- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

[jobs] Start-up in Berlin seeks biologists for multiple open positions (senior and junior)
by Arnab Chakrabarty March 26, 2018

March 26, 2018

Start-up in Berlin seeks biologists for multiple open positions (senior and junior) neuraltrain GmbH is a newly founded digital health start-up based in Berlin developing innovative, digital mental health solutions. We are looking for biologist(s)/neuroscientist(s) for one of the current projects on a digital therapy solution in depression and affective disorders. Start dates are as soon as possible. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Design, conduct, analyse and present experimental research from the project * In-depth literature review and meta-analyses; in particular, brain oscillations, psychophysics, perceptual learning, depression, internet-based therapy interventions are topics of relevance * Identification and establishment of scientific collaboration with academic partners * Writing reports, grants, publications in English WE DESIRE: * PhD in Neurosciences/ Psychology/ Biology; fresh graduates and post-docs are particularly encouraged to apply * Expertise in the following areas: neuronal oscillations, affective sciences, psychophysics, perceptual learning, EEG, EMG, skin conductance experiments and Depression. * Programming and some app development experience is a strong plus * Experience as an independent researcher in any of the above areas * Knowledge of Python and/or willingness to learn, strong statistical and analytical skills * Entrepreneurial mentality and an ownership/stakeholder attitude to get things done * Knowledge of 'key opinion leaders' in depression and psychiatry, psychology, brain oscillations is a plus You do not have to match all the criteria to apply. We will assess your fit on a case by case basis. We are an equal opportunities employer and favour diversity. We offer a young and dynamic working environment in a hip and exciting co-working space called MINDSPACE right in the heart of Berlin. We are a small, but growing team and are very well-connected in the Digital Health ecosystem. We offer enough flexibility to grow personally and professionally. Location: Berlin Position: Full-time If you feel addressed by this job description, feel encouraged to get in touch at chakrabarty(a)neuraltrain.de<mailto:chakrabarty@neuraltrain.de> with your CV and cover letter describing your motivation for the project and digital health. Dr. Arnab Chakrabarty Founder and CEO, neuraltrain GmbH --- Contact Details: Dr. Arnab Chakrabarty CEO, neuraltrain GmbH Phone: +49 (0)160 97041155 Email: chakrabarty(a)neuraltrain.de<mailto:chakrabarty@neuraltrain.de> --- Company Details: Address: neuraltrain GmbH, c/o F.H. Incubator GmbH, Friedrichstr. 68, 10117 Berlin, Germany Registered at Handelsregister des Registergerichts Charlottenburg; Registernummer: HRB 191630 B UStID: Pending Managing Director: Dr. Arnab Chakrabarty --- This e-mail and any attachment is for authorised use by the intended recipient(s) only. It may contain proprietary material, confidential information and/or be subject to company privilege. It should not be copied, disclosed to, retained or used by, any other party. If you are not an intended recipient then please promptly delete this e-mail and any attachment and all copies and inform the sender. Thank you.

1 0

Faculty jobs in brain stimulation at Stanford University
by Wei Wu March 26, 2018

March 26, 2018

To whom it may concern, I wanted to share a link to this job posting for those who are interested: http://med.stanford.edu/content/dam/sm/psychiatry/documents/ about_us/FacultyJobs/BrainStimulation.pdf

1 0

11ᵗʰ Advanced Scientific Programming in Python in Camerino, Italy, 3—8 September, 2018
by Jakob Jordan March 25, 2018

March 25, 2018

11ᵗʰ Advanced Scientific Programming in Python ============================================== a Summer School by the G-Node and the University of Camerino https://python.g-node.org Scientists spend more and more time writing, maintaining, and debugging software. While techniques for doing this efficiently have evolved, only few scientists have been trained to use them. As a result, instead of doing their research, they spend far too much time writing deficient code and reinventing the wheel. In this course we will present a selection of advanced programming techniques and best practices which are standard in the industry, but especially tailored to the needs of a programming scientist. Lectures are devised to be interactive and to give the students enough time to acquire direct hands-on experience with the materials. Students will work in pairs throughout the school and will team up to practice the newly learned skills in a real programming project — an entertaining computer game. We use the Python programming language for the entire course. Python works as a simple programming language for beginners, but more importantly, it also works great in scientific simulations and data analysis. We show how clean language design, ease of extensibility, and the great wealth of open source libraries for scientific computing and data visualization are driving Python to become a standard tool for the programming scientist. This school is targeted at Master or PhD students and Post-docs from all areas of science. Competence in Python or in another language such as Java, C/C++, MATLAB, or Mathematica is absolutely required. Basic knowledge of Python and of a version control system such as git, subversion, mercurial, or bazaar is assumed. Participants without any prior experience with Python and/or git should work through the proposed introductory material before the course. We are striving hard to get a pool of students which is international and gender-balanced: see how far we got in previous years <https://python.g-node.org/wiki/archives#stats>! Date & Location =============== 3–8 September, 2018. Camerino, Italy. Application =========== You can apply online: https://python.g-node.org/wiki/applications Application deadline: 23:59 UTC, 31 May, 2018. There will be no deadline extension, so be sure to apply on time. Be sure to read the FAQ before applying: https://python.g-node.org/wiki/faq Participation is for free, i.e. no fee is charged! Participants however should take care of travel, living, and accommodation expenses by themselves. Program ======= • Version control with git and how to contribute to open source projects with GitHub • Best practices in data visualization • Organizing, documenting, and distributing scientific code • Testing scientific code • Profiling scientific code • Advanced NumPy • Advanced scientific Python: decorators, context managers, generators, and elements of object oriented programming • Writing parallel applications in Python • Speeding up scientific code with Cython and numba • Memory-bound computations and the memory hierarchy • Programming in teams Also see the detailed day-by-day schedule: https://python.g-node.org/wiki/schedule Faculty ======= • Ashwin Trikuta Srinath, Cyberinfrastructure Technology Integration, Clemson University, SC USA • Jenni Rinker, Department of Wind Energy, Technical University of Denmark, Roskilde Denmark • Juan Nunez-Iglesias, Melbourne Bioinformatics, University of Melbourne Australia • Nicolas P. Rougier, Inria Bordeaux Sud-Ouest, Institute of Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Bordeaux France • Pietro Berkes, NAGRA Kudelski, Lausanne Switzerland • Rike-Benjamin Schuppner, Institute for Theoretical Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Germany • Tiziano Zito, freelance consultant, Berlin Germany • Zbigniew Jędrzejewski-Szmek, Red Hat Inc., Warsaw Poland Organizers ========== For the German Neuroinformatics Node of the INCF (G-Node) Germany: • Tiziano Zito, freelance consultant, Berlin Germany • Caterina Buizza, Personal Robotics Lab, Imperial College London UK • Zbigniew Jędrzejewski-Szmek, Red Hat Inc., Warsaw Poland • Jakob Jordan, Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Switzerland Switzerland For the University of Camerino Italy: • Flavio Corradini, Computer Science Division, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino Italy • Barbara Re, Computer Science Division, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino Italy Website: https://python.g-node.org Contact: python-info(a)g-node.org -- Jakob Jordan Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany tel.: +49 2461 61-96450 http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience
by Obermayer, Klaus, Prof. Dr. March 25, 2018

March 25, 2018

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience & Machine Learning Neural Information Processing Group, Fakultät IV, Technische Universität Berlin and Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany Salary grade E13 (TV-L Berliner Hochschulen) Duration: max. 5 years Starting date: October 1st, 2018 Working field: The successful candidate is expected to join collaborative research projects at the interface of computational neuroscience and machine learning. The position is also affiliated with the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (https://www.bccn-berlin.de/) and the candidate is welcome to participate in its scientific and training activities. Teaching responsibilities include the supervision of two tutorials per week during the semester associated with the courses taught by the Neural Information Processing Group. For more information about our current research projects see: http://www.ni.tu-berlin.de/. Requirements: Successfully completed university degree (Master, Diplom or equivalent) in Computational Neuroscience, Computer Science or another MINT subject; very good knowledge of machine learning and Computational Neuroscience; experience in teaching (supervision of tutorials) is desirable; very good German and English skills. How to apply: Please send your written application with the reference number (IV-158/18) and the usual documents to Technische Universität Berlin - Der Präsident - Fakultät IV, Institut für Softwaretechnik und Theoretische Informatik, FG Neuronale Informationsverarbeitung, Prof. Dr. Obermayer, Sekr. MAR 5-6, Marchstr. 23, 10587 Berlin or - preferably - by e-mail to klaus.obermayer(a)tu-berlin.de. Closing date: April 20th, 2018 To ensure equal opportunities between women and men, applications by women with the required qualifications are explicitly desired. Qualified individuals with disabilities will be favored. The TU Berlin values the diversity of its members and is committed to the goals of equal opportunities. Please send copies only. Original documents will not be returned.

1 0

Methods in Neuroscience at Dartmouth (MIND) 2018 Computational Summer School
by Matthijs van der Meer March 23, 2018

March 23, 2018

Methods in Neuroscience at Dartmouth (MIND) 2018 Computational Summer School https://summer-mind.github.io/ July 30th - August 7th, 2018 Application Deadline: April 29th, 2018 We are delighted to welcome applications for the second annual Methods in Neuroscience at Dartmouth (MIND) Computational Summer School. The theme of this year’s summer school is Narratives and Natural Contexts. There has been renewed interest in extending the study of neural and psychological phenomena in highly controlled laboratory settings to more naturalistic paradigms that more closely reflect the rich spatiotemporal structure of the real world. Bridging this divide requires developing new experiments and analytic methods. The goal of our summer school is to provide a forum for gaining hands-on experience with some of the latest computational tools that can help gain insight into understanding how our brains process naturalistic stimuli and contexts. We will offer a mix of expertise at a broad range of spatiotemporal scales and domains (e.g. behavioral, cognitive, social; circuit, whole-brain, and social networks; etc.). In addition, we will maintain our special focus on training students to use and contribute to open-source tools, data sharing, and other “best practices” for open science. For more information, and/or to apply, please visit our website, https://summer-mind.github.io/. Please note that this year’s application deadline is April 29, 2018. You may also find information about last year’s summer school (theme: multiscale network dynamics) along with all course materials here, https://summer-mind.github.io/2017.html. We anticipate a diverse and talented mix of graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and junior faculty will participate in the summer school, and we hope to see you this summer in Hanover! Kind regards, Luke Chang, Jeremy Manning, and Matt van der Meer Directors Jim Haxby, Thalia Wheatley, and Dan Rockmore Advisory Committee This event is sponsored by the Center for Social Brain Sciences, Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Dartmouth Research Computing, and Neukom Institute for Computational Sciences at Dartmouth.

1 0

Job openings at Jülich Supercomputing Centre
by Jochen Martin Eppler March 23, 2018

March 23, 2018

Dear all, at the Jülich Supercomputing Centre at Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, we currently have two open positions in the context of the Human Brain Project: * Scientific programmer in computational neuroscience<http://www.fz-juelich.de/SharedDocs/Stellenangebote/_common/dna/2018-061-EN…> * Senior scientific developer in computational neuroscience<http://www.fz-juelich.de/SharedDocs/Stellenangebote/_common/dna/2018-062-EN…> For details about the institute and the positions, please follow the links. Best regards, Jochen! -- Dr. Jochen Martin Eppler Phone: +49(2461)61-96653 ---------------------------------- Simulation Laboratory Neuroscience Jülich Supercomputing Centre Institute for Advanced Simulation ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Brain Dynamics Toolbox for Matlab
by Stewart Heitmann March 23, 2018

March 23, 2018

Dear all, The Brain Dynamics Toolbox (http://www.bdtoolbox.org <http://www.bdtoolbox.org/>) is open-source software for simulating dynamical systems in neuroscience. It is for researchers and students who wish to explore mathematical models of brain function using Matlab. It includes a graphical tool for simulating dynamical systems in real-time as well as command-line tools for scripting large-scale simulations. Custom systems of differential equations can typically be defined in less than 100 lines of standard matlab code. The graphical interface is designed to be used as both a research tool and a teaching tool. Its hub-and-spoke architecture allows new combinations of numerical solvers and interactive plots (time plots, phase plots, bifurcation diagrams, space-time plots, etc) to be applied to any model with no additional programming effort. Version 2018a of the Brain Dynamics Toolbox has just been released and is available from http://www.bdtoolbox.org <http://www.bdtoolbox.org/> The Handbook for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox is available from https://www.amazon.com/dp/198057250X <https://www.amazon.com/dp/198057250X> The toolbox will be featured at the at the Australian Connectomics School (ACS-2018) in Melbourne, 30 May to 1 June 2018. Best Regards Stewart Heitmann & Michael Breakspear QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute Systems Neuroscience Group

1 0

Now hiring: The Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, CAMH - Toronto, Canada
by Sean Hill March 22, 2018

March 22, 2018

The Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics (www.krembilneuroinformatics.ca<http://www.krembilneuroinformatics.ca>) based at CAMH (www.camh.ca<http://www.camh.ca>), and fully affiliated with the University of Toronto, Canada, is hiring world-leading specialists to transform our understanding of mental health by organizing, integrating, analyzing, visualizing and modelling data across all levels of the brain —from genes to circuits to behaviour. This multimodal data is gathered across the clinical environment including genetic, epigenetic, MRI, DTI, fMRI, hd-EEG, actigraphy and electronic medical record data. Teams will employ state-of-the-art techniques including topological data analysis, machine learning and multiscale computational modeling to accelerate identification and treatment of mental health disorders. Research is performed in an open, team science environment, with an emphasis on reproducible data-driven research and a patient-centric approach. A focus on global collaboration is key to transforming our understanding of mental health and its treatment. The centre will operate as an incubator for medical technologies to identify, manage and treat mental illness, while shaping policy at national and global levels. The centre is expanding with the following openings (see http://krembilneuroinformatics.ca/apply for full details and to apply): *Independent Scientist for Computational Genomics The Independent Scientist for Computational Genomics will build and lead a team of talented bioinformatics researchers, computational biologists, and computer scientists who employ and develop state-of-the-art genetic, epigenetic and transcriptomic analyses and predictive models to provide new insights into mental health and brain disorders in a data driven way, making outcome predictors and identifying optimal intervention opportunities. *Independent Scientist for Brain Circuit Modelling The Independent Scientist for Brain Circuit Modelling will build and lead a team responsible for the development, simulation and analysis of dynamic and perturbable computational models of biophysically detailed brain circuitry (for both preclinical and human brains), integrating genetic, epigenetic and transcriptomic data, and ion channel, cellular and synaptic biophysics. The team will work in close collaboration with other groups involved in detailed biophysical modeling, e.g. the Blue Brain Project and Allen Institute for Brain Science. The team will also be responsible for curating and maintaining data, literature and models to enable data-driven modeling of brain circuitry in health and disease, in addition to the concurrent construction of atlases, development of analysis approaches and identification of biomarkers to define mental health and brain disorders in a data driven way, such as aberrant dynamical processes. *Independent Scientist for Whole Brain Modelling The Independent Scientist for Whole Brain Modelling will build and lead a team responsible for the development of dynamic and perturbable causal models of the human brain, in health and in the context of mental illness, incorporating multi-modal neuroimaging and expression data including, but not limited to, structural, functional, diffusion and spectrometry MRI, PET/CT and EEG. The team will also be responsible for the concurrent construction of atlases, development of analysis approaches and identification of biomarkers to define mental health and brain disorders in a data driven manner. *Independent Scientist for Whole Person Modelling The Independent Scientist for Whole Person Modeling will build and lead a team responsible for the development and application of predictive modeling approaches for individual citizen, patient and population trajectories and outcomes. This includes tools, pipelines and approaches for the exploration, visualization and analysis of complex high-dimensional data, with the aim of the data-driven definition of mental health and brain disorders, and the establishment of outcome predictors and identification of optimal intervention opportunities. *Independent Scientist for Brain and Health Knowledge Management The Independent Scientist for Brain and Health Knowledge Management will build and lead a team responsible for organizing and disseminating data, models and literature related to the definition and treatment of mental health disorders to support both researchers and clinicians. This team will maintain and curate ontologies of brain disorders and link to data, analyses, visualizations, literature and models supporting their definition. This clinical support platform will support reasoning and inference across definitions and datasets to bridge psychiatric and neurological disorders. *Knowledge Engineering Lead The Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics is launching a knowledge engineering initiative to structure and map vast quantities of clinical and research data into a unified schema and develop a knowledge graph. This initiative will lay the technical foundation to support supervised and unsupervised content discovery, enable data mining, and facilitate interactive modes of engagement with our data corpus. A new Knowledge Engineering team is being established to spearhead the implementation of this initiative. This is a unique opportunity to partner with world-class researchers in the creation of unprecedented knowledge discovery tools. *Brain Imaging Data Engineer The Brain Imaging Data Engineer role will be accountable for managing and enhancing the solution for collecting, storing, curating and integrating brain imaging data sets across the organization, including, but not limited to the following modalities: MRI, PET and EEG. You will work closely with the senior architects on the technology team as well as collaborating with scientific leads. You will be accountable to evolve the technology solution to keep up with industry changes to ensure the solution remains optimal. *Molecular Data Engineer The Molecular Data Engineer role will be accountable for managing and enhancing the solution for collecting, storing, curating and integrating molecular data sets across the organization. You will work closely with the senior architects on the technology team as well as collaborating with scientific leads. You will be accountable to evolve the technology solution to keep up with industry changes to ensure the solution remains optimal. *Senior Project Manager – BrainHealth Databank The Senior Project Manager will work with multiple stakeholders both internal and external to CAMH and be responsible for the hands-on leadership and oversight for the development and execution of work plans, accountabilities, and timelines associated with the BrainHealth Databank initiative. The BrainHealth Databank platform will be specifically designed to support multidimensional phenotyping studies that combine digital phenotyping and laboratory-based data across existing and future clinical studies at CAMH. All data will be organized within the knowledge graph of the BrainHealth Databank. The platform will support configuration of studies that integrate common data elements and CRFs, wearable and mobile devices, voice samples, electronic medical record (EMR) extracts, outcome assessments and health care system usage. CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. AVIS DE CONFIDENTIALITÉ : Ce message électronique, ainsi que tout fichier qui y est joint, est reserve à l'usage exclusif du destinataire visé et peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels et privilégiés. Toute lecture, utilisation, divulgation ou distribution non autorisée est interdite. Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire visé, veuillez en aviser l'expéditeur par retour de courriel et détruire toutes les copies du message original.

1 0

CFP, Special session - Hybrid Life: Approaches to integrate biological, artificial and cognitive systems, ALife 2018
by Manuel Baltieri March 21, 2018

March 21, 2018

[Apologies for cross-posting] ********** Call for Papers ********** Special session - Hybrid Life: Approaches to integrate biological, artificial and cognitive systems https://sites.google.com/view/hybrid-life/ <https://sites.google.com/view/hybrid-life/> 2018 Artificial Life conference (ALife) Tokyo, JAPAN, 23-27 July 2018 - http://2018.alife.org/ <http://2018.alife.org/> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DESCRIPTION: The main focus of ALife research is the study of natural systems with the goal of understanding what life is. More concretely, ALife defines ways to investigate processes that contribute to the formation and proliferation of living organisms. In this session we focus on three common approaches to tackle this investigation, proposing ways to integrate, extend and possibly improve them. More specifically we refer to: 1) the formalisation of the necessary properties for the definition of life, 2) the implementation of artificial agents, and 3) the study of the relation between life and cognition. For this special session we propose to start from these well-established Alife methodologies, and extend them through: a unified formal language for the description and modelling of living, as well as artificial and cognitive systems, e.g. control theory, Bayesian inference, dynamical systems theory, etc., the exploration of biological creatures enhanced by artificial systems (or artificial systems augmented with organic parts) in order to investigate the boundaries between living and nonliving organisms, and the evaluation of coupled biological-artificial systems that could shed light on the importance of interactions among systems for the study of living and cognitive organisms. This special sessions aims to invite contributions from the fields of psychology, computational neuroscience, HCI, theoretical biology, artificial intelligence, robotics and cognitive science to discuss current research on the formalisation, combination and interaction of artificial/living/cognitive systems from theoretical, modelling and implementational perspectives. Potential topics include, but are not limited to: Formalisation of life and cognition (e.g. dynamical systems theory, stochastic optimal control, Bayesian inference, etc.) Cognitive robotics Autopoiesis Life-mind continuity thesis Systems biology Origins-of-life theories with relationships to artificial and cognitive systems Animal-robot interaction Bio-inspired robotics Bio-integrated robotics Human-machine interaction Augmented cognition Sensory substitution Interactive evolutionary computation Artificial perception Important Dates 19th March 2018 – Paper submission deadline 23rd April 2018 – Paper acceptance notification 21st May 2018 – Camera-ready version 23-27th July 2018 – Artificial Life conference (ALife), Tokyo, Japan Paper Submission Papers and abstracts submitted to this special sessions will be reviewed by a selected group of experts from the a-life community as well as from other areas key to our proposal, specifically chosen for this review process. If you are submitting to a special session you will be given the opportunity to select it during the submission process. Submissions to special sessions follow the same format, instructions and deadlines of regular ALife papers. Organizers Manuel Baltieri, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK. m.baltieri(a)sussex.ac.uk <mailto:m.baltieri@sussex.ac.uk> Keisuke Suzuki, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK. k.suzuki(a)sussex.ac.uk <mailto:filippo.m.bianchi@uit.no> Hiryuki IIzuka, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan hiroyukiiizuka(a)gmail.com <mailto:hiroyukiiizuka@gmail.com> Contacts For questions, enquiries and more information please check our website https://sites.google.com/view/hybrid-life/ <https://sites.google.com/view/hybrid-life/> or get in touch with m.baltieri(a)sussex.ac.uk <mailto:m.baltieri@sussex.ac.uk>. All the best, -- Manuel Baltieri, EASy group Department of Informatics, University of Sussex, UK Twitter: @manuelbaltieri

2 3

Abstract submission for Neuroinformatics 2018 in Montréal, Canada is open!
by congress March 21, 2018

March 21, 2018

Dear all, Abstract submission for Neuroinformatics 2018 in Montréal, Canada on August 9-10 is now open! The annual INCF Congress provides a meeting place for researchers in all fields related to neuroinformatics. Join us for keynotes from top neuroscientists, community sessions and poster- and demo sessions. Neuroinformatics 2018 will be a great opportunity to introduce new participants to the field of neuroinformatics and highlight new and innovative tools and approaches. Providing a forum for infrastructure providers and developers of tools, standards, and best practices to help define the capabilities of the global network, receive training on how to participate in the Open, FAIR and Citable global network and learn how to provide better services to their constituents. *Abstract submission deadline is April 30: **neuroinformatics2018.org/abstracts <http://neuroinformatics2018.org/abstracts>* Registration will open shortly. More information: *neuroinformatics2018.org <http://www.neuroinformatics2018.org>* Please spread this information to anyone you feel would be interested in attending. *The International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF) is an international non-profit organization devoted to advancing the field of neuroinformatics and global collaborative brain research. Learn more about INCF www.incf.org <http://www.incf.org/>* *We look forward to seeing you in Montréal!* Best Regards The INCF Secretariat <http://www.neuroinformatics2018.org> <http://www.neuroinformatics2018.org>

1 0

DynaSim: A MATLAB/GNU Octave Toolbox for Neural Modeling and Simulation
by Jason Sherfey March 20, 2018

March 20, 2018

Dear Colleagues, We are happy to announce the release of DynaSim, an open-source MATLAB/GNU Octave toolbox for rapid prototyping of neural models and batch simulation management. It was designed to speed up and simplify the process of generating, sharing, and exploring network models of neurons with one or more compartments; it is the first, comprehensive neural modeling and simulation platform developed in MATLAB. It provides C compilation, optimized vector calculations, multi-core processing, and support for compute clusters to overcome the traditionally slow simulation speeds of MATLAB. It is also available for high performance computing via the Neuroscience Gateway web portal. A paper introducing DynaSim was recently published in Frontiers in Neuroinformatics: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fninf.2018.00010/full. Documentation is available online at http://dynasimtoolbox.org. We hope this tool reduces barriers for investigating dynamics in neural models, facilitates collaborative modeling, and complements other tools being developed in the neuroinformatics community. Most of all, we hope you find this toolbox useful! Please direct questions to the lead developer, Jason Sherfey < sherfey(a)mit.edu> or the user mailing list: https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/dynasim-users. Best regards, Jason Dr. Jason Sherfey Postdoctoral Research Fellow Psychological & Brain Sciences, Boston University Massachusetts Institute of Technology The Picower Institute for Learning & Memory http://JasonSherfey.com

1 0

PhD/postdoc in Sensory and Behavioral Neuroscience, Gjorgjieva and Grunwald Kadow Labs in Frankfurt/Munich
by Gjorgjieva, Julijana March 20, 2018

March 20, 2018

Reminder and deadline extension: The labs of Julijana Gjorgjieva (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany) and Ilona Grunwald Kadow at the TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Germany invite applications for a fully-funded position (Postdoc or PhD student). We are looking for highly-motivated individuals with a strong quantitative background (in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or related fields), experience in programming and data analysis, and a desire to develop cutting-edge experimental techniques. Previous background in neuroscience, imaging or behavioral analysis is a plus! The project will examine the neural basis of need and effort-based decision-making in a collaboration between the Gjorgjieva lab, which develops theoretical models of neural circuit processing, and the Grunwald Kadow lab, which studies neural circuits underlying sensory processing and decision making in animal models. The project aims to uncover circuit principles and behavioral readouts of motivation, persistence, and value perception as a function of internal state or experience (e.g. hunger). In particular, the Grunwald Kadow lab is collecting rich data sets of behavioral trajectories of single Drosophila flies as well as functional imaging data (i.e. multiphoton and light-sheet) of neuronal populations (e.g. modulatory neurons). The project will aim to develop advanced analysis techniques that extract key statistical features of the behavioral trajectories and imaging data, and build mathematical models that reproduce the data and make new predictions to be further tested experimentally. By combining behaviour, genetics and imaging, we will also develop neural circuit models that involve several brain areas, including sensory brain areas and higher cognitive regions of the fly brain (i.e. mushroom body). References: S. Sayin J. Gjorgjieva, I. C. Grunwald Kadow (2018). A neural circuit arbitrates between perseverance and reward in hungry Drosophila. BioRxiv doi.org/10.1101/259119<http://doi.org/10.1101/259119> J. Gjorgjieva, G. Drion and E. Marder (2016). Computational implications of biophysical diversity and multiple timescales in neurons and synapses for circuit performance. Curr Opin Neurobiol 37:44-52. Lewis L, Siju KP, Aso Y, Friedrich AB, Bulteel AJB, Rubin GM, Grunwald Kadow IC (2015). A higher brain circuit for immediate integration of conflicting sensory information in Drosophila. Current Biology PMID: 26299514, doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.07.015 Application: The position will be based at the Technical University of Munich, with frequent visits to the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, two of the most exciting and international cities in Germany. The application deadline has been extended to: April 15, 2018. Applicants will be considered until the position is filled. For further information please visit: http://www.cns.wzw.tum.de and http://www.neuro.wzw.tum.de or email gjorgjieva(a)brain.mpg.de and ilona.grunwald(a)tum.de. To apply, please email the following to: neuro(a)wzw.tum.de (ref. GGK application) 1. A curriculum vitae 2. A letter of motivation explaining your scientific interests, your strengths when working on a problem, why us etc. 3. Contact details for 2 referees 4. A written sample of scientific research, e.g. a manuscript, thesis, or code etc. ----------------------------------------- Julijana Gjorgjieva, PhD Research Group Leader Max Planck Institute for Brain Research Max-von-Laue-Str. 4, Frankfurt Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Technical University of Munich, WZW Freising office: +49 69 850033 3600 http://cns.wzw.tum.de

1 0

Cajal Course in Computational Neuroscience -- Deadline April 2
by Jakob Macke March 20, 2018

March 20, 2018

Dear colleagues, final reminder and line-up for the Cajal Computational Neuroscience Course in Lisbon this summer. We extended the deadline to April 2, so there is still time to apply! Best, Jakob Macke CAJAL COURSE IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE 12 August - 1 September 2018, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal http://www.cccn.pt Applications deadline: 2 April 2018 (midnight, CET time) DIRECTORS • Joe Paton (Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Portugal) • Jakob Macke (TU Darmstadt & Research Center Caesar Bonn, Germany) • Christian Machens (Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Portugal) Computational Neuroscience is a rapidly evolving field whose methods and techniques are critical for understanding and modelling the brain, and also for designing and interpreting experiments. Mathematical modeling is an essential tool to cut through the vast complexity of neurobiological systems and their many interacting elements. This three-weeks school teaches the central ideas, methods, and practice of modern computational neuroscience through a combination of lectures and hands-on project work. Each morning is devoted to lectures given by distinguished international faculty on topics across the breadth of experimental and computational neuroscience. During the rest of the day, students work on research projects in teams of 2-3 people under the close supervision of expert tutors and faculty. Research projects will be proposed by faculty before the course, and will include the modeling of neurons, neural systems, and behavior, the analysis of state-of-the-art neural data (behavioral data, multi-electrode recordings, calcium imaging data, connectomics data, etc.), and the development of theories to explain experimental observations. The course is designed for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from a variety of disciplines, including neuroscience, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics and psychology. Students are expected to have a keen interest and basic background in neurobiology, a solid foundation in mathematics, as well as some computer experience. A four-day pre-school in mathematics and programming is offered for students that want to catch up on their math and programming skills. A maximum of 24 students will be accepted. Students of any nationality can apply. We specifically encourage applications from researchers who work in the developing world. Stipends are available. More information on the course website, http://www.cccn.pt Apply here: http://www.fens.org/Training/CAJAL-programme/CAJAL-courses-2018/CCCN-2018/A… Contact address: Simone Zacarias, simone.zacarias(a)research.fchampalimaud.org Confirmed faculty: Matthias Bethge, University of Tübingen Kevin Briggman, Research Center Caesar, Bonn, Germany Megan Carey, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Portugal Claudia Clopath, Imperial College London, UK Sophie Deneve, ENS Paris, France Rainer Engelken, Columbia University, US Julijana Gjorgjieva, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Germany Pedro Goncalves, Research Center Caesar, Bonn, Germany Michael Häusser, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, UK Andreas Herz, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Munich, Germany Simon Laughlin, University of Cambridge, UK Gilles Laurent, Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Germany Máté Lengyel, University of Cambridge, UK Jennifer Linden, UCL Ear Institute, UK Elliot Ludvig, Warwick University, UK Anthony Movshon, New York University, USA Maneesh Sahani, Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, UCL, UK Cristina Savin, New York University, USA Jeffrey Taube, Dartmouth College, USA Eero Simoncelli, New York University, USA Tim Vogels, Oxford University, UK Byron Yu, Carnegie Mellon University, USA Jakob Macke www.mackelab.org

1 0

postdoctoral positions in theoretical neuroscience at the Kavli Institute in Trondheim
by Yasser Roudi March 19, 2018

March 19, 2018

Postdoctoral positions in theoretical/computational neuroscience are available at the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience/Centre for Neural Computation in Trondheim, Norway. The position(s) is a part of the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience. The Centre for Neural Computation is a recently established centre of excellence funded for 10 years by the Norwegian Research Council. We offer an international and multidisciplinary environment in which creativity and scientific discourse is valued and stimulated. Through our widespread network of international collaborations, unique career possibilities are offered. See http://www.ntnu.no/cbm/ for detailed information. The position will be part of the group headed by Professor Yasser Roudi. The position/s will be for 2 years. The successful applicant will take part in mainly independent research in theoretical neuroscience and statistical inference within the Roudi group. The specifics of the projects are up to agreement and discussion and new and novel ideas are highly welcome. Developing models of grid cells and their interactions with hippocampus as well as analysis of neural data from these areas will be one possible directions of research that can be taken during the tenure of the position. For more Information and details about how to apply please see https://www.jobbnorge.no/ledige-stillinger/stilling/149615/post-doc-kavli-i…

1 0

FENS Satellite Meeting on "Receptive Fields: Analysis, Models and Applications": 6 July 2018 - applications open
by Anthony Burkitt March 18, 2018

March 18, 2018

Dear Colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to the FENS Satellite Meeting on "Receptive Fields: Analysis, Models and Applications", to be held on 6th July 2018. Applications are open at the Workshop website: fenscibf2018.eventbrite.com.au<http://fenscibf2018.eventbrite.com.au> RECEPTIVE FIELDS: ANALYSIS, MODELS AND APPLICATIONS At this FENS satellite meeting, eight world-leading researchers will discuss the latest advances on the formation and analysis of visual receptive fields and place maps, bringing together insights and discoveries from around the world. Topics will include state-of-the-art experimental and computational approaches to receptive field analysis, visual pathways, place maps and adaptation to the statistics of the visual environment. KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: • Tatyana Sharpee SALK Institute, USA • Michael Ibbotson National Vision Research Institute, Australia • Yves Fragnac CNRS, France • Jose-Manuel Alonso State University of New York, USA • TR Vidyasagar University of Melbourne, Australia • Dirk Jancke Ruhr University, Germany • Elizabeth Zavitz Monash University, Australia • Simon Schultz Imperial College, UK MEETING DETAILS DATE: Friday, 6 July 2018 TIME: 9am – 5pm CEST / Germany (Berlin) Time VENUE: Hotel NH Collection Berlin Friedrichstraße, Friedrichstraße 96, 10117 Berlin, Germany COST: Early bird fee by 6 April 2018 - €30 ; Standard fee by 22 June 2018 - €50 ; Registration includes refreshments, lunch and snacks. REGISTER HERE URL: fenscibf2018.eventbrite.com.au<http://fenscibf2018.eventbrite.com.au> CONTACT Email: Tenille Ryan (tryan(a)aco.org.au<mailto:tryan@aco.org.au>)

1 0

Failures of adaptively timed hippocampal learning during memory consolidation and Fragile X syndrome
by Grossberg, Stephen March 17, 2018

March 17, 2018

The following two articles model how failures of adaptively timed learning and incentive motivational support by hippocampus (i.e., failure of “time cells”) can cause clinical problems in memory consolidation and Fragile X syndrome: ***************** Franklin, D. J., and Grossberg, S. (2017). A neural model of normal and abnormal learning and memory consolidation: Adaptively timed conditioning, hippocampus, amnesia, neurotrophins, and consciousness. Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Neuroscience, 17, 24-76. http://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/s13415-016-0463-y This article explains and simulates the kinds of data that many cognitive neuroscientists have reported after the famous case of the amnesic patient HM; namely, how, after some learning occurs, early vs. late lesions of amygdala, hippocampus, or orbitofrontal cortex can cause very different memory consolidation problems. ***************** Grossberg, S., and Kishnan, D. (2018). Neural dynamics of autistic repetitive behaviors and Fragile X syndrome: Basal ganglia movement gating and mGluR-modulated adaptively timed learning. Frontiers in Psychology, Psychopathology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00269. This article explains how Fragile X syndrome can be caused when mGluR-mediated adaptively timed hippocampal learning and support of motivated attention fail.

1 0

Call for papers - Special issue on Operations Research for Neuroscience II
by Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan March 15, 2018

March 15, 2018

Dear Colleagues, ~~~ Apologies for cross-posting ~~~ We are happy to announce a second special issue on Operations Research for Neuroscience. The special issue will be published in the journal Annals of Operations Research, Springer. We strongly encourage the submission of manuscripts which propose further developments of modern formal theories (such as the free-energy principle, integrated information, Bayesian inference, etc). The use of methods from modern operations research in neuroscience is a prerequisite for any paper submitted to this special issue to enter the reviewing process. Submission deadline: December 1, 2018 Please find the CfP as plain text below or as a pdf file here: CfP - ANOR SI OR for Neuroscience <https://sites.google.com/site/rubentikidjihamburyan/research/CfP-ANOR_SI_OR…> Best, Ruben ____________________________________________________ ― Call for Papers ― Annals of Operations Research Special Issue Operations Research for Neuroscience II ____________________________________________________ After the positive and encouraging response from the scientific and wider community to the special issue Operations Research for Neuroscience, the journal Annals of Operations Research (Springer) now invites submissions of papers to a second special issue on the same subject, called Operations Research for Neuroscience II. Neuroscience, a multidisciplinary science, is concerned with the study of the structure and functions of the nervous system. It comprises aspects of physiology, cellular and molecular biology, as well as behavioral and cognitive science. Recent technological and theoretical advances offer promising opportunities for better understanding of the nervous system at the quantitative level. New optogenetic, in vitro and in vivo multielectrode recording, neuroimaging, brain imaging, and other modern techniques provide high-quality data that can be used in elucidating the fundamental mechanisms of information processing in the nervous system. The rapidly growing pool of experimental data has triggered the development of new mathematical models that can provide new insights into the functioning of the nervous system at various scales, ranging from that of molecular biology to that of the organizational principles of behavior and cognition. Sophisticated analyses of intracellular signaling or dynamics in heterogeneous neural networks, conditional behavior, or connections of brain regions in decision-making lead to theoretical problems, addressed by operations research. Although, operations research is actively used in bottom-up approaches--from experimental observation to consistent theory-- it also widely overlaps modern and rapidly developing formal theories, for example the free-energy principle, integrated information theory, and may others. The special issue will cover a broad range of topics in the field of neuroscience using operations research approaches, methods, and theories. Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following areas and methodologies of neuroscience: o intracellular signaling and regulation o synaptic plasticity o dynamics in heterogeneous neural networks o intelligent systems and control o perceptual, cognitive, and behavioral functions o learning and memory o spatio-temporal network analysis o behavioral economics and finance o linguistics and cognition o combinatorial optimization o signal and information processing o neuroimaging and functional brain imaging processing o computational modeling and simulation o formal theoretical approaches: the free-energy principle, integrated information, Bayesian inference, etc. The use of methods from modern operations research in neuroscience is a prerequisite for any paper submitted to this special issue to enter the reviewing process. Annals of Operations Research is abstracted and indexed in the following databases: Science Citation Index, Science Citation Index Expanded (SciSearch), Journal Citation Reports/Science Edition, SCOPUS, INSPEC, Zentralblatt Math, Google Scholar, EBSCO, CSA, ProQuest, ABS Academic Journal Quality Guide, Academic OneFile, Academic Search, Computer Abstracts International Database, Computer Science Index, CSA Environmental Sciences, Current Contents/Engineering, Computing and Technology, DBLP, ECONIS, Expanded Academic, International Abstracts in Operations Research, Mathematical Reviews, OCLC, SCImago, STMA-Z, Summon by ProQuest. The Special Issue is officially endorsed by EURO Conference 2018, Valencia. Guest Editors: Erik Kropat, Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan, Gerhard-Wilhelm Weber Important Date: Submission deadline of full papers: December 1, 2018. Submission Details: The format of manuscripts for the Annals of Operations Research as well as guidelines can be found on the web page of Springer, the publisher of the journal: http://www.springer.com/journal/10479/submission. Authors should submit a cover letter mentioning that the paper is for a special issue and a manuscript via the journal's online submission site: http://www.editorialmanager.com/anor. When prompted, please select the article type “S.I.: OR in Neuroscience II”. All papers submitted for publication will be carefully refereed. In case of any question please contact by e-mail one of the following guest editors: Dr. Erik Kropat Department of Computer Science Universität der Bundeswehr München Werner-Heisenberg-Weg 39 85577 Neubiberg, Germany E-mail: erik.kropat(a)gmx.de Dr. Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy Health Sciences Center, Louisiana State University New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, USA E-mail: rtikid(a)lsuhsc.edu Prof. Dr. Gerhard-Wilhelm Weber Faculty of Engineering Management Chair of Marketing and Economic Engineering Poznan University of Technology ul. Strzelecka 11 60-965 Poznan, Poland E-mail: gerhard.weber(a)put.poznan.pl

1 0

ACT-R Summer School application deadline approaching
by db30＠andrew.cmu.edu March 15, 2018

March 15, 2018

The deadline for applications, April 15th, is now only one month away. 2018 ACT-R Summer School and Master Class Carnegie Mellon University July 9-13, 2018 ACT-R is a unified theory of cognition that has been implemented in a software system called a cognitive architecture that can be used to develop computational cognitive models. It has been applied to modeling tasks that range from experimental tasks like simple reaction time and list learning, to real world tasks like driving a car and air traffic control. The 2018 ACT-R Summer School will take place at CMU in Pittsburgh from July 9-13. It consists of both a Summer School for beginning users and a Master Class for more experienced users. The Summer School will train researchers in the use of ACT-R for cognitive modeling using the ACT-R tutorial. Each day will consist of a morning theory lecture covering one or two tutorial units, an afternoon discussion session on the topics of the day, and modeling assignments which participants are expected to complete during the day and evening. The Master Class is organized in parallel with the Summer School. The Master Class offers the opportunity for ACT-R modelers to work on their own projects with guidance from experienced ACT-R researchers. There is no curriculum for the Master Class, but Master Class students are welcome to attend the Summer School lectures and discussion sessions. To provide an optimal learning environment, admission to the Summer School and Master Class will be limited. To apply for the Summer School, please email a curriculum vitae and a statement of purpose to db30(a)andrew.cmu.edu. Demonstrated experience with a modeling formalism similar to ACT-R will strengthen a Summer School application. To apply for the Master Class please email a curriculum vitae along with some information about your level of experience with ACT-R and some details on the project you expect to work on during the Master Class. Applications are due by April 15th and applicants will be notified of admission by April 30th. Admission to the Summer School and Master Class is free. Housing will be available in the CMU dormitories for approximately $65/day (single) or $50/day (shared). More information about ACT-R, including papers published by the ACT-R community, can be found on the ACT-R web site: <http://act-r.psy.cmu.edu/>. For more information on the Summer School and Master Class you can email Dan Bothell at db30(a)andrew.cmu.edu.

1 0

Call for papers - Special issue on Brain-Computer Interfaces for Human Augmentation
by Davide Valeriani March 15, 2018

March 15, 2018

Dear all, I thought some of you might be interested in contributing to this special issue of Brain Sciences about BCI for human augmentation. The deadline for manuscript submissions is *30 April 2018*. Please do get in touch if you are interested. More info at: *http://bit.ly/bcihuman <http://bit.ly/bcihuman> *or http://www.mdpi.com/journal/brainsci/special_issues/Brain_Computer_Interface P.S. Apologies for cross-posting. Best regards, Davide -- *Dr Davide Valeriani* Senior Research Officer BCI-NE Lab University of Essex *E* dvaler(a)essex.ac.uk *W* www.davidevaleriani.it

1 0

CFP: The OMG-Emotion Recognition Challenge
by Pablo Barros March 15, 2018

March 15, 2018

CALL FOR PARTICIPATION The One-Minute Gradual-Emotion Recognition (OMG-Emotion) held in partnership with the WCCI/IJCNN 2018 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. https://www2.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/OMG-EmotionChallenge/ I. Aim and Scope Our One-Minute-Gradual Emotion Dataset (OMG-Emotion Dataset) is composed of 420 relatively long emotion videos with an average length of 1 minute, collected from a variety of Youtube channels. The videos were selected automatically based on specific search terms related to the term ``monologue''. Using monologue videos allowed for different emotional behaviors to be presented in one context and that changes gradually over time. Videos were separated into clips based on utterances, and each utterance was annotated by at least five independent subjects using the Amazon Mechanical Turk tool. To maintain the contextual information for each video, each annotator watched the clips of a video in sequence and had to annotate each video using an arousal/valence scale and a categorical emotion based on the universal emotions from Ekman. We release the dataset with the gold standar for arousal and valence as well the invidivual annotations for each reviewer, which can help the development of different models. We will calculate the final Congruence Correlation Coefficient against the gold standard for each video. We also distribute the transcripts of what was spoken in each of the videos, as the contextual information is important to determine gradual emotional change through the utterances. The participants are encouraged to use crossmodal information in their models, as the videos were labeled by humans without distinction of any modality. We also will let available to the participant teams a set of scripts which will help them to pre-process the dataset and evaluate their model during in the training phase. We encourage the use of neural-computation models based on deep learning, sel-organization and recurrent neural networks, just to mention some of them, as they present the sate-of-the-art performance in such tasks. II. How to Participate To participate, please send us an email to barros(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de with the title "OMG-Emotion Recognition Team Registration". This e-mail must contain the following information: Team Name Team Members Affiliation Each team can have a maximum of 5 participants. You will receive from us the access to the dataset and all the important information about how to train and evaluate your models. For the final submission, each team will have to send us a .csv file containing the final arousal/valence values for each of the utterances on the test dataset. We also request a link to a GitHub repository where your solution must be stored, and a link to an ArXiv paper with 4-6 pages describing your model and results. The best papers will be invited to submit their detailed research to a journal yet to be specified. Also, the best participating teams will hold an oral presentation about their solution during the WCCI/IJCNN 2018 conference. III. Important Dates Publishing of training and validation data with annotations: March 14, 2018. Publishing of the test data, and an opening of the online submission: April 11, 2018. Closing of the submission portal: April 13, 2018. Announcement of the winner through the submission portal: April 18, 2018. IV. Organization Pablo Barros, University of Hamburg, Germany Egor Lakomkin, University of Hamburg, Germany Henrique Siqueira, Hamburg University, Germany Alexander Sutherland, Hamburg University, Germany Stefan Wermter, Hamburg University, Germany -- 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/

1 0

Faculty position in Math Biology at NJIT
by Victor Matveev March 14, 2018

March 14, 2018

Dear comp-neuro list members, The Department of Mathematical Sciences (DMS) at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) invites applications for a tenure-track position at the assistant professor level in mathematical biology. A second DMS tenure-track assistant professor position in the broader area of applied mathematics is advertised separately (links provided below). The appointment is to start in Fall 2018. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in mathematics, applied mathematics or a related discipline, with an established record of independent research, strong potential for seeking external research support, and a commitment to teaching at graduate and undergraduate levels. Candidates working in any subfield of mathematical biology will be given consideration. Currently, members of the DMS mathematical biology group are engaged in research in computational neuroscience, biological rhythms, biofluids and mechanosensing. To apply, please visit https://njit.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?site=1&id=35 The second position in applied mathematics is advertised separately at https://njit.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?site=1&id=30 Submissions must include (a) cover letter, (b) resume/CV, (c) research statement, (d) teaching statement, and (e) names and contact information for at least four references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please direct any questions to the search committee chair, Victor Matveev, at matveev(a)njit.edu. DMS is recognized for its strong program in applied mathematics, which offers B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees, with Ph.D. program tracks in applied mathematics as well as in applied probability and statistics. NJIT is in the University Heights neighborhood next to vibrant downtown Newark, about 12 miles west of New York City. The NJIT campus is adjacent to the campus of Rutgers-Newark, with which it shares several academic programs. DMS has close collaborative ties to the Department of Biological Sciences at NJIT. Excellent potential for outside collaboration is also afforded by the close geographic proximity of NJIT to other prominent centers for biological research such as the Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience at Rutgers-Newark, New Jersey Medical School, NYU, Columbia University, and Rockefeller University. Apart from mathematical biology, DMS faculty work in diverse fields of applied mathematics including fluid dynamics, granular matter, nonlinear waves, applied analysis, scientific computing, dynamical systems, and probability and statistics. NJIT is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer and strongly encourages women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to apply. -- ___________________________________ Victor Matveev, Professor Applied Math, Biophysics & Neuroscience Department of Mathematical Sciences Graduate Faculty, Dept of Biological Sciences New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark, NJ 07102-1982 Office: Cullimore Hall 616 E-mail: matveev(a)njit.edu http://web.njit.edu/~matveev/

1 1

Call for contributions: Grenoble Workshop on Models and Analysis of Eye Movements, June 06-08 2018
by Simon Barthelmé March 14, 2018

March 14, 2018

Grenoble workshop on models and analysis of eye movements: June 06-08 2018 Eye movements are easy to acquire and highly valuable for the study of cognitive processing. Their analysis presents interesting statistical challenges: scanpaths are complex spatiotemporal signals with relevant information at different spatial and temporal scales, from microsaccades to fixation patterns. The goal of this workshop is to bring together researchers who develop and use models to understand eye-movement data. We welcome contributions on all aspects of eye movement modelling and analysis, from saliency prediction to latent state models. Possible forms of contribution are: oral presentation, poster or demonstration. Deadline for abstract submission: April 22 2018 Deadline for registration: May 13 2018 Invited speakers: - Antje Nuthmann, University of Kiel - Yulia Sandamirskaya, University of Zurich & ETH - Jean Lorenceau, CNRS, LSP, ENS - Jean-Michel Boucheix, LEAD-CNRS, Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté Location: Grenoble is the largest city in the French Alps, with a large and vibrant academic community. It is easy to get to, with two major airports (Lyon & Geneva) in the vicinity and a TGV connection to Paris. More information and registration at: eyemovements.sciencesconf.org

1 0

Bernstein Conference 2018 - Call for Workshops - New Deadline: March 28, 2018, 3 pm CET
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder March 14, 2018

March 14, 2018

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops directly preceding the Bernstein Conference 2018 in Berlin. ************************************************************** Important Dates: Satellite Workshops: September 25 - 26, 2018 Main Bernstein Conference: September 26 - 28, 2018 New Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: March 28, 2018, 3 pm CET Notification of Workshop acceptance: April 2018 ************************************************************** Since 2013, the Bernstein Conference hosts pre-conference workshops which provide a stage to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches and challenges in Computational Neuroscience and related fields. Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster debate, rather than a mere series of talks. The selection criteria for Workshop proposals will include scientific excellence, topical relevance and gender diversity. The Bernstein Conference started out as the annual meeting of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience and has become the largest annual single-track Computational Neuroscience conference in Europe in recent years. Satellite Workshop schedule: September 25, 2018, 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm September 26, 2018, 8:30 am - noon Workshop proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. Workshop costs – FINANCIAL SUPPORT: All organizers and speakers of accepted workshops will receive a waiver for the workshop fee. Organizers of accepted workshops additionally receive a waiver for the main conference. Up to 10 selected workshops can receive financial support up to 1.500,00 € each. Coffee break catering will be provided. For further information about the conference, please visit the conference website http://www.bernstein-conference.de. INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSAL PREPARATION Workshop proposals must contain: 1) Workshop Title 2) Concise description of workshop topic 3) List of potential speakers indicating speaker commitment 4) Optional: a comment on how the organizers plan to achieve gender diversity among speakers Please use the Workshop Proposal Form that can be downloaded here: http://www.nncn.de/de/bernstein-conference/2018/satellite-workshops New Deadline for submission of Workshop proposals: March 28, 2018, 3 pm CET CONTACT: bernstein.network(at)fz-juelich.de We are looking forward to seeing you in Berlin! WORKSHOP SELECTION COMMITTEE: Jakob Macke (Workshop Chair) Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Workshop Vice Chair) Axel Borst Nicolas Brunel Anne Churchland Claudia Clopath Gaute Einevoll Adrienne Fairhall Gilles Laurent (Program Chair) Mate Lengyel Elad Schneidman Susanne Schreiber (Program Vice Chair) Terry Sejnowski Henning Sprekeler (Conference Host) Fred Wolf -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

University of Melbourne - LECTURER (5 Positions; Female Applicants Only)
by Uwe Aickelin March 14, 2018

March 14, 2018

Dear Colleagues, International Women’s Day provided us with the opportunity to reflect upon the diversity within our School. The Melbourne School of Engineering has 182 women academic staff, but this represents just 22 per cent of our total academic numbers. We are committed to remedying this imbalance and lifting the representation of women to 30 per cent by 2022. To help enact this change, I’m pleased to announce five new continuing positions that we are making available to women of exceptional calibre, in all fields of engineering, computing and information systems. The five positions are across the School and we are accepting applications from all related areas. To view complete position descriptions, click here<http://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/894257/lecturer-5-positions-female-ap…>. These positions are a key component of a broad suite of programs we have implemented at MSE that are aimed at increasing the recruitment, retention and promotion of women. Successful appointees will be given the opportunity to play a significant role in realising the industry engagement targets of MSE 2025, develop internationally recognised research portfolios, establish funding streams to support these portfolios, and to enhance interdisciplinary research within and outside the University, whilst contributing to teaching and curriculum development within MSE. Applications for part-time or other flexible working arrangements will be welcomed and will be fully considered subject to meeting the inherent requirements of the position. Close date: 8 Apr 2018 Uwe Aickelin -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Professor Uwe Aickelin – Head of School School of Computing and Information Systems Melbourne School of Engineering Level 8, Doug McDonell Building University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia T. +613 8344 3635 E: uwe.aickelin(a)unimelb.edu.au <mailto:uwe.aickelin@unimelb.edu.au> W: http://aickelin.com<http://aickelin.com/>

1 0

Translational Neurophysiology - RA, Postdoc, or Staff Scientist
by Platt, Jo Ann March 13, 2018

March 13, 2018

The Translational Neurophysiology Laboratory at the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine, headed by Assistant Professor Stavros Zanos MD PhD, focuses on physiological and translational research and development of bioelectronic devices and therapies in small (rodents) and large animal (swine) models. The lab utilizes a variety of techniques from neurophysiology and cardiovascular physiology, acute and chronic implants, experimental surgical and interventional techniques 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 be involved in the development of novel paradigms to record from and adaptively modulate the function of the central and peripheral nervous system (brain, spinal cord, ganglia, peripheral nerves) in rodents, in healthy animals and in disease models. Mouse and rat stereotaxic brain surgery Extracellular and/or intracellular in vivo neurophysiology Histology, tract tracing Optogenetics Optical imaging Autonomic physiology Keywords : neurophysiology, small animal, rodent, recording, stimulation, brain, peripheral nerves, chronic implants, surgery, optogenetics, optical imaging, autonomic nervous system Qualifications : Doctorate degree (Ph.D, M.D. or D.V.M.), required (MSc for research associate candidates) Authored/co-authored research papers and/or scientific abstracts, required. Research experience in rodent neurophysiology, required. In vivo optical imaging and optogenetic stimulation experience, preferred. Knowledge of data analysis software (e.g. Matlab), preferred. Send email including cover letter, CV and publications to: jojoplatt(a)theplattassociates.com 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.

1 0

M-GATE School: Under the Surface of Memory Phenomena
by Alessandro Treves March 12, 2018

March 12, 2018

TEX2018, the Cognitive Neuroscience summer activity at SISSA, Trieste will host this year "Under the Surface of Memory Phenomena", a school https://indico.sissa.it/e/tex2018/ organized by the M-GATE Innovative Training Network (https://www.mgate.eu/) open to other participants, from June 25 to July 3 2018. Apply now for 10-night accommodation, at cost (340 Euro), or register for self-organized participation (within space constraints), and join us also for the in-set symposium Remembering Daniel Amit, and Beyond! Deadline for applications April 2. Clever inquiries from tex(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

1 1

MBL Methods in Computational Neuroscience Course - deadline March 20
by Stephen A. Baccus March 12, 2018

March 12, 2018

Applications are open for the Methods in Computational Neuroscience course at the Marine Biology Laboratory in Woods Hole, MA. The course will run from July 29 to August 24, 2018, and the online application form can be found at: https://ws2.mbl.edu/studentapp/studentapp.asp?courseid=MCN The course application deadline is *March 20*. The course covers a range of topics in computational neuroscience including neuronal biophysics, neural coding & information processing, circuit dynamics, learning & memory, motor control, and cognitive processing & disease. In addition, numerous tutorials and problem sets will cover a broad range of computational and mathematical modeling methods. The course strongly emphasizes the collaboration between theory and experiment in solving neuroscience problems, and lectures will be given by a mixture of theorists and experimentalists. The final weeks of the course are primarily reserved for work on projects that students design in collaboration with the resident faculty. Further information can be found on the MCN website: http://www.mbl.edu/mcn/ 2018 Course Directors: Stephen Baccus, Stanford University Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University 2018 Confirmed Faculty: Larry Abbott, Columbia University Carlos Brody, Princeton University Emery Brown, MIT Dmitri Chklovskii, Simons Institute Claudia Clopath, Imperial Col. London Kenji Doya, Okinawa Inst. Sci. Tech. Uri Eden, Boston University Bard Ermentrout, U. of Pittsburgh Adrienne Fairhall, U. of Washington Ila Fiete, University of Texas Austin James Fitzgerald, Janelia Res., HHMI Loren Frank, UCSF Michale Fee, MIT Stefano Fusi, Columbia University Surya Ganguli, Stanford University Mark Goldman, UC Davis Kenneth Harris, U. College London James Haxby, Dartmouth University Nancy Kopell, Boston University Eve Marder, Brandeis University Bartlett Mel, Univ. of Southern California Jonathan Pillow, Princeton University David Redish, U. Minnesota Terry Sejnowski, Salk Institute Reza Shadmehr, Johns Hopkins Univ. Sara Solla, Northwestern University Haim Sompolinsky, Hebrew University Josh Tenenbaum, MIT Nao Uchida, Harvard University Greg Wayne, DeepMind Hongkui Zeng, Allen Institute

1 0

New NSF funding opportunity
by Tuller, Betty K. March 12, 2018

March 12, 2018

APOLOGIES FOR MULTIPLE POSTINGS A new solicitation has been posted that might be of interest. It’s called The Future of Work at the Human-Technology Frontier: Advancing Cognitive and Physical Capabilities” (https://nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=505528&org=NSF&sel_org=NSF&fro…) and is one of NSF’s “Ten Big Ideas.” For FY2018, there are two main themes: 1) Foundations for Augmenting Human Cognition 2) Embodied Intelligent Cognitive Assistants Letters of Intent are due April 16 and Full proposals are due June 4. Please take a look at the solicitation. Our sciences have a lot to say in this domain. Betty Tuller, Ph.D. Director, Program in Perception, Action, and Cognition National Science Foundation 2415 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22314 Tel: 703.292.7238 Fax: 703.292.9068 The PAC program has additional requirements for submission: http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=5686. A new Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide is now available at http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf18001<http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf16001>

1 0

PhD position in neuroscience available immediately (Italy/USA)
by Carlos Andres Mendez Guerrero March 12, 2018

March 12, 2018

*PhD Position in neuroscience available immediately* 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 (Ita), but he/she will be expected to spend a significant amount of time at the NIH in Bethesda (USA). For more details (salary, requirements, contact..) please visit the laboratory website: http://www.marcotamietto.com

1 0

Two open positions in circadian patterning of neural activity
by Meredith, Andrea March 6, 2018

March 6, 2018

Postdoctoral Positions Available in Electrophysiology and Imaging Two positions are available in the lab of Dr. Andrea Meredith, at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, to study the circadian patterning of neuronal activity. We are seeking a highly motivated team-players to contribute to our studies of the circadian regulation of intrinsic excitability and intracellular signaling in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, the brain's intrinsic 'clock.' One project is an NIH BRAIN Initiative<https://www.braininitiative.nih.gov/>-funded study involving high resolution imaging with novel FRET-based sensors to record rhythmic signals in SCN neurons and the circuit. Other projects involve deciphering the biophysical mechanisms that contribute to circadian regulation of membrane excitability by the large conductance Ca2+-activated BK channel and other ion channels (see Nature Neuroscience 9:1041<https://www.nature.com/articles/nn1740>, 2006; Nature Communications 7:10837<https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms10837>, 2016; and Journal of General Physiology 15:259<http://jgp.rupress.org/content/150/2/259.long>, 2018). The Meredith Lab (http://meredithlab.org) is focused on understanding the mechanisms that contribute to circadian regulation of membrane excitability and daily oscillations in action potential activity in the SCN circuit, using techniques such as voltage- and current-clamp, multi-electrode array recordings, imaging, molecular biology, transgenics, and in vivo telemetry. Requirements: We are seeking candidates with a PhD in neuroscience, biophysics, physiology, or other relevant field. Experience with electrophysiological recordings or imaging is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills (fluent in English) required. To apply: Please send by email to Dr. Andrea Meredith (ameredith(a)som.umaryland.edu<mailto:ameredith@som.umaryland.edu>) with: - your CV - a letter describing your research accomplishments, expertise, and career goals - contact information for three references The Department of Physiology (http://medschool.umaryland.edu/physiology) offers outstanding research and NIH-funded postdoctoral training opportunities. The University of Maryland School of Medicine, located in downtown Baltimore, is the oldest public medical school in the U.S. and the founding campus of the University of Maryland system. The School of Medicine ranks 6th among all 76 public medical schools. ___________________________________________________________ Andrea Meredith, PhD Associate Professor Dept. of Physiology and Program in Neuroscience University of Maryland School of Medicine 655 W. Baltimore Str. BRB 5-002 Baltimore, MD 21201 410-706-5991<tel:410-706-5991> office ameredith(a)som.umaryland.edu<mailto:ameredith@som.umaryland.edu> http://meredithlab.org<http://meredithlab.org/>

1 0

6th Baltic-Nordic Summer School on Neuroinformatics (BNNI 2018)
by Marja-Leena Linne March 6, 2018

March 6, 2018

6th Baltic-Nordic Summer School on Neuroinformatics (BNNI 2018) Understanding the Brain: from Neuroscience to Deep Learning Place: Ventspils University of Applied Sciences Inženieru 101, Ventspils Latvia Time: 11-13 June 2018 More information and applications at: web.lsmuni.lt/bnni2018/en<http://web.lsmuni.lt/bnni2018/en> Important dates: 2 April 2018: Application deadline 15 April 2018: Acceptance notification 11-13 June 2018: School We invite advanced master students, doctoral students, and postdoctoral researchers to participate in the BNNI 2018 to be held at the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Ventspils, Latvia in 11-13 June 2018. The course is interdisciplinary and covers modeling at different levels of organization of the brain. Additionally this year's training course is planned more diverse and will include also EEG/SEEG signal processing techniques, forward and inverse modeling of the brain and various aspects of deep learning algorithms. This school is the sixth in the series of the Baltic-Nordic Courses on Neuroinformatics (BNNI 2013 in Kaunas, Lithuania; BNNI 2014 in Tampere, Finland; BNNI 2015 in Tartu, Estonia; BNNI 2016 in Warsaw, Poland, BNNI 2017 in Kaunas, Lithuania). The target audience of the course will be advanced master students, doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers in biomedical and technology sciences, from medicine, biology, psychology, to mathematics, informatics, information technology, physics, chemistry, who would like to get an introduction to neuroinformatics and computational neuroscience. Some experience with programming and quantitative reasoning as well as strong interest in computational and mathematical modeling of the brain will be desirable but not necessary to benefit from the school. Last year we had participants from 14 countries all over the world! Faculty includes: Marja-Leena Linne, Tampere University of Technology, Finland; The Human Brain Project Ausra Saudargiene, Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, and Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania Bruce Graham, University of Stirling, UK Daniel Wojcik, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland Arnd Roth, University College London, UK Peter Jedlicka, NeuroScience Center, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany Gaute Einevoll, UiO Department of Physics The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Norway Radu Ranta, CRAN, University of Lorraine, France Louis Maillard, CHRU Hôpital central - Nancy, CRAN, University of Lorraine, France Janis Hofmanis, Smart Technology Research Center, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Ventspils, Latvia and others. Venue The lectures will be held at the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, Inženieru 101, Ventspils, Latvia. Practical arrangements There is a small tuition fee of 50 euros. The organizers will provide teaching materials, meals and coffee during the course. The participants are expected to cover their travel and health insurance expenses as well as lodging. Although Student accommodation will be available at a reduced cost. Ventspils University of Applied Sciences can provide a student dormitory rooms - 2 students per room, 2 rooms per block. One block costs 51 EUR (12,75 EUR for one person per night). We are looking forward to welcome you at the BNNI 2018 in Ventspils, Latvia!

1 0

CFP- Special issue on Robots and Smart Environments
by Amir Aly March 6, 2018

March 6, 2018

*Cognitive Systems Research (CSR) Journal* CALL FOR PAPERS **Apologies for cross posting ** We are happy to call for papers for the journal special issue: "*Social Cognitive Systems in Smart Environments: Approaches for Learning, Reasoning, and Adaptation*" *Webpage: **https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/call-for-papers/special-issue-social-cognitive-systems-in-smart-environment <https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/call-for-paper…> * <http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/hai2017_workshop/> *I. Aim and Scope * A “smart” environment incorporates intelligent systems (e.g., smart home, smart factory, smart city, smart car etc.) employing heterogeneous devices, such as: sensors, actuators, cameras, networks, and screens. Within such a smart environment, autonomous agents can take on an important mediating role between human users and the environment. This is particularly true if high-level cognitive functions and computational intelligence are employed to handle the uncertainty of the complex environment so as to allow agents to act appropriately within different contexts of interaction. Using robotic systems in smart environments opens the door to several socio-cognitive applications, such as: reducing cognitive load for individuals interacting with a smart environment, assisting the elderly and people with cognitive disabilities in mobility and daily tasks (which requires robots to learn the multimodal characteristics of human behavior and to spatially perceive the environment containing other smart objects to decide the best way to employ/manipulate them in order to successfully perform tasks), and developing a cloud-connected robot system to incrementally share knowledge between robots in different smart environments about the behavioral characteristics of human users in order to interact with them adaptively. To meet the requirements of these target applications, robots need to be able to learn how to use the capabilities of their smart environments to better address the needs of the human users. Industrial applications of such technologies include factories of the future and the digital eco-system within an autonomous car. This special issue aims to shed light on cutting edge lines of interdisciplinary research in cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and robotics covering basic research and applications. Recent advances and possible future research avenues on smart robots and environments would be discussed in detail in this journal special issue. *II. Potential Topics* Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to: - Cyber-physical systems in smart environments - 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 - Internet of things - Ambient assisted living - Infotainment in smart vehicles - Natural user interface design - Cloud robotics - Ubiquitous computing *III. Submission* Submissions to the special issue must include original research that has not been published nor submitted to other journals. Authors should prepare their manuscript according to the "Guide for Authors" available at the journal homepage: http://www.journals.elsevier.c om/cognitive-systems-research/. Papers should be submitted through the EVISE system: https://www.evise.com/evise/jrnl/cogsys. Authors should select "*VSI:Smart Environments"* as the article type during the submission process. *IV. Timline (Submission portal will be open on March 1, 2018)* - Deadline for paper submission: April 30, 2018 - First notification for authors: July 31, 2018 - Deadline for revised papers submission: September 30, 2018 - Final notification for authors: November 30, 2018 - Deadline for submission of camera-ready manuscripts: January 15, 2019 *V. Guest editors* Dr. Amir Aly, Ritsumeikan University, Japan (amir.aly(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp) Dr. Shashank Pathak,Visteon Corporation, Germany ( shashank.pathak(a)visteon.com) Dr. Sean Andrist, Microsoft Research, USA (sandrist(a)microsoft.com) Prof. Armando Tacchella, University of Genoa, Italy ( armando.tacchella(a)unige.it) ------ *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

1 0

NeuroBridges 2018 announcement
by Ahmed El Hady March 6, 2018

March 6, 2018

*/NeuroBridges 2018 Summer school , Cluny, France/* */( October 2nd - October 12th, 2017 )/* I would like to bring to your attention the *NeuroBridges 2018 Computational Neuroscience School*. <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html> NeuroBridges <https://www.facebook.com/NeuroBridges/>is a one-of-a-kind series of scientific meetings in brain research, which brings together Mediterranean and Middle Eastern scientists, in order to promote international scientific cooperation in system and computational neuroscience. A major goal of this school is to serve as a bridge between experimental and theoretical neuroscientists, addressing system-level questions. The organizers of NeuroBridges also believe that these scientific collaborations can lead to personal relations, which eventually may help alleviate the political distress in the Middle East. Following the success of NeuroBridges 2017 <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2017.html> school, NeuroBridges 2018 <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html> will be a nine day summer school <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html>, which will take place in Cluny, France. The school is organized by Ahmed El Hady (Princeton), David Hansel (CNRS) and Yonatan Loewenstein (Hebrew University). It will be comprised of lectures delivered by a group of leading neuroscientists, experimentalists as well as theoreticians, which will address the fundamental questions in contemporary neuroscience. In addition to the lectures, the students will work in groups on small research projects. The school is intended for graduate students and postdocs, primarily from the Middle East and the Mediterranean region, either working in their home countries or abroad. We will consider applicants with some background in applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering or physics, interested in theoretical brain and cognitive sciences. We will also consider those with biological or medical background given that they show proof of basic mathematical knowledge. The school will take place between October 2 and October 12, 2018 in Le Centre de Conférences Internationales de Cluny (CCIC). Cluny is a small medieval town in Burgundy, France, located about 400km southeast of Paris (accessible by fast train, TGV). The deadline for application is *May 31st, 2018 *and the following is the website including the link for the online application: http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2018.html For more information, please contact neurobridges2018(a)gmail.com <mailto:neurobridges2018@gmail.com>.

1 0

4th FUNCTIONAL ARCHITECTURE OF MEMORY (FAM) CONFERENCE
by Laura Montero March 5, 2018

March 5, 2018

*Dates May 23rd, 2018 to May 25th, 2018 * *Place LEIBNIZ INSTITUT FOR NEUROBIOLOGY, Magdeburg, Germany * About the Event The Fourth international conference on the FUNCTIONAL ARCHITECTURE OF MEMORY May 23th to 25th 2018 (Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg - Germany) is organized by Prof. Dr. M. Sauvage. The FAM conference aims at bringing new insights on today's major controversies in recognition memory by bridging human and animal memory function. Twenty of the world-leading experts on the medial temporal lobe and memory function will discuss findings obtained using behavioral, imaging, electrophysiological, mutagenesis and computational techniques. The conference will start by a 5min blitz session that attendants are welcome to contribute to, and a “speakers/students-only brainstorming session” takes place each day. The number of participants is limited to 100 (first-come first-served basis) and registration can be made at https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/philosophy/famconference/# FAM conference Speakers: Jozsef Csicsvari (IST, Austria) Emrah Düzel (DZNE, Germany) Paul Frankland (Sickkids Toronto, Canada) James Knierim (Johns Hopkins Univ., USA) Pierre Lavenex (Lauzanne univ., Switzerland) Stefan Leutgeb (UC San Diego, USA) Thomas McHugh (RIKEN, Japan) Shane OMara (Trinity College, Ireland) Charan Ranganath (UC Davis, USA) Magdalena Sauvage (LIN, Germany) Steven Siegelbaum (Columbia U, USA) Wendy Suzuki (New York University, USA) Clea Warburton (Bristol University, UK) Thomas Wolbers (DZNE, Germany) Menno Witter (Kavli Institute, Norway) Motoharu Yoshida (DZNE, Germany) Contact Laura Montero Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology Functional Architecture of Memory Dpt Brenneckestrasse, 6 39118 Magdeburg Germany Phone: +49-391-6263-94531 Email: <http://www.fens.org/News-Activities/Calendar/Meetings/2018/05/4th-FUNCTIONA…> 4thfamconference(a)gmail.com Website: https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/philosophy/famconference/#

1 0

Computational & Cognitive Neuroscience (CCN) Summer School -- DEADLINE EXTENSION TO MARCH 14
by Murray, John March 5, 2018

March 5, 2018

*** APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MARCH 14, 2018. *** We are pleased to announce the 8th Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience (CCN) Summer School which will take place June 26 — July 19, 2018, at Cold Spring Harbor Asia (CSHA) in Suzhou, China. Please distribute this announcement to your department and colleagues. The CCN summer school is a unique international summer school focusing on systems neuroscience and cognition from a computational and theoretical perspective. Lectures from leading international faculty in experimental, computational and theoretical neuroscience are tightly coupled with computational tutorials in a series of modules. Each module covers a core area, integrating experimental, theoretical and computational perspectives. The course aims to train talented and highly motivated graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from around the world. Applicants with quantitative (including Physics, Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science) or experimental backgrounds are welcome. The summer school also has the mission of training and integrating students from diverse academic, cultural and geographic backgrounds. The practical training includes learning Python-based approaches to programming, data analysis and modeling. Students work through tutorials designed with the faculty and then design, plan and complete a series of open-ended projects for each module. Course information is available on the CCN official website: http://www.ccnss.org/ Applications are being accepted now through the CSHA website: https://www.csh-asia.org/2018meetings/S-COSYNE.html The application deadline is March 14th, 2018. Course Directors: Xiao-Jing Wang (New York University) Zach Mainen (Champalimaud Neuroscience Program) Si Wu (Beijing Normal University) John D. Murray (Yale University) Eric DeWitt (Champalimaud Neuroscience Program) CCN 2018 Lecturers: Eric DeWitt (Champalimaud Research) Shaul Druckmann (Stanford) Jeff Erlich (NYU Shanghai) Birte Forstmann (U Amsterdam) David Foster (UC Berkeley) Julijana Gjorgjieva (MPI Brain Research) Michael Hausser (UCL) Alex Huth (UT Austin) Chris Honey (Johns Hopkins) Sukbin Lim (NYU Shanghai) Zach Mainen (Champalimaud Research) John Murray (Yale) Peggy Series (U Edinburgh) Maurice Smith (Harvard) Xiao-Jing Wang (NYU) Si Wu (Beijing Normal) Byron Yu (Carnegie Mellon) + more! Best regards, CCN SS Directors: Xiao-Jing Wang, Zach Mainen, Si Wu, John Murray, Eric DeWitt John D. Murray ----------------------------------------------- Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Yale University School of Medicine murraylab.yale.edu<http://murraylab.yale.edu/> -----------------------------------------------

1 0

CNS*2018 Abstract DEADLINE EXTENSION to March 12
by Sharon Crook March 2, 2018

March 2, 2018

As always, apologies for multiple posts. CNS*2018 Call for Abstracts DEADLINE EXTENSION Organization for Computational Neurosciences (OCNS) 27th Annual Meeting Seattle, USA July 13-18 Local Organizers: Christof Koch, Adrienne Fairhall, Eric Shea-Brown The main meeting begins the evening of Friday July 13 and runs through Monday July 16. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Friday July 13) and followed by two days of workshops (Tuesday July 17 and Wednesday July 18). Invited Keynote Speakers: Eve Marder, Brandeis University Nancy Kopell, Boston University Daniel Wolpert, University of Cambridge Rajesh Rao, University of Washington The abstract submission deadline has been extended to MARCH 12, 2018 at 11pm Pacific Time. This will be the final deadline for abstract submission. Note that one of the authors must register as sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission is possible. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Abstract Submission: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-abstract-submission Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mcid=form_243… For up-to-date conference information, please visit: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OCNS is the international member-based society for computational neuroscientists. Become a member to be eligible for travel awards and more. Visit our website for more information: http://www.cnsorg.org

1 0

[publication and call for dialog] IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems
by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer March 2, 2018

March 2, 2018

Dear colleagues, we are happy to announce the release of the latest issue of the IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems (open access). This is a biannual newsletter addressing the sciences of developmental and cognitive processes in natural and artificial organisms, from humans to robots, at the crossroads of cognitive science, developmental psychology, artificial intelligence, machine learning and neuroscience. It is available at: http://goo.gl/pA7WrH Featuring dialog: === "One developmental architecture to rule them all?" == Dialog initiated by Matthias Rolf, Lorijn Zaadnoordijk and Johan Kwisthout with responses from: Niels Taatgen, John Spencer, Gary Jones, Gerard Wolff, Clément Moulin-Frier and Paul Verschure == Topic: Humans have a unique capability to achieve and learn a wide diversity of skills of all kinds, from low-level sensorimotor skills to very abstract linguistic or mathematical skills. Is it possible to develop theories of how general cognitive architectures can display such a general flexibility for skill learning? This dialog adresses this question, and discusses whether and how it would be useful both epistemologically and in practice to aim towards the development of a “standard integrated cognitive architecture”, akin to “standard models” in physics, or whether focusing on simple and partial models should be a better approach. In particular, this question is discussed in the context of understanding development in infants, and of building developmental architectures, thus addressing the issue of architectures that not only learn, but that are adaptive themselves. Call for new dialog: === "Curiosity as Driver of Extreme Specialization in Humans" == Dialog initiated by Celeste Kidd == This dialog asks the question of why and how humans can be driven to extremely specialize. In particular, it proposes the hypothesis that curiosity may play a fundamental role in this process, and highlights many important open questions about how this could happen, and what are the actual mechanisms of curiosity-driven exploration and learning. Those of you interested in reacting to this dialog initiation are welcome to submit a response by May 30th, 2018. The length of each response must be between 600 and 800 words including references (contact pierre-yves.oudeyer(a)inria.fr) Let us remind you that all issues of the newsletter are all open-access and available at: https://goo.gl/ZjjZNz I wish you a stimulating reading! Best regards, Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, Editor of the IEEE CIS Newsletter on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Research director, Inria Head of Flowers project-team Inria and Ensta ParisTech, France http://www.pyoudeyer.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/pyoudeyer and Fabien Benureau Assistant Editor Inria Mnemosyne team http://fabien.benureau.com

1 0

Stanford University Job Opportunities: Postdoctoral Fellowship
by Christina Atkinson March 1, 2018

March 1, 2018

Stanford University’s Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences is seeking to hire a full time post-doctoral fellow for their Cognitive & Systems Neuroscience Laboratory. This lab is headed by Dr. Vinod Menon who has broad multidisciplinary expertise that spans several scientific disciplines and has published extensively on various aspects of human cognition and brain function. Explore our lab website for more information: http://med.stanford.edu/scsnl.html. POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF BRAIN NETWORKS Currently Available: The Stanford Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Laboratory invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in computational modeling of human brain imaging data using deep neural networks. The successful candidate will be involved in a multidisciplinary project that seeks to develop novel computational frameworks for robust identification of neurobiological signatures of psychiatric and neurological disorders combining deep learning and convolution networks and dynamic brain circuit analyses with task and resting-state fMRI. Clinical disorders currently under investigation include autism, ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, learning disabilities, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease. We seek talented and highly-motivated individuals with a strong background in at least one of these areas: deep learning algorithms and optimization (theory and practical implementations); computational modeling, statistical inference, and machine learning, especially as applied to fMRI and MRI data. The candidate will have access to multiple large datasets and state-of-the-art computational resources, including HPCs and GPGPUs. Please email a CV, statement of research interests and relevant background, and have three letters of reference sent to Drs. Vinod Menon and Aarthi Padmanabhan at scsnl.stanford+postdoc(a)gmail.com<mailto:scsnl.stanford@gmail.com> <mailto:scsnl.stanford@gmail.com>

1 0

7th International Summer School of Neuroengineering "Massimo Grattarola"
by Paolo Massobrio March 1, 2018

March 1, 2018

Call for applicants of the 7th International Summer School of Neuroengineering "Massimo Grattarola" Neurotechnologies and Computational Methods to Interact with the Brain The 7th International Summer School of Neuroengineering "Massimo Grattarola" aims to introduce computational and technological methods to researchers of different backgrounds (life sciences, physics, engineering) to interact with the brain. The first two days will deal with brain dynamics giving particular emphasis to the role of the connectivity and computational models of the brain at different level of abstraction, as well as hardware and software platforms to simulate such dynamics. During the 3rd day, the recent advancements for increasing the quality of the recordings and for delivering efficient stimulating protocols will be discussed. Finally, the last day will provide examples of neuroengineering paradigms for designing new neuroprostheses to interact with the brain and their clinical applications to increase the quality of life. A practical experimental session using high-density EEG set-up and multi-electrode arrays for in vitro/in vivo applications is foreseen. Dates: 18th-22nd June 2018 Location: Genova (Italy) Registration: Registrations will open during the first week of March. Participation is limited to 60 attendees (students, post-docs, .). Website: www.neuroengineering.eu <http://www.neuroengineering.eu> Poster session: Students attending the school will have the opportunity to present their results in a two-days poster session. Confirmed speakers: Miguel Nicolelis (Duke University), Shimon Marom (Technion Israel Institute of Technology), Matias Palva (Univ. Helsinki), Andreas Hierlemann (ETH), Tim Harris (Janelia Research Campus), Lucilla de Arcangelis (Univ. of Campania), Annalisa Bonfiglio (Univ. Cagliari), Sylvie Renaud (Bordeaux INP), Valentina Pasquale (Italian Institute of Technology), Michele Giugliano (Univ. Antwerp), Michele Migliore (CNR), Silvia Casarotto (Univ. Milano), Michela Chiappalone (Italian Institute of Technology), Stanisa Raspopovic (ETH). Best regards Paolo Massobrio _________________________________________________ Paolo Massobrio, PhD Assistant Professor of Bioengineering Neuroengineering and Bio-Nano Technology - NBT - Lab Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering - DIBRIS University of Genova Via Opera Pia 13, 16145, GENOVA, ITALY Phone: +39-010-3532761 Fax: +39-010-3532764 URL: <http://www.dibris.unige.it/> www.dibris.unige.it; <http://www.nbt.unige.it> www.nbt.unige.it E-mail: <mailto:paolo.massobrio@unige.it> paolo.massobrio(a)unige.it

1 0

Post-doctoral position in Computational Neuroscience, Moreno-Bote Lab, Barcelona, Spain
by Ruben Moreno Bote March 1, 2018

March 1, 2018

Post-doctoral position Computational Neuroscience, Moreno-Bote Lab University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain We are looking for strong post-doctoral candidates interested in joining the group of Theoretical Neuroscience of Rubén Moreno-Bote lab. We are looking for excellent post-doctoral candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background, ideally with knowledge of Neuroscience or Computational Neuroscience, and interested in theory and applications. The publication record of the candidate should be very strong in his/her respective discipline. The candidate will develop state of the art mathematical techniques to understand neuronal dynamics and will have access to multielectrode recording neural data. He/she could also be involved in the design of electrophysiology experiments through our collaborators. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona (http://www.barcelonaneuroscience.com) Financial support is provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format, a 1 page project in pdf format, and names and email addresses of 2 referees should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu Informal inquiries are welcome. DEADLINE: up to the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between September 2018 and January 2019 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella, Building 24, office 331 Ramon Trias Fargas, 24-27 08005 Barcelona, Spain http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote

1 0

Summer course: CAMP@Bangalore 2018 Announcement email
by U.S.Bhalla March 1, 2018

March 1, 2018

Subject:Course announcement: CAMP@Bangalore 2018 We would like to announce CAMP@Bangalore 2018 from 1-16 July 2018. Please see the course website at http://camp.ncbs.res.in/. CAMP @ Bangalore (Computational Approaches to Memory and Plasticity at NCBS, Bangalore) is a 16-day summer school on the theory and simulation of learning, memory and plasticity in the brain. The flavour of this year's CAMP is "Sequences in the brain". The course consists of 3 modules covering sub-cellular electrical models, micro-circuits and network models, detailed models with electrical and chemical components, and systems level models, all with an emphasis on learning, memory and plasticity. All modules will have their own hands-on projects. Students worldwide are encouraged to apply. Accommodation and food will be free for the selected students. There is no registration fee. Students are advised to obtain independent travel grants. Confirmed instructors include: Arvind Kumar (KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm) Charan Ranganath (University of California, Davis) Collins Assisi (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune) Dean Buonomano (University of California, Los Angeles) Moshe Abeles (Bar Ilan University, Israel) Rishikesh Narayanan (Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore) Robert Guetig (Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Germany) Sachin Deshmukh (Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru) Suhita Nadkarni (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune) Upinder Bhalla (National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bangalore) Course Organizers: Arvind Kumar (KTH Stockholm) Rishikesh Narayanan (IISc, Bangalore) Upinder Bhalla (NCBS, Bangalore)

1 0

Postdoc to study hippocampal information processing in Canavier lab
by Canavier, Carmen C. Feb. 28, 2018

Feb. 28, 2018

A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the computational neuroscience lab of Carmen Canavier in the School of Medicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. The position is to study cholinergic contributions to hippocampal information processing in close collaboration with electrophysiologist Sonia Gasparini. The successful candidate will construct a morphologically and biophysically realistic model of a hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neuron to explain the observed frequency selectivity of different dendritic regions for slow versus fast gamma band inputs. Some network modeling will also be required for the project. If interested, please apply, preferably by March 31st 2018 at https://www.lsuhsc.edu/Administration/hrm/CareerOpportunities/Home/Detail/1… The primary duties will involve linear and non-linear analyses, writing code, calibrating single neuron models, and generating predictions that lead to additional experiments. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science or a related field of study. The ideal candidate would have experience with the simulation package NEURON and some knowledge of the hippocampus. Familiarity with nonlinear dynamics, signal processing, and coding in C and or python in a Linux environment is also desirable. If you have questions, please email Dr. Canavier at ccanav(a)lsuhsc.edu. LSUHSC is an Equal Opportunity Employer for females, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

1 0

Postdoc, Deep Microscopy, Berlin
by Judkewitz, Benjamin Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

Postdoc position available at the Judkewitz Lab! Join our team of neuroscientists, engineers, biologists and physicists in Berlin. Your mission: develop deep brain microscopy techniques and boldly focus where no one has shaped wavefronts before. http://jlab.berlin/jobs

1 0

4-year fully-funded Ph.D. Position in Computational Neuroscience at the Donders Institute
by Bernhard Englitz Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

Dear List, please distribute the following position announcement to finishing M.Sc. students with strong skills in (computational) neuroscience interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. Thanks & best wishes, Bernhard Bernhard Englitz, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Neurophysiology Donders Centre for Neuroscience Faculty of Science, Radboud Universiteit Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Project : As a PhD Candidate you will work on a project entitled ‘Neural Mechanisms of Processing and Recognizing Complex, Statistical Sounds’. This project is funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) and will be conducted at Radboud University in Nijmegen. The main research question is how the brain represents and processes acoustic stimuli which are only defined on a statistical level. These stimuli have a high behavioural relevance, since many natural stimuli have this character. The PhD project will involve a combination of neural population recordings from multiple areas of the auditory and parietal cortex of behaving mice, and their subsequent data analysis. Individual cells will be identified using specific genetically modified mouse lines and matched optogenetic tools. The main outcome of the research will be an expansion of our knowledge of auditory processing, which may have far-reaching implications for the processing of sounds in hearing aids and smart phones. Scientific Environment : The Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour consists of three research centres, the Centre for Cognition, the Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging and the Centre for Neuroscience. It focuses on state-of-the-art cognitive neuroscience in a multidisciplinary approach, and offers excellent lab and neuroimaging facilities. The position will be hosted at the Neurophysiology department, which provides a high-quality neuroscience environment with facilities for chronic and non-chronic multi-channel recordings, imaging and computational modelling. The department’s research questions address issues in fundamental and applied research, and enable the interaction of theory and experimental work in a single location. The Donders Institute is an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community, and as such encourages applications from women and minorities. Radboud University offers a parental leave scheme and day care on campus. Qualifications : MSc degree in (computational) neuroscience, engineering or biology; experience with animal physiology, programming and data analysis; a proactive attitude, good communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team. Application Link : http://www.ru.nl/english/working-at/jobopportunities/details/details-vacatu… <http://www.ru.nl/english/working-at/jobopportunities/details/details-vacatu…> Closing Date of Call : 30.3.2018 Planned Starting Date : 1.9.2018

1 0

Postdoctoral Position in Systems Neurophysiology of Social Bonding in Rodents
by Liu, Robert C Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

Postdoctoral Position in Systems Neurophysiology of Social Bonding in Rodents Yerkes National Primate Research Center and the Department of Biology Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia The laboratories of Robert Liu, Gordon Berman and Larry Young at Emory University are accepting applications for a postdoctoral scientist working in a collaborative team to study pro-social interactions in rodents. The research combines recent advances in computational ethology (Berman et al, Interface, 2014) with in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics in socially interacting prairie voles (Amadei, Johnson et al, Nature, 2017), a premier rodent model for the formation of social bonds (Lim et al, Nature, 2004). The research aims to use behavioral and neurophysiological activity to build predictive models of social dynamics leading to a pair bond, and investigate the role that oxytocin plays in mediating these activities. PhD required. We are looking for a candidate who approaches neuroscience with a systems or circuit perspective and is interested in the neuroscience of social behavior. Training in any of the following areas would be viewed favorably: in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, computational data analysis, sensorimotor integration, reward and reinforcement. Emory University and the Yerkes National Primate Research Center have a rich, collaborative neuroscience community (http://biomed.emory.edu/PROGRAM_SITES/NS/) especially in the areas of translational social neuroscience (http://ctsn.emory.edu/) and computational neuroscience (http://compneurosci.college.emory.edu/) Research at Emory in the neurobiology of social behavior extends across many labs from the molecular level through the organismal level in animal models and humans, with a particular interest in the functions of oxytocin (http://www.oxytocin.emory.edu/) Ongoing efforts include both elucidating normal processes and ameliorating deficits found in human conditions, like autism spectrum disorder. To inquire or apply, please email robert.liu(a)emory.edu<mailto:robert.liu@emory.edu>. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue at least through March 31, or until the position is filled. Applications should include a CV, the names and full contact information of 3 references, and at least one representative publication. Emory University is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. References: Amadei EA*, Johnson ZV*, Kwon YJ, Shpiner AC, Saravanan V, Mays W, Ryan S, Walum H, Rainnie D, Young LJ, Liu RC (2017). Dynamic corticostriatal activity biases social bonding in monogamous female prairie voles, Nature, 546(7657):297-301. doi:10.1038/nature22381<http://www.nature.com/articles/doi:10.1038/nature22381> Berman GJ, Choi DM, Bialek W, Shaevitz JW (2014). Mapping the stereotyped behaviour of freely moving fruit flies. Journal of the Royal Society Interface, 11(99):20140672. doi:10.1098/rsif.2014.0672<http://doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2014.0672> Lim, MM, Wang Z, Olazábal DE, Ren X, Terwilliger EF, Young LJ (2004). Enhanced partner preference in promiscuous species by manipulating the expression of a single gene. Nature, 429(6993):754-757. doi:10.1038/nature02539<http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/nature02539> Robert C. Liu, PhD Associate Professor Department of Biology Emory University O. W. Rollins Research Center Rm 2131 1510 Clifton Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30322 USA Phone: +1 404-727-5274 Email: robert.liu(a)emory.edu<mailto:robert.liu@emory.edu> Lab Website<http://www.biology.emory.edu/research/Liu/html/index.php> ________________________________ This e-mail message (including any attachments) is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this message (including any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender by reply e-mail message and destroy all copies of the original message (including attachments).

1 0

Postdoctoral fellowships at the Gatsby Unit
by Maneesh Sahani Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

The Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit invites applications for one or more postdoctoral training fellowships in theoretical neuroscience and related areas. Neuroscience research in the unit focuses on the interpretation of neural data, population coding, perceptual processing, neural dynamics, neuromodulation, and learning. We have strong connections with experimental neuroscience and cognitive science groups at UCL (particularly in the Sainsbury-Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour with which the Unit shares a new purpose-built home) and at institutions around the world. The Unit also has significant interests across a range of areas in machine learning, and is perhaps unique in the way these fields are brought together. The fellowships are suitable for candidates with a doctoral degree and previous experience in relevant theoretical neuroscience or machine learning research. We are especially keen to recruit fellows with expertise in the modelling of perception or population-scale neural data. Full details of the fellowships, and information on how to apply, are available at http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/vacancies/TN%20Fellows/TN-2018.html The closing date for applications is 23rd Mar 2018. If you have questions unanswered by the website, please contact me by email or in person at Cosyne. -- Maneesh Sahani, Ph.D. Professor of Theoretical Neuroscience and Machine Learning, Director, Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit UCL, 25 Howland Street, London W1T 4JG

1 0

Post-doc in Neurophysiology of Attention at UCLA
by Bisley, James Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 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.

1 0

Computational Postdoc - Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory - Long Island, New York
by Engel, Tatiana Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

The Engel and Churchland labs in the Department of Neuroscience at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory invite applications from highly motivated candidates for a postdoctoral position working on a collaborative project between the two labs. The position is entirely computational and truly interdisciplinary with equal (50/50) effort in the Churchland (experimental) and Engel (computational) labs. The project’s goal is to unravel functional roles of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the decision-making microcircuit through computational analyses of large-scale neural activity recordings and biophysical circuit modeling. In particular, we will develop and deploy novel machine learning frameworks for discovering collective network dynamics from large-scale activity recordings in mice with genetically identified excitatory and inhibitory neurons. These data analyses will provide hard constraints for biophysical models of the decision-making microcircuit, which will be then inferred using deep learning methods. We are looking for theoretical/computational scientists to work at the exciting interface of systems neuroscience, machine learning, and biophysics, embedded within the computational and experimental labs. The postdoctoral scientist is expected to exhibit resourcefulness and independence, developing computational models of large-scale neural activity recordings with the goal to elucidate excitatory/inhibitory neural circuits underlying decision making. Interested candidates should e-mail their application to Tatiana Engel (engel(a)cshl.edu<mailto:engel@cshl.edu>) and Anne Churchland (churchland(a)cshl.edu<mailto:churchland@cshl.edu>) as a single pdf file with subject: Postdoc Application. The application file should include: (1) CV with the publication list, (2) a brief description of research interests, (3) contact information for three references. In addition, the candidates should upload their application online at http://cshl.peopleadmin.com/postings/13170 Position requirements: - PhD in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering or related quantitative discipline - Expertise in scientific programming, e.g., Python, Matlab, C/C++, CUDA - Expertise in statistics, data analyses, and/or machine learning - Experience with deep learning methods is a plus - Experience with database software is a plus - Track record of publications in scientific journals - Effective communication skills, both written and oral - Dedication and passion for solving hard scientific problems -- Tatiana Engel, PhD Assistant Professor Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, NY (+1) 408 409 3647

1 0

2 year postdoc : Graph Signal Processing at IMT Atlantique
by Nicolas Farrugia Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

IMT Atlantique has an opening for a fully-funded two-year postdoctoral fellowship open immediately and starting no later than June 2018, to work on Graph Signal Processing and potential applications to Neuroimaging. The host team is Br.A.In. (Brain-inspired Artificial Intelligence http://www.brain.bzh) and is in the Brest Campus. The call for the position can be downloaded here : http://recherche.telecom-bretagne.eu/brain/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/postd… Scientific context Several application domains rely on multivariate spatiotemporal signals such as transportation networks, energy network, social networks or neural networks. Under the natural assumption that the signal properties are related to the topology of the graph where they are supported, graph signal processing (GSP) offers algorithms that fruitfully leverage this relational structure, and can make inferences about these relationships when they are only partially observed. Developing GSP tools specifically intended to advance modeling and analytics of multivariate signals is a new, fertile area of investigation. In particular, the positionning of the Br.A.In. project regarding GSP is targetted towards the following issues: (1) finding optimal graph representations and adapting machine learning approaches accordingly, (2) generalizing GSP approaches to dynamic graphs in order to fully capture the spatiotemporal complexity of multivariate signals, and finally (3) developing new approaches to enhance the understanding and interpretability of machine learning and deep learning methods using metrics derived from GSP. We are seeking a candidate that will contribute to our research effort on GSP by proposing innovative theoretical approaches, or extensions to existing approaches, related to at least one of the aforementioned issues. Our main target application is the analysis, decoding and interpretability of Neuroimaging data (Electroencephalography EEG or functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging fMRI), but candidates with interest or background in other application domains are encouraged to apply as well. Details and requirements The present postdoctoral fellowship is funded by the Sustainable Attractivity Strategy of the Brittany Region, with the goal of attracting high profile junior researchers from all over the world, offering exceptional conditions for long-term academic development. IMT Atlantique is a public technological university focusing on the training of engineers at the MSc. level and junior researchers at the PhD level. Being a technological university, IMT Atlantique benefits from a advantageous status compared to french public universities. As such, we offer very competitive salary packages, with postdoc wages corresponing to a junior assistant professor level. Successful candidates will also benefits from 49 annual paid holidays, as well as access to multiple benefits from the institutions' union (such as campus activities or sea sports). In addition, living costs in the Brest bay area are exceptionally low, with a high quality of life, and the Brest campus of IMT Atlantique is ideally located at the sea front. The position is open immediately and must start no later than June 2018, for a duration of 24 months. The postdoc fellowship is accompanied with overheads for travel expenses covering (a) the participation to international conferences, (b) article processing charges for open-access publications and (c) acquisition of a computation server dedicated to the postdoc project. The postdoc fellowship will be fully devoted to his research projects, and may optionally (but will not be required to) contribute to teaching activities in machine learning, computer science, signal processing or electronical engineering. Candidates must have defended a Ph.D. related to machine learning or computer science, or signal/image processing. Candidates with a PhD in neuroimaging with solid programming skills and a strong interest for machine learning are also welcome to apply. An additional requirement pertains to the attractivity strategy related to the regional funding; in order to attract international applications, candidates must have spent a minimum 12 months outside France after June 2014. Please send your CV, contacts for two references, as well as a cover letter to nicolas.farrugia(a)imt-atlantique.fr . Nicolas Farrugia Associate professor IMT Atlantique - Department of electronics +33 (0) 2 29 00 16 53

1 0

Postdoc in computational neuroscience at University of Sheffield
by Hannes Saal Feb. 27, 2018

Feb. 27, 2018

Postdoc in computational neuroscience at the University of Sheffield Closing date: 26th March 2018 We are looking to recruit a Research Associate to work on the Wellcome Trust funded project Modelling synaptic and intrinsic plasticity in primate somatosensory cortex. In short, the project will investigate somatosensory plasticity in human cortex and specifically the effect of different learning rules on somatosensory representations. To this end, you will develop a computational framework that will simulate the effects of different plasticity rules on sensory cortical representations and make predictions that can be empirically tested using existing fMRI paradigms. The project involves close collaboration with partners at UCL and Oxford, who will gather empirical data using a state-of-the-art neuroimaging setup. This post is suitable for a candidate with a background in computational neuroscience, or a closely related discipline. The ideal candidate will have experience with the analysis and simulation of large-scale spiking neuron models, mathematical models of plasticity, and/or self-organizing systems. A significant part of the project will involve collaborating with our partner helping to guide empirical data collection. As such, a background in neuroscience is highly desirable, with knowledge of tactile processing, cortical plasticity, and/or neuroimaging especially preferred. For more info, please see http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BHY156/research-associate/ or contact Dr Hannes Saal (h.saal(a)sheffield.ac.uk) -- Dr Hannes P Saal Lecturer in Cognitive Science and Computational Modelling Active Touch Laboratory (co-director) Department of Psychology & Sheffield Robotics University of Sheffield Pam Liversidge Building F.05 Sheffield S1 3JD United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)114 222 6504 Web: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/psychology/staff/academic/hannes_saal

1 0

REMINDER: Abstract Submission for CNS*2018 closes March 5, 2018
by Sharon Crook Feb. 26, 2018

Feb. 26, 2018

Registration and abstract submission are open for CNS*2018 in Seattle, USA, July 13-18. The deadline for abstract submission is March 5, 2018. The main meeting begins on the evening of Friday July 13 and runs through Monday July 16. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Friday July 13) and followed by two days of workshops (Tuesday July 17 and Wednesday July 18). Invited Keynote Speakers: Eve Marder, Brandeis University Nancy Kopell, Boston University Daniel Wolpert, University of Cambridge Rajesh Rao, University of Washington Note that one of the authors must register as sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission is possible. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Abstract Submission: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-abstract-submission Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mcid=form_243… For up-to-date conference information, please visit: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018 ---------------------------------------- OCNS is the international member-based society for computational neuroscientists. Become a member to be eligible for travel awards and more. Visit our website for more information: http://www.cnsorg.org.

1 0

Post-doctoral position in machine learning for computational psychiatry at the University of Munich (LMU)
by Moritz Grosse-Wentrup Feb. 26, 2018

Feb. 26, 2018

We are seeking a highly creative and motivated post-doctoral researcher to work at the intersection of machine learning and computational psychiatry. The position will be based in the group of Moritz Grosse-Wentrup in the Department of Statistics [1]. The successful candidate will closely interact with the group of Nikolaos Koutsouleris in the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy [2]. To apply, you should have a strong passion for developing and employing machine learning methods that make a difference in patients' lives. Also, you should have (or be about to obtain) a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Information Engineering, Psychology/Psychiatry (with a strong analytical background), or a related field. You should have an excellent track record in machine learning or data science, which is backed up by publications in major journals or papers at top conferences. Prior experience in psychology or psychiatry would be advantageous but is not a strict requirement. You need to be fluent in written and spoken German. Your job duties include . performing independent research at the intersection of machine learning and computational psychiatry, . teaching courses and seminars to students in statistics and computer science, . and contributing to an interdisciplinary grant proposal on machine learning for computational psychiatry. Salary is according to TV-L E13 (100%) [3]. Part-Time employment is possible. The initial appointment will be for one year, with a potential extension contingent on funding. The starting date is flexible. Screening of applications will commence on March 18, but we will consider applications until the position is filled. The University of Munich is one of Europe's premier academic and research institutions [4]. The recently established elite graduate program in Data Science [5] bundles research in data science across various institutes and attracts excellent students from all over the world. Besides, Munich is a beautiful metropolis with high recreational value. Your application should include a cover letter (~one page), a CV, and contact information of at least two referees. Please submit your application documents (as one PDF file) to mgw(a)stat.uni-muenchen.de. We particularly welcome applications by female candidates. Disabled applicants will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants. If you have any questions before submitting your application, please contact Prof. Dr. Moritz Grosse-Wentrup Department of Statistics Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Ludwigstr. 33, 80539 München, Germany Phone: +49-89-2180-3847 mgw(a)stat.uni-muenchen.de Links: [1] http://www.datascience.statistik.uni-muenchen.de [2] http://www.klinikum.uni-muenchen.de/Klinik-und-Poliklinik-fuer-Psychiatrie-… [3] http://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/tv-l/west/ [4] https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/lmu-munich [5] http://www.m-datascience.mathematik-informatik-statistik.uni-muenchen.de

1 0

PhD student/postdoc in Sensory and Behavioral Neuroscience
by Gjorgjieva, Julijana Feb. 25, 2018

Feb. 25, 2018

The labs of Julijana Gjorgjieva (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany) and Ilona Grunwald Kadow at the TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Germany invite applications for a fully-funded position (Postdoc or PhD student). We are looking for highly-motivated individuals with a strong quantitative background (in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or related fields), experience in programming and data analysis, and a desire to develop cutting-edge experimental techniques. Previous background in neuroscience, imaging or behavioral analysis is a plus! Julijana will be at Cosyne (March 1-7) so please get in touch to discuss details. The project will examine the neural basis of need and effort-based decision-making in a collaboration between the Gjorgjieva lab, which develops theoretical models of neural circuit processing, and the Grunwald Kadow lab, which studies neural circuits underlying sensory processing and decision making in animal models. The project aims to uncover circuit principles and behavioral readouts of motivation, persistence, and value perception as a function of internal state or experience (e.g. hunger). In particular, the Grunwald Kadow lab is collecting rich data sets of behavioral trajectories of single Drosophila flies as well as functional imaging data (i.e. multiphoton and light-sheet) of neuronal populations (e.g. modulatory neurons). The project will aim to develop advanced analysis techniques that extract key statistical features of the behavioral trajectories and imaging data, and build mathematical models that reproduce the data and make new predictions to be further tested experimentally. By combining behaviour, genetics and imaging, we will also develop neural circuit models that involve several brain areas, including sensory brain areas and higher cognitive regions of the fly brain (i.e. mushroom body). References: S. Sayin J. Gjorgjieva, I. C. Grunwald Kadow (2018). A neural circuit arbitrates between perseverance and reward in hungry Drosophila. BioRxiv doi.org/10.1101/259119<http://doi.org/10.1101/259119> J. Gjorgjieva, G. Drion and E. Marder (2016). Computational implications of biophysical diversity and multiple timescales in neurons and synapses for circuit performance. Curr Opin Neurobiol 37:44-52. Lewis L, Siju KP, Aso Y, Friedrich AB, Bulteel AJB, Rubin GM, Grunwald Kadow IC (2015). A higher brain circuit for immediate integration of conflicting sensory information in Drosophila. Current Biology PMID: 26299514, doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.07.015 Application: The position will be based at the Technical University of Munich, with frequent visits to the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, two of the most exciting and international cities in Germany. Recommended application deadline: March 20, 2018. Applicants will be considered until the position is filled. For further information please visit: http://www.cns.wzw.tum.de and http://www.neuro.wzw.tum.de or email gjorgjieva(a)brain.mpg.de and ilona.grunwald(a)tum.de. To apply, please email the following to: neuro(a)wzw.tum.de (ref. GGK application) 1. A curriculum vitae 2. A letter of motivation explaining your scientific interests, your strengths when working on a problem, why us etc. 3. Contact details for 2 referees 4. A written sample of scientific research, e.g. a manuscript, thesis, or code etc. ----------------------------------------- Julijana Gjorgjieva, PhD Research Group Leader Max Planck Institute for Brain Research Max-von-Laue-Str. 4, Frankfurt Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Technical University of Munich, WZW Freising office: +49 69 850033 3600 http://cns.wzw.tum.de

1 0

Postdoctoral Neuroimaging Fellowship
by Stacie Warren Feb. 24, 2018

Feb. 24, 2018

Dear Colleagues, The Clinical Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Program directed by Stacie L. Warren, PhD, and Tilman Schulte, PhD, at Palo Alto University is seeking a neuroimaging postdoctoral scholar. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a range of cognitive and affective studies that focus on executive function, emotion regulation, stress responsivity, reward processing, and aging on neural circuitry. Populations of interest include healthy adults, adults with or at risk for developing psychopathology, and neurological disorders. The postdoctoral fellow’s primary responsibility is to analyze neuroimaging data (resting-state and task-based fMRI) and to develop and apply novel data analysis techniques. Additionally, Drs. Warren and Schulte are committed to fostering the postdoctoral scholar’s research independence through first-authored manuscript writing and grant preparation. The start date of the position is as soon as possible, but no later than August 1, 2018. JOB DESCRIPTION Essential Functions - Analyzing neuroimaging data - Developing and implementing statistical/mathematical modeling (e.g., machine learning algorithms) to characterize high-dimensional datasets - Improving software/scripts that implement algorithms for data quality control, preprocessing, analysis, and management - Manuscript development Qualifications - PhD in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computational neuroscience, bioinformatics, or a related field by the time of appointment - Strong background in quantitative analysis - Proficiency with at least one neuroimaging analysis software package (e.g., FSL, SPM, Freesurfer, AFNI, etc.) - Proficiency in programming (e.g., Matlab, Python, C/C++, java) and/or shell scripting - Proficiency with Linux OS and file system - Experience with any of the following: signal and image processing, machine learning, statistical/mathematical modeling - Excellent analytical, interpersonal, organizational, and spoken/written English communication skills are expected - A two-year commitment is required This is a full-time position with a competitive salary and benefits. *To apply, send your CV (including 3 academic references), and a cover letter stating your interests and qualifications to **swarren(a)paloaltou.edu* <swarren(a)paloaltou.edu>*.* Review of applications will begin immediately. -- Stacie L. Warren, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program Palo Alto University 1791 Arastradero Rd. Palo Alto, CA 94304 email: swarren(a)paloaltou.edu <staciewarren3(a)gmail.com>

1 0

Sense 2 Synapse conference 2018, May 12th, The Rockefeller University, New York City, Registration open
by Christoph Kirst Feb. 24, 2018

Feb. 24, 2018

Dear Neuroscientists, We would like to invite you to join us for this year's*Sense 2 Synapse* which will be held on*Saturday, May 12th, 2018* in the Carson Family Auditorium at *The Rockefeller University, New York City.* The conference is an annual event for scientists working on the biology of sensory transduction, subsequent neural processing and perception. The conference will be free this year but you will be asked to confirm your participation a week before the event. We have a outstanding list of key-note speakers: *Maria Neimark Geffen* (University of Pennsylvania) *Alipasha Vaziri* (The Rockefeller University) *Nathaniel Sawtell *(Columbia University) *Eve Marder* (Brandeis University) We will complement the program by 8 talks from graduate students and postdocs selected from abstract submissions and a poster session. More information can be found on our website: http://sense2synapse.com and you can register here: https://sites.google.com/view/sense2synapse2018/registration_1?authuser=0 Join us for a great day of science, discussions and nice food! The organizing team, Christoph Kirst Florian Berger Ben Urban Kanaka Rajan Jeremie Barral -- Christoph Kirst Fellow for Physics and Biology Center for Theoretical Studies and Kavli Physics Fellow Kavli Neural Systems Institute The Rockefeller University 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 USA +1 212 327 8835 :: ckirst(a)rockefeller.edu

1 0

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote, Barcelona, Spain
by Ruben Moreno Bote Feb. 22, 2018

Feb. 22, 2018

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote Lab Center for Brain and Cognition, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain 1 fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote in the Center for Brain and Cognition at the University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. We are looking for excellent candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background, ideally with knowledge of Neuroscience or Computational Neuroscience, and interested in theory and applications. We will also consider candidates with Psychology background with strong mathematical skills and interested in modeling. The candidate will develop state of the art mathematical techniques and models to understand neuronal dynamics and coding and will have access to multielectrode recording neural data. He/she could also be involved in the design of monkey and human behavioral experiments and the development of models of visual perception, decision making and working memory. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (https://www.upf.edu/web/ruben-moreno-bote) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona (http://www.barcelonaneuroscience.com) Financial support is provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format and an extract of grades for degree and master studies should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu DEADLINE: until the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between September 2018 and January 2019 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella, Building 24, office 331 Ramon Trias Fargas, 24-27 08005 Barcelona, Spain http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote

1 0

Seeking Grad students --Fall 2018
by Stephen Jose Hanson Feb. 22, 2018

Feb. 22, 2018

Seeking Cognitive and/or Computational Neuroscience Graduate Students Accepting applications Fall 2018. Rutgers University. We are seeking graduate students interested in the study of cognitive processes (e.g, memory, attention, language, category learning, Neural Networks) using neuroimaging techniques and computational modeling (Deep Learning). Our lab is focused on understanding the dynamics underlying brain response during rest (resting state) and during the performance of cognitive tasks. Within this overall framework, we have conducted research with both neurotypical and clinical populations (e.g., addiction, ASD, GAD), and have conducted studies focused on memory, language processing, preference decisions, face processing, and event perception. Our lab was jointly involved in the development of MVPA as well as IMaGES and other brain connectivity methods (lab has been continuously funded by NSF, McDonnell Foundation and NIH). Dr. SJ Hanson (Psychology, RUBIC) and Dr. C Hanson (CMBN, RUBIC) directs the lab and participates in both the Psychology graduate program and the Behavioral Neuroscience program. Dr. SJ Hanson is also Director of the Rutgers University Brain Imaging Center (RUBIC http://rubic.rutgers.edu) RUBIC houses a Siemens 3T Trio MR scanner to collect MR data and a variety of resources are available to complete any MR neuroimaging study. The lab also has a compute cluster with dual P100 GPUs as well as access to larger clusters available on various campuses. The campus is well serviced by train, subway, and bus service and is surrounded by a diversity of shops and restaurants. Manhattan is a twenty minute train ride from the Newark Penn Station and offers world class cultural and entertainment opportunities. For further inquiry or arrange a visit to our lab and RUBIC please send email to jose(a)rubic.rutgers.edu

1 0

Workshop: Dynamics of learning and computations in neuronal circuits, June 27-29, 2018, Göttingen
by farzad Feb. 22, 2018

Feb. 22, 2018

1 0

funded postdoc positions: mechanisms of perception
by Haider, Bilal Feb. 22, 2018

Feb. 22, 2018

Postdoctoral position: Synaptic mechanisms controlling perception The Haider Lab<haider.gatech.edu> in the Dept. of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Georgia Tech & Emory University seeks a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral fellow for a 3-year funded project examining synaptic and network mechanisms supporting sensory perception. The project offers significant opportunity to learn cutting-edge research techniques in vivo, including neural population recording with high-density silicon electrodes, optogenetic circuit manipulation, and whole-cell patch-clamp recording in mice performing visual behaviors. The ideal candidate has expertise in 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 3 years, pending satisfactory performance upon annual review. We are enthusiastic to form a diverse, international research group. All candidates will be mentored to obtain independent funding as part of their career development. There is a strong, multidisciplinary concentration of labs focusing on Neuroscience @ GT<http://neuro.gatech.edu/> and at Emory<http://biomed.emory.edu/PROGRAM_SITES/NS/>. Atlanta is vibrant, green, 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 these materials to bilal.haider(a)bme.gatech.edu<mailto:bilal.haider@bme.gatech.edu>. The position is available starting March 2018. The Wallace H. Coulter Dept. of Biomedical Engineering<https://www.bme.gatech.edu/> at Georgia Tech and Emory University is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. The Department is a unique enterprise, spanning two of the top Engineering and Medical institutes in the country. This environment offers unparalleled facilities and resources for the pursuit of understanding neural circuits and their relationship to behavior and neurological dysfunction. Further information and recent lab publications can be found at haider.gatech.edu<file:///C:/Users/bilal/Dropbox/Docs/GTech%20Docs/haider.gatech.edu> Thank you 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>

1 0

MODVIS 2018 - call for papers
by Yalda Mohsenzadeh Feb. 21, 2018

Feb. 21, 2018

We are pleased to announce that Eero Simoncelli (NYU, HHMI) will be keynote speaker at the 7th annual VSS satellite workshop on Computational and Mathematical Models in Vision (MODVIS). MODVIS 2018 will be held May 16-18, at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida (USA), immediately preceding the annual meeting of the Vision Sciences Society. Submissions consist of single-page extended abstracts that may contain figures and equations, which will be published on the Purdue e-Pubs system. Abstract submission will open on January 8th, 2017, and close on March 4th. For complete details, please visit the MODVIS web site at https://www.conf.purdue.edu/modvis/. on behalf of the MODVIS organizing committee: Yalda Mohsenzadeh (MIT) Jeff Mulligan (NASA Ames Research Center) Zygmunt Pizlo (UC Irvine) Anne Sereno (Purdue University) Qasim Zaidi (SUNY College of Optometry) Michael Rudd (University of Washington)

1 0

Valentino Braitenberg Award for Computational Neuroscience - Call for Nominations
by Alexandra Stein Feb. 21, 2018

Feb. 21, 2018

Dear Colleagues, The Bernstein Association for Computational Neuroscience invites nominations for the Valentino Braitenberg Award for Computational Neuroscience. The Bernstein Association for Computational Neuroscience presents the award biennially to a scientist in recognition of outstanding research that contributes to the understanding of the functioning of the brain. The major criterion for the award is the impact or potential impact of the recipient's research on the field of brain science. In the spirit of Valentino Braitenberg's own research, special emphasis is given to theoretical studies elucidating the functional implications of brain structures and their neuronal network dynamics. The awardee receives €5.000 prize money, donated by the Autonome Provinz Bozen Südtirol, as well as an invitation to the Bernstein Conference 2018 (including registration fee, travel- and accommodation expenses). The award will be presented together with a Golden Neuron pin in a special award ceremony at the Bernstein Conference, followed by a lecture of the Braitenberg Awardee. Nominations may be submitted by scientists working in the field of computational neuroscience and should include the following documents: - One-page laudation, in which the scientific work of the candidate is honored with regard to the award criteria - CV and list of publications Deadline for nominations is April 30, 2018 by email to a.stein(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:a.stein@fz-juelich.de> Please note that self-nominations are not permitted. The call for nominations can be found under the following URL: www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-conference/2018/braitenberg_award<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-conference/2018/braitenberg_award> For inquiries please contact a.stein(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:a.stein@fz-juelich.de>. Best regards, Alexandra Stein -- Dr. Alexandra Stein Head of Bernstein Coordination Site Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9583 mobile: (+49) 0151 67114645 mail: a.stein(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:a.stein@fz-juelich.de> web: www.bernstein-network.de<http://www.bernstein-network.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany YouTube: Bernstein TV Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

CFP- ACM-THRI Special Issue on Representation Learning for Human and Robot Cognition
by Amir Aly Feb. 21, 2018

Feb. 21, 2018

*ACM Transactions on Human-Robot Interaction (T-HRI) * CALL FOR PAPERS **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: July 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

1 0

PhD Opening - TEMPORAL NETWORKS: FROM NETWORK THEORY TO BRAIN SCIENCE AND NEUROLOGY
by Demian Battaglia Feb. 20, 2018

Feb. 20, 2018

We are seeking for excellent and motivated candidates for a PhD project based at Aix-Marseille University (AMU, southern France) focusing on: TEMPORAL NETWORKS: FROM NETWORK THEORY TO BRAIN SCIENCE AND NEUROLOGY The student will be jointly directed by Alain Barrat (AMU, Center for Theoretical Physics) and Demian Battaglia (AMU, Institute for Systems Neuroscience). The project, with a strong interdisciplinary component, aims at developing new techniques for the extraction and analysis of time-dependent networks of functional connectivity, based on time-series of neural activity, and, in particular, of human intracranial recordings during resting state, task conditions and stimulation. Mean-field whole brain models may also be used to explore the link between Functional Connectivity Dynamics and the underlying collective thalamocortical dynamics. Any application must be formally submitted on a devoted Web Portal: https://doc2amu.univ-amu.fr/en/temporal-networks-from-network-theory-to-bra… DEADLINE: April 9th, 2018 at 23:59 (Paris Time) The selection will occur through a TWO-STEPS EVALUATION, involving a first pre-selection (2 May 2018) and then a competitive oral examination of the retained applicants (31 May - 1 June 2018). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: - You must be in the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of your research career (career breaks excluded) - You must be at the time of recruitment, in possession/or finalizing the master degree or equivalent - You must be available to engage in the programme at the starting date (October 1st, 2018) - At the time of recruitment, not to have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the reference date (October 1st, 2018) The fellowship of the successful PhD candidate will be co-funded by the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND action within the H2020 Research and Innovation programme of the European Union. Within this programme, the PhD fellows will sign a three-year work contract with numerous advantages: - PhD fellowships above that of a standard French PhD contract (approximately 1625€/month net) - A 500€ travel allowance per year for the fellows to travel between Marseille and their place of origin. - Approx 10’000 € financial support for international research training, conferences and research costs - Tailored training and personalised mentoring within the excellence graduate schools of Aix-Marseille University (NEUROSCHOOL in Neuroscience and CENTURI in Physics of complex living systems) Doctoral fellows will also benefit from support in the administrative procedures, reserved rooms in university housing, several activities to promote integration in the local student life and cultural activities, French language courses covered by the fellowship, etc. For any inquiry feel free to contact us: Demian Battaglia (demian.battaglia(a)univ-amu.fr) Alain Barrat (alain.barrat(a)cpt.univ-mrs.fr)

1 0

Information Theory Tutorial
by James V Stone Feb. 20, 2018

Feb. 20, 2018

For those interested in a gentle introduction to information theory, please see: Information Theory: A Tutorial Introduction by James V Stone Abstract Shannon's mathematical theory of communication defines fundamental limits on how much information can be transmitted between the different components of any man-made or biological system. This paper is an informal but rigorous introduction to the main ideas implicit in Shannon's theory. An annotated reading list is provided for further reading. A pdf file of the article can be downloaded from the Cornell University Library archive: https://arxiv.org/abs/1802.05968 Comments and corrections welcome. regards, James V Stone -- Dr James V Stone Honorary Reader, Sheffield University, UK. http://jim-stone.staff.shef.ac.uk/BookBayes2012/books_by_jv_stone/index.html

1 0

Carolina Neurostimulation Conference - May 21-23, 2018, Chapel Hill NC
by Sankar Alagapan Feb. 20, 2018

Feb. 20, 2018

Dear Colleagues, It is with great pleasure that we invite you to participate in the 1st Carolina Neurostimulation Conference (CNC) to be held *May 21-23, 2018 in Chapel Hill, NC, USA*. This is a premier conference for those working to advance our understanding of dynamics of the brain, body, and behavior, investigating the response to stimulation, and translating discoveries into clinical applications. Hosted by the Carolina Center for Neurostimulation <http://www.carolinaneurostimulation.org/>, CNC serves as a platform for networking for all researchers and specialists and exchanging ideas about the latest discoveries and innovations in brain stimulation and clinical treatments. We have a great lineup of speakers including keynotes from *Dr. Sarah Lisanby (NIH) *and* Dr. Kaspar Schindler (Inselspital)*. Central topics for discussion and presentations include TMS, tACS, tDCS, and methods such as modeling, imaging, analysis, and devices. * ------------------------------ * *Registration:* Please register at the link provided here <http://www.neurostimcarolina.org/registration.html> . The deadline for Registration is *May 1st 2018* Regular (Faculty, Postdocs, Industry Professionals) $165 Students (Graduate, Undergraduate) $95 UNC Members *(Registration required)* Free For a full program, and information regarding registration, travel, and accommodations please visit our conference website <http://www.neurostimcarolina.org/>. Like us on Facebook <http://www.facebook.com/NeurostimCarolina/> for updates. * ------------------------------ * *Abstract Submission for Posters:* In addition to attending the plenary sessions, registrants are invited to participate in the conference’s poster session. Original contributions addressing theory, research, practice, and training/education issues, in any areas of neuromodulation and brain network dynamics are welcome. The deadline for abstract submission is *March 15th 2018.* Authors will be notified of acceptance in the first week of April. *Please follow the guidelines for the submission of your abstract.* · Max 500 words and 1 page including title, author(s), affiliation(s), and main body. · Structure: Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusions (References and Funding) · File format: single PDF file converted from the provided template <http://www.neurostimcarolina.org/abstract.html> · Email us to submit your abstract (neurostimulation(a)unc.edu) * ------------------------------ * *Travel Awards for Trainees:* We have funds allocated for trainee travel awards. All trainees (undergraduate students, graduate students, post docs, research associates) who will be presenting posters at the conference are eligible for travel awards. To apply for a travel award please complete the form in this link <http://www.neurostimcarolina.org/abstract.html> and email us at neurostimulation(a)unc.edu along with your CV. Please note that you must attend the conference and present your poster to receive the travel award. The deadline for Travel Awards is *March 15th 2018* * ------------------------------ * *Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Workshop:* Trainees and conference attendees are encouraged to attend the preliminary neurostimulation workshop on May 21st, 2018. This one-day innovative hands-on transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) workshop will be taught by Dr. Flavio Frohlich. The workshop will focus on transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with an exciting overview of theory, research, and methods. Click here <http://www.neurostimcarolina.org/workshop.html> for registration information. When completing registration, please be sure to provide feedback regarding your current knowledge of TES as well as some questions or techniques you are interested in. We want this course to be as interactive as possible. Lunch and beverages will be provided. * ------------------------------ * *About the Carolina Center for Neurostimulation:* The Carolina Center for Neurostimulation <http://www.carolinaneurostimulation.org/> is part of the Department of Psychiatry at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is directed by Dr. Flavio Frohlich. Established in 2017, the Center seeks to revolutionize psychiatry and neurology by studying the dynamics of brain, body, and behavior, investigating the response to stimulation, and translating discoveries into clinical treatments.

1 0

[Call for postdoc application] Automated discovery of physico-chemical structures with intrinsically motivated deep learning algorithms
by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer Feb. 20, 2018

Feb. 20, 2018

Call for postdoc application: Automated discovery of physico-chemical structures with intrinsically motivated deep learning algorithms Project Team Inria: Flowers, Inria Bordeaux, https://flowers.inria.fr Contact: Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, pierre-yves.oudeyer(a)inria.fr Deadline for applying: 19th april 2018 How to apply: send email to PY Oudeyer and post application to https://jobs.inria.fr/public/classic/fr/offres/2018-00413 Duration: 16 months Scientific context: Intrinsically motivated goal exploration algorithms enable machines to discover repertoires of action policies that produce a diversity of effects in complex environments. In robotics, these exploration algorithms have been shown to allow real world robots to acquire skills such as tool use in high-dimensional continuous state and action spaces (e.g. Baranes and Oudeyer, 2013; Forestier et al., 2017). An example is the Poppy/Explauto experiment with a humanoid robot learning to use tools in a few hours, which obtained the 2nd position in the demonstration competition at NIPS 2016 (See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOLAwD4ZTW0 , Forestier et al., 2016). In other domains such as chemistry and physics, they open the possibility to automate the discovery of novel chemical or physical structures produced by complex dynamical systems (e.g. Grizou, Points et al., 2017) However, they have so far assumed that self-generated goals are sampled in a specifically engineered feature space, limiting their autonomy. Recent work has shown how unsupervised deep learning approaches could be used to learn goal space representations (e.g. Péré et al., 2018), but they have focused on goals represented as static target configurations of the environment in robotics sensorimotor spaces. In this project, we will study how these new families of machine learning algorithms can be extended and used for automated discovery of behaviours of dynamical systems in physics/chemistry, through exploration of their parameter space, and when these behaviours are perceived through raw sensors (e.g. pixels of images). Web site of Flowers Lab: https://flowers.inria.fr Post-doctoral researcher work description The work will begin by a familiarization with algorithms for intrinsically motivated exploration with unsupervised learning of goal spaces developed in the team. Then, a few interesting numerical/simulation models of physical/chemical phenomena, associated to rich behavioral patterns (such as Turing-like reaction-diffusion models or oil droplet models), will be selected as a basis for developing and experimenting updates of existing exploration and learning algorithms. These algorithmic updates will focus in particular on the use of recurrent neural networks to learn goal spaces that can encode dynamical phenomena. Several algorithmic implementations will be compared, e.g. using several techniques for encoding times series as goal spaces, and compared using various information theoretic measures of the diversity of discovered behaviours in the target dynamical systems. It will be also possible to test these algorithmic updates in more traditional (simulated) sensorimotor learning problems, using standard benchmarks of the literature (e.g. Open Gym environments or Minecraft/Malmo). Experiments will possibly extend the DeepExplauto open-source library developed in the team, as well as standard Deep Learning libraries for the algorithms. Required knowledge and background: Candidates should have a strong expertise in at least one of these areas: - Experience with Deep Learning algorithms (theory and practical implementations) - Stochastic optimization, black-box optimization - Intrinsically motivated exploration algorithms Knowledge and competence in physics/chemical modelling would be welcome. Other requirements: - strong skills in mathematics, statistical inference, machine learning - Advanced programming skills in script languages like python - Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary project References : Baranes, A., & Oudeyer, P. Y. (2013). Active learning of inverse models with intrinsically motivated goal exploration in robots. Robotics and Autonomous Systems, 61(1), 49-73. Forestier, S., Mollard, Y., Caselli, D., & Oudeyer, P. Y. (2016). Autonomous exploration, active learning and human guidance with open-source Poppy humanoid robot platform and Explauto library. In The Thirtieth Annual Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NIPS 2016). Grizou, J., Point, L. and the Cronin lab (2017) Tutorial on “Developmental robotics in a chemistry lab », https://croningp.github.io/tutorial_icdl_epirob_2017/. Péré, A., Forestier, S., Oudeyer, P-Y. (2018) Unsupervised learning of goal spaces for intrinsically motivated goal exploration, in proceedings of ICLR 2018. Points, L. J., Taylor, J. W., Grizou, J., Donkers, K., & Cronin, L. (2018). Artificial intelligence exploration of unstable protocells leads to predictable properties and discovery of collective behavior. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 201711089. LeCun, Y., Bengio, Y., & Hinton, G. (2015). Deep learning. Nature, 521(7553), 436-444. Keywords: deep learning; intrinsically motivated exploration; unsupervised learning; automated discovery; complex systems; dynamical systems Pierre-Yves Oudeyer Research director, Flowers lab Inria and Ensta ParisTech, France http://www.pyoudeyer.com

1 0

Hand, Brain, and Technology
by Sliman Bensmaia Feb. 20, 2018

Feb. 20, 2018

Call for abstracts Hand, Brain, and Technology August 26-31, 2018 Monte Verita, Switzerland Submission deadline: April 15, 2018 The hand is our primary means to interact with objects and endows us with effortless versatility in these interactions. In the second Hand, Brain, and Technology conference, we focus on the sensory aspect of hand function and its neural basis. We also feature efforts to restore somatosensation in a variety of clinical contexts, including amputation, spinal cord injury, and stroke. Attendance is limited to 100 participants. If you are interested in presenting a short talk or poster, please visit http://www.relab.ethz.ch/hbt2018/abstract-submission.html for instructions. For more information, including the list of speakers, please visit http://www.relab.ethz.ch/hbt2018. … -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203

1 0

Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon 2018
by Yiyin Zhou Feb. 19, 2018

Feb. 19, 2018

Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon 2018 FFBH 2018 <http://fruitflybrain.org/hackathons>March 14, 2018Columbia University, New York, NY 10027 We are pleased to announce the 3rd Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon (FFBH 2018). This hackathon will be focused on open neurophysiology data (electrophysiology, imaging, etc.) of, but not limited to, the fruit fly brain. The hackathon will be focused on the following topics: 1. Promoting *Neurodata Without Board* (NWB) as a standard format for storing and sharing neurophysiology data in general, and extend it to standardize the storage and distribution of fruit fly brain electrophysiology and calcium imaging data, 2. *Queryable* neurophysiology data: organizing neurophysiology data and metadata in a database to make them easily queryable, and developing comprehensive querying tools accordingly, 3. Incorporating queried neurophysiology data into computational study. The goals are to: 1. create a common language for sharing open neurophysiology data, 2. speed up pattern search in the data that can often be tedious and inefficient to do manually, 3. drive the creation of computational models and the validation of them using open data. The hackathon is aimed at three main groups of participants: neurobiologists, modelers and software engineers. We welcome researchers working on the fruit fly brain as well as those working on other model organisms to participate and broaden the discussion in the hackathon. The Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon 2018 is organized in conjunction with the Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuit, Memory and Computation on March 15-16, 2018. Participants of the hackathon are welcome to attend the workshop. Registration is free but all participants have to register <https://ffbh2018.eventbrite.com/> (*https://ffbh2018.eventbrite.com/ <https://ffbh2018.eventbrite.com/>*). Organizers: Adam Tomkins, Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering, University of Sheffield Nikul Ukani, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University Chung-Heng Yeh, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University Yiyin Zhou, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University More information can be found on the hackathon website: http://fruitflybrain.org/hackathons ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Best Regards, Yiyin Zhou, on behalf of the organizers -- Yiyin Zhou Postdoctoral Research Scientist Bionet Group: www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu Department of Electrical Engineering Columbia University

1 0

10th International Neuroscience Conference - Neuronus 2018 (Krakow, Poland)
by Maciej Kosiło Feb. 19, 2018

Feb. 19, 2018

10th Biennial International Neuroscience Conference - Neuronus 2018 IBRO Neuroscience Forum 20- 24th April 2018 Auditorium Maximum of Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland The Organizing Committee of NEURONUS 2018 IBRO Neuroscience Forum cordially invites you to participate in the 10th edition of this international neuroscience conference. Neuronus IBRO Neuroscience Forum is one of the largest neuroscience conferences in Europe, creating a space for international networking between scientists of various academic levels. Previous editions drew in a total of over 2500 participants from over 80 different institutions and universities affiliated with 24 countries worldwide. *This year’s program consists of:* - *6 keynote speakers:* prof. Amir Amedi (Hebrew University, Izrael) prof. Ole Jensen (University of Birmingham, Great Britain) prof. Markus Ullsperger (University of Magdeburg, Germany) prof. Yves De Koninck (Laval University, Canada) prof. Thomas Kuner (University of Heidelberg, Germany) prof. Emma Robinson (University Of Bristol, Great Britain) - *Over 25 invited speakers and 15 oral sessions/symposia, spanning 4 categories:* Cognitive Neuroscience Biological Neuroscience Clinical Neuroscience/Neurology Medical Case Reports All information, including a list of invited speakers, is available on our website: *www.neuronusforum.pl <http://www.neuronusforum.pl/> * Abstract submission deadline: 21st February 2018 Passive registration deadline : 10th April 2018 We look forward to seeing you! Organizing Committee Neuronus 2018 IBRO Neuroscience Forum You can also follow us on social media! Facebook: www.facebook.com/NeuronusForum Twitter: www.twitter.com/neuronusforum <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Wolny od wirusów. www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

1 0

Workshop "Stochastic Models in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology" Venice, 5-7 April 2018 - Second Announcement
by Samir Suweis Feb. 19, 2018

Feb. 19, 2018

Dear All, we invite you to the workshop “Stochastic Models in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology” that will be held in Venice, 5-7 April 2018, at the Istituto Veneto di Scienze, Lettere ed Arti. Aim of the workshop is to bring together scientists with different background - people from biology, physics and mathematics - interested in stochastic models in ecology and evolutionary biology, to discuss issues and exchange methods and ideas. A partial list of topics includes: stochastic population dynamics, branching processes, robustness and adaptability of ecosystems, resilience and criticality of ecological systems, models and prediction of biodiversity, molecular evolution, and microbial community dynamics. Invited Speakers (in alphabetical order): J.-F. Arnoldi, E. Baake, J. Dalmau, J. Friedman, A. Lambert, M. Loreau, P. Metha, A. Sanchez, B. Trubenova, I. Mizrahi* (*tbc) The cost for workshop attendance will be 90 Euro, which includes coffee breaks and workshop material. We will also have contributed talks and posters sessions. The call of abstracts will close on March 2, 2018. For abstracts submission use the following EasyChair link: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=smeeb2018 <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=smeeb2018> Information on accommodation and workshop programme are available the workshop website <http://www.pd.infn.it/~maritan/veniceworkshop/veniceworkshop.html> Please help us to promote this meeting by forwarding this email to anyone you know might be interested, and especially bring this announcement to the attention of your students or post-docs, who are those most likely not to be on our mailing lists. Apologies if you receive this message multiply. There are 2 free waiver for Ph.D. students and young post-docs offered by Entropy Journal. To apply for the fee waiver, send your abstract through the Easy Chair link in the Abstract submission section, and send an email with your CV to “liph.unipd(a)gmail.com". On the behalf of the workshop organizers, Amos Maritan & Samir Suweis LIPh lab University of Padova http://www.pd.infn.it/~maritan/index.html <http://www.pd.infn.it/~maritan/index.html> Samir Suweis, Ph.D. https://impactstory.org/u/SamirSuweis <https://impactstory.org/u/SamirSuweis> @SamirSuweis Research Scientist (RTDa) LIPh Lab, Physics Department, University of Padova Tel: +39 049 827 72 51 www.pd.infn.it/~maritan/people/Samir/samir.html

1 0

Book Announcement: Elements of Neurogeometry.
by Jean Petitot Feb. 19, 2018

Feb. 19, 2018

Apologies for multiple postings. Dear Colleagues, The following book is now available: "Elements of Neurogeometry. Functional architectures of vision" (Springer). This book describes several mathematical models of the primary visual cortex, referring them to a vast ensemble of experimental data and putting forward an original geometrical model for its functional architectures Using concepts as wavelet analysis; contact, symplectic, and sub-Riemannian geometry, it provides a systematic interpretation of a number of important neurophysiological observations in a welldefined mathematical framework. More information (in particular the Table of contents) can be found on the following web pages: <http://www.springer.com/fr/book/9783319655895>http://www.springer.com/fr/book/9783319655895 <http://jeanpetitot.com/Petitot_Springer/9783319655895-t1(contents).pdf>http://jeanpetitot.com/Petitot_Springer/9783319655895-t1(contents).pdf With my best regards, Jean Petitot

1 0

Postdoctoral position in human intracranial electrophysiology
by Shuo Wang Feb. 16, 2018

Feb. 16, 2018

[Apologies for multiple posting] We invite applicants with strong motivation in investigating the neural mechanisms of visual attention to apply for a postdoctoral position at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI), West Virginia University. The applicant will work on intracranial single-unit recordings from human subjects, investigating questions related to visual saliency and social attention in autism. This will include experimental work with neurosurgical patients (electrophysiology and behavior), data processing and analysis, spike-train analysis, and experimental design. The applicant will have access to state-of-the art equipment, facilities and analytical methods and this research will be in a highly collaborative environment. The applicant will not only collaborate with investigators at the RNI, but also be part of an established team of investigators at both Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Dr. Ueli Rutishauser) and the California Institute of Technology (Dr. Ralph Adolphs), with ample opportunity to learn new techniques and methods. Candidates should have strong programming (Matlab or similar) skills. Expertise in machine learning is desired. Individuals with previous human intracranial EEG experience and/or macaque single neuron recordings that wish to expand into human single-unit recordings are encouraged to apply. For further information, please contact Dr. Shuo Wang at shuo.wang(a)mail.wvu.edu. Further information about the lab can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/shuowangsocialneuroscience/

1 0

Post-Doctoral Fellow, EEG/MEG Processing & Rehab, University of Maryland, Baltimore
by Abarro, Janice Feb. 16, 2018

Feb. 16, 2018

The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science, is pleased to announce the availability of post-doctoral research fellowships through the U.S. Administration for Community Living, National Institute of Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, University of Maryland Advanced Neuromotor Rehabilitation Research Training Program, in collaboration with Bioengineering Department, University of Maryland, College Park. The preferred applicant will have a recent doctoral degree, experience in working with EEG/EMG signal processing and rehabilitation robotics, with applications to neurorehabilitation of patients with neurological disorders. To apply, applicants should send a cover letter to include a statement of career goals, CV, and contact information for three references to: Janice Abarro, Research Coordinator jabarro(a)som.umaryland.edu Starting date: Immediate or negotiable. From: Abarro, Janice Sent: Thursday, February 15, 2018 2:37 PM To: 'comp-neuro(a)neuroinformatics.be' <comp-neuro(a)neuroinformatics.be> Subject: Post to list request Importance: High Hello, Please find the attached job posting to be listed. Please note the postings are attached as a word.doc and .pdf for you to choose the document that meets your needs for posting. We kindly thank you for offering this posting permission. Kind regards, Janice Janice Abarro Research Coordinator Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science jabarro(a)som.umaryland.edu<mailto:jabarro@som.umaryland.edu> [http://medschool.umaryland.edu/media/SOM/Offices-of-the-Dean/Public-Affairs…]

1 0

Postdoc Position: Decision-making in dynamic environments (U Penn/U Houston/CU Boulder)
by Zachary Kilpatrick Feb. 16, 2018

Feb. 16, 2018

We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH/NSF funded interdisciplinary project that includes Joshua Gold (University of Pennsylvania), Krešo Josić (University of Houston), and Zack Kilpatrick (University of Colorado, Boulder). All three of us will be at the Cosyne meeting in Denver (March 1-4, 2018), so please contact us if you would like to find a time to discuss the position in person. Our aim is to understand how the brain accumulates evidence in dynamic environments. The project is guided by the overriding hypothesis that brain networks involved in decision-making computations incorporate learned expectations of the environment to implement adaptive decision-making. We seek a candidate who can work at the interface of experimental, computational, and theoretical neuroscience. As part of an interdisciplinary team, The candidate will develop models of neural circuits that approximate normative evidence accumulation in dynamic environments. The candidate will also help to validate these models, using behavioral data from humans and neural recordings from primates performing dynamic decision tasks. For further information please contact Krešimir Josić (josic(a)math.uh.edu <mailto:josic@math.uh.edu>) or Zack Kilpatrick (zpkilpat(a)colorado.edu <mailto:zpkilpat@colorado.edu>)

1 0

Several permanent positions in robotics coming up in Plymouth/UK
by Thomas Wennekers Feb. 14, 2018

Feb. 14, 2018

[Apologies for cross-posting] Dear colleagues, The University of Plymouth is seeking to fill *multiple positions* for* Lecturer/Associate Professor in Robotics*. All positions are full-time and of a permanent nature. The School of Computing, Electronics and Mathematics offers a wide range of degree programmes related to Technology in the areas of Robotics, Electronics, Computer Science and Mathematics. The School provides a stimulating teaching and research environment with strong connections to business and industry and offers excellent employment prospects for our graduates. We have a well-established interdisciplinary research base which covers: Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS); Security, Communications & Networks; Nanotechnology & Electronics Research and Development. We have vacancies for enthusiastic, innovative and dynamic individuals to join our vibrant School to support Robotics and Machine Learning, especially as applied to solving real-world problems by building systems that can operate in close proximity to people. Areas of interest include (but are not limited to) the development of Soft Robotics, Autonomous Mobile Platforms, Human-Robot Interaction, and Machine Vision Systems using Deep Learning. One current focus in Plymouth is the design and construction of Agricultural Robots for fruit and vegetable harvesting. Applications are invited from experienced academics and/or professional engineers, who can demonstrate a commitment and enthusiasm for innovation in higher education and to the development of the next generation of Professional Engineers. You must have undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in relevant disciplines (such as Engineering/Maths/Physics/Computer Science) together with an international profile and reputation for research excellence. As well as carrying out cutting edge research, you will supervise and contribute to training of Research Assistants (RAs) and PhD students, as well as contributing to teaching within the BEng/MEng/MSc in Robotics, as well as other courses within the School. The Electronics and Robotics subject groups are renowned for excellence in producing high quality practical engineers and you should be able to support hardware and software projects. Apply here: https://hrservices.plymouth.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.o… Contact for informal discussion: Dr Ian Howard, ian.howard(a)plymouth.ac.uk Further information about the school and its courses is available at www.plymouth.ac.uk/compmath with details of our research centre available at www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/crns Closing date: *12midnight, 1st March 2018.* The University of Plymouth is committed to an inclusive culture and respecting diversity, and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and is a Stonewall diversity champion. The University holds a Bronze Athena SWAN Award which recognises commitment to advancing women's careers in STEMM academia. ----------------------------------------- ________________________________ [http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/images/email_footer.gif]<http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/worldclass> This email and any files with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient then copying, distribution or other use of the information contained is strictly prohibited and you should not rely on it. If you have received this email in error please let the sender know immediately and delete it from your system(s). Internet emails are not necessarily secure. While we take every care, Plymouth University accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. Plymouth University does not accept responsibility for any changes made after it was sent. Nothing in this email or its attachments constitutes an order for goods or services unless accompanied by an official order form.

1 0

PhD / PostDoc position in the field of Learning Systems at Ulm University
by Daniel Braun Feb. 14, 2018

Feb. 14, 2018

In the *Institute of Neural Information Processing* of the Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology of Ulm University there will be a *PhD / PostDoc position in the field of Learning Systems * to be filled as soon as possible in the newly established research group on “Learning Systems”. The group is interested in the mathematical foundations of intelligent behavior in cognitive systems, including both biological and artificial systems, in particular the information-processing principles underlying learning and decision-making. This requires a combined theoretical and experimental approach. In our theoretical line of work we use methods from machine learning, statistics, physics, information theory and decision theory to investigate the effects of limited resources on learning and decision-making (“bounded rationality”). In our experimental line of work we investigate sensorimotor behavior in humans by using virtual reality technology and robotic interfaces to study learning and decision-making quantitatively under controlled conditions. This interdisciplinary approach unites aspects from both basic and applied research. On a basic level we aim at a quantitative understanding of embodied intelligence, in particular the emergence of cognition from sensorimotor interactions by processes of abstraction and structure learning. On an applied level we are interested in both autonomous robotic systems and human-machine-interactions, as sensorimotor learning and decision-making in artificial systems constitute a cutting-edge technical challenge. The research group is supported by the ERC-project BRISC (Bounded Rationality in Sensorimotor Coordination) https://erc.europa.eu/projects-figures/erc-funded- projects/results?search_api_views_fulltext=BRISC funded by the excellence programme of the European Research Council, in which we aim at a novel information-theoretic understanding of sensorimotor interactions in psychological and technical systems. Ulm University with its more than 10,000 students is Baden-Württemberg’s youngest university. It offers attractive career prospects in a highly innovative research, teaching and work environment at the same time facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life. Embedded within the novel international “Cognitive Systems”-Master’s course, the research group “Learning Systems” is part of the university’s priority programme on human-machine-interaction. Beyond the university, there are plenty of opportunities to cooperate with international partners in Great Britain and the United States. The applicants should have a strong mathematical background, hold a Diploma or Master’s degree in natural science, mathematics, economics, psychology, computer science, engineering or similar and have a keen interest in artificial and natural intelligence. The positions are paid according to German tariff TV-L E13. Exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree can also be considered, albeit with an individual pay scale regulation. The University of Ulm is an equal opportunity employer: Handicapped individuals are strongly encouraged to apply, and so are women in areas in which they are underrepresented. The positions will be filled as soon as possible. Candidates should send a CV, a brief statement of interest and a copy of their highest degree to Prof. Dr. Dr. Daniel Alexander Braun daniel.braun(a)uni-ulm.de -- Prof. Dr. Dr. Daniel Alexander Braun Institute of Neural Information Processing Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology Ulm University James-Franck-Ring D-89081 Ulm Germany phone: +49 (0)731 50 - 24150 <%2B49%20%280%29731%2050%20-%2024158> fax: +49 (0)731 50 - 24156 email: daniel.braun(a)uni-ulm.de

1 0

In memoriam Jean-Marie Cabelguen, January 30 2018.
by Auke Ijspeert Feb. 14, 2018

Feb. 14, 2018

[apologies in case of multiple copies] Dear Colleagues and Friends, It is with a great sadness that we heard that Professor Jean-Marie Cabelguen passed away on January 30, 2018 after battling cancer. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. As a researcher and lecturer in neurophysiology, he made profound contributions towards understanding the neural circuits underlying locomotion in vertebrate animals. A warm and passionate person, Jean-Marie was greatly appreciated by the scientific community to which he belonged. We created a website https://biorob2.epfl.ch/pages/cabelguen/ to allow his colleagues and friends to share some thoughts and memories about him. If you would like to do so, please write your messages (short or long, in any language) as an email to inmemoriam.jmc(a)epfl.ch <mailto:inmemoriam.jmc@epfl.ch>, and they will be posted here. Thank you. Best wishes, Auke Ijspeert, Vanessa Charrier, Dimitri Ryczko, Alessandro Crespi -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- 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 -----------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Funded PhD: Causality and complexity in human neural dynamics during natural vision
by Anil Seth Feb. 13, 2018

Feb. 13, 2018

A funded PhD position is available at the University of Sussex, UK, application deadline Feb 16 2018. Causality and complexity in human neural dynamics during natural vision A PhD studentship in the area of computational neuroscience is available at the Sackler Centre for Consciousness Science, within Prof Anil Seth's group based in the Department of Informatics. It is a collaborative project with the group of Prof. Rafael Malach at the Weizmann Institute in Israel, and Prof. Ashesh Mehta from the Feinstein Institute in New York. The position is co-funded by the University of Sussex and the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR). This project offers an exciting opportunity to apply leading-edge analytical methods to unique sources of data, in order to unravel the neural basis of conscious vision. The successful candidate will develop and apply dynamical complexity measures and functional connectivity analysis to detailed intracranial recordings obtained from humans during unconstrained real-world movement, with simultaneous video. A key advantage of this set-up is the availability of extensive high-resolution coverage of the entire (human) visual brain, acquired during ecologically valid visual behaviour. Other sources of data may also be analysed during the project. The overall goal is to work towards an explanatory bridge from network-level neural dynamics to large-scale theories of perception and consciousness (e.g., global workspace theory, predictive processing). More details, including how to apply, are here: http://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships/view/8… (please note funding is sufficient to cover fees and living expenses for UK/EU students only). Additional details are here: https://www.findaphd.com/search/projectdetails.aspx?PJID=92986 --------------------------------------------- Anil K. Seth, D.Phil. University of Sussex, UK Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience Co-Director, Sackler Centre for Consciousness Science Editor-in-Chief, Neuroscience of Consciousness www.anilseth.com<http://www.anilseth.com> @anilkseth

1 0

[meetings] [LM2018] 2nd call for papers
by Vasiliki Vouloutsi Feb. 13, 2018

Feb. 13, 2018

Dear colleagues, Please find below the second call for participation to the 7th edition of Living Machines. Apologies for cross-posting but please share this announcement with your colleagues. Looking forward to seeing you in Paris! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ /Second Call for Papers, Satellite Events and Sponsors/ *Living Machines VII: The 7th International Conference on Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems* *16 – 19 July 2018*** To be hosted at the Museum National D’Histoire Naturelle, Grand Amphitéâtre du Museum,and UPMC, Paris, France, EU Accepted papers will be published in Springer/Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence/ Submission deadline: March 12th, 2018 http://livingmachinesconference.eu/2018 <http://livingmachinesconference.eu/2018> _____________________________________________________________________________ ** *ABOUT LIVING MACHINES 2018* The development of future real-world technologies will depend strongly on our understanding and harnessing of the principles underlying living systems and the flow of communication signals between living and artificial systems. *Biomimetics*is the development of novel technologies through the distillation of principles from the study of biological systems.The investigation of biomimetic systems can serve two complementary goals. First, a suitably designed and configured biomimetic artefact can be used to test theories about the natural system of interest. Second, biomimetic technologies can provide useful, elegant and efficient solutions to unsolved challenges in science and engineering. *Biohybrid*systems are formed by combining at least one biological component—an existing living system—and at least one artificial, newly-engineered component. By passing information in one or both directions, such a system forms a new hybrid bio-artificial entity. The theme of the conference also encompasses biomimetic methods for manufacture, repair and recycling inspired by natural processes such as reproduction, digestion, morphogenesis and metamorphosis. The following are some examples of “Living Machines” as featured at past conferences: •Biomimetic robots and their component technologies (sensors, actuators, processors) that can interact with their physical and social environments. •Biomimetic computers and architectures —neuromimetic emulations of the physiological basis for complex adaptive behaviour. •Active biomimetic materials and structures that self-organize and self-repair. •Nature-based designs and manufacturing processes. •Biohybrid brain-machine interfaces and neuronal implants and neuroprosthetics. •Artificial organs and body-parts including sensory organ-chip hybrids and advanced prostheses and cyber-physical systems. •Organism-level biohybrids and symbiosis such as robot-animal or robot-human systems. ** *ACTIVITIES* The main conference will take the form of a*three-day single-track oral*and*poster presentation programme*, 17th to 19th July 2018,Museum National D’Histoire Naturelle,Grand Amphitéâtre du Museum,and UPMC,Paris, France, EU. The conference programme will include*five plenary lectures*from leading international researchers in biomimetic and biohybrid systems, and the demonstrations of state-of-the-art living machine technologies. The full conference will be preceded by up to two days of*Satellite Events*hosted atÉcole Normale Supérieure, Paris. *SUBMITTING TO LIVING MACHINES 2018* We invite both*full papers*and*extended abstracts*in areas related to the conference themes. All contributions will be refereed, and accepted papers will appear in the Living Machines Proceedings, published in the*Springer-Verlag/Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence/.* Full papers (minimum 8 pages, up to 12 pages) are invited from researchers at any stage in their career and should present significant findings and advances in biomimetic or biohybrid research. More preliminary work is better suited for short paper submission (minimum 4 pages, with a maximum of ten references and no more than three self-citations).Full papers will be accepted for either oral presentation (single track) or poster presentation with a short podium preview. Extended abstracts will be accepted for poster presentation only. Authors of the best full papers will be invited to submitted extended versions of their paper for publication in a special issue of the Taylor & Francis journal*Connection Science*. *Satellite events* Active researchers in biomimetic and biohybrid systems are invited to propose topics for full or half-day*tutorials, symposia*or*workshops*on related themes to be held on the 16^th July atthe École Normale Supérieure in Paris (http://www.ens.fr/en <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.ens.fr_en&d=DwMDaQ&…>). Attendance at satellite events will attract a small fee intended to cover the costs of the meeting. There is flexibility about the content, organisation, and budgeting for these events. Please contact us if you are interested in organising a satellite event! ** *EXPECTED DEADLINES* March 12th, 2018 Paper submission deadline April 28th, 2018 Notification of acceptance May 15th, 2018 Camera-ready copy July 16th – 19th, 2018 Workshops and Conference ** *SPONSORSHIP* Organisations wishing to sponsor the conference in any way and gain the corresponding benefits by promoting themselves and their products through conference publications, conference events, and conference publicity areencouraged to contact the organisers to discuss the terms of sponsorship and necessary arrangements. We also offer a number of attractive options to potential sponsors. *VENUE* Consistent with the Living Machines’ tradition of choosing historical venues at the crossroads between life and human sciences, this year the conference will take place at theMuseum National D’Histoire Naturelle(http://www.mnhn.fr/fr <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.mnhn.fr_fr&d=DwMDaQ…>) a historical museum located in the heart of Paris that for almost 400 years has focused on nature and its relationship with humans. The museum is immersed in history, yet at the heart of current affairs, and is also working to be projected towards the future. Poster sessions will be organized at UPMC. ** *Organising Committee:* *Jose Halloy*,Université Paris Diderot(Local Organizing Chair) *Paul Verschure*, IBEC-BIST (Co-Chair) *Tony Prescott*, University of Sheffield (Steering Committee) *Vicky Vouloutsi,*IBEC-BIST, Barcelona (Programme Chair) *Michael Mangan*, University of Lincoln (Programme Co-Chair) *Nathan Lepora*, University of Bristol (Communications) *Anna Mura*, IBEC-BIST, Barcelona (Web and Communications) *Local**Organising Committee:* *Stéphane Doncieux*, Prof. UMPC, ISIR *Benoît Girard*, DR CNRS, UPMC, ISIR *Emmanuelle Pouydebat*, DR CNRS, Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle *Vincent Bels*, Prof. Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle -- 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>

1 0

2 Funded PhD Interdisciplinary Scholarships on Robotics and Brain Science
by Dimitri Ognibene Feb. 12, 2018

Feb. 12, 2018

The Faculty of Science and Health of the University of Essex is pleased to invite applications for 2 Funded PhD positions that will work on the following topics combining Psychology and Robotics (CSEE): 1)http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BHO005/phd-studentship-are-you-looking-at-me-transferring-social-skills-from-humans-to-robots <http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BHO005/phd-studentship-are-you-looking-at-me-tran…> (deadline 12th March 2018 <http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BHO005/phd-studentship-are-you-looking-at-me-tran…>.) 2)http://jobs.ac.uk/job/BHF222/phd-studentship-careobot-cognitive-robotic-companion-for-carehomes-and-hospitals/ <http://jobs.ac.uk/job/BHF222/phd-studentship-careobot-cognitive-robotic-com…> (deadline 23rd February 2018 <http://jobs.ac.uk/job/BHF222/phd-studentship-careobot-cognitive-robotic-com…>) The post holder will have the opportunity to a) develop new advanced methods for cognitive robots based on machine learning, signal processing and information theory, b) design and perform behavioural experiments with human subjects and c) analyze experimental data in collaboration with experimental neuroscience laboratories. This is part of the Faculty plan to strengthen its interdisciplinary research at the boundaries between Natural and Artificial Intelligence (BCI, ML, AI, Robotics, Psychology and Neuroscience). Other new PhD positions can be found here: https://www1.essex.ac.uk/csee/pg/studentships.aspx <https://www1.essex.ac.uk/csee/pg/studentships.aspx> Additional questions and queries about the studentship can be addressed by contacting the supervisors specified in the call. -- Dimitri Ognibene, PhD School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, UK http://sites.google.com/site/dimitriognibenehomepage/ <http://sites.google.com/site/dimitriognibenehomepage/> Skype: dimitri.ognibene

1 0

postdoc opening in data analysis for depression DBS at Georgia Tech
by Christopher Rozell Feb. 11, 2018

Feb. 11, 2018

A postdoc position at the intersection of computational neuroscience, clinical neuropsychiatry and data analysis is available working jointly with the labs of Christopher Rozell and Robert Butera at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, GA). This BRAIN Initiative research project seeks to develop electrophysiological biomarkers to characterize disease progression and optimize deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment-resistant depression. This clinically-focused project (clinical lead is Dr. Helen Mayberg) is a collaboration with Emory University and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai that is providing access to one-of-a-kind human electrophysiology data recorded by implanted DBS devices *during therapy* in an experimental trial. The role of our computational team is to develop analysis and modeling approaches to identify electrophysiological signatures that correlate with treatment response and optimize stimulation parameters. This is an opportunity to work on a challenging scientific problem with real impact on a sick patient population. Applicants should hold a PhD in a related discipline with a strong research record. Experience in advanced techniques for analyzing time-series data (e.g., signal processing and machine learning) is desirable, additional experience in computational neuroscience modeling and working with neurophysiology data is helpful . The labs are committed to the professional development of the members, making it valuable preparation for people who are interested in academic, industrial or entrepreneurial careers. The position has no mandatory teaching or administrative duties. Excellent (written and oral) communication skills in English are required. The ideal start date is May 2018. The position is initially for 12 months with the possibility of renewal. Compensation will be commensurate with relevant experience. Georgia Tech has competitive benefits (including comprehensive medical insurance) and is an equal opportunity employer. Georgia Tech's campus in the heart of midtown Atlanta, which is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas (and entrepreneurial communities) in the United States. Atlanta boasts a wide range of opportunities for recreation, culture, and easy access to domestic and international transportation. Candidates should send a CV, a statement of research experience and interests, expected date of availability, and the contact information for three references to christopher.thomas(a)ece.gatech.edu with the subject line "Neuro DBS postdoc". Application review will proceed until the position is filled and should be received by February 19, 2018 for full consideration.

1 0

cosyne workshop on closed-loop stimulation
by Christopher Rozell Feb. 11, 2018

Feb. 11, 2018

We would like to invite you to an upcoming COSYNE workshop that is very relevant for the computational neuroscience community! Title: Closed-loop control of neural systems and circuits for scientific discovery Tuesday, March 6, 2018 Organizers: Christopher Rozell, Garrett Stanley With the advent of new technologies for interfacing with neural systems, there are exciting opportunities emerging that enable us to manipulate neural systems and circuits while simultaneously monitoring their activity. These new sensing and actuation strategies hold the promise of more powerful techniques for functionally dissecting complex neural circuits to uncover their operating principles and potentially develop novel clinical therapies. With a common goal of neural control, a variety of researchers ranging from theorists to experimentalists are currently developing techniques for estimating system states from recorded data and making real-time updates to stimulation. This topic is particularly timely because of the confluence of technological advances in recording, stimulation, and algorithms that enable closed-loop stimulation studies in circuits, and for increasing government and private support for research in these and related areas. Such closed-loop techniques will enable an entirely new class of experimental manipulations that promise new insight into circuit function in health as well as disease. Given that the first papers using closed-loop stimulation of neural circuits have only recently appeared in the literature and there is finally a critical mass of people working on these exciting problems, now is the perfect time to bring a community together around this emerging area. The overarching goal of this workshop is to foster a discussion to illuminate a set of community research goals to accelerate the impact of closed-loop stimulation techniques in neuroscience. This workshop will provide a venue for researchers building the components of these closed-loop stimulation systems and researchers using these tools for scientific discovery and clinical treatments. Specifically, the target audience includes neuroscience researchers who are using (or want to be using) closed-loop stimulation of neural circuits in scientific studies or treatment for disorders, computational neuroscientists developing the foundations for analysis and design of algorithms necessary for closed-loop control (include modeling and state estimation), and neuroengineering researchers building elements of experimental systems (interfaces, algorithms and hardware). Morning session 8:00-8:15a Introduction and opening remarks by organizers and representatives from BRAIN Initiative and IEEE Brain 8:15-8:40a Maryam Shanechi, Dynamic modeling of brain network response to stimulation: a computational framework with binary-noise modulated waveforms 8:40-9:05a Memming Park, Myopic control of neural dynamics 9:05-9:35a Coffee break 9:35-10:00a Danielle Bassett, Perturbation and control of human brain networks 10:00-10:25a Hillel Adesnik, Precise control of neural ensemble activity with multiphoton holographic optogenetics 10:25-11:00a Christopher Rozell & Garrett Stanley, Closed-loop optogenetic control in vivo: tracking dynamics and states Afternoon session 4:30-4:55p Jeanne Paz, Optogenetic Closed loop control of thalamocortical seizures in animal models of genetic and acquired epilepsies 4:55-5:20p Sridevi Sarma, Suppressing seizures via closed-loop stimulation of the epileptogenic zone 5:20-5:50p Coffee break 5:50-6:15p ShiNung Ching, Controlling the Meaning of Spikes: Strategies for Extrinsic Manipulation of Neural Information Processing 6:15-6:40p Chethan Pandarinath, LFADS: a deep learning method to infer latent states and dynamics from neural population activity 6:40-7:30 Panel discussion and concluding remarks

1 0

2 x Tenure track position at Monash University, Psychology, Assistant / Associate Professor
by Naotsugu Tsuchiya Feb. 9, 2018

Feb. 9, 2018

[Apologies for cross-posting] Dear colleagues, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia are opening two tenure-track positions in Psychology at the level of Assistant / Associate Professor. For the details, please see http://careers.pageuppeople.com/513/cw/en/job/572474/ senior-lecturer-and-associate-professor-psychology Monash is full of thinkers and doers who are looking for their next challenge. So if you’ve forged a rewarding career so far, this role provides the perfect platform to join us. You’ll have access to quality research facilities, infrastructure and teaching spaces to do exciting work, along with opportunities to collaborate internationally. You’ll be part of a university that’s made up of inspirational, challenging thinkers and doers – and continue doing work that makes a lasting impact. The Opportunity The Monash School of Psychological Sciences is ranked among the best in the world. Our School’s mission is to develop students and research outcomes that make significant contributions to improving the lives of others globally. Our overarching vision is to make significant and long-lasting impact that changes the world around us, beginning in infancy and across the lifespan. Drawing on the expertise of our staff and the University' unique research platforms and technology, our mission is to sustain and build on Monash's position with world-class research and teaching in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience. The newly established Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences (MICCN; housed within the School of Psychological Sciences) will provide an exceptional research environment for discoveries that change of our understanding of the brain. Through excellent research and training, a wide network of international partners, and strong industry engagement MICCN will lay the foundation for a pipeline of discovery in areas of critical importance of the human brain and see that knowledge translated into the clinic, the workplace and the community. MICCN has four core integrated research programs: Addiction, Attention and Memory, Computational Neuroscience and Sleep. For these 2 important roles we are seeking the following: *Level C:* The Senior Lecturer will be expected to contribute to a world-class program of research that focuses on psychological science specifically in one of MICCN’s core integrated research programs, and will lead a national and emerging internationally competitive research group. The Senior Lecturer will also be expected to teach into the discipline of Psychology at the undergraduate level and supervise Honours and PhD students. As the ideal candidate you will have: - A doctoral qualification in Psychology or Cognate Discipline - Emerging track record of peer reviewed (competitive) grants, and a strong publication record in world-class journals as lead author, preferably aligned with one of MICCN’s integrated research programs. - Successful track record of high quality teaching *Level D:* The Associate Professor will be expected to have an established world-class program of research that focuses on psychological science specifically in one of MICCN’s core integrated research programs, and will lead an internationally competitive research group. The Associate Professor will also be expected to teach into the discipline of Psychology at the undergraduate level and supervise Honours and PhD students. As the ideal candidate you will have: - A doctoral qualification in Psychology or Cognate Discipline - Sustained track record of peer reviewed (competitive) grants, and publications in world-class journals as lead author, preferably aligned with one of MICCN’s integrated research programs. - Ability to be an effective leader of a research team and a successful track record in PhD supervision. - Successful track record of high quality teaching and education innovation These roles are full-time positions. Regards Nao Tsuchiya -- -- *Nao (Naotsugu) Tsuchiya* Associate Professor *Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences* Attention and Memory Program School of Psychological Sciences Monash University 770 Blackburn Monash Brain Imaging facility, Clayton, VIC 3800 Australia T: +61 3 9905 4564 E: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu W: homepage: http://users.monash.edu.au/~naotsugt/Tsuchiya_Labs_Homepage http://med.monash.edu.au/psych/email-sig/miccn-email-sig.jpg <http://www.monash.edu/neuro-institute/> 2. Visiting Researcher at Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging, Advanced Telecommunications Research (ATR), Japan 3. Visiting Researcher at CiNet, Osaka University, Japan orcid.org/0000-0003-4216-8701

1 0

2nd Brain Twitter Conference 2018 #brainTC
by Sheraz Khan Feb. 9, 2018

Feb. 9, 2018

Dear colleagues, The poster abstract submission for the 2nd Brain Twitter Conference 2018 #brainTC is now open! This year the keynote tweeters include Aina Puce, Matti Hämäläinen, Aude Oliva, OHBM, Rebecca Saxe and Sophie Scott! For more information about the conference and how to submit an abstract, please visit our website https://brain.tc and follow "*@RealBrainTC*". What is Twitter Conference? A Twitter conference is meant for scientists to present and discuss their research on social media. During the conference presenters will be allocated a 15 min time slot, during which they will present a series of 6 tweets or less, marked with the #brainTC tag and an ordinal number of the tweet. This is a great opportunity to practice condensing your message and getting word of your research out there. Last year the The Brain Twitter Conference (#brainTC) had a reach of ~ 0.6 million Twitter users! Best wishes, On behalf of the organizing committee, best wishes, Sheraz Khan @dr_sheraz ---------------------------------------- Sheraz Khan, M.Eng, Ph.D. Instructor in Radiology Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging Massachusetts General Hospital Tel: +1 617-643-5634 Fax: +1 617-948-5966 Email: sheraz(a)nmr.mgh.harvard.edu <https://mail.nmr.mgh.harvard.edu/webmail/src/compose.php?send_to=sheraz%40n…> sheraz(a)mit.edu <https://mail.nmr.mgh.harvard.edu/webmail/src/compose.php?send_to=sheraz%40m…> Web: http://sheraz.mit.edu GitHub:http://github.com/SherazKhan

1 0

multiple posts in MEG and cog neuro at different levels
by Alex Ossadtchi Feb. 9, 2018

Feb. 9, 2018

Dear colleagues – we have an exciting new opportunity for both senior and budding MEG scientists to develop their research in a new environment. Could you please forward the advert below to your departmental lists and job board, as well as any people who may potentially be interested? Best and thanks! Alex Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the opening of a new MEG group in one of the most exciting cities on the planet. The Centre for Cognition & Decision Making (CCDM, https://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/) is a young, dynamic and ambitious research centre based at the Higher School of Economics (HSE) - a modern, international and rapidly developing research-intensive university in Moscow, which invests heavily in both fundamental and applied research. CCDM is looking for a PI and postdocs for the newly established MEG group. We offer highly competitive salary, excellent research infrastructure with comprehensive neuroimaging facilities, research and travel support funds, possibilities for multidisciplinary collaborations (including access to patients and other special groups, as well as methods and instrumentation development), and a friendly and international team. This is a perfect opportunity to define and develop your own independent research programme in collaboration with international experts in various fields.Moscow is an exciting international metropolis with unlimited opportunities, very high living standards, rich cultural life, vibrant 24/7 atmosphere, legendary restaurant and nightlife scene, excellent public services and urban infrastructure, etc. etc. We invite applications for: 1) A full-time tenure-track position to head the newly established MEG group. The position is open-ranked at Assistant, Associate or Full Professor level, depending on experience. To apply, go to https://iri.hse.ru/Meg2018 2) Postdoctoral posts associated with the new MEG research group: https://iri.hse.ru/post_<https://iri.hse.ru/post_meg2018 <https://iri.hse.ru/post_%3chttps:/iri.hse.ru/post_meg2018>> 3) Further post-doc fellowships in various fields of cognitive neuroscience: https://iri.hse.ru//<https://iri.hse.ru/fellowships <https://iri.hse.ru/%3chttps:/iri.hse.ru/fellowships>> May we kindly ask you to circulate this exciting news to your mailing lists, and to any potentially interested researchers? Thank you very much in advance and Happy MEGging in 2018! Centre for Cognition & Decision Making Higher School of Economics -- Alexei Ossadtchi,Ph.D., Director, Bioelectric Interfaces Laboratory Leading Research Fellow, Center for Cognition and Decision Making Professor, Computer Science Department National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow

1 0

Feb 15 Application Deadline - 2018 Nengo Summer School
by Peter Blouw Feb. 8, 2018

Feb. 8, 2018

[All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summerschool] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce a special version of our annual Nengo summer school that will host the* first public access* to *Braindrop*, a new mixed analog-digital neuromorphic chip developed in collaboration with Stanford and Yale. In addition to introducing Braindrop, this two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems, and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun [1]. Nengo is also being used to program a variety of state-of-the-art neuromorphic chips, including Braindrop! For a look at last year's summer school, check out this short video: https://goo.gl/4tVUkQ We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, research associates, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. [1] Eliasmith, C., Stewart T. C., Choo X., Bekolay T., DeWolf T., Tang Y., Rasmussen, D. (2012). A large-scale model of the functioning brain. Science. Vol. 338 no. 6111 pp. 1202-1205. DOI: 10.1126/science.1225266. [ http://compneuro.uwaterloo.ca/files/publications/eliasmith.2012.pdf] Application Deadline: February 15, 2018 *Format*: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, modeling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: - interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware - build perceptual, motor, and cognitive models using spiking neurons - model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data - use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model - integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models - interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems - implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models - and much more... *Date and Location:* June 3th to June 15th, 2018 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. *Applications*: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summerschool, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Peter Blouw (peter.blouw(a)appliedbrainresearch.com) We look forward to hearing from you!

1 0

Open Postdoctoral Position in Object Detection
by Frederic Jurie Feb. 8, 2018

Feb. 8, 2018

Open Postdoctoral Position in Object Detection Context: The DRAAF project is supported by an interdisciplinary consortium of two French public research labs (INRIA-WILLOW, Paris and GREYC, Caen), as well as a French SME (EVITECH, Paris) which is also the project leader. The overall objective of the project is to develop a framework for the detection of weapons (guns, etc.) in videos, to address automatic surveillance tasks. It’s a challenging topic as the targeted objects are small, partially occluded and might have very different shapes/aspects. The postdoctoral researcher will join the research laboratory GREYC in Caen Normandy (France) to work on the design of original object detectors in videos. GREYC has strong backgrounds in computer science, signal/image processing,applied mathematics, artificial intelligence, and regularly publish in the top-tier vision conferences and journals. Required competences: The postdoctoral researcher will have excellent analytical skills, curious, and creative, and have an interest in performing cutting edge applied research in a very active area (object detection). He/She should have a strong academic record with solid background in computer science or engineering, and a solid experience in Computer vision and Machine Learning. Good programming skills are expected, preferably in Python/Tensorflow, as well as skills for turning complex concepts into real-world practice. Any experience in object detection will be a plus. The candidate should have an independent and efficient working attitude and should be fluent in spoken/written English. Contract terms: Location: GREYC (CNRS UMR6072), Normandy Univ. (France) Start: June 2018 (Tentative) Duration: one year, extension possible. The appointment is full time. Net salary: up to about 2800 euros/month depending on experience and achievements in the domain. Living conditions in Normandy are considered among the best in Europe https://www.normandie.fr Applicants should submit their applications, as well as the name of 3 referees, to frederic.jurie(a)unicaen.fr.

1 0

Call for a computer scientist (or related, with machine learning experience) interested in brain function.
by Agustin Petroni Feb. 7, 2018

Feb. 7, 2018

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Diego A. Laplagne <diego(a)neuro.ufrn.br> Date: Wed, Feb 7, 2018 at 3:09 PM Amigos, Still looking for candidates. If you can think of some lists where this was not distributed could you please send it? Thanks! Diego ***************** Rereading the mind. Unbiased discovery of neural correlates of behavior We are looking for an outstanding and highly motivated candidate with solid background in machine learning and interested in brain function. We aim to discover new ways in which brain activity generates behavior. We will depart from traditional approaches in neuroscience in two ways: studying natural spontaneous behavior—as opposed to guided and restricted—and analyzing brain signals with a naive unbiased approach. Our group is leader in automatic quantitative monitoring of spontaneous rat behavior and brain activity. We want you to join our team if you a) find the prospect of developing new approaches to reading minds fascinating; b) have a strong background in modern machine learning methods and c) are willing to spend time with us in Natal, Brazil, where our lab is located. Neither a background in neuroscience nor previous experience in research in academic institutions is strictly required. The position is flexible, such that candidates could plan their research with us as a postdoctoral stay, part of a thesis or freelance. Our project is supported by the prestigious Serrapilheira award. One year of funding is guaranteed, starting early 2018, and chances for extension of stipends is strong following good performance of the candidate. If interested, please write in English, Spanish or Portuguese to diego(a)neuro.ufrn.br with subject “People search 2018”, including a CV. There is no deadline, but selection will close when we find our person! Diego A. Laplagne, Ph.D. Group leader, Behavioral Neurophysiology Lab – Brain Institute, UFRN. http://www.neuro.ufrn.br *****************

1 0

2018 NICE Workshop Agenda and Registrations
by Aimone, James Bradley Feb. 7, 2018

Feb. 7, 2018

Registrations and agenda are available for the 2018 Neural Inspired Computing Elements (NICE) Workshop on February 27-March 1 in Hillsboro, OR at Intel's Campus. There will be a wide range of invited and accepted abstract presentations at the NICE 2018 conference that will focus on aspects of neuroscience, theories, algorithms for neuromorphic systems that support the overarching workshop theme of new computing methods and new applications. In addition, three new neuromorphic chip architectures - the BrainScaleS-2 chip, the SpiNNaker-2 chip, and the Intel Loihi research chip - will be revealed with demos. Information can be found at: http://niceworkshop.org/2018-nice-workshop/ -------------------------- James Bradley Aimone, Ph.D. Principal Member of Technical Staff Data-driven and Neural Computing Department Center for Computing Research Sandia National Laboratories Phone: (505) 284-3147 Fax: (505) 844-4728 http://neuroscience.sandia.gov

1 0

The Neuron School - Basic Computational Neuroscience in Alghero - ITALY
by Sergio Solinas Feb. 7, 2018

Feb. 7, 2018

**Apologies for cross-posting** [All details about this school can be found online at The NEURON School Initiative <http://neuronschool.uniss.it/>] The Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Sassari is is excited to announce the first edition of The NEURON School on Computational Neuroscience. This *one-week* school will introduce to the use of the simulation environment NEURON and related software to build brain models from experiments to their applications. - The school will provide basic notions on experimental methods to extract and process morphological and electrophysiological data targeting their use to build computational models of single neurons and neuronal networks. - The school will cover how these models can be constructed based on the principles of biological tissue growth in simulations. - The students will also be introduced to recent *in silico* applications of neuronal networks and neuromorphic hardware. We welcome applications from all interested full graduate, PhD students, and PostDocs in a variety of fields from biology, neurobiology and psychology, to physics, engineering, and mathematics, and industry professionals with a relevant background. Applicants are expected to have a good background in their discipline, interest in neuroscience, and some knowledge (even basic) of computer programming. For a quick look at the summer school description, check out this flyer <http://neuronschool.uniss.it/School_Flyer.pdf>. *Format*: Morning tutorials will be complemented with Afternoon coding sessions and Evening discussions promoted by presentations of Senior Scientists. *Date and Location:* April 16th to April 21st, 2018 at the PortoConte Research Center <http://www.portocontericerche.it/en> within the Science and Technology Park of Sardinia and at the Hotel Catalunya <http://www.hotelcatalunya.it/en/>, Alghero - Sardinia (ITALY). Application Deadline: 1st April 2018 *Applications*: Please visit *http://neuronschool.uniss.it/ <http://neuronschool.uniss.it/>*, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, and lodging. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact enrico(a)uniss.it We look forward to your registration and to welcoming you in Alghero!

1 0

Call for papers & tutorials: PRNI (Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging) 2018
by Yuvaraj Rajamanickam (Dr) Feb. 7, 2018

Feb. 7, 2018

****** please accept our apologies for cross-posting ******* -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST CALL FOR PAPERS AND TUTORIALS PRNI 2018: 8th International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging to be held 12-14 June 2018 at the National University of Singapore, Singapore www.prni.org<http://www.prni.org/> - @PRNIworkshop - www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/<http://www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The 8th International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging (PRNI) will be held at the Centre for Life Sciences Auditorium, National University of Singapore, Singapore on June 12-14, 2018.Pattern recognition techniques are an important tool for neuroimaging data analysis. These techniques are helping to elucidate normal and abnormal brain function, cognition and perception, anatomical and functional brain architecture, biomarkers for diagnosis and personalized medicine, and as a scientific tool to decipher neural mechanisms underlying human cognition. The International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging (PRNI) aims to: (1) foster dialogue between developers and users of cutting-edge analysis techniques in order to find matches between analysis techniques and neuroscientific questions; (2) showcase recent methodological advances in pattern recognition algorithms for neuroimaging analysis; and (3) identify challenging neuroscientific questions in need of new analysis approaches. Authors should prepare full papers with a maximum length of 4 pages (two column IEEE style) for double-blind review. The manuscript submission deadline is 04 April 2018, 11:59 pm SGT. Accepted manuscripts will be assigned either to an oral or poster sessions; all accepted manuscripts will be included in the workshop proceedings. Similarly to previous years, in addition to full length papers PRNI will also accept short abstracts (500 words excluding the title, abstract, tables, figure and data legends, and references) for poster presentation. Finally, this year PRNI has an open call for tutorial proposals. A tutorial can take a form of 2h, 4h or whole day event aimed at demonstrating a computational technique, software tool, or specific concept. Tutorial proposals featuring hands on demonstrations and promoting diversity (e.g. gender, background, institution) will be preferred. PRNI will cover conference registration fees for up to two tutors per accepted program. The submission deadline is also 04 April 2018, 11:59 pm SGT. Please see www.prni.org<http://www.prni.org/> and follow @PRNIworkshop and www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/<http://www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/> for news and details. ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY: This email is intended solely for the person(s) named and may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it, notify us and do not copy, use, or disclose its contents. Towards a sustainable earth: Print only when necessary. Thank you.

1 0

Call for Abstracts: International Conference on Complex Systems
by Yaneer Bar-Yam Feb. 6, 2018

Feb. 6, 2018

Please distribute to colleagues and students ********************************************************************** Call for Abstracts Ninth International Conference on Complex Systems (ICCS 2018) Host: New England Complex Systems Institute July 22 - 27, 2018 Hyatt Regency Cambridge, MA, USA ********************************************************************** To register: http://www.necsi.edu/events/iccs2018/ The International Conference on Complex Systems is a unique interdisciplinary forum that unifies and bridges the traditional domains of science and a multitude of real world systems. Participants will contribute and be exposed to mind expanding concepts and methods from across the diverse field of complex systems science. Special Topic - Artificial Intelligence: This year’s conference will include a day on AI, including its development and potential future. This session will be chaired by Iyad Rahwan of MIT's Media Lab. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION AND PROCEEDINGS PUBLICATION: For presentation at the conference, authors should submit an abstract through EasyChair. All the accepted abstracts will be published in the online proceedings on the conference website. Authors of accepted abstracts may submit full papers for inclusion in the online proceedings. Full paper submission is optional. Make sure to register for the conference on our website in addition to submitting to EasyChair. IMPORTANT DATES AND DEADLINES Workshop proposal: February 16, 2018 Abstract submission: February 16, 2018 Notification to authors: March 30, 2018 Early registration: April 13, 2018 Camera-ready abstract & full paper submission: May 4, 2018 (full paper submission is optional) Late abstract submission: June 1, 2018 Conference: July 22-27, 2018 ICCS TOPICS: UNIFYING THEMES IN COMPLEX SYSTEMS Sessions will be structured around both themes and systems. The themes are: • Emergence: The relationship between components and collective properties and behaviors; the relationship of internal structure to external influence; multiscale structure and dynamics; self-similarity and fractals. • Complexity & Information: Defining and measuring complexity; characterizing the information necessary to describe complex systems; structuring, storing, accessing, distributing, visualizing and analyzing information describing complex systems; the dynamics of information and its computational characterization. • Dynamics & Self-Organization: Time series analysis and prediction; nonlinear dynamics and chaos; temporal correlations; the time scale of dynamic processes; spatio-temporal patterns; dynamic scaling; pattern formation; evolution, development and adaptation; interaction between internal dynamics and external inputs; programmability of self-organization. • Structures & Networks: Complex network topologies; multilayer and multiplex networks; dynamical networks; adaptive networks; temporal networks; network modeling and analysis; small-world and scale-free networks; connectivity and centrality; motifs, cliques and communities, modularity, degeneracy, redundancy, and substructure; network visualization. • Methodology: Computer simulation; agent-based modeling; data-driven research; machine learning; artificial intelligence; analytical methods; nonlinear statistics; soft computing; methods and tools for complex systems education. The system categories are: • Mathematical, Physical & Chemical Systems: Non-equilibrium processes; hydrodynamics; glasses; nonlinear chemical dynamics; complex fluids; molecular self-organization; information and computation in quantum and classical physical systems; supramolecular chemistry; spatio-temporal patterns in physical systems from subatomic to astrophysical. • Bio-Molecular & Cellular Systems: Systems biology; protein and DNA folding; bio-molecular informatics; membranes; cellular response and communication; genetic regulation; gene cytoplasm interactions; development; cellular differentiation; primitive multicellular organisms; the immune system; origins of life; biological networks in human health: protein-protein interaction, metabolic and gene regulatory networks; Systems pharmacology. • Physiological & Psychological Systems: Nervous system; sensorimotor systems; computational models of neural and cognitive function; perception, cognition, memory and action; psychological dysfunction; pattern recognition; learning and development; human machine interaction; autonomous mental development; neurocognitive networks. • Organisms & Populations: Population biology; collective behavior of animals; ecosystems; ecology; ecological networks; microbiome; speciation; evolution. • Human Social & Economic Systems: Social networks; socio-technical systems; computational social science; collective intelligence; corporate and social structures and dynamics; organizational behavior and management; urban development; city science; economies and markets; financial systems; risk management; globalization; military systems; global conflicts; social unrest; political networks; interactions between human and natural systems. • Engineered Systems: Design and manufacturing; nano-technology; bioengineering; modified and hybrid biological organisms; computer based interactive systems; multi-agent systems; artificial life; artificial intelligence; robots; communication networks; the Internet; traffic systems; distributed control; resilience; self organizing artifacts; complex systems engineering; biologically inspired engineering; synthetic biology; sensor networks. WORKSHOPS There will be several time slots available during the conference for organizing workshops on specific topics. All the accepted abstracts/papers for the workshops will be included in the conference proceedings as well. If you are interested in organizing a workshop, email the following information to programs(a)necsi.edu by January 19, 2018: • Name(s) and contact information of the workshop organizer(s) • Title of the workshop • A short description of the workshop: (aim, scope, target audience, format and expected outcome) • A list of confirmed and prospective speakers INVITED SPEAKERS Albert-László Barabási (Northeastern University, USA) Cameron Kerry (MIT Media Lab, USA) Nassim Nicholas Taleb (Real World Risk Institute, USA) Stuart Kauffman (Institute for Systems Biology, USA) Peter Turchin (University of Connecticut, USA) Olaf Sporns (Indiana University Network Science Institute, USA) Iyad Rahwan (MIT Media Lab, USA) Sandy Pentland (MIT Media Lab, USA) Irving Epstein (Brandeis University, USA) Simon DeDeo (Carnegie Mellon University, USA) H. Eugene Stanley (Boston University, USA) Stephen Wolfram (Wolfram Research) César Hidalgo (MIT Media Lab, USA) ORGANIZATION Executive Committee Conference Chair Emeritus: Yaneer Bar-Yam (New England Complex Systems Institute, USA) General Chair: Ali A. Minai (University of Cincinnati, USA) Program Chair: Dan Braha (University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, USA) Alfredo J. Morales (New England Complex Systems Institute, USA) Carlos Gershenson (National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico) Special Sessions Chair: Marc Santolini (Northeastern University, USA) Emma Towlson (Northeastern University, USA) Sponsors Chair: Kim Severino (New England Complex Systems Institute, USA) Logistics Chair: Sageet Braha (New England Complex Systems Institute, USA) Elisabeth Perry-Montgomery (New England Complex Systems Institute, USA) Program Committee PC members TBA LOCATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency in Cambridge, Massachusetts, minutes from Boston. Reservations can be made directly with Hyatt reservations at 1-888-421-1442, or online at: https://aws.passkey.com/go/NECSI A block of rooms has been reserved at a conference discount rate starting at $259 + tax per night. Internet access is included. These rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To receive the discount rate identify yourself as a member of ICCS 2018. These rates are available until June 29th, 2018. Cancellations may be made up to 48 hours in advance without penalty. FOR MORE INFORMATION Conference website: necsi.edu/events/iccs2018/ Contact us at programs(a)necsi.edu New England Complex Systems Institute 277 Broadway Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: 617-547-4100 Fax: 617-661-7711 necsi.edu

1 0

Open position: Coordinator Scientific Computing at Research Center Juelich, Germany
by Martina Reske Feb. 6, 2018

Feb. 6, 2018

Dear Comp-Neuro community The Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM) investigates the structure and function of the human brain on different spatial and temporal scales within the research program “Decoding the Human Brain”. The brain’s high complexity and plasticity over the lifespan of an individual, as well as changes during neuropsychiatric disorders, requires the use of innovative imaging methods and supercomputing technology. Basic neuroscience research heavily relies on modeling and simulation, which are necessary to approach the brain’s immense complexity, manage the huge amount of resulting data, and develop reliable control techniques. Acquired knowledge allows for the translation of basic findings into clinical applications to better understand neurological and psychiatric disorders, to refine diagnostic processes, and to develop therapy strategies – crucial tasks we have to face in ageing societies. The department INM-6, Computational and Systems Neuroscience, develops mathematical models of neuronal dynamics and function. We are active in neuromorphic computing and develop simulation technologies and analysis tools. We are looking to recruit a Coordinator Scientific Computing Your Job: * Design and continuous advancement of a roadmap for scientific computing with regard to hard- and software * Designing a cloud infrastructure and digitized workflows in theoretical neuroscience * Studying international developments in hard- and software in the fields of simulation and data science in neuroscience * Planning, purchasing, set-up and management of UNIX, Linux, Mac OS and Windows systems, communication systems and software * Support of institute’s databases and online tools (webdav, git, wordpress, website); user management * Further development of simulation and analysis codes with regard to system near aspects * Measurement of energy-to-solution and time-to-solution of simulations and analysis codes for scientific studies * Direct support of scientists * Participation in working group leaders’ meeting * Participation in relevant IT committees at Forschungszentrum Juelich * Participation in educating staff in HPC aspects Your Profile: * Completed study of informatics, mathematics or physics * Substantial expertise in C, C++ and Python * Substantial knowledge of UNIX, Windows and Mac OS * Experience with administration of HPC clusters, file, web and print servers as well as with parallel computing (ideally in neuroscience) * Beneficial: Basic knowledge of neuroscience concepts * Ability and willingness to work independently and proactively * Confident appearance and ability to work cooperatively in an interdisciplinary environment * Good interpersonal and communication skills * Structured and systematic working style * Fluent in English (spoken and written) Our Offer: * International, interdisciplinary working environment on an attractive research campus, ideally situated between the cities of Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen * A comprehensive further training Programme * Flexible working hours and various opportunities to reconcile work and family life * Limited for 2 years with possible longer-term prospects * Salary and social benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD) Forschungszentrum Jülich aims to employ more women in this area and therefore particulary welcomes applications from women. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. We look forward to receiving your application, preferably online<https://www.hrecruiting.de/obf2/bewerbermanagement.php?kunden_nr=t5ChjatkIf…> via our online recruitment system on our career site, quoting the reference number 2017-321. Contact Human Resource Development and Recruiting Kristin Lux Tel.:+49 2461 61 9700 -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Human Brain Project Innovation Forum and Exhibition, March 22-23rd London
by Tony Prescott Feb. 6, 2018

Feb. 6, 2018

Dear Colleague, I am writing to you as a co-organiser of an Innovation Forum <https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/en/follow-hbp/events/first-annual-hbp-inno…> for the Human Brain Project happening in London on 22nd/23rd March 2018. The goal of the event is to help identify potential paths to impact for neuroscience research, and, more broadly, to show that reverse-engineering the brain, through computational modelling, can help us create new AI technologies and identify new treatments for neurological disorders. For the Innovation Exhibition <https://hbpinnovationexpo.org/>, which will take place at the London Science Museum on Friday 23rd, there are a *limited number of exhibit spaces available* for companies or research groups innovating around brain research. No previous link to the Human Brain Project is required. This is a great opportunity to showcase your research or technology in front of a wide audience including leaders in academia, commerce, and government. Exhibit space is paid for by HBP and exhibitors also receive free registration for upto three people for the Friday event. If you are interested in this opportunity please contact me by email at t.j.prescott(a)sheffield.ac.uk, as soon as possible. Registration <https://onlineshop.shef.ac.uk/conferences-events/faculty-of-engineering/com…> for the two day event is now open with free entry to the exhibition on the Friday afternoon. I hope to see you in London! Best wishes, Tony Prescott Professor of Cognitive Robotics University of Sheffield Co-organiser, HBP Innovation Exhibition P.S. I would be grateful if you could copy this email to any interested colleagues in your organisation.

1 0

PhD position at the University of Leeds
by Yannis Delis Feb. 5, 2018

Feb. 5, 2018

PhD Position: Computational approaches to the neural control of movement We are seeking UK/EU candidates for a fully funded PhD position at the School of Biomedical Sciences of the University of Leeds. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Ioannis Delis and will have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with other members of the Motor Control group. The ideal candidate will have an interest in some of the following areas: Recording and analysis of EMG, EEG and kinematic signals, design of complex behavioral experiments/tasks, biomedical signal processing, machine learning, statistical pattern recognition, cognitive modeling. No extensive previous experience in the above is required. However, a strong propensity for interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in understanding how the brain controls movement as well as extensive programming experience (Matlab and/or Python) is highly desirable. Interested candidates are invited to contact Dr. Ioannis Delis (*i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk <i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk>*) emailing their CV and briefly explaining their interest in this position. Starting date is flexible (September 2018 would be preferred). Project description: The aim of this project is to develop a mathematical analysis framework to a) analyze neurophysiological (EMG/EEG) and behavioural signals (kinematics/accuracy/response time) and b) model sensory-motor behavior in order to understand how the human brain and spinal cord interact with the musculoskeletal system to generate movement. The post holder will have the opportunity to a) develop new advanced methods based on machine learning, signal processing and information theory, b) design and perform behavioural experiments with human subjects and c) analyze experimental data in collaboration with experimental neuroscience laboratories.

1 0

Re: [Comp-neuro] Systems Neuroscience: a study abroad summer program in Budapest
by Érdi Péter Feb. 4, 2018

Feb. 4, 2018

Our Dear Colleagues: BSCS-US announces a study abroad program in Budapest: Systems Neuroscience: a study abroad summer program Program start/end dates June 11th - Aug 3th, 2018 The BSCS Systems Neuroscience Program takes place at and academically supervised by the Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University Medical School, Budapest. Transcript is issued by the Registrar of the Semmelweis University Medical School, and will be sent directly to the Registrar of your college/university. For details, see: http://sysneuro-semester.org/ [sysneuro-semester.org] Inquiry: Program directors / academic supervisors Péter Érdi perdi(a)kzoo.edu László Négyessy <negyessy(a)gmail.com> John Milton <JMilton(a)kecksci.claremont.edu> Office: bscs(a)bscs-us.org With kind regards, Péter Érdi http://people.kzoo.edu/~perdi/ aboutranking.com

1 0

Postdoctoral Position in Electrocorticography at NYU
by Lucia Melloni Feb. 4, 2018

Feb. 4, 2018

Dear All, We have an opening for a POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN ELECTROCORTICOGRAPHY RESEARCH AT NYU. See below for details. Thanks and all the best, Lucia POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN ELECTROCORTICOGRAPHY RESEARCH AT NYU NYU School of Medicine has an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct Human intracranial EEG and electrocortigoraphy (ECoG) research. The postdoctoral researcher will work with the clinical neurology team to conduct neurophysiological research in surgical patients undergoing treatment for refractory epilepsy implanted with intracranial electrodes (surface, depth). Research approaches will include both recording and stimulation. The postdoctoral fellow will be a member of a collaborative team that includes Lucia Melloni (NYU and Max Planck Institute, Frankfurt), Adeen Flinker (NYU), Charan Ranganath (UC Davis), Sam Gershman (Harvard), Ken Norman & Uri Hasson (Princeton), and Jeff Zacks (Washington University). The goal of the research studies will be to use real-time measures of brain activity to investigate how cortico-hippocampal interactions support event segmentation, schema formation, and memory for complex events. The ideal applicant must have a Ph.D. in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in oral and written English is mandatory. A solid background in programming, statistics, and scientific writing is required. The candidate is expected to be able to work independently, to enjoy interacting within an interdisciplinary team, and to have a track-record of peer-reviewed publications. Previous experience with human electrophysiology or machine learning will be an asset. Start date is negotiable. Interested individuals should send an email to lucia.melloni(a)nyumc.org <mailto:lucia.melloni@nyumc.org>, including a cover letter describing research experience and qualifications, an academic CV, and contact information of referees.

1 0

Postdoc/programmer position in reaction-diffusion modeling
by Erik De Schutter Feb. 2, 2018

Feb. 2, 2018

The Computational Neuroscience unit (https://groups.oist.jp/cnu) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan has an opening for a postdoctoral researcher or technician in software development and computational modeling of stochastic neuronal reaction-diffusion processes. Initial duration is two years with an option to extend. The hired postdoctoral researcher or technician is expected to make valuable contributions to the STEPS project (http://steps.sourceforge.net) in two ways: 1) by researching molecular neuronal processes and designing novel techniques and routines for accurate computational modeling of such systems, and 2) contributing to realistic applications of the new techniques in biological modeling studies. In performing these tasks, the candidate is expected to contribute to publications that are either based on theory and computational techniques, or geared more towards answering real biological questions through computational modeling. As such the ideal candidate will have a scientific background but also possess good programming skills. There will be many opportunities to interact with other STEPS developers in our lab and also other researchers working on related cerebellar projects, and also to collaborate on STEPS development with the Blue Brain Project, EPFL, Geneva. Competences: For the postdoctoral position a recent PhD is required in a relevant discipline such as neuroscience, molecular biology, biophysics or biochemistry, and for a technician a masters degree is required in a similar discipline or computer science. For either position, we require a talented programmer with experience in C++ and Python. It is preferred that the candidate has some experience of modeling neuronal or other biological processes computationally, but this is not essential if the candidate has a strong enough interest in moving into the field. Fluent English conversation and writing skills are required. Benefits / Offer: A competitive salary and relocation package are offered. This an ideal position to gain experience in a prominent computational neuroscience lab. Contributions of technicians are honored by authorship on relevant publications. Please contact Prof. Erik De Schutter (erik(a)oist.jp) for inquiries.

1 0

Special Issue on Crossmodal Learning - Extended Deadline
by Pablo Barros Feb. 1, 2018

Feb. 1, 2018

3rd CALL FOR PAPERS (Deadline Extension) Special Issue on Computational Models for Crossmodal Learning of the Cognitive Systems Research Journal. https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/call-for-paper… I. Aim and Scope The ability of processing crossmodal information is a fundamental feature of the brain that provides a robust perceptual experience for an efficient interaction with the environment. Consequently, the integration of multisensory information plays a crucial role in autonomous systems to create robust and meaningful representations of objects and events. For dealing with real-world information, an autonomous, intelligent system must be capable of processing, integrating, and segregating different modalities for the purpose of coherent perception, decision-making, and cognitive learning. Recent neurophysiological findings in crossmodal learning have inspired novel computational models with the aim to trigger biologically inspired behavioral responses. A rich set of neural mechanisms support the integration and segregation of multimodal stimuli, providing the means to efficiently solve conflicts across modalities. This special issue aims to invite contributors from psychology, computational neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and cognitive robotics to discuss current research on crossmodal learning mechanisms both from the theoretical and modelling perspective. II. Potential Topics Topics include, but are not limited to: - New theories and findings on crossmodal processing - New neuroscientific results on crossmodal learning - Machine learning and neural networks for learning multisensory representations - Computational models of crossmodal attention and perception - Brain-inspired approaches for multisensory integration - Multisensory robot perception III. Submission Authors must use the Evise system to submit their contibutions, more informations can be found here: https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/ *All manuscripts must be submitted to the Special Issue "VSI: Crossmodal Learning"* - Paper submission deadline: 19.03.2018 IV. Guest Editors Pablo Barros, University of Hamburg, Germany German I. Parisi, University of Hamburg, Germany Doreen Jirak, Hamburg University, Germany Bruno Fernandes, Universidade de Pernambuco, Brazil -- 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/

1 0

Final Program of the Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuits, Memory and Computation, March 15-16, 2018
by Aurel A. Lazar Jan. 30, 2018

Jan. 30, 2018

http://fruitflybrain.org/workshops.html <https://t.co/mY9aARlYrB> Aurel http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu

1 0

Complex Systems in Neuroscience Conference, Pittsburgh, March 8-10, 2018
by Chengcheng Huang Jan. 30, 2018

Jan. 30, 2018

Dear Colleague, We are pleased to invite you to: *Complex Systems in Neuroscience: Bridging Theory and Experiment* Pittsburgh, USA March 8-10, 2018 This conference is organized by post-doctoral scholars from the Department of Mathematics at the University of Pittsburgh. In this three-day conference, we will bring together theorists and experimentalists from numerous disciplines who seek to understand how properties of neural networks and individual neurons translate into brain function and behavior. In order to encourage interaction and discussion, the conference will involve a series of lectures from renowned scientists, as well as shorter presentations by junior researchers. *Speakers:* Andrea Barreiro (Southern Methodist University) Maxim Bazhenov (University of California San Diego) Paul Bressloff (University of Utah) Nicolas Brunel (Duke University) Carina Curto (Pennsylvania State University) Stefano Fusi (Columbia University) Mark Goldman (University of California Davis) Viktor Jirsa (CNRS, France) Stephanie Jones (Brown University) Juan Restrepo (University of Colorado Boulder) Tatyana Sharpee (Salk Institute) Misha Tsodyks (Weizmann Institute, Israel) The lectures will be held in Ballroom A of the University Club, 123 University Pl, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260 <https://maps.google.com/?q=123+University+Pl,+Pittsburgh,+PA,+15260&entry=g…> . Attendance is free and open to all, however, all attendees are required to register <http://www.pitt.edu/~huangc/csneuro2018/> online. For further information, please visit the conference website: http://www.pitt.edu/~huangc/csneuro2018/. This event is sponsored jointly by the Mathematics Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh, the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, and the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications. Sincerely, Drs. Hannah Bos, James Hengenius, Chengcheng Huang, Ryan Phillips, Yury Sokolov, Rashid Williams-Garcia and Dan Wilson Conference Organizers Department of Mathematics University of Pittsburgh

1 0

NIMH is Recruiting a Review Branch Chief
by Michele Ferrante Jan. 30, 2018

Jan. 30, 2018

*Please feel free to share with folks who might have interest.* *NIMH is Recruiting a Review Branch Chief* The NIMH Division of Extramural Activities (DEA) is recruiting for the Chief, Extramural Review Branch, DEA. This position is a Supervisory Health Scientist Administrator, GS-601-15. As with many other ICs, NIMH will seek to fill this position via the Global Announcement, which opened yesterday (1/29/2018) and closes on Wednesday, 2/7/2018. USAJOBS announcement - open to FEDERAL staff <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489593400> USAJOBS announcement, open to all <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489599300> The Extramural Review Branch is responsible for planning, conducting and coordinating the scientific and technical merit review of grant applications assigned to the Institute for its review and for assuring that these reviews are of a uniformly high quality. As an expert Scientific Review Officer, the Branch Chief assumes responsibility for administering the review of applications. Utilizing scientific knowledge and expertise to perform a variety of management functions associated with review of NIMH research and research training support activities, the Branch Chief will also manage the initial scientific and administrative review of certain center or program project grant applications, as well as research project applications submitted in response to requests for applications, multicenter clinical trial applications, and/or contract proposals assigned to NIMH. Specific supervisory responsibilities include integrating and coordinating the work of professional employees who serve as Scientific Review Officers (SROs) who are charged with overseeing the work of Special Emphasis Panels and the Mental Health Services Research Committee, Program Specialists who provide organizational support for planning and analyzing review activities, and Extramural Support Assistants (ESAs) charged with providing logistical and administrative support to SROs. Please contact Meena Hiremath (meenaxi.hiremath(a)nih.gov) if you have any questions about the Branch Chief position. If you have additional questions, please email NIMHSearch(a)mail.nih.gov. Regards, Michele ----- Michele Ferrante <michele.ferrante(a)nih.gov>, PhD Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience <http://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization/dnbbs/behavioral-science-and-int…> & Computational Psychiatry <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization/dtr/adult-psychopathology-and-p…> NIMH Ph. 301-435-6782 <(301)%20435-6782> | WebEx <https://nih.webex.com/join/ferrantemnih.gov> | 6001 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852, Office # 7202

1 0

NIMH Program Officer Position Announcement
by Michele Ferrante Jan. 30, 2018

Jan. 30, 2018

Dear computationally-friendly colleagues, You are our strongest referral source. I am sharing with you the announcement for NIH Program Officer and ask that you share this with your colleagues that may be interested in serving as an extramural program officer (also known as Health Scientist Administrator). The NIH Global Vacancy Announcement for Health Scientist Administrator/Program Officer is now open to the public. NIMH is looking for Program Officers to fill several critical program in the NIMH extramural programs. To be considered for this position, applicants must possess an M.D., Ph.D., or equivalent experience. The links below will take interested candidates to the USAJobs link. Applications will be accepted from *January 29, 2018 - February 7, 2018* through the links below. Please share this information with those who may be interested in applying. If you have additional questions, please email NIMHsearch(a)mail.nih.gov. ************************************ *Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) Links*:* - Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-12/13/14 - DE <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489598400> - Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-12/13/14 - MP <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489591800> - Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-15 – DE <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489597400> - *Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-15 – MP <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489597400>* - Supervisory Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-15 - DE <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489595200> - Supervisory Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) GS-601-15 – MP <https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/489592900> **DE = Delegated Examining position open to U.S. Citizens (public announcement)* **MP = Merit Promotion position open to federal employees only.* **************************************************************** Regards, Michele ----- Michele Ferrante <michele.ferrante(a)nih.gov>, PhD Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience <http://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization/dnbbs/behavioral-science-and-int…> & Computational Psychiatry <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization/dtr/adult-psychopathology-and-p…> NIMH Ph. 301-435-6782 <(301)%20435-6782> | WebEx <https://nih.webex.com/join/ferrantemnih.gov> | 6001 Executive Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852, Office # 7202

1 0

Reminder: Call for Workshops - Bernstein Conference 2018
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder Jan. 30, 2018

Jan. 30, 2018

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops directly preceding the Bernstein Conference 2018 in Berlin. ************************************************************** Important Dates: Satellite Workshops: September 25 - 26, 2018 Main Bernstein Conference: September 26 - 28, 2018 Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: March 15, 2018 Notification of Workshop acceptance: April 2018 ************************************************************** Since 2013, the Bernstein Conference hosts pre-conference workshops which provide a stage to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches and challenges in Computational Neuroscience and related fields. Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster debate, rather than a mere series of talks. The selection criteria for Workshop proposals will include scientific excellence, topical relevance and gender diversity. The Bernstein Conference started out as the annual meeting of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience and has become the largest annual single-track Computational Neuroscience conference in Europe in recent years. Satellite Workshop schedule: September 25, 2018, 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm September 26, 2018, 8:30 am - noon Workshop proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. Workshop costs – FINANCIAL SUPPORT: All organizers and speakers of accepted workshops will receive a waiver for the workshop fee. Organizers of accepted workshops additionally receive a waiver for the main conference. Up to 10 selected workshops can receive financial support up to 1.500,00 € each. For further information about the conference, please visit the conference website http://www.bernstein-conference.de. INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSAL PREPARATION Workshop proposals must contain: 1) Workshop Title 2) Concise description of workshop topic 3) List of potential speakers indicating speaker commitment 4) Optional: a comment on how the organizers plan to achieve gender diversity among speakers Please use the Workshop Proposal Form that can be downloaded here: http://www.nncn.de/de/bernstein-conference/2018/satellite-workshops Deadline for submission of Workshop proposals: March 15, 2018 CONTACT: bernstein.network(at)fz-juelich.de We are looking forward to seeing you in Berlin! WORKSHOP SELECTION COMMITTEE: Jakob Macke (Workshop Chair) Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Workshop Vice Chair) Axel Borst Nicolas Brunel Anne Churchland Claudia Clopath Gaute Einevoll Adrienne Fairhall Gilles Laurent (Program Chair) Mate Lengyel Elad Schneidman Susanne Schreiber (Program Vice Chair) Terry Sejnowski Henning Sprekeler (Conference Host) Fred Wolf -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

PhD AND POSTDOC POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT ENS, PARIS
by Rava A. da Silveira Jan. 29, 2018

Jan. 29, 2018

*Several DOCTORAL and POSTDOCTORAL openings in the group of RAVA AZEREDO DA SILVEIRA at the Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris* We will be hiring several Ph.D. students and postdocs to work on an array of projects on computation and coding in neural circuits. The projected studies range from the modeling of computations in retinal circuits, to the analysis of large sets of retinal and cortical data, to the investigations of mathematical models of coding. Some of the projects will be set in close collaboration with the experimental labs of Botond Roska (FMI, Basel) and Andreas Hierlemann (ETH, Basel); they will involve the study of mouse retina and cortex, primate retina, and human retina, and questions on the representation and transformation of sensory inputs in populations of neurons. Experience with data analysis and proficiency with numerical methods and programming, in addition to familiarity with neuroscience topics and mathematical and statistical methods, are desirable. Equally desirable are a spirit of intellectual adventure as well as drive and eagerness. The ENS, together with a number of neighboring institutions (College de France, Institut Curie, ESPCI, Paris Science et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, and Institut Pasteur), offers a rich scientific and intellectual environment, with a strong representation in computational neuroscience and related fields. Doctoral and postdoctoral salaries will be competitive, appreciably higher than standard French salaries. Depending on their projects, Ph.D. students and postdocs may wish to spend a fraction of their time in Basel, Switzerland, which features a first-rate community of researchers in experimental neuroscience. To apply, please send a letter of motivation, a statement of research interests limited to two pages, a curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and any relevant publications to rava(a)ens.fr, and arrange for three letters of recommendations to be sent to the same address. For full consideration, please apply by 1 March 2018.

1 0

Register to ENCODS 2018 - FENS satellite Event
by Encods2018 Organising Committee Jan. 29, 2018

Jan. 29, 2018

European Conference by Doctoral Students in FENS You still have time until January 31st to register to ENCODS 2018! Don't stay out of this unique experience for doctoral students. Please find below all the information you need to register. Dear fellow Neuroscience PhD students, We are pleased to invite you toENCODS 2018. We are a conference organised for and by doctoral students and a partner of FENS (Federation of European Neurosciences). ENCODS is a well-established international conference that started 2013 in Bordeaux and has since grown to become a leading event inspiring young scientists in the field of neuroscience. We aim to increase scientific exchange by bringing together young researchers, established scientists and visionaries. This new edition ofENCODS 2018 in Berlin, Germany is designed to move beyond the at times rigid speaker-audience concept by including a wide range of original activities to create a dynamic environment for new ideas and networking among scientists. What? ENCODS – the European Neuroscience Conference by Doctoral Students When? 5^th-6^th July 2018 Where? Berlin, Germany Who? Doctoral students from every discipline within the field of neuroscience How? Register for ENCODS 2018 at https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i… Please note that registration will open from 1^st December 2017 - 31^st January 2018. Registration fee waivers and travel grants are available, pending availability and application approval. For more information about us and our programme take a look at our poster (attached) or visit us in our social media: https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i… https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i… https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i… We look forward to seeing you there! The ENCODS 2018 Berlin Team ============================================================ ** (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i…) ** (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i…) ** (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i…) ** (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i…) Copyright © 2018 Encods2018, All rights reserved. You are receiving this e-mail because you were interested to participate in ENCODS2017 Our mailing address is: Encods2018 Philippstr. 13 Building 4 (Ostertaghaus) Berlin 10115 Germany Want to change how you receive these emails? You can ** update your preferences (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/profile?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&id=07…) or ** unsubscribe from this list (https://fens.us17.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=6fe5b340a4b3a8c1ae5a27047&i…) . Email Marketing Powered by MailChimp http://www.mailchimp.com/monkey-rewards/?utm_source=freemium_newsletter&utm…

1 0

Two Postdoc positions in Muenster, Germany
by Joachim Gross Jan. 26, 2018

Jan. 26, 2018

The Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis at University of Muenster invites applications for a Research associate/Postdoctoral scientist (f/m) Ref.: 01689 Full-Time with 38,5 (hours/week) (Germany salary grade: E 13 TV-L, 100%) Two positions are intramurally funded and available for 2 years. We are searching for trained and highly motivated scientists holding a PhD or MD degree and having experience in electrophysiology, cognitive neuroimaging or similar disciplines. The successful candidates are expected to have a strong publication record in international peer-reviewed journals. The research project requires acquisition of MEG data and analysis of neuronal oscillations and their relationship to behaviour. Therefore, experience with MEG/EEG, programming and spectral analysis is essential. The successful applicants will join a dynamic team of both experienced and junior researchers with many national and international collaborations and a sustained record of high-quality research output. For more information please contact Prof Dr Joachim Gross, University of Muenster, Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis, 48149 Münster, Germany, Email:. Joachim.Gross(at)wwu(dot)de Please send your application (including the above reference number) with all relevant information (CV, cover letter) by email (PDF-file, max. 5 MB) until 11.02.2018 to: bewerbung(at)ukmuenster(dot)de Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. _________________________________________ Prof Dr Joachim Groß Director of Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis University of Muenster/Glasgow Phone:+49-251-8356865 [University of Glasgow: The Times Scottish University of the Year 2018]

1 0

2 year post-doc position, LMU Munich, (PI / B. Bahrami )
by Deroy, Ophelia Jan. 26, 2018

Jan. 26, 2018

Applications are sought for a 2-year post-doctoral researcher, to be based at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich (Germany), working at the Faculty of Psychology with Dr.Bahador Bahrami Webpage : http://www.psy.lmu.de/exp/people/ma/bahrami/index.html The successful candidate will join a multi-disciplinary project involving Bahador Bahrami (UCL/LMU), Ophelia Deroy (LMU), Chris D. Frith (University of London) and Peter Latham (Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, UCL) aiming to examine the cognitive and computational bases of collective decisions under uncertainty. Requirements: The successful candidate will have (i) a strong background in quantitative methods (computational neuroscience, statistics, physics, machine learning) (ii) interest in interdisciplinary projects (iii) a PhD in physics (eg complex systems), psychology (cognitive or social), behavioural economics or neuroscience (behavioural, systems). Knowledge of experimental design, statistics and data analysis is expected. Strong command of linear algebra, probability theory, computer programming (web- based platforms (e.g. Java) and/or Python, Matlab) is highly desirable. The position is for two years,with an intermediate evaluation for satisfactory performance. The appointment will be made within the German TV-L E 13 salary scheme. If interested, please contact bbahrami(a)gmail.com for preliminary inquiries. Full advert: http://www.philosophie.uni-muenchen.de/lehreinheiten/phil_of_mind/personen/…

1 0

POSTDOC OFFER in Theoretical Neurosciences (FUNDED BY THE HBP : SP4 (theory))
by Romain Veltz Jan. 26, 2018

Jan. 26, 2018

Dear all, We are offering a two-year postdoc position to work within the Inria MathNeuro team <https://team.inria.fr/mathneuro/> (Sophia Antipolis, France) on Mean-field descriptions or thermodynamics limits of large populations of neurons. We are particularly interested to study multiple-time scale phenomena within this framework. The position is within the SP4 (Theory) of the HBP <https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/en/>. Candidates should have a background in mathematics or physics. Of particular to us are familiarity of the candidate with slow-fast dynamical systems, singular perturbation theory, bifurcation theory, probability theory, and a strong interest in applying these theories to neuroscience. Ability and willingness to do programming will also be a strong point to select candidates. They will be expected to interact with other participants of SP4 as well as with some participants of SP3. Interested candidates should send a CV and a short research proposal regarding the proposed topic (maximum one page) to one of the following address: mathieu.desroches(a)inria.fr <mailto:mathieu.desroches@inria.fr>, olivier.faugeras(a)inria.fr <mailto:olivier.faugeras@inria.fr>, romain.veltz(a)inria.fr <mailto:romain.veltz@inria.fr> Deadline for applying: 28 February 2018. Expected start date: 1st June 2018. Best regards Romain Veltz MathNeuro Project Team Inria Sophia Antipolis Méditerranée 2004 Route des Lucioles-BP 93 FR-06902 Sophia Antipolis Tel: +33 4 92 38 76 90 http://romainveltz.pythonanywhere.com/

1 0

Special issue "An ecological perspective on decision-making"
by Davidson, Jacob Jan. 26, 2018

Jan. 26, 2018

Hi Everyone, I want to let you know about a special issue I am co-editing, in the journal Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution: An Ecological Perspective on Decision-Making: Empirical and Theoretical Studies in Natural and Natural-Like Environments<https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/7283/an-ecological-perspective-…> Abstract submission deadline: 31 May 2018 Feel free to email me if you have questions and/or think about submitting something. Call for papers This Research Topic aims to connect quantitative behavioral analysis, individual cognition and decision-making, and neural-inspired models, with ecologically-relevant behavior such as foraging, nest and mate choice, predator avoidance, social interactions, and migration. Behavior is influenced by many factors in a dynamic environment. In contrast, laboratory tasks are often designed to eliminate parameters that could influence behavior, to generate data that fit existing models. Challenges in observing and quantifying behavior in natural situations have made it difficult to develop associated theoretical models, and to relate decision mechanisms to ecological and evolutionary mechanisms. However, recent advances in data acquisition technology, computer vision, behavioral modeling, and machine learning are changing this, by facilitating the collection and efficient processing of large amounts of data to extract relevant behavior and environmental details. New theoretical tools and methods are needed to analyze and model such data and to understand animal behavior in complex, ecologically relevant settings. This topic invites submissions that use theory and experiment to investigate behavioral choices relevant to an animal’s natural environment, and to link levels of organization of behavioral processes, from the neurobiological to individual to group and system-level. To understand how natural selection has shaped animal behavior and decision-making, it is crucial to link behavior in ecologically-relevant tasks with both the underlying neurobiological mechanisms, and the environmental context. Decision making has been a major focus in the systems and cognitive neuroscience community because it bridges sensory, motor, and executive functions. Important advances have been made in understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of decision-making, using neuronal recordings of animals as they engage in laboratory tasks such as the two-alternative forced choice task, and stochastic modeling of the decision processes. However, the day-to-day decisions made by an animal can be quite different from those made in idealized lab conditions. Choices are often made sequentially ("stay-or-go") instead of between simultaneous alternatives. Behavioral responses tend to be specific to a particular environmental context. Because the outcome of behavior influences an animal's survival and reproduction, evolution shapes behavior to perform in an animal's natural environment. Thus many decision strategies can only be understood in a particular ecological context. For example, context- or state-dependent decisions may be an appropriate strategy in a changing and uncertain environment, but are sub-optimal in a static context. Moreover, since decisions are constrained by an individual's underlying neurobiological circuitry and cognitive abilities, some decision-making mechanisms are the result of evolutionary history, conserved across different species. This interdisciplinary Research Topic aims to connect theorists and experimentalists studying decision-making in ecologically-relevant contexts. This work spans the fields of ecology, neuroscience, psychology, animal behavior, behavioral economics, computer science, mathematics and physics. Topics include, but are not limited to, foraging, habitat and mate choice, social relationships, perception-based decision modeling, quantitative behavioral analysis, and evolutionary studies. Both theoretical and experimental studies are welcome, and studies that combine both are especially encouraged. Cheers, Jacob -- Dr. Jacob Davidson Postdoctoral researcher Department Collective Behaviour Max Planck Institute for Ornithology jdavidson(a)orn.mpg.de<mailto:jdavidson@orn.mpg.de>

1 0

Master in Brain and Cognition, Barcelona, Spain
by Ruben Moreno Bote Jan. 25, 2018

Jan. 25, 2018

Dear Comp-neuro members, The Master in Brain and Cognition being offered at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain (http://www.upf.edu/mbc/) opens the rolling application period (final deadline is June 2018). The core of the master's programme is composed of the research groups at UPF's Center for Brain and Cognition (http://cbc.upf.edu) In this email, we emphasize the possibility of participation of outstanding candidates with strong quantitative background, such as physics, mathematics or machine learning eager to learn about computational and cognitive neuroscience. Candidates with these backgrounds could perform research activity with the following experts in computational neuroscience: Gustavo Deco (http://cns.upf.edu/) Albert Compte (http://complab.fcrb.es/complab/pres) Rubén Moreno-Bote (https://portal.upf.edu/web/ruben-moreno-bote) Overall, the groups participating at the Master are directed by renowned scientists in areas such as computational neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, psycholinguistics, vision, multisensory perception, human development and comparative cognition http://cbc.upf.edu/node/498 Students will be exposed to the ongoing research projects at the Center for Brain and Cognition and will be integrated in one of its main research lines, where they will conduct original research for their final project. Please visit the Master’s web page or contact masters.dtic(a)upf.edu for further information. Scientific-related questions such as fit of quantitative backgrounds can be consulted to Rubén Moreno-Bote, ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu Best, Rubén -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella, Building 24, office 331 Ramon Trias Fargas, 24-27 08005 Barcelona, Spain http://www.upf.edu/pdi/ruben-moreno-bote

1 0

Scientist I/II in modeling visual behavior in mice at Allen Institute
by Stefan Mihalas Jan. 25, 2018

Jan. 25, 2018

We are seeking to fill a position at the level of Scientist to work on computational and neuronal models of visually guided behavior. We use mouse vision as a model system. The Allen Institute for Brain Science is engaged in a major effort to quantitatively characterize the choices, states and neuronal activity during a set of visually guided behaviors. This position will focus on constructing simple models of behavior and neuronal activity, focused on understanding the computations implemented by the visual circuits. In addition, this position will also participate in team efforts of data analysis of both the behavioral and neuronal measurements. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Construct models of computations during a visually guided behavior. * Analyze how activities in the simulated networks related to the observed ones. * Participate in team efforts to analyze behavioral data. * Interact with groups performing simulations at other levels of resolution and with experimental groups. * Maintain clear and accurate communication with supervisor and team members. * Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS * PhD degree in computational neuroscience, physics, mathematics, applied mathematics or related field. * Strong background in scientific computing is required. * Strong publication record. * Strong background in scientific computing is required. * Experience in computational neuroscience is preferred. SCIENTIST I: 0-2 years postdoctoral experience in computational science SCIENTIST II: 3+ years postdoctoral experience in computational science PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: * Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment. * Proven independent thinking and flexibility. * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Experience in pursuing research projects in collaborative fashion. Our mission at the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human brain works in health and disease. By implementing a team science approach on a large scale, we strive to generate useful public resources, drive technological innovations and discover fundamental brain properties through integration of experiments, modeling and theory. Stefan Mihalas Assistant Investigator Allen Institute for Brain Science www.alleninstitute.org<http://www.alleninstitute.org/> Affiliate Assistant Professor Department of Applied Mathematics University of Washington Shawn Olsen Assistant Investigator Allen Institute for Brain Science www.alleninstitute.org<http://www.alleninstitute.org/> Affiliate Assistant Professor Physiology and Biophysics University of Washington

1 0

BGSMath Postdoctoral position on Dynamical Systems/Mathematical Neuroscience
by Toni Guillamon Jan. 24, 2018

Jan. 24, 2018

The Barcelona Graduate School of Mathematics has opened a call forone *“Banco de Santander – María de Maetzu” postdoctoral position* to work on *Dynamical Systems*. In particular, applications within *Mathematical Neuroscience* are very welcome. If the application is successful, the applicant will be hosted by the group on Mathematical Neuroscience at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), see https://mat-web.upc.edu/people/antoni.guillamon/Team/MathNeuroAtUPC.html. All the information about this position can be found at https://bgsmath.cat/event/bgsmath-banco-de-santander-postdoctoral-call-2017/ (see also an excerpt below). Please note that the deadline is *January 31st*. Interested applicants, please contact Toni Guillamon at antoni.guillamon(a)upc.edu. Best wishes, Toni Guillamon ***************************************************** Description Duration: Two-year position (full-time; 37.5 hour working week). Expected starting date is 1 September 2018. Gross salary: 26,250 euros/year. Research funds: Up to 2,000 euros/year. Medical insurance: Medical coverage for fellow and family through Spanish public health system. Requirements * PhD obtained between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2015. The official date of the degree is considered to be the defense and approval date of the PhD thesis. * In the case of applicants with disabilities, the PhD degree could have been obtained between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2015. * Career breaks will be taken into account to extend the lower date limit for obtaining the PhD degree. The career breaks can be due to family care or sick leave. These breaks should have taken place between 1 January 2012 and 17 January 2018 (as stated in article 74.3.b of BOE of 7 December 2017). * A minimum of 1 year of research work experience as PhD or postdoc outside BGSMath.

1 0

Reminder: Upcoming Gordon Research Conference on Neuroelectronic Interfaces
by Ulrich G. Hofmann Jan. 24, 2018

Jan. 24, 2018

Dear colleagues, as the number of participants is limited and the conference is filling up fast, do not forget to apply in time for the Gordon Research Conference on Neuroelectronic Interfaces: Beyond Feasibility - Bridging the Gap in Neuroelectronic Interfaces. (https://www.grc.org/neuroelectronic-interfaces-conference/2018/ <https://www.grc.org/neuroelectronic-interfaces-conference/2018/>) from March 25th to 30th at the Hotel Galvez, Galveston, TX. The conference is dedicated with very high profile speakers and open, off-the-record discussions to tackle the reported inability of penetrating brain implants to consistently record high quality neural signals over clinically relevant time frames. Looking forward to see you there! uli hofmann Ulrich G. Hofmann, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. habil., Peter-Osypka-Professor Chair Gordon Research Conference on Neuroelectronic Interfaces March 25-30 2018, Galveston TX http://www.grc.org/programs.aspx?id=17731 Medical Center -University of Freiburg Department of Neurosurgery Section for Neuroelectronic Systems Engesserstr. 4, 79108 Freiburg, Germany

1 0

Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2018: submission deadline next week
by Erik De Schutter Jan. 24, 2018

Jan. 24, 2018

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2018 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 25 to July 12, 2018 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 25th through July 12th, 2018 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc) only; January 1 - February 3, 2018. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 15th OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and provides partial travel support. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Maxim Bazhenov (University of California San Diego, USA) • Michael Brecht (Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Germany) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Shaul Druckmann (Janelia Research Campus, USA) • Karl Friston (Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, UCL, UK) • Wulfram Gerstner (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland) • Michele Giugliano (University of Antwerp, Belgium) • Mitsuo Kawato (ATR, Japan) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Kazuhisa Shibata (Nagoya University, Japan) • Olaf Sporns (Indiana University, USA) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Tatjana Tchumatchenko (MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany) • Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova (University of Exeter, UK) • Yoko Yazaki-Sugiyama (OIST)

1 0

PhD position for classification of affective states using EEG and eye tracking in the context of a training task.
by Yannick Roy Jan. 24, 2018

Jan. 24, 2018

PhD position for classification of affective states using EEG and eye tracking in the context of a training task. Description: Faubert Lab is looking for a PhD student to work on the detection and classification of affective states with EEG and eye tracking data during pilot training tasks. The PhD student will explore both online and offline solutions as well as traditional machine learning and novel deep learning approaches. The classification of affective states using EEG and eye tracking is one component of a bigger project and, therefore, the PhD student will work with other PhD and master students all responsible for different aspects of the project. Requirements: Faubert Lab expertise is in vision and perception and we are looking for someone with programming skills coming from a technical background such as engineering or computer science. Preferably with experience in machine learning and/or deep learning. Working conditions: This project is part of an NSERC industrial collaborative research and development grant with CAE, a world leader in flight simulation and training. This is a fully funded position: $21k / year for 3 years. Please send a curriculum vitae and a letter outlining research experience and career goals to faubertlab [at] opto.umontreal.ca For more information on Faubert Lab (University of Montreal), please visit http://faubertlab.com/ We thank all applicants for applying for this position, but only those considered for an interview will be contacted. -Yannick PhD Student, Faubert Lab University of Montreal

1 0

COSYNE 2018: Registration, Hotels, Cosyne tutorial session
by Tomas Hromadka Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2018 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 01 - 04 March 2018 Denver, Colorado WORKSHOPS 05 - 06 March 2018 Breckenridge, Colorado www.cosyne.org ==================================================== ---------------------------------------------------- REGISTRATION AND HOTELS ---------------------------------------------------- Online registration for Cosyne is currently open. Please note that presenting authors must register for the main meeting by 31 January 2018. Early online registration deadline 06 February 2018, 2017, 11.59PM EST Hotel booking for Cosyne is currently open. Please note that deadlines for reduced hotel rates are fast approaching. For more detailed information on Cosyne registration and accommodation, please visit Cosyne.org -> Registration and Cosyne.org -> Hotels. ---------------------------------------------------- TRAVEL DISCOUNTS ---------------------------------------------------- For details on discounts for various travel options to and from Cosyne 2018, please visit Cosyne.org -> Transportation. ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE TUTORIAL SESSION ---------------------------------------------------- This year, Cosyne is hosting its first tutorial session, sponsored by the Simons Foundation. The tutorial on "Statistical models for neural data: from GLMs to latent variables" will be given by Jonathan Pillow on 01 March 2018, before the main meeting starts. Space is limited. You can register for the tutorial when registering for the main meeting. For details on the tutorial and registration, see Cosyne.org -> Tutorial and Cosyne.org -> Registration. ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. For details on workshop proposals please see below or visit Cosyne.org -> Workshops. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, and computation with spiking networks. We would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. COSYNE SPEAKERS Tim Behrens (Oxford) Josh Berke (UCSF) Tiago Branco (UCL) Jessica Cardin (Yale) Claudia Clopath (Imperial) Marlene Cohen (Pittsburgh) Iain Couzin (Max-Planck) Carina Curto (Penn State) Ann Graybiel (MIT) Vivek Jayaraman (Janelia) Mate Lengyel (Cambridge) Joni Wallis (Berkeley) Byron Yu (CMU) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Ilana Witten (Princeton) and Eric Shea-Brown (U Washington) Program Chairs: Linda Wilbrecht (Berkeley) and Brent Doiron (U Pittsburgh) Workshop Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU) and Ralf Haefner (U Rochester) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Robert Wilson (U Arizona) Publicity Chair: Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org COSYNE MAILING LISTS Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> Mailing lists for details.

1 0

Postdoc at Harvard (Drugowitsch Lab) in computational neuroscience
by Jan Drugowitsch Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

Location: Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA Start: April 2018 or after We are looking for a highly creative and motivated postdoctoral fellow to work in the field of computational and systems neuroscience in the group of Jan Drugowitsch - Department of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School (http://neuro.hms.harvard.edu/people/faculty/jan-drugowitsch) The group works on questions of decision-making and navigation under uncertainty, ranging from the level of neural populations to that of behavior. In the short term, the postdoctoral fellow is expected to design and analyze behavioral and neural models of decision-making that are gauged against data from human subjects, collected by the laboratory of Dr. Wyart at École Normale Supérieure, Paris. In the long term, close interaction and collaboration with other members of the department is anticipated. Candidates should have a strong analytical background, such as in computational neuroscience, physics, mathematics, engineering, or related, and feature an interest in the role of computation in neural populations and in theoretical neuroscience in general. Experience or familiarity with related machine-learning fields is also desirable. Previous experience should include sufficient programming skills to run numerical simulations, Bayesian methods, and expertise in the analysis of dynamical systems. The position starts in or after April 2018, and is funded for several years, with an initial one-year appointment and expectation of extension given satisfactory performance. Salary depends on experience and is at levels above the NIH scale. Candidates should send a single pdf file, consisting of a 1-page motivation letter, CV, and publication list to jan_drugowitsch(a)hms.harvard.edu. Furthermore, candidates should organize two letters of reference, to be sent to the same e-mail address. The position is open until filled. Dr. Drugowitsch will be available at the Computational and Systems Neuroscience Conference (Cosyne), to take place March 1-6, for questions and further information about the opening. Harvard is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Jan Drugowitsch Assistant Professor in Neurobiology Harvard Medical School https://drugowitschlab.hms.harvard.edu/

1 0

postdoc in depression DBS at Georgia Tech
by Christopher Rozell Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

A postdoc position at the intersection of computational neuroscience, clinical neuropsychiatry and data analysis is available working jointly with the labs of Christopher Rozell and Robert Butera at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, GA). This BRAIN Initiative research project seeks to develop electrophysiological biomarkers to characterize disease progression and optimize deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment-resistant depression. This clinically-focused project (clinical lead is Dr. Helen Mayberg) is a collaboration with Emory University and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai that is providing access to one-of-a-kind human electrophysiology data recorded by implanted DBS devices *during therapy* in an experimental trial. The role of our computational team is to develop analysis and modeling approaches to identify electrophysiological signatures that correlate with treatment response and optimize stimulation parameters. This is an opportunity to work on a challenging scientific problem with real impact on a sick patient population. Applicants should hold a PhD in a related discipline with a strong research record. Experience in advanced techniques for analyzing time-series data (e.g., signal processing and machine learning) is desirable, additional experience in computational neuroscience modeling and working with neurophysiology data is helpful . The labs are committed to the professional development of the members, making it valuable preparation for people who are interested in academic, industrial or entrepreneurial careers. The position has no mandatory teaching or administrative duties. Excellent (written and oral) communication skills in English are required. The ideal start date is May 2018. The position is initially for 12 months with the possibility of renewal. Compensation will be commensurate with relevant experience. Georgia Tech has competitive benefits (including comprehensive medical insurance) and is an equal opportunity employer. Georgia Tech's campus in the heart of midtown Atlanta, which is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas (and entrepreneurial communities) in the United States. Atlanta boasts a wide range of opportunities for recreation, culture, and easy access to domestic and international transportation. Candidates should send a CV, a statement of research experience and interests, expected date of availability, and the contact information for three references to christopher.thomas(a)ece.gatech.edu with the subject line "Neuro DBS postdoc". Application review will proceed until the position is filled and should be received by February 19, 2018 for full consideration.

1 0

Deadline extension for ICMNS 2018: February 4
by Etienne Tanre Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

Dear all, Under popular and friendly pressure, we have decided to extend the abstract submission deadline for ICMNS 2018 <http://icmns2018.inria.fr/>: Submissions <http://icmns2018.inria.fr/submission/> are opened until Sunday February 4, 23.59 (GMT + 1). We hope to see you in Juan les Pins in June 2018. All the best, Susanne Ditlevsen Bard Ermentrout Etienne Tanré > > ============ > FIRST CALL > ============ > > We are delighted to announce the 4th International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS 2018), to be held at the Congress Center in Juan-les-Pins, on the French Riviera. > Tutorials will be held on June 10, and the main conference is June 11 - June 13. > More details are given on the conference website: > > https://icmns2018.inria.fr <https://icmns2018.inria.fr/> > > The International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience will provide a forum for researchers to discuss current mathematical innovations emerging in neuroscience. > A major aim of the conference is to attract and train young researchers on current methods in mathematical neuroscience. > To fulfill this goal, we will hold a tutorial the day before the main meeting. > The main conference will feature a broader set of topics in mathematical neuroscience, with a focus on > (a) the use of experimental data in modeling studies; > (b) theory and models that explore hypotheses and design better experiments; > (c) rigorous mathematical models of neural systems; > (d) improved methods for analyzing complex data sets. > > Abstract Submission: > We encourage abstract submission by researchers from all areas of mathematical neuroscience. > One page abstracts will be reviewed by the Program Committee and divided into parallel talk sessions and poster sessions. > > Details will be given on the web site <https://icmns2018.inria.fr/>. > > The abstract submission <http://icmns2018.inria.fr/submission/> deadline is January 23, 2018. > > Student Awards: > We offer student awards. To apply, students must submit an abstract and include a current CV as part of their submitted document in Easychair <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=icmns2018>. > > Program Committee > Daniele Avitabile (Univ. of Nottingham, UK) > Nicolas Brunel (Duke Univ., USA) > Carina Curto (Pennsylvania State Univ., USA) > Rodica Curtu (Univ. of Iowa, USA) > Mathieu Desroches (Inria Sophia-Antipolis, France) > Lubomir Kostal (Inst. of Physiology, Czech Republic) > Carlo Laing (Massey Univ., New Zealand) > Benjamin Lindner (Bernstein C. for Comp. Neuroscience Berlin, Germany) > Eva Löcherbach (Univ. Cergy-Pontoise, France) > André Longtin (Univ. Ottawa, Canada) > Jeff Moehlis (Univ. California Santa Barbara, USA) > Hiroya Nakao (Tokyo Instit. of Technology, Japan) > Patricia Reynaud Bouret (Univ Nice, France) > Horacio G. Rotstein (Rutgers Univ. / New Jersey Inst. of Technology, USA) > Alex Roxin (CRM Barcelona, Spain) > Laura Sacerdote (Univ. of Torino, Italia) > Delphine Salort (Univ Pierre et Marie Curie, France) > Shigeru Shinomoto (Kyoto Univ., Japan) > Wilhelm Stannat (TU Berlin, Germany) > Denis Talay (Inria Sophia-Antipolis, France) > Michèle Thieullen (Univ Pierre et Marie Curie, France) > Martin Wechselberger (Univ Sydney, Australia) > Advisory Board > Paul Bressloff (Univ. of Utah, USA) > Evelyn Buckwar (JKU Linz, Austria) > Stephen Coombes (Univ. of Nottingham, UK) > Olivier Faugeras (Inria Sophia Antipolis, France) > Julijana Gjiorgjieva (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Germany) > Zachary Kilpatrick (Univ. of Houston, USA) > Robert Rosenbaum (Univ. of Notre Dame, USA) > Romain Veltz (Inria Sophia Antipolis, France) > > We hope to see you in Juan les Pins this June! > > All the best, > > Susanne Ditlevsen > Bard Ermentrout > Etienne Tanré >

1 0

Register for ENCODS 2018 - European Neuroscience Conference by Doctoral Students - Deadline January 31st
by Organizers ENCODS2018 Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

We are pleased to invite you to: *ENCODS 2018* (European Neuroscience Conference by Doctoral Students) Berlin, Germany, 5-6 July 2018 We are a conference organised for and by doctoral students and a partner of FENS (Federation of European Neuroscience Societies). We aim to increase scientific exchange by bringing together young researchers, established scientists and visionaries. This new edition of ENCODS 2018 in Berlin, Germany, is designed to move beyond the sometimes rigid speaker-audience concept by including a wide range of original activities to create a dynamic environment for blossoming of ideas and networking among scientists. What? ENCODS – the European Neuroscience Conference by Doctoral Students When? 5th-6th July 2018, the days preceding the FENS Forum Where? Berlin, Germany Who? Doctoral students from every discipline within the field of neuroscience How? Register for ENCODS 2018 at http://www.fens.org/Training/ENCODS/ENCODS2018/Registration-Information/ Please note that registration is open until the *31st January 2018*. Registration fee waivers and travel grants are available, pending availability and application approval. Why? * Exciting talks: - Big neuroscience projects: Nancy Ip, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology - Novel methods in neuroscience: Thomas Knöpfel, Imperial College London - Science and industry: Sakyasingha Dasgupta, Ascent Robotics, Inc. Japan - The future of health: Elisabeth Binder, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich * 16 selected student talks * Engaging workshops: - Open science, Bianca Kramer and Jeroen Bosman, Utrecht University Library, Netherlands - The publication process, Paul Bolam, University of Oxford, UK - Experimental design, Chris Hartgerink, Tilburg University, Netherlands - Presentation skills, Anna Elena Pepe, Phoebus coaching, UK * An afternoon of Unconference, a participant-driven space for open discussion * Science & Society session: Methods of an embodied mind (supported by the Schering Stiftung, Berlin) For more information and registration, visit: http://www.fens.org/Training/ENCODS/ENCODS2018/

1 0

Postdoc position in Deep Learning and Animal Behavior modellig
by david robbe Jan. 23, 2018

Jan. 23, 2018

Dear Colleagues, The Turing Centre for Living Systems in Marseille seeks applicants for a postdoc position in computational neuroscience/robotics under the joint supervision of David Robbe and Christophe Eloy. Project abstract – The goal of this project is to understand, at an algorithmic level, how animals learn to develop adaptative behavior by trial-and-error interaction with their environment. We propose an interdisciplinary approach combining behavioral experiments in rats and the development of an «artificial» agent facing challenges similar to those experienced by the rats. The experimental data (already available) show that rats challenged in a time estimation task converged progressively toward a conserved embodied strategy (Rueda-Orozco and Robbe, Nature Neuroscience, 2015). Key determinants of that strategy have been isolated experimentally, by altering task rules and environment and quantifying how these alterations affect animal performance. The core of the artificial agent will be a reinforcement-learning algorithm, which will be trained through virtual experiments simulating the time estimation task. A first objective will be to parametrize algorithms such that they solve this time estimation task and to compare artificial and natural (rat) strategies. The artificial double will eventually be complemented by a robot embodying the learning algorithm. Assessment of algorithmic predictions and possible biological implementation will be tested in new experiments in which the impact of alterations of key task parameters and brain activity on animals performance will be measured. This back and forth interaction between experiments and theory will provide us with new understandings of the mechanisms underlying adaptative motor learning. Expected profile – The main task of the project will be to develop reinforcement learning algorithms and therefore we expect the candidates to have a solid background in machine learning. Since one of the objective is to build simple robots, knowledge in robotics would be an asset. The successful applicant will work in close collaboration with experimentalists and robotic engineers. We are therefore looking for an enthusiastic applicant with excellent communication skills and a track record in interdisciplinary collaborative environments. Supervisors David Robbe - Inmed, UMR 1249 - The neural bases of sensorimotor learning <http://www.inmed.fr/en/en-avenir-dynamiques-neuronales-et-fonctions-des-gan…> Christophe Eloy - IRPHE, UMR 7342 - Biomechanics, aerodynamics, soft matter and biophysics <https://www.irphe.fr/%7Eeloy/> Deadline for application: 28th February Information and submission: http://centuri-livingsystems.org/recruitment-pd2018-10/ -- David Robbe, PhD Neuronal dynamics and functions of the basal ganglia Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED) INSERM-UMR901 163, avenue de Luminy. BP13 13273 Marseille Cedex 9 France http://www.inmed.fr/avenir-dynamiques-neuronales-et-fonctions-des-ganglions… Tel: +33 4 91 82 81 99 Fax: +33 4 91 82 81 05 "It is disturbingly common for studies to include behavior as simply a hasty add-on in papers that are otherwise crammed full of multiple techniques, types of results, and even species. It is as if every paper needs to be a methodological decathlon in order to be considered important." Krakauer et al., Neuron 2017

1 0

PhD Position -- Neural Circuits, Space and Memory
by Andrea Burgalossi Jan. 21, 2018

Jan. 21, 2018

The lab of Andrea Burgalossi at the Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN) in Tübingen is looking for a PhD student in IN-VIVO ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, SPATIAL NAVIGATION AND MEMORY (IN RODENTS) Our research focuses on the cellular basis of spatial coding in the cortico-hippocampal circuit. We employ state-of-the-art electrophysiology techniques for monitoring the activity of identified neurons in freely-behaving rodents (rats and mice). Possible projects involve the use of juxtacellular and/or extracellular recordings -in combination with optogenetics and viral-tracing methods- for recording and manipulating anatomically-defined cell types while mice perform memory tasks in ‘virtual’ or ‘real’ environments. The projects are aimed at dissecting the contribution of distinct cell types to the neural representation of space, to spatial navigation and memory functions. The candidate is required to have a strong quantitative/computational background (e.g. mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, etc…) and excellent programming skills in MATLAB. Previous experience in electrophysiology (especially tetrode recordings) and the analysis of neural data are desirable, but not essential. Applications contaning CV and names of at least two referees should be addressed to Andrea Burgalossi (ANDREA.BURGALOSSI(a)CIN.UNI-TUEBINGEN.DE) Projects are related to these recent publications: Tang, Brecht and Burgalossi, /Nature Protocols/ (2014) 9:2369-81 Diamantaki et al., /Current Biology/ (2016) 26:536-41 Preston-Ferrer et al. /eLife/ (2016) pii: e14592 Diamantaki et al., /eLife/ (2016) pii: e20252 -- 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: www.burgalossilab.com CIN web: www.cin.uni-tuebingen.de

1 0

Postdoctoral Position: Neural Data Analyses
by Fellous, Jean-Marc - (fellous) Jan. 21, 2018

Jan. 21, 2018

The Computational and Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (CENL, University of Arizona, Tucson) is looking for a postdoctoral fellow in Neural Data Analyses. The candidate will have access to a large database of rodent electrophysiological data (LFP, tetrodes) pertaining to 1) sleep and memory consolidation, and 2) spatial navigation in complex environments. The ideal candidate should have a strong quantitative and programming background (Matlab) and be a creative thinker able to produce new and original data visualizations and analyses. The candidate will be able to participate in experiments if desired. The project is multi-disciplinary and involves collaborations with the Univ. of South Florida, the Univ. California San Diego, The Salk Institute and Harvard Univ. Good communication skills are required. Applicant should send a cover letter (email is ok), a CV and the names/contact information of at least 2 references to Dr. Jean-Marc Fellous (fellous at email.arizona.edu) The search is ongoing and is projected to be completed by March 30th, 2018. Applications will be processed in the order they are received. More information about the laboratory can be found at: http://amygdala.psychdept.arizona.edu/lab.html The CENL and the University of Arizona are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.

1 0

Job Posting: Application Scientist at MaxWell Biosystems
by Frey Urs Jan. 21, 2018

Jan. 21, 2018

Dear Colleagues, MaxWell Biosystems is seeking a permanent, full-time e-phys and MEA expert as an Application Scientist. MaxWell Biosystems is a spin-off company of ETH Zurich, Switzerland, commercializing high-resolution microelectrode array technology. Our platform helps customers in pharmaceutical industry, biotech and neuroscience to make their drug discovery and research more efficient. Place of work is Basel, Switzerland. Send your cover letter and CV to hr(a)mxwbio.com<mailto:hr@mxwbio.com> Job description Be it in pharmaceutical industry, contract research organizations or academia, all our existing and prospective customers have a scientific background. To support them and to develop novel assays using microelectrode array (MEA) technology, we are seeking a highly motivated neuroscientist and MEA expert. Your Responsibilities * Support our customers solve their research problems using our high-resolution MEAs * Actively identify, approach and communicate with prospective customers * Conduct demos and installations worldwide * Represent MaxWell Biosystems at scientific conferences, trade shows and collaborative meetings worldwide * Develop novel assays and applications using our high-resolution MEAs * Produce scientific marketing material for our website, blogs, application notes, etc. * Co-write scientific grant applications * Consolidate the market requirements and provide input to product development * Since we are a very young startup, we expect active participation in all sales and support related aspects * Work in a multidisciplinary environment Your Profile * PhD degree in neuroscience, biology, neuroengineering or related fields * Expert in electrophysiology and working experience with MEAs * Good programming skills Matlab and Python * Proven scientific track record in relevant fields * Ability and willingness to travel regularly and worldwide * Experience in spike sorting is a plus * Knowledgeable in induced-pluripotent-stem-cell technology is a plus * Fluent English language skills, other languages are a plus Are you motivated, innovative and committed to delivering first-rate performance? Have you ever wanted to work with cutting-edge technology involving both engineering and biology? Do you enjoy working in an international, multidisciplinary, and interactive team? Then we might have a position for you. Join MaxWell Biosystems in innovating the future of electrophysiology for drug discovery and basic research. We are looking forward to receiving your application documents (cover letter, resume, letter of recommendation and degrees including transcripts) by email at hr(a)mxwbio.com<mailto:hr@mxwbio.com>. -- Dr. Urs Frey | MaxWell Biosystems AG | Mattenstrasse 26 | CH-4058 Basel | Switzerland | www.mxwbio.com<http://www.mxwbio.com>

1 0

Senior Research Associate – University of Bristol, UK
by Jeffrey Bowers Jan. 21, 2018

Jan. 21, 2018

Senior Research Associate – University of Bristol, UK. This five year ERC-funded project entitled “Generalisation in Mind and Machine” explores how well neural networks support human-like generalisation across a range of tasks. Over the course of the grant there will be four post-doctoral fellows involved in modelling, one research assistant involved in empirical work, and two PhD students. This is one of three modelling posts that runs for three years. I am looking to hire someone with a PhD in computer science or cognitive psychology (or related field) who has 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. This research is related to my previous and ongoing research that explores why and when artificial neural networks learn localist "grandmother cell" representations with the goal to better understand why some neurons respond to high-level information in a highly selective manner. You can find more information about my research and download papers at: https://jeffbowers.blogs.ilrt.org/research/ This post is available from 1st May 2018 (but somewhat flexible about start date) and the closing date for applications is Thursday 15th March 2018. For informal enquiries please contact Professor Jeffrey Bowers - J.Bowers at bristol.ac.uk<https://mailman.srv.cs.cmu.edu/mailman/listinfo/connectionists><mailto:J.Bowers at bristol.ac.uk<https://mailman.srv.cs.cmu.edu/mailman/listinfo/connectionists>>. For more information and to apply, please visit: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BHB793/erc-senior-research-associate

1 0

CFP- Special issue on Robots and Smart Environments
by Amir Aly Jan. 20, 2018

Jan. 20, 2018

*Cognitive Systems Research (CSR) Journal* CALL FOR PAPERS **Apologies for cross posting ** We are happy to call for papers for the journal special issue: "*Social Cognitive Systems in Smart Environments: Approaches for Learning, Reasoning, and Adaptation*" *Webpage: **https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/call-for-papers/special-issue-social-cognitive-systems-in-smart-environment <https://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems-research/call-for-paper…> * <http://cognitive-mirroring.org/en/events/hai2017_workshop/> *I. Aim and Scope * A “smart” environment incorporates intelligent systems (e.g., smart home, smart factory, smart city, smart car etc.) employing heterogeneous devices, such as: sensors, actuators, cameras, networks, and screens. Within such a smart environment, autonomous agents can take on an important mediating role between human users and the environment. This is particularly true if high-level cognitive functions and computational intelligence are employed to handle the uncertainty of the complex environment so as to allow agents to act appropriately within different contexts of interaction. Using robotic systems in smart environments opens the door to several socio-cognitive applications, such as: reducing cognitive load for individuals interacting with a smart environment, assisting the elderly and people with cognitive disabilities in mobility and daily tasks (which requires robots to learn the multimodal characteristics of human behavior and to spatially perceive the environment containing other smart objects to decide the best way to employ/manipulate them in order to successfully perform tasks), and developing a cloud-connected robot system to incrementally share knowledge between robots in different smart environments about the behavioral characteristics of human users in order to interact with them adaptively. To meet the requirements of these target applications, robots need to be able to learn how to use the capabilities of their smart environments to better address the needs of the human users. Industrial applications of such technologies include factories of the future and the digital eco-system within an autonomous car. This special issue aims to shed light on cutting edge lines of interdisciplinary research in cognitive science, artificial intelligence, and robotics covering basic research and applications. Recent advances and possible future research avenues on smart robots and environments would be discussed in detail in this journal special issue. *II. Potential Topics* Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to: - Cyber-physical systems in smart environments - 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 - Internet of things - Ambient assisted living - Infotainment in smart vehicles - Natural user interface design - Cloud robotics - Ubiquitous computing *III. Submission* Submissions to the special issue must include original research that has not been published nor submitted to other journals. Authors should prepare their manuscript according to the "Guide for Authors" available at the journal homepage: http://www.journals.elsevier.com/cognitive-systems- research/. Papers should be submitted through the EVISE system: https://www.evise.com/evise/jrnl/cogsys. Authors should select "*VSI:Smart Environments"* as the article type during the submission process. *IV. Timline (Submission portal will be open on March 1, 2018)* - Deadline for paper submission: April 30, 2018 - First notification for authors: July 31, 2018 - Deadline for revised papers submission: September 30, 2018 - Final notification for authors: November 30, 2018 - Deadline for submission of camera-ready manuscripts: January 15, 2019 *V. Guest editors* Dr. Amir Aly, Ritsumeikan University, Japan (amir.aly(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp) Dr. Shashank Pathak,Visteon Corporation, Germany ( shashank.pathak(a)visteon.com) Dr. Sean Andrist, Microsoft Research, USA (sandrist(a)microsoft.com) Prof. Armando Tacchella, University of Genoa, Italy ( armando.tacchella(a)unige.it) -- *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

1 0

Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience - recent articles
by Stephen Coombes Jan. 20, 2018

Jan. 20, 2018

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience publishes research articles on the mathematical modeling and analysis of all areas of neuroscience. The current list of journal articles is available at http://www.mathematical-neuroscience.com/ : Sparse Functional Identification of Complex Cells from Spike Times and the Decoding of Visual Stimuli Aurel A. Lazar, Nikul H. Ukani and Yiyin Zhou https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… Robust Exponential Memory in Hopfield Networks Christopher J. Hillar and Ngoc M. Tran https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… A Rate-Reduced Neuron Model for Complex Spiking Behavior Koen Dijkstra, Yuri A. Kuznetsov, Michel J. A. M. van Putten and Stephan A. van Gils https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… The Dynamics of Neural Fields on Bounded Domains: An Interface Approach for Dirichlet Boundary Conditions Aytül Gökçe, Daniele Avitabile and Stephen Coombes https://mathematical-neuroscience.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13408-… Fundamental Limits of Forced Asynchronous Spiking with Integrate and Fire Dynamics Anirban Nandi, Heinz Schättler, Jason T. Ritt and ShiNung Ching 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.

1 0

University of Sussex PhD programme: 'From Sensation and Perception to Awareness'
by Miguel Maravall Jan. 19, 2018

Jan. 19, 2018

Dear comp-neuro colleagues, We are inviting applications for studentships in an exciting new PhD programme at the University of Sussex, 'From Sensation and Perception to Awareness', for entry in September 2018. Could you please kindly distribute to potentially interested students? Thank you Best wishes Miguel Maravall The University of Sussex has been awarded a Leverhulme Trust grant to create a new Doctoral Scholarship Programme entitled 'From Sensation and Perception to Awareness'. This brings together researchers and doctoral students from across neuroscience, robotics, psychology and the arts. The ultimate aim of this research programme is to advance our understanding of the interactions between sensing, perception, and awareness in humans, animals, and machines. Our doctoral scholars will be immersed in an inter-disciplinary training environment including monthly seminars and an annual student-led conference on a topic related to the theme. A strong emphasis is placed on developing technical skills, and we will provide specialist training in areas such as programming and use of virtual and augmented reality. As part of this programme, Sussex will be providing fully-funded studentships for three cohorts of seven students. The first of these cohorts will start studying at Sussex in September 2018. Individual research projects are listed on the webpage linked below. Each successful applicant will receive a tax free stipend at Research Council rates (currently £14553 per annum), a Home/EU fee waiver and generous research and training costs. On completion of their PhD, our programme alumni will be eligible to apply for one of several 12 month postdoctoral research fellowships at Sussex, available only to completing Leverhulme DSP scholars. Application deadline is March 5th 2018. For further information, a listing of research projects and application instructions, please visit: http://www.sussex.ac.uk/internal/doctoralschool/funding/sussexleverhulme

1 0

PhD Studentship in Computational and Systems Neuroscience
by Christopher Buckley Jan. 19, 2018

Jan. 19, 2018

PhD Studentship: Distributed neural processing of self-generated visual input in a vertebrate brain A PhD studentship in Computational and Systems Neuroscience is available in the groups of Dr Christopher L Buckley (Department of Informatics) and Prof. Leon Lagnado (School of Life Sciences) at the University of Sussex from September 2017. During movement, sensory input and motor output are bound in a closed-loop: motor actions shape sensory input and sensory inputs inform future motor commands. We will characterise the neural circuits involved in the interactions between the sensory and motor systems using light-sheet microscopy to image neural activity across the brain of live zebrafish in a virtual reality environment (Nature. 2013;493: 466–468). The project will involve computational modeling and “big-data” analysis as well as experiments. Appropriate backgrounds therefore include physical and computational science as well as neuroscience. Experience with programming and a quantitative approach are essential. More information about the project is available at https://tinyurl.com/kjtxoq9. Informal enquiries can be made to Chris Buckley<http://www.christopherlbuckley.com/> (c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:c.l.buckley@sussex.ac.uk>) or Leon Lagnado<http://www.sussex.ac.uk/lifesci/lagnadolab/> (l.lagnado(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:l.lagnado@sussex.ac.uk>). Sussex Neuroscience<http://www.sussex.ac.uk/sussexneuroscience> is one of the foremost centers for Neuroscience research in the UK and the University of Sussex has a beautiful campus on the outskirts of the lively South Coast town of Brighton. Application: Please apply through the post-graduate application system of the University of Sussex (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/apply) Please include a brief statement of your scientific interests and skills/experience in the mandatory “research proposal”, including how you would imagine your role in the project (max 2 pages) and include a full CV. Indicate Dr Christopher L Buckley as your preferred advisor and clearly state the title of the studentship. When you apply, please send a copy of your application documents to c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:c.l.buckley@sussex.ac.uk>. Funding Notes The studentship includes a three year stipend at a standard rate (currently £14,296 per annum) and, in addition, fees at the UK/EU rate. Since the studentship only covers fees at the UK/EU rate, overseas applicants are kindly requested to state in their application how they propose to cover the difference between UK/EU and overseas fees. Deadline Applications will be considered on a rolling basis but candidates applying before 15 July can be sure to be considered. Christopher L Buckley Lecturer in Neural Computation University of Sussex Department of Informatics Sussex Neuroscience Falmer Brighton, UK email: c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:c.l.buckley@sussex.ac.uk> twitter: @drclbuckley

1 4

ICNR2018 - FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT & CALL FOR PAPERS, SPECIAL SESSIONS and WORKSHOPS
by Alberto Mazzoni Jan. 18, 2018

Jan. 18, 2018

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We apologize if you receive multiple copies of this announcement --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR2018) Pisa, Italy October 16-20 http://www.icnr2018.org <https://mail.sssup.it/Redirect/D03C6F58/www.icnr2018.org/>info(a)icnr2018.org On behalf of all the organizers, it is our pleasure to invite you to the genuine International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR2018) that will take place in Pisa (Italy) in October 16-20, 2018. Please, visit the website at http://www.icnr2018.org <https://mail.sssup.it/Redirect/D03C6F58/www.icnr2018.org/>. The 2018 International Conference on Neurorehabilitation will bring together researchers and students from the fields of Motor Control, Neurtotechnologies, Clinical Rehabilitation, Applied Neurophysiology, Biomedical Engineering and Neuromechanics to promote, feed and encourage a technology-based therapeutic global shift. On this occasion, ICNR2018 will be held in parallel at the same venue with The International Symposium on Wearable Robotics (WeRob2018). Please, visit the website at http://www.werob2018.org <https://mail.sssup.it/Redirect/D03C6F58/www.werob2018.org/>. We are looking forward to welcoming you in Pisa on October 2018! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *- Call for Special sessions-* ICNR2018 seeks to provide focused discussions on new topics and innovative applications of established approaches during the conference. Therefore, the organization of Special Sessions is encouraged. March 15 is the final deadline for Special Session Proposals submission. *- Call for Workshops-* ICNR2018 seeks to provide an extensive program of workshops to be held prior the conference. Proposals that address topics related to the conference theme are welcome. We invite proposals for half-day or full-day workshops. March 15 is the final deadline for Workshop Proposals submission. *- Submission of contributions-* Extended abstract (2 pages) contributions are welcome. April 15 is the final deadline for extended abstracts. All contributions will be peer reviewed. Accepted contributions will appear in Conference Proceedings. After a selection process, accepted articles will be announced to authors on June 15, 2018. *- Important Deadlines -* Special session proposal submission deadline: March 15, 2018 Workshops proposal submission deadline: March 15, 2018 Contributions submission deadline: April 15, 2018 Notification to authors: June 15, 2018 Authors registration deadline: July 1, 2018 Final version submission: July 15, 2018 Early registration: July 1, 2018 *- Registration Fees -* Early student (until July 1): 300€ Early regular (until July 1): 550€ Early Single day student (until July 1, 2018): 200€ Early Single day regular (until July 1, 2018): 300€ Student: 450€ Regular: 750€ Single day student: 300€ Single day regular: 450€ *- Confirmed Plenary speakers -* Michael Goldfard (Vanderbilt University) Maria Chiara Carrozza (SSSA) Katja Mombaur (Heidelberg University) Herman van der Kooij (University of Twente) (tentative) Oskar Aszmann (Medical University of Vienna) (tentative) Hugh Herr (MIT) (tentative) Mitsuo KAWATO (ATR) *- Logistics -* ICNR obtained special rates for accommodation with hotels nearby the conference venue. During the conference, transportation services will be facilitated between these hotels and the venue. For updated information on accommodation, trasportation and conference venue please visit our website frequently. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For further and up-to-date information, please visit the conference website: http://www.icnr2018.org <https://mail.sssup.it/Redirect/D03C6F58/www.icnr2018.org/> Prof. José L. Pons & Prof. Silvestro Micera Co-Chairs ICNR2018 http://www.ICNR2018.org <https://mail.sssup.it/Redirect/D03C6F58/www.icnr2018.org/>

1 0

Cortical Codes at the EITN Paris on February 5 & 6 - registration opened
by EITN Jan. 18, 2018

Jan. 18, 2018

Announcement : Workshop Cortical codes Organized by Sacha van Albada and the EITN on February 5th and 6th, at the EITN Paris. Programme and registration: https://eitnconf-050218.sciencesconf.org/ The cerebral cortex plays a key role in high-level brain functions including sensory processing, memory, attention, planning, and the internal modeling of the external world. To make sense of the wealth of experimental data available on cortical anatomy and physiology, and the relation of its activity to behavior, theoretical approaches are essential. A variety of tools are used for this purpose: bottom-up modeling starting from biological knowledge, top-down including normative approaches, investigations of the coding properties at the single-neuron and neuronal population levels, analytical work and simulations, and comparisons between healthy and disease conditions. This workshop brings together a cross-section of these theoretical approaches toward unraveling the mechanisms used by the cerebral cortex for achieving its functionality, with the goal of facilitating mutual fertilization between the various approaches. **/The registration is free however mandatory due to a limited number of seats./** Speakers:**/ /** Claudia Clopath, Cold Spring Harbor, USA Sophie Denève, ENS Paris, France Maria Sanchez-Vives, IDIBAPS Barcelona, Spain Yulia Sandamirskaya, University and ETH, Zurich, Switzerland Tatyana Sharpee, Salk Institute, La Jolla, USA (via video conference) Hamutal Slovin, Bar Ilan University, Tel Aviv, Israel Alexa Riehle, AMU, France Angela Yu, University of California San Diego, USA (via video conference) Fleur Zeldenrust, Radboud University, The Netherlands Looking forward to seeing you there ! -- The EITN Team Phone : +33 (0)1 69 82 34 39 http://www.eitn.org follow us on Twitter: @EITN_Paris

1 0

2018 ACT-R Summer School and Master Class
by db30＠andrew.cmu.edu Jan. 17, 2018

Jan. 17, 2018

2018 ACT-R Summer School and Master Class Carnegie Mellon University July 9-13, 2018 ACT-R is a unified theory of cognition that has been implemented in a software system called a cognitive architecture that can be used to develop computational cognitive models. It has been applied to modeling tasks that range from experimental tasks like simple reaction time and list learning, to real world tasks like driving a car and air traffic control. The 2018 ACT-R Summer School will take place at CMU in Pittsburgh from July 9-13. It consists of both a Summer School for beginning users and a Master Class for more experienced users. The Summer School will train researchers in the use of ACT-R for cognitive modeling using the ACT-R tutorial. Each day will consist of a morning theory lecture covering one or two tutorial units, an afternoon discussion session on the topics of the day, and modeling assignments which participants are expected to complete during the day and evening. The Master Class is organized in parallel with the Summer School. The Master Class offers the opportunity for ACT-R modelers to work on their own projects with guidance from experienced ACT-R researchers. There is no curriculum for the Master Class, but Master Class students are welcome to attend the Summer School lectures and discussion sessions. To provide an optimal learning environment, admission to the Summer School and Master Class will be limited. To apply for the Summer School, please email a curriculum vitae and a statement of purpose to db30(a)andrew.cmu.edu. Demonstrated experience with a modeling formalism similar to ACT-R will strengthen a Summer School application. To apply for the Master Class please email a curriculum vitae along with some information about your level of experience with ACT-R and some details on the project you expect to work on during the Master Class. Applications are due by April 15th and applicants will be notified of admission by April 30th. Admission to the Summer School and Master Class is free. Housing will be available in the CMU dormitories for approximately $60/day (single) or $40/day (shared). More information about ACT-R, including papers published by the ACT-R community, can be found on the ACT-R web site: <http://act-r.psy.cmu.edu/>. For more information on the Summer School and Master Class you can email Dan Bothell at db30(a)andrew.cmu.edu.

1 0

AREADNE 2018 Call for Abstracts
by John Pezaris Jan. 16, 2018

Jan. 16, 2018

AREADNE 2018 Research in Encoding and Decoding of Neural Ensembles Nomikos Conference Centre, Santorini, Greece 20-24 June 2018 http://areadne.org info(a)areadne.org Dear Colleague, We are pleased to announce solicitation of abstracts for poster presentation at AREADNE 2018, 20-24 June 2018, our seventh meeting to be held at the Nomikos Conference Centre in Santorini, Greece. Continuing with the same highly successful format, AREADNE 2018 will bring scientific leaders from around the world to present their theoretical and experimental work on the functioning of neuronal ensembles. The meeting will provide an informal yet spectacular setting in which attendees can discuss their recent ideas and discoveries, with a relaxed pace that emphasizes interaction. Please see the Call for Abstracts for additional details, including links for templates, at http://areadne.org/call-for-abstracts Submissions of abstracts for poster presentations are due by 9 Feb 2018; notifications will be provided by 13 March 2018. We strongly encourage potential attendees to submit an abstract as presenters have registration priority. For information about the conference, please refer to the main web page http://areadne.org or send email to us at info(a)areadne.org. We hope to see you at AREADNE 2018! Best, - J. --- John S. Pezaris, Ph.D. AREADNE 2018 Co-Chair Harvard Medical School Massachusetts General Hospital 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114, USA john(a)areadne.org jpezaris(a)gmail.com

1 0

Call for Papers: Special Track on "Brain-Inspired Circuits & Architectures" @ IEEE NANO 2018 - Cork, Ireland
by Harkin, Jim Jan. 15, 2018

Jan. 15, 2018

CFP: IEEE NANO 2018 Special Track on "Brain-Inspired Circuits & Architectures". http://ieeenano18.org/brain-inspired-circuits-architectures/ The call for papers is now open to the Special Track on "Brain-Inspired Circuits & Architectures". This track is intended to disseminate the research on Brain-inspired Circuits and Architectures to the Nano community and therefore is broad and includes applications. Topics of Interest include, but are not restricted to: * Neuromorphic hardware * Embedded neural systems (including FPGAs) * Brain-inspired cognitive architectures, evolutionary robotics * Self-configuring , Self-healing or Self-aware systems * Memristor based computation and learning * Novel neural hardware applications * Deep Learning Hardware * Other topics in Brain-Inspired Circuits & Architectures Submission of Abstract deadline: 28th February 2018 (Extended deadline) Notification of Acceptance : 29th March 2018 Deadline for final papers: 31st May 2018 Guidelines: http://ieeenano18.org/abstract-submission-guidelines/ Track Chair: Dr. Jim Harkin, Ulster University Track Co-Chair: Prof. Liam McDaid, Ulster University Track TPC Members Prof. Alejandro Linares-Barranco, University of Seville. Spain Prof Alice Parker, University of Southern California, USA Dr. Martin Trefzer, University of York, UK Dr. Junxiu Liu, Ulster University, UK [cid:image003.jpg@01D36D24.502F1730] Abstract Submission is now open for IEEE NANO 2018! The 18th IEEE International Conference on Nanotechnology | Cork, Ireland | 23-26 July 2018 | www.ieeenano18.org IEEE-NANO is the flagship IEEE Nanotechnology conference. The conference scope spans nanoscience and nanotechnology, from nanomaterials and nanofabrication to nanosensors, nanoactuators and nanoelectronic/nanophotonic devices. The thematic focus for this year's event is Nano-Enabled Smart Things: new materials, devices and systems that can benefit humanity through applications in communications, energy, healthcare, food and environment. The conference themes will encompass experimental contributions (e.g., materials development and integration, device fabrication, characterisation and metrology) as well as modelling and simulation. We welcome contributions from both academic and industry-based researchers. Confirmed plenary speakers for IEEE NANO 2018 already include: Prof. John A. Rogers, Northwestern University Prof. Malini Olivo, A*STAR<https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=view_org&hl=en&org=15632547241…> Singapore Prof. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

1 0

Call for Applications: Spring Course in Computational Neuroscience Paris March 19-23, 2018
by Alain Destexhe Jan. 14, 2018

Jan. 14, 2018

Hi All, I am forwarding this announcement as the deadline is in a month. Sorry for those who already received it. All the best, Alain ------------ Call for Applications: Spring Course in Computational Neuroscience, Paris, March 19-23, 2018 We hereby announce the EITN Spring Course in Computational Neuroscience of March 19-23, 2018. It will be held at the European Institute of Theoretical Neuroscience (EITN) in Paris, and is organized by the Theoretical Neuroscience Group of the Human Brain Project. The main focus of the course will be to understand and design neural models at multiple scales, ranging from cellular and circuit models to large-scale brain networks. Organizers: Idan Segev (Hebrew University), Markus Diesmann (Research Center Julich), Viktor Jirsa (CNRS, Marseille), Sonja Gruen (Research Center Julich), Gaute Einevoll (NMBU), Alain Destexhe (CNRS and EITN) and Gustavo Deco (University Pompeu Fabra). The goal of the course is to teach different techniques of computational neuroscience spanning different scales: Day 1: single-neuron models (Segev) Day 2: mean-field models (Destexhe) Day 3: model comparison and validation (Gruen, Einevoll) Day 4: from local circuits to whole-brain models (Diesmann, Jirsa) Day 5: resting state and sensory processing (Deco) The students will be asked to form 5 interdisciplinary working groups on each one of these themes, and will do a short modeling project using one of the simulation packages presented at the course (Python, NEST, Brian, The Virtual Brain...) Tutorials and use cases will be provided to teach students how to use these packages. The student selection will be based on their excellence, and also based on their need to follow such a course. Experimentalists and theoreticians are welcome, a prior background in basic neuroscience is required. We request that the students come to the course with their laptop computer and have software installed, which we will identify prior to the course, to allow working on the projects and tutorials. The deadline for applications is February 15th, 2018. Applications consist of a one-page CV and a motivation letter to explain why you would like to attend this course. Applications should be sent to the EITN, at eitn(a)unic.cnrs-gif.fr

1 0

[jobs] Postdoc/Senior Postdoc in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience – A biomimetic forebrain for active touch (University of Bristol)
by Nathan Lepora Jan. 14, 2018

Jan. 14, 2018

Postdoc/Senior Postdoc in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience – A biomimetic forebrain for active touch (University of Bristol) *** closing date for applications: 1 February 2018 *** The University of Bristol invites applications for an immediate position in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience. The successful candidate will be part of a multi-disciplinary team on the new Leverhulme-funded Leadership Award ‘A biomimetic forebrain for robot touch’, focusing on active touch. We have been awarded funds for four postdocs and a technician on a 5-year project that will apply leading robotics, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, psychology and philosophy of the brain to develop a biomimetic forebrain embodied on a 3D-printed tactile robot hand to enable human-like manipulation This application is for a Postdoctoral/Senior Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience who will model the mammalian forebrain system for embodiment in the robots. This research position will focus on systems-level biological modelling of forebrain systems, and will complement three other postdoctoral researchers and a technician on the AI of robot touch and 3D-printed tactile robots, who together will embody the model on the robots. Our lab uses statistical/Bayesian approaches to model perception and action selection, and is interested in taking these approaches in the direction of goal-directed learning and task performance in complex environments. Although a relatively new group, we have a strong track record in publishing in both the leading Computational Neuroscience and Robotics/AI journals and conferences, including PLOS Computational Biology, Frontiers in Comp Neuro, NIPS, RSS, IEEE Trans Robotics, Soft Robotics and regularly in ICRA/IROS. Our lab has recently won the international Soft Robotics Challenge and we have a 3D-printed tactile robot hand on display in the Science Museum, London. Our group currently numbers 8 full-time members, and we will be hiring three postdocs and a technician over the next year. The project has funding until April 2022, making this an ideal position to develop a strong base for an academic career in this important research area. Applicant qualities: This application is for a postdoctoral position (Research Associate/Senior Research Associate) in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience. We are looking for a candidate experienced in some of the following research areas, and an interest in pursuing the others: - Computation/mathematics of optimal decision making (e.g. statistical/Bayesian methods) - Models of reinforcement/goal-directed learning - Systems-level modelling of the basal ganglia and other forebrain structures - Interest in embodied computational neuroscience and embodied cognition/active perception. You will hold (or will be expected to obtain soon) a strong PhD in a discipline relevant to the project. In addition to a strong research track record you will also have a proven capability to write first author publications accepted in the leading journals of the research field. Institution The project will be based at both the Computational Neuroscience Unit (www.bristol.ac.uk/engineering/research/computational-neuroscience) at the University of Bristol and Bristol Robotics Laboratory (www.brl.ac.uk) the largest centre for multi-disciplinary robotics research in the UK. Our group also collaborates with other labs in this research area, principally at the University of Sheffield (Tony Prescott) and ISTC-CNR in Rome (Giovanni Pezzulo). The post holder will be employed by the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Bristol, ranked 3rd for general Engineering in the UK (just after Oxford and Cambridge). The city of Bristol is consistently ranked as the 'best place to live' in the UK, e.g. as reported by the BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-39320118) Further details: It is anticipated that interviews will take place in February 2018, and the anticipated start as soon as possible thereafter. This post is full time for 2 years initially, with funds in place to extend the position until April 2022. Further information about the Leverhulme Award (http://www.lepora.com/leverhulme.htm) and the activities of the research group (www.lepora.com<http://www.lepora.com>) can be found via these links. Details and procedure to apply can be made through this link http://www.bristol.ac.uk/jobs/find/ with reference number ACAD103059. Informal enquiries can be made to: Dr. Nathan Lepora (N.Lepora(a)bristol.ac.uk) Closing date for applications: 1 February 2018 -- Dr Nathan Lepora, Reader in Robotics & BRL lead in Tactile Robotics Dept of Engineering Maths, Merchant Venturers Building, University of Bristol Office (MVB2.50): 0117 3315169 Lab (BRL bays 2 & 3): 0117 3286171 www.lepora.com @nathanlepora @tactilerobot

1 0

Summer School of the Centre for Neural Dynamics
by Richard Naud Jan. 13, 2018

Jan. 13, 2018

Call for applicants of the Summer School of the Centre for Neural Dynamics The summer school is intended for graduate students and undergraduate students in their third and fourth year of study in the physical sciences (e.g. physics, applied mathematics, engineering, computer science) and the life sciences (e.g. neuroscience, biology, physiology, human kinetics) who wish to develop their skills in neural data analysis and in mathematical modeling of neural activity. The topics will range from cellular to systems neuroscience, with applications in medicine. Individuals outside of academia may also participate. Dates: May 20 - June 2, 2018. Location: Ottawa, Canada. Application Deadline: February 15, 2018. Faculty André Longtin (uOttawa) Richard Naud (uOttawa) Steve Prescott (Sick Kids) Jonathan Rubin (UPitt) Jean-Philippe Thivierge (uOttawa) Majid Mohajerani (ULethbridge) Greg Silasi (uOttawa) Adam Sachs (uOttawa) Jean-Claude Béïque (uOttawa) Maurice Chacron (McGill) Georg Northoff (uOttawa) Detailed information can be found on the website of the Centre of Neural Dynamics<http://www.neurodynamic.uottawa.ca/summer.html>. Kind Regards, André Longtin and Richard Naud

1 0

Job opening for Neural Engineer - Multiple Levels
by Zanos, Theodoros Jan. 12, 2018

Jan. 12, 2018

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 (multiple levels). The lab focuses on the development of 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 and may take part in neurophysiology experiments, 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. 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 To apply, please send a cover letter describing your qualifications and an academic CV to tzanos at northwell.edu and include Neural Engineer in the subject heading. Thank you, 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 Northwell Health Visit us at Northwell.edu 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/> [cid:image001.png@01D38B92.21B19A90] 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.

1 0

Job position in Computational Neuroscience at the Institute of Biophysics (National Research Council - Italy)
by Luca Leonardo Bologna Jan. 11, 2018

Jan. 11, 2018

*The Institute of Biophysics of the Italian National Research Council seeks applicants for a position in Computational Neuroscience in the laboratory of Michele Migliore (Palermo, Italy). We are seeking extremely motivated individuals to work in a highly collaborative project.* The project involves the implementation of tools/applications to operate, improve, and maintain a user-oriented simulation platform. A Master or PhD in Physics, Informatics, Computational Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field is required. The position is funded by the EU Human Brain Project. Salary follows the National Research Council scale for pre or post-doctoral status. The ideal candidate will have a consolidated experience in Pyhton, C, Object Oriented programming, development of web-application, and both front- and back-end web technologies (e.g. html, javascript, css, django, flask,…). A basic knowledge of the Italian language is required for foreign candidates. Applicants should email “michele dot migliore at cnr dot it” a PDF file containing: 1) a CV, highlighting evidence of required skills. 2) a max one-page statement of prior research experience and motivation to be considered for this position. The appointment will be for one year, and it could be extended. Best regards.

1 0

MEG post-doc positions in Moscow, Higher School of Economics
by Alex Ossadtchi Jan. 11, 2018

Jan. 11, 2018

Postdoctoral Position in Cognitive Neuroscience: MEG lab. The international Centre for Cognition & Decision Making <https://social.hse.ru/en/psy/> (CCDM, Moscow) invites applications for postdoctoral research positions in cognitive neuroscience. The newly established Magnetoencephalographiy (MEG) group provides an access to an Elekta Neuromag Vectorview 306-channel MEG system and associated equipment. The CCDM focuses on E/MEG studies in a range of research strands including normal and pathological neurodynamics, decision making and neuroeconomics, memory, motor control, language and speech, theoretical neuroscience, BCI and other neurotechnologies, neuroimaging methods (including source modeling techniques). The postholder will have an opportunity to influence the research agenda, which will be formed in collaboration with the new head of the MEG group and other PIs at the CCDM. CCDM <https://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre> is a young international English-speaking research center recently established at the Higher School of Economics, a dynamic, ambitious and rapidly growing university. CCDM is located in the historical city center of Moscow and provides access to all major neuroimaging techniques: fMRI, navigated TMS, EEG, MEG, tDCS/tACS, eye-tracking, behavioural measurements etc. CCDM actively cooperates with national and international collaborators such as Ecole Normale Superieure (Paris), MPI for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (Leipzig), Aalto University (Finland), Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience (Aarhus University), Duke University School of Medicine, etc. Requirements: · The position requires a PhD degree in psychology, neuroscience, physics, applied mathematics, computer science or engineering, with experience of publishing international peer-review paper in cognitive neuroscience. · Experience in MEG/EEG, including designing and running experiments, MEG/EEG data analysis, programming in Matlab, Python and R is an advantage. · Ability to work in international teams · Knowledge of Russian is not required as teaching and research are both conducted in English. General conditions for Post-Doctoral Research positions can be found here <https://iri.hse.ru/faq_pd>. Application A CV, research statement and two letters of recommendation should be submitted online application for <https://www.hse.ru/expresspolls/poll/211481597.html>m by February 15, 2017. Note that direct email applications to the CCDM may not be reviewed – please use online application for <https://www.hse.ru/expresspolls/poll/211481597.html>m. About the Higher School of Economics (HSE) The HSE is a young, dynamic, fast-growing Russian research university. Over the past twenty years, the HSE has become one of Russia's largest universities in the fields of economics, social sciences and humanities, and has earned the reputation of a national leader in higher education. Committed to high-quality research, HSE now has a considerable number of international research laboratories, led by eminent professors from all over the world; more such laboratories were opened in 2018-2019. HSE provides excellent opportunities to teach in English at BA and MS levels. Apply now <https://www.hse.ru/expresspolls/poll/211481597.html>

1 0

postdoc: mathematical modelling of neuronal networks
by Laing, Carlo Jan. 10, 2018

Jan. 10, 2018

The Institute of Natural & Mathematical Sciences at Massey University (Auckland) seek to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Fellow for the research group of Professor Carlo Laing. In this appointment you will be expected to contribute to the group's research activities in the modelling of networks of neurons. You will have a strong background in applied mathematics, specifically nonlinear dynamical systems, and experience in numerical computation. Some knowledge of neuroscience, or a willingness to learn, is advantageous. This position is for 3 years, requires a PhD qualification, and is based at the Auckland campus. For full details, see http://massey-careers.massey.ac.nz/10078/postdoctoral-research-fellow -- Professor Carlo Laing. INMS, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, NSMC, Auckland, New Zealand. ph: +64-9-414-0800 x 43512. fax: +64-9-443 9790 http://www.massey.ac.nz/~crlaing/

1 0

Job Posting: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Baseball, Biomedical Signal Processing and Machine Learning
by Jason Sherwin Jan. 9, 2018

Jan. 9, 2018

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Baseball, Biomedical Signal Processing and Machine Learning Thor Industries, Inc. and US Army Research Laboratory Thor Industries is pleased to announce this postdoctoral position in its Cooperative Agreement with the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL). The project started approximately 4 months ago and will run approximately for another 8 months or longer (pending extension). Thor Industries is led by its Principal, Dr. Jason Sherwin. Thor Industries is partnered with the University of Tennessee Math Department on this Cooperative Agreement with the ARL. Thor Industries is tasked with examining neural and behavioral data collected from real-world baseball hitting experts and analyzing these data for relationships to real-world data (i.e., on-field statistics collected in-game). A familiarity with rapid decision-making, go/no-go paradigms and baseball metrics is a requirement. The successful applicant is expected to relocate to Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, USA, or nearby to work at the Aberdeen Proving Ground with ARL personnel. A housing allowance will be given in addition to stated salary. A travel budget is also available to the successful applicant. Only U.S. Citizens will be considered due to security restrictions at the worksite. The successful applicant will investigate and develop advanced signal processing and machine learning algorithms for prediction purposes. The ideal candidate will have received a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science or a closely related discipline, and is expected to have significant experience of biomedical signal processing and machine learning techniques. Applicants are also encouraged to have a strong publication record as first author, ideally including publications in 1st quartile journals in relevant areas. Appointment will be made as Senior Research Scientist in Thor Industries. Salary: Approximately $35,000 per annum Duration: Fixed-Term until August 2019 For further information and inquiries, please contact Dr. Jason Sherwin niceboston(a)gmail.com<mailto:lciti@essex.ac.uk> ------------------------------------------------------------------ sponsored link: yahoo recommended - http://msn.medsplacerx.com ------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Support for Two PhD Fellows in Bilbao, Caixa Fellowship, deadline 1st February
by Paolo Bonifazi Jan. 9, 2018

Jan. 9, 2018

Dear colleagues La Caixa Foundation has published the call for International PhD fellowships within the program "INPhINIT". This call is providing excellent working conditions for excellent international students. More information at https://obrasociallacaixa.org/el/investigacion-y-becas/progr ama-de-becas-de-posgrado/inphinit/programme-description We will be supporting 2 applicants, one associated to the project “Machine Learning, Neurological Disorders and Brain Networks” supervised by Jesus M Cortes and the other associated to the project "Multi-scale epileptic networks: a longitudinal structural-functional study of human epileptic networks combining deep electrode recordings and MRI" supervised by Paolo Bonifazi. Applicants must have a background in Mathematics, Physics or Engineering. The student will work in the Computational Neuroimaging Lab in Biocruces (Bibao) focused on developing and applying brain connectivity methods in combination with machine learning (such as supervised and unsupervised classification), modeling (neuron or circuit levels) and imaging processing of different imaging modalities (such as magnetic resonance imaging or electroencepaholography). The student will interact with Engineers, Physicists and Clinical Researchers. Further details and readings: To study brain functioning and disfunctioning, the Computational Neuroimaging Laboratory in Biocruces (Bilbao) is focused on brain networks at the macroscale, thus affecting to the large-scale brain organization. While diffusion images provide information about structural connectivity, functional magnetic resonance imaging shed light on resting state functional connectivity. In this project, the student will work with different datasets, some of them publicly available, others acquired in our laboratory, covering different pathologies such as autism, patients in coma, epilepsy, patients with multiorganic failure, neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson and psychiatric disorders. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2017.00215/full http://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1162/NETN_a_00007 https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01024/full https://www.nature.com/articles/srep10532 Working conditions: 3-years contract, gross salary of about 26.000 euro - 28.000 euro per year, and an extra travelling and conference budget of about 3.500 euro per year. Applicant requirements: At recruitment date, candidates must have MSc degree and an English certification of minimum B2. In addition, candidates must not have residence in Spain longer than 12 months in the 3 years prior to recruitment date. Prof. Jesus M Cortes Ikerbasque Research Professor Head of the Laboratory of Computational Neuroimaging, Biocruces, Bilbao (Spain) Coordinator of the Quantitative Biomedicine Unit, Biocruces, Bilbao (Spain) Research Professor at the University of the Basque Country (Spain) http://www.jesuscortes.info Dr. Paolo Bonifazi Ikerbasque Tenure Track Professor Computational Neuroimaging Laboratory http://www.ikerbasque.net/es/paolo-bonifazi

1 0

Postdoctoral position (Bayesian Computation) at QIMRB, Brisbane Australia
by Matthew Aburn Jan. 9, 2018

Jan. 9, 2018

Bayesian Computation Research Fellow (full time 3 year appointment) - Cutting edge data science in the group of Prof Michael Breakspear - Attractive salary packaging & superannuation options This research fellow will develop new systems for model selection and model-based prediction, combining large data sets from patient neuroimaging and intracranial recordings with models of brain dynamics. *Responsibilities* - You will contribute to the design of methods for Bayesian inference on large data sets, to perform model selection, parameter estimation, data assimilation and prediction using forward models of brain dynamics. - Implement these methods on GPUs or high performance computing clusters, and collaborate in applying these to clinical and neuroscience research, including an application to diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. - Perform innovative analyses of high-dimensional neurophysiological and neuroimaging data. - Contribute to experimental design and prepare manuscripts for related studies. - Participate in intra-mural group activities, including presentation at lab meetings and collaboration with other lab members and clinicians. *About you* Essential: The successful applicant will possess the following: PhD in mathematics, physics, statistics, bioengineering, computer sciences or related field; demonstrated ability to implement mathematical methods in code; and evidence of strong oral and written communication skills. Desirable: Ideally candidates may also have a published track record in applying computational inference methods for example Sequential Monte Carlo, particle filters, MCMC, ensemble Kalman filters or variational Bayes; previous experience with GPU programming or high performance computing clusters; or expertise in time series analysis or signal processing. *About the lab* Led by Prof Michael Breakspear, the Systems Neuroscience Group (SNG) is an independent research team within QIMR Berghofer. The SNG is a multidisciplinary group who undertake innovative computational modelling and analysis of brain activity in health and disease. QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute. Based in Brisbane, Australia and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and support staff. *Salary* Salary range is AUD $81,395-$84,257 per annum, plus up to 15.75% superannuation, and attractive salary packaging. This is a full time three year appointment. Closing date is 4 February 2018 Apply here: http://www.qimrberghofer.edu.au/careers/positions-vacant

1 0

Postdoctoral position (Mathematical Neuroscience) at QIMRB, Brisbane Australia
by Matthew Aburn Jan. 9, 2018

Jan. 9, 2018

Mathematical Neuroscience Research Fellow (full time 3 year appointment) - Innovative biomedical modelling in the group of Prof Michael Breakspear - Attractive salary packaging & superannuation options This research fellow will pursue large-scale computational modelling and simulation of brain activity, and innovative analyses of time series and neuroimaging data, with particular focus on epilepsy. *Responsibilities* - You will contribute to developing and analysing new mathematical models of large-scale brain activity, including biophysical models and networks of non-linear oscillators. - Simulate computational models on GPUs or high performance computing clusters, and collaborate in applying these to clinical and neuroscience research. - Perform innovative analyses of high-dimensional neurophysiological and neuroimaging data. - Contribute to experimental design and prepare manuscripts for related studies. - Participate in intra-mural group activities, including presentation at lab meetings and collaboration with other lab members and clinicians. *About you* Essential: The successful applicant will possess the following: PhD in mathematics, physics, bioengineering, computer sciences or related field; demonstrated ability to implement mathematical methods in code; evidence of strong oral and written communication skills. Desirable: Ideally candidates may also have a published track record in analysis of non-linear dynamical systems, particularly neural mass or neural field models or coupled non-linear oscillators; previous experience with GPU programming or high performance computing clusters; previous experience in neuroscience research; or expertise in time series analysis or signal processing. *About the lab* Led by Prof Michael Breakspear, the Systems Neuroscience Group (SNG) is an independent research team within QIMR Berghofer. The SNG is a multidisciplinary group who undertake innovative computational modelling and analysis of brain activity in health and disease. QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading translational medical research institute. Based in Brisbane, Australia and working in close collaboration with clinicians and other research institutes, QIMR Berghofer is home to more than 600 scientists, students and support staff. *Salary* Salary range is AUD $81,395-$84,257 per annum, plus up to 15.75% superannuation, and attractive salary packaging. This is a full time three year appointment. Closing date is 4 February 2018 Apply here: http://www.qimrberghofer.edu.au/careers/positions-vacant

1 0

CNS*2018: Registration and Abstract Submission Open
by Sharon Crook Jan. 8, 2018

Jan. 8, 2018

CNS*2018 Call for Abstracts Organization for Computational Neurosciences (OCNS) 27th Annual Meeting Seattle, USA, July 13-18 Local Organizers: Christof Koch, Adrienne Fairhall, Eric Shea-Brown The main meeting begins the evening of Friday July 13 and runs through Monday July 16. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Friday July 13) and followed by two days of workshops (Tuesday July 17 and Wednesday July 18). Invited Keynote Speakers: Eve Marder, Brandeis University Nancy Kopell, Boston University Daniel Wolpert, University of Cambridge Rajesh Rao, University of Washington Registration and abstract submission are open. Abstract submission deadline: March 5, 2018. Note that one of the authors must register as sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission is possible. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Abstract Submission: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-abstract-submission Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mcid=form_243… Workshop proposals also are being accepted at: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-call-for-workshops For up-to-date conference information, please visit: http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018 ---------------------------------------- OCNS is the international member-based society for computational neuroscientists. Become a member to be eligible for travel awards and more. Visit our website for more information: http://www.cnsorg.org.

1 0

Huawei AI Theory Lab Job Advert
by Biswa Sengupta Jan. 8, 2018

Jan. 8, 2018

Huawei AI Theory Lab Job Advert Applications are invited for research internships as well as for research scientist positions to join Huawei Research and Development’s research arm (Noah’s Ark lab) in London (UK), Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Beijing. We are looking for candidates who have the skills and research experience to join a new research team to push the boundaries of pure mathematics, theoretical statistics (incl. parametric and non-parametric Bayesian statistics) and machine learning (incl. deep learning and reinforcement learning). A proven record of publications (in reputed conferences such as NIPS, COLT, UAI, ICML, AISTATS, JMLR, PAMI, and others) and prototyping skills in terms of developing algorithms, in any language, is essential. As an industry research laboratory, we pursue both theoretical and applied research, where one feeds into the other. Like academia, knowledge dissemination is through the publication of papers in reputed journals, conferences and workshops, as well as patents. We have current collaborations with world-renowned academic institutions; fostering such industry-academia partnerships is deemed an essential quality for research interns/scientists. The successful applicant will be based at our offices in London (UK), Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Beijing, and will be part of a successful R&D team comprising research scientists, research engineers and software developers. Qualifications, skills and other information: 0 Applicants for research scientists generally have a PhD degree and/or postdoctoral experience in computer science, engineering, statistics, mathematics, and allied disciplines. Research interns are PhD students1 Knowledge of Bayesian statistics2 Knowledge of reinforcement learning3 Knowledge of deep learning methodologies, such as convolutional and recurrent networks4 Technical familiarity with at least one of the following: Python, C/C++, Java, Scala, etc. Salary is commensurate to experience/skill-set. Email to send across CVs: noahlab(a)huawei.com, mentioning a preference for location (London (UK), Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Beijing). Please mention AI Theory Lab on your covering letter so that it is directed to the specific group. Research Internships: Please format subject line of the email as: AITheory_Name_RI_CurrentDegreeUniversity_currentlocationResearch scientists: Please format subject line of the email as: AITheory_Name_RS_CurrentPlaceofWork_currentlocation

1 0

2 PostDoc positions in Computational Neuroscience at TU Berlin
by Sprekeler, Henning Jan. 8, 2018

Jan. 8, 2018

Dear all, Applications are invited for two postdoc positions in computational neuroscience, in the lab of Henning Sprekeler at TU Berlin and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience. The research focus of the lab lies on synaptic plasticity, dynamics of neural systems, and functional consequences of inhibition. Your profile: - Strong interest in computational neuroscience - Excellent mathematical background and very good programming skills - Excellent command of English and good team spirit. Both positions are available immediately. The salary is commensurate with experience, but competitive enough for a decent life in Berlin. To apply, pease send a 1-page research statement, CV with publication list, and contact details for two references to cognition(a)tu-berlin.de<mailto:cognition@tu-berlin.de> (pdf only). Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. For updates please check the lab website (http://www.cognition.tu-berlin.de/menue/jobs/) Best wishes, Henning Sprekeler --- Prof. Dr. Henning Sprekeler Modelling of cognitive processes Technische Universität Berlin & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin Email: h.sprekeler(a)tu-berlin.de<mailto:h.sprekeler@tu-berlin.de> Phone: +49 (0)30 314 73557 Web: http://www.cognition.tu-berlin.de Address: Sekr. MAR 5-3 Marchstr. 23 10587 Berlin Germany

1 0

Analysis of human intracranial recordings using integrated information: (up to) 3 year postdoc in Melbourne, Australia
by Naotsugu Tsuchiya Jan. 6, 2018

Jan. 6, 2018

Postdoc position available (up to 3 years) at Monash Neuroscience of Consciousness (MoNoC), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. We are seeking outstanding postdoctoral research fellows with strong skills in computational or mathematical neuroscience, whose research ambition is to identify the physical substrate of conscious experience. If you are successful, you will work in Tsuchiya's lab at Monash, on our two Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Project grants (2018-2020). Both projects will involve the analysis of intracranial neural recordings from multiple brain areas, which are simultaneously recorded, and conscious experience is also characterised. In one of the projects, you will develop mathematical tools and apply the tools to empirically test predictions from "integrated information theory of consciousness" (Tononi 2004 BMC, 2016 NRN). For the overall idea of the project, please see Haun et al 2017 eNeuro, Oizumi et al 2016 PLoS Comp & PNAS). You will work both independently and collaboratively with multiple PIs. Starting date is relatively flexible. Late-stage PhD students will be considered (only those with substantial publication records). If you are interested, please send your CV to Nao Tsuchiya <naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu>. Strong candidates will be contacted through emails and interviews. Applications will be open until the ideal candidate is identified. Thank you Nao -- -- *Nao (Naotsugu) Tsuchiya* Associate Professor *Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences* Attention and Memory Program School of Psychological Sciences Monash University 770 Blackburn Monash Brain Imaging facility, Clayton, VIC 3800 Australia T: +61 3 9905 4564 <+61%203%209905%204564> E: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu W: homepage: http://users.monash.edu.au/~naotsugt/Tsuchiya_Labs_Homepage http://med.monash.edu.au/psych/email-sig/miccn-email-sig.jpg <http://www.monash.edu/neuro-institute/> 2. ARC Future Fellow 3. Visiting Researcher at Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging, Advanced Telecommunications Research (ATR), Japan 4. Visiting Researcher at CiNet, Osaka University, Japan orcid.org/0000-0003-4216-8701

1 0

Postdoc at University of Leicester, UK
by Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo (Prof.) Jan. 6, 2018

Jan. 6, 2018

We are looking for a postdoc at the Centre for Systems Neuroscience at the University of Leicester, UK. The candidate will work on the analysis and recording of neurophysiology data as part of the research activities of the Centre for Systems Neuroscience (www.le.ac.uk/csn) The project will investigate concept representations in the mice hippocampus, analogous to the type of concept representations we have described in the human hippocampus – what are known as concept cells (a.k.a. Jennifer Aniston neurons) – that means, neurons that selectively fire to specific concepts, like different pictures and the written or spoken name of a particular person (see e.g. Quian Quiroga et al, Nature 2005; Quian Quiroga Nature Reviews Neuroscience 2012; Quian Quiroga et al, Scientific American 2013). The successful candidate will contribute to the recording and, particularly, the analysis of the 2-photon imaging and electrophysiology data collected in head fixed mice performing tasks in a virtual reality setup. The synergy between the human and mice recordings aims at gaining a deeper understanding of type of neural representations used by different species for memory processes. The candidate will not only contribute to the collection and analysis of the data but also to the development and optimization of advance methods for its analysis. The candidate should have, or be close to completing, a PhD in an area related to Neuroscience or signal processing (physics, mathematics, engineering, computer sciences). She/He will also have excellent programming skills, particularly in Matlab, a very good background on signal processing and, ideally, experience in neurophysiology recordings. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof. Rodrigo Quian Quiroga (rqqg1(a)le.ac.uk) To apply and for more details see: https://ig5.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_UniversityOfLeicester01.asp?newms=jj&id=1015… Please add a statement of research interests in your cover letter. The closing date for applications is: 25th January 2018. Rodrigo Quian Quiroga Centre for Systems Neuroscience University of Leicester www.le.ac.uk/csn

1 0

Call for Applications - 2018 Nengo Summer School
by Peter Blouw Jan. 4, 2018

Jan. 4, 2018

[All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summerschool] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce a special version of our annual Nengo summer school that will host the* first public access* to *Braindrop*, a new mixed analog-digital neuromorphic chip developed in collaboration with Stanford and Yale. In addition to introducing Braindrop, this two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems, and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun [1]. Nengo is also being used to program a variety of state-of-the-art neuromorphic chips, including Braindrop! For a look at last year's summer school, check out this short video: https://goo.gl/4tVUkQ We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, research associates, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. [1] Eliasmith, C., Stewart T. C., Choo X., Bekolay T., DeWolf T., Tang Y., Rasmussen, D. (2012). A large-scale model of the functioning brain. Science. Vol. 338 no. 6111 pp. 1202-1205. DOI: 10.1126/science.1225266. [ http://compneuro.uwaterloo.ca/files/publications/eliasmith.2012.pdf] Application Deadline: February 15, 2018 *Format*: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, modeling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: - interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware - build perceptual, motor, and cognitive models using spiking neurons - model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data - use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model - integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models - interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems - implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models - and much more... *Date and Location:* June 3th to June 15th, 2018 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. *Applications*: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summerschool, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Peter Blouw (peter.blouw(a)appliedbrainresearch.com) We look forward to hearing from you!

1 0

Call for postdoctoral researcher in Kyoto university: Neuro-imaging with endoscope microscopy
by Hidetoshi Urakubo Jan. 4, 2018

Jan. 4, 2018

Dear Colleagues, We are seeking highly motivated post doctoral researchers working for a project (from 2017 October to 2023 March) developing neuro-imaging with endoscope microscopy to reveal to reveal function of corticostriatal circuit of mouse brain. We require a candidate with solid background on one of the following topics: local circuit model of neurons, neural basis of reinforcement leaning, and signal processing of neuronal activity. For this position, basic qualifications include PhD in relevant fields with proven track record of peer-reviewed publications, as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and/or Japanese. The researcher will participate in the project with our researchers from various backgrounds including computational neuroscience, systems biology, bioinformatics, mathematical engineering, and machine learning. Our laboratory is also collaborating with Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR), University of Tokyo, Okinawa institute of science and technology (OIST), RIKEN Brain Science Institute, and other international laboratories. Sincerely, Hidetoshi Urakubo [Job title and Job description] Title is a Full-time Researcher / Full-time Research Engineer Work location is in the main campus of Kyoto University. (Yoshida honmachi 36-1, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-city, Japan. 606-8501) The contract is annually renewable up to the end of those projects based on the evaluation. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Social insurance will be applied. Days off include weekends, public holidays, Year-end and New Year holidays, Foundation Day, and summer vacation. These and other provisions are in accordance with Kyoto University’s regulations. [Application and required documents] Please send the following five materials to the address below, either in printed or electronic form: 1. Complete CV 2. List of publications 3. Reprints of 1 to 3 major publications 4. Document (one or two pages in A4 or letter size) describing: - Summary of your previous research - Interests and proposal for research 5. Two letters of recommendation (including one from the current supervisor, if available) [Selection process] Selection will be made based on application screening and interviews. [Requirements] Applicants must: - have a Ph.D. (or be near completion). - have strong motivations and ambitions to participate in the research above. [Deadline for application] Feb. 15th (will remain open if positions are not filled) [Send application to] Shigeyuki Oba Integrated Systems Biology Laboratory (Prof. Shin Ishii), Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University Yoshida-honmachi, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan Email: Shigeyuki Oba <ishii-secr [at] sys.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp> http://ishiilab.jp/kyoto/en/

1 0

Florence Levy Kay Fellow in Philosophy and Neuroscience
by Paul Miller Jan. 2, 2018

Jan. 2, 2018

*Florence Levy Kay Fellow in Philosophy and Neuroscience* *[POSTDOC] BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY*in Waltham, Massachusetts invites applications for a two-year, non-renewable Florence Levy Kay Fellowship in Philosophy and Neuroscience, beginning Fall 2018.The Kay Fellow will be appointed as a faculty member at the rank of lecturer with a joint appointment in Philosophy and Neuroscience. The ideal applicant will have an educational background in philosophy and neuroscience, and a demonstrated ability to foster formal and informal conversations among philosophers, psychologists, and neuroscientists.The postdoctoral fellow will actively pursue his or her own research and teach one course per semester, including a course in Neuro-ethics, while participating in and contributing to the intellectual life of the Philosophy Department, Neuroscience Program and the Brandeis community.Applicants must have a Ph.D. in hand by the start of the fellowship. The fellowship includes a salary of $57,500, plus benefits, with moving expenses (around $1,500), and a research fund of up to $4,000 per year.Questions about the position may be directed to Julie Seeger at jseeger(a)brandeis.edu. Applications, which should be submitted through AcademicJobsOnline at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/10500, should include a CV, a brief statement of research and teaching interests, a succinct writing sample, and three letters of reference.First consideration will be given to applications submitted by January 15, 2018. Brandeis University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty, students and staff.Women and underrepresented minority candidates are encouraged to apply.Consideration will also be given to candidates whose experience in teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to diversity and excellence.Brandeis University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

1 0

15 Academic Positions at the University of Melbourne
by Uwe Aickelin Jan. 2, 2018

Jan. 2, 2018

[Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this announcement] The University of Melbourne School of Computing and Information Systems is seeking applicants for 15 continuing (i.e. tenure-track / permanent ) Lecturer and Senior Lecturer positions. We seek dynamic academics with expertise in Computer Science or Information Systems who have the potential to build a stellar teaching and research career at Melbourne. The School of Computing and Information Systems is an international research leader in computer science, information systems and software engineering. In this discipline, the School was ranked number 1 in Australia and 13th in the world in the 2016 QS World University Ranking exercise. We are particularly seeking applicants with expertise in the areas of business information systems, health informatics/digital health, software engineering, cybersecurity, or high-performance and distributed systems, but applicants whose work is aligned with any of the research groups in the School are encouraged to apply. Applications close on 15 Jan 2018. The positions are advertised at http://go.unimelb.edu.au/jsp6, where the formal position description and a brochure with more information are available. Contact Karin Verspoor karin.verspoor(a)unimelb.edu.au<mailto:karin.verspoor@unimelb.edu.au> for enquiries and further information.

1 0

Department of Scientific Computing
by Gordon Erlebacher Dec. 31, 2017

Dec. 31, 2017

Dear Colleagues, Florida State State University’s Department of Scientific Computing (DSC; https://sc.fsu.edu) is currently accepting applications for its interdisciplinary Masters and PhD programs. These programs provide graduate students broad and deep knowledge of the fundamental techniques used in computational modeling and data science, significant exposure to at least one application domain, and the opportunity to conduct significant original research in algorithms and/or applications relating to computational and data science,including deep learning and neuroscience. A brief overview of the MS and PhD programs can be found at http://sc.fsu.edu/education . To be considered for funding, the deadline for application for the Fall 2018 cohort is January 15, 2018. Application information can be found at https://www.sc.fsu.edu/graduate/application. Self-funded applicants interested in our one-year MS program are considered throughout the Spring Semester. Please forward this message (and the attached brochure) along to any students that you think might be interested in our graduate program. Requests for more information and questions about the graduate programs or about the Department of Scientific Computing should be addressed to the Graduate Coordinator Dr. Sachin Shanbhag at sshanbhag(a)fsu.edu or to the Chair Gordon Erlebacher (Chair) at gerlebacher(a)fsu.edu. Thank you! Regards, Gordon /Erlebacher ------------- Gordon Erlebacher Chair, Department of Scientific Computing Florida State University https://sc.fsu.edu -- Gordon Erlebacher Chair, Department of Scientific Computing

1 0

BioSystems - Special Issue on Neural Coding 2016 (Vol. 161, November 2017)
by Lubomir Kostal Dec. 31, 2017

Dec. 31, 2017

Dear Colleagues, We would like to announce a BioSystems Special Issue on Neural Coding: BioSystems -- Volume 161 - November 2017 Available online for download now from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03032647/161/supp/C?sdc=1 The Table of Contents of this special issue can be seen at the end of this email. Best wishes for a happy new year, Guest Editors Chris Christodoulou, Lubomir Kostal and Angar Büschges ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ BioSystems - Contents -- Volume 161 - November 2017 Special Issue: Neural Coding 2016 (Selected papers presented at the Twelventh International Workshop on Neural Coding, Cologne, Germany, 2016) Available online for download now from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03032647/161/supp/C?sdc=1 Editorial Chris Christodoulou, Lubomir Kostal and Angar Büschges To swim or not to swim: A population-level model of Xenopus tadpole decision making and locomotor behaviour Roman Borisyuk, Robert Merrison-Hort, Steve R. Soffe, Stella Koutsikou, Wen-Chang Li Linked Gauss-Diffusion processes for modeling a finite-size neuronal network M. F. Carfora, E. Pirozzi Information reduction in a reverberatory neuronal network through convergence to complex oscillatory firing patterns A. Vidybida, O. Shchur Efficiency of rate and latency coding with respect to metabolic cost and time Marie Levakova A single spike deteriorates synaptic conductance estimation Ryota Kobayashi, Hiroshi Nishimaru, Hisao Nishijo, Petr Lansky Synchrony measure for a neuron driven by excitatory and inhibitory inputs and its adaptation to experimentally-recorded data Christina Zavou, Antria Kkoushi, Achilleas Koutsou, Chris Christodoulou Dynamical properties of LFPs from mice with unilateral injection of TeNT Eleonora Vannini, Matteo Caleo, Santi Chillemi, Angelo Di Garbo Functional data analysis of single-trial auditory evoked potentials recorded in the awake rat Ondřej Pokora, Jan Koláček, Tzai-Wen Chiu, Wei Qiu Upozorneni: Neni-li v teto zprave vyslovne uvedeno jinak, ma tato E-mailova zprava nebo jeji prilohy pouze informativni charakter. Tato zprava ani jeji prilohy v zadnem ohledu ustavy AV CR, v.v.i. k nicemu nezavazuji. Text teto zpravy nebo jejich priloh neni navrhem na uzavreni smlouvy, ani prijetim pripadneho navrhu na uzavreni smlouvy, ani jinym pravnim jednanim smerujicim k uzavreni jakekoliv smlouvy a nezaklada predsmluvni odpovednost ustavu AV CR, v.v.i. Disclaimer: If not expressly stated otherwise, this e-mail message (including any attached files) is intended purely for informational purposes and does not represent a binding agreement on the part of Institutes of CAS. The text of this message and its attachments cannot be considered as a proposal to conclude a contract, neither the acceptance of a proposal to conclude a contract, nor any other legal act leading to concluding any contract; nor does it create any pre-contractual liability on the part of Institutes of CAS.

1 0

Postdoctoral position in quantitative biological modeling
by William L. Kath Dec. 30, 2017

Dec. 30, 2017

We are looking to fill a postdoctoral position in our department through an NSF-funded Research Training Program in Quantitative Biological Modeling. Could you please be so kind as to pass this information along to anyone who would be interested or might know of suitable candidates? Note that NSF requires postdoctoral fellows to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. More details about the positions and the program are listed below. I've also linked a flyer suitable for printing and posting at http://people.esam.northwestern.edu/~kath/rtg_advertisement_2018.pdf Best regards, - Bill Kath ------------------------------------------------- Postdoctoral Fellowships in Quantitative Biological Modeling Department of Applied Mathematics, Northwestern University Overview: The Department of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics is soliciting applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in quantitative biological modeling that will be available starting September 1, 2018. This position is part of a National Science Foundation Research Training Grant (NSF-RTG). Duties: The postdoctoral fellow will conduct research on the quantitative modeling of biological systems and will teach three quarter courses per year in the department. The position will typically be for three years. The postdoctoral fellow will additionally participate in RTG-related training and career development activities. Environment: The postdoctoral fellow will be part of an interdisciplinary environment focusing on current problems in experimental and computational biology. The fellow will gain experience from training in mathematical modeling, numerical methods, and modern data analysis/statistical tools relevant to biological problems. Research internships outside of Northwestern will broaden the fellow's perspectives. The fellow's research will be mentored by faculty from both applied mathematics and a biological discipline. Ongoing collaborations exist with faculty in Neurobiology, Molecular Biosciences, Environmental Engineering and Preventive Medicine, and additional areas of interest are welcome. An overall goal of the program is to broaden computational biological modeling in the department and at Northwestern. Requirements: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae, three reference letters (one addressing teaching qualifications) and brief research and teaching statements online at the URL: https://openposition.mccormick.northwestern.edu/apply/index/NjY= If desired, one or two representative publications may also be submitted. For full consideration applications should be received by January 15, 2018. Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Inquiries about the position may be directed to: Hermann Riecke Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics Northwestern University 2145 Sheridan Road Evanston, IL 60208-3125 Phone: (847) 491-3345 Email:h-riecke@northwestern.edu http://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/applied-math/ -- William L. Kath, Professor Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3125 Phone: 847-491-8784 Fax: 847-491-2178

1 0

Direct PhD Track - Brain Sciences: Computational and Information Processing
by Nili Vershov Dec. 27, 2017

Dec. 27, 2017

*Direct PhD Track* *Brain Sciences: Computation and Information Processing* Now Accepting Applications from International Students! *Submission Deadline: February 1st, 2018* *For more information:* https://elsc.huji.ac.il/phd-program-computational-neuroscience -- *Nili Vershov* *Ph.D Program C**oordinator * *Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences* *The Hebrew University of Jerusalem* *Tel: +972-26584899 <+972%202-658-4899>* *Cell: +972-507858847 <+972%2050-785-8847>* ------------------------------ This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended addressee (or authorized to receive for the intended addressee), you may not use, copy or disclose to anyone the message or any information contained in the message. If you have received the message in error, please advise the sender by reply and delete the message . To the extent contractual confidentiality obligations exist, this message and all information transmitted with it are designated "Confidential".

1 0

Call for papers & tutorials: PRNI (Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging) 2018
by Yuvaraj Rajamanickam (Dr) Dec. 27, 2017

Dec. 27, 2017

******* please accept our apologies for cross-posting ******* -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST CALL FOR PAPERS AND TUTORIALS PRNI 2018: 8th International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging to be held 12-14 June 2018 at the National University of Singapore, Singapore www.prni.org<https://webmail.ntu.edu.sg/owa/redir.aspx?C=zAsK2tVRfU-VqajW2fbnHXBsaTVlUtU…> - @PRNIworkshop - www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/<https://webmail.ntu.edu.sg/owa/redir.aspx?C=zAsK2tVRfU-VqajW2fbnHXBsaTVlUtU…> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The 8th International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging (PRNI) will be held at the Centre for Life Sciences Auditorium, National University of Singapore, Singapore on June 12-14, 2018.Pattern recognition techniques are an important tool for neuroimaging data analysis. These techniques are helping to elucidate normal and abnormal brain function, cognition and perception, anatomical and functional brain architecture, biomarkers for diagnosis and personalized medicine, and as a scientific tool to decipher neural mechanisms underlying human cognition. The International Workshop on Pattern Recognition in Neuroimaging (PRNI) aims to: (1) foster dialogue between developers and users of cutting-edge analysis techniques in order to find matches between analysis techniques and neuroscientific questions; (2) showcase recent methodological advances in pattern recognition algorithms for neuroimaging analysis; and (3) identify challenging neuroscientific questions in need of new analysis approaches. Authors should prepare full papers with a maximum length of 4 pages (two column IEEE style) for double-blind review. The manuscript submission deadline is 04 April 2018, 11:59 pm SGT. Accepted manuscripts will be assigned either to an oral or poster sessions; all accepted manuscripts will be included in the workshop proceedings. Similarly to previous years, in addition to full length papers PRNI will also accept short abstracts (500 words excluding the title, abstract, tables, figure and data legends, and references) for poster presentation. Finally, this year PRNI has an open call for tutorial proposals. A tutorial can take a form of 2h, 4h or whole day event aimed at demonstrating a computational technique, software tool, or specific concept. Tutorial proposals featuring hands on demonstrations and promoting diversity (e.g. gender, background, institution) will be preferred. PRNI will cover conference registration fees for up to two tutors per accepted program. The submission deadline is also 04 April 2018, 11:59 pm SGT. Please see www.prni.org<https://webmail.ntu.edu.sg/owa/redir.aspx?C=zAsK2tVRfU-VqajW2fbnHXBsaTVlUtU…> and follow @PRNIworkshop and www.facebook.com/PRNIworkshop/<https://webmail.ntu.edu.sg/owa/redir.aspx?C=zAsK2tVRfU-VqajW2fbnHXBsaTVlUtU…> for news and details. ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY: This email is intended solely for the person(s) named and may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it, notify us and do not copy, use, or disclose its contents. Towards a sustainable earth: Print only when necessary. Thank you.

1 0

Announcing Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2018
by Erik De Schutter Dec. 25, 2017

Dec. 25, 2017

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2018 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 25 to July 12, 2018 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 25th through July 12th, 2018 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc) only; January 1 - February 3, 2018. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 15th OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and provides partial travel support. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Maxim Bazhenov (University of California San Diego, USA) • Michael Brecht (Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Germany) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Shaul Druckmann (Janelia Research Campus, USA) • Karl Friston (Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, UCL, UK) • Wulfram Gerstner (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland) • Michele Giugliano (University of Antwerp, Belgium) • Mitsuo Kawato (ATR, Japan) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Kazuhisa Shibata (Nagoya University, Japan) • Olaf Sporns (Indiana University, USA) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Tatjana Tchumatchenko (MPI for Brain Research, Frankfurt, Germany) • Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova (University of Exeter, UK) • Yoko Yazaki-Sugiyama (OIST)

1 0

COSYNE 2018: Cosyne tutorial session, Travel grants, Registration
by Tomas Hromadka Dec. 23, 2017

Dec. 23, 2017

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2018 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 01 - 04 March 2018 Denver, Colorado WORKSHOPS 05 - 06 March 2018 Breckenridge, Colorado www.cosyne.org ==================================================== IMPORTANT DATES Online registration is now open. Travel grant submission is now open. Hotel booking is currently open. Travel grant application deadlines Dec 31, 2017, 11.59PM PST (*Undergraduate* Travel Grant) Jan 17, 2018, 11.59PM PST (Other travel grants) ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. For details on workshop proposals please see below or visit Cosyne.org -> Workshops. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, and computation with spiking networks. We would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE TUTORIAL SESSION ---------------------------------------------------- This year, Cosyne is hosting its first tutorial session. The tutorial on "Statistical models for neural data: from GLMs to latent variables" will be given by Jonathan Pillow on 01 March, before the main meeting starts. Space is limited. You can register for the tutorial when registering for the main meeting. For details on the tutorial and registration, see Cosyne.org -> Tutorial and Cosyne.org -> Registration. ----------------------------------------------- TRAVEL GRANTS ----------------------------------------------- Applications are now open for travel grants to attend the conference. Each awardee will receive at least $500 to help offset the costs of travel, registration, and accommodations. Larger grants may be available to those traveling from outside North America. Special consideration is given to scientists who have not previously attended the meeting, under-represented minorities, students who are attending the meeting together with a mentor, undergraduate students, and authors of submitted Cosyne abstracts. We currently offer five travel grant programs for New Attendees, Presenters, Mentors, Undergraduates, and Childcare travel grants. For details on applying, see Cosyne.org -> Travel grants. COSYNE SPEAKERS Tim Behrens (Oxford) Josh Berke (UCSF) Tiago Branco (UCL) Jessica Cardin (Yale) Claudia Clopath (Imperial) Marlene Cohen (Pittsburgh) Iain Couzin (Max-Planck) Carina Curto (Penn State) Ann Graybiel (MIT) Vivek Jayaraman (Janelia) Mate Lengyel (Cambridge) Joni Wallis (Berkeley) Byron Yu (CMU) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Ilana Witten (Princeton) and Eric Shea-Brown (U Washington) Program Chairs: Linda Wilbrecht (Berkeley) and Brent Doiron (U Pittsburgh) Workshop Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU) and Ralf Haefner (U Rochester) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Robert Wilson (U Arizona) Publicity Chair: Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org COSYNE MAILING LISTS Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> Mailing lists for details.

1 0

EPSRC funded PhD in Computational/Mathematical Neuroscience (funded for UK students)
by James Rankin Dec. 21, 2017

Dec. 21, 2017

*3 EPSRC funded PhD positions in Computational & Mathematical Neuroscience* UK students (or students who have spent last 3 years in UK) fully funded (fees and stipend) EU students partially funded (fees but no stipend) International students not eligible *Application deadline: 10th January 2018* Starting: September 2018 The studentships will provide funding for a stipend which is currently £14,553 per annum for 2017-2018. It will provide research costs and UK/EU tuition fees at Research Council UK rates for 42 months (3.5 years) for full-time students, pro rata for part-time students. * Cortical network models to understand differential input response properties during active and silent states* Supervisors: Dr James Rankin and Dr Mick Craig (Medical School, Exeter) http://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/?id=2903 * Determination of parameter dependencies across diverse populations of neuronal and excitable cells* Supervisors: Dr James Rankin and Dr Joel Tabak (Medical School, Exeter) http://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/?id=2932 *The neural circuitry mediating multisensory integration in Platynereis larvae* Supervisors: Dr James Rankin and Prof Gáspár Jékely (Living Systems Institute, Exeter) http://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/?id=2901 Apply through links above or contact pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk or j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk directly with any questions. -- http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/jar226

1 0

Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling 2018
by Jelmer Borst Dec. 20, 2017

Dec. 20, 2017

Third Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling – ACT-R, Nengo, PRIMs, & Accumulator Models – Date: April 9-13, 2018 Location: Groningen, the Netherlands Fee: € 250 (late fee after January 31 will be € 300) More information and registration: www.cognitive-modeling.com/springschool <http://www.cognitive-modeling.com/springschool> We are happy to announce the third Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling (April 9-13, 2018). As in previous years, it will cover four different modeling paradigms: ACT-R, Nengo, PRIMs, and Accumulator models. It thereby offers a unique opportunity to learn the relative strengths and weaknesses of these approaches. See the attached flyer for more information about the paradigms. Each day will consist of four theory lectures, one on each modeling paradigm. Each paradigm also includes hands-on assignments. Although students are free to choose the number of lectures they attend, we recommend students to sign up for lectures on two of the paradigms, and complete the tutorial units for one of the paradigms. At the end of each day there will be a plenary research talk, to show how these different approaches to modeling are applied. The Spring School will be concluded with a keynote lecture and a conference dinner. This year we also offer the opportunity for project students to attend. The idea is that you have attended the spring school in an earlier year and now come back in the week of the spring school to work on your own modeling project under our supervision. Admission is limited, so register soon! We are looking forward to seeing you in Groningen! Niels Taatgen Jelmer Borst Marieke van Vugt Terry Stewart & Katja Mehlhorn

1 0

Postdoctoral Swartz Fellowship Positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience at Yale University
by Murray, John Dec. 20, 2017

Dec. 20, 2017

The Swartz Center in Theoretical Neurobiology at Yale University invites applications for up to two postdoctoral positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience, with start date mid or late 2018. Competitive candidates include those with a strong quantitative background who wish to gain neuroscience research experience. We especially encourage candidates with an interest in collaborating directly with experimental neuroscientists. The candidates will be expected to perform theoretical/computational studies relevant to one or more laboratories of the Yale Swartz Center (https://medicine.yale.edu/neuroscience/swartz/corelabs.aspx) and will be encouraged to participate in an expanding quantitative biology environment. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree. Please send a Curriculum Vitae, selected reprints, names of those whom we can contact for a reference, and a statement of research plans including the laboratories of interest. All application materials should be sent electronically to the following e-mail address: john.murray at yale.edu <mailto:john.murray at yale.edu>. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, but priority will be given to those received on or before January 20th 2018. For any questions, please contact John Murray <mailto:john.murray at yale.edu>. Yale University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Yale values diversity in its faculty, students, and staff and especially welcomes applications from women and underrepresented minorities. http://neurojobs.sfn.org/jobs/10584092/ John D. Murray ----------------------------------------------- Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Yale University School of Medicine murraylab.yale.edu<http://murraylab.yale.edu/> -----------------------------------------------

1 0

Assoc Prof and lectureships in Data Science and Predictive Modelling
by Bruce Graham Dec. 19, 2017

Dec. 19, 2017

Dear all, We have 3 new posts at the University of Stirling in Scotland (in addition to 3 posts in Cyber-security, advertised recently and still open for applications). The new posts are an Associate Professor and 2 lecturers in Data Science and Predictive Modelling and are part of an exciting new University of Stirling initiative to strengthen our Computing Science and Mathematics capabilities and collaborations between our Data Science and Biological Modelling research groups and strengthen our related research and teaching. Mathematicians, as well as computer scientists or related disciplines, are particularly encouraged to apply. Computational neuroscience, machine learning, neural networks and other topics of interest to this mailing list fall within the remit of these posts. For complete details and how to apply, please see: https://www.stir.ac.uk/about/jobs/ Closing date is 21st January 2018. For informal enquiries, please email me directly. Best regards, Bruce Graham -- Prof. Bruce Graham (b.graham(a)cs.stir.ac.uk) Professor of Computing Science and Research Director Computing Science and Mathematics Faculty of Natural Sciences University of Stirling Stirling FK9 4LA phone: +44 1786 467 432 fax: +44 1786 464 551 Coauthor of "Principles of Computational Modelling in Neuroscience", CUP 2011. Editorial Board of Journal of Biological Dynamics.

1 0

Post-doctoral research associate post in Computational Neuroscience, and PhD studentship in Computational Neuroimaging available
by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt Dec. 19, 2017

Dec. 19, 2017

1. A BBSRC funded post-doctoral research associate post in Computational Neuroscience is available at Ulster University, UK. The research project, in collaboration with The University of Oxford, is focused on analyzing and modelling serotonin and related brain systems. For more info, please see: <https://lnkd.in/eDsv3_i> https://atsv7.wcn.co.uk/search_engine/jobs.cgi?SID=amNvZGU9MTcwMzk4MyZ2dF90… 2. A fully funded Ph.D. studentship in Computational Neuroimaging of Dementia is available at Ulster University. The research project involves close collaboration with academics, clinicians and industrial partners. For more info, please see: <https://lnkd.in/e3scQ_H> https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/238180 Please contact me for more information if interested in the post/studentship. Best KongFatt Wong-Lin -------------------------------- E-mail: k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-wong-lin This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

1 0

Python Exercises and Online textbook: Neuronal Dynamics
by Wulfram Gerstner Dec. 19, 2017

Dec. 19, 2017

We have now finished a series of Python exercises for the book 'Neuronal Dynamics - from single neurons to populations and Models of Cognition' by Gerstner-Kistler-Naud-Paninski (Cambridge Univ. Press) To go directly to the exercises, click here http://neuronaldynamics.epfl.ch/exercises.html An html online version of the book for students (as well as some teaching material for lecturers) is available here: http://neuronaldynamics.epfl.ch <http://neuronaldynamics.epfl.ch/index.html> The pdf of the e-book and printed versions of the book are available via Amazon or Cambridge Univ. Press. The series of exercises has been tested in classes at the EPFL, but we thought that they might be also useful for students at other places, best regards Wulfram Gerstner, Alex Seeholzer, Marco Lehmann EPFL, Switzerland

1 0

Open position: Coordinator Scientific Computing at Research Center Juelich, Germany
by Martina Reske Dec. 19, 2017

Dec. 19, 2017

Dear Comp-Neuro community The Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM) investigates the structure and function of the human brain on different spatial and temporal scales within the research program “Decoding the Human Brain”. The brain’s high complexity and plasticity over the lifespan of an individual, as well as changes during neuropsychiatric disorders, requires the use of innovative imaging methods and supercomputing technology. Basic neuroscience research heavily relies on modeling and simulation, which are necessary to approach the brain’s immense complexity, manage the huge amount of resulting data, and develop reliable control techniques. Acquired knowledge allows for the translation of basic findings into clinical applications to better understand neurological and psychiatric disorders, to refine diagnostic processes, and to develop therapy strategies – crucial tasks we have to face in ageing societies. The department INM-6, Computational and Systems Neuroscience, develops mathematical models of neuronal dynamics and function. We are active in neuromorphic computing and develop simulation technologies and analysis tools. We are looking to recruit a Coordinator Scientific Computing Your Job: * Design and continuous advancement of a roadmap for scientific computing with regard to hard- and software * Designing a cloud infrastructure and digitized workflows in theoretical neuroscience * Studying international developments in hard- and software in the fields of simulation and data science in neuroscience * Planning, purchasing, set-up and management of UNIX, Linux, Mac OS and Windows systems, communication systems and software * Support of institute’s databases and online tools (webdav, git, wordpress, website); user management * Further development of simulation and analysis codes with regard to system near aspects * Measurement of energy-to-solution and time-to-solution of simulations and analysis codes for scientific studies * Direct support of scientists * Participation in working group leaders’ meeting * Participation in relevant IT committees at Forschungszentrum Juelich * Participation in educating staff in HPC aspects Your Profile: * Completed study of informatics, mathematics or physics * Substantial expertise in C, C++ and Python * Substantial knowledge of UNIX, Windows and Mac OS * Experience with administration of HPC clusters, file, web and print servers as well as with parallel computing (ideally in neuroscience) * Beneficial: Basic knowledge of neuroscience concepts * Ability and willingness to work independently and proactively * Confident appearance and ability to work cooperatively in an interdisciplinary environment * Good interpersonal and communication skills * Structured and systematic working style * Fluent in English (spoken and written) Our Offer: * International, interdisciplinary working environment on an attractive research campus, ideally situated between the cities of Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen * A comprehensive further training Programme * Flexible working hours and various opportunities to reconcile work and family life * Limited for 2 years with possible longer-term prospects * Salary and social benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD) Forschungszentrum Jülich aims to employ more women in this area and therefore particulary welcomes applications from women. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. We look forward to receiving your application, preferably online<https://www.hrecruiting.de/obf2/bewerbermanagement.php?kunden_nr=t5ChjatkIf…> via our online recruitment system on our career site, quoting the reference number 2017-321. Contact Human Resource Development and Recruiting Kristin Lux Tel.:+49 2461 61 9700 -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Operations Research in Neuroscience, Special Issue of Annals of Operations Research
by Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan Dec. 19, 2017

Dec. 19, 2017

Dear colleagues, [apologies for any crossposting] I would like to bring your attention to the special issue on applications of *Operations Research in Neuroscience* recently published in* Annals of Operations Research* Volume *258* Number 1 (Springer). ISSN: 0254-5330 (Print) 1572-9338 (Online) The volume is available online: https://link.springer.com/journal/10479/258/1?wt_mc=alerts.TOCjournals Please find the table of contents below. After a positive response from the journal and the publisher, we are planning to announce another special issue (SI) on the same topic in the same journal early next year. Please let me know if you are interested in contributing to this SI. Best Regards, Ruben ---- Ruben Tikidji-Hamburayn, Ph.D. =================================================================================== Preface *Operations research in neuroscience* Erik Kropat, Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan… Pages 1-4 OR in Neuroscience *A bi-objective network design approach for discovering functional modules linking Golgi apparatus fragmentation and neuronal death* Eduardo Álvarez-Miranda, Hesso Farhan, Martin Luipersbeck… Pages 5-30 OR in Neuroscience *Voxel-MARS: a method for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease by classification of structural brain MRI* Alper Çevik, Gerhard-Wilhelm Weber, B. Murat Eyüboğlu… Pages 31-57 OR in Neuroscience *A semi-supervised inattention detection method using biological signal* Yerim Choi, Jonghun Park, Dongmin Shin Pages 59-78 OriginalPaper *Structure preserving integration and model order reduction of skew-gradient reaction–diffusion systems* Bülent Karasözen, Tuğba Küçükseyhan, Murat Uzunca Pages 79-106 OR in Neuroscience *Totally model-free actor-critic recurrent neural-network reinforcement learning in non-Markovian domains* Eiji Mizutani, Stuart Dreyfus Pages 107-131 OR in Neuroscience *A comparative stationarity analysis of EEG signals* V. Rasoulzadeh, E. C. Erkus, T. A. Yogurt, I. Ulusoy… Pages 133-157 OR in Neuroscience *Anti-periodic solutions for state-dependent impulsive recurrent neural networks with time-varying and continuously distributed delays* Mustafa Şaylı, Enes Yılmaz Pages 159-185

1 0

Postdoc position in Bristol
by Cian O'Donnell Dec. 18, 2017

Dec. 18, 2017

A postdoctoral position is available to work on statistical analysis and computational modelling of large-scale two-photon imaging data of neural population activity from rodent neocortex. This work is part of a Simons Foundation-funded project that seeks to compare the fidelity and stability of neural coding of sensory stimuli between wild-type mice and Fragile-X Syndrome mouse models. The project is a collaboration between the computational neuroscience group of Cian O’Donnell at University of Bristol (http://seis.bris.ac.uk/~co15268) where you will be based, and the experimental neuroscience group of Carlos Portera-Cailliau at University of California, Los Angeles (https://porteralab.neurology.ucla.edu) You will be part of the growing Bristol Computational Neuroscience Unit (http://www.bris.ac.uk/engineering/research/computational-neuroscience; faculty Rui Costa, Conor Houghton, Nathan Lepora, Naoki Masuda, Rosalyn Moran, and Cian O'Donnell). You should ideally have a PhD in Computational Neuroscience or Machine Learning/Statistics, but we will also accept applications from candidates with PhDs in related disciplines such as Neuroscience, Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering. This post is offered on a full time, open-ended contract with funding for up to 18 months in the first instance. You should be able to start on or before April 2018. Please email Cian O’Donnell (cian.odonnell(a)bristol.ac.uk<mailto:cian.odonnell@bristol.ac.uk>) for informal enquires. More application details here: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BGN179/research-associate-senior-research-associa….

1 0

Open letter: A commitment to open source in neuroscience
by Andrew Davison Dec. 18, 2017

Dec. 18, 2017

Dear colleagues, We would like to point the members of this list to an initiative which resulted from a workshop on collaborative model development <https://www.janelia.org/you-janelia/conferences/collaborative-development-d…> at Janelia Research Campus. A number of participants agreed to sign an open letter committing to releasing as open source all the software they develop for data analysis and modelling in their publications (whether or not the article is specifically about the software). The letter and current signatories can be found here: http://opensourceforneuroscience.org/ <http://opensourceforneuroscience.org/> A NeuroView article describing this initiative has just been published in Neuron: A Commitment to Open Source in Neuroscience <http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(17)30981-9>. While many on this list are already sold on the idea of making their own code publicly available, there is another significant statement in the open letter: "If and when asked to serve as peer-reviewers, we will henceforth ask authors about the availability of any code they have developed for data analysis and modelling which is essential to reproducing the results of their paper and require that this be shared publicly upon acceptance." We hope that this public commitment will make it clear to the wider neuroscience community that trying to publish work on the assumption that they will not have to release their code will become more and more difficult, and that the sooner they plan to make it available the better for them and for the wider field. Regards, Padraig Gleeson Andrew P. Davison R. Angus Silver Giorgio A. Ascoli

1 0

Open position at Institute of Neuroinformatics (Zürich) / Institute of Neuroscience Paris Saclay (Orsay)
by Nicolas Giret Dec. 18, 2017

Dec. 18, 2017

*PhD or Post-Doc for neuroscientist or engineer: neural population activity associated with a complex learned behavior* Dear all, We have an open position for a PhD student or Post-Doc at the interface of engineering and neuroscience. This is a collaborative effort between the Institute of Neuroinformatics (ETH Zurich, University of Zurich) and the Neuroscience Paris Saclay Institute (CNRS, Université Paris Sud, Université Paris Saclay). The goal of our collaboration is to study the principles of vocal learning and communication in songbirds. We combine diverse experimental and theoretical approaches to gain new insights into higher cognitive functions associated with complex vocal behaviors such as song learning. We are interested in decoding neural activity associated with song production and song learning in songbirds. We have recently developed a system for simultaneously recording from many neurons in freely behaving animals. Our miniature lightweight motorized 32-channel recording device incorporates novel carbon fiber electrodes, as described in (Guitchounts, Markowitz, Liberti, & Gardner, 2013). The project is to refine and put this technology to use to study the mysteries of neural population codes and to advance our understanding of how individual neurons contribute to forming a representation of motor plans and of sensory feedback. The engineering part of the work will be done in Zürich, Switzerland (~1/3) and the testing will be done in Orsay, France (~2/3). We are looking either for a PhD student (CHF 47040 starting salary, ~40 200€) or a Post-doc (CHF 80000 starting salary 100%, ~68 500€). Depending on the required training of the post-doc, the employment percentage is reduced to a value between 70 and 90%. Your Profile: You have a MSc degree in neuroscience, electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, biology, or computer science or you have a PhD in neuroscience or engineering. You are strongly interested in neuroscience. You have expertise in signal processing and machine learning. You like to collaborate with biologists and engineers in a nurturing environment. You can work independently and want to be part of a team that fosters flexibility and innovation. The ETH is an equal opportunity employer, we believe in people and their ability to innovate. If you want to apply for this position, feel inspired to send your application material to Prof. Richard Hahnloser (rich(a)ini.ethz.ch <mailto:rich@ini.ethz.ch>) and to Dr Nicolas Giret (nicolas.giret(a)u-psud.fr <mailto:nicolas.giret@u-psud.fr>). It would be great if you could circulate it around in your institute. Best regards, -Nicolas Giret- -- *Chargé de Recherche CNRS* Institut des Neurosciences Paris Saclay, UMR9197 <http://neuro-psi.cnrs.fr/> Université Paris Sud, Univ. Paris Saclay, bât. 446 Rue Claude Bernard 91405 Orsay cedex France 00331.69.15.49.75 Personal website <https://sites.google.com/site/nicolasgiret/>

1 0

[jobs] Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in machine learning / robotics / computational neuroscience at QUT funded by Asian Office of Aerospace Research and Development (AOARD)
by Michael Milford Dec. 18, 2017

Dec. 18, 2017

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to continue research at QUT on the Asian Office of Aerospace Research and Development (AOARD)-funded research project "An infinitely scalable learning and recognition network". The role involves developing neuroscience-based machine learning systems to create highly compressible and scalable learning and recall systems for autonomous systems. In particular, we are modelling the multi-scale, periodic encoding properties of grid cells found in the mammalian brain to create sub-linear scaling mapping and localization systems, and then expanding these systems into other sensory domains including sound. The project has collaborative partners at Harvard and Uni Notre Dame in neuroscience, computer vision and machine learning. The role requires strong mathematical, machine learning, computer vision and large dataset processing skills, as well as paper writing and oral presentation experience. This appointment will be offered on a fixed- term, full-time basis for 1 (one) year. Pending further funding outcomes, the appointment may be extendable by another year. Apply and Enquiries To express an interest in the role or for any enquiries, please e-mail michael.milford(a)qut.edu.au<mailto:michael.milford@qut.edu.au> with the subject line "infinitemapping" and include: - a one page cover letter detailing your interest in and experience for the role, and the earliest date you could feasibly start, - a detailed resume including details of past research, and - a link to your Google Scholar profile. Applications close January 15th 2018. Best regards, Michael Milford Professor of Robotics, Queensland University of Technology

1 0

EPFL: faculty position in computational neuroscience
by Wulfram Gerstner Dec. 14, 2017

Dec. 14, 2017

The School of Life Sciences of the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) invites applications for an Assistant Professor (tenure track) position in Computational Neuroscience. In exceptional cases, appointment at the level of associate or full professor may also be considered. for details see: https://professeurs.epfl.ch/page-152604-fr.html Kind regards Wulfram Gerstner E-mail for enquiries regarding this position: bmi-search2(a)epfl.ch <mailto:bmi-search2@epfl.ch>

1 0

CFP: Special Session on “Neural Models for Behavior IJCNN 2018
by Pablo Barros Dec. 14, 2017

Dec. 14, 2017

Call for papers: special session on “Neural Models for Behavior Recognition” at IJCNN 2018 - http://www.ecomp.poli.br/~wcci2018/ International Joint Conference on Neural Networks, hosted at IEEE World Congress on Computational Intelligence (IEEE WCCI 2018) 8-13 July 2018, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Special Session on Neural Models for Behavior Recognition Organized by: Pablo Barros (Universität Hamburg, Germany), Bruno Fernandes (Universidade de Pernambuco, Brazil) and Stefan Wermter (Universität Hamburg, Germany) Categorizing and, to a certain degree, understanding human behavior is an important skill for autonomous systems. A robot able to identify whether a person needs help, an autonomous car to perceive whether a pedestrian is crossing the road, or a camera to localize someone in danger need a robust and reliable human behavior understanding. Although many different solutions have appeared in the past years, most of them do not take longer contextual information into consideration, usually only relying on instantaneous or short-context scenarios which limits the applicability of such systems in a real-world scenario. The potential of having neural models that take into consideration contextual information is substantial and it would be beneficial to develop this technology further for this field. To have a system which is capable of learning, understanding and generalizing human behavior within a longer contextual scene is a challenging task. With recent neural computing technologies, such as training and understanding deep neural networks, life-long learning and unsupervised approaches, to name a few, we believe that autonomous systems which are capable of learning from long-context human behavior are feasible. This kind of processing would provide contextual information which would be beneficial to understanding and acting in real-world scenarios. We invite papers on both practical and theoretical issues about neural learning for behavior recognition. In particular, topics of interest include, but are not limited to: - Gesture processing, recognition and/or generation - Models for emotional behavior analysis and/or understanding - Speech based sentiment analysis and/or dialog processing - Action recognition and/or generation - Crossmodal human behavior learning - Temporal architectures for human behavior learning - Emotional feedback and modulation in decision-making processes - Life-long learning for human behavior processing Submitted papers will be reviewed according to the IJCNN reviewing process and will be evaluated on their scientific value: originality, correctness, and writing style. More details: http://www.ecomp.poli.br/~wcci2018/submissions/#papersubmission IMPORTANT DATES: Paper submission: 15th January 2018 Paper acceptance: 15th March 2018 Final paper submission: 1st May 2018 Early registration: 1st May 2018 IEEE WCCI 2018 conference: 8-13 July 2018 Dr. rer. nat. Pablo Barros Knowledge Technology Department of Informatics University of Hamburg barros at informatik.uni-hamburg.de https://www.inf.uni-hamburg.de/en/inst/ab/wtm/people/barros.html https://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/ -- Dr.rer.nat. Pablo Barros Research Associate 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 www.knowledge-technology.info

1 0

PhD studentship in Biocomputation Research Group, Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research, University of Hertfordshire
by Shabnam Kadir Dec. 14, 2017

Dec. 14, 2017

Applications are invited for a *PhD studentship* on *Computational frameworks for high-dimensional neural data* with *Dr. Shabnam Kadir *in the *Biocomputation Research Group* in the Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research, University of Hertfordshire, U.K. *Project Description* New developments in experimental technology have led to petabytes of raw data being produced by experimental neuroscientists, which are increasingly publicly available, e.g. Allen Institute data http://www.brain-map.org/. In particular, we are in the realm where population recordings of tens of thousands of neurons are feasible thanks to, e.g. a new generation of large dense probes for electrophysiological recordings, imaging using 2-photon microscopy coupled with calcium fluorescent sensors. Large scale neuronal recordings require novel approaches for both processing and quantitative analysis. As well as using techniques from high-dimensional statistics, machine learning, information theory, we aim to explore new approaches from mathematical fields outside statistics, such as algebraic topology. The study of networks is a particularly important topic in neuroscience: neurons communicate with each other electrically via synapses, forming intricate networks. These networks can be studied using techniques from computational topology (e.g. persistent homology, clique topology). These could be used to extract information about subnetworks and assemblies, both from large scale recordings, and via connectomics derived from simulations (Blue Brain Project). We aim in this project to go beyond spike sorting and develop new tools and computational frameworks which would help interpret high dimensional data and interrogate how information is being processed by the brain, e.g. How are sensory stimuli (location in environment, visual and auditory stimuli) encoded? How can we characterise the neural activity associated with memory, attention, decision making and motor control? We shall be collaborating with labs at Imperial, Pennsylvania State University and UCL. More information can be found here: http://www.herts.ac.uk/_ _data/assets/pdf_file/0003/187455/Dec2017-computational-frameworks-for-high- dimensional-neural-data.pdf *Requirements * We are looking for candidates with the following profile: - Strong first degree in a quantitative field such as mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, computational neuroscience. - Strong programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C++). - Interest in neuroscience and biology would be helpful. A studentship from the PhD Programme in Computer Science provides approximately £14,550 per annum bursary plus the payment of student fees. Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible. Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognised as excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework Assessment, with 50% of the research submitted rated as internationally excellent or world-leading. The Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialised and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training and researcher development opportunities. The University is situated in Hatfield, in the green belt just north of London. Please contact *Dr Shabnam Kadir* (shabnam.kadir(a)imperial.ac.uk) for informal enquiries. Application forms are available under http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research/ the-phd-programme-in-computer-science and should be returned to Mrs Lorraine Nicholls and Mrs Emma Thorogood, Research Student Administrators, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, Tel: 01707 286083, doctoralcollegeadmissions(a)herts.ac.uk. The short-listing process will begin on 8 January 2018. The earliest start date will be mid-April 2018. -- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Shabnam Kadir Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London Royal School of Mines Exhibition Road London, SW7 2AZ United Kingdom ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

Connectome to Behaviour Discussion Meeting, London January 29th-31st 2018
by Stephen Larson Dec. 13, 2017

Dec. 13, 2017

Hi all, The Royal Society is hosting a 2-day discussion meeting on the topic of *Connectome to behaviour: modelling C. elegans at cellular resolution*. The meeting is an interdisciplinary look at the future of data collection for and simulation of the only complete adult nervous system that has been mapped at EM resolution. Free registration is available on the website: https://royalsociety.org/science-events-and-lectures/2018/01/mind-of-a-worm/ Additional events related to the OpenWorm Foundation (http://openworm.org) will occur the day following the discussion meeting, also in London. More details available here: http://blog.openworm.org/post/168271424220/royal-society-meeting-open-house… Please register for any events you plan to attend so we can get a good head count. I hope to see you in London! Best, Stephen -- Stephen D. Larson, Ph.D OpenWorm Project Director http://openworm.org

1 0

Complex Oscillatory Systems conference AMCOS, Barcelona March 2018 - 1 week until abstract submission deadline!
by AMCOS Conference Dec. 13, 2017

Dec. 13, 2017

*ONLY 1 WEEK UNTIL ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE* *AMCOS – ANALYSIS AND MODELING OF COMPLEX OSCILLATORY SYSTEMS* March 19-23, 2018 Barcelona, Spain The *AMCOS conference* aims at bringing together renowned experts and young researchers who work on the modeling of complex systems and the emergence of collective phenomena, as well as on the analysis of complex data sets in order to infer structure and functionality of networks. Accompanying TUTORIALS by leading experts will interactively introduce the different conference themes. Do you want to present your work? *Abstract submission deadline is in 1 week**.* More info at amcosconference.com. *DATE AND VENUE* March 19, 2018 March 20 - 23, 2018 PRBB <http://www.prbb.org/>, Biomedical Research Park of Barcelona *KEYNOTE SPEAKERS* - Leon Glass, - Damian H. Zanette. *LIST OF SPEAKERS (*TBC)* - Peter Ashwin, - Ernest Barreto, - Ginestra Bianconi*, - Raffaella Burioni, - Dante R. Chialvo, - Gustavo Deco, - Albert Díaz-Guilera, - Jordi Garcia-Ojalvo, - Wulfram Gerstner*, - Sonja Grün, - Cristina Masoller, - Yamir Moreno, - Florian Mormann, - Hiroya Nakao, - Diego Pazó , - Juan G. Restrepo , - Alex Roxin, - Tilo Schwalger. *TOPICS COVERED* synchronization and nonlinear dynamics - dynamics on networks - connectivity and network inference - data analysis in neuroscience - critical phenomena - neural field models - computational neuroscience - complex oscillatory behaviour in physiology *TUTORIALS* Leading experts in the field will introduce the different conference themes interactively in tutorials on the first day of the conference week. The speakers are: - Ralph G. Andrzejak, - Arkady Pikovsky, - Michael Rosenblum, - Aneta Stefanovska. A (tentative) list of topics comprises basic theory of synchronization, synchronization approach to data analysis, basic concepts of nonlinear time series analysis, and time series analysis of non-autonomous dynamics. The participants are required to bring laptops installed with MATLAB/Octave if they want to take part in the practical activities. ORGANIZERS The doctoral students (Early Stage Researchers <http://www.uni-potsdam.de/cosmos-itn/people/early-stage-researchers-esrs/>) of the H2020 Marie Curie project COSMOS <http://www.uni-potsdam.de/cosmos-itn/>. For further information see amcosconference.com or contact us via e-mail <amcosconference(a)upf.edu>. Please forward to anyone interested. Follow us on social media. Twitter: @amcosconference <https://twitter.com/amcosconference> Facebook: amcosconference <https://www.facebook.com/amcosconference/>

1 0

RaPID-2 2018 Workshop @ LREC: Resources and ProcessIng of linguistic, para-linguistic and extra-linguistic Data from people with various forms of cognitive/psychiatric impairments
by Dimitrios Kokkinakis Dec. 13, 2017

Dec. 13, 2017

[Apologies if you receive multiple copies] *2nd Call for Papers* RaPID 2018: "*Resources and ProcessIng of linguistic, para-linguistic and extra-linguistic Data from people with various forms of cognitive/psychiatric impairments*" Half-day workshop at LREC2018 | Miyazaki, Japan | May 8th, 2018 Submission deadline: January 14th, 2018 (see also Important dates below) RaPID website: <https://spraakbanken.gu.se/eng/rapid-2018> The RaPID 2018 Workshop will follow up on the successful RaPID Workshop @ LREC2016 (<https://spraakbanken.gu.se/eng/rapid-2016>) *CALL FOR PAPERS:* RaPID-2018 will be an interdisciplinary forum for researchers to share information, findings, and experience on the creation and processing of data acquired or produced by people with various forms of mental, cognitive, neuropsychiatric, or neurodegenerative impairments, such as aphasia, dementia, autism, Parkinsons or schizophrenia. Particularly, the workshop focus on the creation, annotation, description, processing and analysis of linguistic, paralinguistic and extra-linguistic resources (e.g., spontaneous spoken language; audio-recorded samples and transcripts; eye tracking measurements; wearable and in-situ sensor data etc.) from individuals at various stages of these impairments and with varying degrees of severity in order to identify, extract, process, correlate, evaluate and disseminate various linguistic phenotypes and measurements and thus aid the diagnosis, monitor the progression or predict individuals at risk. A central aim is to facilitate the study of the relationships among various levels of linguistic, paralinguistic and extra-linguistic observations (e.g., acoustic measures; phonological, syntactic and semantic features; eye tracking measurements; sensors, signs and multimodal signals). Submission of papers are invited in all of the aforementioned areas, particularly emphasizing multidisciplinary aspects of processing such data and the interplay between clinical/nursing/medical sciences, language technology, computational linguistics, natural language processing (NLP) and computer science. The workshop will act as a stimulus for the discussion of several ongoing research questions driving current and future research by bringing together researchers from various research communities. *TOPICS OF INTEREST:* The topics of interest for the workshop session include but are not limited to: - Building, adapting and availability of linguistic resources, data sets and tools - Data collection methodologies - Acquisition and combination of novel data samples - Guidelines, annotation schemas, annotation tools - Addressing the challenges of representation, including dealing with data sparsity and dimensionality issues, feature combination from different sources and modalities - Domain adaptation of NLP tools - Acoustic/phonologic/phonetic, syntactic, semantic and pragmatic/discourse analysis of data; including modeling of perception (e.g. eye-movement measures of reading) and production processes (e.g. recording of the writing process by means of digital pens, keystroke logging etc.); use of gestures accompanying speech and non-linguistic behavior - Modeling and deep / machine learning approaches for early diagnostics, prediction, monitoring, classification etc. of various cognitive and psychiatric impairments - Information fusion - Evaluation of the significance of features in diagnostics - Evaluation of tools, systems, components, metrics, applications and technologies including methodologies making use of NLP - Evaluation, comparison and critical assessment of resources - Digital platforms/technologies for cognitive assessment and brain training - Involvement of medical/clinical professionals and patients - Ethical and legal questions in research with human data in the domain, and how they can be handled - Deployment - Experiences, lessons learned and the future of NLP/AI in the area *SUBMISSION DETAILS:* Papers are invited in all of the areas outlined in the Topics of interest, particularly emphasizing multidisciplinary aspects of processing such data and the interplay between clinical/nursing/medical sciences, language technology, computational linguistics, NLP, and computer science. We welcome also papers discussing problems derived from the design of relevant data samples and populations, but also the exploitation of results and outcomes as well as legal and ethical questions on how to deal with such data and make it available. The workshop solicits papers describing original research. Papers may preferably describe substantial and completed work, but may also focus on a contribution, a negative result, an interesting application nugget, a software package, a small, focused contribution *or* work in progress. The workshop will act as a stimulus for the discussion of several ongoing research questions driving current and future research and challenges by bringing together researchers from various research communities. RaPID-2018 will be a half-day LREC workshop to be held in the afternoon of Tuesday the 8th of May 2018. The oral presentations will be allocated 10-20 minutes (please see the program for details), possibly, followed by a common poster session (depending on the volume of received submissions). Submitted papers must be formatted according to the camera-ready style for LREC 2018 (style guidelines, templates etc. for the camera-ready papers are provided on LREC's main conference page/Submission), and submitted electronically in PDF format through the START conference manager page < https://www.softconf.com/lrec2018/RAPID-2/>. Authorship does not have to be anonymous and *papers should be 4-8 pages of content*. Additional, unlimited pages containing the list of references and appendices are allowed. We will strive to have all submissions reviewed by at least three, or more, members of the program committee. Depending on the volume of contributions, papers that describe systems or tools will be invited to give a demo of their system during a poster session. *IMPORTANT DATES:* - Second call for papers: 13th of December, 2017 - Submission deadline: Sunday 14th of January, 2018 - Notification of acceptance: Saturday 10th of February, 2018 - Early-bird registration for the main conference *and* workshops is the 15th of February, 2018 - Camera-ready papers: Sunday 10th of March 2018 - RaPID Workshop: Tuesday 8th of May, 2018 *CONTACT:* Dimitrios Kokkinakis: dimitrios _DOT_ kokkinakis _AT_ gu _DOT_ se *INVITED SPEAKER:* Yasunori Yamada, PhD. Aging Research, IBM Research - Tokyo. *ORGANIZING COMMITTEE:* - Dimitrios Kokkinakis, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Kristina Lundholm Fors, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Kathleen Fraser, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Charalambos Themistocleous, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Graeme Hirst, University of Toronto, Canada - Alexandra König, Geriatric Hospital Nice and the University of Côte d'Azur, France - Frank Rudzicz, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute and the University of Toronto, Canada *PROGRAMME COMMITTEE**:* - Osvaldo Agamennoni, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Argentina - Jan Alexandersson, DFKI GmbH, Germany - Eiji Aramaki, Kyoto University, Japan - Heidi Christensen, University pf Sheffield, UK - Simon Dobnik, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Marie Eckerström, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Jens Edlund, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden - Gerasimos Fergadiotis, Portland State University, USA - Kathleen Fraser, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Peter Garrard, St George's, University of London, UK - Lena Hartelius, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Graeme Hirst, University of Toronto, Canada - Kristy Hollingshead, Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition (IHMC), USA - Richard Johansson, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Masatomo Kobayashi, IBM Research, Tokyo, Japan - Dimitrios Kokkinakis, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Alexandra König, Geriatric Hospital Nice and the University of Côte d'Azur, France - Peter Ljunglöf, Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden - Kristina Lundholm Fors, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Marcus Nyström, University of Lund, Sweden - Paul Rayson, Lancaster University, UK - Vassiliki Rentoumi, SKEL, NCSR Demokritos, Greece - Fabien Ringeval, Université Grenoble Alpes, France - Frank Rudzicz, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute and the University of Toronto, Canada - Kairit Sirts, University of Tartu, Estonia - Hironobu Takagi, IBM Research, Tokyo, Japan - Charalambos Themistocleous, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Athanasios Tsanas, University of Oxford, UK - Magda Tsolaki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece - Spyridoula Varlokosta, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece - Åsa Wengelin, University of Gothenburg, Sweden - Yasunori Yamada, IBM Research, Tokyo, Japan ------------------------------ ------------------------------

1 0

BRAIN Initiative Fellows: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship (F32)
by Michele Ferrante Dec. 12, 2017

Dec. 12, 2017

The NIH has reissued a postdoctoral funding opportunity through the BRAIN Initiative to encourage applications from those with quantitative backgrounds including physics, math, chemistry, etc. Please share this information widely. *BRAIN Initiative Fellows: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship (F32)* - Purpose is to enhance research training of promising postdoctorates, early in their postdoctoral training period, who have the potential to become productive investigators in research areas that will advance the goals of the BRAIN Initiative. - Applications must be relevant to one or more goals of the BRAIN 2025 <https://braininitiative.nih.gov/pdf/BRAIN2025_508C.pdf> report, including neuroethics. - Formal training in analytical tools appropriate for the proposed research is expected to be an integral component. - Eligible trainees must be must be citizens or non-citizen nationals of the United States or have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence. - On the application due date, candidates may not have completed more than 12 months of postdoctoral training, excluding well-justified leave. - Due dates: *March 15, 2018; December 7, 2018; August 7, 2019; April 7, 2020.* - *Pre-submission Webinar December 12, 2017 at 1 PM EST https://nih.webex.com/nih/onstage/g.php?MTID=e48f6b7a4f3ca4f2172c591e4838af… <https://nih.webex.com/nih/onstage/g.php?MTID=e48f6b7a4f3ca4f2172c591e4838af…>* - Contact: Ashlee Van’t Veer Brain.Initiative.Training(a)nih.gov - RFA link: https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-MH-18-510.html

1 0

NIH/NSF funded postdoc (U Penn/U Houston/CU Boulder)
by Zachary Kilpatrick Dec. 12, 2017

Dec. 12, 2017

We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH/NSF funded interdisciplinary project that includes Joshua Gold (University of Pennsylvania), Krešo Josić (University of Houston), and Zack Kilpatrick (University of Colorado, Boulder). Our aim is to understand how the brain accumulates evidence in dynamic environments. The project is guided by the overriding hypothesis that brain networks involved in decision-making computations incorporate learned expectations of the environment to implement adaptive decision-making. We seek a candidate who can work at the interface of experimental, computational, and theoretical neuroscience. As part of an interdisciplinary team, The candidate will develop models of neural circuits that approximate normative evidence accumulation in dynamic environments. The candidate will also help to validate these models, using behavioral data from humans and neural recordings from primates performing dynamic decision tasks. For further information please contact Krešimir Josić (josic(a)math.uh.edu <mailto:josic@math.uh.edu>) or Zack Kilpatrick (zpkilpat(a)colorado.edu <mailto:zpkilpat@colorado.edu>)

1 0

Call for Workshops - Bernstein Conference 2018
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder Dec. 12, 2017

Dec. 12, 2017

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops directly preceding the Bernstein Conference 2018 in Berlin. ************************************************************** Important Dates: Satellite Workshops: September 25 - 26, 2018 Main Bernstein Conference: September 26 - 28, 2018 Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: March 15, 2018 Notification of Workshop acceptance: April 2018 ************************************************************** Since 2013, the Bernstein Conference hosts pre-conference workshops which provide a stage to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches and challenges in Computational Neuroscience and related fields. Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster debate, rather than a mere series of talks. The Bernstein Conference started out as the annual meeting of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience and has become the largest annual single-track Computational Neuroscience conference in Europe in recent years. Satellite Workshop schedule: September 25, 2018, 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm September 26, 2018, 8:30 am - noon Workshop proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. Workshop costs – FINANCIAL SUPPORT: All organizers and speakers of accepted workshops will receive a waiver for the workshop fee. Organizers of accepted workshops additionally receive a waiver for the main conference. Up to 10 selected workshops can receive financial support up to 1.500,00 € each. For further information about the conference, please visit the conference website http://www.bernstein-conference.de. INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSAL PREPARATION Workshop proposals must contain: 1) Workshop Title 2) Concise description of workshop topic 3) List of potential speakers indicating speaker commitment Please use the Workshop Proposal Form that can be downloaded here: http://www.nncn.de/de/bernstein-conference/2018/satellite-workshops Deadline for submission of Workshop proposals: March 15, 2018 CONTACT: bernstein.network(at)fz-juelich.de We are looking forward to seeing you in Berlin! WORKSHOP SELECTION COMMITTEE: Jakob Macke (Workshop Chair) Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Workshop Vice Chair) Axel Borst Nicolas Brunel Anne Churchland Claudia Clopath Gaute Einevoll Adrienne Fairhall Gilles Laurent (Program Chair) Mate Lengyel Elad Schneidman Susanne Schreiber (Program Vice Chair) Terry Sejnowski Henning Sprekeler (Conference Host) Fred Wolf -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 0

[meetings] 2nd CFP IEEE WCCI/IJCNN Special Session: Cognition and Development
by Nikolas HEMION Dec. 11, 2017

Dec. 11, 2017

=============== CALL FOR PAPERS =============== IEEE WCCI / IJCNN 2018 Special Session: Cognition and Development 8-13 July 2018, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Important dates: 15th January 2018 – Paper Submission 15th March 2018 – Paper Acceptance 1st May 2018 – Final Paper Submission 8-13 July 2018 – IEEE WCCI / IJCNN 2018, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Scope and Topics The special session aims at the presentation of the latest results in the investigation of machine learning and cognitive robotics models that are taking inspiration from our understanding of sensorimotor, cognitive, and social development in humans and other animals. The aim is twofold: On the one hand, the special session provides a platform for presenting insights about the functions and processes underlying developmental learning. On the other hand, it encourages discussion of the role of developmental aspects in learning, in particular in the light of the ongoing success of deep learning methods. Relevant research questions include: – How can deep learning models be improved by including developmental processes, such as intrinsic motivation, sensorimotor exploration, or social learning and interaction? – Is current deep learning methodology suited for autonomous and open-ended learning in cognitive robots? Or will it be necessary to consider developmental processes, and if so, which ones? – What are the mechanisms that allow a child or robot to autonomously develop cognitive capabilities? – How does the social and physical environment, with which the child interacts, shape and scaffold the child’s developing cognitive skills and knowledge? And how can machine learning systems (including cognitive robots) exploit these beneficial factors? – What is the relative contribution of Nature and Nurture in the development of human and machine intelligence? – What do qualitative stages during development, and body and brain maturational changes, tell us about the mechanisms and principles supporting development? The special session also encourages submissions of relevant research on cognition and development from other disciplines, such as child psychology, developmental linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, and interdisciplinary approaches to cognition and development. List of main topics: – developmental robotics – epigenetic robotics – developmental deep learning – neuro-robotics – bio-inspired and cognitive robotics – cognitive modelling – intrinsic motivation – sensorimotor development – cognitive development – social development – language acquisition Submission Guidelines: Please follow the general submission guidelines of the IEEE WCCI / IJCNN 2018 (see http://www.ecomp.poli.br/~wcci2018/) Please make sure to select the Special Session "Cognition and Development" as the "Main Research Topic" of your submission. Organizers: Nikolas J. Hemion, SoftBank Robotics Europe, Paris, France Anna-Lisa Vollmer, Bielefeld University, Germany Angelo Cangelosi, Plymouth University, UK Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, Inria Bordeaux, France -- Nikolas Hemion, Ph.D. Senior Researcher, AI Lab Manager SoftBank Robotics Europe 43 rue du Colonel Pierre Avia 75015 PARIS http://nikolas.hemion.org/ -- *This email and any attachment thereto are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed.If you are not the intended recipient, please be advised that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this email is strictly prohibited. In such case, please immediately advise the sender, and delete all copies and attachment from your system.This email shall not be construed and is not tantamount to an offer, an acceptance of offer, or an agreement by SoftBank Robotics Europe on any discussion or contractual document whatsoever. No employee or agent is authorized to represent or bind SoftBank Robotics Europe to third parties by email, or act on behalf of SoftBank Robotics Europe by email, without express written confirmation by SoftBank Robotics Europe’ duly authorized representatives.* ------------------------------ *Ce message électronique et éventuelles pièces jointes sont confidentiels, et exclusivement destinés à la personne ou l'entité à qui ils sont adressés.Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire visé, vous êtes prié de ne pas divulguer, copier, distribuer ou prendre toute décision sur la foi de ce message électronique. Merci d'en aviser immédiatement l'expéditeur et de supprimer toutes les copies et éventuelles pièces jointes de votre système.Ce message électronique n'équivaut pas à une offre, à une acceptation d’offre, ou à un accord de SoftBank Robotics Europe sur toute discussion ou document contractuel quel qu’il soit, et ne peut être interprété comme tel. Aucun employé ou agent de SoftBank Robotics Europe n'est autorisé à représenter ou à engager la société par email, ou à agir au nom et pour le compte de la société par email, sans qu’une confirmation écrite soit donnée par le représentant légal de SoftBank Robotics Europe ou par toute autre personne ayant reçu délégation de pouvoir appropriée.*

1 0

Postdoctoral position at Brandeis in theoretical neuroscience
by Jonathan Touboul Dec. 10, 2017

Dec. 10, 2017

A postdoctoral position is available at Brandeis University to work on exciting problems in theoretical neuroscience (mathematical-neuroscience.net <http://mathematical-neuroscience.net/> <http://mathematical-neuroscience.net/ <http://mathematical-neuroscience.net/>>). The techniques we employ rely on dynamical systems (with delays, multiple timescales, nonlocal terms or jumps) and stochastic processes (statistical physics), and our research topics include the analysis of the dynamics of neuron model or neural networks with heterogeneous elements, learning, memory and pathological brain states, as well as the embryonic development of neural assemblies. All projects will involve heavy collaboration with experimental groups in the Boston area, Paris and abroad. The positions are up to 3 year terms, contingent upon satisfactory progress, with competitive salary and benefits packages. The fellows will participate to the vibrant scholar life in the Boston area. The successful candidates will join the Mathematics Department at Brandeis University (http://www.brandeis.edu/departments/mathematics/ <http://www.brandeis.edu/departments/mathematics/> <http://www.brandeis.edu/departments/mathematics/ <http://www.brandeis.edu/departments/mathematics/>>) with strong ties to the Neuroscience group (http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/ <http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/> <http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/ <http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/>>). Opportunities to teach in the math department could be available and are encouraged! Candidates should have a Ph.D. in mathematics, (computational) neuroscience, physics or engineering and have an excellent track record of scholarship, have experience in dynamical systems and/or stochastic models, and be familiar with computational programing. Applications from under-represented groups are strongly encouraged. Candidates should send their applications through MathJobs with a CV, a cover letter indicating their research interests and professional goals: https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/11351 <https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/11351> <https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/11351 <https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/jobs/11351>> Best wishes, Jon http://mathematical-neuroscience.net <http://mathematical-neuroscience.net/>

1 0

4-year postdoc position in neural systems modelling at the University of Oslo
by Gaute Einevoll Dec. 9, 2017

Dec. 9, 2017

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Neural Systems Modelling Position as postdoctoral research fellow available at the Department of Bioscience at the University of Oslo. The fellowship period is 4 years, with 25 % compulsory work. Anticipated start date is 01.02.2018. Project description: We study neural processing and plasticity of neural circuits at multiple levels, from the morphological changes at the synapse to functional changes of network activity in behaving animals. The position will be part of the project 'BrainMatrix' funded by the Norwegian Research Council, and seeks to explore the biophysical and physiological roles of perineuronal nets (PNNs) in neuron information processing and plasticity. PNNs are extracellular protein complexes thought to act as long-lasting synaptic anchors, thereby defining stable structural and functional connectivity in widespread but discrete regions of the brain. The entire BrainMatrix project is built on interdisciplinary principles and will involve strong interaction between mathematical modelling and experimental goals across the levels of investigation. As such, a key feature of this position will be to work between the outstanding computational and experimental groups at Simula Research Laboratory (www.simula.no)<http://www.simula.no%29/> andthe University of Oslo (www.mn.uio.no/ibv/english/research/sections/fyscell/cinpla)<http://www.mn.uio.no/ibv/english/research/sections/fyscell/cinpla)>. For this reason, the candidate should have experience in either computational neurophysiology/cell electrophysiology or experimental, and a strong desire and potential to expand their skillset to include the other discipline. Job description: We are searching to fill a 4-year full time postdoctoral, with 75% of the time devoted to research and 25% reserved for other career promoting activities such as lecturing or mentoring. The successful candidate will develop and implement models for interrogating the effects of genetic and pharmacologic manipulation of PNNs on single neuron and network function in visual and spatial information processing. The modeling approach will take advantage of tools and resources available through the Human Brain Project, and developed locally such as the NEST and LFPy simulators. The experimental goals will involve opportunities to apply or learn classical slice electrophysiology and single/multi-unit extracellular recordings, as well as advanced in vivo optical recordings and in vivo patch clamping. Within the framework of the position duties corresponding to one year of compulsory work may be assigned. For more information, including on how to apply, see: https://www.jobbnorge.no/ledige-stillinger/stilling/145487/postdoctoral-res… Deadline for application: January 10th 2018 For questions, please contact: Associate Professor Andy Edwards, phone: +47 40472451, e-mail:andrew.edwards@ibv.uio.no ********************************************** Gaute T. Einevoll Faculty of Science and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Aas, Norway; Department of Physics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway Ph. +47-64965433, Mobile: +47-95124536 email: Gaute.Einevoll(a)nmbu.no<mailto:Gaute.Einevoll@nmbu.no>, web: compneuro.nmbu.no, cinpla.org

1 0

PhD positions at the University of Bristol
by Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira Dec. 8, 2017

Dec. 8, 2017

Wellcome Trust 4 year PhD Programme in Neural Dynamics University of Bristol Deadline for applications: Sunday 7 January 2018 Why investigate neural dynamics? A vital key to comprehending the brain is to understand how the complex changes in activity occurring at all levels of neural organization give rise to normal brain function. Furthermore, an understanding of normal brain activity will allow us to investigate abnormalities of neural dynamics that underlie many neurological and psychiatric disorders (e.g. epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia). Understanding neural dynamics<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=602&type=185&url=http…> requires interdisciplinary approaches that span many neuroscience areas, but crucially, also depends on the integration of experimental and clinical approaches with mathematical and computational expertise. This PhD programme trains a future generation of neuroscientists to successfully combine experimental and theoretical techniques in their research. Structure of the programme First year: students attend taught courses to gain an understanding of the biology of the nervous system and the ability to describe systems dynamics in mathematical models. Students carry out two extended research projects, each investigating dynamics in a different neural system. Each project is co-advised by one experimental or clinical neuroscientist and one mathematician or computer scientist. Subsequent years: Students develop one of the initial projects into a PhD project for the remaining 3 years. Who are we looking for? Applicants will have a 1st class/2.1 degree or a Masters in a biomedical science discipline or a relevant theoretical discipline (mathematics, computer science or physics). Crucially, we are looking for talented and motivated students willing to take up the many challenges in neural dynamics and who are open to learning about new disciplines and working across different fields. Why study at Bristol? Bristol has one of the largest concentrations of neuroscientists in Europe and is a major centre for basic and clinical neuroscience. The University of Bristol is an acknowledged world leader in many key areas of neural dynamics from both an experimental and theoretical perspective: Our research spans molecular, cellular and systems levels of neuroscience. Together with experts in systems dynamics, based in the Departments of Engineering Mathematics, Mathematics, Computer Science and the Bristol Robotics Lab we can provide considerable scope for ground breaking integrative research projects. How to apply: Application process: Please apply online at www.bris.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=602&type=185&url=http…> by selecting ‘Faculty of Biomedical Sciences’ and ‘Wellcome 4-year PhD in Neural Dynamics’ Please ensure you include a CV, and two referees plus a cover letter outlining your own neuroscience interests by Sunday 7 January 2018. Please upload your covering letter into the Personal Statement section of the application form. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview in late January. The Wellcome Trust provides a stipend and PhD registration fees at UK/EU student rate, research expenses, contribution towards travel and a contribution towards transferable-skills training. The Wellcome Trust does not pay fees at the overseas rate. For further information please see www.bristol.ac.uk/neural-dynamics<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=602&type=185&url=http…> or contact: Lindsey Watson, Graduate Administration Manager, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School (Lindsey.Watson(a)bris.ac.uk)

1 0

Scientist opening at the Allen Institute: "Simulation & Analysis of Human Circuit Dynamics"
by Costas Anastassiou Dec. 7, 2017

Dec. 7, 2017

Dear All: We are seeking a Scientist to be an essential team member in our ongoing effort to understand how the human brain processes information. The core responsibility for this position is to setup large-scale computational simulations and data analysis workflows from slice and in vivo brain physiology in humans. Find the full job description attached below. To apply for this position, apply through the link below: https://apply.hrmdirect.com/resumedirect/ApplyOnline/Apply.aspx?req_id=6535… Best, Costas -- Costas Anastassiou Assistant Investigator T: 206.548.8434 E: costasa(a)alleninstitute.org alleninstitute.org Professor (adj.) of Neurology University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, CA http://neuroscience.ubc.ca/people/Anastassiou Our mission at the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human brain works in health and disease. By implementing a team science approach on a large scale, we strive to generate useful public resources, drive technological innovations and discover fundamental brain properties through integration of experiments, modeling and theory. POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a Scientist to be an essential team member in our ongoing effort to understand how the human brain processes information. The core responsibility for this position is to setup large-scale computational simulations and data analysis workflows from slice and in vivo brain physiology in humans. More specifically, the Scientist will (i) design and conduct simulations with an existing large-scale computational framework allowing simulation of a multitude of reconstructed, interconnected and biophysically realistic human neurons (e.g. [Schomburg, Anastassiou et al, J Neurosci, 2012; Reimann, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2013]; (ii) analyze simulated and experimental data to establish structure-function relationships (e.g. [Taxidis, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2015]); (iii) develop dimensionally reduced representations of neural function (e.g. using machine learning or statistical data modeling) based on recorded signals (encoding) and develop methods for reconstructing! neural function from neural activity (decoding); (iv) compare computational findings with experimental observables. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES In close collaboration with theoreticians and experimental colleagues, design, implement and conduct single-neuron and large-scale network simulations of human middle temporal gyrus. Contribute to ongoing efforts in computational framework development (simulation and data analysis) as well as to scientific questions relevant to the system under investigation. Contribute to adjacent projects related to human pathophysiology and neurotherapies. Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences. Prepare written and oral reports on a regular basis. Maintain clear and accurate communication with supervisor, team members and external collaborators. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS PhD degree in computational neuroscience, physics, applied mathematics, bioengineering or related field. Strong background in scientific computing; experience in computational neuroscience is preferred, but other strong applicants will be considered (with background in computational physics, applied mathematics, biophysics, and related disciplines). Experience with parallel computing is a plus as well as familiarity with high-level programming languages such as Python. Familiarity with in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological monitoring techniques and analysis. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment. Strong publication record. Experience in pursuing research projects in collaborative fashion. Proven independent thinking and flexibility. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

1 0

[SUSPECTED SPAM] PhD at Florida Atlantic Universitys Center for Complex Systems and Brain Sciences
by Emmanuelle Tognoli Dec. 7, 2017

Dec. 7, 2017

Applications are currently being accepted for fully funded multidisciplinary PhD training in Complex Systems & Brain Sciences (http://www.ccs.fau.edu/phd_overview.php) at Florida Atlantic University. Students will be trained to perform cutting-edge brain research that combines neuro-behavioral and cognitive experiments, laboratory neurobiology, medical imaging, and computational/theoretical modeling. Research projects will focus on approaches to understanding the brain as a complex dynamical system, with possible concentrations in areas such as cognitive, developmental, social, and systems neuroscience, neurorobotics, molecular and cellular neurobiology, and neuronal regeneration. Individuals with undergraduate degrees in any pertinent discipline are invited to apply. Two routes are available to enter the PhD program: the Graduate Neuroscience Training Program (http://www.ibrain.fau.edu/gradneuro/) or directly into the core program from the Center for Complex Systems & Brain Sciences (http://www.ccs.fau.edu/requirements.php) Applicants should review both tracks to determine which one best suits their interests. Students may also submit applications to both tracks. Application deadline for the Graduate Neuroscience Training Program: December 11, 2017 Application deadline for the core PhD program in Complex Systems & Brain Sciences: January 15, 2018 -- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. -- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean.

1 0

Fully-funded four-year PhD studentship in Computational Neuroscience at Imperial College London
by Reichenbach, Johann D T Dec. 6, 2017

Dec. 6, 2017

An exciting PhD project in Computational Multisensory Neuroscience is available for UK/EU candidates in the group of Tobias Reichenbach (http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/reichenbach/index.html) at Imperial College London. The student will develop state-of-the art neuronal network models to investigate the effects of custom-build tactile stimuli on speech processing. The model development and results will be linked with neuroimaging and behavioural experiments, and will pave the way to aid speech comprehension in people with hearing impairments. The PhD position is part of the Center for Neurotechnology (http://www.imperial.ac.uk/neurotechnology/cdt) at Imperial College London. The successful candidate will join an international cohort of PhD students working on cutting-edge topics of computational and experimental neuroscience and engineering. To apply please visit the Centre's project page (http://www.imperial.ac.uk/neurotechnology/cdt/projects/) access the tab "Projects available for Oct 2018" and select the project "Engineering tactile signals to aid hearing in noisy backgrounds.” ------------------------------------------- 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/

1 0

PhD or postdoctoral position at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tübingen, Germany
by Filip Sobczak Dec. 5, 2017

Dec. 5, 2017

Dear Colleagues, The Department of High-field Magnetic Resonance at the Max Plank Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tübingen is offering one PhD or postdoctoral position under the supervision of Dr. Xin Yu (Group Leader at MPI for Biological Cybernetics). This position is open now until filled, starting in Jan, 2018. Research Description: Understand and learn to control the brain circuits underlying critical brain states, such as coma or arousal. Potential assignment: a) Build up a real-time bio-feedback controlling system for brain functional studies: i) Neural network system-based signal processing, ii) MR-guided robotic system development, iii) Machine learning-based multi-modal brain signal dynamic prediction. b) Implement the MRI/EEG/calcium recording methods for global brain state monitoring. c) Target specific nuclei with deep brain optogenetic stimulation methods to study circuit-specific brain state neuromodulation: hippocampus, lateral hypothalamus, and VTA. Students with strong computational skills are highly encouraged to apply for this position. Experience with viral transfection, or in vivo. / in vitro. electrophysiology in animal models (rodents) with brain injury is highly desirable. The candidates should bear a certain experience or strong interest in brain functional imaging, e.g. task-based BOLD fMRI. The Max Plank Institute for Biological Cybernetics is located in Tübingen, Germany. The High-field Magnetic Resonance Department is equipped with the 3T, 9.4T human MR scanner and 14.1T animal Bruker MR Scanner. The Max Planck Society is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer, and encourages applications from qualified women and minority candidates. Please send your CV (in English) to Dr. Yu (E-mail: xin.yu(a)tuebingen.mpg.de ). Dr. Yu has published seminal papers on high field MRI functional brain mapping in Nature Neuroscience, Nature Methods, Neuron, PNAS, NeuroImage etc.

1 0

Postdoctoral Associate Positions in Computational Psychiatry, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute
by Pearl Chiu Dec. 4, 2017

Dec. 4, 2017

Postdoctoral Associate Positions in Computational Psychiatry Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute Multiple postdoctoral associate positions are available immediately in the labs of Dr. Pearl Chiu and Dr. Brooks King-Casas at the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute (http://research.vtc.vt.edu/) Projects in the labs use fMRI to examine the neuroscience of motivated behavior and social influences on decision-making with methods from behavioral & computational neuroscience, experimental economics, computational psychiatry, and psychology; ongoing projects examine processes in healthy and psychiatric individuals. Qualified candidates with basic science, theoretical, and/or computational backgrounds are welcome, and training in applied science will be provided; a subset of projects also involve multi-dimensional biomarker development. For interested candidates, the labs provide plentiful opportunities to examine how neurobehavioral anomalies may be quantified and rehabilitated in depression, substance dependence, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, and at-risk adolescents. The labs are located in the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute in Roanoke, VA, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The VTCRI provides full access to outstanding infrastructure, including three research-dedicated Siemens 3T scanners and a high-throughput computing cluster. The successful candidate will play a lead role in highly collaborative multidisciplinary scientific efforts. Minimum requirements for the position include: 1) a PhD in computational or cognitive neuroscience, engineering, psychology, experimental economics, or a related field; 2) facility with computational neuroscience, signal processing, Bayesian inference, or machine learning; and 3) demonstrated potential for excellence. Please forward a statement of interest and CV. Three letters of recommendation will be requested from candidates under final consideration. Consideration of applications will begin immediately and will end when the positions are filled. Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Virginia Tech Carilion is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and is committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Send inquiries and materials to: Pearl Chiu, PhD and Brooks King-Casas, PhD chiup(a)vtc.vt.edu<mailto:chiup@vtc.vt.edu> and bkcasas(a)vtc.vt.edu<mailto:bkcasas@vtc.vt.edu>

1 0

1 PhD/PostDoc position in neuromorphic systems
by elisabetta chicca Dec. 4, 2017

Dec. 4, 2017

Dear colleagues, 1 PhD/PostDoc position is available at the Neuromorphic Behaving Systems group (https://www.cit-ec.de/en/nbs) Faculty of Technology and Center of Excellence Cognitive Interaction Technology at Bielefeld University. You can find details here: http://uni-bielefeld.de/Universitaet/Aktuelles/Stellenausschreibungen/Anzei… Best regards, Elisabetta Chicca -- Prof. Dr. Elisabetta Chicca CITEC - Bielefeld University Inspiration 1 33619 Bielefeld - Germany Tel.: +49 521 106-12043 Fax : +49 521 106-12348

1 0

Master 2 internship
by Bruno Cessac Dec. 4, 2017

Dec. 4, 2017

Decoding cortical activity evoked by artificial retinal implants The NeOpTo team (Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone, Marseille, France) and the Biovision Team (Inria, Sophia Antipolis, France) propose a joint Master 2 internship, entitled "Decoding cortical activity evoked by artificial retinal implants" from March 2018 to August 2018. The details of the internship can be found here https://team.inria.fr/biovision/files/2017/11/StageINT.pdf To apply, please send us a CV, a letter of application outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project, a transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained. Dr Bruno Cessac, Research Director at INRIA, Head of the BioVision team -INRIA 2004 Route des Lucioles-BP93 FR-06902 Sophia Antipolis Cedex

1 0

PhD position at the University of Exeter
by Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira Dec. 2, 2017

Dec. 2, 2017

Mathematical Modelling of Event-Related Potentials in Semantic Representation and Memory - Mathematics - EPSRC DTP funded PhD Studentship Ref: 2891 About the award This project is one of a number funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/>) Doctoral Training Partnership to commence in September 2018. This project is in direct competition with others for funding; the projects which receive the best applicants will be awarded the funding. The studentships will provide funding for a stipend which is currently £14,553 per annum for 2017-2018. It will provide research costs and UK/EU tuition fees at Research Council UK rates for 42 months (3.5 years) for full-time students, pro rata for part-time students. Please note that of the total number of projects within the competition, up to 15 studentships will be filled. Supervisors Professor Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova<http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298> Location Streatham Campus, Exeter Project Description N400 is an event-related potential (ERP) component that tap into semantic representation and memory and is an important markers of cognitive function, hence valuable clinical tools for quantifying integrity of the semantic system in populations with semantic comprehension deficit including stroke survivors, patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or focal seizure disorders. Yet the neural origin of this component is largely unknown, which limits robustness of its measurement and clinical applicability. This project investigates the origin of N400, i.e., whether it emerges as a result of phase alignment in the ongoing oscillatory activity or as a result of an evoked neural activity. In the first stage of the project, the student will explore the neural dynamics of N400 by applying model-based data analysis and feature extraction to already collected in the second supervisor’s lab in Bristol human scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) data from healthy younger and older people responding to meaningful stimuli such as words, sentences or pictures of objects. This analysis will inform data-driven generative model(s) parameterization. In the second stage, the network models developed in stage 1 will be perturbed to identify the parameters (features) for conditions such as stroke and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The final stage of the project will aim to link the event-related response with the underlying induced and evoked activity and to further investigate this activity using learning in the model space approach. There is a potential to reveal therapeutic targets for stroke and TBI. Entry Requirements You should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 Honours degree, or equivalent, in applied mathematics, computer science, physics or engineering. Experience in biomedical engineering or experimental psychology is desirable. The majority of the studentships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in the UK and are classed as UK/EU for tuition fee purposes. If you have not resided in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the studentship, you are not eligible for a maintenance allowance so you would need an alternative source of funding for living costs. To be eligible for fees-only funding you must be ordinarily resident in a member state of the EU. For information on EPSRC residency criteria click here<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/>. Applicants who are classed as International for tuition fee purposes are NOT eligible for funding. International students interested in studying at the University of Exeter should search our funding database<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/money/fundingsearch/> for alternative options. Summary Application deadline: 10th January 2018 Value: 3.5 year studentship: UK/EU tuition fees and an annual maintenance allowance at current Research Council rate. Current rate of £14,553 per year. Duration of award: per year Contact: Doctoral College pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk> How to apply Apply now You will be required to upload the following documents: • CV • Letter of application outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project. • Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained. This should be an interim transcript if you are still studying. • If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your current proficiency in English. For further details of the University’s English language requirements please see http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/english/. The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Wednesday 10 January 2018. Interviews will be held at the University of Exeter in late February 2018. If you have any general enquiries about the application process please email: pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk>. Project-specific queries should be directed to the supervisor. ________________________________ Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova Professor of Mathematics for Healthcare Department of Mathematics & Living Systems Institute, T02.17 University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK email: k.tsaneva-atanasova(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:k.tsaneva-atanasova@exeter.ac.uk> tel: +44 (0) 1392 723615 web: http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298

1 0

PhD position at the University of Exeter
by Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira Dec. 2, 2017

Dec. 2, 2017

Developing Gaze Training for Skilled Upper-Limb Prosthetic Use - Mathematics - EPSRC DTP funded PhD Studentship Ref: 2892 About the award This project is one of a number funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/>) Doctoral Training Partnership to commence in September 2018. This project is in direct competition with others for funding; the projects which receive the best applicants will be awarded the funding. The studentships will provide funding for a stipend which is currently £14,553 per annum for 2017-2018. It will provide research costs and UK/EU tuition fees at Research Council UK rates for 42 months (3.5 years) for full-time students, pro rata for part-time students. Please note that of the total number of projects within the competition, up to 15 studentships will be filled. Supervisors Professor Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova<http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298> Dr Gavin Buckingham<http://sshs.exeter.ac.uk/staff/index.php?web_id=Gavin_Buckingham> Dr Sam Vine<http://sshs.exeter.ac.uk/staff/index.php?web_id=Samuel_Vine> Professor Mark Wilson<http://sshs.exeter.ac.uk/staff/index.php?web_id=Mark_Wilson> Location Streatham Campus, Exeter Project Description Learning to use a prosthetic limb is inherently difficult and requires a huge amount of concentration. Like learning how to wield a new tool for the first time, amputees need to acquire the confidence and dexterity required for skilled action. In order to produce accurate goal-directed movements the motor system requires accurate and timely visual information making the timing and location of the person’s gaze, with relation to the movement of their limbs, critical for skilled behaviour. There is, however, no structured training protocol for use with prosthetic hands. We aim to develop a novel gaze training regime to facilitate the use of a prosthetic hand to skilfully interact with objects. In the first phase of the project, the student will undertake an observational study to determine what factors lead some individuals to become skilled with a prosthesis faster than others. We will test large numbers of intact (i.e., without amputation) participants learning to use a state-of-the-art myoelectric prosthetic arm simulator, which is controlled by muscle feedback but ergonomically designed to fit over the wrist of an intact hand. Participants will move objects of different of sizes and weights from one location to another with a range of precision requirements and in the presence of a range of obstacles. Over multiple sessions we will measure hand and object kinematics, fingertip forces, and eye path with a head-mounted eye tracker. We will then develop a data-driven mathematical model of the eye tracking and biomechanical performance data. Statistical analysis of the patterns of eye movement will provide new insights into the ‘signature’ of good performance using the prosthetic arm. The second phase will use the data from Project 1 to develop a training protocol that will adopt the ‘expert signatures’ from Phase 1 as a prototype for a trainee to follow. We will focus predominantly on the signature of expertise derived from the gaze behaviour measures and implement a gaze training protocol. We will then test the efficacy of this novel training regime with new set of intact participants using the prosthetic simulator, tracking their performance in comparison to individuals who will receive a sham training protocol. In the final phase of the project, the gaze training protocol will be used in a sample of upper-limb-amputees as they learn how to use their new prosthesis. As this stage of the project will not be limited to myoelectric prosthetic users, this will also allow us to test the generalizability of our training protocol. Entry Requirements You should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 Honours degree, or equivalent, in applied mathematics, computer science, physics or engineering. Experience in biomedical engineering or robotics is desirable. The majority of the studentships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in the UK and are classed as UK/EU for tuition fee purposes. If you have not resided in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the studentship, you are not eligible for a maintenance allowance so you would need an alternative source of funding for living costs. To be eligible for fees-only funding you must be ordinarily resident in a member state of the EU. For information on EPSRC residency criteria click here<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/>. Applicants who are classed as International for tuition fee purposes are NOT eligible for funding. International students interested in studying at the University of Exeter should search our funding database<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/money/fundingsearch/> for alternative options. Summary Application deadline: 10th January 2018 Value: 3.5 year studentship: UK/EU tuition fees and an annual maintenance allowance at current Research Council rate. Current rate of £14,553 per year. Duration of award: per year Contact: Doctoral College pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk> How to apply Apply now You will be required to upload the following documents: • CV • Letter of application outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project. • Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained. This should be an interim transcript if you are still studying. • If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your current proficiency in English. For further details of the University’s English language requirements please see http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/english/. The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Wednesday 10 January 2018. Interviews will be held at the University of Exeter in late February 2018. If you have any general enquiries about the application process please email: pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk>. Project-specific queries should be directed to the supervisor. ________________________________ Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova Professor of Mathematics for Healthcare Department of Mathematics & Living Systems Institute, T02.17 University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK email: k.tsaneva-atanasova(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:k.tsaneva-atanasova@exeter.ac.uk> tel: +44 (0) 1392 723615 web: http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298

1 0

PhD position at the University of Exeter
by Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira Dec. 2, 2017

Dec. 2, 2017

Understanding Emergent Complex Noisy Patterns in Biological Cells - Mathematics - EPSRC DTP funded PhD Studentship Ref: 2890 About the award This project is one of a number funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/>) Doctoral Training Partnership to commence in September 2018. This project is in direct competition with others for funding; the projects which receive the best applicants will be awarded the funding. The studentships will provide funding for a stipend which is currently £14,553 per annum for 2017-2018. It will provide research costs and UK/EU tuition fees at Research Council UK rates for 42 months (3.5 years) for full-time students, pro rata for part-time students. Please note that of the total number of projects within the competition, up to 15 studentships will be filled. Supervisors Associate Professor Jan Sieber<http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/js543> Prof Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova<https://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298> Dr Joel Tabak<http://medicine.exeter.ac.uk/people/profile/index.php?web_id=Joel_Tabak-Szn…> Location Streatham Campus, Exeter Project Description One of the most fascinating phenomena in nature is that small random disturbances can create systematic large-scale patterns of motion. Mathematically, this is described by the theory of nonlinear dynamics. One essential process governed by this theory is electrical signalling in animal and plant cells. Biological cells communicate with periodic or more complex patterns of electrical signals that underlie thinking, hormone release or muscle movement. These patterns are extremely sensitive to various types of noise present in cells such as rapid fluctuations and slow random drift. A general mathematical question is how precisely the different types of small noise perturbations influence the emergent patterns in nonlinear systems. Applications of the insights gained from mathematical analysis to understanding and controlling living cells would allow us to inform novel therapies for hormonal or neural disorders such as chronic stress response or essential tremor for example. Traditionally, mathematical modelling of cells has been applied to idealised, noise-free models. This funded PhD studentship will investigate how small noise drives and controls periodic and non-periodic patterns in general, and specifically in excitable cell models and experiments. The student will design a method to remove noise from emergent electrical patterns, using techniques from dynamical systems theory and feedback control theory. Joel Tabak (one of the project supervisors) has developed a proof of concept methodology for periodic patterns that is similar to what is used in noise-cancelling headphones, but uses concepts from dynamical systems to determine the perturbing noise. Being able to remove noise will allow us to compare the patterns in noisy and noise-free conditions. This will help scientists understanding how noise controls electrical patterns in many types of electrically active cells. The student will design further new methods for removing noise in mathematical models (ordinary differential equations) of electrically active cells. The PhD studentship will benefit from close collaboration with Joel Tabak’s neuroscience laboratory. This laboratory is able to perform experiments with live cells in real time using electrical signals in dynamic clamp experiments. Thus, the student will have the opportunity to immediately test how their methods perform in a real biological system, and use the experimental results as a guide to refine their methodology. By interacting with experimental researchers, the student will also gain important experience in working within a multidisciplinary scientific team. Depending on the student’s interests and progress during the PhD studentship, there will also be the opportunity to learn electrophysiology in order to record the electrical activity from live cells. This project would suit a student keen to 1) learn and apply new maths concepts (nonlinear dynamical systems, multi-scale analysis, stochastic processes); 2) interact with people from different scientific fields; and 3) present their results at national and international conferences. Entry Requirements You should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 Honours degree, or equivalent, in mathematics or a natural sciences or engineering programme with a strong quantitative component. Experience in nonlinear dynamics, mathematical biology or probability, and some programming experience are desirable. The majority of the studentships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in the UK and are classed as UK/EU for tuition fee purposes. If you have not resided in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the studentship, you are not eligible for a maintenance allowance so you would need an alternative source of funding for living costs. To be eligible for fees-only funding you must be ordinarily resident in a member state of the EU. For information on EPSRC residency criteria click here<https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/>. Applicants who are classed as International for tuition fee purposes are NOT eligible for funding. International students interested in studying at the University of Exeter should search our funding database<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/money/fundingsearch/> for alternative options. Summary Application deadline: 10th January 2018 Value: 3.5 year studentship: UK/EU tuition fees and an annual maintenance allowance at current Research Council rate. Current rate of £14,553 per year. Duration of award: per year Contact: Doctoral College pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk> How to apply Apply now You will be required to upload the following documents: • CV • Letter of application outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project. • Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained. This should be an interim transcript if you are still studying. • If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your current proficiency in English. For further details of the University’s English language requirements please see http://www.exeter.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/english/. The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Wednesday 10 January 2018. Interviews will be held at the University of Exeter in late February 2018. If you have any general enquiries about the application process please email: pgrenquiries(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:pgrenquiries@exeter.ac.uk>. Project-specific queries should be directed to the supervisor. ________________________________ Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova Professor of Mathematics for Healthcare Department of Mathematics & Living Systems Institute, T02.17 University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK email: k.tsaneva-atanasova(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:k.tsaneva-atanasova@exeter.ac.uk> tel: +44 (0) 1392 723615 web: http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298 ________________________________ Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova Professor of Mathematics for Healthcare Department of Mathematics & Living Systems Institute, T02.17 University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK email: k.tsaneva-atanasova(a)exeter.ac.uk<mailto:k.tsaneva-atanasova@exeter.ac.uk> tel: +44 (0) 1392 723615 web: http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/kt298

1 0

NeuroMorpho.Org v7.3 released November 28th, 2017
by NeuroMorpho Administrator Dec. 2, 2017

Dec. 2, 2017

Dear colleagues, We’re pleased to announce the November 28, 2017 release of Version 7.3 of NeuroMorpho.Org<http://neuromorpho.org/>, adding 9987 reconstructions from 96 new datasets. The repository now provides access to 80,012 cells and passed 8 million downloads in 166 countries. Please visit the What’s new page<http://neuromorpho.org/WIN.jsp> for details on the added data and metadata. The literature coverage was also updated to include publications through October 2017, with more than 1000 articles referencing data in this resource. We are continuously grateful to all data contributors<http://neuromorpho.org/acknowl.jsp#DC> who freely share their hard-won tracings with the community. We appreciate any and all feedback and comments. Our apologies if you receive multiple versions of this message through cross-listing. Sincerely, The NeuroMorpho.Org team<http://neuromorpho.org/acknowl.jsp#NMO> ---------------- Giorgio Ascoli<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/cn3/ascoli>, PhD University Professor Bioengineering Department<http://bioengineering.gmu.edu/>, Volgenau School of Engineering<http://volgenau.gmu.edu/> Neuroscience Program<http://neuroscience.gmu.edu/>, Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/> Director, Center for Neural Informatics, Structures, & Plasticity<http://krasnow1.gmu.edu/cn3> MS2A1 - George Mason University<http://gmu.edu/>, Fairfax, VA 22030-4444 Ph. +1(703)993-4383/+1(703)673-8894 Author of “Trees of the Brain, Roots of the Mind<http://www.amazon.com/Trees-Brain-Roots-Giorgio-Ascoli/dp/0262028980/>” (MIT Press, 2015<http://mitpress.mit.edu/books/trees-brain-roots-mind>) Founding Editor-in-Chief, Neuroinformatics<http://link.springer.com/journal/12021>

1 0

BECNC 2018 Conference
by Narges Chinichian Dec. 2, 2017

Dec. 2, 2017

[Apologies for cross posting] Dear All I'm glad to announce that the "Brain Engineering & Computational Neuroscience Conference BECNC 2018" will be held on Jan 31 to Feb 2 in Tehran, Iran. Here is the link to register: https://becnc.ir/?page_id=452 <https://becnc.ir/?page_id=452> Keynote Speakers: Prof. Tipu Aziz (Oxford Univ., UK) Prof. Kenneth Miller (Columbia Univ., USA) Prof. Reza Shadmehr (JHU, USA) Prof. Pieter Roelfsema (NIN, Netherlands) Prof. Alexandre Pouget (Univ of Geneva) Prof. Susana Martinez-Conde (SUNY, USA) Prof. Susan J. Sara (College de France) Prof. Winrich Freiwald (Rockefeller Univ, USA) Prof. Gregor Rainer (Univ. of Fribourg, Switzerland) Prof. James Bisley (UCLA, USA) Prof. Qasim Zaidi (SUNY, USA) Prof. Yasser Roudi (NTNU, Norway) Prof. Valentin Dragoi (UT, USA) Prof. Frank Scharnowski (Univ. of Zürich, Switzerland) Prof. Alexander Thiele (Newcastle Univ., UK) Dr. Kamran Diba (Univ. of Michigan, USA) Dr. Ali Borji (UCF, USA) Dr. Qolamreza (Ray) Razlighi (Columbia Univ., USA) Dr. Morteza M. Goudarzi (MIT, USA) Dr. Koorosh Mirpour (UCLA, USA) Dr. Athena Akrami (Princeton Univ., USA) Dr. Yousef Salimpour (JHU, USA) Dr. Abbas Khani (Univ. of Geneva, Switzerland) see the complete list here: <http://goog_1578179254/> https://becnc.ir/?page_id=91 Dates & Deadlines: Abstract and full paper submission opening: November 4, 2017 Abstract submission deadline: January 10, 2018 Full paper submission deadline: January 11, 2018 Conference registration deadline: January 23, 2018 Late conference registration deadline (limited number): January 30, 2018 Main event: January 31 – February 2, 2018 There are also a workshop and a one-day course at the same time which you may like to attend. Find the details here: https://becnc.ir/?page_id=488 For more information, visit: https://becnc.ir/ Regards

1 0

Data Engineer at Columbia University's Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute
by Rajendra Bose Dec. 1, 2017

Dec. 1, 2017

Columbia University's Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute (Zuckerman Institute) is seeking a highly motivated individual with strong software engineering skills, some familiarity with machine learning, and an interest in neuroscience and teaching to facilitate data analysis and sharing across 10 laboratories <https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/columbia-s-zuckerman-institute-awar…> investigating the computational and circuit mechanisms underlying motor control. For more information and to apply, see: https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/data-engineer Thank you— Raj Rajendra Bose, Ph.D. Director, Research Computing Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute Columbia University Tel: 212-851-2918 http://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu

1 0