Neuroanatomy (Anatomy I) Goethe-University Theodor-Stern-Kai 7 D-60590 Frankfurt am Main Fax: ++49 (69) 6301 6425 Email: jedlicka(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de

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Post-doc at FIAS - Computational Modeling of Epilepsy: Conducting Interviews at the Bernstein Conference 2018
by Peter Jedlicka Sept. 14, 2018

Sept. 14, 2018

Dear Comp-Neuro community, I would like to inform you that a post-doc position will be available in 2019 in the context of Frankfurt's new Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER). The project focuses on better understanding circuit changes and neuroimmune interactions during the development of epilepsy and is jointly lead by Prof. Jochen Triesch and me. I am attending the Bernstein Conference in Berlin (September 27-28). If you are interested, contact me by email and attach your CV so that we can meet for an in-person interview. Best, Peter Jedlicka P.S. If you are not attending the Bernstein conference, you can send your applications (single pdf file including CV, list of publications, statement of research interests and names and email addresses of three references) to jedlicka(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de and triesch(a)fias.uni-frankfurt.de. The position will be based at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (https://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/en/) Frankfurt has a vibrant Neuroscience community and the successful candidates will work closely together with experimental labs. An ideal candidate will have obtained a PhD/Master Degree in Computational Neuroscience or closely related field and have a strong interest in applying their knowledge to problems of medical relevance. Prior experience with modeling spiking neural networks or compartmental modeling is highly desirable. Experience in modeling epilepsy, neural plasticity and neuro-immune interactions is a plus. -- Peter Jedlicka, MD, PhD Professorship for Computer-Based Modelling in the field of 3R Animal Protection Faculty of Medicine Justus-Liebig-University Rudolf-Buchheim-Str. 6 D-35392 Giessen Phone: ++49 (0)69 179 238 6269 Fax: ++49 (0)641 9941359 NeuroScience Center Clinical Neuroanatomy (Anatomy I) Goethe-University Theodor-Stern-Kai 7 D-60590 Frankfurt am Main Fax: ++49 (69) 6301 6425 Email: jedlicka(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de

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[meetings] Call for Participation : Workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning - Tokyo - September 17th
by Nguyen, Sao Mai Sept. 14, 2018

Sept. 14, 2018

*Call for Participation* Workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning at IEEE ICDL-Epirob 2018 - Tokyo - September 17th Website : http://conferences.au.dk/icdl-epirob-2018-workshop/ ============================================================ *Updated list of Invited Speakers* - Jochen Triesch, Frankfurt Institute of Advanced Studies, Germany Title: Active Efficient Coding - David Ha, Google Brain Title: Generative World Models - Kathryn Kasmarik, University of New South Wales, Australian Defence Force Academy (UNSW Canberra), Australia Title: Computational Motivation for Learning, Optimisation and Decision Making *Schedule* 09:50 – 10:10 Welcome and introduction 10:10 – 10:50 *Invited talk: **David Ha* Title: Generative World Models 10:50 – 11:10 Coffee break *Inference and Representations* 11:10 – 11:30 *Where do I move my sensors? Emergence of an internal representation from the sensorimotor flow*Valentin Marcel, Sylvain Argentieri and Bruno Gas 11:30 – 11:50 *Active inference in continual learning* Pablo Lanillos *Sensorimotor Learning* 11:50 – 12:10 *Towards Biological Plausibility of Sensorimotor Learning Models: a Short Review* Silvia Pagliarini, Arthur Leblois, and Xavier Hinaut 12:10 – 12:30 *A Computational Model For Action Prediction Development* Serkan Bugur, Yukie Nagai, Erhan Oztop, and Emre Ugur *Application/Tools* 12:30 – 12:50 *Flatland: a Lightweight First-Person 2-D Environment for Reinforcement Learning* Hugo Caselles-Dupré, Louis Annabi, Oksana Hagen, Michael Garcia-Ortiz, and David Filliat 12:50 – 14:10 Lunch break 14:10 – 14:50 *Invited talk. Jochen Triesch* Title: Active Efficient Coding *Intrinsic Motivation and alike* 14:50 – 15:10 *Learning Sequences of Policies by using an Intrinsically Motivated Learner and a Task Hierarchy* Nicolas Duminy, Alexandre Manoury, Sao Mai Nguyen, Cédric Buche, and Dominique Duhaut 15:10 – 15:30 *Emergent emotion as a regulatory mechanism for a cognitive task implemented on the iCub robot* Murat Kirtay, Lorenzo Vannucci, Egidio Falotico, Cecilia Laschi, and Erhan Oztop *Application/Tools* 15:30 – 15:50 *Towards Life Long Learning: Multimodal Learning of MNIST Handwritten Digits* Eli Sheppard, Hagen Lehmann, G. Rajendran, Peter E. McKenna, Oliver Lemon, and Katrin S. Lohan 15:50 – 16:10 Coffee break 16:10 – 16:40 *Invited talk: Kathryn Kasmarik* Title: Computational Motivation for Learning, Optimisation and Decision Making 16:40 – 17:40 Discussion 17:40 – 18:00 Conclusions and farewell ============================================================ *Scope* As the algorithms for learning single tasks in restricted environments are improving, new challenges have gained relevance. They include multi-task learning, multimodal sensorimotor learning in open worlds and lifelong adaptation to injury, growth and ageing. In this workshop we will discuss the developmental processes involved in the emergence of representations of action and perception in humans and artificial agents in continual learning. These processes include action-perception cycle, active perception, continual sensory-motor learning, environmental-driven scaffolding, and intrinsic motivation. The discussion will be strongly motivated by behavioural and neural data. We hope to provide a discussion friendly environment to connect with research with similar interest regardless of their area of expertise which could include robotics, computer science, psychology, neuroscience, etc. We would also like to devise a roadmap or strategies to develop mathematical and computational models to improve robot performance and/or to attempt to unveil the underlying mechanisms that lead to continual adaptation to changing environment or embodiment and continual learning in open-ended environments. The primary list of topics covers the following (but not limited to): - Emergence of representations via continual interaction - Continual sensory-motor learning - Action-perception cycle - Active perception - Environmental-driven scaffolding - Intrinsic motivation - Neural substrates, neural circuits and neural plasticity - Human and animal behaviour experiments and models - Reinforcement learning and deep reinforcement learning for life-long learning - Multisensory robot learning - Multimodal sensorimotor learning - Affordance learning - Prediction learning *Organizers:* Nicolás Navarro-Guerrero, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark Sao Mai Nguyen, IMT Atlantique, France Erhan Öztop, Özyeğin University, Turkey Junpei Zhong, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan ============================================================ Nguyen Sao Mai nguyensmai(a)gmail.com Researcher in Cognitive Developmental Robotics http://nguyensmai.free.fr

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PhD student position in neural data analysis, University of Edinburgh (Arno Onken)
by Arno Onken Sept. 14, 2018

Sept. 14, 2018

A fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Arno Onken at the University of Edinburgh, on the development and application of novel methods for analysing multi-modal and multi-scale neural recordings. The group collaborates closely with the experimental groups of Nathalie Rochefort (University of Edinburgh, joint EPSRC-funded project to start in March) and Shuzo Sakata (University of Strathclyde). Potential projects are interdisciplinary, bridging computational neuroscience, statistical modelling and machine learning. The successful applicant will join the Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation (http://www.anc.ed.ac.uk/) which hosts strong research groups in the relevant fields. Applicants should have a strong quantitative background (e.g. math, statistics, computer science, physics, computational neuroscience), good programming skills and a keen interest in interdisciplinary research. A background in neuroscience is desirable, but not essential. The position is available to UK/EU applicants. Other excellent applicants may be eligible for international postgraduate scholarships - please get in touch. The start date is flexible. Interested applicants should submit their application to the Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation: https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/degrees/index.php?r=site/view&ed… For further information, please contact Arno Onken (aonken(a)inf.ed.ac.uk) -- The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336.

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Call for applications to participate in NSF funded Workshop on Future Frameworks of Theoretical Neuroscience
by Fidel Santamaria Sept. 13, 2018

Sept. 13, 2018

NSF Funded workshop - Future Frameworks of Theoretical Neuroscience, Feb 4-7, 2019, San Antonio, TX. Call for applications to participate: graduate students, postdoctoral fellows & junior assistant professors As it is widely known, the objective of the BRAIN initiative has been to develop novel neurotechnologies, which will provide vast streams of experimental data in the coming years. For the neuroscience community as a whole to benefit from these advances, theoretical frameworks that span across scales, systems, and species need to be developed. The main challenge for the theoretical neuroscience community is to design these frameworks with a long-term vision to anticipate and guide the development of new techniques and experiments. We view this as a collective effort. Another of our objectives is for the theoretical neuroscience community to identify leading areas of scientific inquiry, key theoretical questions, and to discuss methodological ways to address these questions. This will highly contribute to shape the future research endeavors towards the understanding of brain function across interacting levels of organization, scales, and range of species. This will also help the funding agencies to establish programs and priorities. The workshop will take place in San Antonio, TX from Feb 4-7, 2019. The NSF will cover the participant's transportation (up to $500, economy class, no upgrades) and lodging (up to 4 nights) for a selected group junior researchers. If interested, please submit a CV and two paragraphs describing the reason(s) to participate in the workshop (1 page maximum, divided into two paragraphs, one titled 'present work' and another one titled 'motivation'). While all the neuroscience community is encouraged to apply we are also looking for people outside neuroscience with fresh ideas that would like to participate. Please send your application to fidel.santamaria(a)utsa.edu<mailto:fidel.santamaria@utsa.edu> with the subject line [Framework Workshop] Application no later than October 10, 2018. As a participant, we would like you to contribute to (1) the description of the present framework(s) of theoretical neuroscience; and (2) the definition of a roadmap for the development of future theories of brain function across scales. In practice, we would like you to contribute to identifying key questions and organizing principles across scales of biological organization that share common theoretical foundations. We also would like you to interact with other participants to develop strategies to advance the field in order to "...transform our understanding of the linkages between neural activity and cognition and behavior across different systems, environments, and species." We would like to emphasize that the objective of the workshop is not to describe current projects but the ideas and theories that are yet to be developed and are needed to move the field forward. While the meeting will have a component of talks we will devote most of the time to organizing formal and informal discussions among the participants. We expect the participants to collectively produce a series of papers describing the identified fields, state of the art and present/future questions so these can reach the broader community and foster additional discussions and interactions. We will also generate a white paper to distribute to public and private funding agencies that describe our views of the future frameworks of theoretical neuroscience. More information available at http://www.utsa.edu/SantamariaLab/Workshop/ Horacio G. Rotstein (NJIT) & Fidel Santamaria (UTSA) Organizers _______________________________________________________________________________ Fidel Santamaria, PhD Associate Professor Department of Biology University of Texas at San Antonio www.utsa.edu/SantamariaLab Office: BSB 1.03.30 Tel +1(210) 458 6910

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Professorship in Auditory Neuro-Engineering (Ghent University)
by Sarah Verhulst Sept. 13, 2018

Sept. 13, 2018

Dear List, We have an opening for a research professorship in Auditory Neuro-engineering to foster interdisciplinary approaches to hearing science within the Faculties of Engineering and Medical sciences at Ghent University. The succesful candidate will become a member of the Ghent Auditory Science Platform (www.gasp.ugent.be)<http://www.gasp.ugent.be)/>. Kind Regards, Sarah Verhulst --- Sarah Verhulst Associate Professor T +32 9 33 14 844 Dept. Information Technology Waves Technology Campus, iGent, Technologiepark 15, 9052 Zwijnaarde (BE) T secretariaat +32 9 264 33 21 / F +32 9 264 35 93 www.ugent.be<https://www.ugent.be/> www.waves.intec.ugent.be e-maildisclaimer<https://helpdesk.ugent.be/e-maildisclaimer.php> More information and application: https://www.ugent.be/nl/onderzoek/carriere/21zap.htm Job Title: Professor in Auditory Neuro-engineering Req ID 11671 - Posted 12/09/2018 - Professorial staff - 100% - Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences → Apply until 12/10/2018 23:59 CET → Discipline: Auditory Neuro-engineering → 100% Associate professor / Full professor / Senior full professor → Reference number: 201806/ZAP-21/65-01 ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY Ghent University is one of the most important education and research institutions in the Low Countries. On a daily basis, over 9,000 staff members and 41,000 students implement its motto "Dare to Think". Ghent University's mission statement is characterised by qualitative education, internationally renowned research and a pluralistic social responsibility. ASSIGNMENT Within her vision on the importance of inter-disciplinary research, Ghent University wishes to stimulate cooperation between different faculties. One of the initiatives that is deployed in this context is the Ghent Auditory Science Platform (GASP; www.gasp.ugent.be) Auditory science and auditory medicine are increasingly engineering driven. Hence, GASP combines expertise from various medical and engineering disciplines with an additional touch of psychology. This inter-faculty collaboration will be supported by a full time (100%) associate or full professor in auditory neuro-engineering. The professor in auditory neuro-engineering will further develop research in auditory science at the interface between technology and neurology. The focus will be on the possibility to couple electronic and opto-electronic components more effectively to the auditory nerve, the auditory brainstem and cortex. By extending the team of professors that conducts research in the area of auditory science, Ghent University wants to strengthen its position as a leading research institute in this area. This position is part of a unique strategic investment by Ghent University: 21 new professorships are embedded in interdisciplinary consortia, designed to generate a significant societal impact with their research. For more information, see: www.ugent.be/21zap Academic education You lecture a limited number of course units in the discipline of audiology and biomedical engineering. These courses are situated in the faculty of medicine and the faculty of engineering. In addition you will be the promoter of Master dissertations and PhDs in biomedical sciences, audiology, and engineering. Academic Research You conduct research in the discipline of auditory neuro-engineering. In particular you study the interaction between human substrate – auditory nerve/brainstem/cortex – and high tech chips and electronic and opto-electronic implants. In this way you contribute to the innovation goals of the GASP team in relation to: * biological strategies for use in inner ear therapeutics: gene therapy, stem-cell therapy, and molecular therapy; * auditory nerve fiber stimulation, resynchronizing, brain-computer interfacing; * stimulating brain plasticity (e.g. post deafness, in tinnitus and/or decreased sound tolerance cases), and individualized interventions; * cochlear nerve sensing and brainstem processing (auditory processing on implanted chip); * neuro-acoustic phenotype determination allowing for personalized hearing deficit treatment when needed. Academic services You take part in the internal and external service provision of the Ghent Auditory Science Platform. PROFILE Experience * You have already conducted eminent academic research in the given discipline, which is clearly reflected in publications in high-quality academic journals and peer-reviewed books; * You are capable of initiating, supervising and acquiring the necessary funding for academic research; * You are didactically skilled to teach university students to develop academic competences; * Recommended are: * International mobility, among other things thanks to research stays at institutions external to the one where you acquired your highest academic degree; * Positively evaluated experience in provided or organized academic lecturing; * Professionalisation of education. Skills / Attitude * You are quality-oriented; * You take initiative; * You have leadership qualities; * You have good communication skills (English proficiency) and make connections with colleagues and industry. Admission requirements * You hold a thesis-based doctorate or a diploma or certificate that is recognised as equivalent (article V.20 Codex Higher Education) in biomedical sciences, biomedical engineering, medical physics, neuro-engineering, or doctorate in medicine with a strong emphasis on technical aspect, or a doctorate in electronics/ICT engineering or engineering physics/mathematics with a strong emphasis on biomedical aspects. Upon evaluation of a foreign (non-EU) diploma, a certificate of equivalence may still have to be requested at NARIC. If this is the case, we advise you to initiate this recognition procedure as soon as possible. You are required to have the recognition no later than on the date of your appointment. * You have at least two years of postdoctoral experience on 2 October 2018. This term of two years is determined by the date written on the above-mentioned required diploma. APPOINTMENT INFORMATION Depending on the specific profile of the selected candidate, the degree of associate professor or full professor is awarded. This will be decided by the University Board as proposed by the Faculty Board. * We offer you a permanent appointment in the starting grade of associate professor or full professor, without prejudice to the possibility of a temporary appointment offered in article V.28 of the Codex of Higher Education. The recruitment is possible no sooner than 1 February 2019. OUR OFFER Ghent University reserves a budget of €200.000 in its Special Research Fund for each of the newly appointed professors under the strategic “21ZAP” scheme, equaling the value of 1 PhD student for 4 years. This research budget is allocated out of competition but is subject to approval of the applicant’s research proposal by Ghent University’s Research Council. Ghent University is committed to properly welcoming new professorial staff members and offering them appropriate guidance. The basic teacher training and courses of 'Dutch' and 'English' for foreign-speaking lecturers are only a few examples of our wide range of training and education opportunities. Furthermore, each Ghent University staff member can count on a number of benefits such as a bike allowance, reimbursement of public transport commuting costs, daycare, a wide range of sports facilities and EcoCheques. A complete overview of all our employee benefits (in Dutch). Ghent University also invests in welcoming international professorial staff. It offers various housing options, a relocation bonus, the International School for school-aged children (with a discount on the tuition fee), support when registering at the City of Ghent, support with the procedure of family reunification and other administrative matters in connection with moving to Ghent. More information can be found on www.ugent.be/en/living and www.ugent.be/en/staff. GENDER AND DIVERSITY Ghent University conducts an equal opportunities policy and encourages everyone to apply. Ghent University also strives for a gender balance. Female applications are thus especially welcomed. SELECTION PROCEDURE After the final application date, all received applications will be sent to the assessment committee assembled for this vacancy. This committee will first evaluate the application files. Therefore it will match all elements of the file against the required expertise for the position in terms of education, research and scientific service. Based on this deliberation, relevant candidates will be shortlisted to be invited for further selection (interview, possible presentation or test lecture …). Afterwards, the committee will rank the suitable candidates and present this ranking to the Faculty Board. The advice of the Faculty Board will then be presented to the University Board for approval. Candidates are asked to further discuss their top 5 most important publications or other academic achievements with the highest impact. Next to academic publications, the candidate is thus also able to show merit of knowledge transfer by academic dissemination, social valorisation, public awareness, seminars or conference presentations. These competences are also taken into account when evaluating the candidates. Candidates are also asked to prepare a research proposal. The research proposal can be taken into account by the selection committee in order to assess the candidate’s potential contribution to the consortium; nevertheless, the evaluation of the proposal itself by the Research Council will not be initiated until after the professorship appointment in order to award the €200,000 research budget. The evaluation of the required international mobility is broad and partly takes the gender perspective into account, thus not only considering longer stays abroad by also other forms of internationalisation. Pregnancy leave, prolonged sick leave, parental leave, filial leave or other forms of absence are taken into account when evaluating the available time for the realisation of academic output. HOW TO APPLY Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not sent through the online system. Your application must include the following documents: * In the field ‘Cv’: the professorial staff application form (+ all annexes mentioned in the form), merged into one pdf file. * In the field ‘Cover letter’: your application letter in pdf format * In the field ‘Diploma’: a transcript of your doctoral degree. If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages. * In the field ‘Certificate of equivalence’: only for diplomas awarded outside the European Union: certificate of equivalence (NARIC) (if already in you possession) Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB. MORE INFORMATION The strategic goals of this vacancy. For further information regarding these vacancies, please contact Prof. Ingeborg Dhooge (ingeborg.dhooge(a)UGent.be, +32 332 23 31) at the Faculty Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Otorhinolaryngology or Prof. Dick Botteldooren (dick.botteldooren(a)UGent.be, +32 9 264 9968) at the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Department of Information Technology.

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Postdoc positions at Harvard in theoretical neuroscience and brain-inspired machine learning
by Cengiz Pehlevan Sept. 12, 2018

Sept. 12, 2018

Postdoctoral positions are available in Cengiz Pehlevan’s theoretical neuroscience group at Harvard University. We are looking for candidates with strong analytical and numerical skills, and backgrounds in (theoretical) neuroscience, applied mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or related fields. Our group seeks to understand the algorithms of the brain and their neural implementation. Current interests include, but are not limited to, unsupervised learning of sensory representations, reinforcement learning of motor skills, decision making and brain-inspired machine learning. For recent publications, see pehlevan.seas.harvard.edu <https://pehlevan.seas.harvard.edu/>. Successful candidates will join a vibrant community of researchers at Harvard and take part in collaborations with experimental labs across the campus. The position is funded for multiple years, with an initial one-year appointment and expectation of extension contingent on satisfactory progress. To apply, please email a short statement of research interests, a CV, and the contact information of at least two references to Cengiz Pehlevan (cpehlevan at seas.harvard.edu) with the subject line “Theory Postdoctoral Fellow”. Review of applications will begin immediately. Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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PhD positions in Electrophysiology / Brain-machine interface at U. Sherbrooke, Canada (co-supervision with U. of Minnesota, USA)
by Jean Rouat Sept. 11, 2018

Sept. 11, 2018

Auditory implants aim at restoring audition by stimulating a specific structure of the auditory system with an electrode array. The most successful auditory implant, the cochlear implant that stimulates the spiral ganglions in the cochlea, has allowed more than 325 000 people worldwide to regain audition. However, cochlear implants are not appropriate for patients that have a disfunctionnal auditory nerve or for which the cochlea cannot be implanted. Alternative implants have therefore been developed such as the auditory midbrain implant (AMI) that stimulates a structure named the inferior colliculus (IC). One aspect that limits the development of the AMI is the lack of knowledge regarding the optimal approach to stimulate the IC. The proposed project aims at gaining more insight into the optimal design of stimulation patterns for the IC. Objectives: ----------- Design optimal inferior colliculus stimulation patterns using adaptive filters specifically adapted for neural signals: the neural activity will be recorded in the auditory cortex and optimal stimulation in the inferior colliculus will be evaluated using a closed-loop approach. A financial support will be provided. Requirements: —————— - Excellent academic record. - Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, biophysics or other related field with a strong background in mathematics and signal processing. - Willing to conduct experiments in electrophysiology to record the neural activity of the auditory system. No prior knowledge in electrophysiology is required. - Excellent ability to communicate in English, knowledge of French is considered an advantage. The Université de Sherbrooke is a French-speaking institution located in the province of Quebec, Canada, and the heart of an international research pole. It is the host to more than 40 000 students from over 120 different countries worldwide. (Source: UdeS) Interested candidates should send their CV, academic transcripts as well as the names of 2 references to Prof. Eric Plourde. Contact: Eric Plourde, Eng., Ph.D., Université de Sherbrooke (eric.plourde(a)usherbrooke.ca)

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COSYNE 2019: Call for workshop proposals
by Tomas Hromadka Sept. 10, 2018

Sept. 10, 2018

================================================= Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2019 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 28 February - 03 March 2019 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 04 - 05 March 2019 Cascais, Portugal www.cosyne.org ================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PRE-PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 30 September 2018 FULL PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 31 October 2018 PRE-PROPOSALS In an effort to coordinate submissions, the organizers are *strongly encouraged* to submit a pre-proposal by *30 September 2018.* Pre-proposals will be shared among submitters. Pre-proposals are not mandatory, but workshops with a pre-proposal will have priority. The organizers may submit the full proposal by its deadline. A series of workshops will be held after the main Cosyne meeting (www.cosyne.org) 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. Preference will be given to proposals that differ substantially in content, scope, and/or approach from workshops of recent years (examples available at Cosyne.org -> Workshops). 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. In order to foster discussion within Workshops and reduce overlap between workshops, organizers should inform invited speakers that a single person should not speak in more than one of the Workshops taking place on the same day. WORKSHOP DETAILS - There will be 4-8 workshops/day, running in parallel. - Each workshop is expected to draw between 15 and 80 people. - The workshops will be split into morning (8.00-11.00 AM) and afternoon (4.30-7.30 PM) sessions. - Workshops will be held at Cascais, a coastal village ~34 km west of Lisbon. Buses from the main conference will be provided. . SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS Submission instructions for workshop (pre)-proposals are available at Cosyne.org -> Workshops. 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 the most 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 along with a short list of workshop-relevant publications (about half a page total). FULL PROPOSALS should include the list of confirmed speakers in addition to components required for a pre-proposal. Workshop organizer responsibilities include coordinating workshop participation and content, scheduling all speakers and submitting a final schedule for the workshop program, and moderating the discussion. Organizers can be speakers but need not speak depending on scheduling constraints. SUGGESTIONS 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 fewer than 10 talks. When preparing pre-proposals and full proposals, the organizers are encouraged to: - address timeliness of workshop in the proposal: what new insights have been generated (new papers, data, techniques, whatever) over the past few years that make now the right time for discussing them and for presenting them to the wider community? - directly describe how speakers address the central topic, e.g. which are the big question(s), which speakers represent different viewpoints on the same question, which experimentalist addresses the theories addressed by which theoretician (and vice versa); - address controversies and bring together speakers from different “camps” in the same field, or from different fields that you think should talk more to each other for whatever reason; WORKSHOP COSTS Detailed registration costs, etc, will be available at www.cosyne.org. Please note: Cosyne does NOT provide travel funding for workshop speakers. All workshop speakers are expected to pay for workshop registration fees. Participants are encouraged to register early, in order to qualify for discounted registration rates. One complementary (free) organizer registration is provided per workshop. For workshops with 2 organizers, the free registration can be given to one of the organizers or split evenly between them. COSYNE 2019 WORKSHOP CHAIRS Catherine Hartley (NYU) and Ralf Haefner (University of Rochester) QUESTIONS email: 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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POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS, BROWN UNIVERSITY (TRUCCOLO LAB)
by Wilson Truccolo Sept. 10, 2018

Sept. 10, 2018

Applications for post-doctoral positions in Computational Neuroscience are invited for the laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic models of neuronal network dynamics, including applications to propagation and control of epileptic seizures. Neural data consist of recordings of ensembles of single-neurons and high-density local field potentials obtained via multiple intracortical microelectrode arrays implanted in human and non-human primates. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience and modeling of stochastic neural dynamics. Related publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/) Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

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Open Ph.D. position on whole-brain calcium imaging at Technical University of Munich
by Gil Westmeyer Sept. 10, 2018

Sept. 10, 2018

We are currently looking for a Ph.D. Student interested in functionally dissecting whole-brain calcium imaging data with cellular resolution obtained from zebrafish larvae undergoing systematic perturbations of neuronal activity. Our laboratory (westmeyerlab.org) at the School of Medicine of Technical University of Munich (https://www.tum.de/nc/en/homepage/) and The Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging (IBMI) http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/en/ibmi/ focuses on biological engineering of molecular sensors and actuators for neurobehavioral imaging. We have built a molecular imaging pipeline consisting of state-of-the-art fluorescent imaging techniques including neurobehavioral methods to simultaneously image behavior and brain activity in freely behaving animals (see for example NeuBtracker.org) We complement these dataset with exoeriments conducted by Light Sheet Microscopy and Light Field microscopy to obtain imaging volumes with high temporal sampling and confocal / 2-photon microscopy. We also capture calcium signaling from adult zebrafish and rodent brains using combined acquisitions with optoacoustic tomography or MRI. For our inter-disciplinary work, we are actively collaborating within Europe and in particular also with MIT and Caltech. If you are interested in computational analyses of whole-brain calcium imaging data, please visit westmeyerlab.org and submit a brief statement of your research interests and your CV to Gil Westmeyer.

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postdoc positions in statistical neuroscience
by xaq pitkow Sept. 7, 2018

Sept. 7, 2018

POSITION: We seek several highly motivated postdoctoral research fellows for a collaborative team project building statistical tools for interpreting large scale neural recordings (10^5 neurons per animal). The fellows will develop new methods and applications of probabilistic graphical models to infer statistical interactions amongst neurons and with their environment. The tools will be validated in neural network simulations, tested in physiological recordings, and made widely available to the neuroscience community for understanding data from next-generation experiments. TEAM: Fellows will join principal investigators and theorists Krešimir Josić, Genevera Allen, Xaq Pitkow, Ankit Patel, and Robert Rosenbaum. The team will interact closely with experimentalists including co-Investigator Andreas Tolias and several other labs interested in applying novel methods we develop. Fellows will also be members of the new Center for Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence housed at the Baylor College of Medicine and supported in part by the NSF NeuroNex program. The Center brings together interdisciplinary researchers from across Houston, including members from Baylor College of Medicine, Rice University, University of Houston, and University of Texas Health Sciences. Researchers at the Center contribute diverse expertise in fields including neuroscience, machine learning, statistics, physics, computer science, electrical engineering, and applied mathematics. QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must have outstanding mathematical skills, a PhD in a relevant quantitative discipline, and expertise in probabilistic graphical models or statistical machine learning. APPLYING: Applicants should email a letter of research interests and CV to Camila Lopez (Camila.Lopez at bcm.edu) along with contact information for three references. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Multiple Faculty Positions in Neuroengineering, Rice University
by Caleb Kemere Sept. 7, 2018

Sept. 7, 2018

Multiple Assistant Professor Positions in Neuroengineering Rice University in Houston, Texas Rice University’s School of Engineering invites applicants for multiple open tenure-track faculty positions at the assistant professor level in the emerging and broad area of neuroengineering. Research areas of interest include but are not limited to, development of technologies for interfacing with and manipulating the nervous system, as well as computational, data, and theory-driven approaches to improve our understanding of the function of the brain, neurological disorders, and treatment outcomes. Rice University has recently launched a $50 million initiative in neuroengineering to support growing research and education programs in neuroengineering, signal processing, data science, sensing, and nano-electronics with great national and international visibility. A Ph.D. is required, or the Ph.D. requirements must be fulfilled by July 1 of the year employment commences, and the successful applicants will be required to teach undergraduate and graduate courses and build successful research programs. Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching interests, and at least three references through school’s faculty application website: http://jobs.rice.edu/postings/16626/ Applications for this position will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning December 15, 2018, through January 15, 2019. The positions are expected to be available July 1, 2019, and successful candidates can choose any of the nine departments in the school of engineering as their home department. Additional information can be found on our website: http://neuroengineering.rice.edu/ Caleb Kemere : 713-348-6089 / 832-356-6089 : MS-384 : BRC727 : http://rnel.rice.edu Asst. Prof, Rice University Electrical & Computer Engineering

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Open Faculty Positions in Cognitive and Information Sciences at the University of California, Merced
by David Noelle Sept. 6, 2018

Sept. 6, 2018

Four Open Faculty Positions Assistant Professor of Cognitive and Information Sciences University of California, Merced The Department of Cognitive and Information Sciences (CIS) at the University of California, Merced seeks applicants for four (4) tenure-track faculty positions at the Assistant Professor level. CIS is a highly interdisciplinary group offering bachelor’s degrees in Cognitive Science and Philosophy as well as an intensive research-based PhD in Cognitive and Information Sciences. We seek outstanding scholars who will establish and maintain creative research paradigms, participate actively in the development of interdisciplinary programs, and teach and mentor effectively at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Applicants must have either a strong research record or evidence of the potential to develop an independent and innovative research program. We are especially seeking candidates whose research involves one or more of the following areas: (1) Cognitive and Data Science, (2) Language, Communication, and Culture, and (3) Applied Ethics. Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant discipline, such as Cognitive Science, Psychology, Philosophy, Neuroscience, Linguistics, Computer Science, or Anthropology, by the position start date, which is anticipated to be July 1, 2019. Applications must be received no later than November 15, 2018 to be considered. For further information, please visit “https://aprecruit.ucmerced.edu/apply/JPF00699”.

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Hearst Postdoc position at Rhodes College in Memphis
by Blustein_Daniel Sept. 5, 2018

Sept. 5, 2018

Dear Colleagues! We are hiring for a unique post-doctoral position in any area of neuroscience for someone from an historically underrepresented minority group. The position has teaching and research responsibilities and can convert to a tenure-track appointment after two years. The ad is below and I'm happy to answer any questions. Sincerely, Dan Blustein Assistant Professor of Psychology Neuroscience Program Rhodes College Phone: 901-843-3963 | Twitter: @bloostein | web: www.danblu.com Neuroscience Hearst Post-Doctoral Fellowship Ad (2018-2019) Rhodes College invites applicants for a two-year William Randolph Hearst Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neuroscience<http://www.rhodes.edu/neuro> (area of specialization open) for aspiring faculty from historically underrepresented minority groups in higher education. The position will begin in Fall 2019. Candidates completing a successful two-year fellowship will be considered for conversion to a tenure-track appointment. Rhodes College greatly values diversity of faculty, staff, and students. In 1988 Rhodes College received a gift from the William Randolph Hearst Foundations to establish a fellowship for aspiring faculty from underrepresented minority groups. A primary goal of the fellowship is to provide teaching and research experience at a liberal arts college and mentorship toward a successful teacher-scholar career. The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary Neuroscience major that includes faculty from Biology, Psychology, Chemistry, and Philosophy. Candidates must have earned a Ph.D. in Neuroscience or a related field (e.g., Biology, Psychology, Chemistry) by August 2019. Teaching responsibilities will include 3 lecture or seminar courses per year, including an introductory lecture course in Neuroscience, and a senior seminar course for Neuroscience majors. Research will be supported by start-up funds and lab space. Extensive opportunities for collaborative research are available through our partnerships with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, University of Memphis, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. Founded in 1848, Rhodes College is a highly selective, private, residential, undergraduate college, located in Memphis, Tennessee. We aspire to graduate students with a lifelong passion for learning, a compassion for others, and the ability to translate academic study and personal concern into effective leadership and action in their communities and the world. We encourage applications from candidates interested in helping us achieve this vision<https://www.rhodes.edu/content/rhodes-vision>. Rhodes College values an inclusive and welcoming environment. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity<http://handbook.rhodes.edu/diversity> (http://handbook.rhodes.edu/diversity) in the workforce. Memphis has a metropolitan population of over one million and provides multiple opportunities for research and for cultural and recreational activities<http://www.rhodes.edu/content/our-city> (http://www.rhodes.edu/content/liberal-arts-city) Please apply online at jobs.rhodes.edu<https://jobs.rhodes.edu/>. A complete application includes a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy, a research plan, graduate transcripts, up to three representative publications, three letters of recommendation, and a separate statement that addresses how your experiences with teaching, scholarship, and/or service might contribute to a college community that includes a commitment to diversity and inclusion as one of its core values. Please address in your cover letter your interest in a postdoctoral fellowship like the William Randolph Hearst Teaching Fellowship and in teaching at a liberal arts college. Review of completed applications will begin on November 16th and continue until the position is filled. The online application system will solicit letters of recommendation electronically from the candidate's recommenders, once their contact information has been entered and all other required application materials have been submitted. Rhodes College policy requires background checks before candidates can be brought to campus for interviews. For further information, please contact Dr. David Kabelik, kabelikd(a)rhodes.edu<mailto:kabelikd@rhodes.edu>.

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Workshop- Sept 28th, 2018. Latest Advances in Understanding Complex Spatial Navigation
by Fellous, Jean-Marc - (fellous) Sept. 5, 2018

Sept. 5, 2018

WORKSHOP - Friday Sept 28th, 2018 INSERM U1208, Bron/Lyon, France Latest Advances in Understanding Complex Spatial Navigation in Animals, Computational Models and Neuro-inspired Robots The goal of this one-day workshop is to discuss the latest advances in understanding the neural mechanisms of complex spatial navigation using experimental studies in Animals, Computational Neuroscience and Neuro-robotics. The format of the workshop will be 30 minute presentations giving emphasis on studies that relate at least 2 of the 3 techniques (Animals, Computational Neuroscience and Neuro-robotics). The succinct presentation format will allow for ample time for discussion of current and future advances in the area, and collaboration opportunities. Registration is free but required. The workshop will be limited to 30 people. Registration : http://spaq2018.robolat.org/registration Website : http://spaq2018.robolat.org/ Schedule (subject to change, please check the website): 8:45: Peter Dominey: Introduction and Welcome 9:00: Jean-Marc Fellous - Complex Spatial Navigation and the Dorso-Ventral Hippocampal Axis 9:30: Peter Dominey - Cortico-Hippocampal Interaction for Synthesis of Novel Adaptive Experiences 10:00: Alfredo Weitzenfeld - Multi-Scale Spatial Navigation 10:30 - 11:00 Break 11:00: Laurenz Wiskott - Self-Organization of Place Cells in the Hippocampus 11:30: Philippe Gaussier - The Hippocampo-cortical Loop: Spatial and Temporal Dimensions of information Processing 12:15 - 14:00 Lunch 14:00: Sidney Wiener - Navigational Rule and Strategy Related Activity in the Hippocampal-Prefrontal-Striatal System, and Neuromodulator Relations 14:30: Mehdi Khamassi - Hippocampal Replays under the Scrutiny of Reinforcement Learning Models: From Theory to Neurorobotics Experimentation Back to Biology 15:00: Jeff Krichmar - Conjunctive Coding in an Evolved Spiking Model of Retrosplenial Cortex 15:30 - 16:00 Break 16:00: Francesco Battaglia - Chasing Cell Assemblies in Cortico-Hippocampal Neural Ensembles 16:30: Michael Arbib - From Visual Construction and Spatial Navigation to Episodic Memory and Imagination 17:00 - 17:30 Discussion Sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Agence Nationale pour la Recherche (CRCNS-ANR Collaborative grant) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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EEG Basic Oscillations Workshop
by TORRALBA CUELLO, MIREIA Sept. 5, 2018

Sept. 5, 2018

Dear all, It is our pleasure to announce the first edition of Barcelona EEG Basic Oscillations Workshop (BEBOW) that will take place in UPF next 26-28th September in Barcelona. The BEBOW is organized by the Multisensory Research Group, part of Cognition and Brain Center and aims at enabling students to perform time-frequency analysis of the EEG (electroencephalography) signal for neurocognitive research. The workshop will cover experimental design and how to perform time-frequency analysis from a theoretical and a practical point of view. It is addressed to master and PhD students, and post-docs who already have some experience with EEG/ERP analyses. You can find more information in the website of BEBOW <https://eventum.upf.edu/21978/detail/barcelona-eeg-basic-oscillations-works…> . Mireia Torralba Cuello Multisensory Research Group Center for Brain and Cognition, Universitat Pompeu Fabra Address: Edifici Mercè Rodoreda 24.313 c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 08005 Barcelona http://www.mrg.upf.edu Tel +34 935422745

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NEURON Course at SFN 2018 meeting
by Ted Carnevale Sept. 5, 2018

Sept. 5, 2018

Space is still available for the NEURON course at this year's meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. Are you a lab director trying to decide whether to add computational modeling to your research program? A grad student or postdoc who is just getting started in modeling? An established NEURON user who wants to find out about NEURON's latest features? If so, this one-day course is for you! The course starts with a practical introduction that reviews basic concepts and presents a workflow for building and using models of cells and networks, and moves on to topics that include: --how to speed up simulations --how to use Python with NEURON (and take advantage of NEURON's GUI!) --how to model reaction-diffusion with the RxD class For more information and the registration form, see https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/sd2018/sd2018.html --Ted

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High Performance Computing workshop at SFN 2018 meeting
by Ted Carnevale Sept. 4, 2018

Sept. 4, 2018

This year's workshop on High Performance Computing Resources for Parallel Simulations and Data Analysis will be held on Saturday, Nov. 3, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM in downtown San Diego as a satellite to the 2018 meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. It will feature presentations from developers and users of powerful hardware and software tools for dealing with computationally-intensive modeling and data analysis tasks. For more information and a link to the registration form, see https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2018/nsg2018.html The registration deadline for this workshop is Friday Oct. 12, but you should sign up early because space is limited. --Ted

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Postdoctoral position available in computational muscle modelling
by Sang-Hoon Yeo Sept. 4, 2018

Sept. 4, 2018

Postdoctoral position available: Active spring muscle model - a new phenomenological model of skeletal muscle mechanics Understanding Machina Carnis, how our muscles mechanically generate movement, is one of the fundamental research questions in human movement science and also has significant implications in many application areas. Phenomenological muscle models, such as the Hill-type muscle model, have been widely used in studies on motor control and biomechanics. However, the performances of such models in predicting the dynamic contractile behaviours of the muscle, such as eccentric or sub-maximal contractions, are known to be far from accurate. This BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, United Kingdom)–funded postdoctoral research associate will join Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo’s research group to develop a new phenomenological model of the skeletal muscle mechanics. The key idea is to incorporate a newly proposed “active spring model” that involves titin as the third filament, together with actin and myosin filament, that actively regulates the mechanical behaviour of the muscle (see figures below). This new model is expected to be effectively utilized in various areas involving musculoskeletal simulation models, where the current prevalent use of the Hill-type model is identified as a major limiting factor. For two years starting in early 2019, the research associate will lead the first stage of the study focusing on in-vitro muscle/fiber experiments and model development. The research programme includes one-month visits to two prominent muscle biomechanics laboratories: 1) Prof Walter Herzog’s lab in University of Calgary (Calgary, Canada) and 2) Prof Kiisa Nisikawa’s lab in Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, USA) to carry out data collection. Based on the collected data, the research associate will lead the data analysis, computational modelling and simulation of a new muscle mechanics model, and will also collaborate with other research associates to apply the developed muscle model to human biomechanics. The host institution, The University of Birmingham, is a Russell Group university in the vibrant City of Birmingham, United Kingdom. The university has produced eleven affiliated Nobel laureates and is also known as a cradle of modern muscle mechanics, dating back to the seminal work of Peter Rack and David Westbury. The School of Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, where the research associate will be based, is a world-leading research institution in sport science, ranked 5th in the world (QS World Ranking, Sport-related subject). This highly interdisciplinary project is waiting for an ambitious and open-minded individual with substantial experience in computational motor control and muscle/musculoskeletal biomechanics. Individuals whose expertise lies in engineering and physical science and want to apply your skills in muscle biomechanics are also strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in wet-lab work is preferred but not strictly required. If you are interested to apply, please contact the principal investigator Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo (s.yeo(a)bham.ac.uk) to initiate discussion. Best wishes, Sang-Hoon -- Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo Lecturer in Biomechanics and Motor Control School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences The University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom +44(0)121 414 8748

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Job ad: tenure-track open rank faculty positions in Cognitive Science
by Rajeev Raizada Sept. 4, 2018

Sept. 4, 2018

http://www.sas.rochester.edu/bcs/jobs/faculty.html Cognitive Scientist, Open Rank, University of Rochester The Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at the University of Rochester is seeking to hire multiple faculty members in the area of decision making and cognitive or sensorimotor planning at the Assistant (tenure-track) or Associate Professor level. Areas of interest include the roles of learning, prediction, memory, and attention in guiding goal-directed behavior, especially within complex, naturalistic environments. We are primarily interested in candidates using neuroimaging, computational (e.g., Bayesian decision theory, reinforcement learning), behavioral (including technology-driven approaches such as virtual reality), and/or developmental approaches. Both individuals and teams are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will join a dynamic department with interests in the study of perception, motor control, learning, cognition, language, and development through combined neurobiological, computational, and behavioral research (http://www.sas.rochester.edu/bcs/) she or he will also be part of a university–wide community engaged in graduate and undergraduate education. Candidates should hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, or another relevant domain, and should have considerable research experience. Applicants should submit a CV, a statement of research and teaching interests, and contact information for three referees via the following website: http://www.rochester.edu/faculty-recruiting. In addition, team applications should include a joint statement that describes the research synergies of the team. Questions concerning this position can be addressed to Robert Jacobs (rjacobs(a)ur.rochester.edu) and Duje Tadin (dtadin(a)ur.rochester.edu) co-chairs of the search committee. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2018. The University of Rochester is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, and actively encourages applications from candidates from groups underrepresented in higher education. EOE / Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled

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An Amazing Job Opportunity at Apple!
by Burak Yildiz Sept. 4, 2018

Sept. 4, 2018

We are looking for a Senior Systems Neuroscientist to join a great team of researchers at Apple in the San Francisco Bay Area. It's a unique opportunity to do research in industry. Please apply at this link: https://jobs.apple.com/us/search#&ss=Neuroscientist&t=0&so=&lo=0*USA&pN=0&o… Thanks, Burak Yildiz Sr. Research Scientist at Apple

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[meetings] Call for Participation : Workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning - Tokyo - September 17th
by Nguyen, Sao Mai Sept. 3, 2018

Sept. 3, 2018

Call for Participation Workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning at IEEE ICDL-Epirob 2018 - Tokyo - September 17th Website : http://conferences.au.dk/icdl-epirob-2018-workshop/ ============================================================ Invited Speakers - Jochen Triesch, Frankfurt Institute of Advanced Studies, Germany - David Ha, Google Brain - Lorenzo Jamone, Queen Mary University of London, UK Scope As the algorithms for learning single tasks in restricted environments are improving, new challenges have gained relevance. They include multi-task learning, multimodal sensorimotor learning in open worlds and lifelong adaptation to injury, growth and ageing. In this workshop we will discuss the developmental processes involved in the emergence of representations of action and perception in humans and artificial agents in continual learning. These processes include action-perception cycle, active perception, continual sensory-motor learning, environmental-driven scaffolding, and intrinsic motivation. The discussion will be strongly motivated by behavioural and neural data. We hope to provide a discussion friendly environment to connect with research with similar interest regardless of their area of expertise which could include robotics, computer science, psychology, neuroscience, etc. We would also like to devise a roadmap or strategies to develop mathematical and computational models to improve robot performance and/or to attempt to unveil the underlying mechanisms that lead to continual adaptation to changing environment or embodiment and continual learning in open-ended environments. The primary list of topics covers the following (but not limited to): - Emergence of representations via continual interaction - Continual sensory-motor learning - Action-perception cycle - Active perception - Environmental-driven scaffolding - Intrinsic motivation - Neural substrates, neural circuits and neural plasticity - Human and animal behaviour experiments and models - Reinforcement learning and deep reinforcement learning for life-long learning - Multisensory robot learning - Multimodal sensorimotor learning - Affordance learning - Prediction learning Organizers: - Nicolás Navarro-Guerrero, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark - Sao Mai Nguyen, IMT Atlantique, France - Erhan Öztop, Özyeğin University, Turkey - Junpei Zhong, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan Nguyen Sao Mai nguyensmai(a)gmail.com Researcher in Cognitive Developmental Robotics http://nguyensmai.free.fr

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2 open PhD positions in Sprekeler & Kempter labs on models of memory consolidation
by Richard Kempter Sept. 3, 2018

Sept. 3, 2018

Dear all, 2 PhD positions are open in the labs of Henning Sprekeler (TU Berlin) and Richard Kempter (HU Berlin), respectively, to be filled as soon as possible. Both positions are part of the recently established collaborative research center "Mechanisms and disturbances in memory consolidation: >From synapses to systems" https://fis.hu-berlin.de/converis/portal/Project/401700446?auxfun=&lang=en_… The project B01 in this research center focuses on developing computational models of systems memory consolidation, both conceptually and constrained by data from rodents and flies. The two PhD students are expected to collaborate closely. The ideal candidate has a background in computational neuroscience, strong mathematical and programming skills, and a keen interest in synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. If you are interested, please contact Henning Sprekeler or Richard Kempter. Please send the usual application documents (CV, letter of motivation, certificates of BSc and MSc, 2 references) until September 13, 2018. Interviews will take place on September 24/25 and/or September 28, i.e. around the Bernstein Conference in Berlin. Best wishes, Henning & Richard --- Prof. Dr. Henning Sprekeler (TU Berlin) Modelling of cognitive processes Technische Universität Berlin & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin Sekr. MAR 5-3 Marchstr. 23 10587 Berlin, Germany Email: h.sprekeler(a)tu-berlin.de https://www.cognition.tu-berlin.de/menue/members/henning_sprekeler/ Phone: +49 (0)30 314 73557 Prof. Dr. Richard Kempter (HU Berlin) Theoretical neuroscience Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin Philippstr. 13, Building number 4 D-10115 Berlin, Germany Email: r.kempter(a)biologie.hu-berlin.de http://itb.biologie.hu-berlin.de/~kempter/index.html Phone +49-(0)30-2093-98404

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EEG and Machine Learning Postdoctoral Position at Stanford for Personalized Medicine
by Sanggyun Kim Sept. 1, 2018

Sept. 1, 2018

*EEG and Machine Learning Postdoctoral Position at Stanford for PersonalizedMedicine* The Laboratory of Amit Etkin, MD PhD at Stanford University is currently accepting applications for a postdoctoral fellow focused on machine learning and other sophisticated analyses of electroencephalography (EEG) data. This position is funded by an NIH Director’s Pioneer Award. The focus of the position is on creating and applying a variety of data analytic approaches to large EEG data sets (across individuals, or longitudinally within- individual) for the purpose of prediction of clinical outcome and tracking of clinical change. Particular emphasis is on connecting signal processing methodology to the classification challenges, potential use of deep learning, and building on applications from other related areas (e.g. brain-computer interface or other decoding efforts). It is anticipated that this work will contribute to development of clinic-translatable biomarkers, and will be part of FDA approval-directed efforts ongoing in the lab. The successful applicant will have a PhD in Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, Neuroscience, Neurophysiology, Psychology, or related fields. Advanced experience with EEG data analysis and/or machine learning is required. Additionally, strong quantitative skills and a programming background are important. Duties will also include manuscript preparation, presentation of findings at conferences, and contribution to the preparation of grants. Laboratory and Stanford resources are extensive, MRI scanners, simultaneous EEG/fMRI, multiple high density EEG setups, and concurrent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)/fMRI and concurrent TMS/EEG setups. Salary commensurate with experience. More information about our ongoing studies can be found at: http://etkinlab.stanford.edu. To apply, please send a curriculum vitae, a statement describing research interests and relevant background and the names of three recommenders, as well as relevant reprints/preprints of research articles to: Amit Etkin, MD, PhD Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford Neurosciences Institute Stanford University amitetkin(a)stanford.edu

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The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience - recent articles
by Stephen Coombes Aug. 28, 2018

Aug. 28, 2018

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience publishes research articles on the mathematical modelling and analysis of all areas of neuroscience. The new Impact Factor of the journal is 2.414 The current list of journal articles is available at http://www.mathematical-neuroscience.com/ : Stochastic Hybrid Systems in Cellular Neuroscience Paul C. Bressloff and James N. Maclaurin https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… Data Assimilation Methods for Neuronal State and Parameter Estimation Matthew J. Moye and Casey O. Diekman https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… Bifurcations of Limit Cycles in a Reduced Model of the Xenopus Tadpole Central Pattern Generator Andrea Ferrario, Robert Merrison-Hort, Stephen R. Soffe, Wen-Chang Li and Roman Borisyuk https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… What Is Required for Neuronal Calcium Waves? A Numerical Parameter Study Markus Breit and Gillian Queisser https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… Investigating the Correlation–Firing Rate Relationship in Heterogeneous Recurrent Networks Andrea K. Barreiro and Cheng Ly https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… All articles are Open Access. ------------------------------------------------------- Stephen Coombes Professor of Applied Mathematics School of Mathematical Sciences Nottingham, UK Tel: 0115 846 7836 http://www.maths.nott.ac.uk/~sc/ ------------------------------------------------------- This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

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LACONEU Summer School - January 2019
by Patricio Orio Aug. 24, 2018

Aug. 24, 2018

----------------------------------------------------------------------- We have the pleasure to invite Graduate and Undergraduate students to participate in: ----------------------------------------------------------------------- LACONEU 2019 V Latin American Summer School in Computational Neuroscience Special Topic: Complex Systems and Network Connectivity January 7-25th, 2019 Valparaíso - CHILE http://www.laconeu.cl ----------------------------------------------------------------------- The principal aims of LACONEU 2019 Summer School are to disseminate and to develop Computational Neuroscience in Latin America, gathering researchers and students with common interests in the beautiful and historical city of Valparaiso, in Chile. LACONEU 2019 expects to foster a collaborative exchange between the attendees, researchers and students, based on fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge, and thus, to help the establishment of strong, long-term collaborations. This version also includes a WORKSHOP on January 16th, 2019 CONFIRMED SPEAKERS: - Demian Battaglia, Theoretical Neuroscience Group, INT, France - Joana Cabral, University of Oxford, UK - Bruno Cessac, INRIA Sophia-Antipolis, France - Dante Chialvo, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Argentina - Rodrigo Cofré, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile - Mauro Copelli, Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil - Maxime Descoteaux, Université de Sherbrook, Canada - Wael El-Deredy, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile - Pamela Guevara, Universidad de Concepción, Chile - María-José Escobar, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Valparaíso, Chile - Henrik Jensen, Imperial College London, UK - Thierry Mora, École Normale Superiéure, France - Patricio Orio, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile - Adrián Palacios, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile - Tomás Pérez Acle, Fundación Ciencia y Vida, Chile - Peter Robinson, The University of Sydney, Australia - Fernando Rosas, Imperial College London, UK - Inés Samengo, Centro Atómico Bariloche e Instituto Balseiro, Argentina IMPORTANT DATES - Call for Applications: June 8th, 2018 - Application submission deadline: September 15th, 2018 (visit the webpage to see the details) - Acceptance notification: October 31st, 2018 TRAVEL GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR LATIN AMERICAN STUDENTS Looking forward to see you in January! *Prof. Patricio Orio* Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso *CINV* Facultad de Ciencias, *Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile* +56 32 299 5538 / 32 250 8040

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Postdoc at RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Japan
by Taro Toyoizumi Aug. 23, 2018

Aug. 23, 2018

A postdoc position is available at Lab for Neural Computation and Adaptation, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Japan http://toyoizumilab.brain.riken.jp/ to work with Taro Toyoizumi. Job: https://cbs.riken.jp/en/careers/20180817_w929_t_toyoizumi_r.html Our lab is interested in modeling activity-dependent synaptic plasticity and dynamic information processing by the neurons in the brain. We seek highly motivated postdoctoral researchers with a strong analytical background and interest in neuroscience. Applicants should have a PhD in physics, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, engineering, or a related area. Applicants should email a CV and a list of publications to toyoizumilab(a)ml.riken.jp In addition, applicants should organize two letters of recommendation, to be sent by the referees to toyoizumilab(a)ml.riken.jp

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NEST 2.16.0 released
by Hans Ekkehard Plesser Aug. 21, 2018

Aug. 21, 2018

Dear colleagues! I am very excited to inform you that we have released version 2.16.0 of NEST, the Neural Simulation Tool, today. NEST 2.16.0 is the result of 89 merged pull requests by 39 developers since we released NEST 2.14.0 in October 2017. Most notably, this release includes a new infrastructure for the storage of connections, which reduces the memory consumption and network build times (Jordan et al., 2018) and extends the rate model framework for novel use-cases (Senden et al., 2018). As usual, it also includes numerous bug fixes and minor improvements. At the same time, the we have tried to minimize changes to the user interface, so scripts that worked with NEST 2.14.0 should work with NEST 2.16.0 as well. One exception is that global spike detectors have been removed, but this should be relevant only for users on petascale machines. For a detailed list of changes, please see https://github.com/nest/nest-simulator/releases/tag/v2.16.0 The citation for NEST 2.16.0 is Linssen, Charl, Lepperød, Mikkel Elle, Mitchell, Jessica, Pronold, Jari, Eppler, Jochen Martin, Keup, Chrisitan, … Plesser, Hans Ekkehard. (2018, August 27). NEST 2.16.0 (Version 2.16.0). Zenodo. http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1400175 We would like to encourage you to switch to NEST 2.16.0 as soon as possible and are looking forward to hearing about your experiences! On behalf of the NEST Initiative, I would like to thank all developers who have contributed to NEST 2.16.0 and especially our release managers Dennis Terhorst and Jochen Eppler for wrapping it all up! Best regards, Hans Ekkehard Plesser President, The NEST Initiative -- Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser Associate Professor Faculty of Science and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no Home http://arken.nmbu.no/~plesser

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Human Neocortical Neurosolver: A new tool for circuit level investigation of MEG/EEG data
by Stephanie Jones Aug. 21, 2018

Aug. 21, 2018

We are excited to announce the first release of a new user-friendly software package for circuit level interpretation of human EEG/MEG data: Human Neocortical Neurosolver (HNN). The foundation of HNN is a computational neural model that simulates the electrical activity of the neocortical cells and circuits that generate the primary electrical currents underlying EEG/MEG recordings. HNN is a free open source package that was designed for researchers and clinicians, without computational neural modeling experience, to develop and test hypothesis on the circuit origin of their data. We provide tutorials on how to import your data and to begin to understand the underlying neural mechanisms. The tutorials focus on some of the most commonly measured signals, including event related potentials and low frequency alpha, beta and gamma rhythms. We are eager to help users get started and have developed a user forum for feedback and questions. HNN is distributed at https://hnn.brown.edu <https://hnn.brown.edu/>. HNN is being developed by a collaborative team at Brown, MGH and Yale. HNN developments are funded by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering through the BRAIN Initiative: Theories, Models, and Methods of Analysis of Complex Data from the Brain. ******************************************* Stephanie R. Jones, PhD - on behalf of the development team Associate Professor Brown University Department of Neuroscience Stephanie_Jones(a)Brown.edu https://www.brown.edu/research/labs/jones/

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Full-time industry position: Computational Neuroscience / Neuromorphic Machine Learning
by Dylan Muir Aug. 17, 2018

Aug. 17, 2018

aiCTX is an ultra-low-power neuromorphic computing startup / spin-off of the Institute of Neuroinformatics of the University of Zurich and the ETH Zurich. aiCTX has an immediate opening for a Neuromorphic Machine Learning R&D Engineer We are looking particularly for comp. neurosci. researchers, with a background in theory and/or modelling of spiking neural networks. This position is for a full-time on-going contract, in Zürich Switzerland. We also have paid internships available for qualified candidates. Please see the job posting for more details, and to apply: http://bit.ly/aiCTX_job2 <http://bit.ly/aiCTX_job2>

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Funded mathematics PhD position - Designing the dynamics of coupled oscillators - University of Exeter
by Purcell, Sarah Aug. 17, 2018

Aug. 17, 2018

Funded mathematics PhD position - Designing the dynamics of coupled oscillators University of Exeter<https://www.exeter.ac.uk/>, UK Supervisors: - Dr Christian Bick<http://empslocal.ex.ac.uk/people/staff/cb618/> - Dr Kyle Wedgwood <http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kcaw201> The University of Exeter's College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD studentship to commence in September 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter. For eligible students the studentship will cover tuition fees in full plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £14,777 for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study. The student would be based in the Department of Mathematics in the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences in Exeter. Networks of interacting oscillatory units are abundant in nature and technology. Their function and dynamics governs crucial aspects of our lives, ranging from the stability of power grids to the dynamics of the human brain. The dynamics of oscillator networks depends on (1) which oscillators interact with which other oscillator and (2) how oscillators interact with one another. This project will contribute to the question how the interplay between these two factors shape the network dynamics. The main aim of this PhD project is to develop theoretical and numerical approaches how oscillator networks can be designed to have specific interactions. This will allow to generate networks that exhibit a range of synchronized and locally synchronized dynamics. Moreover, the supervisor is currently collaborating with the experimental group of Istvan Z Kiss in St Louis (USA) who are working on electrochemical oscillators. Hence, there may be an opportunity to help implement the theoretical results in real-world experimental systems. The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit for 3.5 years of full-time study to commence in September 2018 or on a mutually agreed date as soon as possible thereafter, and is subject to confirmation of funding. For full details please see the PhD advert<https://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/?id=3189>. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Dr Christian Bick<http://empslocal.ex.ac.uk/people/staff/cb618/> or Dr Kyle Wedgwood. <http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kcaw201>

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Postdoc available in Brinkman group at Stony Brook University
by Braden Brinkman Aug. 16, 2018

Aug. 16, 2018

A postdoctoral position is available in Braden Brinkman's group in the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior at Stony Brook University, located on Long Island in New York State. The Brinkman group studies mathematical models of sensory coding and network dynamics, with a focus on how environmental and physiological constraints shape coding and computation in the brain. For more information on our work and the department, please visit https://medicine.stonybrookmedicine.edu/node/14355 Candidates must have a strong background in quantitative methods; background in statistical physics is a plus. Please submit applications through Stony Brook's jobs portal here (job # 1802370): https://stonybrooku.taleo.net/careersection/post_docs/jobdetail.ftl?job=180… Complete applications must include 1. C.V. including a list of publications/preprints, research experience, and education 2. A 1-2 page summary of previous research accomplishments 3. A 1-2 page description of future research goals and interests 4. 2-3 references letters from scientists familiar with the candidates work Items 1-3 may be attached through the online application portal. Letter writers should send letters directly to braden.brinkman(a)stonybrook.edu Deadline for applications is Sept 1. Please email braden.brinkman(a)stonybrook.edu with any questions.

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Contrat post-doctorant 2018-2020 - Laboratoire FrontLAB, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Epinière (ICM), PARIS (FR)
by Bénédicte BATRANCOURT Aug. 16, 2018

Aug. 16, 2018

*Contrat post-doctoral 2018-2020* Laboratoire FrontLAB, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Epinière (ICM), PARIS Inserm, U 1127, CNRS, UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR S 1127 https://icm-institute.org/fr/ L’Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM) est un centre de recherche de dimension internationale, innovant dans sa conception comme dans son organisation. En réunissant en un même lieu malades, médecins et chercheurs, l’objectif est de permettre la mise au point rapide de traitements pour les lésions du système nerveux afin de les appliquer aux patients dans les meilleurs délais. D’un point de vue scientifique, les équipes de recherche sont indépendantes, mais alliées entre elles par des Programmes Transversaux de Recherche favorisant la mutualisation des compétences. La recherche se décline selon trois modèles : la recherche fondamentale orientée vers les domaines fondamentaux d’une discipline, la recherche clinique dans laquelle le sujet participe à des protocoles pour améliorer la connaissance d’une pathologie ou d’une thérapeutique et la recherche translationnelle qui permet aux patients de bénéficier plus rapidement des innovations diagnostiques et thérapeutiques. La recherche à l’ICM couvre 4 domaines scientifiques majeurs : Neurosciences Moléculaires et Cellulaires, Neurophysiologie intégrée, Neurosciences Cognitives, Neurosciences Cliniques et Translationnelles. Dans notre équipe FRONTlab (Richard LEVY, Bruno DUBOIS), nous travaillons sur les fonctions mentales élaborées par les lobes frontaux. L’un des enjeux majeurs des neurosciences est de connaître en profondeur les fonctions frontales afin de *comprendre comment sont élaborés et contrôlés nos comportements les plus complexes* (prise de décision, planification raisonnement, créativité, jugement moral, interactions sociales…). Une connaissance approfondie des lobes frontaux est aussi indispensable pour mieux traiter les nombreuses maladies neurologiques et psychiatriques s’accompagnant d’une atteinte des lobes frontaux (maladie d’Alzheimer, AVC, traumatismes crâniens, dépression, schizophrénie…). Nos objectifs sont de mieux cerner l’implication des lobes frontaux dans le comportement humain et les fonctions intellectuelles les plus élaborées, et de transférer les connaissances acquises vers la pratique médicale. Nous proposons un contrat de postdoctorant de 2 ans afin de participer au développement du projet ECOCAPTURE, permettant d’évaluer l’apathie de façon quantitative et objective, par l’observation du sujet en condition proche de la vie réelle. L’étude ECOCAPTURE se déroule dans la plate-forme de recherche de psychologie expérimentale de l'ICM (PRISME) qui est consacrée à l'exploration fonctionnelle du comportement humain dans des situations écologiques. L’étude ECOCAPTURE a débuté en septembre 2017, et porte sur 75 patients (Démence Fronto-Temporale, Parkinson, Dépression) et 60 volontaires sains. A ce jour 16 participants ont été inclus (8 patients et 8 volontaires sains). Dans cette étude et la phase dite de laboratoire, *l’apathie est évaluée en condition observationnelle* grâce à un système qui enregistre le comportement du sujet à l’aide d’un système à base de vidéo et de capteurs, durant une session expérimentale de 45 mn « proche de la vie réelle » qui se déroule dans une salle d’attente, selon un scénario contrôlé. L’objectif principal de l’étude ECOCAPTURE est de montrer que l’outil ECOCAPTURE basé sur des enregistrements vidéo et des capteurs d’activité et de mouvements, possède une valeur d’outil diagnostique de l’apathie. La méthode générale concerne en l’extraction de métriques comportementales à partir des données vidéo et des données extraites d’un accéléromètre 3D afin de différencier le comportement des patients de celui des sujets volontaires sains. L’étude ECOCAPTURE est la première étape d'un programme en trois phases visant à mieux évaluer l'apathie en situation « proche de la vie réelle » et à proposer de nouveaux traitements. La première phase dite « de laboratoire » a pour objectif la mise en œuvre d’un outil diagnostic de l'apathie produisant une « signature simple du comportement dirigé vers un but » ou « signature comportementale de l’apathie » permettant d'évaluer l'apathie, en situation de vie quotidienne, de façon objective (un marqueur d'apathie). Nous espérons que la création et la validation de cet outil ECOCAPTURE rendra possible dans une deuxième phase, son utilisation en clinique ainsi qu’une évaluation au domicile *ECOCAPTURE@home* avec un système de capteurs embarqués : un « holter d'apathie ». Une troisième phase visera à proposer un traitement des conséquences de l'apathie dans la vie quotidienne. L’objectif de ce contrat postdoctoral est de développer la deuxième phase : *ECOCAPTURE@home*. Nous recherchons un candidat titulaire d’un doctorat en neurosciences, sciences cognitives ou en bioinformatique, de formation : psychologue, neuropsychologue, neurologue, psychiatre, éthologue ou ingénieur biomédical. Le candidat devra posséder plusieurs compétences parmi la liste suivante : neuropsychologie, éthologie, mesure du comportement, instruments neuropsychologiques, qualités psychométriques d’un outil d’évaluation, capteurs et actigraphie, statistiques, fusion de données, classification. Une bonne connaissance de la langue française est indispensable afin de permettre les interactions avec les patients et leurs aidants. Ce contrat permettra à un chercheur motivé de participer à un projet multidisciplinaire et très original, de collaborer avec des chercheurs de disciplines diverses, de bénéficier d’un environnement scientifique international et stimulant, et de participer à la vie de l’équipe FrontLAB constituée d’un groupe de 12 PI chacun responsable d’un projet dédié à la compréhension du lobe frontal, et accueillant chaque année de nombreux étudiants. *La rémunération sera établie en fonction du barème de rémunération des contractuels Inserm* Merci d’envoyer votre CV avec une lettre de motivation et les noms et emails de deux personnes de référence à Bénédicte BATRANCOURT ( benedicte.batrancourt(a)upmc.fr) avant le 30 septembre 2018. Bénédicte Batrancourt ICM, UPMC, INSERM UMR_S 1127, CNRS UMR 7225 Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière 47 Boulevard de l’Hôpital F-75651 PARIS Cedex 13 Tel : 01 57 27 41 59 Tel : 06 60 44 79 79 benedicte.batrancourt(a)upmc.fr http://icm-institute.org ----------------------------------- Afin de contribuer au respect de l'environnement, merci de n'imprimer ce mail qu'en cas de nécessité.

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Up to 8 PhD fellowships in Cognitive Neuroscience at SISSA, Trieste, Italy
by Alessandro Treves Aug. 16, 2018

Aug. 16, 2018

SISSA is an elite postgraduate research institution, focused on Maths, Physics and Neuroscience. It operates in English: many among its students and faculty are not Italian. Campus above Trieste, overlooking the Gulf. Research approaches in the CNS PhD https://phdcns.sissa.it/ span the range from cognitive psychology and imaging in humans to behavioural neuroscience and multiple single-unit recording in rats, mathematical and computational modeling; with research groups led by Domenica Bueti, Davide Crepaldi, Mathew Diamond, Chris Mathys, Raffaella Rumiati, Alessandro Treves and Davide Zoccolan. Allied approaches are pursued in other SISSA PhDs. All admitted students receive a 4-year fellowship and engage full-time in research based in Trieste, with limited coursework in the first few months, talks and seminars throughout the year and a TEX event in the summer, see https://indico.sissa.it/event/26/ First deadline for EU candidates: March 2, 2018, for nonEU: March 31, 2018 -- Alessandro Treves http://people.sissa.it/~ale/limbo.html SISSA - Cognitive Neuroscience, via Bonomea 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy +39-040-3787623 Ambassador (BlaBlaCar) +39-349-2504602

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Save the date ICTALS2019 (IWSP9), Exeter, UK, September 2nd – 5th 2019
by Goodfellow, Marc Aug. 15, 2018

Aug. 15, 2018

Dear All, The International Conference for Technology and AnaLysis of Seizures, 2019 (ICTALS2019) will take place at the University of Exeter, September 2nd – 5th 2019. The goal of this conference is to bring together neurologists, neuroscientists, researchers from quantitative disciplines and people with lived experience of epilepsy in order to work as a community to advance our understanding of epilepsy and develop practical ways to improve diagnosis and treatment. This is the second ICTALS conference, which is an evolution of the previous International Workshop on Seizure Prediction (IWSP) series. The theme for this year’s conference will be: “The Epilepsy Journey: from first seizure to treatment and beyond”. We will emphasise how advances in our understanding of the dynamics of brain networks can be used to make a difference to people with epilepsy at all points of their journey: from elucidating the causes of the first seizure to diagnosing epilepsy, understanding how ictogenic networks give rise to recurrent seizures and how this insight can inform personalised treatment. To encourage this focus on translatable output of research we will seek to include all relevant communities. In addition to focussing on current scientific, clinical and technological advances, we will take steps to increase accessibility for people with lived experience of epilepsy. We have begun to create a webpage for the conference, which we will populate with further information in due course. You can find this at: http://exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019 In the mean time, please save the date above in your diary and we will follow up with further information, including registration and programs over the next few months. Best wishes Marc Goodfellow (on behalf of the local organising committee). https://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/mg401

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MRC Skills Development Fellowships at the University of Exeter
by Purcell, Sarah Aug. 15, 2018

Aug. 15, 2018

Dear Colleagues, The University of Exeter<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/> is delighted to be partnering with the Medical Research Council<https://mrc.ukri.org/> (MRC) to offer exceptional candidates the opportunity to hold a 3 year Skills Development Fellowship, commencing between November 2018 and March 2019. MRC Skills Development Fellowships are prestigious personal awards, aimed at exceptional early career researchers with a strong background in mathematical, statistical, computational or biophysical modelling and analysis, or for more advanced researchers from a biomedical or clinical background who are seeking to develop strong quantitative skills. The University of Exeter has a wide variety of opportunities to develop these quantitative skills in the context of neuroscience and neurology, endocrinology and metabolism, and primary care population and health services research. Successful applicants will be housed within the brand new £52M Living Systems Institute<https://www.exeter.ac.uk/livingsystems/> where they will be co-located with 8 other MRC Fellowship holders. They will receive 3 years of funding with substantial budgets for travel, skills development and consumables as determined by their project needs. As part of the Fellowship candidates will also have the opportunity to spend up to a year in an internationally leading second research centre. Additionally, candidates will receive a £5,000 career development budget from the University of Exeter. Full details of this opportunity are available from www.exetermrcsdf.ac.uk<http://www.exetermrcsdf.ac.uk/> and in the information video<https://youtu.be/LKgl1WqiRgU>. Applications are now open with a closing date of 13th September 2018. Please do share these details with any potentially interested parties.

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Funded postdoc positions: Synaptic and network mechanisms of visual perception
by Haider, Bilal Aug. 14, 2018

Aug. 14, 2018

The Haider Lab in the Dept. of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Georgia Tech & Emory University seeks highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral fellows for a 3-5 year NIH funded project examining synaptic and network mechanisms supporting sensory perception. The position is available immediately and conforms to NIH standards for salary and benefits. The project offers significant opportunity to use cutting-edge research techniques in vivo during visual perception. These include 1) neural population recording with high-density silicon electrodes, 2) optogenetic circuit manipulation, and 3) whole-cell patch-clamp recording during behavior. The ideal candidate has expertise in patch clamp or multi-electrode electrophysiology in vitro or in vivo, and quantitative skill in data acquisition and analysis (preferably with MATLAB). Candidates should have excellent written and verbal communication skills, an inquisitive mindset, and enthusiasm to work in a multi-disciplinary team. The position is funded for up to 5 years, pending satisfactory performance upon annual review. We are enthusiastic to form a diverse, international research group. All candidates will be mentored for independent career development. There is a strong, multidisciplinary concentration of labs focusing on Neuroscience at GT and at Emory. Atlanta is vibrant, green, diverse, and one of the most affordable and livable major cities of the US. Applications should include a CV, a brief statement of research goals, expected date of availability, and names and contact information of three references. Please email materials to bilal.haider(a)bme.gatech.edu Further information and recent lab publications can be found at haider.gatech.edu Bilal Haider, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Coulter Dept. of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Tech & Emory University 313 Ferst Drive, Suite 3104 Atlanta, GA 30332 tel: +1 404 385 4935 fax: +1 404 385 5044 site: haider.gatech.edu<http://haider.gatech.edu/> twitter: @haiderlab<https://twitter.com/haiderlab>

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow roles - EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in Healthcare, University of Exeter
by Purcell, Sarah Aug. 13, 2018

Aug. 13, 2018

2 Postdoctoral Research Fellow roles - EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in Healthcare University of Exeter, UK Two Research Fellows are required to support the EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in Healthcare<http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/research/pmh/> (CPMH). The roles are available from 01 October 2018, or a mutually agreeable date soon thereafter, for a period of up to 24 months. The CPMH is a £2M award which brings together outstanding scientists from mathematics, statistics, computer science and our medical school. With an additional £7M in research funding, the interface between mathematics, computer science and healthcare is one of the most rapidly expanding areas within the University. The Centre forms part of the Quantitative Biology and Medicine Initiative, which currently consists of 15 PDRAs, 9 fellowship holders, and 10 PhD students. The successful candidates are expected to focus on one of the following areas, depending on their interests and background: (a) Transient dynamics of networks with multiple time scales: there are significant mathematical challenges from disease modelling that require the development of new techniques to understand transient behaviour in multiple timescale systems, especially for systems where there is not a simple factorization into fast and slow subsystems. (b) Numerical investigation of models of cardiac diseases: involving multi-scale excitable and transient dynamics, with a focus on re-entrant arrhythmias specifically concerning development and improvements of antiarrhythmia pacing, low-voltage defibrillation and catheter ablation. [In partnership with cardiologists at the RD&E Hospital, Exeter]. (c) Mathematical modelling and analysis of EEG in dementia: EEG analysis has shown promise in differentiating people with dementia from healthy older adults, and therefore could provide indications for early diagnosis. We will use mathematical models to better understand why differences in EEG occur and combine models and analysis to build improved diagnostic markers. [In partnership with colleagues in Bath, Bristol & Reading]. (d) Mathematical modelling and analysis of polygenic disease: conditions such as diabetes and dementia depend on the simultaneous presence of several genes; they are not inherited as simply as single-gene diseases and therefore require the development of new mathematical approaches to improve diagnosis via e.g. the interpretation and uncertainty quantification of proportions of patients in large data sets (e.g. UK Biobank) using genetic risk scores. [In partnership with diabetologists and neurologists from the Medical School]. For full details please see the job advert<https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BLL261/postdoctoral-research-fellow/>. Application deadline: 20 August 2018. For further information please contact Centre Manager Sarah Purcell, email S.Purcell(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:S.Purcell@exeter.ac.uk> or telephone 01392 726447.

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PhD deeplearning in neuroimaging - Amsterdam
by Rajat Thomas Aug. 10, 2018

Aug. 10, 2018

PhD student “Deep learning analysis of neuroimaging data” The job Amsterdam UMC (University of Amsterdam) has a vacancy for a PhD student. The aim of the project is to develop deep neural network (DNN) analysis of neuroimaging data to enable neuroimaging biomarker development. Neuroimaging data consist of thousands of features but the training of DNNs is typically hampered by limited samples. You will use large existing datasets (>10.000 subjects) for the development of DNN analysis and test the resulting models in smaller samples to develop neuroimaging biomarkers for psychiatric disorders. Our department The project is a collaboration with Phillips Research and funded by a public-private partnership grant from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). You will closely collaborate with experts in DNN and neuroimaging data analysis from Philips. The project is embedded within the Department of Psychiatry of the Amsterdam UMC, and you will be supervised by Dr. Rajat Thomas (deep learning) and Prof. Guido van Wingen (neuroimaging). Your experience We are looking for a highly talented and dedicated PhD student with a (nearly completed) Master’s degree in a computer science, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or related discipline. You have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and programming, preferably in one of the major frameworks for deep learning like TensorFlow, Pytorch and/or Keras, and preferably have experience with medical image analysis. You have good communicative skills and are well able to work independently as well as in a team. You are proficient in English in speech and writing. Dutch is a plus but not required. Our offer We offer a challenging research project and excellent resources for the duration of 4 years. The starting date is preferably around December 2018. Compensation is according to the collective agreement (CAO-UMC), and amounts from EUR 2.279,- gross per month in the first year to EUR 2.919,- in the fourth year. You will be employed by AMC Medical Research BV. Your application For more information, please contact Dr. Rajat Thomas (r.m.thomas(a)amc.nl) or Prof. Guido van Wingen (g.a.vanwingen(a)amc.nl) Please apply online before September 8 at https://werkenbijamc.nl/vacatures/phd-student-deep-learning-analysis-of-neu…

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Postdoc deeplearning in medical imaging - Amsterdam
by Rajat Thomas Aug. 10, 2018

Aug. 10, 2018

Postdoctoral / Ph.D. researcher “Deep learning analysis of neuroimaging data” The job Amsterdam UMC (University of Amsterdam) has a vacancy for a postdoctoral researcher. The aim of the project is to develop deep neural network (DNN) analysis of neuroimaging data to enable neuroimaging biomarker development. Neuroimaging data consist of thousands of features but the training of DNNs is typically hampered by limited samples. You will use large existing datasets (>10.000 subjects) for the development of DNN analysis and test the resulting models in smaller samples to develop neuroimaging biomarkers for psychiatric disorders. Our department The project is a collaboration with Phillips Research and funded by a public-private partnership grant from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). You will closely collaborate with experts in DNN and neuroimaging data analysis from Philips. The project is embedded within the Department of Psychiatry of the Amsterdam UMC, and you will be supervised by Dr. Rajat Thomas (deep learning) and Prof. Guido van Wingen (neuroimaging). Your experience We are looking for a postdoctoral fellow with a (nearly completed) PhD in computer science, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or related discipline. You have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and programming in one of the major frameworks for deep learning like TensorFlow, Pytorch and/or Keras, and preferably have experience with medical image analysis. You have excellent communicative skills in written and spoken English (Dutch is a plus but not required) and are well able to work independently as well as in a team. You have an interest in neuroscience and developing biomedical applications, and as postdoctoral researcher will assist in the supervision of junior researchers. Our offer We offer a challenging research project and excellent resources for the duration of 1 year with a possible extension of 2 years. The starting date is preferably around December 2018. Compensation is according to the collective agreement (CAO-UMC), depending on education and experience. You will be employed by AMC Medical Research BV. Your application For more information, please contact Dr. Rajat Thomas (r.m.thomas(a)amc.nl) or Prof. Guido van Wingen (g.a.vanwingen(a)amc.nl) Please apply online at https://werkenbijamc.nl/vacatures/postdoctoral-researcher-deep-learning-ana…

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ESI SyNC Conference 2018 - Integrative Mechanisms of Cognitive Neuroscience | DEADLINE APPROACHING
by André Castro Aug. 9, 2018

Aug. 9, 2018

Dear all, this is a kind reminder that ESI Sync 2018 is approaching. The registration deadline is 15th August and only a limited number of places are available. This year’s theme is "Integrative Mechanisms in Cognitive Neuroscience: Crossroads to the Brain”. The conference will begin in the morning of 30th August and end in the evening of 31st August 2018 at the Ernst Strüngmann Institute in Frankfurt, Germany. Our confirmed invited speakers are the following: - David Melcher (University of Trento, Italy) -- "Temporal rhythms of visual perception" - Dimitri Kullmann (UCL, UK) -- "Hippocampal gamma oscillations: dynamical properties and closed-loop manipulation" - Matteo Carandini (UCL, UK) -- "Local and global neural correlates of vision, action, and reward" - Biyu He (NYU, US) -- ''Large-scale brain dynamics underlying visual perceptual awareness'' - Tobias Donner (UKE, Germany) -- tba - Wim Vanduffel (KU Leuven, Belgium) -- "Optogenetic interrogation of the attention network in primates" - Anitha Pasupathy (University of Washington, US) -- "Encoding things and stuff: multiplexed form and texture signals in primate V4" - Floris de Lange (Radboud University, Netherlands) -- "How do prior expectations influence sensory computations?" - Hannah Monyer (Heidelberg University, Germany) -- ''GABAergic neurons – the cellular substrate for local and long-range synchrony'' - James Bisley (UCLA, US) -- ''The complementary roles of areas LIP and FEF in guiding eye movements'' This year we have the pleasure to announce as our special guest the choreographer Ildikó Tóth! In order to register, please fill out the registration form (that can be found at http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/registration/ ) and email it to events(a)esi-frankfurt.de. Please see our [website](http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/esisync-home/) for more details and updates on the programme. Organising Committee: Wolf Singer Pascal Fries André Castro Tommaso Tosato Ana Broggini Miriam Mueller Renata Vajda

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Final call and reminder - workshop on Computational Neuroscience and Robotics: University of York, 3-5 Sep 2018.
by David Halliday Aug. 8, 2018

Aug. 8, 2018

The SPANNER workshop on Astrocyte-Neuron interactions, Spiking Neural Networks and Autonomous robotics is still accepting applications to attend. Due to sponsorship we can offer free registration, including meals at this 2.5 day workshop. We have invited speakers from USA, EU and UK. We are still accepting abstracts for contributed talks. Overnight accommodation will be provided for PhD students and early career researchers and PhD student travel bursaries are available. Up to date information is on the web site: https://www.york.ac.uk/spanner-workshop We warmly invite you to the historic city of York next month.

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PhD positions in CRC 1330 Hearing Acoustics
by Seeber, Bernhard Aug. 7, 2018

Aug. 7, 2018

Dear colleagues, on behalf of Dr. Ewert I am pleased to announce two open positions in the Medical Physics Group at the University of Oldenburg, Germany, funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) as part of newly established collaborative research centre CRC1330 Hearing Acoustics. Further information can be found here: PhD Position in the area of of auditory-object-based perception modelling for complex scenes: https://www.uni-oldenburg.de/stellen/?stelle=66162 PhD Position in the area of psychoacoustics in complex audio-visual virtual environments: https://www.uni-oldenburg.de/stellen/?stelle=66163 Both projects aim to transition from classical lab testing of hearing with simplified stimuli to using life-like realistic scenarios. Applications are requested no later than August 31, 2018. Many thanks, Stephan Ewert (Bernhard Seeber)

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Extension Call for Abstracts: New Deadline August 31 - Cognitive Computing - Merging Concepts with Hardware
by Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa Aug. 6, 2018

Aug. 6, 2018

Upon demand and the holiday period in August we extend the Deadline for submissions of abstracts until the end of August. New Deadline for Abstract submission: August 31 Call for participation and contributions: COGNITIVE COMPUTING: MERGING CONCEPTS WITH HARDWARE December 18-20, 2018, Hannover, Germany http://www.cognitive-comp.org/ ** An interdisciplinary networking event / scientific conference ** We would like to draw your attention to an upcoming scientific community event. The aim of this conference is to work towards a general, productive, and rigorous theory of “computing” in non-digital, nonlinear physical substrates. Biological brains and unconventional computing machines would become understandable as different instantiations of the same underlying principles. Three scientific communities, namely - cognitive and computational neurosciences, - theory of computation, and - nonlinear materials, devices and systems have since long been exploring diverse facets of such principles of non-digital computing. But differences in terminology, discipline-specific objectives and a scattered spectrum of formal methods have handicapped cross-fertilization. Everything in this conference is geared toward stimulating linkages between these fields: - single-track with few but rather long oral presentations, - long break and poster session times for person-to-person interaction, - keynote and plenary speakers with interdisciplinary renown, - a limited (200) number of participants, - a splendid setting in the Castle of Herrenhausen, a heritage of the Kings of Hannover, with adjoining hectares of classical French gardening. Invited and confirmed speakers: - Kwabena Boahen, Stanford University - Joanna J. Bryson, Univ. of Bath and Princeton University - Chris Eliasmith, University of Waterloo - Edward A. Lee, UC Berkeley - Demetri Psaltis, EPFL Lausanne - Pieter Roelfsema, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam & Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience - Susan Stepney, University of York - Ipke Wachsmuth, University of Bielefeld - David Wolpert, Santa Fe Institute We solicit the submission of 2-page abstracts, with themes oriented toward our five topical sessions: - applications of unconventional computing systems, - theoretical concepts and mathematical foundations, - neuromorphic hardware, - novel physical substrates, - guides from neuroscience for computing technologies. In addition to latest specific achievements, we specifically encourage survey / introductory / didactic contributions. Detailed information can be found on http://www.cognitive-comp.org/ and in the Call for Abstracts that is posted there. Timelines: - Abstract submission: July 31 - Notification of acceptance: September 30 - Final abstract for online publication: October 31 Registration fees: - Students (incl. PhD students): 150 Euro - Others (academic): 300 Euro - Industry: 900 Euro Contributors of accepted oral presentations will be exempted from fees and will receive travel refunding. The event was made possible by the generous support from the Volkswagen Foundation, Germany’s largest private organization for the advancement of scientific research. The organizers: - Daniel Brunner (photonics, neuromorphic architectures; CNRS / University of Burgundy - Franche-Comté) - Herbert Jaeger (machine learning, nonlinear dynamics; Jacobs University Bremen) - Stuart Parkin (nano systems, quantum electronic materials; Max-Planck-Institute for Microstructure Physics, Halle) - Gordon Pipa (neuroinformatics and cognitive computing; University of Osnabrück)

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One postdoc and two PhD positions in Emmy-Noether group "Decision Neuroscience of Human Cooperation" in Hamburg, Germany
by Christoph Korn Aug. 3, 2018

Aug. 3, 2018

Dear all, I would be very grateful, if you could circulate the following job announcements. One postdoc and two PhD positions are available within the newly funded Emmy-Noether research group "Decision Neuroscience of Human Cooperation" led by Christoph Korn. *Research topic and group:* The group's aim is to investigate the decision-making and learning processes relevant for successful social cooperation between humans. The planned projects rely on a variety of theoretical and methodological approaches including computational modeling of behavioral data, evolutionary game theory, model-based and multivariate analyses of fMRI data, pupillometry, virtual reality, and testing of psychiatric patients. The group is based at the Institute of Systems Neuroscience (head: Prof. Christian Büchel) at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Hamburg, Germany. Psychiatric patients are tested in collaboration with Sabine Herpertz and her lab at the Heidelberg University Hospital. You can find more information here: http://christoph-korn.net/ *What the group offers:* - Opportunity to get hands-on supervision for learning various data acquisition and analysis techniques - Dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment within the Institute of Systems Neuroscience - Research-dedicated T3 MR scanner (PRISMA), eye-tracking and VR laboratories, excellent infrastructure for behavioral testing - Multiple training opportunities within the institute (e.g., https://goo.gl/pU44vP) - Possibility to join the local graduate school, which is a member of national and international networks - Possibility of research stay with collaboration partners in the US *Your profile:* - You are interested in investigating how cooperation, decision-making, and learning relate to human brain activity and how they go awry in psychiatric disorders. - You like to design experiments, devise models, and analyze various types of data. - You have experience in conducting and analyzing behavioral experiments with human participants. - You are fluent in English. For the postdoc position and for one of the PhD positions, knowledge of German is not necessary. *Requirements for the postdoc position:* - A PhD (completed or close to the completion) in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, economics, medicine, or a related discipline. - Experience in conducting and analyzing neuroimaging experiments (including familiarity with SPM, FSL, or similar programs). - Experience in using programming languages such as Matlab, R, or Python. - Experience in writing and publishing peer reviewed scientific papers. *Requirements for the PhD positions:* - A Master of Science or an equivalent degree in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, economics, medicine, or a related discipline. - Experience in programming and in conducting or analyzing neuroimaging experiments is a big plus. - One of the PhD candidates will be (partly) based in Heidelberg to test psychiatric patients. This position is ideal for applicants with an interest in clinical psychiatry and requires knowledge of German to interact with patients. *Application and job specifications:* Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. The first review of applications will be in the beginning of September 2018. Preferred starting date is January 2019 but later starting dates may be possible. Salary depends on experience and is based on German regulations (the postdoc position is remunerated with the factor 100%, the PhD positions with the factor 65%). The appointments will be initially for 3 years with the possibility for continuation. The group is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment. If you are interested, please send one pdf-document including your CV, a brief statement of research interest, and the contact details of two academic referees to *c.korn(a)uke.de <c.korn(a)uke.de>*. Informal inquiries are welcome. Looking forward to hearing from you, Christoph

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A biologically motivated and more powerful alternative to locality-sensitive hashing
by Rod Rinkus Aug. 2, 2018

Aug. 2, 2018

I believe this community will be interested in a new downloadable Java app that I 've just made available on my web site (on this page <http://www.sparsey.com/CSA_explainer_app_page.html>), which describes an alternative, biologically motivated/plausible, way to achieve the goals of locality-sensitive hashing (LSH). This alternative model, called Sparsey, achieves a more graded notion of similarity preservation than LSH, and has many other advantages as well. Sparsey has a natural correspondence to the brain's cortex, centering on the idea that all items of information are stored as sparse distributed codes (SDCs), a.k.a., cell assemblies, in superposition in mesoscale cortical modules, e.g., macrocolumns (though other structures, e.g., mushroom bodies, are also candidates). Briefly, Sparsey preserves similarity from input space to SDR code space (measured as intersection size) as follows. - The process of choosing an SDC takes the form of Q independent softmax choices, one in each of the Q WTA competitive modules (CMs) that comprise the SDR coding field. - The familiarity (inverse novelty) of the input, denoted "G", which is in [0,1], is computed. This is an extremely simple computation. - The amount of noise in those Q softmax choice processes is modulated as a function of G. Basically, the softmax is over the distribution of input summations of the competing cells (in a given CM), but we use G to modulate (i.e. sharpen vs. flatten) those distributions. - When G is near 1 (perfect familiarity), the distributions are greatly sharpened, causing the expected number of CMs in which the cell with the highest input summation wins (and thus, the expected intersection of the resulting SDR with the closest matching previously stored SDR) to increase towards Q. When G is near 0 (completely novel), the distributions are flattened, causing the expected number of CMs in which the cell with max input summation wins (and thus, the expected intersection of the resulting SDR with the closest matching previously stored SDR) to decrease towards chance. In other words, this G-based modulation of the distributions, which can be viewed as varying the amount of noise in the choice process, achieves similarity preservation. I encourage members of this community to explore the app to understand this simple and more powerful alternative to LSH. I welcome your feedback. Sincerely, Rod Rinkus -- Gerard (Rod) Rinkus, PhD President, rod at neurithmicsystems dot com Neurithmic Systems LLC <http://sparsey.com> 275 Grove Street, Suite 2-400 Newton, MA 02466 617-997-6272 Visiting Scientist, Lisman Lab Volen Center for Complex Systems Brandeis University, Waltham, MA grinkus at brandeis dot edu http://people.brandeis.edu/~grinkus/ <http://people.brandeis.edu/%7Egrinkus/>

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Postdoc position in Geometric Methods for Deep and Reinforcement Learning at RIST
by Luigi Malagò Aug. 2, 2018

Aug. 2, 2018

=========================================================== *Subject*: Postdoc position in Machine Learning (1 year, renewable up to 2 years) *Institution*: RIST - Romanian Institute of Science and Technology, Cluj-Napoca *Keywords*: Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Stochastic Optimization, Optimization over Manifolds, Information Geometry, Riemannian Geometry *Application deadline*: 15 August 2018 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) *Salary*: around 2200 euro net *Official announcement*: http://rist.ro/en/details/news/postdoc-positio ns-in-deep-learning-and-machine-learning.html =========================================================== Dear colleagues, the Romanian Institute of Science and Technology (RIST) has an opening for a postdoc position, in the context of the DeepRiemann project “Riemannian Optimization Methods for Deep Learning”, funded by European structural funds through the Competitiveness Operational Program (POC 2014-2020). The appointments will be for 1 year, with possible extensions up to 2 years. The DeepRiemann project aims at the design and analysis of novel training algorithms for Neural Networks in Deep Learning, by applying notions of Riemannian optimization and differential geometry. The task of the training a Neural Network is studied by employing tools from Optimization over Manifolds and Information Geometry, by casting the learning process to an optimization problem defined over a statistical manifold, i.e., a set of probability distributions. The project is highly interdisciplinary, with competences spanning from Machine Learning to Optimization, Deep Learning, Statistics, and Differential Geometry. The objectives of the project are multiple and include both theoretical and applied research, together with industrial activities oriented to transfer knowledge, from the institute to a startup or spin-off of the research group. The positions will be part of the new Machine Learning and Optimization group https://rist.ro/en/teams.html, which performs research at the intersection of Machine Learning, Stochastic Optimization, Deep Learning, and Optimization over Manifolds, using geometric methods based on Information Geometry. The group is one of two newly-formed groups in Machine Learning at RIST. The official job announcement can be seen here: http://rist.ro/en/details/news/postdoc-positions-in-deep-lea rning-and-machine-learning.html Informal inquiries can be sent to Dr. Luigi Malagò <malago(a)rist.ro>, principal investigator of the DeepRiemann project. Application deadline: 15 August 2018 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) best regards, Luigi Malagò

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PhD positions at the Univ. of Leicester (for UK/EU candidates only)
by Okun, Michael (Dr.) Aug. 2, 2018

Aug. 2, 2018

Fully Funded PhD Studentships (for UK/EU candidates only) to work at Prof. Quian Quiroga's lab at the Centre for Systems Neuroscience, University of Leicester, UK ( www.le.ac.uk/csn ). The Centre for Systems Neuroscience at the University of Leicester, UK, offers up to 2, 3-Year Fully Funded (stipend plus fees) PhD positions for UK/EU candidates, to study single cell recordings in humans – performed in epileptic patients for curative surgery. The project will investigate concept cells (a.k.a. Jennifer Aniston neurons) – that means, neurons in the hippocampus and surrounding areas that selectively fire to specific concepts, like different pictures and the written or spoken name of a particular person (e.g. Quian Quiroga et al, Nature 2005; Quian Quiroga Nature Reviews Neuroscience 2012), which are involved in declarative memory functions. The successful candidate will contribute to performing recordings with patients in collaborating hospitals and the analysis of the data to investigate the role of these neurons in memory formation. Candidates should have very good quantitative skills (data processing, and programing e.g. in Matlab) and a strong background or interest in neuroscience. They should be able to work both independently and as part of a research team within the Centre for System Neuroscience at Leicester and with our external collaborators. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Emma Hawkins, Research Centre Manager, eeh18(a)le.ac.uk or 0116 252 3249. Interested candidates should send their curriculum vitae and a brief description of their scientific interests to Emma Hawkins (eeh18(a)le.ac.uk) The closing date for the applications is Friday 5th September. Interviews are anticipated to take place on the 12th September.

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CfP : Workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning, IEEE ICDL 2018
by Nguyen, Sao Mai July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

*2nd Call for Contributions* IEEE ICDL -2018 workshop on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning 17th September 2018, Tokyo, Japan Website : http://conferences.au.dk/icdl-epirob-2018-workshop Participants are invited to submit short papers (max 4 pages) following the standard IEEE conference template. Selected contributions will be presented during the workshop as spotlight talks and in a poster session. Authors will be invited to submit extended versions of their papers for a special issue on Continual Unsupervised Sensorimotor Learning at IEEE TCDS. ================================================================== Scope As the algorithms for learning single tasks in restricted environments are improving, new challenges have gained relevance. They include multi-task learning, multimodal sensorimotor learning in open worlds and lifelong adaptation to injury, growth and ageing. In this workshop we will discuss the developmental processes involved in the emergence of representations of action and perception in humans and artificial agents in continual learning. These processes include action-perception cycle, active perception, continual sensory-motor learning, environmental-driven scaffolding, and intrinsic motivation. The discussion will be strongly motivated by behavioural and neural data. We hope to provide a discussion friendly environment to connect with research with similar interest regardless of their area of expertise which could include robotics, computer science, psychology, neuroscience, etc. We would also like to devise a roadmap or strategies to develop mathematical and computational models to improve robot performance and/or to attempt to unveil the underlying mechanisms that lead to continual adaptation to changing environment or embodiment and continual learning in open-ended environments. The primary list of topics covers the following (but not limited to): - Emergence of representations via continual interaction - Continual sensory-motor learning - Action-perception cycle - Active perception - Environmental-driven scaffolding - Intrinsic motivation - Neural substrates, neural circuits and neural plasticity - Human and animal behaviour experiments and models - Reinforcement learning and deep reinforcement learning for life-long learning - Multisensory robot learning - Multimodal sensorimotor learning - Affordance learning - Prediction learning Invited Speakers - Jochen Triesch, Frankfurt Institute of Advanced Studies, Germany - Emre Ugur, Boğaziçi University, Turkey (to be confirmed) - Yukie Nagai, Center for Information and Neural Networks, Japan (to be confirmed) - David Ha, Google Brain (to be confirmed) Call for Papers: Prospective participants in the workshop are required to submit a contribution as a short paper (max 4 pages) Submissions must be in PDF following the standard IEEE conference style <https://www.ieee.org/conferences/publishing/templates.html>. Send your PDF manuscript indicating [ICDL-EPIROB 2018] in the subject to: erhan.oztop(a)ozyegin.edu.tr Selected contributions will be presented during the workshop as spotlight talks and in a poster session. Contributors to the workshop will be encouraged to submit extended versions of the manuscripts to a special issue at IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems (TCDS). Submissions will be peer reviewed consistent with the journal practices. Important Dates: Paper submission deadline: 5th August 2018 Notification of acceptance: 20th August 2018 Camera-ready version: 9th September 2018 Half-day workshop: 17th September 2018 Organizers: - Nicolás Navarro-Guerrero, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark - Sao Mai Nguyen, IMT Atlantique, France - Erhan Öztop, Özyeğin University, Turkey - Junpei Zhong, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan Nguyen Sao Mai nguyensmai(a)gmail.com Researcher in Cognitive Developmental Robotics http://nguyensmai.free.fr

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[CFP] IROS-2018 Workshop: Towards Intelligent Social Robots: From Naive Robots to Robot Sapiens
by Amir Aly July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

CALL FOR PAPERS **Apologies for cross posting ** We are pleased to call for papers for the IROS-2018 workshop: "*Towards Intelligent Social Robots: From Naive Robots to Robot Sapiens*" In conjunction with the *IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS)** - Madrid - Spain - October * *5th, 2018* *Webpage: **http://intelligent-social-robots-ws.com/* <http://intelligent-social-robots-ws.com/> *I. Aim and Scope *Robots that cook creatively, clean up our rooms dutifully, entertain our guests wittily and keep us company loyally. Robots that assist human users in their daily chores and provide support in times of need. Researchers around the world have envisioned such robot companions for a long time. Thanks to numerous innovations in sensor technology and software development, robots are now increasingly able to plan complex tasks in unknown environments, learn from experience and adapt to changes in the environment. The greatest challenges in robotics now lie in the development of robot skills and high-level AI-based functionalities that enable robots to work effectively in close collaboration with humans. Aside from the numerous technical challenges, which must be overcome before this vision can become a reality, multi-disciplinary research efforts are also invested into the social engineering of robots. In order to engineer “smart” robots that we accept, trust and welcome into our homes, it is paramount that we identify and investigate the factors that affect social interactions between humans and robots. For this purpose, computer scientists, AI researchers, engineers and psychologists tackle important questions that will determine whether robots will be perceived as helpful and reliable companions or as irritating nuisances. How should robots look, behave and communicate with us? What are our expectations of robot behavior in a social context? How can robots learn using the capabilities of their environments to achieve tasks and to address the needs of their human co-inhabitants? What kind of robot intelligence is required for what kind of tasks? In this workshop, participants will discuss with seasoned experts and young researchers what defines social and artificial intelligence for “smart” robots and how modern technological advances can equip robots with such intelligence. As such, this workshop aims to shed light on the intersection between cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and robotics research both from the theoretical and technical perspectives. Recent advances and possible avenues for future research in the field of “smart” robotics are principal topics of discussion during the workshop. ** *This workshop is endorsed by the IEEE Technical Committees*: *Human-Robot Interaction and Coordination, Cognitive Robotics, and Robot Learning*. *II. Keynote Speakers * 1. * Angelo Cangelosi *– University of Manchester/Plymouth – UK 2. *Yiannis Aloimonos *– University of Maryland – USA 3. * Selma Sabanovic *– Indiana University – USA 4. *Michael Beetz* – University of Bremen – Germany 5. *Matthias Scheutz *– Tufts University – USA *III. Submission * 1. For paper submission, use the following EasyChair web link: *Paper Submission <https://easychair.org/account/signin.cgi?key=75348348.9VXAN4Pe7LmBAKCx;time…>* . 2. Use the IEEE style (two-column format – US letter): *IEEE Templates <https://www.ieee.org/conferences/publishing/templates.html>*. 3. Submitted papers should be limited to 2-6 pages maximum. The primary list of topics covers the following points (but not limited to): - Multimodal human robot interaction - Cognitive modeling of human behavior - Cognitive architectures and strategies for intelligent interaction with the environment - AI and machine learning approaches applied to human-robot-environment interaction - Cloud robotics and ubiquitous computing - Ambient assisted living - Human intention recognition and prediction - Robot acceptance - Social engineering - Language learning, embodiment, and social intelligence - Computational modeling for high-level human cognitive functions - Predictive learning from sensorimotor information - Multimodal interaction and concept formulation - Language and action development - Learning, reasoning, and adaptation in collaborative human-robot tasks - Affordance learning - Learning by demonstration and imitation - Language and grammar induction in robots * IV. Important Dates * 1. Paper submission: *20-August-2018 * 2. Notification of acceptance: *30-August-2018* 3. Camera-ready version:* 7-September-2018 * 4. Workshop: *5-October-2018* *V. Organizers * 1. *Amir Aly *– Ritsumeikan University – Japan 2. *Sascha Griffiths *– Hamburg University – Germany 3. * Verena Nitsch *– Bundeswehr University – Germany 4. *Katerina Pastra* – Cognitive Systems Research Institute – Greece 5. *Tadahiro Taniguchi* – Ritsumeikan University – Japan ---------------------- *Amir Aly, Ph.D.* Senior Researcher Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

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3 Independent Academic Fellowship positions Computational Neuroscience
by Mark van Rossum July 31, 2018

July 31, 2018

Academic Fellowship positions The University of Nottingham is a research intensive university ranked in the top 10 in the UK and in the top 30 of Europe. It has a strong tradition in Cognition, Perception, Mathematical Biology, and structural and functional Imaging. To support further development across these areas, and stimulate new research opportunities, the University has recently made a major investment in Computational Neuroscience. As part of this investment we are inviting applications for three independent fellowships (3 years). The positions are ideal for researchers with a strong vision that are planning to develop their own research group in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment with outstanding research facilities. We are interested in candidates working across a broad spectrum of research topics areas in Computational Neuroscience, including functional neuroimaging, neural networks, and models of cognition. Research methodologies could include numerical simulation, machine learning, theoretical neuroscience, and innovative data analysis. The Fellows will be based in the School of Psychology and/or Mathematical Sciences. For the online application form see https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/SCI219418 Informal inquiries: Prof Mark van Rossum, mark.vanrossum(a)nottingham.ac.uk, or Prof Mark Humphries, lpzmdh(a)exmail.nottingham.ac.uk. -- Mark van Rossum, Professor, Schools of Psychology and Maths, U Nottingham Psych Bldg Rm LG.19, 44-115-74 86851, 44-7722049644 This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

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CFP: Workshop on Crossmodal Learning for Intelligent Robotics in conjunction with IEEE/RSJ IROS 2018
by Pablo Barros July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

**Apologies for cross-posting** 1st CALL FOR PAPERS for the international workshop: * Crossmodal Learning for Intelligent Robotics * in conjunction with IEEE/RSJ IROS 2018 * Madrid, Spain - Friday 5 October 2018 * * Website: http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/WorkshopCLIR18/index.php * I. Aim and Scope The ability to efficiently process crossmodal information is a key feature of the human brain that provides a robust perceptual experience and behavioural responses. Consequently, the processing and integration of multisensory information streams such as vision, audio, haptics and proprioception play a crucial role in the development of autonomous agents and cognitive robots, yielding an efficient interaction with the environment also under conditions of sensory uncertainty. Multisensory representations have been shown to improve performance in the research areas of human-robot interaction and sensory-driven motor behaviour. The perception, integration, and segregation of multisensory cues improve the capability to physically interact with objects and persons with higher levels of autonomy. However, the multisensory input must be represented and integrated in an appropriate way so that they result in a reliable perceptual experience aimed to trigger adequate behavioural responses. The interplay of multisensory representations can be used to solve stimulus-driven conflicts for executive control. Embodied agents can develop complex sensorimotor behaviour through the interaction with a crossmodal environment, leading to the development and evaluation of scenarios that better reflect the challenges faced by operating robots in the real world. This half-day workshop focuses on presenting and discussing new findings, theories, systems, and trends in crossmodal learning applied to neurocognitive robotics. The workshop will feature a list of invited speakers with outstanding expertise in crossmodal learning. II. Target Audience This workshop is open to doctoral students and senior researchers working in computer and cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience and related areas with the focus on crossmodal learning. III. Confirmed Speakers 1. * Yulia Sandamirskaya * Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI), University and ETH Zurich 2. * Angelo Cangelosi * Plymouth University and University of Manchester, UK 3. * Stefan Wermter * Hamburg University, Germany IV. Submission 1. Topics of interest: - New methods and applications for crossmodal processing (e.g., integrating vision, audio, haptics, proprioception) - Machine learning and neural networks for multisensory robot perception - Computational models of crossmodal attention and perception - Bio-inspired approaches for crossmodal learning - Crossmodal conflict resolution and executive control - Sensorimotor learning for autonomous agents and robots - Crossmodal learning for embodied and cognitive robots 2. For paper submission, use the following IEEE template: <http://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php>* 3. Submitted papers should be limited to *2 pages (extended abstract)* or *4 pages (short paper)*. 4. Send your pdf file to barros(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de AND jirak(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de Selected contributions will be presented during the workshop as spotlight talks and in a poster session. Contributors to the workshop will be invited to submit extended versions of the manuscripts to a special issue (to be arranged). Submissions will be peer reviewed consistent with the journal practices. V. Important Dates * Paper submission deadline: August 15, 2018 * Notification of acceptance: September 5, 2018 * Camera-ready version: September 15, 2018 * Workshop: Friday 5 October 2018 VI. Organizers * German I. Parisi * Hamburg University, Germany * Pablo Barros * Hamburg University, Germany * Doreen Jirak * Hamburg University, Germany * Jun Tani * Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan * Yoonsuck Choe * Samsung Research & Texas A&M University, TX, USA -- Dr.rer.nat. Pablo Barros Postdoctoral Research Associate - Crossmodal Learning Project (CML) Knowledge Technology Department of Informatics University of Hamburg Vogt-Koelln-Str. 30 22527 Hamburg, Germany Phone: +49 40 42883 2535 Fax: +49 40 42883 2515 barros at informatik.uni-hamburg.de https://www.inf.uni-hamburg.de/en/inst/ab/wtm/people/barros.html https://www.inf.uni-hamburg.de/en/inst/ab/wtm/

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Four-year PhD in Computational Psychiatry at University College London
by Hrvoje Stojic July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

Four-year PhD in Computational Psychiatry at University College London The International Max Planck Research School on Computational Methods in Psychiatry and Ageing Research (https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en) seeks applicants for PhD fellowships to be based at University College London (UCL). The PhD programme is strongly interdisciplinary and invites applications from potential students with a broad range of backgrounds including, but not limited to, neuroscience, mathematics, statistics, machine learning, computer science, physics, psychology, and medicine. This is an international doctoral programme of the Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, which has sites in London and Berlin. The programme offers unique training in concepts and methods from computer science and statistics in relation to substantive research questions in cognitive neuroscience, psychiatry, and lifespan psychology. Training involves seminars, methods workshops, participation in summer schools, and collaboratively supervised research. Students will take one module per semester for the first two years of the programme on topics that range from psychiatry and decision science to advanced computational and statistical methods. The main focus of the London site is to address cognitive and theoretical neuroscience questions relevant to understanding psychiatric disorders. Methods include neuroimaging and pharmacology, computational modelling of behaviour (learning, decision-making, emotion), and large-scale smartphone- and internet-based data collection. Students will have a primary supervisor within the Centre and possible supervisors include Tobias Hauser (http://v1.tobiashauser.ch/) and Quentin Huys (https://quentinhuys.com/) Collaboration is encouraged within the Centre and with other UCL departments including the Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging (https://www.fil.ion.ucl.ac.uk/) and Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit (http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/) We offer a generous four-year studentship stipend of £23,263 (tax free) per year, PhD registration fees at the current Home/EU rate, research expenses, and funds for travel to conferences or courses. (If you are an international student please note that this studentship only covers UK/EU fees and you will need to provide the difference between UK/EU and overseas fees.) Students will participate in international summer schools, seminars and workshops linked to the Berlin site, and have the opportunity to conduct a research project of up to 6 months in Berlin. Requirements: This is a highly competitive programme. Successful applicants should have, or expect to get, at least an upper 2nd class degree (or the foreign equivalent), and should have some familiarity with computational and statistical methods. Students wishing to undertake a PhD with Quentin Huys are expected to take and pass courses (http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/teaching/courses/index.html) at the Gatsby Computational Unit. The next intake of students will be October 2018 (with the possibility for a later start date). UCL is committed to employing more people with disabilities and especially encourages them to apply. UCL also seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. Deadline: 26 August 2018. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in early September 2018 via Skype. HOW TO APPLY. Please send: 1) a CV, 2) a statement of why you want to do the PhD (no more than 1 page), 3) a copy of your strongest piece of academic work (e.g., thesis, publication). Please also arrange for two reference letters to be sent to us by referees. Your surname should be the first word in the subject line of these emails. The statement should indicate which of the named supervisors you would be most interested in having as a primary supervisor (multiple faculty can be listed as potential supervisors). Please ensure that your surname is the first word in the subject line of the email and that all documents are clearly labelled with your surname and the type of document. All documents and references should be sent to MaxPlanckPhD(a)ucl.ac.uk by 26 August 2018 at midnight. Questions about the programme can be directed to MaxPlanckPhD(a)ucl.ac.uk.

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PhD Studentship, University College London, Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC)
by Andre Altmann July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

We are looking to fill a 4-year PhD studentship in the field of imaging genetics to work on drug resistant Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a group of neurological conditions that share the common characteristic of epileptic seizures. There are many types of epilepsy and many types of seizure. The diagnosis of epilepsy typically follows the occurrence of two or more seizures. While anyone can develop epilepsy at any point in life, it is most commonly diagnosed in children and people over 65 years of age. Currently, about 60 million people are suffering from epilepsy worldwide and over 500,000 in the UK alone. Anti-epileptic drugs (AED) are intended to reduce the frequency of seizures or even completely eliminate them. If AED treatment works, it allows people living with epilepsy to lead normal lives. However, in about one third of people none of the available drugs or combinations of drugs stop the seizures. These cases are considered treatment-resistant epilepsies and the underlying biology is still poorly understood. In this project, the successful candidate will help to advance knowledge about drug-resistant epilepsy. Using a large database of neuroimaging data from people with epilepsy, the first aim is to establish the imaging signature of drug-resistant epilepsy compared to drug-responsive epilepsy. That is, which brain regions show different cortical thickness or structural and functional connectivity changes in resistant vs responsive epilepsy? The second phase of the project involves an imaging-genetics approach to elucidate the genetic origin of drug-resistant epilepsy, which may help to identify drug targets for currently drug-resistant epilepsy. More information on requirements and the medical imaging CDT can be found here: http://medicalimaging-cdt.ucl.ac.uk/news/machine-learning-based-investigati… Kind regards, Andre

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ANDA 2019 - G-Node Advanced Neural Data Analysis Course, April 1-18, 2019, Jülich, Germany
by Thomas Wachtler July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

ANDA 2019 - G-NODE ADVANCED NEURAL DATA ANALYSIS COURSE April 1 - 18, 2019 Haus Overbach, Juelich-Barmen, Germany Techniques to record neuronal data from populations of neurons are rapidly improving. Simultaneous recordings from hundreds of channels are possible while animals perform complex behavioral tasks. The analysis of such massive and complex data becomes increasingly challenging. This advanced course aims at providing deeper training in state-of-the-art analysis approaches in systems neuroscience. The course is addressed to excellent master and PhD students and young researchers who are interested in learning advanced techniques in data analytics and in getting hands-on experience in the analysis of electrophysiological data. Internationally renowned researchers will give lectures on statistical data analysis and data mining methods with accompanying exercises. Students will define and perform their own analyses on provided data to solve a challenge. Participants are required to have a strong interest in data analysis, a background in a mathematical or related field, knowledge of algebra, matrix operations, and statistics, and need to have solid programming experience (preferably in Python). FACULTY · Moshe Abeles, Bar-Ilan Univ, Israel · Izhar Bar Gad, Bar-Ilan Univ, Israel · Michael Denker, Juelich Research Center and RWTH Aachen Univ, Germany · Sonja Grün, Juelich Research Center and RWTH Aachen Univ, Germany · Björn Kampa, RWTH Aachen, Germany · Tatiana Korotkova, MPI and University of Cologne, Germany · Christian Machens, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Portugal · Martin Nawrot, University of Cologne, Germany · Yifat Prut, Hebrew Univ Jerusalem, Israel · Alexa Riehle, CNRS, Marseille, France · Alexander Thiele, University of Newcastle, UK · Thomas Wachtler, G-Node, LMU Munich, Germany TOPICS COVERED Single neuron properties and statistics · Stochastic processes · Surrogate methods · Detection of spatio-temporal patterns · Unitary Events · Statistical analysis of massively parallel spike data · Higher-order correlation analyses · Spike-LFP relationship · Population coding · State space analysis · Machine learning · Data mining · Data management, reproducibility, data sharing · Elephant toolbox REQUIREMENTS Applicants should be familiar with linear algebra, probability, differential and integral calculus and experienced using Python or Matlab. Preparatory reading material will be provided. Students should bring their own laptops and should be able to install software on their system. Students that do not have a suitable laptop should indicate this immediately after acceptance to the course. We will be able to provide a small number of laptops for the time of the course. COURSE FEE A course fee of 1000 Euros will be charged to cover costs for accommodation and meals. Limited financial support may be available for students that otherwise would not be able to attend, which is to be indicated in the application. HOUSING Accommodation in 2-bed rooms for students will be provided at the course site. HOW TO APPLY The application should include · a letter of motivation (max 1 page) · curriculum vitae (please indicate the relevant courses you have taken) · description of programming experience · a letter of recommendation. Please send all documents as a single PDF file to <advanced-course(a)g-node.org>. APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications must be received by SEPTEMBER 30, 2018. Early application is encouraged. For further information see http://www.g-node.org/anda2019 ORGANIZERS · Sonja Grün, Juelich Research Center and RWTH Aachen Univ, Germany · Martin Nawrot, University of Cologne, Germany · Yifat Prut, Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel · Thomas Wachtler, G-Node, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany

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Call for participants – workshop on Computational Neuroscience and Robotics: Astrocyte-Neuron interactions, Spiking Neural Networks and Autonomous robotics. University of York, 3-5 Sep 2018.
by David Halliday July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

This 2.5 day workshop in the historic city of York is accepting applications for participation. We have invited speakers from USA, EU and UK. Due to sponsorship from EPSRC we can offer free registration for all participants. Free accommodation is available for PhD, early career researchers and workshop presenters. Travel bursaries for registered PhD students are also available. For an up to date list of speakers and details of how to register see the website: https://www.york.ac.uk/spanner-workshop We are still accepting abstracts for posters or contributed talks. Further details: https://www.york.ac.uk/spanner-workshop

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Cognitive Computing - Merging Concepts with Hardware - Call for Abstracts: Deadline Approaching: July 31
by Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

- - - Call for Abstracts: Deadline Approaching: July 31 - - - COGNITIVE COMPUTING: MERGING CONCEPTS WITH HARDWARE December 18-20, 2018, Hannover, Germany http://www.cognitive-comp.org/ ** An interdisciplinary networking event / scientific conference ** We would like to draw your attention to a slightly unorthodox scientific community event that could be realized with the generous support from the Volkswagen Foundation, Germany’s largest private organization for the advancement of scientific research. The aim of this event is to work towards a general, productive, and rigorous theory of “computing” in non-digital, nonlinear physical substrates. Biological brains and unconventional computing machines would become understandable as different instantiations of the same underlying principles. Three scientific communities, namely • cognitive and computational neurosciences, • theory of computation, and • nonlinear materials, devices and systems have since long been exploring diverse facets of such principles of non-digital computing. But differences in terminology, discipline-specific objectives and a scattered spectrum of formal methods have handicapped cross-fertilization. Everything in this conference is geared toward stimulating linkages between these fields: • single-track with rather few, rather long oral presentations, • long break and poster session times for person-to-person talking, • keynote and plenary speakers of interdisciplinary renown, • a limited (200) number of participants, • a splendid setting in the Castle of Herrenhausen, a heritage of the Kings of Hannover, with adjoining hectares of classical French gardening. Invited speakers: • Kwabena Boahen, Stanford University • Joanna J. Bryson, Univ. of Bath and Princeton University • Chris Eliasmith, University of Waterloo • Edward A. Lee, UC Berkeley • Demetri Psaltis, EPFL Lausanne • Pieter Roelfsema, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam & Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience • Susan Stepney, University of York • Ipke Wachsmuth, University of Bielefeld • David Wolpert, Santa Fe Institute We solicit the submission of 2-page abstracts, with themes oriented toward our five topical sessions: • applications of unconventional computing systems, • theoretical concepts and mathematical foundations, • neuromorphic hardware, • novel physical substrates, • guides from neuroscience for computing technologies, encouraging survey / introductory / didactic contributions (besides the standard discipline-specific result reports which are also possible). Detailed information can be found on http://www.cognitive-comp.org/ and in the Call for Abstracts that is posted there. Timelines: • Abstract submission: July 31 • Notification of acceptance: September 30 • Final abstract for online publication: October 31 Registration fees: • Students (incl. PhD students): 150 Euro • Others (academic): 300 Euro • Industry: 900 Euro Contributors of accepted oral presentations will be exempted from fees and will receive travel refunding. The organizers: • Daniel Brunner (photonics, neuromorphic architectures; University of Besançon) • Herbert Jaeger (machine learning, nonlinear dynamics; Jacobs University Bremen) • Stuart Parkin (nano systems, quantum electronic materials; Max-Planck-Institute for Microstructure Physics, Halle) • Gordon Pipa (neuroinformatics and cognitive computing; University of Osnabrück)

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PhD Studentship, University of Osnabrueck- Research Training School on Computaional Cognition
by Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa July 30, 2018

July 30, 2018

We are looking for 9 PhD candidate for Research Training School funded by the DFG (German science foundation) on "Computational Cognition". The positions are to be filled by October 1, 2018 for a period of 3 years. More information: http://computational-cognition.eu/ https://www.uni-osnabrueck.de/universitaet/stellenangebote/stellenangebote_d etail/109_ikw_phd_candidates.html The RTG Computational Cognition aims at reintegrating Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence. PhD students of the RTG will be educated in both subjects in order to combine the findings of these fields and thus to get a better understanding of human and machine intelligence. Research fields involved in the RTG are Neuroinformatics, Neurobiopsychology, Bio-Inspired Computer Vision, Knowledge-Based Systems, Cognitive Natural Language Processing & Communication, Cognitive Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Psycho/Neurolinguistics, Computational Linguistics and Cognitive Computing. The RTG will focus on the integration of two research fields and has a focus on machine learning, deep learning and dynamical systems, computer vision combined with experimental methods including EEG and Eye tracking. Detailed information on the core areas of the offered PhD projects can be obtained from the spokesmen of the RTG, Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa (gpipa(a)uni-osnabrueck.de) and Prof. Dr. Peter König (pkoenig(a)uni-osnabrueck.de) The RTG will be incorporated into the Cognitive Science PhD program founded in 2002. PhD students of the RTG will take advantage of an interdisciplinary environment, which nevertheless focuses on a common research topic and offers a broad range of methodological synergies between the projects. Required Qualifications: Applicants are expected to have an academic degree (Master/Diploma), experience in at least one of the domains listed above, proven experience in interdisciplinary work as well as a good command of the English language. Osnabrück University has been certified as a family-friendly university committed to helping working/studying parents and carers balance their family and work life. The university aspires to ensure equal opportunities for men and women and strives to work towards a gender balance in schools or departments where new appointments are made. If equally qualified candidates apply, preference will be given to those with special needs. Applications with the usual documentation should be submitted by e-mail in a single PDF file to the director of the Institute of Cognitive Science, Prof. Dr. Kai-Uwe Kühnberger (kkuehnbe(a)uni-osnabrueck.de) with a cc to office(a)ikw.uni-osnabrueck.de no later than August 23, 2018.We will consider applicants who have: Best Gordon ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------- Professor and Chair of the Neuroinformatics Department Dr. rer. nat. Gordon Pipa Institute of Cognitive Science, Room 50/218 University of Osnabrueck Wachsbleiche 27, 49090 Osnabrück, Germany tel. +49 (0) 541-969-2277 fax (private). +49 (0) 5405- 500 80 98 home office. +49 (0) 5405- 500 90 95 e-mail: gpipa(a)uos.de webpage: http://www.ni.uos.de research gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gordon_Pipa/?ev=prf_act linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/gordon-pipa-47771539 Personal Assistent and Secretary of the Neuroinformatic lab: Anna Jungeilges Tel. +49 (0)541 969-2390 Fax +49 (0)541 969-2246 Email: anna.jungeilges(a)uni-osnabrueck.de visit us on http://www.facebook.com/CognitiveScienceOsnabruck https://twitter.com/#!/CogSciUOS

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PhD position in Neuroscience available immediately (Italy / USA)
by Marco Tamietto July 27, 2018

July 27, 2018

A new European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator grant starts at the University of Torino, Italy, for 5 years (~ 2 million euros). The grant “LIGHTUP – Turning the cortically blind brain to see” is awarded to prof. Marco Tamietto (www.marcotamietto.com) The project investigates the neural correlates of visual awareness and of non-conscious vision in patients with *blindsight* and in non-human primates (macaques) with V1 destruction. To this aim, a broad range of methods will be used, including 3T and 7T (f)MRI, neurophysiological recordings and brain stimulation (TMS). The project is embedded in an outstanding international and interdisciplinary context, including the University of Oxford (UK), Tilburg University (NL) and NIH (USA), with granted access to their excellent facilities. We offer a full-time PhD Student post for 4 years. Applications of highly motivated candidates with interests in systems neuroscience, vision sciences and neuroimaging are welcomed. The successful applicant will be appointed by the University of Torino, but he/she will be expected to spend a significant amount of time at the NIH in Bethesda (USA). In fact, the PhD student will be co-supervised by prof. M. Tamietto and prof. D. Leopold, and the position is specifically focused on behavioural and fMRI studies in non-human primates. For further information please visit http://www.marcotamietto.com or contact Prof. M. Tamietto (marco.tamietto(a)unito.it) or Prof. D. Leopold ( leopoldd(a)mail.nih.gov)

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[Deadline Approaching] CfP: CI Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data at BI 2018, Texas, Dec. 7-9.
by Mufti Mahmud July 24, 2018

July 24, 2018

*[Apologies for cross posting.]* *Call for Paper for Special Session on* *Computationally Intelligent Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data* *11th Brain Informatics Conference (BI 2018), Arlington, Texas, USA, December 7-9, 2018* *Web: http://uta.engineering/conferences/bi-2018/ <http://uta.engineering/conferences/bi-2018/>* Organizers: *Mufti Mahmud1, M Shamim Kaiser2, Ning Zhong3, Nitish V Thakor4* *1 **Computing and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, NG11 8NS – Nottingham, UK* 2*Institute of Information Technology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, 1342 – Dhaka, Bangladesh* 3*Dept. of Life Science and Informatics, Maebashi Institute of Technology, 371-0816 - Maebashi-City, Japan* *4**Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, 117456 – Singapore; &* *Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21205 – MD, USA* *Introduction:* The brain receives and processes information simultaneously coming from diverse sources. The neurons, being the basic information processing units, interconnect to each other to form hierarchical and/or parallel pathways. Technologies related to neural systems engineering have been employed to study these pathways along with processing and modelling of neuronal data for disease diagnosis and brain decoding purposes. Combining both experimental and computational approaches in recent years, thanks to the advancements in neurotechniques, scientists can access large amount of neuronal data and apply computationally intelligent and nature-inspired machine learning techniques including deep learning and reinforcement learning on those data to suggest next generation experimental design aiming to decipher brain’s information processing capabilities and diagnose its diseases. *Scope:* Developing data-intensive and intelligent tools, as well as sophisticated neurotechniques, to process and analyse the neuronal big data is one of the biggest challenges posed to today’s multidisciplinary brain science community. To share recent progress in decoding neuronal information processing, both in healthy and diseased brain, this special session aims to provide a forum for scientists from diverse disciplines including – computer, electrical, biomedical, and neuro engineering – who are looking for more relevant information in interpreting brain functions and diagnosing diseases using expert and computationally intelligent systems. This special session expects to attract papers on recent research progress in the area of intelligent computational tools and techniques in acquiring and processing neuronal big data. The focus areas include, but not limited to, the following: Ø Neural systems engineering and technology to study neural pathways; Ø Processing and modelling of neuronal data for disease diagnosis and brain decoding; Ø Bio-inspired methods for network analysis and pattern recognition in neural data; Ø Novel machine learning techniques for neuronal big data analysis; Ø Application of deep and reinforcement learning to neuronal big data analysis; Ø Computationally intelligent techniques for neuroscience applications; Ø Neuroinformatics (including cloud computing and real-time systems); Ø Cognitive science applications (learning, workload, decision making, etc.) and data analytics; Ø Computational and imaging methods for human brain connectome; and Ø Information analysis in human brain machine interface (invasive, noninvasive). *Submission of papers:* Submit Springer Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) complaint – 10 page – pdf paper to the Special Session following the steps below: Ø Prepare the paper as per the Springer LNCS template from: http://www.springer.com/us/computer-science/lncs/conference-proceedings-gui… Ø Visit https://wi-lab.com/cyberchair/2018/bi18/scripts/ws_submit.php?subarea=S Ø Select the link: Special session on Computationally Intelligent Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data Ø Select the link Submit a New Paper (TYPE I Submission) Ø Provide paper details (i.e., Author(s), Paper Title, Abstract, Keywords, PDF file to upload). *Important dates:* Ø Paper submission deadline: *30 July 2018* Ø Decision notification: *30 August 2018* Ø Special Session date: *7 December 2018* Ø Conference dates: *8-9 December 2018*. With kindest regards, *Mufti Mahmud, PhD* | (Senior) Lecturer of Computing & Technology <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/sat/about/academic_teams/comp_tech.html> | School of Science & Technology <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/sat/> | Nottingham Trent University <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/> Office: ERD200 | Erasmus Darwin Building | Clifton Campus | NG11 8NS – Nottingham | United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)115 84 83202 | Email: mufti.mahmud(a)ntu.ac.uk Meeting requests: https://doodle.com/mufti <http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2037-8348> http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2037-8348 https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=L8em2YoAAAAJ&hl=en https://sites.google.com/site/muftimahmud/ https://www.ntu.ac.uk/staff-profiles/science-technology/mufti-mahmud Senior Member, IEEE <https://www.ieee.org/> & ACM <https://www.acm.org/> Associate Editor, IEEE Access <http://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/> Editorial Board Member, Cognitive Computation <https://www.springer.com/biomed/neuroscience/journal/12559> & Big Data Analytics <https://bdataanalytics.biomedcentral.com/> Student consultation hours: Drop-in sessions on Thursdays between 11.00 am and 12.30 pm. Appointments for a different time can also be arranged through email.

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Postdoc in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience (closing 29 July; EPSRC funded)
by James Rankin July 24, 2018

July 24, 2018

**closes soon*, on 29 July* *Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience* Location: College of Engineering, Mathematics, Physical Sciences at the University of Exeter (Streatham Campus) Job reference: P62935 Application closing date: *29/07/2018* Interview date: *10/08/2018* Salary From £34,520 on Grade F, dependent on knowledge, skills and experience This new full-time post is available from *1st October 2018* on a fixed term contract basis for *2 years*. The College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to participate in the project Neural oscillator network modelling of auditory stream segregation. This EPSRC funded post is available from 01/10/2018 for 2 years. The successful candidate will join the Systems Biomedicine and Dynamical Systems research groups housed in the recently launched GBP 50m Living Systems Institute at the University of Exeter. These groups house over 50 researchers applying mathematical and computation approaches to study problems in neuroscience, biology and healthcare. The project will benefit from input from colleagues with expertise in neural networks, bifurcation theory, coupled oscillators and numerical methods. The Post: The project will involve developing mathematical and computational models to deepen our understanding of auditory stream segregation. This is a fundamental process in the auditory system that allows us to separate out and focus on distinct sound streams (e.g. voices) in a dynamic noisy environment. This process involves competition in order to resolve different interpretations of a given environment (e.g. different groupings of objects). Many aspects of this process are still not well understood, such as where in the brain segregation of streams is achieved, how the streams are encoded and the driving neural mechanisms. This project will develop a biologically motivated model inspired by a broad cross section of modelling and experimental literature (from anatomical, neurophysiological, brain imaging and behavioural experiments). The models developed will be based on networks of coupled neural oscillators. Neural oscillations are understood to be vital for the encoding of temporal information in auditory streaming. Dynamical systems theory including bifurcation analysis and numerical methods will provide the necessary tools to understand the dynamics of the models developed. About you: - Candidates with quantitative backgrounds (Mathematics, Physics, Engineering) and from Neuroscience programmes with a strong computational component are encouraged to apply. - Applicants will possess a PhD or equivalent in one of these areas or a related field. T - You will also be able to work collaboratively and supervise the work of others. - Programming experience in a high-level language (e.g. Matlab, Python, C/C++) is a must and knowledge of dynamical systems theory is a plus. - Experience working on interdisciplinary projects involving the application of mathematical and computational tools to problems in Biology or Neuroscience will be viewed favourably. The University offers some fantastic benefits including 41 days leave per year, options for flexible working, numerous discounts at leading retailers, onsite gym, cycle to work scheme, sector leading policies around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a new Fertility Treatment Policy; and a stunning campus environment in the heart of Exeter. If you are not currently in Exeter please have a look at our website for some further information on what a beautiful part of the country we are based in. *For further information, please contact Dr James Rankin, email j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk <j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk>* https://jobs.exeter.ac.uk/hrpr_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC1 07GF.open?VACANCY_ID=258266M3V7&WVID=3817591jNg http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/jar226 The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer. We are officially recognised as a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.

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IMBIZO DEADLINE TOMORROW: IBRO Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo 2019
by Tim Vogels July 23, 2018

July 23, 2018

Dear all, I’d like to remind you that the deadline for next year's IBRO-Simons computational neuroscience imbizo is TOMORROW Tell your friends, and tell your students, especially your African students, as we are still lacking a proper pipeline to disseminate this information. The Imbizo is a summer school in computational neuroscience and machine learning, hosted January 6th - 27th 2019 in Cape Town, South Africa. We are generously sponsored by the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO) and the Simons Foundation (Simons). TO APPLY visit https://imbizo.africa <https://imbizo.africa/> IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHETHER YOU CAN AFFORD IT, BY ALL MEANS, APPLY. We have generous merit-based awards and stipends to give away!! The Imbizo is designed to introduce students with backgrounds in analytic fields (computer science, statistics, physics, mathematics, engineering, etc.) to the field of computational neuroscience. It will also benefit advanced experimental biologists who would like to learn more computational skills. It also provides an opportunity for students already working in computational neuroscience to do 3 weeks of intensive, focused work in a different sub-topic of the field. Students should generally be at Masters/early PhD level, and have completed at least a 2nd-year university level course in computer science, statistics, physics or mathematics. Some coding experience will also be helpful. More advanced level students (post-Docs, early career PIs) may also be accepted if they can motivate how the courses at the Imbizo could help their career. Well motivated, exceptional undergraduates will also be considered. African students are especially encouraged to apply. The faculty for 2019 include: Dora Angelaki (Bayor College, Houston) Demba Ba (Harvard Uni, Boston) Sophie Denève (ENS, Paris) Adrienne Fairhall (Univ of Washington, Seattle) Peter Latham (Univ College London) Timothy Lillicrap (Google Deepmind, London) Joseph Raimondo (Univ of Cape Town) Athanassia Papoutsi (IMBB-FORTH, Hellas) Srikanth Ramaswami (EPFL, Lausanne) Blake Richards (Univ Toronto) Andrew Trevelyan (Newcastle Univ., Newcastle) Misha Tsodyks (Weizmann Inst., Rehovot) Tim Vogels (Oxford) Byron Yu (Carnegie Mellon Univ, Pittsburgh) TO APPLY visit https://imbizo.africa <https://imbizo.africa/> "Imbizo" is an isiXhosa word, meaning "A gathering to share knowledge". The aim of the isiCNI is exactly this: to create an environment in which young African and international students can explore computational neuroscience together, forming strong friendships in the process. Three weeks of intensive lectures, tutorials, projects and fun! Who should apply? The Imbizo is designed to introduce students with backgrounds in analytic fields (computer science, statistics, physics, mathematics, engineering, etc.) to the field of computational neuroscience. It will also benefit advanced experimental biologists who would like to learn more computational skills. It also provides an opportunity for students already working in computational neuroscience to do 3 weeks of intensive, focused work in a different sub-topic of the field. Students should generally be at Masters/early PhD level, and have completed at least a 2nd-year university level course in computer science, statistics, physics or mathematics. Some coding experience will also be helpful. More advanced level students (post-Docs, early career PIs) may also be accepted if they can motivate how the courses at the Imbizo could help their career. Well motivated, exceptional undergraduates will also be considered. African students are especially encouraged to apply. What does it cost? The attendance fee for the isiCNI2019 is EUR 1,100.00. Thanks to our generous sponsors, significant bursaries are available to subsidise and waiver student fees, and provide some travel bursaries. Funding will be allocated according to need and merit. Please be sure to complete the relevant section of the application. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHETHER YOU CAN AFFORD IT, BY ALL MEANS, APPLY. We have generous merit-based awards and stipends to give away!!

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Invitation to Participate in Software Engineering Practices in Cognitive Modelling and Computational Neuroscience Survey
by Furkan Kurtaran July 23, 2018

July 23, 2018

Dear All, As a part of Master's thesis research, I am conducting an online survey on software engineering practices and problems in developing cognitive and neuroscientific architectures/frameworks/simulators and computational models on those platforms. If you have been involved in developing such cognitive/neuroscientific modelling tools and computational models on them, we will be grateful if you could answer our survey questions in the link given below: http://moodle.atilim.edu.tr/anket/index.php?r=survey/index&sid=579941&lang=… [1] The participation is voluntary and anonymous; the survey will take about 10 minutes. We hope to better understand and develop suggestions for improving cognitive modelling and computational neuroscience software from a software engineering point of view at the end of our research. As a symbol of gratitude of your participation, participants who complete the survey will be eligible for a prize draw for a $40 book check from Amazon. Best Regards, -- Furkan Kurtaran Computer Engineering Department Research Assistant Atilim University https://www.atilim.edu.tr/en/compe/page/1595/academic-staff Links: ------ [1] http://moodle.atilim.edu.tr/anket/index.php?r=survey/index&sid=579941&a…

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Software Development Position -- University of Tübingen
by Andrea Burgalossi July 18, 2018

July 18, 2018

A position as 'Data Analyst & Software Developer' is immediately available in the Burgalossi lab (www.burgalossilab.com) He/she will work closely with neuroscientists for developing software for the analysis of electrophysiological data and animal behavior (rodents). Specific tasks will also involve programming virtual-reality and/or video-tracking hardware, and developing software for the detection and scoring of animal behaviors. A strong quantitative background (e.g. degree in statistics, computer science, physics, mathematics, engineering, etc.) and excellent programming skills (e.g. MATLAB) are necessary. Background in neuroscience and experience in methods for neural data analysis are a plus. Candidates at various levels of academic degree (BSc, MSc, PhD) will be considered for this position. Applications should contain CV and names of at least two referees. Please send your application (or informal inquiries) electronically to Andrea Burgalossi (andrea.burgalossi(a)cin.uni-tuebingen.de) -- Andrea Burgalossi, PhD Cellular and Synaptic Basis of Behaviour Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN) Otfried-Müller-Straße 25 72076 Tübingen Tel: +49-(0)7071-29-88797 Fax: +49-(0)7071-29-25006 Lab web: burgalossilab.com CIN web: http://www.cin.uni-tuebingen.de

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HFSP postdoc in limbo, and perhaps at ENS
by Alessandro Treves July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

A postdoc is sought to join a HFSP-funded project to study analog cortical computations in linguistic processes. A collaboration with Naama Friedmann (TAU) and Remi Monasson (ENS) which includes, at SISSA, Sara Andreetta and several PhD students. Ideal candidates are interested in language but have expertise in mathematical approaches to neural computation - complementary to Sara's in behaviour. A fruitful interaction with Remi and his group may lead to a period based in Paris. Applications to be submitted by August 6, 2018, as indicated in https://www.sissa.it/bandi/selezione-pubblica-titoli-conferimento-di-n-1-as… (note: by 1pm!) with starting date Oct 1st. Inquiries at ale(a)sissa.it -- Alessandro Treves http://people.sissa.it/~ale/limbo.html SISSA - Cognitive Neuroscience, via Bonomea 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy +39-040-3787623 Ambassador (BlaBlaCar) +39-349-2504602

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Postdoctoral / Research Specialist position in Neural Circuits and Behavior @ Janelia (USA)
by Reiser, Michael July 15, 2018

July 15, 2018

Postdoctoral / Research Specialist position in Neural Circuits and Behavior https://www.janelia.org/lab/reiser-lab/positions The Reiser lab at the Janelia Research Campus seeks a creative scientist to join our endeavor to understand how the fly brain uses visual information to control behavior. We use behavioral, anatomical, imaging, electrophysiological, and computational techniques to crack the neural circuits for vision and navigation in Drosophila. This is an exciting time to be working on the fly brain. It is the golden age of Drosophila neuroanatomy—full brain connectomes and precise genetic access to nearly every cell type in the brain are on the horizon. It is likely that within the next few years the behavioral methods used for establishing functional roles for identified cell types will become rate limiting. We have developed a number of new instruments and methods for high-content behavioral analysis and are recruiting a scientist to help with the development and application of these new tools. In this position you would lead our efforts to apply these new tools to deeply map behavioral circuits. Many specific projects are possible that are related to active research topics in the lab (visual motion guided behaviors; visual place learning; central modulation of visual circuits). Requirements: - A keen interest in figuring out the brain. - Ph.D. in neuroscience, experimental biology, or a quantitative field. - Familiarity with diverse computing environments. - Experience in animal behavior, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, instrumentation, computer vision, machine learning, and/or computational neuroscience is a big plus. Janelia is a unique, exciting research environment near Washington, D.C., with abundant opportunities for collaboration and learning new things. Interested applicants should apply by email; please include your curriculum vitae and research interests and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to reiserm at janelia.hhmi.org. The Reiser lab is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment. Members of groups underrepresented in science are especially encouraged to apply. HHMI is an equal opportunity employer.

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Postdoctoral positions in Rinberg and Shoham labs
by Rinberg, Dmitry July 12, 2018

July 12, 2018

The Rinberg and Shoham labs at NYU Medical School are seeking to fill multiple postdoctoral positions at the interface of computational systems neuroscience and advanced neurotechnology. The goal of our studies is to elucidate how sensory information is represented in the brain, and how the brain extracts information relevant for behavior. We are using rodent olfaction as a model system, and employing multiple modern techniques including one- and two-photon imaging and patterned optogenetics, Si-probe electrophysiology, and psychophysics approaches. In addition to conventional tools, we are developing new cutting edge optical, opto-acoustic and computational tools for bidirectional neural interfacing and applying these tools towards high-precision probing and monitoring of information processing in behaving animals. The postdoctoral researches will be involved in joint and individual lab projects. This is an excellent opportunity for computationally and technologically inclined candidates to find their niche in-between developing cutting edge technologies and applying the technologies to fundamental scientific questions. Our labs are part of NYU’s vibrant world-class hub for computational systems neuroscience, and of NYU Tech4Health, a new biomedical technology development institute. An ideal candidate should have a background in neuroscience, physics/engineering and math. Knowledge and experience in optics, imaging, multi-neuron physiology and computational methods are a big plus. Please contact Dima Rinberg: rinberg(a)nyu.edu<mailto:rinberg@nyu.edu> or Shy Shoham: shoham(a)nyu.edu<mailto:shoham@nyu.edu> See also: www.rinberglab.com<http://www.rinberglab.com>, niel.net.technion.ac.il<http://niel.net.technion.ac.il> ------------------------------------------------------------ This email message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender by return email and delete the original message. Please note, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The organization accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. =================================

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Call for Papers: Workshop on Understanding Developmental Disorders at ICDL-EPIROB 2018
by Anja Philippsen July 12, 2018

July 12, 2018

==================================================== Workshop "Understanding Developmental Disorders: >From Computational Models to Assistive Technologies" ==================================================== Website: http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/icdlepirob2018_workshop/ Date: September 17, 2018 (full day) Venue: Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan We invite the submission of short papers (2-4 pages incl. references) to our workshop on "Understanding Developmental Disorders: From Computational Models to Assistive Technologies" which takes place in conjunction with the 8th Joint IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning and on Epigenetic Robotics (ICDL-EPIROB 2018) http://www.icdl-epirob.org The aim of this workshop is to bring together researchers from robotics, developmental psychology and cognitive sciences for discussing computational and theoretical models of developmental disorders and of typical development, and sharing recent advances in robot therapy and assistive technology. Invited speakers include: - Tony Belpaeme (ID Labs, Ghent University, Belgium / CRNS, Plymouth University, UK) - Thusha Rajendran (Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh) - Shinichiro Kumagaya (Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The University of Tokyo) - Yasuyo Minagawa (Keio University, Tokyo) We encourage submissions about ongoing work from various research fields with the goal of fostering interdisciplinary discussions. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: - Computational models of human cognition and development - Theoretical models of human cognition and development - Robot therapy and assistance for people with disorders - Behavioral or neurocognitive studies on developmental disorders or typical development - Predictive coding - Tojisha-kenkyu (self-study of people with disorders) - Autism spectrum disorder Papers should be 2-4 pages incl. references, following the template of the main conference (pdf, IEE two-column format: http://icdl-epirob2018.ogata-lab.jp/submission/) and submitted via EasyChair: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=udd18 All accepted papers will be presented during the poster session and in spotlight talks. Submission deadline: August 13, 2018 Notification of acceptance: August 27, 2018 Workshop day: September 17, 2018 (full day) We are looking forward to seeing you at the workshop! For more information and updates please visit our workshop website: http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/icdlepirob2018_workshop/ Organizers: Anja Philippsen and Yukie Nagai, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Osaka, Japan -- Anja Philippsen, M.Sc. Researcher, Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Osaka, Japan http://developmental-robotics.jp/en/members/anja_philippsen/

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ESI SyNC Conference 2018 - Integrative Mechanisms of Cognitive Neuroscience
by André Castro July 11, 2018

July 11, 2018

Dear all, we are pleased to announce the 2018 edition of the ESI Systems Neuroscience Conference (ESI SyNC) on the topic of “Integrative Mechanisms of Cognitive Neuroscience" organized by the [Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society](http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/esi-frankfurt/) in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. The conference will begin in the morning of 30 August and end in the evening of 31 August 2018. Our confirmed invited speakers are the following: - David Melcher (University of Trento, Italy) -- "Temporal rhythms of visual perception" - Dimitri Kullmann (UCL, UK) -- "Hippocampal gamma oscillations: dynamical properties and closed-loop manipulation" - Matteo Carandini (UCL, UK) -- "Local and global neural correlates of vision, action, and reward" - Biyu He (NYU, US) -- tba - Melanie Wilke (DPZ, Germany) -- tba - Wim Vanduffel (KU Leuven, Belgium) -- "Optogenetic interrogation of the attention network in primates" - Anitha Pasupathy (University of Washington, US) -- "Encoding things and stuff: multiplexed form and texture signals in primate V4" - Floris de Lange (Radboud University, Netherlands) -- "How do prior expectations influence sensory computations?" - Hannah Monyer (Heidelberg University, Germany) -- tba - James Bisley (UCLA, US) -- tba This year we have the pleasure to announce as our special guest the choreographer Ildikó Tóth! The registration deadline: 15 August 2018. Please see our [website](http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/esisync-home/) for more details and updates on the programme. Organising Committee: Wolf Singer Pascal Fries André Castro Tommaso Tosato Ana Broggini Miriam Mueller Renata Vajda

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PhD Scholarships in Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne
by Uwe Aickelin July 11, 2018

July 11, 2018

I am seeking expressions of interest for PhD scholarships in the School of Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Optimisation and Datamining. Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the leading universities in the world, holding the number 1 spot in Australia. The School of Computing and Information Systems is an international research leader in computer science and information systems. In this discipline, the School was ranked number 1 in Australia and 14th in the world in the 2018 QS World University Ranking exercise. These scholarships include a tax-free living allowance of $30,600 per year (2019 rate) for up to 3.5 years. There is potential for the applicants to earn additional money through assistance in undergraduate teaching, and top-up scholarship options are also available. These scholarships are available to applicants of any nationality, who will also be exempt from the full tuition fee costs for the duration of candidature. See this link for more information on the scholarship: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/graduate-research-scholarships I am looking for candidates in the top 5% of their graduating cohort, or with an overall result in the top echelon for their degree. e.g. H1 (80-100%), High Distinction, A, 3.5 out of 4 GPA etc. Students should have completed a master’s degree that included a research project/thesis that accounts for at least 25% of one year's work in a relevant discipline. Please see these pages for further details regarding entry requirements: http://www.eng.unimelb.edu.au/study/degrees/phd/entry-requirements#entry-re… To express your interest in these PhD Scholarships please send your CV including details of two referees, a full copy of your academic transcripts (Bachelor and Master) and a one-page cover letter which outlines your research skills, experience and why this PhD opportunity interests you to uwe.aickelin(a)unimelb.edu.au. Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview and given further instructions how to submit a formal application. Closing Dates for Expressions of Interest for 2019: 31 July 2018 Uwe Aickelin

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Post-doc at FIAS - Computational Modeling of Epilepsy: Conducting Interviews at CNS*2018
by Peter Jedlicka July 11, 2018

July 11, 2018

Dear Comp-Neuro community, I would like to inform you that a post-doc position will be available in 2019 in the context of Frankfurt's new Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER). The project focuses on better understanding circuit changes and neuroimmune interactions during the development of epilepsy and is jointly lead by Prof. Jochen Triesch and me. I am attending the CNS*2018 in Seattle (July 13-18). If you are interested, contact me by email and attach your CV so that we can meet for an in-person interview. Best, Peter Jedlicka P.S. If you are not attending CNS, you can send your applications (single pdf file including CV, list of publications, statement of research interests and names and email addresses of three references) to jedlicka(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de and triesch(a)fias.uni-frankfurt.de. The position will be based at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (https://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/en/) Frankfurt has a vibrant Neuroscience community and the successful candidates will work closely together with experimental labs. An ideal candidate will have obtained a PhD/Master Degree in Computational Neuroscience or closely related field and have a strong interest in applying their knowledge to problems of medical relevance. Prior experience with modeling spiking neural networks or compartmental modeling is highly desirable. Experience in modeling epilepsy, neural plasticity and neuro-immune interactions is a plus. -- Peter Jedlicka, MD, PhD Professorship for Computer-Based Modelling in the field of 3R Animal Protection Faculty of Medicine Justus-Liebig-University Rudolf-Buchheim-Str. 6 D-35392 Giessen Phone: ++49 (0)69 179 238 6269 Fax: ++49 (0)641 9941359 NeuroScience Center Clinical Neuroanatomy (Anatomy I) Goethe-University Theodor-Stern-Kai 7 D-60590 Frankfurt am Main Fax: ++49 (69) 6301 6425 Email: jedlicka(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de

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Fwd: Postdoctoral Research Associate- Neural Interfaces
by Alistair McEwan July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

Postdoctoral Research Associate- Neural Interfaces - Join an organisation that encourages progressive thinking - 2 year Full Time Fixed Term role with a possibility of extension. Located at Camperdown Campus - Remuneration package: $90K-96K p.a. base salary and competitive employer’s contribution to superannuation *School of Electrical and Information Engineering* *Faculty of Engineering & Information Technologies* *Reference No. 1201/0618F* *About the opportunity * Applications are invited for a *Postdoctoral Research Associate- Neural Interfaces* for long-term implantable therapy in cerebral palsy with Professors Alistair McEwan and Gregg Suaning in the Bioelectronics and Bionics research groups at the University of Sydney, Australia. The role is expected to undertake research and coordinate experimentation and performance testing of an implantable neural stimulator for the acquired brain injuries including cerebral palsy. In this project we will examine electrical stimulation as an established approach for the restoration of muscle movement, but with currently limited utility as a therapy. There are two primary causes for this: poor selectivity in the activation of desired muscles, that may result in unwanted contractions; and the co-activation of efferent (e.g. motor) and afferent (e.g. sensory) fibres. In this ex-vivo study we focus upon solving these two key issues so that electrical stimulation can become a viable therapy in the treatment of acquired brain injuries and in particular, cerebral palsy. Targeted stimulation or blocking of peripheral fibres that lead to rigidity and pain would alleviate these two major areas of unmet need in cerebral palsy. The project involves developing an ex-vivo model and collecting experimental evidence of nerve fibre selectivity for selective activation of targeted muscle groups, capacity to release hypertonic muscles and management of pain to lead to the design of an implantable device for the rehabilitation of people with cerebral palsy. We aim to achieve improved efficacy in selective activation of targeted muscle groups, provide the capacity to release hypertonic muscles and manage pain; and devise a new implantable device for the rehabilitation of people with cerebral palsy to manage muscle movement. We collaborate with labs at Harvard, Case Western, The University of Freiburg, and UCL. More information can be found here: http://sydney.edu.au/engineering/our-research/biomedical-engineering/ institute-of-biomedical-engineering-and-technology/biomedical-devices-and- instrumentation.html https://www.cerebralpalsy.org.au/sstposts/StoryId1522298671037 https://www.cerebralpalsy.org.au/sstposts/StoryId1528960251002 *About you* The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance in recruiting talent aligned to these values in the pursuit of research excellence. We are looking for a *Postdoctoral Research Associate- Neural Interfaces* with: - PhD in Biomedical engineering or a similar field such as bio-electronics, bio-physics or neuroscience. - An understanding of electronics, signal processing, materials, and neurostimulation techniques. - Interest in working with a multi-disciplinary team including physiotherapists, clinicians and families living with cerebral palsy Please refer to the Candidate Information Pack for further information. To be considered, it is essential that you upload a resume and address the online selection criteria. *About us* Cerebral Palsy is the most common childhood disability with life-long impact, no cure, uncertain origins and delayed diagnosis. We work with the Cerebral Palsy Alliance research foundation to develop technology for treatment, intervention, prevention and cure. We focus on opportunities for control of muscle groups, spasticity and sensory perception including pain. While people with spinal cord injury have been the target of motor prosthesis to date there are additional challenges to explore in cerebral palsy such as developmental differences and viable afferent pathways that may convey pain and other sensory signals. We see opportunities in both central and peripheral stimulation and monitoring. Our group has a background in impedance recordings which might be used as a novel monitoring tool or to optimise stimulation patterns. We also use electrical tissue properties to better identify pathological tissue and guide electrical stimulation, electroporation and heating in the management of electrical signaling pathways. The University of Sydney is ranked number 1 in the world for physical therapy, sports therapy and rehabilitation and consistently ranks first or second in Australia for Engineering, Science and Medicine. The University is situated in the vibrant international city of Sydney close to some of the world’s best beaches and natural environments. Since our inception 160 years ago, the University of Sydney has led the research and teaching to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to diversity and inclusion, and underpin our long-term strategy for growth. We’re Australias first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence. Across 9 campuses, we employ over 7600 academic and non-academic staff who support over 60,000 students. We are undergoing significant transformative change which brings opportunity for innovation, progressive thinking, breaking with convention, challenging the status quo, and improving the world around us. Specific enquiries can be directed to Professor Alistair McEwan at alistair.mcewan(a)sydney.edu.au For more information about the position, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Emmen Saeed, Recruitment Partner on emmen.saeed(a)sydney.edu.au . If you would like to learn more, please refer to the Candidate Information Pack for the position description and further details *Closing date: 11:30pm 5 August 2018 (Sydney time)* The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. Candidate Information Pack <https://sydney.nga.net.au/publicfiles/sydney/jobs/9B19927D-F815-451C-9D4D-A…> How to apply: - Start your application by clicking the "begin" button. - Login to an existing account <https://sydney.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm?event=jobs.gotoLogin&CurATC=EXT&CurB…> or reset your password <https://sydney.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm?event=reg.forgottenPassword&CurATC=E…> - Preview Application Form <https://sydney.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm?event=jobs.previewApplication&CurATC…> -- ALISTAIR MCEWAN | Ainsworth Chair of Technology and Innovation, Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation Coordinator, BMET Institute Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY School of Electrical and Information Engineering, J03 The University of Sydney | NSW | 2006 T +61 2 9351 7256 | F +61 2 9351 3847 E alistair.mcewan(a)sydney.edu.au | W sydney.edu.au CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments. Please think of our environment and only print this e-mail if necessary.

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Deadline extended to July 20: Symposium and summer school on the Logistics of Neuronal Function, Frankfurt, Germany
by Jochen Triesch July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

We invite applications from PhD students and post-docs to participate in a two-week summer course on the Logistics of Neuronal Function in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, from August 28 to September 7. Neurons face a variety of logistics challenges. They need to organize the production, transport, storage, and recycling of various molecules such as neurotransmitters, mRNA, and proteins to fill their extensive dendritic and axonal arbors. For example, most proteins have turnover rates of several days, which implies that neurons must organize the production and transport of vast numbers of proteins to maintain their structure and function. Due to their large size compared to other cells of the body, these problems are particularly severe for neurons. It is likely that evolution has driven neurons to find robust and efficient solutions to these challenges. So how do they organize production, transport, delivery, storage, and recycling processes and how are logistic failures related to nervous system disorders? This first workshop and summer school on the logistics of neuronal function bring together leading experimentalists, theoreticians, and method developers to exchange ideas on these fundamental questions. Organizers: Jochen Triesch, Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies Erin Schuman, MPI Brain Research, Frankfurt Tatjana Tchumatchenko, MPI Brain Research, Frankfurt Christian Tetzlaff, Georg-August University, Göttingen Confirmed Speakers of the Giersch International Symposium (August 28 - September 1): Maarten Altelaar, Utrecht, Netherlands Peter W. Baas, Drexel U., USA Upinder S. Bhalla, TIFR, India Long Cai, Caltech, USA Daniel Choquet, Bordeaux, France Guillaume Drion, Liege, Belgium Seth Grant, University of Edinburgh, UK Kristian Franze, U. of Cambridge, UK Lukas Kapitein, Utrecht, Netherlands Ken Kosik, UC Santa Barbara, USA Timothy O’Leary, Cambridge University, UK William W. Lytton, SUNY Downstate, USA Jeremy Niven, U. of Sussex, UK Marianne Renner, Institut du Fer a Moulin, France Erik De Schutter, OIST, Japan Antoine Triller, École Normale Superièure, France Noam Ziv, Technion, Israel Confirmed Giersch Summer School Lecturers (September 3 - 7): Eric Hosy, U Bordeaux, France Timothy O’Leary, Cambridge University, UK William W. Lytton, SUNY Downstate, USA Marianne Renner, Institut du Fer a Moulin, France Christian Tetzlaff, U. Göttingen, Germany Jochen Triesch, FIAS, Germany Special Public Talk by: Nobel Laureate Edvard Moser The third "Giersch International Symposium", will take place at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies. The conference series, funded by STIFTUNG GIERSCH gives young scientists the opportunity to learn from well known, exceptional researchers and to expand their networks. Accommodation and meals are provided free of charge. To apply visit: https://indico.fias.uni-frankfurt.de/event/11/overview and see the instructions there. Required materials include: CV, letter of recommendation from supervisor, poster abstract, and short text specifying the reason for participation. Application Deadline: July 20 Contact: gis2018(a)fias.uni-frankfurt.de -- 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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PhD position in Neuroscience at the Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Belgium
by Georgios A. Keliris July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

Postdoc position in Neuroscience at the Bio-Imaging Lab, University of Antwerp, Belgium The Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary is seeking to fill a full-time (100%) vacancy (m/f) in the Department of Biomedical Sciences (Bio-Imaging Lab) under the supervision of Prof. Georgios A. Keliris Post-doc position investigating the role of neuromodulation in learning and memory The goal of the project is to understand the neural mechanisms modulating learning and memory in rats. A multimodal approach and combination of state-of-the-art methods (MRI-imaging, electrophysiology, optogenetics and pharmacogenetics) will be used to uncover both the global network as well as specific cellular mechanisms. This approach will also be employed in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Profile and requirements · You hold a PhD degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, or related fields. · You can submit outstanding academic results. · Foreign candidates are encouraged to apply. · Your academic qualities comply with the requirements stipulated in the university’s policy <https://www.uantwerp.be/en/about-uantwerp/mission-vision/three-core-tasks/r…>. · You are quality-oriented, conscientious, creative and cooperative. · You are fluent in English and have strong communication skills, both in writing and oral presentations · You are a team player · Strong background in one or more of: imaging, computational neuroscience, mathematics, programming (e.g. Matlab/Python/C/R/…) will be considered as a bonus We offer · a post-doctoral position for a period of one year, with the possibility of renewal after positive evaluation · the start date is as soon as possible · a dynamic and stimulating work environment. How to apply? · Applications should be submitted to Georgios.Keliris(a)uantwerpen.be <mailto:Georgios.Keliris@uantwerpen.be> and should include a copy of your CV and a cover letter. Please use the following string in the subject: NMPDBILGAK18 · A pre-selection will be made from amongst the submitted applications. · More information about the application and the position can be obtained from Prof. Georgios A. Keliris by email:georgios.keliris@uantwerpen.be <mailto:georgios.keliris@uantwerpen.be> or tel.: +32 3 265 2772 The University of Antwerp is a family friendly organization, with a focus on equal opportunities and diversity. Our HR-policy for researchers was awarded by the European Commission with the quality label 'HR Excellence in research'. Prof. Dr. Georgios A. Keliris FBD/Biomedical Sciences Campus Drei Eiken – D.UC. 107 Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wirijk, BE Georgios.Keliris(a)uantwerpen.be <mailto:Georgios.Keliris@uantwerpen.be> P +32 3 265 27 72 <https://twitter.com/UAntwerpen> <https://www.facebook.com/UAntwerp> <https://plus.google.com/+UantwerpenBe/posts> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/university-of-antwerp>

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TENURE TRACK POSITION IN DATA SCIENCE AT ICTP - TRIESTE
by Matteo Marsili July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

TENURE TRACK POSITION IN DATA SCIENCE AT ICTP ICTP is seeking applicants for a new tenuree track position in theoretical computer science and data science. The successful applicant will undertake front-line research in the fields related to theoretical computer science and data science (e.g. machine learning and high dimensional statistics, information and coding theory, probabilistic models, combinatorial optimization and computational complexity, rigorous mathematical approaches and statistical physics approaches in computer science, theory of algorithms and high performance computing). He's also expected to assist in developing projects on data science in collaboration with ICTS and ICTP scientific groups. Applicants should have a documented record of excellence in research in theoretical computer science and data science, with at least two years of scientific research experience. For further details please see http://users.ictp.it/general/vn_QLS_DataScience.pdf <http://users.ictp.it/general/vn_QLS_DataScience.pdf> ICTP, based in Trieste, Italy, provides a top class multi-disciplinary research environment in theoretical sciences, with cutting edge research, education and training, and it has been a driving force behind global efforts for the advancement of science in the developing world. Matteo Marsili Senior Research Scientist, Abdus Salam ICTP, Strada Costiera 11, 34014, Trieste Ph: +390402240461, fax: +3904022407461, email: marsili(a)ictp.it

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Workshop on High Performance Computing Resources for Neuroscience
by Ted Carnevale July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

High Performance Computing Resources for Parallel Simulations and Data Analysis: NSG and HPAC Saturday, Nov. 3 from 9 AM to noon at downtown San Diego location. SUMMARY This workshop is intended for neuroscientists who need to use high performance computing (HPC) resources for computationally intensive tasks such as large modeling projects or analysis of neuroimaging data. It will examine resources offered by the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG https://www.nsgportal.org/) and The Human Brain Project's High Performance Analytics and Computing Platform (HPAC https://hbp-hpc-platform.fz-juelich.de/) The workshop will combine hands-on instruction on how to use NSG with didactic presentations by NSG and HPAC developers and discussions with experienced users of these resources. The registration deadline for this workshop is Friday Oct. 12, but you should sign up early because space is limited. See https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2018/nsg2018.html for more information and a link to the registration form. OVERVIEW OF NSG AND HPAC NSG eliminates most administrative and technical barriers, providing free CPU time to users, and easy access to widely used software that currently includes BluePyOpt, Brian, CARLsim, DynaSim, EEGLAB, Freesurfer, GENESIS, Human Neocortical Neuroserver (HNN), Large Scale Neural Modeling Simulator (LSNM), MATLAB, MOOSE, NEST, NetPyNE, NEURON, Octave, PyNN, Python, R, TensorFlow, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. NSG's web-based interface simplifies the tasks of uploading models or data, specifying job parameters, monitoring job status, and storing and retrieving output data. HPAC provides extensive HPC support for the HBP community. This includes developing and providing the hardware and software infrastructure required for large scale simulations, data management and analysis, visualization, and managing the complex workflows involved in performing these tasks.

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NEURON course at SFN 2018 meeting
by Ted Carnevale July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

Using NEURON to Model Cells and Networks Friday, Nov. 2 from 9 AM to 5 PM at a downtown San Diego location. This course provides a practical introduction to building and using models of neurons and networks with NEURON. Covered topics include basic concepts, workflow for building and using models, speeding up simulations with parallel hardware from multicore personal computers to massively parallel supercomputers, using Python with NEURON, and modeling reaction-diffusion with the RxD class. The registration deadline for this course is Friday Oct. 12, but you should sign up early because space is limited. See https://neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/sd2018/sd2018.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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Conducting Interviews at CNS*2018 - Post-docs @ EPFL, Switzerland
by Eilif Muller July 9, 2018

July 9, 2018

Dear Comp-Neuro community, I wish to inform you of openings for fully funded post-doctoral positions in "Biophysical Neuron Modeling and Dendritic Computation", and in "Simulation Neuroscience" (see details below), at the EPFL Blue Brain Project, Biotech Campus, Geneva, Switzerland. I will be at the CNS*2018 in Seattle, July 13-18. I warmly encourage interested candidates who will be there to get in touch with me by email (incl. CV) to arrange for an in-person interview. For those not going to CNS this year, applications by email are also highly encouraged (see below). Best regards, Eilif ------------- Dr. Eilif Muller Section Manager - Simulation Neuroscience - Cells & Circuits EPFL - Blue Brain Project Biotech Campus Chemin des Mines 9 1202 Geneva Switzerland Tel: +41 21 693 0698 Fax: +41 21 693 5350 www: http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page-77926-en.html www: http://neuralensemble.org/people/eilifmuller ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The EPFL Blue Brain Project (BBP), located on the Campus Biotech in Geneva, Switzerland, applies advanced data-driven simulations, neuroinformatics, data analytics, and HPC-based approaches to the challenge of understanding the structure and function of the mammalian brain in health and disease. Within the Cells & Circuits Section of the BBP, we are looking to fill the following post-doc positions: *** Post-doctoral Researcher in Simulation Neuroscience *** Postition Shortname: "PostDoc-SimNeuro" We are looking for exceptional candidates to join a diverse and highly motivated multi-disciplinary team working at the interface of neuroscience, physics and computer science. Do you have a PhD in neuroscience, computational neuroscience, computer science, physics or related field, and experience in scientific computing with python or the NEURON simulation environment? Are you a constructive team player with excellent writing and communication skills who thrives in collaborative environments? Then we would like to hear from you! Several research topics across the scales of neuroscience (subcellular molecular processes, ion channels, synapses, neurons, and circuits) in systems such as mammalian neocortex, thalamus, and hippocampus are possible based on the expertise and interests of the candidate. *** Post-doctoral Researcher in Biophysical Neuron Modeling and Dendritic Integration *** Postition Shortname: "PostDoc-NeuronModeling" The primary objective for this position is to strengthen on-going biophysical neuron modeling and validation efforts in the project, by undertaking original scientific research to characterize the role of intrinsic cellular mechanisms in computation and dynamics at the dendritic, neuronal and network level. Candidates are expected to supervise computational neuroscience students, and to develop an intimate knowledge of the employed software in order to interface with engineering teams. The position is in close collaboration with electrophysiology labs, and modeling will go hand in hand with available and newly acquired experimental data. Your profile : * PhD in neuroscience, computational neuroscience, physics or related field * Expert in NEURON and multi-compartment conductance-based modeling as demonstrated by strong publication record * Expert in scientific computing (python, scipy, numpy, hdf5, gsl, Linux, etc.) * Knowledge of whole cell electrophysiology, ion channel experiments * Experience in automated neuron model optimization techniques * Experience in other programming languages (C++), parallel computing and software development (unit testing, continuous integration, version control, debugging and documentation) is of advantage * Experience in supervision of students and teaching * Strong team player and fluent English in speech and writing We offer: * An internationally visible project in simulation-based research in neuroscience having a leading role in the EU FET flagship “Human Brain Project” * A young, dynamic, inter-disciplinary, and international working environment * Very competitive salary Application deadlines: Until positions are filled Term of employment: Fixed-term (CDD) Work rate: 100% Duration: 1 year (renewable) Contact: Please get in touch with me directly by email to arrange an interview at CNS*2018. Otherwise, applicants should submit a cover letter and a detailed CV in PDF format only, with filenames “<surname>_<position-shortname>_CoverLetter” and “<surname>_<positon-shortname>_CV” electronically to jobs.bbp(a)epfl.ch Please refer to the position title in the “subject” field.

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Job opening for a Research Associate in computational auditory neuroscience at Imperial College London
by Reichenbach, Johann D T July 9, 2018

July 9, 2018

Dear all, I am pleased to announce the opening for a Research Associate in in computational auditory neuroscience in my group at the Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London. The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary setting combining computational and experimental methods in human auditory neuroscience. In particular, the project will explore how complex transcranial current stimulation can help to better perceive speech in noise. Full details including information for how to apply is here: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/description/ENG00430/research-assistantasso… Best, Tobias ------------------------------------------- Tobias Reichenbach Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington Campus SW7 2AZ London, UK http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/reichenbach/

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Postdoc positions in computational neuroscience at NYU-Shanghai
by Sukbin Lim July 9, 2018

July 9, 2018

Two postdoctoral positions are available in Sukbin Lim's lab at NYU-Shanghai as part of NYU’s global network and the NYU-ECNU Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science (https://shanghai.nyu.edu/research/brain) The overarching goal of the lab is to understand network interactions and dynamics for learning and memory. We have thrived to provide a mechanistic understanding of local circuits and interactions among local circuits and to develop tools to reverse-engineer the mechanism. More information on the research can be found at http://shanghai.nyu.edu/research/brain/faculty/Sukbin-Lim. Environment: Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science at NYU-Shanghai is a multidisciplinary and collaborative research environment. Candidates will be encouraged to collaborate with systems and computational neuroscience labs, computer and data science groups at NYU-Shanghai and NYU. The initial appointment is for one year, renewable up to 3 years subject to progress. Globally competitive compensations will be provided. To Apply: Qualified applicants are expected to hold a Ph.D. by the start date of the position in computational and theoretical neuroscience, or related discipline with strong quantitative training in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Sciences, and Engineering. Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB or C/C++) and experience in modeling networks/complex systems will be valued. Knowledge of Neuroscience would be a plus. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. To be considered, please send a curriculum vitae, short research statement and the names and contact information of two references to *sukbin.lim(a)nyu.edu <xinying.cai(a)nyu.edu>*. Also, I can meet with candidates at CNS 2018 meeting in Seattle or Bernstein conference in Berlin.

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CFP- ACM-THRI Special Issue on Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition (Extended Deadline)
by Amir Aly July 6, 2018

July 6, 2018

*ACM Transactions on Human-Robot Interaction (T-HRI) * CALL FOR PAPERS *(Extended Deadline)* **Apologies for cross posting ** We are happy to call for papers for the journal special issue: *"Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition"* *Webpage: **https://thri.acm.org/CFP-RLHRC.cfm <https://thri.acm.org/CFP-RLHRC.cfm> * <http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/hai2017_workshop/> *I. Aim and Scope *Intelligent robots are rapidly moving to the center of human environment; they collaborate with human users in different applications that require high-level cognitive functions so as to allow them to understand and learn from human behavior within different Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) contexts. To this end, a stubborn challenge that attracts much attention in artificial intelligence is representation learning, which refers to learning representations of data so as to efficiently extract relevant features for probabilistic, nonprobabilistic, or connectionist classifiers. This active area of research spans different fields and applications including speech recognition, object recognition, emotion recognition, natural language processing, language emergence and development, in addition to mirroring different human cognitive processes through appropriate computational modeling. Learning constitutes a basic operation in the human cognitive system and developmental process, where perceptual information enhances the ability of the sensory system to respond to external stimuli through interaction with the environment. This learning process depends on the optimality of features (representations of data), which allows humans to make sense of everything they feel, hear, touch, and see in the environment. Using intelligent robots could open the door to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of representation learning and its associated cognitive processes so as to take a closer step towards making robots able to better collaborate with human users in space. This special issue aims to shed light on cutting edge lines of interdisciplinary research in artificial intelligence, cognitive science, neuroscience, cognitive robotics, and human-robot interaction, focusing on representation learning with the objective of creating natural and intelligent interaction between humans and robots. Recent advances and future research lines in representation learning will be discussed in detail in this journal special issue. *II. Potential Topics* Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to: - Language learning, embodiment, and social intelligence - Human symbol system and symbol emergence in robotics - Computational modeling for high-level human cognitive functions - Predictive learning from sensorimotor information - Multimodal interaction and concept formulation - Language and action development - Learning, reasoning, and adaptation in collaborative human-robot tasks - Affordance learning - Cross-situational learning - Learning by demonstration and imitation - Language and grammar induction in robots *III. Submission* ACM Transactions on Human-Robot Interaction is a peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary, open-access journal using an online submission and manuscript tracking system. To submit your paper, please: - Go to https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/thri and login or follow the "Create an account" link to register. - After logging in, click the "Author" tab. - Follow the instructions to "Start New Submission". - Choose the submission category “*SI: Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition*”. *IV. Timline* - Deadline for paper submission: *August 1*, 2018 - First notification for authors: September 15, 2018 - Deadline for revised papers submission: November 15, 2018 - Final notification for authors: January 15, 2019 - Deadline for submission of camera-ready manuscripts: March 1, 2019 - Expected publication date: May 2019 *V. Guest editors* Takato Horii, The University of Electro-Communications, Japan ( takato(a)uec.ac.jp) Dr. Amir Aly, Ritsumeikan University, Japan (amir.aly(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp) Dr. Yukie Nagai, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Japan (yukie(a)nict.go.jp) Prof. Takayuki Nagai, The University of Electro-Communications, Japan ( nagai(a)ee.uet.at.jp) --------------------- *Amir Aly, Ph.D.* Senior Researcher Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

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[meetings] Call for participation: Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School (BCBT2018)
by Vasiliki Vouloutsi July 5, 2018

July 5, 2018

Dear colleagues, Please find below information regarding the Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology summerschool. ------------------------------------------ CALL FOR PARTICIPATION ------------------------------------------ Join us for the annual*"Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology summer school -BCBT2018*" to be held 3-14September2018in Barcelona, Spain. The summer school has been part of a series of events organized by the European coordination action Convergent Science Network of Biomimetics and Neurotechnology (_http://csnetwork.eu/ <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__csnetwork.eu_&d=DwMFaQ&…>_). For the 2018 edition of the BCBT summer school, we are counting on thesupport of the Human Brain Project (*HBP*,**humanbrainproject.eu/en),the Institute of Bioengineeringof Catalonia (*IBEC*,ibecbarcelona.eu <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__ibecbarcelona.eu_&d=DwM…>) and the*UPC Campus**Besòs*(eebe.upc.edu/ca/lescola <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__eebe.upc.edu_ca_lescola…>). This is the 11th edition ofBCBT, which has run with great success in previous years thanks to an excellent line-up of outstanding speakersincluding Nobel Laureate winner Edvard Moser and luminaries in the fields of neurosciences, psychology, biology, robotics and AI, such as M. Arbib, S. Grilner, G. Rizzolatti, among many. TheBCBTlectures are available onlineat theConvergentScienceNetwork_lectures youtube channel <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_user_C…>with theBCBTpodcast interviewswith many of theBCBTspeakers.http://csnetwork.eu/talks/podcast <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__csnetwork.eu_talks_podc…> BCBTcaters to students and researchers involved in projects that are in the ambit of “BIO-ICT convergence”, "Brain Inspired ICT", “Cognitive systems-robotics”, “Cognitive and neural systems”, “Foundations of social cognition”. TheBCBTschool promotes a shared systems-level understanding of the functional architecture of the brain and its possible emulation in artificial systems. BCBTwill offer up to 30 student slots for the practical workshops, while as many researchers can register to attend the presentations and discussion sessions as they are interested. The atmosphere of theBCBTsummer school is informal with the goal to stimulate in-depth discussion. There are 2 or 3 presentations in the morning, with the afternoons reserved for tutorials and projects for student participantsand senior scientists with road-mapping workshops and further discussion. For the2018edition, we plan a*1^st week*of the school addressing*System level understanding of the brain and its emulation in advanced technology.*The*2^nd week*will include presentations aimed at the investigation of*Learning and Memory, Brain Function and Behavior**.*Friday14 is reserved for the presentation of the student projects to which everybody is invited. *Application deadline: 20 July2018* BCBTis organized by: Tony Prescott, Sheffield University - UK, Paul Verschure. ICREA and IBEC Barcelona, ES . - Anna Mura, IBEC Barcelona, ES. In collaboration with HBP Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School (BCBT2018) Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia, Barcelona, UPC, Spain. 3-14 September 2018 specs.ibecbarcelona.eu/bcbt2018 -- Vicky Vouloutsi, PhD Postdoc Researcher at the laboratory for Synthetic Perceptive, Emotive and Cognitive Systems (SPECS <http://specs-lab.com/>) mail: vvouloutsi(a)ibecbarcelona.eu <mailto:vvouloutsi@ibecbarcelona.eu> LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-vouloutsi-28496133/> researchgate <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Vasiliki_Vouloutsi>

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Conducting Interviews at FENS 2018 in Berlin for Neural Engineer / Neuroscientist Opening
by Zanos, Theodoros July 5, 2018

July 5, 2018

We will be at FENS 2018 in Berlin conducting interviews from the 7th to the 12th of July - if interested email tzanos(a)northwell.edu<mailto:tzanos@northwell.edu> with your CV/resume to schedule an interview. Associate Engineer (MS Level) / Postdoctoral Fellow / Neural Engineer The Neural Decoding and Data Analytics Lab at the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is currently recruiting for a Neural Engineer / Neuroscientist (multiple levels). The lab focuses on neural recordings and data analysis methods to gain insights into decoding and encoding mechanisms of the brain and peripheral nerves to and from stimuli, actions and other physiological functions. The lab utilizes a variety of techniques from signal processing, machine learning, optimization, neurophysiology and bioelectronic systems for closed-loop neural recording and stimulation, both in health and in disease models. The ultimate goal is to develop neuromodulation therapies that will observe the state of the organism and the organ system that is targeted, to deliver individualized treatment of diseases in real-time. The successful candidate will develop computational tools, take part in neurophysiology experiments and collect, organize and analyze data, collaborate with other research staff and publish and present data in a timely manner. They will also work collaboratively with other investigators to facilitate their scientific research and training. Furthermore, they will participate in various types of institute and community activities and may apply for grant funding and/or patents as appropriate. Job Responsibilities Include: Develops computational tools for neuroscience research. Perform neurophysiology experiments Performs bioelectronic medicine research. Collaborates with other research staff. Responsible for the planning, collection, organization, analysis and interpretation of research data related to one or more projects Job Type: Full-time Qualifications Associate Engineer (MS Level) - Masters in Engineering, Computer Science or Statistics required Postdoctoral Fellow - Doctorate degree in Engineering, Computer Science or Statistics (Ph.D) required Neural Engineer - Masters in Engineering, Computer Science or Statistics + 3 years of experience required, Doctorate degree preferred Authored/co-authored research papers and/or scientific abstracts, required Experience with various signal processing and machine learning methods, required Strong programming skills of Matlab, required, Python, C++, preferred Research experience in neurophysiology/neuroscience/animal surgery, preferred Knowledge of data analysis software (e.g. Matlab), preferred Theodoros Zanos, PhD Assistant Professor Head, Neural Decoding and Data Analytics Lab Center for Bioelectronic Medicine, Room 1257 The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine 350 Community Drive Manhasset, NY 11030 Tel: (516) 562-0484 Cell: (646) 943-3440 Email: tzanos(a)northwell.edu<mailto:tzanos@northwell.edu> Northwell Health Visit us at Northwell.edu<http://northwell.edu/> [nwh_fi_sm_vrt_pos_rgb 35perc] The information contained in this electronic e-mail transmission and any attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom or to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this communication is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this communication and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by telephone and electronic mail, and delete the original communication and any attachment from any computer, server or other electronic recording or storage device or medium. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney-client, physician-patient or other privilege.

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“Self-repairing Hardware Paradigms based on Astrocyte-neuron Models” workshop York, UK, 3-5th September 2018
by David Halliday July 5, 2018

July 5, 2018

“Self-repairing Hardware Paradigms based on Astrocyte-neuron Models” is an informal workshop which will be held in the historic city of York from the 3 rd to the 5th of September 2018. The workshop aims to highlight and discuss emerging trends and future directions in the fields of bio-inspired fault tolerant systems, particularly self-repairing spiking neural networks, with applications to autonomous robotic systems (and beyond). The workshop will feature invited position papers from world-leading researchers and industrialists. The workshop website, which includes information on submission and an up-to-date list of invited speakers can be found at https://www.york.ac.uk/spanner-workshop We are currently soliciting abstracts from members of the community who are interested in presenting at this workshop. Abstracts should be no longer than three page of A4 in standard IEEE conference format, and should focus upon the potential for future developments within the field of bio-inspired fault tolerant systems. We welcome contributions that span topics from biological modelling through to hardware and applications. Topics include (but are not restricted to): - Astrocyte-neuron interactions and modelling - Spiking neural networks – models, algorithms and hardware implementations - Training, learning and optimisation in spiking neural networks - Biological models for fault tolerant systems - Implementation of bio-inspired and fault tolerant systems on FPGA - Hardware optimisations for bio-inspired systems - Spiking neural network and bio-inspired controllers for autonomous robotics - Autonomous swarm robotic systems - Fault tolerance in robotic systems - Innovative design techniques for bio-inspired and fault tolerant systems The deadline for submissions is Tuesday 31st July 2018. Please address any questions and submissions to spanner-workshop(a)york.ac.uk Attending the Workshop We welcome attendees from all areas of the bio-inspired and robotics communities. Thanks to funding from the EPSRC, registration is free. We have accommodation for a limited number of places, priority will be given to authors of accepted contributions. We also have a number of student bursaries available, which will provide free accommodation and contribute towards the travel costs of registered PhD students. If you would like to attend, please see the website at https://www.york.ac.uk/spanner-workshop

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Postdoctoral position on decision neuroscience at Aarhus University and University College London
by Hrvoje Stojic July 5, 2018

July 5, 2018

Postdoctoral position on decision neuroscience at Aarhus University and University College London The Department of Management at Aarhus University and University College London, invites applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position offering applicants an exciting opportunity to join a new research project on the role of the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine system in learning and decision making. Application deadline: 15th of July 2018. Starting date: 1st of October 2018 or subject to mutual agreement. This project is funded by Lundbeckfonden (http://www.lundbeckfonden.com) and aims to advance our understanding of the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system and neural gain by (i) developing new and inexpensive methods for indexing LC-NE activity in learning and decision making tasks using pupil size (pupillometry) and eye movements, (ii) cross-validate the new method with magnetoencephalography (MEG) signatures of neural gain, and (iii) using these methods to investigate the role of the LC-NE system in balancing the exploration and exploitation in reinforcement learning. Overall, the project aims to advance our understanding of how decision makers balance exploration and exploitation and how they attend to and learn from the environment in doing so. The exploration-exploitation trade-off is relevant in a wide range of situations, for instance, in managerial decision making concerning new investments or in consumer decision making between known and unfamiliar products. Our aim is to build a better understanding of the cognitive processes behind these real world decision problems. The project is a joint collaboration between Jacob L. Orquin at Aarhus University and Ray Dolan at the Max Planck UCL Centre, University College London (UCL) (https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en) The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the overall objectives of the project by being involved in all phases of the project, including formulating research questions, experimental designs, analyses, and writing articles. The position is research-oriented, but may involve teaching assignments depending on the interests of the candidate. The candidate will be based at Aarhus University, but will receive an Honorary contract at University College London as parts of the project will be carried out at the Max Planck UCL Centre and Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging at UCL. The candidate will be affiliated at Aarhus University and the Max Planck UCL Centre, London. It is therefore a requirement that the candidate is willing to be in London for a certain period of the project. Candidates must hold a PhD relevant to the academic areas of the project and have experience with data analysis and programming of experiments in at least one programming language such as R, Python, or Matlab. Experience with one or more of the following research areas is desirable: i) eye tracking and pupillometry ii) neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI or MEG iii) computational modeling such as reinforcement learning iv) basic or applied decision making theory. For further information about the position and the department, please contact Jacob L. Orquin, Tel.: +45 22178621, Email: jalo(a)mgmt.au.dk. See the job posting here: http://www.au.dk/om/stillinger/videnskabelige-stillinger/stillinger/Vacancy… Apply online here: https://ssl1.peoplexs.com/Peoplexs22/CandidatesPortalNoLogin/ApplicationFor…

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EPSRC funded Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience
by James Rankin July 4, 2018

July 4, 2018

*Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience* Location: College of Engineering, Mathematics, Physical Sciences at the University of Exeter (Streatham Campus) Job reference: P62935 Application closing date: *29/07/2018* Interview date: *10/08/2018* Salary From £34,520 on Grade F, dependent on knowledge, skills and experience This new full-time post is available from *1st October 2018* on a fixed term contract basis for *2 years*. The College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to participate in the project Neural oscillator network modelling of auditory stream segregation. This EPSRC funded post is available from 01/10/2018 for 2 years. The successful candidate will join the Systems Biomedicine and Dynamical Systems research groups housed in the recently launched GBP 50m Living Systems Institute at the University of Exeter. These groups house over 50 researchers applying mathematical and computation approaches to study problems in neuroscience, biology and healthcare. The project will benefit from input from colleagues with expertise in neural networks, bifurcation theory, coupled oscillators and numerical methods. The Post: The project will involve developing mathematical and computational models to deepen our understanding of auditory stream segregation. This is a fundamental process in the auditory system that allows us to separate out and focus on distinct sound streams (e.g. voices) in a dynamic noisy environment. This process involves competition in order to resolve different interpretations of a given environment (e.g. different groupings of objects). Many aspects of this process are still not well understood, such as where in the brain segregation of streams is achieved, how the streams are encoded and the driving neural mechanisms. This project will develop a biologically motivated model inspired by a broad cross section of modelling and experimental literature (from anatomical, neurophysiological, brain imaging and behavioural experiments). The models developed will be based on networks of coupled neural oscillators. Neural oscillations are understood to be vital for the encoding of temporal information in auditory streaming. Dynamical systems theory including bifurcation analysis and numerical methods will provide the necessary tools to understand the dynamics of the models developed. About you: - Candidates with quantitative backgrounds (Mathematics, Physics, Engineering) and from Neuroscience programmes with a strong computational component are encouraged to apply. - Applicants will possess a PhD or equivalent in one of these areas or a related field. T - You will also be able to work collaboratively and supervise the work of others. - Programming experience in a high-level language (e.g. Matlab, Python, C/C++) is a must and knowledge of dynamical systems theory is a plus. - Experience working on interdisciplinary projects involving the application of mathematical and computational tools to problems in Biology or Neuroscience will be viewed favourably. The University offers some fantastic benefits including 41 days leave per year, options for flexible working, numerous discounts at leading retailers, onsite gym, cycle to work scheme, sector leading policies around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a new Fertility Treatment Policy; and a stunning campus environment in the heart of Exeter. If you are not currently in Exeter please have a look at our website for some further information on what a beautiful part of the country we are based in. *For further information, please contact Dr James Rankin, email j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk <j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk>* https://jobs.exeter.ac.uk/hrpr_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC1 07GF.open?VACANCY_ID=258266M3V7&WVID=3817591jNg http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/jar226 The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer. We are officially recognised as a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.

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Research Associate /Senior Research Associate positions
by Jeffrey Bowers July 4, 2018

July 4, 2018

Research Associate /Senior Research Associate positions University of Bristol Salary: £32,548 to £41,212 per annum Deadline: 20th August 2018 We are seeking to appoint talented computational modelers to join an ERC-funded project entitled “Generalisation in Mind and Machine”. The project explores how well neural networks support human-like generalisation across a range of tasks. Two postdoctoral fellows and two PhD students are working on project, and we are looking to hire two more persons with PhDs (or potentially BSc) in computer science or cognitive psychology (or a related field) with experience working with neural networks. In contrast with the large community of researchers focused on improving the performance of deep networks for applied reasons, the goal of this project is to explore what neural networks tell us about how the brain works. More specifically, the team will be working on questions of generalisation in the domains of object identification, word identification, short-term memory, and games, amongst other areas. A core issue is whether networks need to be include symbolic computations to succeed on some forms of generalisation. For overview of some of the issues we are exploring in the project see: Bowers, J. S. (2017). Parallel Distributed Processing Theory in the Age of Deep Networks. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 12, 950-961. For more details regarding the project see our ERC website: http://mindandmachine.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/ This post is available from Oct 1st 2018 (but flexible about start date) and currently has funding secured until Oct 1st 2021. To apply go to: https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BKR397/erc-research-associate-senior-research-as… If you have any questions, please get in touch with Jeff Bowers at: j.bowers(a)bristol.ac.uk<mailto:j.bowers@bristol.ac.uk> Jeff Bowers

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Post-doc in Neurophysiology of Attention at UCLA
by Bisley, James July 3, 2018

July 3, 2018

Apologies for cross-posting We invite applications for a fully funded post-doc position studying the neurophysiology of attention. The work will include recording from &/or the reversible inactivation of cortical areas MT, LIP and FEF while animals perform a visual search task utilizing moving dot patterns. For more information about the sort of work done in the lab, check out our publications at http://www.bri.ucla.edu/people/james-w-bisley-phd. Applicants should have a strong background in systems neurophysiology, behavioral training or computational neuroscience and be comfortable working independently on all aspects of the project. Previous experience with NHP recording and data analysis is desirable. Candidates should hold a PhD in neuroscience, psychology or a related discipline. The position is initially for 12 months with the possibility of renewal. Compensation will be commensurate with relevant experience. Candidates should send a CV, a brief statement of research experience and interests, expected date of availability, and the contact information for two references to James Bisley (jbisley(a)mednet.ucla.edu<mailto:jbisley@mednet.ucla.edu>). Cheers, James ________________________________ UCLA HEALTH SCIENCES IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete this message from your computer.

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