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Call for Registration: Computational Neurology 2017. Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
by roman bauer Nov. 19, 2016

Nov. 19, 2016

Dear all, We are pleased to announce that the registration for the Computational Neurology Conference in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK has opened. *Please register here:* https://conferences.ncl.ac.uk/compneurology/registration/ - Registration is free and includes lunch/coffee breaks on both days - Speakers are not required to register *Registration deadline:* February 5, 2017 *List of confirmed speakers:* - Javier Escudero - Edinburgh - Marc Goodfellow - Exeter - Andrew Jackson - Newcastle - Viktor Jirsa – Marseille - Marcus Kaiser - Newcastle - Dimitri Kullmann – University College London - Marco Manca - CERN - Florian Mormann - Bonn - Matthew Nolan – Edinburgh - Gregory Scott - Imperial College London - Evelyne Sernagor - Newcastle - Peter Uhlhaas – Glasgow Additionally, there will be multiple mini-talks from selected poster presenters. More information on the conference can be found at the dedicated website: https://conferences.ncl.ac.uk/compneurology/ Thanks and we look forward to seeing you in Newcastle upon Tyne! On behalf of the organizers: Roman Bauer, Anupam Hazra, Luis Peraza Rodriguez, Peter Taylor, Yujiang Wang -- Roman Bauer, Ph.D. MRC Research Fellow Institute of Neuroscience Newcastle University Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK tel: +44 (0) 191 208 8933 <+44%20(0)%20191%20208%208933>

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Funded PhD places at Royal Holloway
by Durant, Szonya Nov. 18, 2016

Nov. 18, 2016

Applications are open for funded PhD places starting 2017 in the Dept. of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London. Further details: https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/psychology/prospectivestudents/postgraduate… The following projects may be of interest to the readers of this list (linked the project descriptions below), please contact the primary supervisor for more information. ? The perceived duration of actions (Primary Supervisor: Dr Durant<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/szonya-durant_64105598-7…>; Second Supervisor: Dr Lingnau<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/angelika-lingnau%283be38…>) ? Semantic information transfer from audition to vision (Primary Supervisor: Dr Vetter<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/petra-vetter(cdfd308c-1e…>; Second Supervisor: Dr Auer) ? Perceptual and physiological correlates of aesthetic preferences (Primary supervisor: Prof Zanker<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/johannes-zanker_350450c5…>; Second Supervisor: Dr Durant<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/szonya-durant_64105598-7…>) ? The neuroscience of facial attractiveness choices (Primary Supervisor: Dr Furl<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/nicholas-furl(ea2a352b-6…> ; Second Supervisor: Dr McKay<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/ryan-mckay_cda72457-6d2a…>) ? Detection of emotion and trustworthiness across the lifespan (Primary Supervisor : Dr Watling<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/dawn-watling_70194d88-af…>; Second Supervisor : Dr Durant<https://pure.royalholloway.ac.uk/portal/en/persons/szonya-durant_64105598-7…> ) Szonya Durant, RHUL Angelika Lingnau, RHUL The perceived duration of actions Project Summary The perception of duration is often cited as being crucial for action. Overlapping neural areas have been found to be involved in motor planning and duration perception. However, dissociations have been found in time judgement for action and perception. Our ability to judge the duration of our own and others' actions has been little investigated. Additionally, predictability affects duration perception and neural signal change - do expected actions differ from unexpected ones in their perceived duration? This project combines psychophysical, EEG and fMRI techniques, providing the PhD candidate with a broad training in neuroscientific techniques. The behavioural experiments compare the perceived duration of action to matched non-action visual stimuli. We test if judging our own actions cued by a visual stimulus improves accuracy or shifts means compared to action or non-action visual stimuli alone. We will also manipulate predictability of actions, both by probability of occurrence or expectation in terms of object affordance. The fMRI studies will contrast judging the duration of another person's actions versus one's own as well as non-action visual stimuli. We will examine which brain areas are modulated by perceived duration and by predictability. Moreover, we will use MVPA to examine predictability effects on the ability to categorize actions. The EEG experiments will use the visual mismatch negativity signal as a measure of what is considered a predictable action when attention is not directed towards it and relate this to the psychophysical results. Petra Vetter, RHUL Tibor Auer, RHUL Semantic information transfer from audition to vision Project summary: Our brain integrates a multitude of sensory information into one coherent percept so that we can interact with the world. Previous research typically focussed on how multisensory information is integrated across space and time, but so far little research has attempted to determine the semantic meaning of the communicated information across the senses. However, knowing the semantic content of cross-modally transmitted information is crucial to optimise multimedia environments and sensory substitution devices for the blind. The goal of this project is to characterise the semantic information content that is transferred from audition to vision in the human brain, and to identify the neural pathways of this information transfer. The predominant methods will be functional MRI in combination with multivariate brain decoding techniques and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). The project will address two main questions: 1. Which semantic categories of auditory information are distinguished in visual cortex and to which level of abstraction? Here we will decode natural sounds of several semantic categories (e.g. animals versus humans, female versus male, tools versus instruments) from fMRI activity patterns in early visual cortex in the absence of visual stimulation. 2. Where in the brain are these semantic categories distinguished? Here the brain pathways of audio-visual information transfer will be identified by connectivity and whole brain decoding analyses, as well as by stimulating multi-sensory brain areas with TMS prior to MRI scanning. The latter allows to identify the brain areas that are causally involved in mediating semantic information transfer from audition to vision. Johannes Zanker, RHUL Szonya Durant, RHUL Perceptual and physiological correlates of aesthetic preferences Project summary Arts history has plenty of 'theoretical' concepts on offer to explain what human spectators regard as beautiful (Gombrich 1977), which often closer to believe systems than being based on evidence. With the advent of psychophysics, investigating the relationship between the physical world and its mental representation, aesthetic judgement became accessible to empirical study (Fechner 1860), soon to be aided by some physiological and behavioural methods (Yarbus 1967, Berlyne 1971). The proposed project is planned to extend previous work that established (a) quantitative methods to measure aesthetic attributes - such as complexity, regularity, liking - that were applied to both to synthetic stimuli and samples of artwork, and (b) an analysis method for preferential eye movements for the same stimulus material, and complement it with (c) recordings of cortical activity recorded with the EEG system. The combination of methods offers the opportunity to directly link the perceptual tasks, recordings of eye movement signals (which are also picked up by the EEG system) and neural responses and align preference data sets from a single experiment. The goal of this project is to explore whether features such as style aspect, particular composition schemes, geometric properties such as perspective or symmetry, and mathematical properties such as the complexity of a piece of art, are reflected in the activity of the early visual system, and to what extent such cortical activity in the early visual system can contribute to for what participants perceive as pleasing, and describe as 'beautiful'. Dawn Watling, RHUL Szonya Durant, RHUL Detection of emotion and trustworthiness across the lifespan Project Summary Emotion recognition is a key social skill which we use on a daily basis to navigate successfully through social interactions. Individuals use facial expressions to infer and make judgments about the attitude and/or feelings of another (Cunningham & Odom, 1986) and the judgments that one makes are often used to guide future behaviour within the interaction (Gao & Maurer, 2009). Children recognize from 6-years-old that facial expressions of emotion do not always match true feelings. This PhD will address: first, what factors influence one's ability to detect a genuine (or faked) facial expression of emotion, how does this relate to judgements of trustworthiness; second, are their age related changes in detection and judgements across the lifespan? Throughout this PhD a series of studies will be designed to address these questions using static and dynamic images, and live interactions. The proposed cross-sectional design will include participant groups from early childhood to late adulthood. Participants will visit the Oculomotor lab and be asked to make judgements on genuineness of emotional expressions and how trustworthy an individual is. Participants' eye movements and gaze fixations will be recorded and analysed in terms of scan paths, gaze duration at targeted areas, and related to the perceived genuineness of the individual. There are important implications for the understanding of how a child may respond to an approaching strangers or how an elderly individual may respond to a stranger who makes a request (e.g., for money, to enter their home). Nicholas Furl, RHUL Ryan McKay, RHUL Bruno Averbeck, NIMH/NIH Davide Rivolta, University of East London The neuroscience of facial attractiveness choices Project summary Users of modern dating applications (e.g., Tinder) face a classic decision problem. This "best choice" or "marriage" problem requires participants to view a series of options one at a time (e.g., a series of used cars) and to decide whether to accept or reject each option. A participant's task is to find a high-ranking option in the series (e.g., a car with low mileage), with the restriction that declined options cannot be returned to. The problem is known as the "marriage" problem after the decision process adopted by astronomer Johannes Kepler when searching for a wife; after considering several candidates, Kepler returned to a previous candidate and was duly rejected. Our research team has shown that humans confronted by a similar mate choice task make suboptimal decisions, compared to computational "ideal observer" models. Further, parietal cortex activity may contribute to these decisions. Our Ph.D. project will use brain imaging to assess how suboptimal searches for the most attractive face arise from interactions between brain activity involved in decision making (parietal cortex) and social perception. Our student will also test whether brain stimulation (e.g., to parietal cortex) changes participants' ability to "wait for the right person". Our Ph.D. student will lead a project with potential for broad scientific and social impact and will receive training in brain imaging, brain stimulation and behavioural and computational methods. Szonya Durant Department of Psychology Royal Holloway, University of London Egham TW20 0EX 01784 276522

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Workshop on Tactile coding and neuroprostheses - Pontedera (Pisa), Italy - Dec 1-2 2016
by Alberto Mazzoni Nov. 18, 2016

Nov. 18, 2016

Workshop announcement (apologies for cross-postings) *Workshop on Tactile coding and neuroprostheses * *December 1-2 2016, Pontedera (Pisa) - Italy * *@ The Biorobotics Institute of the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna* *ABSTRACT* Neurophysiology of touch and development of artificial tactile sensation are two fields of research with an ever-increasing interchange. Advanced neuroprostheses are progressively focusing on reproducing the naturalistic processing of tactile sensations in the peripheral and central nervous system. In turn, biomimetic tactile sensors and behavioral studies on patient implanted with tactile neuroprostheses can contribute to the understanding of tactile coding. This workshop aims at fostering the integration of neurophysiological, computational and robotics studies on touch with contribution of leading experts in the different fields. *WORKSHOP SESSIONS* *Neurophysiology of touch *- keynote speaker *Roland S Johannson* (Umea University, Sweden) *Touch perception and tactile coding *- keynote speaker *Vincent Hayward* (Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et de Robotique, Paris, France) *Touch restoration, neuroprostheses and biorobotics *- keynote speaker *Sliman Bensmaia* (University of Chicago, USA) *DETAILS* The workshop takes place on the premises of The Biorobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, viale Rinaldo Piaggio 24, in Pontedera (15 mins by train from Pisa, 50 mins from Florence). The event is free, but registration is compulsory. *To register, please write to local organizer Alberto Mazzoni (a.mazzoni(a)sssup.it <a.mazzoni(a)sssup.it>)* *ORGANIZERS* Silvestro Micera (Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy / École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland) Henrik Jorntell (Lund University, Sweden) Calogero Oddo (Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy) Alberto Mazzoni (Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy) *ACKNOWLEDGMENTS* Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Directorate General for Country Promotion (Economy, Culture and Science)—Unit for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, via the Italy-Sweden bilateral research project on "Brain network mechanisms for integration of natural tactile input patterns", NEBIAS European project (EUFP7-ICT-611687) and Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna fund IEXERC14AM.

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Hiring Interviews at NIPS Barcelona for NEURAL DATA ANALYTICS - Post Docs, Staff Scientists, & Electrical Engineers
by Platt, Jo Ann Nov. 17, 2016

Nov. 17, 2016

Bioelectronic Medicine is the new frontier of medicine - challenging and changing the way we diagnose, manage, and treat disease. Today's discoveries and devices are successfully replacing drugs. We aim to treat bleeding, cancer, diabetes, lupus, obesity, paralysis, rheumatoid arthritis, sepsis, and many other diseases and conditions. The Center for Bioelectronic Medicine at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is conducting interviews at Neural Information Processing Systems (NIPS) for multiple positions in the fields of machine learning, neural engineering, neural decoding and data analytics, microfabrication, bioelectronics and biosensing, and neurophysiology. Each successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to determine the nature of neural control over molecular, cellular and organ functions of the body, the parts of the brain that regulate those nerves, and the signals that the brain receives to monitor cell and organ function. The candidates will work on projects involving development of novel signal processing and machine learning methods to gain insights into decoding and encoding mechanisms of the brain and peripheral nerves, reinforcement learning approaches used to optimize neural stimulation, techniques to directionally transmit or receive neural signals and numerical and biophysical modeling of neural circuits. Submit your resume to japlatt(a)northwell.edu<mailto:japlatt@northwell.edu> for consideration and to arrange an onsite interview. Jo Ann Platt The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Cell: (415) 265-0441<tel:(415)%20265-0441> 350 Community Drive<x-apple-data-detectors://2/1> Manhasset, NY 11030<x-apple-data-detectors://2/1> The information contained in this electronic e-mail transmission and any attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom or to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this communication is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this communication and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by telephone and electronic mail, and delete the original communication and any attachment from any computer, server or other electronic recording or storage device or medium. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney-client, physician-patient or other privilege.

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[ECSQARU 2017] First Call for Papers
by Alessandro Antonucci Nov. 17, 2016

Nov. 17, 2016

The Fourteenth European Conference on Symbolic and Quantitative Approaches to Reasoning with Uncertainty FIRST CALL FOR PAPERS http://ecsqaru.idsia.ch The biennial ECSQARU conferences constitute a major forum for advances in the theory and practice of reasoning under uncertainty. Contributions come from researchers interested in advancing the scientific knowledge and from practitioners using uncertainty techniques in real-world applications. The scope of the ECSQARU conferences encompasses fundamental issues, representation, inference, learning, and decision making in qualitative and numeric uncertainty paradigms. Previous ECSQARU events have been held in Marseille (1991), Granada (1993), Fribourg (1995), Bonn (1997), London (1999), Toulouse (2001), Aalborg (2003), Barcelona (2005), Hammamet (2007), Verona (2009), Belfast (2011), Utrecht (2013), and Compiègne (2015). ECSQARU 2017 will be co-located with ISIPTA '17, the Tenth International Symposium on Imprecise Probability: Theories and Applications. The joint event will be held in Lugano (Switzerland), on July 10-14, 2017. ::: SCOPE ::: For ECSQARU 2017 we invite submissions of conference papers on topics which include but are not limited to: - Algorithms for uncertain inference - Applications of uncertain systems - Argumentation systems - Automated planning and acting under uncertainty - Belief functions - Belief revision & merging - Classification & clustering - Decision theory & decision graphs - Default reasoning - Description logics with uncertainty - Foundations of reasoning under uncertainty - Fuzzy sets & fuzzy logic - Game theory - Imprecise probabilities - Inconsistency handling - Information fusion - Learning for uncertainty formalisms - Logics for reasoning under uncertainty - Markov decision processes - Possibility theory & possibilistic logic - Preferences - Probabilistic graphical models - Probabilistic logics - Qualitative uncertainty models - Rough sets - Uncertainty & data ::: INVITED SPEAKERS ::: We are delighted of having the following invited speakers: - Leila Amgoud (IRIT, France) - Alessio Benavoli (IDSIA, Switzerland) - Jim Berger (Duke University, USA) - Didier Dubois (IRIT, France) - Eyke Hüllermeier (Paderborn University, Germany) ::: PROCEEDINGS AND SUBMISSIONS ::: In accordance with the previous conferences, the proceedings of ECSQARU 2015 will be published in the Springer Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence series. Authors are requested to prepare their conference papers in the LNCS/LNAI format. Submitted papers will be evaluated by peer reviews based on originality, significance, technical soundness, and clarity of exposition. Authors of accepted papers are expected to attend the conference to present their work. The instructions for submission and the author kit are available here: http://ecsqaru.idsia.ch/submissions-ecsqaru/ ::: IMPORTANT DATES ::: - Tuesday, February 21, 2017: Paper submission deadline - Tuesday, April 18, 2017: Author notification - Friday, April 28, 2017: Camera-ready copy due ::: IJAR SPECIAL ISSUE ::: Authors of selected papers will be invited to submit an extended version of their work to a special issue of the International Journal of Approximate Reasoning (IJAR, Elsevier). ::: SPRINGER YOUNG RESEARCHER AWARD ::: We also invite applications for the Springer Young Researcher Award. The prize, granted by Springer, will be awarded to one young researcher for excellent research in fields related to the ECSQARU scope. The award is open to Master students, PhD students and young post-doc researchers who have received their PhD in 2016 (or 2017). Applicants should have submitted a paper (not necessarily as first authors) to ECSQARU 2017. Applications should be received by the paper submission deadline (February 21, 2017). _________________________________ Alessandro Antonucci IDSIA Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence Via Cantonale (Galleria 2) CH-6928, Manno-Lugano, CH mail: alessandro(a)idsia.ch skype: alessandro.antonucci tel: +41 916108515 web: www.idsia.ch/~alessandro _________________________________

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[ICANN 2017] Preliminary announcement, 26th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks, Alghero, Sardinia, Italy
by ENNS Secretary Nov. 17, 2016

Nov. 17, 2016

Preliminary Announcement [Apologies for cross-postings] =========================================================== www.icann2017.org <http://www.icann2017.org/> ICANN 2017 26th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks Alghero/Sassari, Sardinia, Italy 11th - 15th September 2017 =========================================================== The International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks (ICANN) is the annual flagship conference of the European Neural Network Society (ENNS). In 2017, the 26th ICANN will be organised from the 11th to the 15th of September 2017 in Alghero/Sassari, Sardinia, Italy. Conference proceedings will be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series. IMPORTANT DATES Special session / workshop proposals: 15 January 2017 Proposals for competitions and tutorials: 31 January 2017 Submission of demonstration proposals: 1 March 2017 Submission of abstracts and papers: 19 March 2017 Notification of acceptance: 30 April 2017 Camera-ready paper and registration: 15 May 2017 Conference dates: 11 - 15 September 2017 CONFERENCE TOPICS ICANN 2017 will feature the main tracks Brain Inspired computing and Machine Learning research, with strong cross-disciplinary interactions and applications. All research fields dealing with Neural Networks will be present at the conference. A non-exhaustive list of topics includes: • Brain Inspired Computing: Cognitive models, Computational Neuroscience, Self-organization, Reinforcement Learning, Neural Control and Planning, Hybrid Neural-Symbolic Architectures, Neural Dynamics, Recurrent Networks, Deep Learning. • Machine Learning: Neural Network Theory, Neural Network Models, Graphical Models, Bayesian Networks, Kernel Methods, Generative Models, Information Theoretic Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Relational Learning, Dynamical Models. • Neural Applications for: Intelligent Robotics, Neurorobotics, Language Processing, Image Processing, Sensor Fusion, Pattern Recognition, Data Mining, Neural Agents, Brain-Computer Interaction, Neural Hardware, Evolutionary Neural Networks. CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES - To bring together researchers from two worlds: Information Sciences and Neurosciences - To keep a wide scope, ranging from Machine Learning Algorithms to models of real nervous systems - To facilitate discussions and interactions in the effort towards developing more intelligent computational systems and increasing our understanding of neural and cognitive processes in the brain. - To help researchers to meet, mingle and network with colleagues from all over the world. - To be the meeting point between research and business. - To be a global interdisciplinary meeting encompassing Machine Learning and Neural Computation. BENEFITS OF ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE - A solid cutting-edge scientific programme including talks from the world experts in the field of artificial neural networks. - A conference schedule tailored to encourage interaction between the attendees, with time for networking and discussion. - The publication of all accepted contributions in the peer-reviewed book of conference proceedings, in the Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series. - The opportunity to vote and to be considered for the best paper awards, presented during the final ceremony of ICANN. - A top-level conference in the field with a reasonable registration fee, thanks to the not-for-profit policy of the ENNS organisation. Students can apply for ENNS funded travel grants to attend. - An overly attractive conference location in the beautiful setting of the Sardinian coast, with social events to explore the area. http://www.alghero-turismo.it/en/ <http://www.alghero-turismo.it/en/> CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FEES Early registration fees have been kept particularly low for this kind of event because ENNS and ICANN aim at full implementation of the academic not-for-profit policy. Undergraduate students (Bachelor and Master level): 100 EUR PhD Students: 240 EUR Regular delegates: 290 EUR ENNS members have a reduction of 40 EUR Students can apply for ENNS funded travel grants to attend (see the conference website). CALL FOR CONTRIBUTED SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATIONS All scientific communications presented at ICANN 2017 will be reviewed and scientifically evaluated by a panel of experts. The conference will feature three categories of communications: - oral communications (15'+5') - poster communications (on permanent display and 2 hours presentation) - demonstrations Authors willing to present original contributions for any category must submit a manuscript of maximum 8 pages length that will be refereed to international standards by at least three referees. Accepted papers of contributing authors will be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series. Selected papers will be invited after the conference for a full journal paper submission. Authors willing to present a contribution for oral communications and posters without submitting a full manuscript must submit a 1-page abstract that will also be refereed by at least three referees. The abstracts will be published all together in a proceedings section without an author index. In case of program constraints the priority will be given to original contributions accompanied by a full paper submission. WORKSHOPS, SPECIAL SESSIONS, DEMONSTRATIONS, COMPETITION PROPOSALS and TUTORIALS ICANN 2017 invites proposals for workshops, special sessions, demonstrations, competitions and tutorials to be held during the conference. For more information, please refer to the website. BEST PAPER AWARDS ENNS will sponsor several best paper awards, in the Brain Inspired Computing track and in the Machine Learning research track. All awardees will be presented during the final ceremony. ORGANISATION General Chair: Alessandro E.P. Villa General Co-chairs: Alessandra Lintas, Věra Kůrková, Stefano Rovetta, Paul F.M.J. Verschure Local Co-chairs: Eugenio Lintas, Anna Mura Program and Workshop Committee: Cesare Alippi, Jérémie Cabessa, Barbara Hammer, Petia Koprinkova-Hristova, Jaako Peltonen, Antonio J. Pons, Yifat Prut, Stefano Rovetta, Igor V. Tetko, Paul F.M.J. Verschure, Alessandro E.P. Villa, Francisco Zamora-Martinéz Communications Chair: Paolo Masulli Organisation Università degli Studi di Sassari, Italy University of Lausanne, Switzerland Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Spain ENNS Secretariat, Switzerland -- Caroline Kleinheny secretary ENNS University of Lausanne Laboratoire de Neuroheuristique Internef - 137 CH - 1015 Lausanne Switzerland Tel : +41 21 692 33 88 secretary(a)e-nns.org <mailto:secretary@e-nns.org>--

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Grants for independent young scientists - Romanian Institute of Science and Technology
by R. Valentin Florian Nov. 16, 2016

Nov. 16, 2016

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[IJCNN 2017] Submission deadline is extended to Thursday, 1st December 2359 hr (UTC-8 hr)
by Teng Teck Hou Nov. 16, 2016

Nov. 16, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ################################################## CALL FOR PAPERS International Joint Conference on Neural Networks May 14-19, 2017, Anchorage, Alaska, USA http://www.ijcnn.org/ http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-papers ################################################## IJCNN is the premier international conference in the area of neural network theory, analysis, and applications. Co-sponsored by the International Neural Network Society (INNS) and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (IEEE-CIS), over the last three decades this conference and its predecessors has hosted [past, present, and future] leaders of neural network research. IJCNN 2017 will feature invited plenary talks by world-renowned speakers in the areas of neural network theory and applications, computational neuroscience, robotics, and distributed intelligence. In addition to regular technical sessions with oral and poster presentations, the conference program will include special sessions, competitions, tutorials and workshops on topics of current interest. The 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017) will be held at the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage, Alaska, USA, May 14-19, 2017. "... Only in Anchorage can you meet a moose, walk on a glacier and explore a vast, natural park all in a single day. Between mountains and an inlet, surrounded by national parks and filled with Alaska wildlife, Anchorage combines the best of Alaska in a city that has the comforts of home and the hospitality of the Last Frontier. ..." For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook (https://fb.me/ijcnn2017/) and Twitter (@ijcnn2017). ##############################Important Dates############################## * Paper Submission December 1, 2016 * Paper Decision Notification January 20, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission February 20, 2017 ########################################################################### ##########################Plenary Speakers########################## * Alex Graves, Research Scientist, Google DeepMind * Stephen Grossberg, Wang Professor of Cognitive and Neural Systems, Boston University, USA * Odest Chadwicke Jenkins, Associate Professor of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Michigan * Christof Koch, President and Chief Scientific Officer, Allen Institute for Brain Science, USA * Jose C. Principle, Distinguished Professor, University of Florida, USA * Hava Siegelmann, Program Manager, DARPA * Paul Werbos, Program Director (retired), National Science Foundation #################################################################### ##########################Accepted Special Sessions########################## 1 Advanced Data Analytics for Large-scale Complex Data Environment Jia, Wu (University of Technology Sydney); Shirui, Pan; Xiangnan, Kong; Ivor W., Tsang 2 Advances in Computational Intelligence for applied Time Series Forecasting (ACIATSF) Rodriguez Rivero (Universidad Nacional de Crdoba, Argentina), Cristian; Leonardo, Franco; Julian, Pucheta; Juarez, Gustavo 3 Artificial Neural Network Solutions in Power Plant Safety and Security Alamaniotis, Miltos (Purdue University, USA); Tambouratzis, Tatiana 4 Artificial Neural Network-Based Methodologies for Environmental Sustainability Development: Theory and Practice Souliou, Dora (National Technical University of Athens, Greece);Tambouratzis, Tatiana 5 Biologically Inspired Computational Vision Iftekharuddin, Khan (Old Dominion Univ., USA) 6 Biologically-inspired Neural Networks and Learning Systems for Robotics Luo, Chaomin (Univ. of Detroit City, USA) 7 Cognition and Development Alessandro Di Nuovo (Sheffield Hallam Univ., UK); Pierre-Yves Oudeyer; Angelo Cangelosi 8 Computational Intelligence Algorithms for Digital Audio Applications Principi, Emanuele (Universita Politecnica delle Marche, Italy); Uncini, Aurelio; Schuller, Björn; Squartini, Stefano 9 Concept Drift, Domain Adaptation & Learning in Dynamic Environments Giacomo, Boracchi (Politecnico de Milano, Italy); Robi, Polikar; Manuel, Roveri; regory Ditzler 10 Cybersecurity Analytics Catherine Huang (Intel) 11 Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery in Cyber-Physical Systems Bo, Tang (Hofstra Univ. USA); Ozawa, Seiichi; Alippi, Cerase; He, Haibo 12 Data stream mining in industry Xu, Rui (General Electric); Xu, YunWen; Yan, Weizhong 13 Deep and Reinforcement Learning (DRL) Altahhan, Abdulrahman (Coventry Univ., UK); Palade, Vasile; Razavi-Far, Roozbeh; 14 Explainability of Learning Machines Guyon, Isabelle (Universit Paris-Saclay, France); Escalante, Hugo Jair; Escalera, Sergio; Viegas, Evelyne 15 Extreme Learning Machines (ELM) Huang, Guang-Bin (Nanyang Technological Univ., Singapore); Cambria, Erik; Weizhong, Yan; Wunsch II, Donald C. 16 Incremental Machine Learning: Methods and Applications Nicoleta Rogovschi (Paris Descartes Univ., France); Seiichi Ozawa (Kobe University, Japan) 17 Intelligent Vehicle and Transportation Systems Murphey, Yi (Univ. of Michigan-Dearborn, USA); Abou-Nasr, Mahmoud; Sethi, Ishwar K; Robert, Karlsen; Ahmadi , Majid; Luo, Chaomin; Dauwels, Justin; Kocchar, Dev; 18 Interpretable Models in Machine Learning for Advanced Data Analysis Biehl, Michael (Univ. of Groningen, Netherlands); Villmann, Thomas 19 Large Datasets and Big Data Analytics: Theory, Methods, and Applications Oneto, Luca (University of Genoa, Italy); Navarin, Nicolo?; Donini, Michele; Aiolli, Fabio; Anguita Davide 20 Machine Learning for Business Analytics Sung, Chul (IBM); Higgins, Chunhui; Zhang Bo; Park, Chanjin 21 Machine Learning for Enhancing Biomedical Data Analysis Martin-Guerrero, Jose D. (Univ. of Valencia, Spain); Lisboa, Paulo J. G.; Vellido, Alfredo; Taktak, Azzam F. G.; Peterson, Leif E. 22 Machine Learning Methods Applied to Medicine Bolon-Canedo, Veronica (Univ. of A Corua, Spain); Remeseiro, Beatriz; Alonso-Betanzos, Amparo; Campilho, Aurelio 23 Machine Learning Methods applied to Vision and Robotics (MLMVR) Garcia-Rodriguez, Jose (Univ. of Alicante, Spain); Escalera, Sergio; Psarrou, Alexandra;Guyo, Isabel; Lewis, Andrew; Leitner, Juxi; Dominguez, Enrique 24 Machine Learning Techniques for Data-Driven Cyber Security Hongmei He (Cranfield Univ., UK) 25 Mind, Brain, and Cognitive Algorithms Perlovsky, Leonid (Northeastern Univ., USA); Fontanari, Jose F.; Roy, Asim; Cangelosi, Angelo; Levine, Daniel 26 Nature-Inspired Neural Network Optimization Bosman (Rakitianskaia), Anna (Univ. of Pretoria, South Africa); Engelbrecht, Andries 27 Neuro-Inspired Computing with Nanoelectronic Devices Saibal Mukhopadhyay (Georgia Tech, USA); Kaushik Roy 28 Neural Network Transfer Learning for the Recognition of Human Behavior and Affect Schwenker, Friedhelm (Univ. of Ulm, Germany); Scherer, Stefan; 29 Online Real-Time Strategies for Data Stream Mining Mahardhika Pratama (La Trobe University, Australia), Plamen P. Angelov, Meng Joo Er, Edwin Lughofer 30 Optimizing Neural Networks via Evolutionary Computation and Swarm Intelligence Wei-Chang Yeh (National Tsing Hua Univ. Taiwan), Yew-Soon Ong 31 Probabilistic Models and Kernel Methods Sun, Shiliang (East China Normal Univ. China); Ding, Shifei; Liu, Huawen; Wang, Wenjian; Yang, Xiaowei; Zhang, Li; Zhao, Jing 32 Reservoir Computing in Hardware Merkel, Cory (Airforce Research Laboratory, USA); McDonald, Nathan; Thiem, Clare; Wysocki, Bryant 33 Smart Educational Techniques in Big Data Age Guandong Xu (Univ. Technology Sydney, Australia), Gang Li, and Wu He ############################################################################ # ############Paper Submission and Publication############ * Regular paper can have up to 8 pages in double-column IEEE Conference format * All papers are to be prepared using IEEE-compliant Latex or Word templates on paper of U.S. letter size. * All submitted papers will be checked for plagiarism through the IEEE CrossCheck system. * Papers with significant overlap with the authors own papers or other papers will be rejected without review. ######################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: NEURAL NETWORK MODELS * Feedforward neural networks * Recurrent neural networks * Self-organizing maps * Radial basis function networks * Attractor neural networks and associative memory * Modular networks * Fuzzy neural networks * Spiking neural networks * Reservoir networks (echo-state networks, liquid-state machines, etc.) * Large-scale neural networks * Other topics in artificial neural networks MACHINE LEARNING * Supervised learning * Unsupervised learning and clustering, (including PCA, and ICA) * Reinforcement learning * Probabilistic and information-theoretic methods * Support vector machines and kernel methods * EM algorithms * Mixture models, ensemble learning, and other meta-learning or committee algorithms * Bayesian, belief, causal, and semantic networks * Statistical and pattern recognition algorithms * Visualization of data * Feature selection, extraction, and aggregation * Evolutionary learning * Hybrid learning methods * Computational power of neural networks * Deep learning * Other topics in machine learning NEURODYNAMICS * Dynamical models of spiking neurons * Synchronization and temporal correlation in neural networks * Dynamics of neural systems * Chaotic neural networks * Dynamics of analog networks * Neural oscillators and oscillator networks * Dynamics of attractor networks * Other topics in neurodynamics COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE * Connectomics * Models of large-scale networks in the nervous system * Models of neurons and local circuits * Models of synaptic learning and synaptic dynamics * Models of neuromodulation * Brain imaging * Analysis of neurophysiological and neuroanatomical data * Cognitive neuroscience * Models of neural development * Models of neurochemical processes * Neuroinformatics * Other topics in computational neuroscience NEURAL MODELS OF PERCEPTION, COGNITION AND ACTION * Neurocognitive networks * Cognitive architectures * Models of conditioning, reward and behavior * Cognitive models of decision-making * Embodied cognition * Cognitive agents * Multi-agent models of group cognition * Developmental and evolutionary models of cognition * Visual system * Auditory system * Olfactory system * Other sensory systems * Attention * Learning and memory * Spatial cognition, representation and navigation * Semantic cognition and language * Neural models of symbolic processing * Reasoning and problem-solving * Working memory and cognitive control * Emotion and motivation * Motor control and action * Dynamical models of coordination and behavior * Consciousness and awareness * Models of sleep and diurnal rhythms * Mental disorders * Other topics in neural models of perception, cognition and action NEUROENGINEERING * Brain-machine interfaces * Neural prostheses * Neuromorphic hardware * Embedded neural systems * Other topics in neuroengineering BIO-INSPIRED AND BIOMORPHIC SYSTEMS * Brain-inspired cognitive architectures * Embodied robotics * Evolutionary robotics * Developmental robotics * Computational models of development * Collective intelligence * Swarms * Autonomous complex systems * Self-configuring systems * Self-healing systems * Self-aware systems * Emotional computation * Artificial life * Other topics in bio-inspired and biomorphic systems APPLICATIONS * Bioinformatics * Biomedical engineering * Data analysis and pattern recognition * Speech recognition and speech production * Robotics * Neurocontrol * Approximate dynamic programming, adaptive critics, and Markov decision processes * Neural network approaches to optimization * Signal processing, image processing, and multi-media * Temporal data analysis, prediction, and forecasting; time series analysis * Communications and computer networks * Data mining and knowledge discovery * Power system applications * Financial engineering applications * Applications in multi-agent systems and social computing * Manufacturing and industrial applications * Expert systems * Clinical applications * Big data applications * Smart grid applications * Other applications CROSS-DISCIPLINARY TOPICS * Hybrid intelligent systems * Swarm intelligence * Sensor networks * Quantum computation * Computational biology * Molecular and DNA computation * Computation in tissues and cells * Artificial immune systems * Other cross-disciplinary topics ################################################################ ##########################Organizing Committee########################## General Chair * Yoonsuck Choe, Texas A and M University, USA Program Chair * Christina Jayne, Robert Gordon University, UK Technical Co-Chairs * Irwin King, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China * Barbara Hammer, University of Bielefeld, Germany Plenary Chair * Cesare Alippi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy Special Session Co-Chairs * Derong Liu, University of Chicago, USA * Tatiana Tambouriatzis, University of Piraeus, Greece Tutorial Chair * Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA Workshop Chair * Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece Poster Session Chair * Richard Duro, Universidad Coruna, Spain Competition Chair * Juyang (John) Weng, Michigan State University, USA Panels Chair * Robert Kozma, University of Memphis, USA Awards Chair * Nikola Kasabov, Auckland University of Technology, Australia Web Reviews Chair * Tomasz Cholewo, Lexmark International Inc., USA Sponsors & Exhibits Chair * Lipo Wang, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Publication Chair * Bill Howell, Natural Resources Canada (retired), Canada International Liaison * Teresa Ludermir, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brazil European Liaison * Danilo P. Mandic, Imperial College, UK Asia-Pacific Liaison * Minho Lee, Kyungpook National University, Korea Neuroscience Liaison * Péter Érdi, Kalamazoo College, USA Robotics Liaison * Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, INRIA, France Industry Liaison * Sven F. Crone, Lancaster University, UK Publicity Co-Chairs * Giacomo Boracchi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy * Simone Scardapane, Sapienza University, Italy * Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore Management University, Singapore Local Arrangements Co-Chairs * Frank W. Moore, University of Alaska, USA * Kenrick Mock, University of Alaska, USA Registration Chair * Jaerock Kwon, Kettering University, USA Webmaster * Jaewook Yoo, Texas A & M University, USA ####################################################################### ##################Sponsoring Organizations################## * INNS - International Neural Network Society * IEEE - Computational Intelligence Society * BSCS - Budapest Semester in Cognitive Science * BMI - Brain-Mind Institute ############################################################

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PhD student openings in auditory neuroscience at Purdue University
by Bharadwaj, Hari M Nov. 15, 2016

Nov. 15, 2016

[Apologies for cross posting] Two PhD student positions are available at the Systems Neuroscience of Auditory Perception<https://engineering.purdue.edu/SNAPLab> Lab at Purdue University. We study the neural mechanisms of auditory perception in complex multi-source environments (e.g., crowded restaurants or busy streets) using a combination of human neuroimaging techniques (EEG, MRI, otoacoustic emissions), behavioral listening experiments, and computational modeling. In addition we are interested in the effects of overexposure to loud sounds and early aging on the auditory system, and how that affects perception. A notable capability of the lab is the ability to non-invasively measure, and to model physiological responses at different levels of the auditory pathway from the cochlea to the cortex. Please visit https://engineering.purdue.edu/SNAPLab for more information about the lab, the facilities, and the vibrant intellectual environment at Purdue with a large community of hearing researchers<https://www.purdue.edu/hhs/slhs/events/seminars_in_hearing_research.html> and neuroscientists<https://www.purdue.edu/discoverypark/pillars/integrative-neuroscience-cente…>. Applications can be submitted through the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering<https://engineering.purdue.edu/BME/Academics/Graduate/Admissions>, or the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences<http://www.purdue.edu/hhs/slhs/graduate/index.html> as described here<https://engineering.purdue.edu/SNAPLab/research/prospective.html>. Informal enquiries about the positions can be directed to Hari Bharadwaj (hbharadwaj(a)purdue.edu) Preference will be given to applications received by December 15, 2016. -- Hari M. Bharadwaj, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering Lyles-Porter Hall Purdue University 715 Clinic Drive, Room 3162 West Lafayette, IN 47907 (765) 496-2249 hbharadwaj(a)purdue.edu<mailto:hbharadwaj@purdue.edu> http://engineering.purdue.edu/SNAPLab<https://engineering.purdue.edu/SNAPLab>

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3-year PostDoc position in Aberdeen
by Andersen, Soren Nov. 15, 2016

Nov. 15, 2016

Hello, a 3-year PostDoc position in my lab in Aberdeen in Scotland is currently open. It is in a BBSRC funded project to do quantitative modelling of EEG and behavioural data, combining steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) and drift diffusion modelling. Candidates should have very solid technical skills (esp. Matlab) and ideally know something about attention and EEG. The position is still open until the 20th of November and applications must be submitted through the University's online application portal. For further information see: https://www.abdnjobs.co.uk/vacancy/research-fellow-281767.html Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding this position. Best regards, Søren Andersen ------------------------------ Søren K. Andersen, Ph.D. School of Psychology William Guild Building Room T5 Kings College Old Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK Phone: +44 (0)1224 274240 Email: skandersen(a)abdn.ac.uk http://www.abdn.ac.uk/staffpages/skandersen The University of Aberdeen is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC013683. Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain na charthannas clàraichte ann an Alba, Àir. SC013683.

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2017 Neural Inspired Computational Elements Workshop - San Jose CA 3/6/17-3/8/17
by Aimone, James Bradley Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

Dear Colleagues, The registration and abstract submissions are open for NICE 2017, which is going to be held at IBM Almaden Research Center, March 6-8, 2017. https://www.src.org/calendar/e006125/ With ever increasing interest and activity in AI and next generation computing systems, this event is again bringing together a unique and very strong cross section of experts across neuroscience, theory, algorithms, hardware and applications. We expect to have a larger number of attendees this year. Registration slots are limited due to venue logistics - we encourage you to register early to reserve your spot. Looking forward to seeing you in Almaden in March. Murat Murat Okandan, Ph.D. NICE Workshop Foundation mokandan(a)niceworkshop.org<mailto:mokandan@niceworkshop.org> http://niceworkshop.org -------------------------- 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

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[EAIS 2017] Call for Papers
by Teng Teck Hou Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ################################################## CALL FOR PAPERS IEEE Conference on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems (EAIS 2017) May 31- June 2, 2017, Ljubljana, Slovenia http://msc.fe.uni-lj.si/eais2017/ ################################################## The 2017 IEEE Conference on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems (EAIS 2017) will be held in Ljubljana (Slovenia), a beautiful medieval town. Ljubljana lies halfway between Vienna and Venice, at the crossroads of different cultures, geographical regions, and historical developments. Compared to other capitals, Ljubljana is very small, very green, and very walking-friendly town, which makes it a great place to explore on foot. It is in the center of Slovenia and enables exploring some of the most popular tourist sights of Slovenia in one day. Visit enchanting Bled, with its medieval castle perched upon the lake, explore mysterious Predjama castle and end the trip by visiting Postojna cave, Slovenia's number 1 attraction. EAIS 2017 will provide a working and friendly atmosphere and will be a leading international forum focusing on the discussion of recent advances, the exchange of recent innovations and the outline of open important future challenges in the area of Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems. Over the past decade, this area has emerged to play an important role on a broad international level in today's real-world applications, especially those ones with high complexity and dynamics change. Its embedded modelling and learning methodologies are able to cope with real-time demands, changing operation conditions, varying environmental influences, human behaviors, knowledge expansion scenarios and drifts in online data streams. EAIS 2017 is organized by the IEEE Technical Committee on Evolving and Adaptive Intelligent Systems, SMC Society. The conference series has a history starting in 2006 in Lake District (England). It was held after that in Witten-Bommerholz (Germany), Nashville (USA), Leicester (England), Paris (France), Madrid (Spain), Singapore, Linz (Austria), Douai (France), and Natal (Brasil). Authors of selected papers will be invited to submit extended versions for possible inclusion in a special issue of the Journal Evolving Systems (Springer). During EAIS 2017 the results of the new IEEE SMC Society sponsored competition on Autonomous Learning Machines (ALMA) will be announced. ##############################Important Dates############################## * Paper Submission December 24, 2016 * Paper Decision Notification February 24, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission March 24, 2017 * Authors registration March 24, 2017 * Conference May 31 - June 2, 2017 ########################################################################### ##########################Keynote Speakers########################## * Plamen Angelov, Professor, Lancaster University, United Kingdom * Fernando Gomide, Professor, University of Campinas, Brazil * Nikola Kasabov, Professor of Computer Sience, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand #################################################################### ##########################Accepted Special Sessions########################## 1. Computational Intelligence in Control of Power Generating Systems, Transmission and Load Management, Session proposer: Horst Schulte, HTW Berlin Email: Horst.Schulte(a)HTW-Berlin.de ############################################################################ # ############Paper Submission and Publication############ * Papers for EAIS 2017 should be submitted electronically through the Conference website at http://msc.fe.uni-lj.si/eais2017. * Submitted papers will be refereed by experts in the fields and ranked based on the criteria of originality, significance, quality and clarity. ######################################################## ######################################################## IEEE Autonomous Learning Machines Competition ALMA Competition is organized by IEEE SMC Society. The goal of this competition is to increase the level of autonomy of the learning algorithms. Competition Tracks: 1. New data sets and streams that are suitable demonstrators for the topic of the competition. 2. New methods and algorithms for Autonomous Machine Learning in: . Clustering . Classification . Control . Prediction Awards: Track 1 - $1000 Track 2 - $1000 in each category ($4000). Important Dates: 31 January, 2017. Deadline for submitting the algorithms in open source GNU license format. The proposed methods and algorithms must be described in form of papers and submitted to the ALS Competition track of EAIS 2017 and presented at the conference (which will be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia). May 31- June 2, 2017. Results will be announced during the conference EAIS 2017. ######################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: * Basic Methologies Evolving Soft Computing Techniques Evolving Fuzzy Systems Evolving Rule-Based Classifiers Evolving Neuro-Fuzzy Systems Adaptive Evolving Neural Networks Adaptive Evolving Fuzzy Systems Online Genetic and Evolutionary Algorithms Data Stream Mining Incremental and Evolving Clustering Approaches Adaptive Control Adaptive Pattern Recognition Computational Intelligence in Control and Estimation Incremental and Evolving ML Classifiers Adaptive Statistical Techniques Evolving Decision Systems Big Data Advanced Concepts * Problems and Methodologies in Data Streams Stability, Robustness, Convergence in Evolving Systems Online Feature Selection and Dimension Reduction Online Active and Semi-supervised Learning Online Complexity Reduction Computational Aspects Interpretability Issues Incremental Adaptive Ensemble Methods Online Bagging and Boosting Self-monitoring Evolving Systems Human-Machine Interaction Issues Hybrid Modeling Transfer Learning Reservoir Computing Real-world Applications * EIS for On-Line Modeling, System Identification, and Control EIS for Time Series Prediction EIS for Data Stream Mining and Adaptive Knowledge Discovery EIS in Robotics, Intelligent Transport and Advanced Manufacturing EIS in Advanced Communications and Multi-Media Applications EIS in Bioinformatics and Medicine EIS in Online Quality Control and Fault Diagnosis EIS in Condition Monitoring Systems EIS in Adaptive Evolving Controller Design EIS in User Activities Recognition EIS in Huge Database and Web Mining EIS in Visual Inspection and Image Classification EIS in Image Processing EIS in Cloud Computing EIS in Multiple Sensor Networks EIS in Query Systems and Social Networks EIS in Alternative Statistical and Machine Learning Approaches ################################################################ ##########################Organizing Committee########################## * Honorary Chairs Plamen Angelov, UK Dimitar Filev, USA Nikola Kasabov, New Zealand * Conference Chair Igor Škrjanc, chair, Slovenia Sašo Blažic, co-chair, Slovenia * Publication Chairs Edwin Lughofer, Austria Sašo Blažic, Slovenia * Local Arrangement Chairs Dejan Dovžan, Slovenia Milan Simcic, Slovenia * Web & Publicity Chair José A. Iglesias, Spain Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore * Special Session Chair: Radu-Emil Precup, Romania * Program Committee Chair: Igor Škrjanc, Slovenia * International Program Committe Cesare Alippi, Italy Plamen Angelov, UK Rosangela Ballini, Brazil Rashmi Dutta Baruah, India Abdelhamid Bouchachia, UK Jorge Cassillas, Spain Bruno Costa, Brazil Dejan Dovžan, Slovenia Alain Droniou, France Dimitar Filev, USA Nadine Gaertner, Germany Joao Gama, Portugal Fernando Gomide, Brazil Jose Antonio Iglesias Martínez, Spain Lazaros Iliadis, Greece Nik Kasabov, New Zealand Juš Kocijan, Slovenia Ana Kosareva, Germany Rudolf Kruse, Germany Agapito Ledezma, Spain Daniel Furtado Leite, Brazil Andre Lemos, Brazil Chin Teng Lin, Taiwan Edwin Lughofer, Austria Yannis Manolopoulos, Greece Trevor Martin, UK Moamar Sayed Mouchaweh, France Veronika Nesheva, UK Seiichi Ozawa, Japan Witold Pedrycz, Canada Radu-Emil Precup, Romania Jose de Jesus Rubio, Mexico Araceli Sanchis de Miguel, Spain Horst Schulte, Germany Olga Senyukova, Russia Teck Hou Teng, Singapore Marley Vellasco, Brazil Di Wang, UAE Wilson Wang, Canada Ronald Yager, USA ####################################################################### #########################Sponsoring Organizations######################### * IEEE * Laboratory of Modeling, Simulation and Control, University of Ljubljana * Laboratory of Autonomous Mobile Systems, University of Ljubljana ##########################################################################

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Workshop on Brain dynamics on multiple scales -- 19-23 June 2017, Dresden
by Thomas Wennekers Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

Call for participation Workshop on Brain dynamics on multiple scales – paradigms, their relations, and integrated approaches MSBDy 2017, 19-23 June, Dresden, Germany WORKSHOP WEBSITE: http://www.pks.mpg.de/msbdy17/ APPLICATION DEADLINE: 28 Feb 2017 ABSTRACT Previous research paradigms in the brain sciences have often focused on one spatial or temporal scale only, for instance defined by the experimental technique of choice or a specific set of cognitive phenomena. This workshop aims at exploring paradigms and concepts such as complexity, information, or dynamical systems that provide bridges, links, relations, or connections between two, three or more "elements of brain science" and link them to recent developments in mathematics, physics, and neurobiological experimental techniques. Workshop sessions 1. The Brain as a complex system complex networks, dynamics and criticality, understanding the interplay between structure, dynamics, and function. 2. Information Processing and Coding : what is the current state in using information-theoretic principles like infomax, complexity measures, evidence, or surprise as tools to understand the brain? 3. Brain Oscillations, Waves and Synchronisation : what are their functional roles? 4. Multiple scales and levels: what are proper "building blocks" of the brain or a brain theory? 5. Large scale cognitive brain systems: what are the best approaches to an understanding of high level cognitive and brain functions including consciousness? DETAILS The workshop takes place on the premises of the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex systems in Dresden. Thanks to a generous grant by the MPIPKS participation in the event is free, with the exception of a modest fee of Euro 120 for social dinners, excursions and coffee breaks. The grant otherwise covers food and subsistence in the guest house of the MPIPKS for accepted participants. Posters can be hung for the duration of the meeting. To apply, please follow: http://www.pks.mpg.de/msbdy17/ IMPORTANT DATES: - Application Deadline: 28 Feb 2017 - Notification of acceptance: 31 Mar 2017 - Workshop Date: 19 Jun - 23 Jun 2017 SPEAKERS Nicolas Brunel (Univ Chicago, USA) Bruno Cessac (INRIA, Sophia Antipolis, France) Gustavo Deco (UPF Barcelona, Spain) Stanislas Dehaene (INSERM-CEA, College de France) Alain Destexhe (UNIC, CNRS, France) Markus Diesmann (Jülich Research Centre, Germany) Ole Jensen (Donders Institute, Nijmegen, NL) Mark A Kramer (Boston University, USA) Anders Lansner (Stockholm University and KTH, Sweden) Christoph Michel (Université de Genéve, Switzerland) Juergen Jost (MPI for Mathematics in the Sciences, Leipzig, Germany) Guenther Palm (University of Ulm, Germany) Simon Schulz (Imperial College London, UK) Elad Schneidman (Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel) Marc Timme (MPI für Dynamik und Selbstorganisation, Göttingen, Germany) Giulio Tononi (University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, to be confirmed) Vlad Vyazovskiy (University of Oxford, UK) ORGANIZERS Peter Achermann (University of Zurich, Switzerland) Eckehard Olbrich (MPI for Mathematics in the Sciences, Leipzig, Germany) Thomas Wennekers (University of Plymouth, UK) ACKNOWLEDGMENT: This workshop is supported by the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems. ________________________________ [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.

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Postdoc position in Amsterdam - http://herseninstituut.nl/en/about-us/vacancies/postdoctoral-researcher/
by Ingo Willuhn Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

A postdoctoral position in the Willuhn/Denys lab at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN) in Amsterdam is available immediately. I am looking for somebody that comes from a computational angle and is analysis-savvy. The candidate should be interested in studying cortico-basal ganglia function (reward learning; behavioral flexibility; compulsivity due to dysfunction) with cutting-edge tools in behaving rats. Our team has a lot to offer and can teach the basic neuroscience-related skills to candidates inexperienced in that area: The pre-clinical group headed by Ingo Willuhn studies both the neurobiology of compulsive behavior and basic behavioral functions contributing to automation of behavior (http://herseninstituut.nl/en/research/researchgroups/denyswilluhn-group/) The team has close ties to clinical researchers studying such behaviors at the Department of Psychiatry of the Academic Medical Center (AMC; chaired by Damiaan Denys), providing optimal conditions for a translational, multidisciplinary approach. Current research in the lab includes rodent models of obsessive-compulsive disorder and drug addiction, but also aims at understanding basic behavioral function of cortico-basal ganglia circuits. Behavioral assays testing cognitive flexibility, emotion, and decision making in mice and rats are combined with simultaneous methods for neurostimulation (DBS, optogenetics, pharmacogenetics), neurochemical measurements (microdialysis, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry), electrophysiological recordings (single units, local field potentials), and fMRI. The latest addition to this tool set is in vivo calcium imaging in freely-moving animals. The primary focus of the successful applicant will be to investigate real-time neurobiological signals in the basal ganglia during operant behavior using in vivo fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and in vivo calcium imaging in freely-behaving transgenic rats. The goal of these studies is to better characterize neuronal mechanisms of cognitive flexibility and habit formation, and eventually compulsive behavior. The ideal candidate has a strong background in the analysis and modeling of complex data and is an expert in using Matlab and/or similar software packages (necessary). Experience in neuroeconomics, calcium imaging, or rodent behavioral testing in neuroscience is a bonus, but not necessary. Candidates should be enthusiastic, have excellent oral and written communication skills in English, and should be motivated to integrate well into a fun, creative, and collaborative team of international scientists that offers opportunities to cooperate with some of the best groups in the field worldwide. The fully funded position is for a period of four years (1 + 3 years), including competitive salary and excellent benefits. Highly motivated candidates are encouraged to contact Ingo Willuhn (i.willuhn(a)nin.knaw.nl<mailto:i.willuhn@nin.knaw.nl>). Your email should contain a CV, brief descriptions of past research experience, future research goals, and contact info for at least two people that could provide letters of reference. The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN) is a not-for-profit subsidiary of the prestigious Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), located in the South of beautiful Amsterdam, just a short train ride from the inner city. The institute’s operating language is English, as it is for many Amsterdam organizations. The NIN collaborates with the AMC Department of Psychiatry, part of the University of Amsterdam, conducting neurobiological and patient-centered research on compulsivity, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addiction. The department aims at developing a better understanding of neuropsychopathology and at improving treatment options. Best, Ingo ----- Ingo Willuhn, PhD Group Leader & Associate Professor Team 'Neuromodulation and Behavior' Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) & Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA) Meibergdreef 47 1105BA Amsterdam The Netherlands i.willuhn(a)nin.knaw.nl<mailto:i.willuhn@nin.knaw.nl> tel (31) 20 5665491 www.herseninstituut.nl/en/research/researchgroups/denyswilluhn-group/<http://www.herseninstituut.nl/en/research/researchgroups/denyswilluhn-group/> www.amc.nl/web/Research/Who-is-Who-in-Research/Who-is-Who-in-Research.htm?p…<http://www.amc.nl/web/Research/Who-is-Who-in-Research/Who-is-Who-in-Researc…>

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PhD position in computational neuroscience / neuro-robotics
by Claudius Gros Nov. 14, 2016

Nov. 14, 2016

I would like to bring your attention to our PhD-program in Computational Neurosciences / Neuro-Robotics / Dynamical Systems At the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt Field(s): complex systems theory, computational neurosciences neural models and networks, dynamical systems Application deadline: January 7, 2017 Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros E-mail: cgr(a)itp.uni-frankfurt.de Address: Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Project description: Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Frankfurt University. We are developing new models and generative principles for the brain using a range of toolsets from dynamical systems theory and computational neurosciences. Examples are new objective functions and generating functionals, attractor metadynamics, transient state dynamics and self-limiting Hebbian plasticity rules. Several subjects are available for the announced PhD thesis including studies of the autonomous brain dynamics and/or studies of new synaptic plasticity rules, like trace formulations of STDP and the interplay between short term synaptic plasticity and neural dynamics. The work will include analytical investigations and numerical simulations of neural models and neural networks, using the toolset of dynamical systems theory. The candidates should have a Diploma/Master in physics with an excellent academic track record and good computational skills. Experience or strong interest in the fields of complex systems, computational neurosciences, dynamical systems theory and/or artificial or biological cognitive systems is expected. The degree of scientific research experience is expected to be on the level of a German Diploma/Master. The appointments will start early 2017, for up to three years. Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a list of publications and arrange for two letters of reference to be sent to the address below. Prof. Dr. C. Gros Institute for Theoretical Physics Goethe University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 1 60438 Frankfurt am Main Germany cgr(a)itp.uni-frankfurt.de http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros -------------------------------------- General information on the University of Frankfurt and its employment policy. With its around 46000 students and 4600 employees, the Goethe University in Frankfurt is the largest university in the state of Hessen and an internationally renowned, important regional employer. Numerous quality and performance oriented internal reforms have been initiated in the recent years. The reorganized campuses for natural sciences and humanities offer an ideal environment for research and education. Since 2008, the Goethe University is a foundation under public law and enjoys full administrative autonomy. The fixed-term employment of the academic staff is subject to the provisions of the Temporary Science Employment Law (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz) and the Hessian Higher Education Act (Hessisches Hochschulgesetz). The University advocates gender equality and therefore strongly encourages women to apply. People with disabilities are given preference if equally qualified. ***************************************** *** Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros *** *** +49 (0)69 798 47818 *** *** http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros *** ***************************************** ----------------------------------------------------------- --- Complex and Adaptive Dynamical Systems, A Primer --- --- A graduate-level textbook, Springer (2008/10/13/15) --- -----------------------------------------------------------

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PhD position, Neurocomputational Linguistics, Uni Bham / Google Research London
by Uta Noppeney Nov. 13, 2016

Nov. 13, 2016

*PhD position in Neurocomputational Linguistics* *University of Birmingham in collaboration with Google Research London* Language comprehension is critical for effective interactions in our social world. In order to understand ‘who does what to whom’ in natural language processing, the brain needs to assign a syntactic structure to every sentence – a process coined ‘syntactic parsing’. This interdisciplinary project will combine expertise from human neuroscience (University of Birmingham) and computational linguistics (Google Research London) to determine the neural mechanisms underlying sentence comprehension in the human brain and advance parsing algorithms in machines. To study natural language processing and the underlying neural mechanisms in humans, we will measure eye movements, behavioural (psychophysics) and electrophysiological responses (EEG/fMRI) in participants reading natural sentences from syntactically annotated corpora. We will employ advanced machine learning algorithms to characterize the computational operations and neural mechanisms underlying syntactic processing in the human brain. Conversely, the insights obtained from human neuroimaging (EEG/fMRI) and eye tracking will provide critical constraints on the parameters and algorithms used in machine. The PhD position is designed to involve a 3 month internship at Google Research London. The Computational Cognitive Neuroimaging Group (Uta Noppeney) in collaboration with Google Research London (Bernd Bohnet, Ryan McDonald) is seeking an enthusiastic PhD candidate with strong analytical and quantitative abilities. Applicants should have a background in computational linguistics, neuroscience, computer science, psychology, physics or related areas. Prior experience in statistical analysis and/or machine learning would be an advantage. The Computational Cognitive Neuroimaging Lab is based at the Department of Psychology and the Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics Centre of the University of Birmingham, UK. The centre provides an excellent multidisciplinary, interactive and collaborative research environment combining expertise in cognitive neuroimaging, psychophysics and computational neuroscience. The psychology department was rated 5th in the UK research assessment exercise. http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/psychology/research/labs/comp-cog-neuro… http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/cncr/index.aspx Applications will be considered until 8th January 2017. The starting date is Sept/Oct 2017. iCASE students must fulfil the MIBTP entry requirements and will join the MIBTP cohort for the taught modules and masterclasses during the first term. They will remain as an integral part of the MIBTP cohort and take part in the core networking activities and transferable skills training. For further information, please contact u.noppeney(a)bham.ac.uk <mailto:u.noppeney@bham.ac.uk>. Check eligibility and apply here: https://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/pgstudy/phd_opportunities/ap… <https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=79324&type=184&DID=14…>

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Postdoctoral Position in Clinical Neuroengineering at University of Geneva, Switzerland
by Tomislav Milekovic Nov. 12, 2016

Nov. 12, 2016

Postdoctoral Position in Clinical Neuroengineering at University of Geneva, Switzerland The lab of Prof. Christoph Michel at the University of Geneva is offering a postdoctoral position financed by the Swiss National Science Foundation for up to three years to work on clinical neuroengineering projects aimed at: 1. Restoring communication and independence of people with tetraplegia and locked-in syndrome. 2. Advance the analysis of scalp and intracranial EEG signals with functional connectivity tools and implement them in brain-computer interfaces. The position will be equally shared between Dr. Tomislav Milekovic and Prof. Christoph Michel. With Dr. Milekovic, the postdoc will work to develop and advance brain-computer interfaces based on electroencephalography (EEG) and intracortical microelectrode array recordings. These brain-computer interfaces will utilize adaptive decoders in order restore independence of people with locked-in syndrome. With Prof. Michel, the postdoc will use invasive and non-invasive brain recordings to study functional connectivity between brain areas in healthy volunteers and people with a range of neurological disorders. He will use the gained knowledge to improve brain-computer interfaces and closed-loop neurofeedback systems. The ideal candidate will have: 1. Background in computational/theoretical neuroscience, physics or mathematics 2. Experience in the analysis of electrophysiological signals (EEG, ECoG, LFP, spikes) 3. Experience in quantitative neural data analysis and Matlab 4. Experience in C/C++ software development 5. Experience in developing and using neural decoders The qualified candidate will benefit from joining a very dynamic and multidisciplinary group working at the interface of neuroscience, engineering and prosthetics. He will collaborate with several labs of the newly founded Campus Biotech in Geneva, and be strongly supported by the Wyss center for Bio and Neuroengineering led by Prof. John Donoghue. University of Geneva provides state-of-the-art facilities is one of the leading technical universities worldwide. In addition, University of Geneva offers competitive postdoctoral salaries ranking amongst the highest in the world. Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of two referees should be sent to tomislav.milekovic(a)epfl.ch.

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Postdoctoral Position in Neuroprosthetics at University of Geneva, Switzerland
by Tomislav Milekovic Nov. 12, 2016

Nov. 12, 2016

Postdoctoral Position in Neuroprosthetics at University of Geneva, Switzerland The group of Dr. Milekovic at the University of Geneva is offering a postdoctoral position financed by the Parkinson Schweiz foundation for up to two years to take a lead role on a neuroprosthetics project aimed at alleviating gait deficits of Parkinson's disease. The postdoc will be involved in all stages of the project, including the analysis of intracortical neural signals, development of movement decoding algorithms and the development of a brain-spine interface system aimed to alleviate the Parkinson's disease motor deficits through brain-controlled spinal cord stimulation. The ideal candidate will have: 1. Background in computational/theoretical neuroscience, physics or mathematics 2. Experience in the analysis of electrophysiological signals (spikes, LFP, ECoG, EEG) 3. Experience in quantitative neural data analysis and Matlab 4. Experience in C/C++ software development 5. Experience in developing and using neural decoding algorithms 6. Experience in implanting intracortical microelectrode arrays in non-human primates 7. Experience in working with non-human primates The qualified candidate will benefit from joining a very dynamic and multidisciplinary group working at the interface of neuroscience, engineering and prosthetics. He will closely collaborate with the groups of Profs. Gregoire Courtine, Stephanie Lacour and Silvestro Micera of EPFL, and enjoy a strong support of Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) surgeons, led by Dr. Jocelyne Bloch. Furthermore, he stands to benefit from the unique working environment of the newly founded Campus Biotech in Geneva, which houses the basic and clinical neuroscientists of the University of Geneva, translational researchers of EPFL's Center for Neuroprosthetics, and the regulatory and engineering experts of the Wyss center for Bio and Neuroengineering led by Prof. John Donoghue. University of Geneva provides state-of-the-art facilities and is one of the leading technical universities worldwide. In addition, University of Geneva offers highly competitive postdoctoral salaries ranking amongst the highest in the world. Situated in Switzerland on the coast of lake Leman and surrounded by pristine mountains famous for both summer and winter sports, Geneva prides itself as a pleasant and safe living and working environment. Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and two reference letters should be sent to <mailto:tomislav.milekovic@epfl.ch> tomislav.milekovic(a)epfl.ch.

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Neuroengineering postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Washington
by Alison S. Mehravari Nov. 10, 2016

Nov. 10, 2016

We invite applications for the Washington Research Foundation Innovation Postdoctoral Fellowships in Neuroengineering at the University of Washington in Seattle. These fellowships are offered through the UW Institute for Neuroengineering (UWIN), which links advances in biology, computing, devices, data science, and computational neuroscience to solve some of today's greatest scientific challenges about neural system function. These highly selective fellowships fund research in computational and engineering approaches to neuroscience; joint mentoring between faculty in different disciplines is strongly encouraged. The fellowships provide two years of funding including a $65,000 annual salary and a $25,000 research stipend. Applications are due by January 16, 2017. Please see http://uwin.washington.edu/post-docs/ for more information. ------------------------- Alison Mehravari, Ph.D. Assistant Director of Operations University of Washington Institute for Neuroengineering Air Force Center of Excellence: Nature Inspired Flight Technologies and Ideas Daniel Lab, Department of Biology University of Washington Box 351800, Seattle, WA 98195 amehrava(a)uw.edu<mailto:amehrava@uw.edu>, 206-543-7335

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PhD position in the Blue Brain Project, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL)
by Ramaswamy Srikanth Nov. 10, 2016

Nov. 10, 2016

----------------------------------------------------------------------------- PhD position in the Blue Brain Project - Department of In Silico Neuroscience ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Project title: Digital Reconstruction of Cholinergic Neuromodulation of Neocortical Microcircuitry Supervisors: Dr. Srikanth Ramaswamy, Prof. Henry Markram Keywords: Neocortex, microcircuits, simulation, neuromodulation, acetylcholine, dendrites, synaptic transmission, network activity Project description: Neuromodulators are chemical messengers - hormones, neuropeptides, and neurotransmitters - that diffusely target neurons and synapses in specific brain regions. Distinct groups of neurons located in subcortical areas release neuromodulators such as acetylcholine (ACh), noradrenaline, serotonin, dopamine, and histamine. These neuromodulators directly control information processing in neocortical microcircuits by modulating shifts between activity states such as sleep and wakefulness, or distraction and attention. Neuromodulators are also directly implicated in a spectrum of debilitating disorders such as migraine, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Yet, despite their crucial role in physiology and pathology, we lack a detailed understanding of the way they regulate the function of dendrites, synapses, neurons, and network activity in neocortical microcircuitry. The objective of the proposed PhD project will be to devise, implement and study biophysical models of ACh neuromodulation of neocortical microcircuitry. The project will leverage the Blue Brain Project’s data-driven digital reconstruction of neocortical microcircuitry1, 2, and augment it with biophysical models of the anatomy and physiology of ACh neuromodulation of somatosensory cortex. Specifically, the project will implement and constrain cellular and synaptic models of ACh neuromodulation and study its regulation of cortical activity states. The project requires active collaboration with the Laboratory of Neural Microcircuitry (LNMC), EPFL to design neurophysiological experiments in thenrodent somatosensory syetem and integrate relevant data into the digital reconstruction. Significant computing resources on a large high performance computing system will be made available for this project. 1. Markram, H.*, Muller, E.*, Ramaswamy, S.*, Reimann, M.* et al. (2015). Reconstruction and Simulation of Neocortical Microcircuitry. Cell 163:2, 456-495. * Co-first author. 2. Ramaswamy S.*, Courcol J-D.*, Abdellah M., Adaszewski S.R., Antille N. et al. (2015). The Neocortical Microcircuit Collaboration Portal: A Resource for Rat Somatosensory Cortex. Front. Neural Circuits 9:44. *Co-first author. Key collaborators: Dr. Rodrigo Perin (EPFL-LNMC), Ms. Ayah Khubieh (EPFL-LNMC), Dr. Eilif Muller (EPFL-BBP), Dr. Fabien Delalondre (EPFL-BBP), Prof. Felix Schürmann (EPFL-BBP), and Prof. Idan Segev (Hebrew University, Jerusalem). This project is offered in the context of the EPFL Doctoral School in Neuroscience (EDNE). Please visit http://phd.epfl.ch/neuroscience-openings for further details, and information on how to apply. Application Deadline: Nov 15th, 2016. For further details on the project contact: Dr. Srikanth Ramaswamy <srikanth.ramaswamy(a)epfl.ch<mailto:srikanth.ramaswamy@epfl.ch>> ------------- Dr. Srikanth Ramaswamy EPFL - Blue Brain Project Biotech Campus Chemin des Mines 9 1202 Geneva Switzerland Tel: +41 21 693 9633 Fax: +41 21 693 5350 www: https://people.epfl.ch/srikanth.ramaswamy

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Simons-Berkeley Research Fellowship - Call for Applications
by Bruno Olshausen Nov. 10, 2016

Nov. 10, 2016

Simons-Berkeley Research Fellowship -- Call for applications In Spring 2018 the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing will hold a semester-long program on Brain and Computation, see https://simons.berkeley.edu/programs/brain2018 The Institute invites applications for Simons-Berkeley Research Fellowships in connection this program. Simons-Berkeley Research Fellowships are intended for exceptional young scientists (within at most six years of the award of their PhD at the start of 2017-18 academic year). Applicants who already hold junior faculty or postdoctoral positions are welcome to apply. In particular, applicants who hold, or expect to hold, postdoctoral appointments at other institutions are encouraged to apply to spend one semester as a Simons-Berkeley Fellow subject to the approval of the postdoctoral institution. The Institute expects to award about 30 Fellowships in 2017-18; the majority of these are for one semester, but several appointments for a full academic year are expected to be made. In each semester of residence each Fellow will normally participate in at least one of the ongoing programs at the Institute. The Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing is a major international venue for collaborative research in theoretical computer science and related fields. The Institute is housed on the UC Berkeley campus, and provides a vibrant and welcoming environment for visiting researchers. In each academic semester the activities of the Institute are largely focused on specific research programs, each of which attracts around sixty long-term participants ranging from senior scientists to graduate students. Salaries and benefits are competitive and assistance with visas and housing will be provided. The Institute particularly encourages applications from women and minority candidates. For more on the Simons Institute and application instructions for the Simons-Berkeley Research Fellowships, please see https://simons.berkeley.edu/fellows2017 The deadline for receipt of complete application materials (except letters) is December 15, 2016. --------------------------------------- Bruno A. Olshausen Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute & School of Optometry Director, Redwood Center for Theoretical Neuroscience UC Berkeley 575A Evans hall, MC 3198 Berkeley, CA 94720-3198 http://redwood.berkeley.edu/bruno

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Neural Processing Letters: 2nd CFP for the Special Issue on "Off the mainstream: advances in neural networks and machine learning for pattern recognition"
by Friedhelm Schwenker Nov. 9, 2016

Nov. 9, 2016

2nd Call for Papers Special issue on Off the mainstream: advances in neural networks and machine learning for pattern recognition to be published in Neural Processing Letters *** Submission deadline: January 31, 2017 *** Guest editors: Edmondo Trentin, University of Siena, Italy (trentin(a)dii.unisi.it) Friedhelm Schwenker, University of Ulm, Germany (friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de) Nemat El Gayar, Cairo University, Egypt (elgayar.neamat(a)gmail.com) Hazem M. Abbas, Ain Shams University, Egypt (hazem.abbas(a)eng.asu.edu.eg) Aims and scope of the special issue: "Mainstream science is about publishing what everyone else is publishing with very small changes. You'd better at least start off that way if you want to get tenure," the sociologist Rodney Stark said. But "big ideas don't come to those who avoid risk", as John Bohannon added. The area of artificial neural networks (ANN) and machine learning (ML) makes no exception to these ends: Mainstream topics, originally stemming from exciting breakthroughs (the "big ideas") that gradually become trends and end-up being mostly over-beaten publishing tracks, have characterized the scientific literature throughout the whole history of these research fields. A few, widely known instances of such (more or less recent) mainstream trends are: - Supervised support vector machine training (in both primal and dual) - Supervised multilayer perceptron training via regular backpropagation - Radial basis functions networks - Bayesian networks (either shallow or deep) - Deep feed-forward and convolutional neural networks - Countless applications of the aforementioned machineries - The “approximation capabilities” of such machineries Based on these premises, this special issue invites paper submissions on real novel research developments in the areas of neural networks and learning machines that (1) are rooted in (or, aimed at) pattern recognition (PR), and that, above all, (2) do not follow in the footsteps of nowadays established trends. Preference (over applications, theoretical analysis, and variants of established techniques) will thus be given to submissions that hand out fresh and innovative ideas/architectures/algorithms, even if they are in their infancy (e.g., possibly lacking of a complete investigation of their theoretical properties). A detailed list of topics of interest would contradict the very perspective of the present special issue. Nonetheless, some general, topical research directions are (to name a few): - New ANN or ML architectures - New ANN, ML, or PR algorithms - New estimation/optimization/assessment techniques for ANNs, ML, or PR - New and sound combination/hybridization of machines - Solutions to new, relevant PR-related problems - New and sound solutions to established PR-related problems If you are not sure on whether your manuscripts matches the aims and scope of this special issue or not, do not hesitate to get in touch with the guest editors at any time. The special issue will comprise (a) papers submitted in response to this call, and (b) extended versions of selected papers from the ANNPR 2016 Workshop (https://neuro.informatik.uni-ulm.de/ANNPR2016/) sponsored by the International Association for Pattern Recognition. Paper submission: Papers must be submitted online via the Neural Processing Letters website (https://www.editorialmanager.com/nepl/default.aspx) selecting the choice that indicates this special issue (identifier: S.I.:Off_mainstream). Prepare your paper following the Journal guidelines for Authors (http://www.springer.com/computer/ai/journal/11063?detailsPage=pltci_1060677) All submitted papers will undergo a regular peer-review process. Important dates: Opening of electronic submission: September 1, 2016 Submission deadline: January 31, 2017 Completion of 1st round of review process: March 31, 2017 Re-submission of revised manuscripts: May 15, 2017 Final decision: June 30, 2017 Tentative publication of the Special Issue: Fall 2017 -- PD Dr. Friedhelm Schwenker University of Ulm Institute of Neural Information Processing D-89069 Ulm, Germany phone: +49-731-50-24159 fax: +49-731-50-24156 email: friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de www: http://www.uni-ulm.de/in/neuroinformatik/mitarbeiter/f-schwenker.html

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Video course on understanding higher cognition in terms of brain anatomy and physiology
by Andrew Coward Nov. 7, 2016

Nov. 7, 2016

A 29 lecture video course on approaches to understanding cognitive processes in terms of brain anatomy and physiology is now available at www.understandinghighercognition.com<http://www.understandinghighercognition.com> The lectures are based on a course given to third year and graduate students in computer science, psychology and neuroscience at the Australian National University in Canberra and also at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. Topics covered include: - The nature of understanding: lessons from the computer science approach to understanding complex systems - Major cognitive phenomena: attention; different types of memory; speech and consciousness - Key topics in brain anatomy, physiology and chemistry - Practical pressures on brain architecture exerted by natural selection: resource limits, learning without interference with prior learning, etc; - Architectural forms resulting from the practical pressures - Evidence for the existence of the predicted architectural forms in the brain; how to use the forms to support understanding - Understanding attention and different types of memory: semantic, episodic, priming, working and procedural memory - Understanding specific cognitive tasks - Understanding human consciousness and self awareness. Each lecture is divided into 5 - 10 minute topic videos. Lecture format is mainly images and graphics supported by verbal explanations. Textbook for the course is "Towards a Theoretical Neuroscience: from Cell Chemistry to Cognition<http://www.springer.com/us/book/9789400771062>" <http://www.springer.com/us/book/9789400771062> published by Springer. Access to the lectures is free.

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Post-Doctoral Position to Research Mediating and Moderating Factors that Determine Transfer of Working Memory Training at UC Riverside and UC Irvine.
by Aaron Seitz Nov. 5, 2016

Nov. 5, 2016

Please forward the below to anyone that you think might be interested. Thanks, -Aaron Post-Doctoral Position to Research Mediating and Moderating Factors that Determine Transfer of Working Memory Training at UC Riverside and UC Irvine. Aaron Seitz (UCR) and Susanne Jaeggi (UCI) are seeking to hire a post-doctoral researcher to work on a project funded by the National Institute of Mental Health entitled ³The Understanding Mediating and Moderating Factors that Determine Transfer of Working Memory Training² (https://ucrtoday.ucr.edu/40627 <https://ucrtoday.ucr.edu/40627> ). This individual is expected to take a lead role in designing and conducting experimental work investigating features of training that differentially lead to learning and transfer of learning, participant characteristics that determine predispositions for different training outcomes, and develop and implement tests that are valid towards assessing potential far transfer of working memory training to ecological settings. This project, which intends to run 31,000+ research participants (online and in lab) on working memory training, aims to generate a robust and reliable dataset on Working Memory training to settle current debates in the field and translate these findings to promote more effective methods of cognitive rehabilitation. Successful candidates should have strong technical skills, management skills, creativity and perseverance required to play a lead role in this sizeable project, and have expertise in one or more of the following areas and knowledge of the others; working memory, cognitive training, perceptual learning, and methods of assessing individual differences and effects of interventional studies. Researchers must possess a doctoral degree in Psychology, Education, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, or a related field. The University of California offers excellent benefits. Salary is based on research experience. The initial appointment is for 1 year with a possibility of extension. The post-doctoral researcher will be involved at all stages of the proposed research, including setting up experiments, collecting and analyzing data, training and supervision of graduate students and undergraduate research assistants, and dissemination of results at conferences and in research publications. The postdoc will spend equal time on the UCR and UCI campus and work closely with both Seitz and Jaeggi to insure that procedures are coordinated between the sites and that all personnel are properly trained and supervised. The primary appointment will be at the UC Riverside Brain Game Center for Mental Fitness and Well-being (http://braingamecenter.ucr.edu/ <http://braingamecenter.ucr.edu/> ). The Brain Game Center¹s mission is to research, test, and disseminate evidence-based, scientifically optimized brain fitness games that transfer benefits to real-life activities. The Center has recently moved into a 3000 square foot facility that provides an ideal environment for the proposed work with a staff of full time research coordinators, full time programmers and a team of postdocs, graduate students, and an army of research assistants that facilitates the development, testing and dissemination of brain training games and cognitive assessment tools. The Brain Game Center is the only university-based research center focused on research of brain training games, and it has a track record of making tested procedures publically available so that people can try them out for themselves. The post-doc will also spend time at the UCI Working Memory and Plasticity Lab (http://wmp.education.uci.edu <http://wmp.education.uci.edu/> ) whose mission lies in the development of working memory interventions for populations across the lifespan, with the aim to understand the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms that drive training-related changes using behavioral and neuroimaging methods, as well as transcranial electrical stimulation. The WMP lab currently employs 3 full-time research coordinators, as well as a team of undergraduate research assistants, and graduate students from both, the School of Education and the Department of Cognitive Sciences, and there is a host of ongoing national and international research collaboration providing opportunities for networking and intellectual exchange. Candidates should send a cover letter, CV, relevant publications, and the names of three references with phone numbers and email addresses to: Aaron Seitz aseitz(a)ucr.edu <mailto:aseitz@ucr.edu> ) and/or Susanne Jaeggi (susanne.jaeggi@u <mailto:susanne.jaeggi@gmail.com> ci.edu <http://ci.edu/> ). Review of materials will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. ************************************************** Aaron Seitz, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology Director of UCR Brain Game Center University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521 Ph: (951) 827-6422 Fax: (951) 827-3985 Email: aseitz(a)ucr.edu Web: http://faculty.ucr.edu/~aseitz/ BGC: http://braingamecenter.ucr.edu **************************************************

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2 postdoctoral positions at the University of Pennsylvania
by Maria Neimark Geffen Nov. 3, 2016

Nov. 3, 2016

2 postdoctoral positions: Neuronal circuits for dynamic auditory perception. The Geffen Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA, USA) has two openings for a postdoctoral researcher (one experimental and one theoretical/computational) to study the neuronal circuits for dynamic auditory perception. There are a number of projects available, including: investigating intra-cortical and subcortical circuits supporting auditory adaptation; identifying neuronal circuits for hearing in the presence of noise; unraveling neuronal circuits controlling learning-driven changes in auditory acuity. We use cutting-edge experimental techniques for investigating population neuronal activity, including two-photon imaging of Calcium activity in behaving, head-fixed rodents, large-scale electrophysiological chronic and acute recordings, optogenetic, pharmacological and behavioral techniques. We are a creative, productive and collaborative group. Please see our lab website for more details on ongoing projects in the laboratory and recent publications ( http://www.med.upenn.edu/hearing <http://www.med.upenn.edu/hearing> ). The ideal candidate will be an energetic, talented, friendly, enthusiastic and creative researcher, who has recently completed (or plans on completing) their PhD and has received training in neuroscience, psychology, chemistry or biology (for the experimental position) or computational neuroscience, physics, mathematics or computer science (for the computational position). Prior experience in systems neuroscience is desired, but a highly successful applicants wishing to switch to neuroscience from other fields will also be considered. Proficiency with Matlab or other scientific computing software is expected. The campus of the University of Pennsylvania <http://www.upenn.edu/> has a wonderful collegiate feel, and the Medical School is located on the main campus, facilitating collaborations across departments. For a sample of events that almost everyone in our lab attends, consider: a weekly lab meeting, a weekly Computational Neuroscience Initiative seminar, a bi-weekly auditory journal club, a weekly interdisciplinary Mind and Brain seminar, and much more. Philadelphia is a vibrant city with a variety of cultural, gastronomical and entertainment attractions. To apply, please send your CV along with a cover letter briefly summarizing your research interests and include pdfs of your recent publications to Prof. Maria N. Geffen mgeffen(a)med.upenn.edu <mailto:mgeffen@med.upenn.edu> .

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Visit the Bernstein Network at booth #4017 at SfN 2016 for your next career step in Computational Neuroscience
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder Nov. 3, 2016

Nov. 3, 2016

Dear all, The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience will exhibit at the SfN Meeting 2016. Please find us at the "Neuroscience in Germany" booth #4017. The booth will present: * research fields * study and training programs * open positions * research and funding opportunities We are looking forward to welcoming you at booth #4017! Best regards, Kerstin Schwarzwälder -- 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 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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3 Research fellow positions at the University of Sussex
by Thomas Nowotny Nov. 2, 2016

Nov. 2, 2016

We have 3 open positions for research fellows in Computational Neuroscience, bio-inspired Robotics and Computer Science (GPU accelerated computing). The positions are part of the new Brains-on-Board project (http://gow.epsrc.ac.uk/NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=EP/P006094/1) which is a multi-university collaboration aiming to create robotic controllers that will enable autonomous robots with the navigational and learning abilities of a honeybee. The project involves five research groups at the University of Sheffield, Queen Mary University, London, and the University of Sussex performing research whose goal is biomimetic robot control and which will combine autonomous robotics, computational neuroscience, accelerated neural network simulations on GPU architectures and insect neuroscience and behaviour. In Sussex we are seeking to employ a team of 3 research fellows for initially 2 years, with possible extension up to 5 years. We envisage the fellows to start in January 2017. RF 1 (ref 1388) in bio-inspired robotics, will develop insect-derived models of navigation and apply them to autonomous robots. The work will include refining and developing models of insect navigation and testing them on robotic platforms ranging from the Sussex Gantry robot through wheeled robots to autonomous aerial vehicles. A successful candidate will have a keen interest in the interface of computational biology and bio-inspired robotics and a proven track record in working in this area. RF 2 (ref 1389) in Computational Neuroscience, will work on models of associative learning, multimodal integration and decision making in insects. The work will include formulating neuronal network models of the mushroom bodies, central complex and motor areas of the bee brain constrained by experimental data. The models will then be employed and tested on robotic platforms, including wheeled robots and aerial vehicles. A successful candidate will have a keen interest in computational neuroscience and experience with computational modelling. RF 3 (ref 1390) in Computer Science, working on GPU accelerated simulation of brain models and brain-inspired robot controllers, building on our GeNN meta-compiler and the SpineCreator/SpineML API to GeNN. The work will include developing methods for model- and hardware-aware GPU-accelerated simulations methods that will allow us to efficiently simulate both large-scale models in Computational Neuroscience on super-computers and bio-inspired robotic controllers on embedded systems GPU accelerators. A successful candidate will have proven skills in complex software development with a focus on scientific computing. All RFs will work together on the project within Sussex and in the larger Brains-On-Board team. We encourage applicants to apply for multiple positions if they are interested and feel qualified. Please indicate any preferences when applying for multiple positions. In order to apply got to http://www.sussex.ac.uk/aboutus/jobs/1388-1389-1390 where you can find further details and the application form. The closing date is 1 December 2016. For informal enquiries, please contact Prof Thomas Nowotny (t.nowotny(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:t.nowotny@sussex.ac.uk>) or Dr Andy Philippides (andrewop(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:andrewop@sussex.ac.uk>). With kind regards, Thomas -- Prof Thomas Nowotny Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange School of Engineering and Informatics University of Sussex Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ, UK Phone: +441273678593 FAX: +441273877873

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PhD position @ Blue Brain Project - Plasticity in the neocortex
by emuller Nov. 2, 2016

Nov. 2, 2016

----------------------------------------------------------------------------- PhD position in the Blue Brain Project - Department of In Silico Neuroscience ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Project title: Principles of biophysical structural plasticity in the neocortex Supervisors: Prof. Henry Markram, Dr. Eilif Muller Keywords: simulation, neocortex, plasticity, network reorganization, assemblies, coding, dendrites, calcium, NMDA Project description: During our lifetimes, our brains undergo continuous changes as a consequence of our experiences. Synaptic plasticity—the biological process by which brain activity leads to long-term changes in synaptic connections—is thought to be central to learning and memory. However, little is known about how this process shapes the specialization of biological neural networks, such as the neocortex. The objective of the present work will be to devise, implement and study data-driven biophysical models of synaptic and structural plasticity for the formation of functional neocortical networks. This project will leverage the Blue Brain Project data-driven reconstruction of a neocortical microcircuit [1], and augment it with data-driven biophysical calcium-based models of synaptic and structural plasticity. The specific objective of this PhD project will be to implement and constrain models of structural plasticity, and study the formation of assemblies, and emergent structure-function relationships in the presence of structured input. The prospective student will join an ongoing collaboration including international experts in biophysical modeling of plasticity and dendrites, topological analysis of network structure, and optimization of neural simulations for large supercomputers. A significant allocation of computing time on a large HPC system will be at the disposal of this project. [1] Markram, H., Muller, E., Ramaswamy, S., Reimann, M. et al. Reconstruction and Simulation of Neocortical Microcircuitry. Cell 163:2, 456-495 (2015). Key external collaborators: Dr. Michael Graupner (CNRS, Université Paris Descartes), Prof. Idan Segev (Hebrew University Jerusalem) This project is offered in the context of the EPFL Doctoral School in Neuroscience (EDNE). Please visit http://phd.epfl.ch/neuroscience-openings for further details, and information on how to apply. Application Deadline: Nov 15th, 2016. For further details on the project contact: Dr. Eilif Muller <eilif.mueller(a)epfl.ch> ------------- Dr. Eilif Muller Section Manager - In Silico Neuroscience - Experimentation EPFL - Blue Brain Project Biotech Campus Chemin des Mines 9 1202 Geneva Switzerland Tel: +41 21 693 0698 Fax: +41 21 693 5350 www: http://bluebrain.epfl.ch/page-77926-en.html www: http://neuralensemble.org/people/eilifmuller

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Fully funded postdoc position at the University of Geneva
by Jolivet, Renaud Nov. 1, 2016

Nov. 1, 2016

The University of Geneva seeks one postdoc in computational neuroscience to investigate the relation between information transfer at synapses and in neural networks, and concomitant energy consumption. The starting date is May 2017. This position is fully funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation for 24 months. Initial appointment is for one year. Research will be conducted in the medical physics group of the physics section at the University of Geneva, under the supervision of Prof. Renaud Jolivet. * Summary Information transmission in the brain is energetically expensive, yet has to satisfy demands of speed and signal-to-noise reliability. We have recently shown that the strong retinogeniculate synapse relaying information from the retina to the thalamus resolves these competing constraints by maximizing energetic efficiency when transferring information. In their physiological state, these synapses are not set to transmit the maximum amount of information possible: information transmission increases when larger excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) are injected into the postsynaptic thalamic neuron. However, EPSCs that are larger or smaller than physiological EPSCs decrease the information transmitted per energy used. The physiological EPSC size therefore maximizes energy efficiency rather than pure information transfer across the synapse. In other words, the retinogeniculate synapse trades information for energy savings (http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2015.10.063; http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2012.08.019) These findings suggest maximization of information transmission per energy used as a design principle in the brain. However, it is unclear how broadly this principle applies. Whether energy efficiency at excitatory synapses is a special property of strong relay synapses, or a more general principle also governing synaptic inputs that contribute more weakly to determining the output of the postsynaptic cell is an open question. These findings also raise the question of what mechanisms are in effect in order to achieve energetic efficiency of information transfer at synapses. This project will address these questions using information theory and simulations of biologically validated neuron models. Applicants must imperatively be self-sufficient programmers (MATLAB preferred) and have a strong background in computational neuroscience. They should be familiar with several of the following topics: information theory, Hodgkin-Huxley models, the NEURON simulation environment, signal processing, models of synaptic plasticity, models of neural networks. Please contact renaud.jolivet(a)unige.ch<mailto:renaud.jolivet@unige.ch> for additional information. * About the University of Geneva (UNIGE) UNIGE is a generalist French-speaking university located in Geneva, Switzerland. The QS World University Rankings 2016 and Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2016/17 respectively rank UNIGE as 95th and 131st worldwide. It ranks 41st worldwide for science (Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities in Natural Sciences and Mathematics 2016). It is Switzerland’s second largest university with more than 17000 students of 150 different nationalities and about 4000 researchers of 113 nationalities, who study and work in 9 different faculties. UNIGE trains a large number of PhD students and postdocs in neuroscience. The various research and teaching activities are listed at http://neurocenter.unige.ch/ and at https://www.unil.ch/ln/en/home.html. UNIGE is also developing with other institutions a new campus in Geneva (http://www.campusbiotech.ch/en/) focusing heavily on neuroscience and translational research. Geneva is at the heart of a conurbation with more than 1.25 million inhabitants. It is a global city, a financial center, and worldwide center for diplomacy and research. It has one of the highest quality of life in the world. It offers varied cultural activities and outdoor opportunities being located at one extremity of Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Europe, on the western doorstep of the Alps. The University of Geneva offers competitive salaries and conditions at all levels in a young, dynamic, and multicultural environment. It is an equal opportunity employer and women are encouraged to apply. The official language of the laboratory is English. * How to apply Please send an e-mail to renaud.jolivet(a)unige.ch<mailto:renaud.jolivet@unige.ch> with your resume, list of publications, a one-page statement describing your research interests and career plan, and the names of at least three references. — Prof. Renaud Jolivet CERN, Experimental Physics Department & University of Geneva, Physics Section +41 22 767 24 70 (CERN) +41 22 379 62 75 (UNIGE) +41 79 830 21 29 (mobile) renaud.blaise.jolivet(a)cern.ch<mailto:renaud.blaise.jolivet@cern.ch> https://sites.google.com/site/renaudjolivet/

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PhD position in cognitive modeling
by Angela Yu Oct. 31, 2016

Oct. 31, 2016

Applications are invited from highly motivated students to conduct PhD research in the Computational & Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, led by Angela Yu, at University of California, San Diego. Candidates must have a strong background in mathematics and/or machine learning, and be committed to applying rigorous mathematical tools to modeling cognitive and neural processes. Experience or interest in carrying out human behavioral experiments (either in person or on Amazon M-Turk) and/or collaborating with other human/animal neuroscience laboratories is also desirable. Current research in the lab ranges across cognitive control, decision-making, visual search, active learning, social cognition, and machine learning. Dr. Yu's group is situated within the Cognitive Science department of UCSD, but Dr. Yu advises students not only from the Cognitive Science, but also from Computer Science & Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Neurosciences PhD programs. Interested students should apply directly to one or more of the PhD programs, and indicate Dr. Yu as a potential research advisor in the research statement. They are also encouraged to email Dr. Yu directly to explain why they think their interests/background are a good fit for working with Dr. Yu. ------------------------------------- Angela J. Yu Associate Professor UCSD Cognitive Science www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu <http://www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu> —————————————————— ----------------------------------- Angela J. Yu Associate Professor UCSD Cognitive Science 858-822-3317 www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu -----------------------------------

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Postdoc position in computational modeling
by Angela Yu Oct. 28, 2016

Oct. 28, 2016

Applications are invited from highly motivated researchers for a postdoctoral position immediately available in the Computational & Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, led by Angela Yu, at University of California, San Diego. Candidates must have a strong background in mathematics and/or machine learning, and be committed to applying rigorous mathematical tools to modeling cognitive and neural processes. Experience or interest in carrying out human behavioral experiments (either in person or on Amazon M-Turk) and/or collaborating with other human/animal neuroscience laboratories is also desirable. Current research in the lab ranges across cognitive control, decision-making, visual search, active learning, social cognition, and machine learning. Accepted candidate would have great latitude in determining own research projects. Dr. Yu's lab is situated within the Cognitive Science department of UCSD, and affiliated with the Computer Science Department, Electrical Engineering Department, Neurosciences Graduate Program, and the Institute of Neural Computation. There are ample opportunities for collaborations with related groups across the UCSD main campus, the medical school, and the Salk Institute. Interested candidates should send a research statement, along with a CV including publications, to Dr. Angela Yu (ajyu(a)ucsd.edu <mailto:ajyu@ucsd.edu>). Candidates are invited to explain in detail how their own research interests dovetail that of Dr. Yu's lab. Two or more letters of references should be sent directly to Dr. Yu. Dr. Yu will be interviewing candidates at the Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting in San Diego, November 12-16, 2016. ------------------------------------- Angela J. Yu Associate Professor UCSD Cognitive Science www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu -------------------------------------

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MIT postdoc position in AI/neuroscience/physics
by Max Tegmark Oct. 27, 2016

Oct. 27, 2016

The MIT Physics Department invites applications for a postdoctoral research position to work with Professor Max Tegmark on the physics of intelligence, in partnership with Tomaso Poggio, Edward Boyden, Gabriel Kreiman and others associated with the Center for Brains, Minds & Machines (https://cbmm.mit.edu/about/people) and with a network of other collaborators. Research interests at the interface of theoretical physics, artificial intelligence and computational neuroscience are a strong plus. Candidates interested in exploring ways to test theories with state-of-the-art data and simulations are particularly welcome. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief description of research interests and goals and should arrange for three letters of recommendation to be uploaded to this site by December 1, 2016. A Ph.D. in physics or physics-related discipline, such as AI or computational neuroscience, is required by the start of employment. Any inquiries should be sent to tegmark(a)mit.edu. MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.

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PhD position: Dimension reduction for neural networks
by Laing, Carlo Oct. 25, 2016

Oct. 25, 2016

Funding is available for a PhD position in "Dimension reduction for neural networks" at Massey University (Auckland, New Zealand). Project description: An essential tool in the study of complex networks is dimension reduction, i.e. the discovery and then computational use of a small number of collective variables which completely describe the behaviour of the network to within some accuracy. Having such a reduced description can allow the drastic acceleration of computational tasks for modelling and predicting network behaviour, and provides a mechanism for discovering which details of a network are essential in determining its behaviour. This project involves the development of reduced models of networks of model neurons, in order to better understand their possible dynamics. An important aspect will involve investigating the role of heterogeneity (both in terms of a network's structure, and the intrinsic dynamics of a single neuron) in the networks' behaviour. The student should have the equivalent of an MSc in Mathematics (or other highly mathematical field such as Physics). A good knowledge of nonlinear dynamics and scientific programming is an advantage; no knowledge of neuroscience is assumed. The scholarship consists of a stipend of NZ$27,500 per year (tax free) plus applicable student fees for 3 years. Applicants must fulfil the PhD eligibility conditions of Massey University. Applicants should send a copy of their curriculum vitae, a statement of interest and the names and contact details of two (2) referees to Associate Professor Carlo Laing (E-mail: c.r.laing(a)massey.ac.nz<mailto:c.r.laing@massey.ac.nz>) Webpage: http://www.massey.ac.nz/~crlaing/ -- Associate 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/

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PhD position in 'New insights into ADHD through behavioural and modelling studies'
by Eirini Mavritsaki Oct. 25, 2016

Oct. 25, 2016

Dear comp-neuro team, I was wondering if you could please forward the information below to your list about a new PhD position in our lab for February 2017 start. Kind regards, Eirini Mavritsaki PhD available for February 2017 start in 'New insights into ADHD through behavioural and modelling studies' Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD studentship within the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Business Law and Social Sciences, Birmingham City University. Applicants need to demonstrate ability and commitment, including excellent communications skills in written and spoken English. Project Synopsis: There are many limitations on the behaviour of complex neural systems, but one primary constraint is to filter incoming input in order that actions can be programmed to behaviourally relevant stimuli. This is the limit of 'attention'. A major challenge for current-day researchers is to understand how (and why) these limitations arise, especially in conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) where the attentional system is dysfunctional. Our application's main aims is to access differences in visual attention between children diagnosed with ADHD and typically functioning children and the role of diet in this. This Ph.D. thesis aims to do this using a novel interdisciplinary approach, behavioural and computational modelling study together with a food diary. The Ph.D. is part of a bigger research project that is in collaboration with Dr Chrysavgi Tsakona in Russell Hall Hospital. The successful applicant will join the newly-established Centre for Applied Psychological Research (CAP Research) within the Department of Psychology at Birmingham City University. This centre is part of a vibrant and rapidly expanding research community, which offers applicants with an excellent opportunity to develop their research career. The applicant has the opportunity to have teaching experience, to participate to research seminars and to co-supervise undergraduate projects. Candidate Qualification and Specifications: Essential ? The applicant should hold a good undergraduate honours degree (First or 2:1) in psychology or a related social sciences subject. ? A demonstrated understanding of research methods is essential (as evidenced by degree transcript grades for research methods and dissertation modules). ? The applicant will be expected to undertake and pass Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. ? The applicant should enjoy working with children. ? The applicant should have experience in computational modelling. Desirable ? A Masters' degree in research methods, psychology or a related social sciences subject. ? Work experience (voluntary or paid) in schools or experience working with children. ? Experience in C++ and/or Matlab. ? Access to a car and a valid driving licence. For more information please contact Dr Eirini Mavritsaki (Eirini.mavritsaki(a)bcu.ac.uk) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Eirini Mavritsaki, Ph.D., CPsychol Senior Lecturer in Cognitive Psychology and Director of Research for the School of Social Sciences Department of Psychology Faculty of Business Law and Social Sciences Birmingham City University The Curzon Building 4 Cardigan Street Birmingham B4 7BD eirini.mavritsaki(a)bcu.ac.uk<mailto:eirini.mavritsaki@bcu.ac.uk> 0121 331 6361 Special Issue in Frontiers 'Neuropsychology through the lenses of computational modelling' http://fron.tiers.in/go/r2e3M4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Onsite interviews at SfN for Neural Data Analytics - Post Docs, Staff Scientists and Electrical Engineers
by Platt, Jo Ann Oct. 24, 2016

Oct. 24, 2016

Join our team to revolutionize medicine. The Center for Bioelectronic Medicine at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is conducting interviews at the 2016 Neuroscience Meeting in San Diego for multiple positions in the fields of machine learning, neural engineering, neural decoding and data analytics, microfabrication, bioelectronics and biosensing, and neurophysiology. Each successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to determine the nature of neural control over molecular, cellular and organ functions of the body, the parts of the brain that regulate those nerves, and the signals that the brain receives to monitor cell and organ function. The candidates will work on projects involving development of novel signal processing and machine learning methods to gain insights into decoding and encoding mechanisms of the brain and peripheral nerves, reinforcement learning approaches used to optimize neural stimulation, techniques to directionally transmit or receive neural signals and numerical and biophysical modeling of neural circuits. Submit your resume to japlatt(a)northwell.edu for consideration and to arrange an onsite interview. Jo Ann Platt The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Cell: (415) 265-0441 350 Community Drive Manhasset, NY 11030 The information contained in this electronic e-mail transmission and any attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom or to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this communication is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this communication and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by telephone and electronic mail, and delete the original communication and any attachment from any computer, server or other electronic recording or storage device or medium. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney-client, physician-patient or other privilege.

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NIH BRAIN THEORIES--POSTDOCTORAL POSITION
by Stephen Jose Hanson Oct. 24, 2016

Oct. 24, 2016

NIH Post-doctoral Fellowship in BRAIN Initiative: Theories, Models and Methods for Analysis of Complex Data from the Brain Applications for an NIH-funded post-doctoral position are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Stephen José Hanson’s in the Department of Psychology and in RUBIC (Rutgers Brain Imaging Center) at Rutgers University, Newark, N.J. USA. The focus of research and training is in the area of computational neuroscience, and the development of brain network models based on graphical model selection using dynamical search procedures and the modeling of brain signals arising from neuroimaging data (e.g. fMRI). These projects will be performed in the lab of Dr. Hanson and in conjunction with Dr. Glymour’s (CMU) causal discovery research group. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computation, statistics, probability theory, multivariate analysis and signal processing. Programming skill sets ( e.g., C++, R, Matlab, Debian, python) would be key to a successful candidate. Additionally, having background in neuroscience, neuroimaging or brain science more generally would be important to a successful application. This is a 2 year position with a 3 rd year possible. Starting date is flexible and with earliest start by December 1. Applications will be accepted until a candidate is hired. Inquiries should be addressed to Stephen José Hanson (jose(a)rubic.rutger s.edu). Please also send applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees to jose(a)rubic.rutgers.edu. Relevant publications include: Ramsey J., Hanson S.J. Hanson C., Halchenko Y.O., Poldrack R.A., & Glymour C. (2010). Six problems for causal inference from fMRI. Neuroimage, 49, 1545-1558. Hanson, C., Hanson, S.J., Ramsey, J. & Glymour, C. (2013) Atypical effective connectivity of social brain networks in individuals with autism. J. Brain Connect. 3(6):578-89. Hanson, S. J. & Halchenko, Y. O. (2008). Brain reading using full brain support vector machines for object recognition: there is no face- identification area. Neural Computation, 20, 486-503 Poldrack, R.A., Halchenko, Y., & Hanson, S.J. (2010). Decoding the large-scale structure of brain function by classifying mental states across individuals. Psychological Science, 20, 1364-1372 Ramsey, J., Glymour, M., Sanchez-Romero, R. and Glymour, C. (in Press) A million variables and more: The fa st greedy search algorithm for learning high dimensional graphical causal models, with an application to functional magnetic resonance images. International Journal of Data Science and Analytics. Rutgers is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

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PhD position in Oxford
by Rafal Bogacz Oct. 24, 2016

Oct. 24, 2016

Dear Colleagues, Applications are invited from UK or EU residents for doctoral studies in computational neuroscience, to start in October 2017. The project will be supervised by Rafal Bogacz and will be carried out within the interdisciplinary team of the MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit. The research can focus on areas investigated by Rafal Bogacz's Group, including: - models of decision making in the basal ganglia - optimising deep brain stimulation - predictive coding models of the cortex Candidates must have a very strong mathematical or computational background and an excellent undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or neuroscience). An undergraduate 1st class or upper 2nd class degree (or equivalent grade) is required for graduate entry into Oxford. The minimum standards for English apply for applicants. This PhD (DPhil) studentship is funded by the Medical Research Council. To be eligible for a full award (stipend in addition to university/college fees) a student must have settled status in the UK, and must have been ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK for three years prior to the start of the studentship. For further details about student eligibility requirements for full and fees-only awards, please see: http://www.mrc.ac.uk/skills-careers/studentships/studentship-guidance/stude… Formal applications must be made via the University online application system. The relevant course code is: Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Neurosciences – RD_CU1. In the covering letter, please describe the research you would like to conduct and clarify how your experience and skills would help you in that work. The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 13th January 2017. Best wishes, Rafal

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Postdoctoral position in theoretical neuroscience - machine learning (RIKEN-BSI Japan)
by Andrea Benucci Oct. 19, 2016

Oct. 19, 2016

RIKEN Brain Science Institute - Japan Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behavior www.benuccilab.net (Laboratory Head: Andrea Benucci) Research field Our laboratory studies the neural basis of sensory processing and decision-making in mice trained in behavioral tasks. We do so using a combination of computational and experimental approaches (electrophysiology, fluorescence imaging, and optogenetics). Job title and description: Postdoctoral positions The project will focus on using theoretical approaches based on machine learning (specifically on RNN) to capture key computational aspects of cortical processing in large neuronal populations. This work will be done in close collaboration with experimentalists to jointly design new experimental paradigms based on the theoretical simulations. Qualifications We seek exceptional candidates with a strong computational background, especially in the field of recurrent neural network simulations. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., Computational Neuroscience, Computer Science, Math, Physics). Proficiency in programming (e.g., MATLAB, C++) is necessary. The ideal candidate will be interested in engaging in experimental work as well. Work location The Neural Circuits and Behavior Team is located at RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan. The institute is about 15 min away from the main Tokyo metropolitan area by train. Salary and benefits This is a funded position but applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for external funds. The employment contract is renewable on a yearly basis based on performance evaluation up to seven years from the start date. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Social insurance will be applied. Free, mandatory membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai) will be provided. These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations. RIKEN is promoting a Gender Equity Program by taking various measures to create a workplace where both men and women are able to give full rein to their talents and abilities. http://www.riken.go.jp/en/careers/working-at-riken/benefits/ Application and required documents Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Candidates should provide (1) cover letter, (2) CV and bibliography, (3) the names and contact information of three references (including the current supervisor, if available) with a brief description of your relationship to each reference. Send application to: andrea(a)benuccilab.net Selection process Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to RIKEN-BSI for an in-person interview. --

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BrainModes conference - Brussels, Dec 1 and 2 - final call for abstracts
by Daniele Marinazzo Oct. 17, 2016

Oct. 17, 2016

Dear all Just a reminder and the final call for submitting an abstract for the poster presentation which will take place during the dinner at the BrainModes conference, that this year we will organize in Brussels, at the Royal Flemish Academy of Sciences (KVAB) on* Dec 1 and 2*. BrainModes (www.brainmodes.org) is an annual conference in which methods and models to interpret brain activity, and their applications are discussed. This year the theme will be: Coordinated brain activity: foundations and applications. We are proud of the lineup of speakers this year, including top experts in the field of computational, cognitive and clinical neuroscience. There will be also a workshop organized in Ghent on November 30 on methodological issues and demonstrations. The complete program, the info on registration, abstract submission and location are here http://www.da.ugent.be/brainmodes Please spread this information within your network of students and colleagues, and looking forward to see you. -- Daniele Marinazzo -- Department of Data Analysis Faculty of Psychology and Pedagogical Sciences, Ghent University Henri Dunantlaan 1, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium +32 (0) 9 264 6375 <http://www.da.ugent.be/>http://users.ugent.be/~dmarinaz/ https://twitter.com/dan_marinazzo BRAINMODES 2016 CONFERENCE http://www.da.ugent.be/brainmodes http://helpdesk.ugent.be/e-maildisclaimer.php

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Two postdoctoral positions at Kyoto U: Brain imaging and simulation
by Hidetoshi Urakubo Oct. 15, 2016

Oct. 15, 2016

Dear all, Integrated Systems Biology Lab at Kyoto U (Japan) invites applications for two post-doc positions. We look forward to your applications and recommendations. The full advertisement is available below. On behalf of Prof. Shin Ishii Hidetoshi Urakubo ============================================== Shin Ishii Lab, Dep Sys Sci, Grad Sch Info, Kyoto U Yoshida-Honmachi 36-1, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501 Japan Phone: +81-75-753-4908 Fax: +81-75-753-4907 Email: urakubo-h(a)sys.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp ============================================== 1. Reconstruction and simulation of neural circuits in the brain We invite applications for a post-doc researcher in the areas of 3D image processing, computational neuroscience, and/or neurophysiology. A new collaborative project with U Tokyo has been launched for large-scale 3D imaging of neural networks and their reconstruction/simulation. Thus, the applicant will firstly analyze microscopic 3D images to identify biological neuronal networks in collaboration with Kasai-lab in U Tokyo (http://www.bm2.m.u-tokyo.ac.jp/english/index.html) The project is a part of “Synaptic optogenetics for memory structures”, which is founded by Japan Science and Technology Agency. 2. AI and brain simulation We are seeking a highly motivated post-doc researcher in artificial intelligence (including deep neural networks), brain simulation, and/or high performance computing (HPC). Join us in the "post peta-flops computing" project, a government funded project with the goal of using the K supercomputer and its successor to (1) develop HPC-based frameworks for large-scale neural image processing and to (2) build an innovative and large-scale artificial intelligence that mimics brain’s information processing. For both positions, 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. You will participate in the project with our tenure track and post-doc researchers from various backgrounds including computational neuroscience, systems biology, bioinformatics, mathematical engineering, and machine learning. Our laboratory is also collaborating on daily basis 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. [Job title and Job description] Title: Full-time Researcher / Full-time Research Engineer Begin Date: 1. April 1st 2017 (negotiable) 2. November 1st 2016 (negotiable) Location: Yoshida-Honmachi 36-1, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto-city, Japan. 606-8501 Contract: Annually renewed based on evaluation. 1. Up to 5 years 2. Up to 3 years Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience. Based on Kyoto University’s provision for researchers. Benefits:　Standard social insurance, Days off (weekends, public holidays, End of the year and the New Year, Kyoto University Foundation Day, summer vacation), Sick leave Other miscellaneous provisions are in accordance with Kyoto U regulations. [Application and required documents] Please send the following five materials to the address below, either in printed or electronic form: 1. Complete CV (including technical skills [programming languages, platforms, systems, etc] and corresponding achievements that are relevant to our project) 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 Ph.D. (or be near the completion of the degree). - have strong motivations and ambitions to participate in the research above. [Number of openings] Two [Deadline for application] December 18th 2016 (will remain open if positions are not filled) [Application] Applications and/or any questions should be sent via mail or e-mail to: Integrated Systems Biology Laboratory (Shin Ishii-lab), Graduate School of Informatics, Engineering Bldg #1, Kyoto University Yoshida-honmachi, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan Email: kanae [at] sys.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp http://ishiilab.jp/kyoto/en/ Phone: +81-75-753-4908 Fax: +81-75-753-4907

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Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Computer Science (Machine Learning / Biocomputation) (Closing Date 21 October)
by Steuber, Volker Oct. 14, 2016

Oct. 14, 2016

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Computer Science (Machine Learning / Biocomputation) School of Computer Science University of Hertfordshire, UK Salary £32,004 to £48,327 per annum depending on qualifications and experience Full time position working 37 hours per week (1.0 FTE) Closing date 21 October 2016 Applications are invited for a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in the School of Computer Science, University of Hertfordshire. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the School's teaching and curriculum development activities, and to strengthen its research activities. We are looking to recruit specifically a computer scientist with background in machine learning or data science related to biocomputation (including computational neuroscience). By Data Science we broadly mean the extraction of meaning from large quantities of data. The successful candidate will also have the flexibility to teach across mainstream topics in computer science. The School has an international reputation for teaching and research, with 58 academic staff, 20 adjunct lecturer staff, and 65 research students and postdoctoral research staff. With a history going back to 1958, the School teaches one of the largest cohorts of undergraduate students in the UK, and also delivers a thriving online computer science degree programme. The person appointed will be expected to contribute to learning and teaching relevant to core computer science topics, participate in curriculum review and development, design and develop new modules, and supervise student projects at all levels. The appointee will strengthen the research culture in the School by pursuing research as part of a larger research team, seeking external funding, publishing papers, supervising research students, and participating in commercial activity as appropriate. Preference will be given to candidates who can contribute to teaching and research as outlined above. Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, possess excellent communication skills in English and the ability to teach at undergraduate and postgraduate level. It is desirable that candidates have a track record of publication, external research funding, collaboration across disciplines, experience of different types of assessment and higher education quality assurance. They should also have the ability to play a role in the routine running of the School of Computer Science. Applications should be made through http://www.herts.ac.uk/contact-us/jobs-and-vacancies/academic-vacancies (reference 014050). Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Volker Steuber (Head of the Biocomputation Research Group, v.steuber(a)herts.ac.uk) or Professor William Clocksin (Dean of School, w.clocksin(a)herts.ac.uk) Please note that applications sent directly to these email addresses will not be accepted. We are committed to providing a supportive environment. The university also provides an onsite childcare facility and child-centred holiday clubs. The University is required to meet UKVI visa regulations. Applicants who do not currently have the right to work in the UK will have to satisfy UKVI regulations before they can be appointed. ?

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High Performance Computing Workshop at SFN 2016
by Ted Carnevale Oct. 13, 2016

Oct. 13, 2016

A few seats remain available in the workshop Using the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) for Parallel Simulations Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 AM to noon which we are presenting in downtown San Diego as a satellite to this year's SFN meeting. This workshop will show you how to use this NSF-supported resource in your computationally-intensive modeling and data analysis projects. It will also feature presentations from several research teams about how they are using NSG in their own research. The registration fee is $25, but if you have already signed up for the NEURON course on Friday, Nov. 11, you may register for the NSG workshop for only $15. For a description of the workshop and its application form, see http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2016/nsg2016.html The registration deadline is Friday Oct. 28. --Ted

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Postdoctoral researcher to study cause-effect power of neural systems across spatiotemporal scale
by Hill Sean Oct. 13, 2016

Oct. 13, 2016

Postdoctoral position in the Laboratory for the Neural Basis of Brain States Prof. Sean Hill, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Campus Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland The Laboratory for the Neural Basis of Brain States (LNBBS), part of the Blue Brain Project, focuses on understanding cortical and thalamocortical structure and function and the relationship to states of the brain including wakefulness, sleep and anesthesia. LNBBS is part of the EPFL Blue Brain Project (BBP), a Swiss national brain initiative situated on the Campus Biotech in Geneva, Switzerland, applies advanced neuroinformatics, data analytics, high-performance computing infrastructure and simulation-based approaches to the challenge of understanding the structure and function of the mammalian brain in health and disease. A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Prof. Sean Hill (EPFL, http://www.hill-lab.org : http://bluebrain.epfl.ch) in collaboration with the Prof. Giulio Tononi (Wisconsin Institute for Sleep and Consciousness, www.integratedinformationtheory.org ) to study cause-effect power of neural systems across spatiotemporal scales. Immediate funding is available for a project using the framework of integrated information theory [1] to study foundational questions regarding causation and emergence in a detailed model of a cortical column [2]. The model is a comprehensive, multi-scale digital reconstruction of rat somatosensory microcircuitry, consisting of over 31,000 biophysically detailed multi-compartment neurons with 55 layer-specific morphological and 207 morpho-electrical neuron subtypes. Causal properties are explored at micro scales and at multiple macro scales by black-boxing the model in various ways and applying measures of integrated information to the resulting macro level systems [1, 3]. Candidates are expected to have strong training in a discipline such as theoretical biology/neuroscience, physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. Experience in information theory, complex systems, and neural modelling software (e.g. Neuron, NEST) are a plus. Programming experience is required (knowledge of MATLAB, Python, and/or C++ is of advantage). Appointments are for an initial 1-year renewable contract, starting as soon as possible or until the position is filled. Candidates should send a CV, brief statement of previous research and future research interests, and email addresses and phone numbers of three references to: Sean Hill, (sean.hill(a)epfl.ch) For more information, contact Sean Hill (sean.hill(a)epfl.ch) or Giulio Tononi (gtononi(a)wisc.edu) [1] Tononi G, Boly M, Massimini M, and Koch C. Integrated information theory: from consciousness to its physical substrate. Nature Reviews Neuroscience (2016). [2] Markram et al. Reconstruction and Simulation of Neocortical Microcircuitry. Cell. 2015 Oct 8;163(2):456-92. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.09.029. [3] Marshall W, Albantakis L, Tononi G (2016) Black-boxing and cause-effect power. arXiv:1608.03461 [q-bio.NC]

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Two NIH BRAIN Initiative funded computational postdoctoral positions available: Brown University and Mass. General Hospital
by Stephanie Jones Oct. 12, 2016

Oct. 12, 2016

Hello, Can you please post the following ad to the compneuro mailing list? Thank you, Stephanie Two NIH BRAIN Initiative funded computational postdoctoral positions available: Brown University and Mass. General Hospital The field of neuroscience is experiencing unprecedented growth in the ability to record from and manipulate brain circuits in humans and in animal models. MEG/ EEG are the leading methods to non-invasively record human neural dynamics with millisecond temporal resolution. However, it is still extremely difficult to interpret the underlying cellular and circuit level generators of these ‘macro-scale’ signals without simultaneous invasive recordings. Supported by a BRAIN Initiative grant through NIH we have started a collaborative project between Brown University, Yale University and Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) to develop and a new software tool for circuit level interpretation of human brain activity measured with MEG/EEG. We are hiring two post-docs to join our team. A three-year postdoctoral position at Brown University PI: Dr. Stephanie Jones contact: Stephanie_Jones(a)brown.edu A three-year postdoctoral position at Massachusetts General Hospital PI: Dr. Matti Hämäläinen contact: msh(a)nmr.mgh.harvard.edu The post-docs hired will work among a team of researcher at Brown University, MGH, and Yale University on the design and implementation of a user-friendly, GUI-driven, open-source model of neocortical circuitry for the interpretation of non-invasively measured human brain activity. The neural model will be integrated into existing source localization software (MNE-Python) so that researchers can study the location, time course, and neural mechanisms of their human brain imaging data all in one package. Additionally, the post-docs will work with several test case groups to apply the model in a variety of tasks and clinical conditions. Interested candidates must have experience in Python programming and software engineering. The postdoc at Brown will work more on the computational modeling aspect of the software while the post doc at MGH will concentrate on the integration of MEG/EEG source modeling with computational neural modeling. Candidates with knowledge in computational modeling using NEURON and/or source localization methods will be given preference. Please send a CV, statement of research interests, and three letters of recommendation to contact addresses listed above. ******************************************* Stephanie R. Jones, PhD Associate Research Professor Brown University Department of Neuroscience Stephanie_Jones(a)Brown.edu https://www.brown.edu/research/labs/jones/

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PhD Position in Computational Cognitive Neuroscience at FIU in Miami
by Fabián Soto Oct. 10, 2016

Oct. 10, 2016

The Computational Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at FIU in Miami (PI Dr. Fabian Soto) is looking for a doctoral student to start in the Fall of 2017. The student will work in the development of new methods to test independent processing of stimulus dimensions in the brain, within a framework that combines general recognition theory (a multidimensional version of signal detection theory) and population encoding models. The developed methods will be applied to the analysis of EEG and fMRI studies on object categorization. Our lab's research focuses on understanding the interplay between learning and visual processes in object categorization. We use a combination of behavioral, computational, and brain imaging techniques. FIU is classified as an R1 (highest research activity) institution by the Carnegie Foundation. It is Florida’s fastest growing public research university, the fourth largest university in the US, and one of the nation’s largest hispanic-serving institutions. FIU has recently established a state-of-the-art neuroimaging center (the Cognitive Neuroscience and Imaging Center), which hosts a research-dedicated 3T Siemens MAGNETOM Prisma MRI scanner and a fully equipped mock scanner for pre-scan and movement training. If you know of any potentially interested candidates with a broad scientific background who are interested in neuroimaging, psychology, and computational modeling, please have them contact Dr. Fabian Soto at fabian.soto(a)fiu.edu. More information about FIU’s Cognitive Neuroscience doctoral program in Psychology is available at http://cn.fiu.edu. The deadline for application is December 1st of 2016. -- Fabian A. Soto Assistant Professor Department of Psychology Florida International University Modesto A. Maidique Campus 11200 SW 8th St, AHC4 460 Miami, FL 33199 Phone: 305-348-8423 Fax: 305-348-6670 Email: fabian.soto(a)fiu.edu

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Postdoc in Warsaw - kernel-based method of electrophysiological source imaging
by Daniel Wójcik Oct. 10, 2016

Oct. 10, 2016

https://neuroinflab.wordpress.com/jobs/ POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE: kESI – kernel-based method of electrophysiological source imaging The Neuroinformatics Laboratory (https://neuroinflab.wordpress.com/) at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology (http://www.nencki.gov.pl) invites applications for a postdoctoral position (36 months). The goal of the project is to develop, implement and investigate a new technique of source localization of specific events in neural activity, such as a seizure, from multimodal imaging data, including ECoG (strip and grid electrodes), depth electrophysiological recordings, and MRI data from humans. The method will be validated with ground truth model data and tested on clinical data obtained from epilepsy patients. The fellow will build on already existing tools and techniques developed in the lab, see especially Potworowski et al. 2012 and Ness et al. 2015. The ideal candidate will have a strong computational background, experience in numerical solutions of PDEs, electrodynamics, computational neuroscience, or brain imaging. We can only accept candidates 0 to 7 years after reception of PhD. To apply or ask for further information send email to d.wojcik(a)nencki.gov.pl. Applications should include a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees. We are accepting applications until the position is filled. -- Prof. Daniel K. Wojcik Laboratory of Neuroinformatics, Head PhD Studies, Head Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology 3 Pasteur St, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland tel: (+48 22) 5892348 fax: (+48 22) 8225342 skype: danek8317 http://dwojcik.pl/ http://neuroinflab.wordpress.com/ http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0812-9872

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RAHA 2016 - Invitation and late Breaking Poster Session
by Dr. Shyam Diwakar Oct. 8, 2016

Oct. 8, 2016

Dear Colleagues, Apologies for cross-posting. Amrita University, India at its backwater-nestled campus in Kollam, Kerala is set for RAHA 2016 - International Conference on Robotics and automation for Humanitarian Applications to be held from December 18-20, 2016. The organizers are calling in for late-breaking posters in robotics, neurorobotics, societal and humanitarian applications and related topics. We welcome you to submit content and showcase new studies in the fields of robotics and related topics. RAHA 2016 brings together top researchers, practitioners, and experts from the field of robotics for humanitarian applications. The conference will host 6 plenary and 16 keynote speakers from top universities and industry. Poster session Details: http://raha2016.org/call-for-abstracts-late-breaking-posters Conference website: http://raha2016.org Speakers: http://raha2016.org/speakers I look forward to meeting you in December. Shyam -- Shyam Diwakar, Ph.D. Amrita University http://www.amrita.edu/compneuro Disclaimer : The information transmitted in this email, including attachments, is intended only for the person(s) or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. Any views expressed in any message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Amrita University. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and destroy any copies of this information.

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Please post to the comp-neuro list
by McCormick, David Oct. 7, 2016

Oct. 7, 2016

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience The Swartz Center in Theoretical Neurobiology at Yale University invites applications for two postdoctoral positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience. We seek exceptional candidates with experience in computational and/or quantitative neuroscience to collaborate with computational/experimental biologists towards the understanding of the nervous system from the level of synapses to complex networks. The candidate may work in one or more laboratories of Jessica Cardin, Damon Clark, Michael Crair, George Dragoi, Thierry Emonet, Michael Higley, Joe Howard, Alex Kwan, Daeyeol Lee, David McCormick, John Murray, and Steven Zucker (see http://swartz-initiative.medicine.yale.edu<http://swartz-initiative.medicine.yale.edu/>). Candidates must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree. Please send a Curriculum Vitae, selected reprints, and a statement of research plans including the laboratories of interest. All application materials should be sent electronically to the following e-mail address: david.mccormick(a)yale.edu<mailto:david.mccormick@yale.edu>. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with a target date of November 30th, 2016. Positions are available starting January 2017. 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. ----------------------------------------------------------- Thanks! David A. McCormick Professor, Neuroscience | Yale University School of Medicine Dept. Neuroscience 333 Cedar Street | New Haven, CT 06510 | 203.785.5981 www.mccormicklab.org<http://www.mccormicklab.org/> | www.neurobiology.org<http://www.neurobiology.org/>

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"Closed Loop Neuroscience" book release
by ahmed el hady Oct. 7, 2016

Oct. 7, 2016

Dear All, I would like to share with you the exciting news that my edited volume "Closed Loop Neuroscience", has just been published by Academic Press. The following is the link for the book: http://store.elsevier.com/Closed-Loop-Neuroscience/Ahmed-El-Hady/isbn-97801… . This reference book gathers work from across neuroscience, which employs closed loop methodologies, under the umbrella of what can be called “Closed Loop Neuroscience”. The book is built on three axes: theoretical, experimental and philosophical. The contributors come from a myriad of disciplines from physics, mathematics, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy, engineering and computer science. The following is the table of contents: Theoretical Axis 1. Adaptive Bayesian methods for closed-loop neurophysiology 2. Information geometric analysis of neurophysiological data 3. Control theory for closed loop neurophysiology 4. Testing the theory of practopoiesis using closed loops 5. Local field potential analysis for closed loop neuromodulation 6. Online event detection requirements in closed-loop neuroscience 7. Closing Dewey's Circuit 8. Stochastic optimal control of spike times in single neurons 9. Hybrid systems neuroscience 10. Computational Complexity and the Function-Structure-Environment Loop of the Brain 11. Subjective Physics 12. Contextual emergence in neuroscience Experimental Axis 13. Closed loop methodologies for cellular electrophysiology 14. Bidirectional Brain-Machine Interfaces 15. Adaptive brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease 16. Closed loop neuroprosthetics 17. Closed Loop Limbic Neurostimulation 18. Conscious brain-to-brain communication Philosophical Axis 19. Philosophical aspects of closed loop neuroscience 20. Closed Loops in Neuroscience and Computation: What It Means and Why It Matters Your feedback is very important for me so please let me know if you have any comments about it. My email is ahady(a)princeton.edu. I would really appreciate if you recommend the book to your librarian, colleagues and anyone you think might benefit from it. I hope you will enjoy the book , All the best, Ahmed El Hady Dr. Ahmed El Hady Princeton Neuroscience Institute Howard Hughes Medical Institute Washington Road | Princeton, NJ 08544 Tel: +1-609-258-7954 Fax: +1-609-258-1028 Website: http://scholar.princeton.edu/ahmedelhady/home

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Open positions in Theoretical/Computational Neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt
by Gjorgjieva, Julijana Oct. 7, 2016

Oct. 7, 2016

We invite applications for PhD positions and have openings for Master and Bachelor students interested in writing their thesis or doing internships in our group 'Computation in Neural Circuits' at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, Germany. Postdoctoral candidates are also encouraged to inquire for open positions. We use mathematical and computational approaches to study how neurons and the connections between them get organized into circuits that are flexible to learn, yet remain robust to external perturbations. We focus on the emergence of complex properties at the single neuron and circuit level during early development. For example, we study how synaptic plasticity, homeostasis and development of ion channel expression interact to produce functional adult circuits. We are also interested in how these specific properties emerge evolutionarily, shaped by various biophysical constraints. Our work is supported by close experimental collaborations based on different animal models, from rodent to fruit fly, giving us access to individual circuit components. Successful applicants can work on a range of projects including theoretical model development and analytical calculations, numerical simulations, data analysis, and applications to novel datasets from collaborating labs. Applicants should have a strong quantitative background (in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or related fields) and interest in interdisciplinary research. Background in neuroscience is desirable but not required, and some programming experience is necessary. To apply for these positions, please submit the following to comp.neural.circuits(a)gmail.com<mailto:comp.neural.circuits@gmail.com> 1. A curriculum vitae 2. A motivation letter or a description of research interests (please explain your scientific interests, what are you strengths when working on a problem, why our group) 3. Contact details for 2-3 referees 4. A written sample of scientific research, e.g. a manuscript, thesis, or code Our institute also hosts the IMPRS graduate school in 'Neural Circuits' which has an open call for PhD applications with a deadline of December 15, 2016: http://brain.mpg.de/graduate-studies/call.html For more information or informal inquiries, please get in touch! Julijana Gjorgjieva, PhD Group Leader Max Planck Institute for Brain Research Max-von-Laue-Str. 4 60438 Frankfurt/Main, Germany http://brain.mpg.de/research/computation-in-neural-circuits-group.html

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Symposia on Memory, March 6-10 2017, Barcelona
by Alex Roxin Oct. 6, 2016

Oct. 6, 2016

Dear all, I'm happy to announce that registration is open for the week-long series of Symposia on Memory at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica from 6-10 of March, 2017 in Barcelona, Spain. These symposia bring together experimental and theoretical researchers in the neuroscience of memory to present and discuss work on topics such as: sleep, hippocampal function, the molecular basis of memory, synaptic plasticity, spatial learning, human memory, and more. The full list of invited speakers as well as a partial list of abstracts for the invited talks is on the website. A detailed schedule is forthcoming. As a registered participant you can submit an abstract for a contributed talk or a poster. For more information and to register see http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/MATHMEM_Symposia.aspx The symposia are part of the Intensive Research Program (IRP) on the Mathematics of Memory at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica in Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain. The program kick-off is a week-long winter school on the mathematics of memory, the Memory School, from the 16th to the 20th of January, 2017. A preliminary course schedule is available on the website. As a registered participant at the school you can submit an abstract to present a poster. Registration is open! http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/MATHMEM_School.aspx For more information on the IRP on Memory please visit the website below http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/IRP-MATHMEM.aspx best regards, Alex (on behalf of the coordinators: Nicolas Brunel, Sandro Romani and Alex Roxin)

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Call for posters and participation: The 3rd International Symposium on Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics
by amser116 Oct. 6, 2016

Oct. 6, 2016

Call for posters and participation: (apologies for cross-posting) The following international symposium will be held in Osaka, Japan in December 2016. The theme of the symposium is Constructive Developmental Science, which aims at understanding human cognition by means of interdisciplinary approach (e.g., psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and robotics). We will have world-leading researchers from different disciplines as invited speakers and would like to invite you to present a poster of your recent achievement. Please see the symposium homepage for more details: http://www.cnr.osaka-u.ac.jp/?p=1835&lang=en ============================================ The 3rd International Symposium on Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics: Toward Constructive Developmental Science ============================================ Date: Sunday, December 11 – Tuesday, December 13, 2016 Place: Science Hall, Senri Life Science Center, Osaka, Japan Fee: No fee except banquet Registration: Advance registration is required (see the following homepage) Program: http://www.cnr.osaka-u.ac.jp/?p=1835&lang=en Invited speakers: - Rechele Brooks, University of Washington - Helge Ritter, Bielefeld University - Giulio Sandini, Italian Institute of Technology - Shinsuke Shimojo, California Institute of Technology Sponsors: - Institute for Academic Initiatives, Osaka University “Division of Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics” - JSPS Grant-in-Aid for Specially Promoted Research “Constructive Developmental Science Based on Understanding the Process from Neuro-Dynamics to Social Interaction” Best regards, Yukie Nagai, on behalf of the symposium organizers — Yukie Nagai, Ph.D. Specially Appointed Associate Professor, Osaka University Visiting Researcher, Bielefeld University yukie(a)ams.eng.osaka-u.ac.jp http://cnr.ams.eng.osaka-u.ac.jp/~yukie/

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high performance computing with the Neuroscience Gateway Portal
by Ted Carnevale Oct. 6, 2016

Oct. 6, 2016

Space is still available in the workshop on the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG), but if you are interested you should act soon because space is limited and the registration deadline is Friday Oct. 28. The NSG is an NSF-supported resource for neuroscientists whose research involves computationally intensive modeling and/or data analysis. It has a simple, convenient user interface for running simulations and data analysis tasks on HPC hardware, and provides free CPU time. Currently installed software includes Brian, GENESIS, MOOSE, NEST, NEURON, PyNN, Freesurfer, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. The workshop will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 9 AM to noon, just before the start of the 2016 SFN meeting, at a downtown San Diego location near the convention center. The agenda includes instruction on how to use the NSG in your own research, a hands-on exercise, and presentations by research teams about how they are using the NSG for their own high performance computing needs. See http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2016/nsg2016.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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Postdoctoral Fellowship in System Neuroscience
by Majid Mohajerani Oct. 5, 2016

Oct. 5, 2016

A position as Postdoctoral Fellow is now open for an outstanding postdoctoral associate to conduct research in the field of neural network functions at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience at the University of Lethbridge, Alberta. Our goal is to understand cellular and brain system mechanisms of memory and cognitive processing in animal models of healthy brain and memory disorders associated with aging and brain damage. Our research focusses on information coding, neural dynamics and system level neural interactions among diverse brain regions (e.g., hippocampus, prefrontal, retrosplenial, parietal and anterior cingulate cortices). This research will be supported by state-of-the-art facilities including advanced two-photon imaging, microendoscope imaging, wide-field voltage and calcium imaging, and high-density multi-unit electrophysiological recording and optogenetic techniques. The project is a collaborative effort between the research groups of Prof. Bruce McNaughton and Dr. Majid Mohajerani. Successful candidates will join the highly collaborative and interdisciplinary Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience (http://www.uleth.ca/artsci/neuroscience/our-faculty) and Brain Dynamics group (http://lethbridgebraindynamics.com/) which has outstanding research strengths in the areas of learning and memory, decision making, information coding and related diseases such as Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, addiction and stroke. Salary scales will be competitive with NIH standards for postdoctoral researchers. The position will be initially for 1 year with possibility of renewal depending on performance review at the end of the first 9 months. QUALIFICATIONS Preference will be given to candidates with strong quantitative and neuroscience methodological backgrounds such as neural ensemble recording, 2-photon or other in vivo neural activity imaging or in brain mapping. Good verbal and written communication skills are a must. Experience in MATLAB will be an asset. Candidates should be prepared to learn and use cutting-edge physiological, anatomical, and computational techniques, such as virtual reality-based rodent behavioural systems, optogenetic manipulations, and statistical methods for the analysis and modelling of data. HOW TO APPLY Interested applicants should send an email to Dr. McNaughton ( <mailto:bruce.mcnaughton@uleth.ca> bruce.mcnaughton(a)uleth.ca) with cc to Dr. Mohajerani ( <mailto:mohajerani@uleth.ca> mohajerani(a)uleth.ca ) and include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information of three references. Applications are encouraged from women and minorities.

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POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY
by Wilson Truccolo Oct. 4, 2016

Oct. 4, 2016

Applications for post-doctoral positions are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic models of multiscale neural dynamics. Neural data consist of recordings of single-neuron ensembles and local field potentials obtained via multiple intracortical microelectrode arrays implanted in human and non-human primates. Research topics include: (1) Role of neuronal network intrinsic dynamics in neural encoding and decoding. (2) Multiscale neocortical dynamics in human focal epilepsy: seizure transition, propagation and termination. (3) Precursor signatures of focal seizure transitions, prediction and control. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience and modeling of stochastic neural dynamics. Related publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/ <http://dl.dropbox.com/u/983891/Truccolo_home.htm>). Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

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Two PhD Positions for Neural Network Research Using High-density Microelectrode Arrays
by Felix Franke Oct. 4, 2016

Oct. 4, 2016

*PhD Positions for Students with Neurobiology Background or Engineering/Data-analysis Background for Neural Network Research Using High-density Microelectrode Arrays* We are currently seeking PhD students with a neurobiology background, or with an engineering/data analysis background, who will conduct electrophysiological experiments with high-density microelectrode arrays. The students will investigate how information is processed by neuronal networks and by the corresponding individual neurons and subcellular units within active networks. Suitable candidates should either have a background in neurobiology/neuroscience, or interest in evaluating large-scale complex data sets and a background in engineering or computer science. The candidate should be interested in interdisciplinary collaborative work in the area of electronics/neurobiology/data processing. Programming skills (for example Matlab, Python, R, etc.) are required, and knowledge of mathematics, statistics and data analysis methods, or experience in cell culturing and sterile techniques, or - possibly - patch clamp will be an asset. For more information see: https://www.bsse.ethz.ch/bel/open-positions.html -- Felix Franke, PhD ETH Zürich, D-BSSE Bio Engineering Laboratory (BEL) http://www.bsse.ethz.ch/bel

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Deadline extended for Brains and Bits NIPS Workshop
by Konrad Kording Sept. 29, 2016

Sept. 29, 2016

We just expanded the NIPS brains and bits deadline by a week: http://www.stat.ucla.edu/~akfletcher/brainsbits.html Consider joining us if you are interested in neural data science.

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Open PhD Position in Neuroscience at the University of Bremen, Germany
by David Rotermund Sept. 29, 2016

Sept. 29, 2016

The Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Bremen, headed by Prof. Dr. Klaus Pawelzik, offers a PhD position in the field of Complex Adaptive Systems. Successful candidates will join an international research group that is located in the field of Complex Adaptive Systems with a specialization in Econophysics, Psychophysics and Computational Neuroscience. In the latter we work on Attention, Neuronal Dynamics, Learning and Neurotechnology. The project funded by the DFG is entitled: “Dynamic instabilities from information annihilation in neuronal networks” Many Complex Adaptive Systems, including human balancing behavior, financial markets, and neuronal networks, exhibit complex spatio-temporal activity. Interestingly, all these systems feature a dynamic balance of opposing influences. In this project we will investigate the consequences of simple but biologically realistic mechanisms that yield a balance of excitatory and inhibitory inputs into neurons. In particular, we will determine the conditions where this balance does not result in simple equilibria but causes complex temporal dynamics and power-law distributed avalanches of activity in recurrent networks. This topic is part of a long term research program where we investigate whether a single general principle, by which criticality emerges from an efficient absorption of information, can account for these observations in a wide range of systems. The position is funded with a salary comparable to a 65 % TVL13 position and comes with support for 3 years and direct supervision by the principal investigator. Ideal candidates have a MSc degree in Physics or Mathematics. In any case they must have a strong background in physics and/or computational neuroscience and solid programming skills. Above all, they must have a strong motivation, a sense for responsibility, interest for detailed analysis, and a distinct desire to learn. Fluency in English is required (both written and spoken). If you are interested, please send your complete application by 23th October 2016 by e-mail (see detailed instructions below) to ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de. Severely disabled applicants and women with essentially identical and personal suitability will be preferentially selected. Detailed instructions for applicants ===================== Your application must comprise: Motivation letter -------------------- Your 1-2 page essay should reply the following questions: What is your background? In which fields have you worked before and how do you think this can be useful for the present job? What attracts you to the field of neuroscience? Which problem(s) in neuroscience are you most interested in? Which kind of person are you (e.g. creative, analytic, communicative, pragmatic, etc.) and how do you approach a research problem? What are your plans for your future career? Curriculum Vitae --------------------- Send a classical tabular CV with your contact details, your date-of-birth, a current photograph, and all stages of education and employment. List of skills, awards, publications List your skills, especially proficiency in languages (including the level of proficiency), that you think might be useful for the job. Also list awards you might have got and peer-reviewed papers, in case there are some. Contact details of two academic references -------------------------------------------------------- One of the references should be your MSc advisor. Please contact the references prior to listing their names so that they are not surprised if they get contacted. Your application can be in English or German, whatever language you are more familiar with. Please send your application to ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de by 23th October 2016! All documents must be in PDF format and must not be compressed. Combine all documents to a single PDF file or at least name the separate files appropriately. If we find your application interesting, we will let you know within two weeks and potentially ask for more documents.

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2 Available PhD Positions in Artificial Intelligence and Neuro-Cognitive Robotics, Ritsumeikan University, Japan
by Amir Aly Sept. 28, 2016

Sept. 28, 2016

**Apologies for Cross Posting ** *2 Available PhD Positions in Artificial Intelligence and Neuro-Cognitive Robotics at the Emergent Systems Laboratory, Ritsumeikan University, Japan* The Emergent Systems Laboratory [Link <http://www.em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp/en>] at Ritsumeikan University in Japan (nearby Kyoto) announces 2 available PhD positions in artificial intelligence and neuro-cognitive robotics as a part of the new project: *"*Comparison and Fusion of Artificial Intelligence and Brain Science*"*. The successful PhD candidates will be involved in research about: *Understanding Neural Computation for Double Articulation Analysis Bridging Sensory-motor Information and Natural Language in Human Brain*, under the supervision of Tadahiro Taniguchi (Project Coordinator) [ Link <http://www.tanichu.com/profile>]. *I. Positions Description * Human brain can analyze a two-layer hierarchical structure embedded in speech signal called *double articulation structure* (i.e., speech signal is segmented into words and phonemes in a hierarchical manner). However, the computational process of double articulation analysis in human brain has not been revealed in neuroscience. In artificial intelligence and developmental robotics, we have not developed - yet - a robot that can automatically learn language from human-robot and sensorimotor real-world interactions in an unsupervised manner. This project aims to contribute to : - Understanding the neural mechanism supporting human and robot language acquisition involving double articulation analysis. - Developing unsupervised machine learning methods for building the next-generation communicative robots. - Developing deep learning and Bayesian probabilistic models integrating language, planning, and sensorimotor behaviors. - Investigating theories bridging between deep learning and Bayesian nonparametrics. Each PhD candidate is expected to contribute to a part of the project. *II. Candidate Profile* - Good mathematical background. - English communication skill for daily discussion and writing papers: IELTS 6 (TOEIC 740). - Programming skills in C++, Python, or Matlab for machine learning and intelligent robot. - Applicants are expected to be interested in natural language, language acquisition, and the human cognitive neural system of social behavior. *III. Application* Please send your application to (adm(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp) no later than *31 October 2016*, including: - List of publications. - Copies of 2 major publications. - Outline of past research (free format). - Motivation letter (free format). - Outline of prospective research (free format). - 2 Reference letters. Further details about the available positions and admission procedures are available on: *PhD Positions in Artificial Intelligence and Neuro-Cognitive Robotics <http://www.em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp/info/call-for-phd-candidates-research-assis…>* . Ritsumeikan University is a fast growing international research environment with interdisciplinary research areas, and is the biggest private university in the west of Japan. The College of Information Science and Engineering is the biggest college in the field of Information Science in Japan, and the Graduate School is receiving a large number of KAKENHI Japanese governmental research grants. *IV. Related Papers* [1] Tadahiro Taniguchi, Shogo Nagasaka, Ryo Nakashima, Nonparametric Bayesian Double Articulation Analyzer for Direct Language Acquisition from Continuous Speech Signals, IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems, Vol. PP (99) .(2016) DOI: 10.1109/TCDS.2016.2550591 [2] Tadahiro Taniguchi, Takayuki Nagai, Tomoaki Nakamura, Naoto Iwahashi, Tetsuya Ogata, and Hideki Asoh, Symbol Emergence in Robotics: A Survey, Advanced Robotics, Vol.30, (11-12) pp. 706-728 .(2016) DOI:10.1080/01691864.2016.1164622 ---------------------------------------------- Amir Aly, Ph.D. Postdoctoral Research Associate Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering - Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

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International Workshop on Computational Psychiatry at KAIST (Sang Wan Lee)
by Sang Wan Lee Sept. 27, 2016

Sept. 27, 2016

We are pleased to host a single day workshop on computational psychiatry, entitled "Computational approaches to understanding memory, learning, decision making, and emotion processing". The brain is an immensely complex system, making it hard to account for the brain's high-level functions, such as cognitive, emotional, and social components. The impairments of these circuits often lead to mental illness. A new approach, dubbed as computational psychiatry, combines experiments with computational modelling to provide the means to prevent psychiatric disorders. This workshop discusses recent advances in applying neuroeconomics, computational neuroscience, artificial intelligence to the study decision making, learning and memory. A deeper insight into these functions is expected to permit development of model-based diagnosis of mental disorders. * List of speakers : Benedetto de Martino (University of Cambridge, UK) Robb Rutledge (University College London, UK) Shinsuke Suzuki (Tohoku University, Japan) Sukbin Lim (New York University Shanghai, China) Sang Wan Lee (KAIST, South Korea) * Date: OCT 5 Wednesday, 2016 * Venue: Dream Hall (1st floor), CHUNG Moon Soul building (E16), KAIST * Program: http://www.aibrainlab.com/cp2016/ (free registration) - Host: Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST - Organizer: Sang Wan Lee (inquiries: Hana Park, <mailto:hnpark@kaist.ac.kr> hnpark(a)kaist.ac.kr) -- Sang Wan Lee, Ph. D Assistant Professor Laboratory for Brain and Machine Intelligence Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea +82-42-350-4334 sangwan(a)kaist.ac.kr <mailto:sangwan@kaist.ac.kr> http://aibrain.kaist.ac.kr

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Two Postdoc Positions in Model-based fMRI and Machine Learning at KAIST (Sang Wan Lee)
by Sang Wan Lee Sept. 27, 2016

Sept. 27, 2016

*Postdoctoral positions in model-based fMRI and machine learning at KAIST* Two postdoctoral positions, funded through Samsung future technology foundation, are immediately available in the Laboratory for Brain and Machine Intelligence, led by Sang Wan Lee, at KAIST (http://aibrain.kaist.ac.kr/openings) The laboratory is affiliated with the department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Brain and Cognitive Engineering program, and KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology (KIHST). The positions are initially appointed for one year, and may be extended for up to three years. We offer a competitive salary plus benefits. We also provide opportunities for working with our collaborators (refer to our website for more information). The project, AI-human coevolution engine, aims to develop a framework that boosts human learning and inference performance. It requires a combination of model-based neuroimaging techniques and a design of various learning algorithms. Research topics include model-based/model-free reinforcement learning, inductive/deductive/transitive inference, and one-shot learning. Details about the project is confidential, but the research proposal will be outlined during an interview. Qualifications (type1): - PhD in cognitive neuroscience, computational neuroscience, or physics - prior experience in (model-based) fMRI analysis is preferred. Qualifications (type2): - PhD in electrical engineering, computer science, or applied mathematics - strong quantitative background with expertise in machine learning The positions are open until filled. Interested please send a cover letter, a CV and a list of two references to sangwan(a)kaist.ac.kr. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. -- Sang Wan Lee, Ph. D Assistant Professor Laboratory for Brain and Machine Intelligence Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea +82-42-350-4334 sangwan(a)kaist.ac.kr <mailto:sangwan@kaist.ac.kr> http://aibrain.kaist.ac.kr

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Faculty Positions in Applied Mathematics at Northwestern University
by William L. Kath Sept. 26, 2016

Sept. 26, 2016

The Department of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics at Northwestern University (http://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/applied-math/) invites applications for two full-time, tenure-track faculty positions. Hiring will be focused on the assistant professor level, although exceptional applicants at a more senior level will be considered. Requirements include a Ph.D. and demonstrated ability to conduct high-impact interdisciplinary research in applied mathematics. Candidates in all areas are encouraged to apply. We are seeking candidates with strong connections to applications who can enhance the breadth of research activities of the department. Duties involve teaching and research. The application package should include a curriculum vita, a statement of research accomplishments and interests, and a statement of teaching experience and philosophy. Send applications to https://facultysearch.mccormick.northwestern.edu/apply/index/ODg In addition, the applicant should arrange for at least three, but no more than four letters of recommendation. Recommendation letters will be automatically solicited from the letter writers by email after the names are entered in the online application system. Questions may be sent to esam-facultysearch(a)northwestern.edu (Subject line: 2017 Faculty Search). Review of applications will begin November 15, 2016, and will continue until the positions are filled. For further information, see: http://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/applied-math/. 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. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States. -- 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

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Reminder: deadline (October 1st 2016) approaching for manuscript submission to the Research Topic 'Burst coding: from cell to cognition'
by Fleur Zeldenrust Sept. 26, 2016

Sept. 26, 2016

This is a reminder: The deadline for manuscript submission to the Research Topic below is on Extended Article Submission Deadline: 01 Oct 2016 . Research Topic Title: Burst coding: from cell to cognition Topic Editor(s): Wytse J. Wadman, Fleur Zeldenrust, Bernhard Englitz Hosting Field: Frontiers in Neuroscience Journal: Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Here are quick links to: - Manuscript guidelines: http://home.frontiersin.org/about/author-guidelines - Online submission: http://frontiersin.org/Computational_Neuroscience/researchtopics/Burst_codi… - List of article types and publishing fees: http://www.frontiersin.org/about/PublishingFees With best regards, Fleur Zeldenrust Guest Associate Editor, Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Department of Neurophysiology Donders Centre for Neuroscience Faculty of Science, Radboud Universiteit Heyendaalseweg 135, postvak 33 6525 AJ Nijmegen tel +31 24 36 53195 www.frontiersin.org

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Brainhack: Anatomy edition in Paris, 24-26 October 2016
by Anastasia Osoianu Sept. 24, 2016

Sept. 24, 2016

Registration is now open for Brain-anatomy-hack in Paris. Brain-anatomy-hack aims at promoting the interaction between scientists on questions concerning (1) the investigation of brain anatomy based on magnetic resonance imaging or post mortem dissection; (2) the evolution of nervous systems across species; (3) the variability of brain features across healthy participants; (4) the insurgence of brain pathologies. Program Each of the three days will begin with an “Ignite Session” in which speakers will give 15-30 minute talks that will address wide questions in neuroanatomy that would benefit from open, interdisciplinary collaborations. The “Ignite Session” will be followed by a “hack session” and a dynamic set of talks organized by attendees. During the “hack sessions”, participants will be encouraged to work together in small groups on relevant projects. The workshop will culminate on the last day, when participants will have the opportunity to present a brief overview of their project. Participants can bring their own dataset, discuss a project and recruit a team of collaborators on site. Access to free big online databases of MRI images will be also available during the three days, for new creative ideas to be tested. This workshop is also an opportunity to learn methods, develop skills and collaborate with other participants. Participants will be supervised and receive advice on methods from a team of very capable nerds including Roberto Toro, Michel Thiebaut de Schotten, Alexandros Goulas, Julien Lefèvre, Daniel Margulies and Leonardo Cerliani throughout the three days. A constant flow of food and drinks (especially coffee…) will be provided during the conference breaks. We kindly request an online preregistration (70€) in order to cover the expenses for the venue, the equipment and the food/drinks. Deadline is 16th of October 2016. For more information and preliminary schedule visit: http://neuroanatomy.github.io/events/brainhack/ To learn more about Brainhack and previous events: http://brainhack.org/

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Job Posting--Senior Data Analyst--DiCarlo Lab
by Christopher Shay Sept. 23, 2016

Sept. 23, 2016

SENIOR DATA ANALYST Massachusetts Institute of Technology Brain and Cognitive Sciences McGovern Institute for Brain Research Lab of James J. DiCarlo http://dicarlolab.mit.edu/ <http://dicarlolab.mit.edu/> To develop and lead an open science framework for a small, but growing consortium of neuroscience research labs that together aim to build computational models of the brain’s visual processing system. Primary responsibilities are to (i.) develop and perform data packaging and analytics on visual neuroscience and behavioral psychophysics data, (ii.) implement existing and novel computational models of the visual system, and (iii.) build metrics and visualizations that quantitatively compare computational models to experimental data. The candidate will be based at the DiCarlo Lab at McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT. He or she will develop and implement standardized data formats, apply computational and statistical tools for data analysis, develop web-based graphical visualization interfaces to display results and present reports/results to the PIs, collaborators, and the research group. The data analyst will also oversee the lab’s local and remote computing hardware resources. REQUIRED: Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Computer Science or Software Engineering; Masters degree in (e.g.) Machine Learning, Statistics, or related field highly desirable; extensive familiarity with and high level of demonstrated competence in Python and Javascript absolutely required; working knowledge of C++ and C# languages highly desirable; minimum of five years’ experience with large-scale data-science activities, including organizing, analyzing, and synthesizing complex datasets to produce readable, informative automated web-based reports; demonstrated competence in modern data visualization tools such as Tableau, R, and D3.js; minimum of two years’ experience with large-scale database design and usage; minimum of two years' experience with building and maintaining a medium-to-large scale web-based application stack; experience with statistical languages/programming packages such as MATLAB (preferred), R, Stata, SPSS, or SAS highly desirable; experience with executing neural network feature extraction procedures on GPUs highly desirable. Demonstrated ability to partner with colleagues; ability to independently manage multiple projects/priorities while meeting changing deadlines, adapt to new technologies, and present information in a clear and cohesive manner; creative problem solving skills; ability to approach tasks with an eye toward efficiency and reproducibility; excellent written and oral communications skills; meticulous attention to detail; and proactive approach to investigative analysis. Experience in academic research, particularly computational neuroscience, is highly desirable. Christopher Shay, PhD Lab Manager DiCarlo Lab McGovern Institute Lab: (617) 452-3261 Fax:(617) 253-0104

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Software Engineer position in modeling at the Allen Institute for Brain Science
by Anton Arkhipov Sept. 23, 2016

Sept. 23, 2016

A new position is open at the Allen Institute for Brain Science: http://www.alleninstitute.org/what-we-do/brain-science/careers/job-search/ 2260-Modeling Analysis and Theory Software Engineer II Please apply at the link above! If you have any questions, please feel free to email antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org>. Job description. The Modeling, Analysis and Theory group is seeking a Software Engineer to contribute to one of our most crucial efforts - development of software tools for building, simulating, and analyzing models of brain cells and circuits. This individual will design and implement integrated software to enable modeling of brain activity and computations at several levels of resolution - from biophysically detailed to abstract, machine-intelligence-type models. The Software Engineer will be embedded in our Modeling team and will work closely with team members to combine the existing research code with newly designed and developed modules, in order to produce a high-quality modeling software suite for public release and continuous support. Job Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain software for model building, simulation, and analysis/visualization across several modeling approaches using best software engineering practices. * In a team setting, actively participate in algorithm design and software planning and provide thoughtful solutions and alternatives. * Transform complex and high level requirement specifications into software code. * Present design solutions to peers, both within and outside of the Institute. * Manage multiple tasks, set clear priorities, and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision. Basic Qualifications: * BS, MS, or PhD in physical science, math, engineering or computer science discipline. * Strong background in scientific computing; experience in developing scientific modeling software, especially in computational neuroscience, is preferred. Experience with parallel computing is a plus. * At least 5 years of experience with python; familiarity with numpy/scipy. * Familiarity with modern version control systems, such as git. * Experience with Linux is essential; versatility in Windows and Mac platforms is desirable. * Experience in developing, shipping and maintaining robust, data-intensive applications. * Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment. Desirable Qualifications: * C/C++ experience. * Graphics and/or data visualization experience. * Some experience in working with relational databases. * Familiarity with SQL. * Experience with maintaining open-source projects.

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postdoctoral position CRM, Barcelona
by Alex Roxin Sept. 22, 2016

Sept. 22, 2016

Dear all, The Computational Neuroscience Group at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica in Barcelona, Spain is looking for applicants for a two-year postdoctoral position in the framework of the Collaborative Research Program funded by the Caixa Foundation, to foster collaboration between theory and experiment. Project Description: This project involves data analysis from animal experiments, computational modeling and translation of the results to a clinical setting. The candidate will study how cortical, brain stem and spinal cord circuits interact to drive motor function. This will involve analysis and modeling of high-dimensional data from experiments with stimulating electrodes in the motor cortex and spinal cord, and recording electrodes in forelimb muscles of rats, as well as experiments in which the EMG activity of muscles is recorded while the animal is engaged in a reaching and grasping task. In addition, we are initiating a collaboration with the Guttmann Institute for Neurorehabilitation to translate our results to human patients, in order to find a therapy to recover arm/hand function in patients with high spinal cord injuries. The candidate will work in close collaboration with Alex Roxin at the Group for Computational Neuroscience at the CRM and Guillermo Garcia Alias at the Neuroscience Institute at the UAB. Candiate Profile: We are looking for an enthusiastic and scientifically curious researcher with a strong technical background, ideally in mathematics, physics, engineering or related fields. A background in biology or neuroscience is not required. Application Deadline: October 24th. Decision early November. For more information and to apply go to http://www.crm.cat/en/Pages/DetallNoticia.aspx?ItemID=112 best regards, Alex

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MIT searching for tenure-track faculty at the assistant professor level
by Kate White Sept. 21, 2016

Sept. 21, 2016

The Department of Brain & Cognitive Sciences (BCS) (http://bcs.mit.edu<http://bcs.mit.edu/>) at MIT is looking to hire multiple tenure-track faculty at the assistant professor level. Affiliations with the Picower Institute for Learning & Memory and the McGovern Institute for Brain Research are possible. We are most excited about candidates who work in one or more of the following three areas: i. Computational approaches to neuroscience and cognition. Possible areas of focus include but are not limited to: statistical analysis of neural data and neural signal processing; computational modeling of neural circuits, of neural population representations and transformations; and/or of human cognitive processes. Candidates with the ability to build bridges across empirical domains are especially attractive. An affiliation with Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), the newly formed Statistics and Data Science Center, and Society (IDSS), or other allied departments is possible. The Department aims to make multiple hires in this area. ii. Systems neuroscience in non-human animals. The ideal candidate will be driven by the goal of reverse-engineering neural circuits underlying complex behaviors, and will employ novel technologies and computational approaches to understand the coding, dynamics, and/or anatomical underpinnings of these circuits. We will consider applicants who are working on a broad range of model organisms. iii. Cognitive neuroscience in humans and/or non-human primates. The ideal candidate would be conducting research that informs our understanding of cognition while bridging levels of analysis and using multiple methods, e.g. ECoG, fMRI, electrophysiology, MEG, computational modeling, genetics and reverse engineering approaches. Successful applicants are expected to develop and lead independent, internationally competitive research programs and to share in our commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education by teaching courses and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. PhD must be completed by start day of employment and some postdoctoral training is preferred. Please submit application materials - cover letter, CV, statement of research and teaching interests and representative reprints - online at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/8024. Please state research area in cover letter. To help direct the application, applicants should indicate which of the areas listed above is their main research area by selecting from the drop down list included in the application. In addition, please arrange to have three letters of recommendation submitted online. All application materials are due by midnight (EST) on October 31, 2016. MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer<https://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf>. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Best regards, Kate White Human Resources Administrator MIT | Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (BCS) 77 Massachusetts Ave., Bldg 46-2005A Cambridge, MA 02139 T: 617-253-5749 | E: kowhite(a)mit.edu<mailto:kowhite@mit.edu> Visit us online at http://bcs.mit.edu<http://bcs.mit.edu/> [cid:5DC388A1-6756-4BB2-81B2-79C29D68B533] *Please note, BCS HQ is currently located in temporary office space on the 5th floor, suite 46-5065 until further notice. I am located in office 46-5065C.

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Brian 2.0 release
by Dan Goodman Sept. 21, 2016

Sept. 21, 2016

We are very pleased to announce the release of version 2.0 of the Brian neural network simulator. Brian is a free, open source simulator for spiking neural networks. It is written in the Python programming language and is available on almost all platforms. We believe that a simulator should not only save the time of processors, but also the time of scientists. Brian is therefore designed to be easy to learn and use, highly flexible and easily extensible. You can learn more about Brian at our website (http://briansimulator.org) You can also try out Brian from your web browser, without having to install any software, using our interactive demo (http://mybinder.org/repo/brian-team/brian2-binder/notebooks/demo.ipynb) Major new features in 2.0 ------------------------- * Much more flexible model definitions. The behaviour of all model elements can now be defined by arbitrary equations specified in standard mathematical notation. * Code generation as standard. Behind the scenes, Brian automatically generates and compiles C++ code to simulate your model, making it much faster. * "Standalone mode". In this mode, Brian generates a complete C++ project tree that implements your model. This can be then be compiled and run entirely independently of Brian. This leads to both highly efficient code, as well as making it much easier to run simulations on non-standard computational hardware, for example on robotics platforms. * Multicompartmental modelling. * Python 2 and 3 support. That's just a small fraction of the new features in 2.0. For the full list, see http://brian2.readthedocs.io/en/stable/introduction/release_notes.html. Upgrading from Brian 1.4 ------------------------ Brian 2 is a rewrite from scratch, and introduces some backwards incompatible changes. In most cases, these should be relatively simple. We've written a detailed guide on how to update your simulations: http://brian2.readthedocs.io/en/stable/introduction/changes.html. Note that you can have both Brian 1 and Brian 2 installed simultaneously, so you can switch gradually. Thanks ------ Brian 2 was written by Marcel Stimberg, Dan Goodman and Romain Brette. Do please remember to cite Brian if you use it for your research. We would also like to thank the large number of users (over 40) who contributed code, bug reports, etc.

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MLINI 2016: NIPS Representation Learning in Artificial and Biological Neural Networks Workshop
by Leila Wehbe Sept. 20, 2016

Sept. 20, 2016

NIPS Workshop on Representation Learning in Artificial and Biological Neural Networks (MLINI 2016) December 9th, 2016, Centre Convencions Internacional Barcelona, Barcelona, SPAIN *Call for papers and abstracts:* Submission deadline: *Tuesday, September 27th, 2016* Notification of acceptance: Wednesday, October 5th, 2016 Submission website: *https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/MLINI2016 <https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/MLINI2016>* Workshop Website: https://sites.google.com/site/mlini2016nips We invite submissions that are related, but not limited to: - Use of neural network and other methods as models of brain function - Machine learning methods, including deep learning, to analyze brain data - Cognitively plausible learning algorithms, or in general models that take insights from human brains or behavior We invite both: - Paper submissions, to be considered for online publication in arXiv proceedings, and poster presentation. The length should not exceed 6 pages in Springer format <http://www.springer.com/computer/lncs?SGWID=0-164-6-793341-0> (here are the LaTeX2e style files <ftp://ftp.springer.de/pub/tex/latex/llncs/latex2e/llncs2e.zip>), excluding the references. - Abstract submission, to be considered for poster presentation. The abstract should not exceed 500 words (figures are allowed). This workshop is in conjunction with a Frontiers topic entitled: Artificial neural networks as models of human brain function http://journal.frontiersin.org/researchtopic/4817/artificial -neural-networks-as-models-of-neural-information-processing Participants are strongly encouraged to submit their work to the Frontiers special topic edition (deadline is November 1st). *About the workshop:* This one day workshop is about the interface between cognitive neuroscience and recent advances in AI fields that aim to reproduce human performance, such as natural language processing or computer vision, and specifically the deep learning approaches in these disciplines. When studying the cognitive capabilities of the brain, scientists follow a system identification approach in which they present different stimuli to the subjects and try to model the evoked brain responses. The goal is to understand the brain by trying to find the function that expresses the activity of brain areas in terms of different properties of the stimulus. Experimental stimuli are becoming increasingly complex with more and more researchers studying real life phenomena such as the perception of natural images or natural sentences. There is therefore a need for rich and adequate representations of the properties of the stimulus, that can be obtained using advances in NLP, computer vision or other relevant ML disciplines. In parallel, many new ML approaches, especially in deep learning, are inspired to a certain extent by human behavior or biological principles. Neural networks for example were originally inspired by biological neurons. More recently, processes such as attention are being used which are inspired by human behavior. However, the large bulk of these methods are independent of findings about brain function, and it is unclear whether it is at all beneficial for machine learning to try to emulate brain function in order to achieve the same tasks that humans are capable of performing. In order to shed some light on this difficult but exciting question, we plan to bring together many experts from these seemingly converging fields to discuss these problems, in a new highly interactive format consisting of two short lectures from experts in both fields, followed by a guided discussion. This workshop is a continuation of the Machine Learning and Interpretation in Neuroimaging (MLINI) series. MLINI has already had 5 iterations in which methods for analyzing and interpreting neuroimaging data were discussed in depth. In keeping with tradition, we also invite contributions from the expanding field of machine learning applied to neuroimaging data, and specifically the recent trend of utilizing neural network models to analyze brain data, which is evolving in parallel to the use of these algorithms as models of the information content in the brain. This way we will complete the loop: we will explore how neural networks and other machine learning tools contribute to neuroscience, both as a source of models for brain representations, and as a tool for brain image analysis. *Organizers:* Guillermo Cecchi (IBM T.J. Watson Research Center) Moritz Grosse-Wentrup (Max Plank Institute for Intelligent Systems) Georg Langs (Medical University of Vienna, CSAIL, MIT) Brian Murphy (Queens University, Belfast) Anwar Nunez-Elizalde (Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley) Irina Rish (IBM T.J. Watson Research Center) Marcel van Gerven (Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen) *Leila Wehbe (Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley) - main contact

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MediTec 2016: Extended Last Date of Submission is September 30, 2016
by MediTec 2016 Sept. 20, 2016

Sept. 20, 2016

*(Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this CFP)* ****Last date for paper submission of MediTec 2016 has been extended upto SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 upon receiving many requests from potential authors and researchers for extension.* *Dear Sir/Madam,* This letter is to formally invite you to participate and submit your research works in the “*2016 International Conference on Medical Engineering, Health Informatics and Technology (MediTec 2016)*” themed "*Smart Systems for Healthcare*" from *17-18 December 2016,* which will take place at United International University (UIU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. *MediTec 2016* is technically co-sponsored by IEEE-EMBS Bangladesh Chapter and IEEE Bangladesh Section. This conference aims to bring together researchers, engineers, doctors, medical practitioners and experts in Bio-medical engineering, Healthcare, Intelligent Systems and Knowledge Management to share their experience, ideas and future scopes. Distinguished scientists, experts from both academia and industries will deliver keynote speeches and invited talks on trends and significant advances in the emerging technologies related to the conference topics. For the list of confirmed speakers, please *click here.* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/speakers/> *Major areas of interest include, but not limited to, are:* 1. Biomedical and Health Informatics 2. Biomedical Signal and Image Processing 3. Therapeutic Systems and Clinical Technologies 4. Neuro and Rehabilitation Engineering 5. Biorobotics, Bionanotechnology and Wearable Biomedical Sensors and Systems 6. Computational Biology and Bioinformatics 7. Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 8. ICT, Health and Disabilities Please find the attachment for detailed *Call For Paper* or visit *here* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Meditech-2016_A4_Poster…> . *Important Dates:* *Extended Last Date of Submission *: * SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 * Paper Submission Deadline 30 September 2016 Acceptance Notification 15 October 2016 Camera Ready Submission 10 November 2016 Registration Early Bird: 15 November 2016 Late: Afterwards All the accepted papers will be included in Conference Proceedings and all the presented papers will be submitted to *IEEE Xplore Digital Library*. Selected papers from the conference proceedings will be invited for possible publication in special issues of some reputed international journals. Paper submission for *MediTec 2016* is now open. *Click here to Submit Your Paper. <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=meditec2016>* For more information, please visit conference website *http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/>*.* Kindly promote *MediTec 2016* to interested individuals, researchers and communities in your vicinity. We look forward to meet you in the conference. Thanking you, Best Regards, Khondaker A. Mamun, *Ph.D.* Conference Chair, MediTec 2016 Email: meditec(a)uiu.ac.bd Cell: +880 1776534220 Director, AIMS Lab (www.aimsl.uiu.ac.bd) Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering ( www.cse.uiu.ac.bd) United International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh (www.uiu.ac.bd) Chair, IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, Bangladesh Chapter Initiator, Bangladesh Research and Awareness Initiative of Neuroscience (BRAIN) Email: k.mamun(a)ieee.org, mamun(a)cse.uiu.ac.bd, k.mamun(a)utoronto.ca, mamun79bd(a)yahoo.com URL: http://cse.uiu.ac.bd/faculty/kmamun/

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Winter School on the Mathematics of Memory in Barcelona, Spain
by Alex Roxin Sept. 20, 2016

Sept. 20, 2016

Dear all, We are happy to announce a winter school on the Mathematics of Memory, the "Memory School" which will take place Jan.16-20 2017 at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica in Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain. This is a week-long intensive course on the biology and mathematics of memory, including plasticity, learning, working memory, long-term memory, hippocampal and cortical network mechanisms and more. The confirmed school instructors are Nicolas Brunel University of Chicago Shaul Druckmann Janelia Research Campus Wulfram Gerstner Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience Gianluigi Mongillo CNRS Sandro Romani Janelia Research Campus Harel Shouval University of Texas Misha Tsodyks Weizmann Institute of Science Mark van Rossum University of Edinburgh This course is appropriate for both junior and senior researchers. Attendees will also have the opportunity to present their own work in a poster session. For more information and to register please go to the website http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/MATHMEM_School.aspx The Memory School is the opening event of a two-month long Intensive Research Program on the Mathematics of Memory at the CRM in Barcelona, Spain. Throughout the months of January and February there will be invited speakers, and the program will culminate in a week-long series of symposia on special topics on memory from leading experimentalists and theoreticians. For more information please go to http://www.crm.cat/en/Activities/Curs_2016-2017/Pages/IRP-MATHMEM.aspx best regards, Alex Roxin (and on behalf of the co-organizers Nicolas Brunel and Sandro Romani)

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[IJCNN 2017] Upcoming deadlines for Tutorials and Workshop Proposals
by Teng Teck Hou Sept. 19, 2016

Sept. 19, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ############################################################ International Joint Conference on Neural Networks May 14-19, 2017, Anchorage, Alaska, USA http://www.ijcnn.org/ ##################### Important Dates ###################### * Tutorial and Workshop Proposals October 15, 2016 * Paper Submission November 15, 2016 * Paper Decision Notification January 20, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission ebruary 20, 2017 #################### UPCOMING DEADLINES #################### CALL FOR WORKSHOPS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops CALL FOR TUTORIALS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials [UPCOMING DEADLINES 23.59hr UTC-10 on Saturday, 15 OCTOBER 2016] ############################################################ The 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017) will be held at the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage, Alaska, USA, May 14-19, 2017. The conference is organized jointly by the International Neural Network Society and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society, and is the premiere international meeting for researchers and other professionals in neural networks and related areas. It will feature invited plenary talks by world-renowned speakers in the areas of neural network theory and applications, computational neuroscience, robotics, and distributed intelligence. In addition to regular technical sessions with oral and poster presentations, the conference program will include special sessions, competitions, tutorials and workshops on topics of current interest For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook (https://fb.me/ijcnn2017/) and Twitter (@ijcnn2017). #################### Paper Submission is now Open #################### http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-papers * Regular paper can have up to 8 pages in double-column IEEE Conference format * All papers are to be prepared using IEEE-compliant Latex or Word templates on paper of U.S. letter size. * All submitted papers will be checked for plagiarism through the IEEE CrossCheck system. * Papers with significant overlap with the authors own papers or other papers will be rejected without review. ##########################Call for Workshops########################## Post-conference workshops offer a unique opportunity for in-depth discussions of specific topics in neural networks and computational intelligence. The workshops should be moderated by scientists or professionals who has significant expertise and /or whose recent work has had a significant impact within their field. IJCNN 2017 will emphasize emerging and growing areas of computational intelligence. Each workshop has a duration of 3 or 6 hours. The format of each workshop will be up to the moderator, and can include interactive presentations as well as panel discussions among participants. These interactions should highlight exciting new developments and current research trends to facilitate a discussion of ideas that will drive the field forward in the coming years. Workshop organizers can prepare various materials including handouts or electronic resources that can be made available for distribution before or after the meeting. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal including the following information as a single file (pdf, doc, etc.) to the workshop chair: * Title * Organizers and their short bio * Brief description of the scope and impact of the workshop * Timeliness of the topic * Confirmed and/or potential speakers * Half day (3 hours) or full day (6 hours) * Link to organizer's web page and/or workshop web site (optional) For further details, please refer http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Workshop Chair: Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. E-mail: liliadis(a)fmenr.duth.gr ##########################Call for Tutorials########################## IJCNN 2017 will feature pre-conference tutorials addressing fundamental and advanced topics in computational intelligence. Tutorial proposals should be emailed to the Tutorial Chair (see below). A tutorial proposal should include the * Title * Presenter/organizer name(s) and affiliations * Expected enrollment * Abstract (less than 300 words) * Additional outline if needed * Presenter/organizer biography * Links to the presenter/organizer web page or the tutorial page (optional) * The proposal should not exceed two pages in 1.5 space, Times 12 point font. The tutorial format (preliminary) is 1 hour and 45 minutes with a 10-minute break. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Tutorials Chair: Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA. E-mail: ASIM.ROY(a)asu.edu ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: NEURAL NETWORK MODELS * Feedforward neural networks * Recurrent neural networks * Self-organizing maps * Radial basis function networks * Attractor neural networks and associative memory * Modular networks * Fuzzy neural networks * Spiking neural networks * Reservoir networks (echo-state networks, liquid-state machines, etc.) * Large-scale neural networks * Other topics in artificial neural networks MACHINE LEARNING * Supervised learning * Unsupervised learning and clustering, (including PCA, and ICA) * Reinforcement learning * Probabilistic and information-theoretic methods * Support vector machines and kernel methods * EM algorithms * Mixture models, ensemble learning, and other meta-learning or committee algorithms * Bayesian, belief, causal, and semantic networks * Statistical and pattern recognition algorithms * Visualization of data * Feature selection, extraction, and aggregation * Evolutionary learning * Hybrid learning methods * Computational power of neural networks * Deep learning * Other topics in machine learning NEURODYNAMICS * Dynamical models of spiking neurons * Synchronization and temporal correlation in neural networks * Dynamics of neural systems * Chaotic neural networks * Dynamics of analog networks * Neural oscillators and oscillator networks * Dynamics of attractor networks * Other topics in neurodynamics COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE * Connectomics * Models of large-scale networks in the nervous system * Models of neurons and local circuits * Models of synaptic learning and synaptic dynamics * Models of neuromodulation * Brain imaging * Analysis of neurophysiological and neuroanatomical data * Cognitive neuroscience * Models of neural development * Models of neurochemical processes * Neuroinformatics * Other topics in computational neuroscience NEURAL MODELS OF PERCEPTION, COGNITION AND ACTION * Neurocognitive networks * Cognitive architectures * Models of conditioning, reward and behavior * Cognitive models of decision-making * Embodied cognition * Cognitive agents * Multi-agent models of group cognition * Developmental and evolutionary models of cognition * Visual system * Auditory system * Olfactory system * Other sensory systems * Attention * Learning and memory * Spatial cognition, representation and navigation * Semantic cognition and language * Neural models of symbolic processing * Reasoning and problem-solving * Working memory and cognitive control * Emotion and motivation * Motor control and action * Dynamical models of coordination and behavior * Consciousness and awareness * Models of sleep and diurnal rhythms * Mental disorders * Other topics in neural models of perception, cognition and action NEUROENGINEERING * Brain-machine interfaces * Neural prostheses * Neuromorphic hardware * Embedded neural systems * Other topics in neuroengineering BIO-INSPIRED AND BIOMORPHIC SYSTEMS * Brain-inspired cognitive architectures * Embodied robotics * Evolutionary robotics * Developmental robotics * Computational models of development * Collective intelligence * Swarms * Autonomous complex systems * Self-configuring systems * Self-healing systems * Self-aware systems * Emotional computation * Artificial life * Other topics in bio-inspired and biomorphic systems APPLICATIONS * Bioinformatics * Biomedical engineering * Data analysis and pattern recognition * Speech recognition and speech production * Robotics * Neurocontrol * Approximate dynamic programming, adaptive critics, and Markov decision processes * Neural network approaches to optimization * Signal processing, image processing, and multi-media * Temporal data analysis, prediction, and forecasting; time series analysis * Communications and computer networks * Data mining and knowledge discovery * Power system applications * Financial engineering applications * Applications in multi-agent systems and social computing * Manufacturing and industrial applications * Expert systems * Clinical applications * Big data applications * Smart grid applications * Other applications CROSS-DISCIPLINARY TOPICS * Hybrid intelligent systems * Swarm intelligence * Sensor networks * Quantum computation * Computational biology * Molecular and DNA computation * Computation in tissues and cells * Artificial immune systems * Other cross-disciplinary topics ################## Organizing Committee ###################### The full organizing committee can be found at: http://www.ijcnn.org/organizing-committee General Chair * Yoonsuck Choe, Texas A and M University, USA Program Chair * Christina Jayne, Robert Gordon University, UK Technical Co-Chairs * Irwin King, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China * Barbara Hammer, University of Bielefeld, Germany ##################Sponsoring Organizations################## * INNS - International Neural Network Society * IEEE - Computational Intelligence Society * BSCS - Budapest Semester in Cognitive Science

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Postdoctoral fellowship in computational neuroscience at Harvard
by Jan Drugowitsch Sept. 18, 2016

Sept. 18, 2016

Dear all, Jan Drugowitsch (Department of Neurobiology, Harvard) and Sam Gershman (Department of Psychology, Harvard) are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to work on a project combining psychophysics, computational modeling, and clinical studies. The project focuses on visual structure discovery, using motion perception as a model system. Our goal is to understand how neural circuits represent and reason about complex combinatorial structures, and how these neural circuits break down in autism. Candidates must have a strong background in Bayesian modeling and computational neuroscience. Experience with visual psychophysics experiments is desirable but not essential. Applicants should send a CV and statement of research interests to Jan Drugowitsch (Jan_Drugowitsch(a)hms.harvard.edu) Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Best, Jan Drugowitsch Assistant Professor in Neurobiology Harvard Medical School

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JOB: Neuroimaging Data Scientist. Multi-modal MRI study of voice perception.
by Sylvain Takerkart Sept. 15, 2016

Sept. 15, 2016

The 4-year project LIVES (Learning with Interacting Views), funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR), aims at developing innovative multi-view and multi-modal machine learning algorithms. As part of the LIVES consortium, our team at the Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (INT, http://www.int.univ-amu.fr) is in charge of acquiring a large *multi-sequence MRI* dataset that will be used to benchmark these methods. This will include *anatomical*, *diffusion-weighte*d and *functional* (both resting state and task-based) MRI data. Our goal is to characterize the inter-subject variability observed in the cortical activation patterns measured with task-based functional MRI in the auditory cortex, in a task that involves the processing of vocal information, using the other acquired modalities. *Missions*. The data scientist will set-up processing pipelines dedicated to analyze the different MR scan types (univariate and multi-voxel pattern analysis methods for task-fMRI; advanced characterization of the cortical anatomy using high-level representations such as sulci and sulcal pits; estimation of structural and functional connectomes). He/she will organize the raw and processed data in a standardized fashion in order to make it accessible to the other members of the consortium in a first stage, and to the scientific community at large in a second stage. *Profile*. This position is for a candidate who is comfortable (or proficient) with *computer programming* (*python* will be our language of choice), has knowledge in *signal and image processing* and has a personal interest for *machine learning*. It can be of interest to different types of profiles. Either you are a young graduate (BSc or MSc) in data science, electrical engineering or neuroscience and you want to be at the heart of a project where medical imaging and machine learning meet, with the possibility to continue as a PhD student. Or you already have a PhD in a relevant domain and you want to take this opportunity to fulfill the aforementioned missions while getting further involved in the research aspects of the project, in machine learning or in neuroimaging. *Working environment*. INT is one of the top French neuroscience research institutes with 150 staff members in 10 inter-disciplinary teams examining different aspects of the cerebral organization. It is located on the medical campus of Aix-Marseille University. The successful candidate will join INT’s Neuro-Computing Center, who operates a high-end computing facility and pursues research at the intersection of machine learning and neuroscience. He/she will interact with other teams working on functional imaging of voice perception, computational anatomy, machine learning and MRI data acquisition. Marseille, the second largest city in France, is a vibrant inter-cultural hub located on the Mediterranean shore, and only 2h away from the Alps mountains. The position is initially open for one year, with a possible renewal for a second year. Starting date is around December 2016. If you are interested, please send your resume and cover letter before Septembre 30, 2016, to Sylvain_DOT_Takerkart_AT_univ-amu_DOT_fr and Pascal_DOT_Belin_AT_univ-amu_DOT_fr. -- Sylvain Takerkart Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (INT) UMR 7289 CNRS-AMU Marseille, France tél: +33 (0)4 91 324 007 http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/_TAKERKART-Sylvain_?lang=en

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Tenure-Track Position in Computational Neuroscience, University of Oregon
by Yashar Ahmadian Sept. 15, 2016

Sept. 15, 2016

*Tenure track position in Computational Neuroscience* University of Oregon Departments of Mathematics and Biology (http://math.uoregon.edu/ http://biology.uoregon.edu/) Institute of Neuroscience (http://www.neuro.uoregon.edu/) The Departments of Biology and Mathematics and the Institute of Neuroscience at the University of Oregon announce a tenure track faculty position in computational neuroscience at the rank of assistant professor with ultimate department and institute affiliations flexible. Theorists seeking synergistic interactions with experimentalists in design, analysis and interpretation of research linking gene function, neuronal activity and behavior in model organisms and humans are especially encouraged to apply. This new position is part of an integrated effort to strengthen research at the nexus of mathematics and biology at the University of Oregon. It also advances a broader “Neurons to Minds” initiative that includes multiple new positions in systems and cognitive neuroscience to accelerate discovery in the neuronal basis of behavior and cognition. Minimum qualifications for candidates are a Ph.D. in an appropriate field (e.g. neuroscience, biology, mathematics, physics, electrical engineering, statistics, computer science, etc.), commitment to excellent teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and an outstanding research record. Candidates should have the ability to work effectively within a diverse community. Applications will be received online at https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/UO/IONMATHBIO. Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae including a publication list, a statement of research accomplishments and future research plans, a description of teaching experience and philosophy, and three letters of recommendation (sent independently). Submission of 1-3 selected reprints is encouraged. To be assured of consideration, application materials should be uploaded by *November 15, 2016, but the position will remain open until filled*. Requests for information can be sent to Dr. Shawn Lockery, Chair, Computational Neuroscience Search Committee (shawn(a)uoregon.edu) *The University of Oregon is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the ADA. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply, and does not discriminate **on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status.* *---------------------------------------------* *Yashar Ahmadian* *Institute of Neuroscience* Departments of Biology and Mathematics *University of Oregon* *http://uoneuro.uoregon.edu/ahmadian/index.php <http://uoneuro.uoregon.edu/ahmadian/index.php>*

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Postdoc and Research Assistant openings in cognitive neuroscience at UCSF/Stanford
by Connolly, Colm Sept. 14, 2016

Sept. 14, 2016

Please respond to info(a)brainlens.org<mailto:info@brainlens.org> Research Assistant Position at UCSF in California, USA on Multilingualism The Hoeft Lab (http://brainLENS.org PI: Fumiko Hoeft MD PhD) is looking for an exceptional research assistant interested in the developmental cognitive neuroscience of multilingualism. This NIH-funded research is in collaboration with Cammie McBride PhD of Chinese Univ of Hong Kong, Ken Pugh PhD of Haskins/Yale/UConn, Linda Siegel of UBC, Manolo Carreiras PhD of BCBL, Ioulia Kovelman PhD of U Michigan, and Yuuko Uchikoshi EdD of UC Davis. The position is suited for a self-motivated, organized and independent thinker, with good interpersonal and multitasking skills, as well as proficiency in the English language and computer software. Neuroimaging, computational, statistical, programming, and neuropsych testing skills are highly desired but not necessary. Native-like proficiency in Spanish or Cantonese is a plus. A major strength of our lab is that there are plenty of opportunities to conduct independent research, to be first author on publications and to give conference presentations as a novice RA (e.g. Myers et al. Psychol Sci ’14, Myers et al. SCAN ’16, Haft et al. Curr Opin Behav Sci ’16). The position begins in January but start date can be sooner and is negotiable. Please email info(a)brainlens.org with a cover letter and your CV. Please add “[RA job]” and your full name in the Subject of the email. Qualified candidates will be asked to have 2-3 letters of reference forwarded. Joint Postdoctocal Position at UCSF and Stanford University in California, USA The Hoeft Lab (http://brainLENS.org PI: Fumiko Hoeft MD PhD) at the UCSF Dept of Psychiatry and Weill Institute for Neurosciences in collaboration with the Stanford Mood and Anxiety Disorders Lab in the Dept of Psychology (http://goo.gl/dc96Cx PI: Ian Gotlib PhD) is looking for an exceptional postdoc in the field of affective neuroscience, with advanced neuroimaging, psychophysiology, computational, programming and organizational skills. Training in genetics is a plus. The primary project that the postdoc will be responsible for is the examination of intergenerational neuroimaging using a ‘natural’ cross-fostering design that allows dissociation of genetic, prenatal and postnatal environment on brain networks that are transmitted across generations. Related articles from our lab can be found here - Yamagata et al. J Neurosci 2016 (http://goo.gl/vMK8iy) Ho et al. Trends in Neurosci 2016 (http://goo.gl/SyXLcK) and Scientific American (http://goo.gl/YTiH6D) There are other funded opportunities to be involved in research that examines the impact of anxiety and stereotype on psychophysiology and cognitive processes. The position can begin immediately. Please email info(a)brainlens.org with your CV, and with brief paragraphs of research interests, career goals and why you feel you are a good fit for the lab. Please add “[Postdoc job]” and your full name in the Subject of the email. Qualified candidates will be asked to have 3 letters of reference forwarded. Regards, -- Colm G. Connolly PhD Dept of Psychiatry & Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences University of California, San Francisco 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143

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Conference Aspects of Neuroscience [Warsaw, Poland, 25-27th November]
by Daniel Borek Sept. 13, 2016

Sept. 13, 2016

Dear Friends, On behalf of the Neurobiology Scientific Student Association at the Faculty of Biology of the University of Warsaw we would like to invite you to* the 6th annual International Conference “Aspects of Neuroscience” *to be held in Warsaw, Poland, from *November 25th to 27th, 2016*. As in previous years, the Conference is divided into 4 sessions presenting different approaches to Neuroscience:*Neurobiology, Cognitive Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience *and* Computational Neuroscience*. Each thematic session is opened by a lecture delivered by one of the guests who are specialists in a given domain. This year we will host such outstanding neuroscientists as *Prof. Eva Jablonka, Prof. Christian Lüscher, Prof. David Price, Prof. Kevin Warwick, Prof. Giovanna Mallucci *and* Dr. Daniel S. Margulies*. Participants are encouraged to give an oral presentation in one of the thematic sessions following the guest’s lecture or to present a poster during the poster session (either in the experimental or theoretical section). *Abstract submission deadline: 1st November 2016Passive registration deadline: 10th November 2016* The conference is intended for students, PhD students and research workers in neuroscience or related fields. The interdisciplinary character of the Conference is a base for integration of diverse scientific environments in order to create new quality in brain research. The language of the conference is English. *For more information about the Conference visit our new website:* http://neuroaspects.org <http://neuroaspects.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c2e0466a746fafa55697…> Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspectsOfNeuroscience <http://neuroaspects.us14.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c2e0466a746fafa55697…> Yours sincerely, Organizing Committee of the International Conference Aspects of Neuroscience Neurobiology Scientific Student Association at the University of Warsaw

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Brains and Bits: Neuroscience Meets Machine Learning - NIPS Workshop: 9 & 10 December 2016
by Konrad Kording Sept. 13, 2016

Sept. 13, 2016

Join us (submit papers to) for the *Brains and Bits: Neuroscience Meets Machine Learning* *NIPS Workshop: 9 & 10 December 2016 Barcelona, Spain* http://www.stat.ucla.edu/~akfletcher/brainsbits.html The goal of this workshop is to bring together researchers in deep learning, machine learning, statistics, and computational neuroscience, and facilitate discussion about a) shared approaches for analyzing biological and artificial neural systems, b) how insights and challenges from neuroscience can inspire progress in machine learning, and c) machine learning methods for interpreting the revolutionary large scale datasets produced by new experimental neuroscience techniques. We invite high-quality submissions of abstracts for posters and contributed talks though CMT. Instructions are below. OverviewExperimental methods for measuring neural activity and structure have undergone recent revolutionary advances, including in high-density recording arrays, population calcium imaging, and large-scale reconstructions of anatomical circuitry. These developments promise unprecedented insights into the collective dynamics of neural populations and thereby the underpinnings of brain-like computation. However, these next-generation methods for measuring the brain’s architecture and function produce high-dimensional, large scale, and complex datasets, raising challenges for analysis. What are the machine learning and analysis approaches that will be indispensable for analyzing these next-generation datasets? What are the computational bottlenecks and challenges that must be overcome? In parallel to experimental progress in neuroscience, the rise of deep learning methods has shown that hard computational problems can be solved by machine learning algorithms that are inspired by biological neural networks, and built by cascading many nonlinear units. In contrast to the brain, artificial neural systems are fully observable, so that experimental data-collection constraints are not relevant. Nevertheless, it has proven challenging to develop a theoretical understanding of how neural networks solve tasks, and what features are critical to their performance. Thus, while deep networks differ from biological neural networks in many ways, they provide an interesting testing ground for evaluating strategies for understanding neural processing systems. Are there synergies between analysis methods for biological and artificial neural systems? Has the resurgence of deep learning resulted in new hypotheses or strategies for trying to understand biological neural networks? Conversely, can neuroscience provide inspiration for the next generation of machine-learning algorithms? We welcome participants from a range of disciplines in statistics, applied physics, machine learning, and both theoretical and experimental neuroscience, with the goal of fostering interdisciplinary insights. We hope that active discussions among these groups can set in motion new collaborations and facilitate future breakthroughs on fundamental research problems. ------------------------------ Organizers - Eva Dyer <http://kordinglab.com/people/eva_dyer/> Northwestern University - Allie Fletcher <http://www.stat.ucla.edu/~akfletcher/> Statistics, UCLA & UCB Redwood Center for Neuroscience - Konrad Kording <http://koerding.com//> Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Northwestern University - Jascha Sohl-Dickstein <http://www.sohldickstein.com/> Google Research - Joshua Vogelstein <http://jovo.me/> Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University - Jakob Macke <http://www.mackelab.org/> caesar Bonn, an Institute of the Max Planck Society Current Speakers - Christos Papadimitriou <https://people.eecs.berkeley.edu/~christos/> EECS, UC Berkeley - Adrienne Fairhall <https://fairhalllab.com/> Psychology and Biophysics, University of Washington - Yoshua Bengio <http://www.iro.umontreal.ca/~bengioy/yoshua_en/index.html> Computer Science and Operations Research, Université de Montréal - Sophie Denève <http://iec-lnc.ens.fr/group-for-neural-theory/members/faculty-in-alphabetic…> Group for Neural Theory, LNC, DEC, ENS - Demis Hassabis <http://demishassabis.com/> Google DeepMind - Terry Sejnowski <http://www.salk.edu/scientist/terrence-sejnowski/> Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Salk Institute, UCSD - Mitya Chklovskii <https://www.simonsfoundation.org/simons-center-for-data-analysis/scda-neuro…> Simons Foundation - Anima Anandkumar <http://newport.eecs.uci.edu/anandkumar/> EECS, UC Irvine - David Cox <http://www.coxlab.org/> Molecular and Cellular Biology and Computer Science, Harvard University - Surya Ganguli <https://web.stanford.edu/dept/app-physics/cgi-bin/person/surya-gangulijanua…> Applied Physics, Stanford University - Maneesh Sahani <http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/~maneesh/> Gatsby Institute, University College, London - Emily Fox <https://www.stat.washington.edu/~ebfox/> Statistics and Computer Science, University of Washington - Jonathan Pillow <http://pillowlab.princeton.edu/> Center for Statistics and Machine Learning, Princeton University - Fred Hamprecht <https://hciweb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/people/fhamprec> Heidelberg Collaboratory for Image Processing (HCI), Heidelberg - Max Welling, University of Amsterdam Submission Information & Important Dates Submissions will be considered both for poster and oral presentation. See instructions on the workshop website at http://www.stat.ucla.edu/~ akfletcher/brainsbits.html Submission deadline: 29 September 2016 11:59 PM PDT (UTC -7 hours) Acceptance notification: 12 October 2016

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2 open faculty positions at U. Colorado Medical School
by Zylberberg, Joel L Sept. 12, 2016

Sept. 12, 2016

Hello All, The Department of Physiology and Biophysics at the University of Colorado Medical School currently has two open tenure-track faculty positions. Specifically, we are searching for a new computational neuroscience / physiology faculty member, and for a new systems neuroscience / physiology faculty member. The positions at our medical school are quite nice for research-focused faculty: light teaching loads, extremely competitive start-up packages, etc. Details are available via this web link: http://www.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/medicalschool/departments/physio… If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me. Also, please forward this advertisement to any colleagues of yours who might be interested. Thanks! __ Joel Zylberberg Assistant Professor Department of Physiology and Biophysics University of Colorado School of Medicine www.jzlab.org<http://www.jzlab.org> CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar, Learning in Machines and Brains program ~the neuroscience is theoretical, but the fun is real

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Third International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS 2017)
by Robert Rosenbaum Sept. 12, 2016

Sept. 12, 2016

We are delighted to announce the 3rd International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS 2017), to be held at the Hotel Boulderado in Boulder, Colorado from May 30 to June 2 (Tutorials: May 30; Main Conference: May 31 - June 2). http://www.colorado.edu/amath/international-conference-mathematical-neurosc… *Abstract submission will open in October/November for both contributed talks and posters. *Student presenters can apply for travel awards funded by NSF, Burroughs Wellcome, and SIAM. The conference provides a forum for researchers to discuss current mathematical innovations emerging in neuroscience. We hope to attract and train young researchers on current methods in mathematical neuroscience. The meeting will feature leaders in applied mathematics and neuroscience that are developing new mathematical techniques for understanding high-dimensional data sets, building models to capture activity patterns and emergent computation, and working closely with experimentalists to address targeted questions about brain function. CONFIRMED SPEAKERS Danielle Bassett (University of Pennsylvania) Paul Bressloff (University of Utah) Nicolas Brunel (University of Chicago) Sophie Deneve (École Normale Supérieure) Brent Doiron (University of Pittsburgh) Ila Fiete (University of Texas) Stefano Fusi (Columbia University) Peter Thomas (Case Western Reserve University) Taro Toyoizumi (Riken Brain Science Institute) More TBA! We hope to see you in Boulder this coming May! All the best Zack Kilpatrick (University of Colorado) Julijana Gjorgjieva (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research) Robert Rosenbaum (University of Notre Dame) (conference chairs)

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PhD position in Computational/Systems Neuroscience @ the Institute of Neuroinformatics - ETH Zurich
by Benjamin Grewe Sept. 12, 2016

Sept. 12, 2016

PhD position in Computational/Systems Neuroscience @ the Institute of Neuroinformatics - ETH Zurich – in vivo imaging of neural ensemble learning in awake behaving animals – We are looking for a PhD candidate with a strong motivation to understand neuronal information processing (NIP) as well as learning induced changes in NIP at the level of large neuronal ensembles. To investigate NIP we utilize cutting edge large scale in vivo population calcium imaging techniques that allow recording ensemble activity of hundreds of neurons in freely moving and head-fixed rodents during diverse learning behaviors. Ideal candidates have some expertise in a neuroscience related field. The PhD candidate will acquire a unique skill set to utilize miniaturized and very large-scale calcium imaging technologies and work closely with the PI to perform behavior experiments and post-hoc data analysis. Applicants should hold a diploma or Masters degree in a quantitative discipline (e.g. physics, informatics, mathematics, biomedical-engineering) or neurobiology/neuroscience (e.g. systems neuroscience, neurophysiology, cell physiology). Experience in data analysis using MATLAB/Python/R or similar programming languages and basic knowledge in computational or experimental neuroscience is beneficial. Proficiency in English and a team-oriented working attitude are crucial for the applicant’s success. Candidates should be willing to perform biological in vivo experiments in rodents with an intrinsic motivation to unravel neural algorithms of information processing and learning. Please submit your complete application as one PDF via email to bgrewe(a)ethz.ch <mailto:bgrewe@ethz.ch>. The application should include the following documents: • A cover letter that includes the main motivation for doing a PhD at the INI. • Contact details of 2 references (email and phone number). • CV outlining prior education, research and publications (if available) • Academic transcripts (bachelor, master/diploma). • 1-2 page personal research statement. The research statement should cover the applicant’s future career goals and research project interests. The INI offers advanced, interdisciplinary PhD training and participation in cutting edge neuroscience and neuroinformatics research projects. The institute is home to a lively and interactive educational atmosphere with highly competitive salaries. Successful candidates will participate in the ZNZ doctoral program (http://www.neuroscience.uzh.ch/en.html <http://www.neuroscience.uzh.ch/en.html>) where they receive additional theoretical and practical training. Compensation/salary will be paid according to the guidelines of the Swiss National Science Foundation. Successful candidates will receive their PhD from ETH Zurich. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and will be reviewed upon receipt. The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich is consistently ranked the top university in continental Europe and is a leading player in research and education in Switzerland and worldwide. The INI is a joint institute of ETH and the University of Zurich with a primary research focus at the intersection of systems neuroscience and neuroinformatics. The mission of the institute is to discover key principles by which neural networks operate and process information. Comprising a diverse research portfolio (www.ini.uzh.ch <http://www.ini.uzh.ch/>) the INI is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between traditional systems neuroscience, neurobiology, neuroinformatics and neuroengineering. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Benjamin F. Grewe Institute of Neuroinformatics @ ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland Email: Bgrewe(a)ethz.ch

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Final notice - 2016 EEGLAB workshop following SFN, Nov 17-21, San Diego
by Arnaud Delorme Sept. 10, 2016

Sept. 10, 2016

EEGLAB developers and advanced users will present a four day workshop on the data analysis concepts and functions of the EEGLAB electrophysiological data processing environment and associated toolboxes held at the University of California San Diego in La Jolla, November 17-21, 2016 following the Society for Neuroscience meeting. In particular, we will feature our new improved statistical framework and data management strategies based on the General Linear Model with support from the LIMO EEGLAB extension. The preliminary program, registration instructions, as well as list of accommodation are available at http://sccn.ucsd.edu/wiki/EEGLAB_2016_at_UCSD <http://sccn.ucsd.edu/wiki/EEGLAB_2016_at_UCSD> Registration costs are 350 US dollars for students and post-docs and 500 US dollars for faculty and professionals. The workshop is a non profit event and faculty are volunteering their time. Registration will be handled by Eventbrite below. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-ucsd-eeglab-2016-workshop-san-diego-ticket… <https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-ucsd-eeglab-2016-workshop-san-diego-ticket…> For administrative questions about the location, hotel reservation, registration payments, and workshop overall organization please contact Risa at rshibata(a)ucsd.edu <mailto:antonio.cataldo2@unibo.it>. For questions about the scientific program, please contact EEGLAB organizers at eeglab(a)sccn.ucsd.edu <mailto:eeglab@sccn.ucsd.edu>. We are looking forward to see you at the workshop! A. Delorme S. Makeig

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Neural Processing Letters: CFP - Special Issue on "Off the mainstream: advances in neural networks and machine learning for pattern recognition"
by Friedhelm Schwenker Sept. 9, 2016

Sept. 9, 2016

Call for Papers Special issue on Off the mainstream: advances in neural networks and machine learning for pattern recognition to be published in Neural Processing Letters *** Submission deadline: January 31, 2017 *** Guest editors: Edmondo Trentin, University of Siena, Italy (trentin(a)dii.unisi.it) Friedhelm Schwenker, University of Ulm, Germany (friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de) Nemat El Gayar, Cairo University, Egypt (elgayar.neamat(a)gmail.com) Hazem M. Abbas, Ain Shams University, Egypt (as(a)eng.asu.edu.eg) Aims and scope of the special issue: "Mainstream science is about publishing what everyone else is publishing with very small changes. You'd better at least start off that way if you want to get tenure," the sociologist Rodney Stark said. But "big ideas don't come to those who avoid risk", as John Bohannon added. The area of artificial neural networks (ANN) and machine learning (ML) makes no exception to these ends: Mainstream topics, originally stemming from exciting breakthroughs (the "big ideas") that gradually become trends and end-up being mostly over-beaten publishing tracks, have characterized the scientific literature throughout the whole history of these research fields. A few, widely known instances of such (more or less recent) mainstream trends are: - Supervised support vector machine training (in both primal and dual) - Supervised multilayer perceptron training via regular backpropagation - Radial basis functions networks - Bayesian networks (either shallow or deep) - Deep feed-forward and convolutional neural networks - Countless applications of the aforementioned machineries - The “approximation capabilities” of such machineries Based on these premises, this special issue invites paper submissions on real novel research developments in the areas of neural networks and learning machines that (1) are rooted in (or, aimed at) pattern recognition (PR), and that, above all, (2) do not follow in the footsteps of nowadays established trends. Preference (over applications, theoretical analysis, and variants of established techniques) will thus be given to submissions that hand out fresh and innovative ideas/architectures/algorithms, even if they are in their infancy (e.g., possibly lacking of a complete investigation of their theoretical properties). A detailed list of topics of interest would contradict the very perspective of the present special issue. Nonetheless, some general, topical research directions are (to name a few): - New ANN or ML architectures - New ANN, ML, or PR algorithms - New estimation/optimization/assessment techniques for ANNs, ML, or PR - New and sound combination/hybridization of machines - Solutions to new, relevant PR-related problems - New and sound solutions to established PR-related problems If you are not sure on whether your manuscripts matches the aims and scope of this special issue or not, do not hesitate to get in touch with the guest editors at any time. The special issue will comprise (a) papers submitted in response to this call, and (b) extended versions of selected papers from the ANNPR 2016 Workshop (https://neuro.informatik.uni-ulm.de/ANNPR2016/) sponsored by the International Association for Pattern Recognition. Paper submission: Papers must be submitted online via the Neural Processing Letters website (https://www.editorialmanager.com/nepl/default.aspx) selecting the choice that indicates this special issue (identifier: S.I.:Off_mainstream). Prepare your paper following the Journal guidelines for Authors (http://www.springer.com/computer/ai/journal/11063?detailsPage=pltci_1060677) All submitted papers will undergo a regular peer-review process. Important dates: Opening of electronic submission: September 1, 2016 Submission deadline: January 31, 2017 Completion of 1st round of review process: March 31, 2017 Re-submission of revised manuscripts: May 15, 2017 Final decision: June 30, 2017 Tentative publication of the Special Issue: Fall 2017 -- PD Dr. Friedhelm Schwenker University of Ulm Institute of Neural Information Processing D-89069 Ulm, Germany phone: +49-731-50-24159 fax: +49-731-50-24156 email: friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de www: http://www.uni-ulm.de/in/neuroinformatik/mitarbeiter/f-schwenker.html

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workshop on high performance computing in neuroscience
by Ted Carnevale Sept. 9, 2016

Sept. 9, 2016

This year's workshop on the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 9 AM to noon in downtown San Diego near the convention center, as a satellite to the 2016 meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. This workshop will show you how to use this NSF-supported resource in your computationally-intensive modeling and data analysis projects. It will also feature presentations from several research teams about how they are using high performance computing (HPC) resources in their own research. The NSG has a simple, convenient user interface for running simulations and data analysis tasks on HPC hardware, and provides free CPU time. Currently installed software includes Brian, GENESIS, MOOSE, NEST, NEURON, PyNN, Freesurfer, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. The registration deadline for this workshop is Friday Oct. 28, but you should register soon because space is limited. See http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2016/nsg2016.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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Researcher position at ATR Brain Labs (Kyoto, Japan)
by Haruo HOSOYA Sept. 9, 2016

Sept. 9, 2016

Dear all, ATR Brain Labs in Kyoto, Japan has an open position for a researcher to work on machine learning for computer vision in collaboration with computational neuroscientists in our institute. I would appreciate if you forward the following message to anyone who might be interested. Best regards, Haruo Hosoya, Senior Researcher Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging ATR Brain Labs, Cognitive Mechanisms Laboratories ------------------------------------------------ ■Researcher position at ATR Brain Labs., Kyoto, Japan Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR), Kyoto, Japan, has an open researcher position in brain-inspired computer vision. Our institute has a long tradition in computational neuroscience and has recently been promoting research of computational modeling of primate visual systems based on hierarchical learning theory (project outline: http://www.cns.atr.jp/~hosoya/project_outline.pdf) We seek for applicants who are interested in working on brain-inspired machine learning algorithms for vision in collaboration with our computational neuroscientists for vision. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or be near completion in a relevant field. The applicants are required to show an expertise in machine learning research for visual processing as well as a strong interest in neuroscience. The successful candidate will be asked to propose and autonomously work on (1) a research topic using an original method that has a realistic applicability (e.g, image/video analysis) and a connection to primate vision, and (2) a research topic that applies, to a realistic problem (e.g., image/video analysis), computational models of primate vision developed in our institute. Haruo Hosoya, Ph.D. Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR), Kyoto, Japan 2016, September ■Number of openings One ■Employment conditions Position : Full-time Researcher Tenure : Single year based contract, renewable based on evaluation Treatment: Based on individual performance Work Location: Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan ■Application materials Please submit the following five materials to the contact address below, either in printed or electronic form: • 1 CV • 2 List of publications • 3 Reprints of 1-3 major publications • 4 Essay (up to two pages in A4 or letter size) describing: – Summary of your previous research – Interests for research – Additional research skills not directly foreseeable from 1 or 2 • 5 Recommendation letters from more than two researchers * If submitted in printed form, original documents will not be returned. ■Judging system After documentary examination, we ask for presentation and interview if needed. ■Starting date Soon (negotiable) ■Deadline for application Opens until positions are filled. ■Contact Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging ATR Cognitive Mechanisms Laboratories (Application for Researcher Position) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan Email: dbi-tvn at atr.jp at=@ Web: http://www.cns.atr.jp/dbi/en/open-positons/ ■Use of personal data All personal data received will be properly managed and only be used for the purpose of recruitment.

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Faculty Position in Biophysics including Neurophysics
by Ralf Wessel Sept. 8, 2016

Sept. 8, 2016

Biological/Biomedical Physics The Department of Physics in the School of Arts and Sciences announces a tenure-track faculty opening at the Assistant Professor level in the Biophysics sub-discipline. We are searching for an experimentalist, but applications from data-driven theorists will also be favorably considered. We are seeking a candidate who will enhance activities within the Physics Department and develop connections with other Arts and Sciences, Engineering School, and Medical School Departments. The duties of the position will include, but are not limited to, teaching and advising students, conducting original research and publishing the results, and participating in departmental and university service. A PhD in Physics or a closely related field is required, along with the ability to teach a range of traditional undergraduate physics courses in addition to specialized courses. Candidates are sought who have highly visible research achievements and who have a strong aptitude for teaching and mentoring students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The appointment will begin Fall 2017. Information on our department can be found at http://www.physics.wustl.edu. Applications should consist of the following: cover letter, current resume including publication record, statement of research interests and plans (up to 4 pages), statement of teaching interests and approach (up to 2 pages), and names and complete contact information (including email addresses) of three references. Application materials must be submitted electronically by email as a single file in editable (e.g. not password protected) PDF format to biophysicssearch(a)physics.wustl.edu. For full consideration applications should be submitted on or before November 1, 2016. http://physics.wustl.edu/faculty_openings -- **************************************************** Ralf Wessel, Professor of Physics Washington University in St. Louis http://www.physics.wustl.edu/people/wessel_ralf http://neuroscience.wustl.edu/ ****************************************************

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Neuroscience (one year post), Plymouth University, UK
by Roman Borisyuk Sept. 8, 2016

Sept. 8, 2016

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Neuroscience (one year post) Plymouth University, UK Postdoctoral Research Fellow will study the sensory modality integration leading to initiation of locomotion in the hatchling Xenopus tadpole. This is the collaborative project with neurobiologists from Bristol and St. Andrews Universities. We investigate: how different modalities of sensory input converge on the key neuron population; how sensory integration determines the "decision" to swim; and how the tadpole selects and correctly implements the way swimming starts. Research Fellow in Plymouth is responsible for developing new mathematical and computational models of three types: 1) anatomical modelling of neural structures; 2) functional neural network models of conductance-based neurons; 3) modelling decision making in response to sensory stimulation. All models will be grounded to available experimental evidence and will be developed in a strong collaboration with neurobiologists. Therefore, experience in neuroscience data processing and statistical analysis is important. We seek exceptional candidates who must either already have a PhD in computational neuroscience (or relevant area of research) or to be near the completion of PhD studies. The candidate must have a track record of related publications. Excellent skills in programming are essential. In particular, a significant experience with C++, Python, NEURON and MATLAB is required at initial stage to work with our previously developed software. Additionally, the candidate should be able to demonstrate a good knowledge of mathematical disciplines. Candidates with expertise in large scale simulation of spiking neurons (Hodgkin-Huxley type), dynamical systems, bifurcation theory and graph/network theory will be preferred. Ideally, the candidate would also have knowledge of vertebrate brain and spinal cord, behaviour modelling, and learning theory from a computational perspective. Application closing date 18/09/2016 Contact for informal inquiries: Roman Borisyuk, Professor of Computational Neuroscience, rborisyuk(a)plymouth.ac.uk<mailto:rborisyuk@plymouth.ac.uk>, 01752 584949 ________________________________ [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.

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Postdoctoral position in primate neurophysiology (University of Tucson)
by Ueli Rutishauser Sept. 7, 2016

Sept. 7, 2016

Please see below job ad, which I am posting on behalf of a colleague. *=====* *Postdoctoral position in primate neurophysiology.* *University of Arizona, College and Medicine,* *Department of Physiology, Tucson. * We are inviting application of postdoctoral trainees interested in working on the neural basis of natural social behaviors in non-human primates. The applicant will have access to state-of-the art equipment, facilities, and will work in a team with established expertise in behavioral neurophysiology of the amygdala. Candidates should have a PhD in neuroscience, psychology, biomedical engineering, or related field. Strong computational skill and communication skills are required. Experience in neurophysiology is preferred. The position is available immediately, with a competitive/negotiable salary commensurate with prior experience. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity employer and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Please send a CV, statement of research accomplishments and interests, copies of 2-3 representative publications and contact information for 2-3 reference letters to Katalin Gothard at kgothard(a)email.arizona.edu . Informal inquiries are welcome. Katalin M. Gothard, M.D., Ph.D. Professor of Physiology and Neuroscience The University of Arizona College of Medicine Department of Physiology webpage: http://www.gothardlab.com/

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BrainModes 2016 - Coordinated brain activity: foundations and applications - Conference announcement and call for abstracts
by Daniele Marinazzo Sept. 7, 2016

Sept. 7, 2016

It's our pleasure to announce you the BrainModes conference "Coordinated brain activity: Foundations and applications", that will be held in the heart of Brussels, at the Royal Flemish Academy of Sciences (KVAB) on* Dec 1 and 2*. BrainModes (www.brainmodes.org) is an annual conference in which methods and models to interpret brain activity, and their applications are discussed. This year the theme will be: Coordinated brain activity: foundations and applications. We are proud of the excellent lineup of speakers, including *Kia Nobre* (Oxford), *Olaf Sporns* (Indiana), *Maurizio Corbetta* (Padua and WU). There will be also a workshop organized in Ghent on nov 30 on methodological issues and demonstration. The complete program, the info on registration, abstract submission and location are here http://www.da.ugent.be/brainmodes Please spread this information within your network, and looking forward to see you in Brussels! Daniele Marinazzo, Dante Mantini and Wim Vanduffel. -- Daniele Marinazzo -- Department of Data Analysis Faculty of Psychology and Pedagogical Sciences, Ghent University Henri Dunantlaan 1, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium +32 (0) 9 264 6375 <http://www.da.ugent.be/>http://users.ugent.be/~dmarinaz/ https://twitter.com/dan_marinazzo BRAINMODES 2016 CONFERENCE http://www.da.ugent.be/brainmodes http://helpdesk.ugent.be/e-maildisclaimer.php

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Opening for Microfabrication and Sensors Technician in the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine
by Platt, Jo Ann Sept. 6, 2016

Sept. 6, 2016

Join our team to revolutionize medicine. The Center for Bioelectronic Medicine at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research is recruiting for multiple positions in the fields of neurophysiology, neural engineering, microfabrication, bioelectronics and biosensing, and neural decoding and data analytics. MICROFABRICATION LAB open position: Microfabrication and Sensors Technician Duties & Responsibilities The Microfabrication and Sensors Technician will fabricate neural implants and sensor systems, assist with research, and collaborate with Institute faculty, staff, fellows and students in the areas of microfabrication and sensor development. The successful candidate will: • Provide experimental and fabrication support to projects aimed at developing chronic implants for the brain and nerves and associated sensing systems • Fabricate flexible microdevices and sensor systems • Assist with experiments, organize and analyze data, and report experimental results • Assist with maintenance and procurement of equipment and supplies relating to microdevice fabrication Basic Qualifications • College background in Bioengineering, Mechanical, Electrical, or Materials Engineering, Physical Sciences, Biomedical fields or a related field • Experimental background in at least one of the fields of microfabrication, sensors, or microfluidics • One or more years’ experience in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), biological microelectromechanical systems (BioMEMS) or micro- and nanofabrication or related experience desirable. Education may count towards experience. Each successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to determine the nature of neural control over molecular, cellular and organ functions of the body, the parts of the brain that regulate those nerves, and the signals that the brain receives to monitor cell and organ function. Projects will focus on determining which nerve fibers exert control, the types of signals those fibers use, and how these signals can be manipulated to treat diseases and conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, paralysis, Crohn’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and even cancer. Please forward CVs to the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine at CBEM(a)northwell.edu Jo Ann Platt The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Cell: (415) 265-0441 350 Community Drive Manhasset, NY 11030 The information contained in this electronic e-mail transmission and any attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom or to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this communication is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this communication and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by telephone and electronic mail, and delete the original communication and any attachment from any computer, server or other electronic recording or storage device or medium. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney-client, physician-patient or other privilege.

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FENS Hertie Winter School 2016 - Memory mechanism in humans.
by Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo (Prof.) Sept. 6, 2016

Sept. 6, 2016

***Apologies for multiple postings*** Dear all, This is to announce the FENS (Federation of European Neuroscience Societies) winter school, organised in collaboration with the Hertie Foundation, on: Memory mechanisms in humans: from physiology to behaviour and computational models http://www.fens.org/Training/FENS-Schools/FENS-Hertie-Winter-School-2016/ Through extensive interactions with leaders in the field, the school will provide a comprehensive overview of both the basic and the latest knowledge about memory functions and their underlying mechanisms in humans. The school is aimed at PhD students and postdocs, preferably working on memory or with a strong interest in this area. Date: 11-17 December 2016 Location: Universitätszentrum, Obergurgl, Austria http://www.uz-obergurgl.at/english/how-to-get-there Course Directors: Rodrigo Quian Quiroga, University of Leicester, UK Simon Thorpe, CNRS – CerCo, Toulouse University, France Faculty Members: Roberto Cabeza - Duke University – USA Christian Döller - Donders Institute - The Netherlands Yadin Dudai - Weizmann Institute - Israel Emrah Duezel - University College London - UK Howard Eichenbaum - Boston University - USA Guillen Fernandez - Donders Institute - The Netherlands Edmund Rolls - Oxford University - UK Andreas Tolias - Baylor College of Medicine, USA Alessandro Treves - International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) - Italy Sylvia Wirth - Univerisity of Lyon - France Applications: http://www.fens.org/Training/FENS-Schools/FENS-Hertie-Winter-School-2016/ Deadline: 12th September 2016. For any questions please contact: Mathilde Maughan (FENS Schools Administration) at: schools(a)fens.org Best, Rodrigo Rodrigo Quian Quiroga Centre for Systems Neuroscience University of Leicester www.le.ac.uk/csn

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Post-doctoral positions (x3) and PhD candidate (x1) positions in neuroimaging data analysis
by Marquand, A.F. (Andre) Sept. 6, 2016

Sept. 6, 2016

We have vacancies for three excellent post-doctoral research associates and one PhD student in the Statistical Imaging Neurosciences group at the Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour and the Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands. These positions will be supervised by Prof. Christian Beckmann and Dr. Andre Marquand and will focus on the development of novel computational and machine learning methods for the analysis of neuroimaging data. The roles are part of different but related projects which have general aims of creating advanced practical tools for multivariate statistical analysis of neuroimaging data and for predicting clinical variables from these data. The group has a strong interest in pattern recognition methods and exploratory data analysis (e.g. Independent Component Analysis) with specific applications of ICA for the investigation of functional connectivity inferred from resting-state fMRI. We aim for an interdisciplinary research approach integrating cognitive neuroimaging, pharmacology, genetics, and applications in diverse clinical disciplines with well-established international collaborations. Requirements Post-doctoral positions: Completion of doctoral degree in a numerate discipline such as statistics, computer science, engineering, cognitive neuroscience / psychology or other relevant field of study. Doctoral candidate: Completion of an undergraduate (and ideally also master's level) degree in one of these fields. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a strong academic track-record, including publications in international journals. These individual should be proficient in fMRI research and have experience with the usage of one or more of the common neuroimaging data analysis platforms (e.g. FSL, SPM, FreeSurfer or AFNI) plus programming skills using MATLAB, Python, R and/or C++. Organization The Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour (http://www.ru.nl/donders/) offers a unique, multidisciplinary working and learning environment with opportunities for developing expertise in a diversity of research areas and techniques. The centre is equipped with three MRI scanners (2 x 3T, 1.5T) and access to a high field (7T) MR system plus a 275-channel MEG system, an EEG-TMS laboratory, several (MR-compatible) EEG systems, and high-performance computational facilities. Website: http://www.ru.nl/donders/ Conditions of employment Employment: 1,0 FTE. Your starting salary will be commensurate with experience. In addition to the monthly gross salary, you will receive two yearly 8% bonuses (holiday and end-of-year). International applicants may qualify for significant income tax reduction under the Netherlands 30% Rule. The post-dotcoral positions are for three years in the first instance (12 months probation period) with a possible extension. The PhD studentship is for four years. Application Please send your application, including a motivation letter, statement of research interest, CV and names with addresses of three persons who can provide references to Christian Beckmann at c <dot> beckmann <at> donders.ru.nl and Andre Marquand a <dot> marquand <at> donders.ru.nl Closing date: Review of applications will continue until the positions are filled.

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[IJCNN 2017] Approaching deadline on Thursday, 15th September 2016
by Teng Teck Hou Sept. 6, 2016

Sept. 6, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ################################################## COMBINED CALLS [DUE ON THURSDAY, 15 SEPTEMBER] CALL FOR COMPETITIONS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-competition CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSIONS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-special-sessions CALL FOR PANELS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-panels CALL FOR WORKSHOPS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops CALL FOR TUTORIALS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials CALL FOR PAPERS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-papers CALL FOR SPONSORS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-sponsors International Joint Conference on Neural Networks May 14-19, 2017, Anchorage, Alaska, USA http://www.ijcnn.org/ ################################################## IJCNN is the premier international conference in the area of neural network theory, analysis, and applications. Co-sponsored by the International Neural Network Society (INNS) and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (IEEE-CIS), over the last three decades this conference and its predecessors has hosted [past, present, and future] leaders of neural network research. IJCNN 2017 will feature invited plenary talks by world-renowned speakers in the areas of neural network theory and applications, computational neuroscience, robotics, and distributed intelligence. In addition to regular technical sessions with oral and poster presentations, the conference program will include special sessions, competitions, tutorials and workshops on topics of current interest. The 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017) will be held at the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage, Alaska, USA, May 14-19, 2017. "... Only in Anchorage can you meet a moose, walk on a glacier and explore a vast, natural park all in a single day. Between mountains and an inlet, surrounded by national parks and filled with Alaska wildlife, Anchorage combines the best of Alaska in a city that has the comforts of home and the hospitality of the Last Frontier. ..." For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook (https://fb.me/ijcnn2017/) and Twitter (@ijcnn2017). ##############################Important Dates############################## * Special Session, Panel Sesion & Competition Proposals September 15, 2016 * Tutorial and Workshop Proposals October 15, 2016 * Paper Submission November 15, 2016 * Paper Decision Notification January 20, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission February 20, 2017 ########################################################################### ##########################Plenary Speakers########################## * Stephen Grossberg, Boston University, USA * Christof Koch, Allen Institute for Brain Science, USA * Hava Siegelmann, DARPA, and University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA * Jose Principle, University of Florida, USA #################################################################### ##########################Call for Competitions########################## Competition organizers are kindly invited to submit their proposals to IJCNN2017 Competition Chair (TBA) by September 15, 2016. The notifications of acceptance of the competition proposals will be provided by TBA and will be shortly publish in the IJCNN 2017 website. Please note that each accepted competition will be published in a separate web link. The competition proposal should contain the following information (please fill out the form at the bottom of this page, or send the required information in the form as a single pdf file to the competition chair [email below]) The aims and objectives of the competition, The rules of the competition, including which data sets will be used, How the competition will serve the neural networks community/society, How to enter the competitions and how to evaluate them, and Which competition platform (or result submission and validation method) you will use (e.g. similar to Kaggle). Summary of performance results directly reported by the competition participants and not verified by the competition organizers are not acceptable. Please note that you need to select a category for your competition from the following list: * Category A: You are planning to organise an associated special session, in which the proposal must be submitted separately to the special session chairs. In addition, you require that each team must submit at least one paper to the special session. * Category B: You are planning to organise an associated special session, whose proposal must be also submitted separately to the special session chairs. However, submission of papers to the special session by competition participants is not mandatory. * Category C: You have no plan to organize an associated special session. Note: For categories B and C, please also indicate whether or not conference participation is required for each entry. Sponsorship A winning certificate and free registration will be provided to the winner of each competition who attends IJCNN 2017. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-competition. If you need any other information, please do not hesitate to contact the IJCNN2017 Competition Chair: Juyang (John) Weng, Michigan State University. E-mail: weng(a)cse.msu.edu ######################################################################### ##########################Call for Special Sessions########################## The IJCNN 2017 Program Committee solicits proposals for special sessions within the technical scopes of the conference. Special sessions, to be organized by international recognized experts, aim to bring together researchers focused in special, novel, and challenging topics. Fast-developing themes such as Deep Learning, Big Data, or applications to fields like chemistry, biology, computer games, robotics, etc. are examples. Papers submitted for special sessions are to be peer-reviewed with the same criteria used for the regular sessions. Researchers interested in organizing special sessions are invited to submit a formal proposal using the on-line form of the Special Sessions webpage. Due to large expected number of submissions, please do not directly email the information to the special session co-chairs Derong Liu, University of Chicago & Chinese Academy of Sciences. Beijing, and Tatiana Tambouratzis, University of Piraeus, Greece. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-special-sessions Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Special Session Chairs: Derong Liu, University of Chicago, USA. E-mail: derong(a)uic.edu Tatiana Tambouriatzis, University of Piraeus, Greece. E-mail: tatianatambouratzis(a)gmail.com ############################################################################ # ##########################Call for Panels########################## The IJCNN 2017 Program Committee solicits proposals for panel sessions to provide forums for lively, interactive discussions among world-leading experts in specific areas. Panel Session proposals are solicited in a broad range of areas related to NNs, including but not limited to the following: hot topics and challenges in NNS, such as Deep learning, Big Data, Brain-Computer Interfaces, new generation of AI; history of NNs, with special emphasis on the upcoming 30th birthday of INNS; government funding opportunities; outreach to industry and to sister societies, and many more. Panel proposals should include the information listed below. Please email the following information in a single file to the Panel Chair (contact information below). * Topic of the panel * Name of proposer(s) * Email of main contact person * Brief bio of proposers * Brief description of the panel and why the panel format is appropriate for the topic. * List of potential panelists Researchers interested in organizing panels are invited to submit a formal proposal. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Panel Chair: Robert Kozma, University of Memphis, USA. Email: rkozma(a)memphis.edu ##################################################################### ##########################Call for Workshops########################## Post-conference workshops offer a unique opportunity for in-depth discussions of specific topics in neural networks and computational intelligence. The workshops should be moderated by scientists or professionals who has significant expertise and /or whose recent work has had a significant impact within their field. IJCNN 2017 will emphasize emerging and growing areas of computational intelligence. Each workshop has a duration of 3 or 6 hours. The format of each workshop will be up to the moderator, and can include interactive presentations as well as panel discussions among participants. These interactions should highlight exciting new developments and current research trends to facilitate a discussion of ideas that will drive the field forward in the coming years. Workshop organizers can prepare various materials including handouts or electronic resources that can be made available for distribution before or after the meeting. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal including the following information as a single file (pdf, doc, etc.) to the workshop chair: * Title * Organizers and their short bio * Brief description of the scope and impact of the workshop * Timeliness of the topic * Confirmed and/or potential speakers * Half day (3 hours) or full day (6 hours) * Link to organizer's web page and/or workshop web site (optional) For further details, please refer http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Workshop Chair: Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. E-mail: liliadis(a)fmenr.duth.gr ###################################################################### ##########################Call for Tutorials########################## IJCNN 2017 will feature pre-conference tutorials addressing fundamental and advanced topics in computational intelligence. Tutorial proposals should be emailed to the Tutorial Chair (see below). A tutorial proposal should include the * Title * Presenter/organizer name(s) and affiliations * Expected enrollment * Abstract (less than 300 words) * Additional outline if needed * Presenter/organizer biography * Links to the presenter/organizer web page or the tutorial page (optional) * The proposal should not exceed two pages in 1.5 space, Times 12 point font. The tutorial format (preliminary) is 1 hour and 45 minutes with a 10-minute break. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Tutorials Chair: Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA. E-mail: ASIM.ROY(a)asu.edu ###################################################################### ##########################Call for Sponsors########################## You are invited to support the 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017), organized by the International Neural Network Society (INNS) and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (IEEE-CIS). This is an ideal way to demonstrate your organization's commitment to the field of artificial intelligence including neural networks, biomorphic systems, computational neuroscience, neuroengineering, and many other areas at the frontier of technological innovation and to publicize this support to many leaders and students in the field. Corporate support is typically used to permit a greater number of students to attend IJCNN at reduced fees without increasing the general registration, and to allow student volunteers to receive complimentary registration. Exhibits by sponsors also help inform researchers especially students and postdocs about relevant applications and opportunities. Corporate support can be targeted to a particular event or activity at the Conference. IJCNN 2017 has four sponsorship levels: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Your support is very important to the conference, and the conference committee ensures that these contributions are well recognized. We list the benefits and costs below. * PLATINUM (US$10,000 or greater contribution) You will get 4 free registrations to the main conference and tutorials and workshops, 4 banquet tickets, 3 exhibition tables. You will also get second choice at naming events at the conference. For example, there are generally two receptions, several lunches and coffee breaks, plus a student reception. Naming of events will be decided based on the amount of the contribution and the order received. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in all conference announcements, on the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will specially acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will have the opportunity to include material and giveaways with the conference material for each attendee You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news * GOLD SPONSORSHIP (US$5,000 or greater contribution) You will get 3 free registrations to the main conference or tutorials and workshops, 3 banquet tickets, 2 exhibition tables. You will also get third choice at naming events at the conference (after the Platinum). For example, there are generally two receptions, several lunches and coffee breaks, plus a student reception. Naming of events will be decided based on the amount of the contribution and the order received. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in all conference announcements, on the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will have the opportunity to include material and giveaways with the conference material for each attendee You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news * SILVER SPONSORSHIP (US$3,000 or greater contribution) You will get 2 free registrations to the main conference or tutorials and workshops, 2 banquet tickets, 1 exhibition table. We will name an event after your company, if there are events left after those named for Platinum and Gold Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news * BRONZE SPONSORSHIP (US$1,500 or greater contribution) You will get 1 free registration to the main conference or tutorials and workshops and 1 banquet ticket. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news Sponsorships at lower levels will be considered, with benefits negotiated between the IJCNN 2017 Sponsorship Chair and the Sponsor. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-sponsors Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Sponsor Chair: Lipo Wang, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. E-mail: elpwang(a)ntu.edu.sg ###################################################################### ############Paper Submission and Publication############ * Regular paper can have up to 8 pages in double-column IEEE Conference format * All papers are to be prepared using IEEE-compliant Latex or Word templates on paper of U.S. letter size. * All submitted papers will be checked for plagiarism through the IEEE CrossCheck system. * Papers with significant overlap with the authors own papers or other papers will be rejected without review. ######################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: NEURAL NETWORK MODELS * Feedforward neural networks * Recurrent neural networks * Self-organizing maps * Radial basis function networks * Attractor neural networks and associative memory * Modular networks * Fuzzy neural networks * Spiking neural networks * Reservoir networks (echo-state networks, liquid-state machines, etc.) * Large-scale neural networks * Other topics in artificial neural networks MACHINE LEARNING * Supervised learning * Unsupervised learning and clustering, (including PCA, and ICA) * Reinforcement learning * Probabilistic and information-theoretic methods * Support vector machines and kernel methods * EM algorithms * Mixture models, ensemble learning, and other meta-learning or committee algorithms * Bayesian, belief, causal, and semantic networks * Statistical and pattern recognition algorithms * Visualization of data * Feature selection, extraction, and aggregation * Evolutionary learning * Hybrid learning methods * Computational power of neural networks * Deep learning * Other topics in machine learning NEURODYNAMICS * Dynamical models of spiking neurons * Synchronization and temporal correlation in neural networks * Dynamics of neural systems * Chaotic neural networks * Dynamics of analog networks * Neural oscillators and oscillator networks * Dynamics of attractor networks * Other topics in neurodynamics COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE * Connectomics * Models of large-scale networks in the nervous system * Models of neurons and local circuits * Models of synaptic learning and synaptic dynamics * Models of neuromodulation * Brain imaging * Analysis of neurophysiological and neuroanatomical data * Cognitive neuroscience * Models of neural development * Models of neurochemical processes * Neuroinformatics * Other topics in computational neuroscience NEURAL MODELS OF PERCEPTION, COGNITION AND ACTION * Neurocognitive networks * Cognitive architectures * Models of conditioning, reward and behavior * Cognitive models of decision-making * Embodied cognition * Cognitive agents * Multi-agent models of group cognition * Developmental and evolutionary models of cognition * Visual system * Auditory system * Olfactory system * Other sensory systems * Attention * Learning and memory * Spatial cognition, representation and navigation * Semantic cognition and language * Neural models of symbolic processing * Reasoning and problem-solving * Working memory and cognitive control * Emotion and motivation * Motor control and action * Dynamical models of coordination and behavior * Consciousness and awareness * Models of sleep and diurnal rhythms * Mental disorders * Other topics in neural models of perception, cognition and action NEUROENGINEERING * Brain-machine interfaces * Neural prostheses * Neuromorphic hardware * Embedded neural systems * Other topics in neuroengineering BIO-INSPIRED AND BIOMORPHIC SYSTEMS * Brain-inspired cognitive architectures * Embodied robotics * Evolutionary robotics * Developmental robotics * Computational models of development * Collective intelligence * Swarms * Autonomous complex systems * Self-configuring systems * Self-healing systems * Self-aware systems * Emotional computation * Artificial life * Other topics in bio-inspired and biomorphic systems APPLICATIONS * Bioinformatics * Biomedical engineering * Data analysis and pattern recognition * Speech recognition and speech production * Robotics * Neurocontrol * Approximate dynamic programming, adaptive critics, and Markov decision processes * Neural network approaches to optimization * Signal processing, image processing, and multi-media * Temporal data analysis, prediction, and forecasting; time series analysis * Communications and computer networks * Data mining and knowledge discovery * Power system applications * Financial engineering applications * Applications in multi-agent systems and social computing * Manufacturing and industrial applications * Expert systems * Clinical applications * Big data applications * Smart grid applications * Other applications CROSS-DISCIPLINARY TOPICS * Hybrid intelligent systems * Swarm intelligence * Sensor networks * Quantum computation * Computational biology * Molecular and DNA computation * Computation in tissues and cells * Artificial immune systems * Other cross-disciplinary topics ################################################################ ##########################Organizing Committee########################## General Chair * Yoonsuck Choe, Texas A and M University, USA Program Chair * Christina Jayne, Robert Gordon University, UK Technical Co-Chairs * Irwin King, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China * Barbara Hammer, University of Bielefeld, Germany Plenary Chair * Cesare Alippi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy Special Session Co-Chairs * Derong Liu, University of Chicago, USA * Tatiana Tambouriatzis, University of Piraeus, Greece Tutorial Chair * Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA Workshop Chair * Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece Poster Session Chair * Richard Duro, Universidad Coruna, Spain Competition Chair * Juyang (John) Weng, Michigan State University, USA Panels Chair * Robert Kozma, University of Memphis, USA Awards Chair * Nikola Kasabov, Auckland University of Technology, Australia Web Reviews Chair * Tomasz Cholewo, Lexmark International Inc., USA Sponsors & Exhibits Chair * Lipo Wang, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Publication Chair * Bill Howell, Natural Resources Canada (retired), Canada International Liaison * Teresa Ludermir, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brazil European Liaison * Danilo P. Mandic, Imperial College, UK Asia-Pacific Liaison * Minho Lee, Kyungpook National University, Korea Neuroscience Liaison * Péter Érdi, Kalamazoo College, USA Robotics Liaison * Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, INRIA, France Industry Liaison * Sven F. Crone, Lancaster University, UK Publicity Co-Chairs * Giacomo Boracchi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy * Simone Scardapane, Sapienza University, Italy * Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore Management University, Singapore Local Arrangements Co-Chairs * Frank W. Moore, University of Alaska, USA * Kenrick Mock, University of Alaska, USA Registration Chair * Jaerock Kwon, Kettering University, USA Webmaster * Jaewook Yoo, Texas A & M University, USA ####################################################################### ##################Sponsoring Organizations################## * INNS - International Neural Network Society * IEEE - Computational Intelligence Society ############################################################

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Faculty positions open in theoretical biology, computational sciences and big data
by Erik De Schutter Sept. 6, 2016

Sept. 6, 2016

Dear all, Faculty recruitment is ongoing in the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University Japan in fields that are of interest members of this mailing list, including: theoretical biology (including theoretical neuroscience), computational sciences and big data analysis. Please go to https://groups.oist.jp/facultypositions for more information. Application deadline is October 24, 2016. Erik De Schutter Full advertisement: Open Faculty Positions The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (www.oist.jp) invites applications for at least 5 new faculty positions as part of its planned expansion. Targeted areas for the current search include*: Chemistry: Chemical Biology; Materials Chemistry (including Polymer Chemistry, Metal-Organic Frameworks) Life Sciences: Cell Biology; Theoretical Biology; Behavioral Learning Theory Mathematics: Discrete Mathematics; Computational Sciences; Big Data Analysis Physics: Quantum Information; Ultracold Physics; Condensed Matter; Cosmology/Gravitational Waves We are seeking applicants with excellent scholarship and creativity. Successful candidates are expected to establish an active program of research, supervise student research and teach in the graduate program. Generous research resources are provided which may be supplemented with external grants. Appointments will be Tenure-Track or Tenured. Starting date is flexible. Applications should include: a letter of intent, CV, summary of previous research, research proposal, and a teaching statement. Information and instructions for submitting applications can be accessed at https://groups.oist.jp/facultypositions *Applications from strong candidates in other fields may be considered. Application Deadline: Noon on Monday, October 24, 2016 (any time zone) The OIST Graduate University offers a world-class research environment with an international research community and opportunities for interdisciplinary research. Research and teaching is conducted in English. The campus is located in a beautiful subtropical setting in Okinawa, Japan. The OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity educator and employer committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff through proactive policies. We provide a family-friendly working environment, including a bilingual child development center on campus. Applications from women and other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged. See https://groups.oist.jp/ged Inquiries should be directed to Professor Gordon Arbuthnott, Dean of Faculty Affairs, faculty-recruiting(a)oist.jp

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Fellowships in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania
by Vijay Balasubramanian Sept. 5, 2016

Sept. 5, 2016

Postdoctoral Fellowships in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience University of Pennsylvania The Computational Neuroscience Initiative (CNI, http://cni.upenn.edu <http://cni.upenn.edu/>) of the University of Pennsylvania seeks exceptional candidates for a CNI Postdoctoral Fellowship. Candidates with strong quantitative skills from a variety of fields including neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, physics, mathematics, and engineering will be considered. The selected Fellows will join an inter-disciplinary research environment in historic Philadelphia. CNI Fellows will be encouraged to foster collaborative research between multiple labs. The CNI supports inter-disciplinary and collaborative research at the frontier of knowledge about the brain, behavior, and the mind. We focus on systems-level approaches that integrate theory and computation with experiment. Our members include faculty, post-docs, and students from multiple programs and departments including neurobiology, cognitive science, psychology, physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, bioengineering, and computer science. Our research and training spans the three major elements of the field of Computational Neuroscience: 1) Theory – understanding the brain as an information-processing machine; 2) Experiments – providing quantitative methods to aid in the design, implementation, analysis, and interpretation of empirical studies that probe all levels of brain function, from molecules to behavior; and 3) Applications – including robotics, brain-machine interfaces, and new clinical tools. Applications should be submitted by email to compneuro(a)sas.upenn.edu <mailto:compneuro@sas.upenn.edu> and should consist of a CV and a cover letter stating the candidate's research experience and reasons for applying to this Fellowship. Please arrange for up two three letters of recommendation to be sent to the same email address with the candidate’s name in the subject line. Review of applications will occur on a rolling basis until the positions are filled The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented individuals from diverse backgrounds (http://jobs.hr.upenn.edu <http://jobs.hr.upenn.edu/>). Vijay Balasubramanian, Director David Brainard, Co-Director Joshua Gold, Co-Director

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The Max Planck Research Group Neural Circuits in Germany is Now Hiring!
by Zaina Batool Sept. 5, 2016

Sept. 5, 2016

Dear all, The Seelig Lab (Max Planck Research Group Neural Circuits) is currently offering two open positions on neural circuits in behaving animals for highly motivated scientists/graduate students interested in studying the role of neuromodulators in neural circuit function across behavorial states in health and disease: - one full-time postdoctoral position - one Ph.D. position More here: http://www.caesar.de/jointhelab0.html Best Regards, Zaina Batool Research Assistant, Max Planck Research Group Neural Circuits Forschungszentrum caesar Tel.: 0228/9656-361 Fax: 0228/9656 E-Mail: zaina.batool(a)caesar.de<mailto:zaina.batool@caesar.de> Forschungszentrum caesar assoziiert mit der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2 53175 Bonn www.caesar.de<http://www.caesar.de/>

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NEST User Workshop 3-4 November 2016 in Karlsruhe, Germany
by Hans Ekkehard Plesser Sept. 2, 2016

Sept. 2, 2016

Dear all! The NEST Initiative is excited to invite all NEST users and developers to the second annual NEST User Workshop on 3-4 November 2016 in Karlsruhe, Germany. The Workshop provides an opportunity for the NEST Community to meet, exchange success stories, swap advice, learn about current developments in and around NEST and spiking network simulation and application. This year, the workshop will focus on the use of spiking networks in Neurorobotics and will kindly be hosted by Forschungszentrum Informatik (FZI) in Karlsruhe, Germany, in collaboration with the Human Brain Project and Forschungszentrum Jülich. The workshop is supported by the Human Brain Project Education Office. Registration for the Workshop is now open at http://indico-jsc.fz-juelich.de/e/nest2016 where you also will find more information about the workshop program and ways to contribute. Deadline for contributions is 18 September, for registration 7 October. Participation is free of charge, but you will have to cover your travel costs. Space is limited, so please register soon! I am looking forward to seeing you in Karlsruhe! Hans Ekkehard Plesser President, The NEST Initiative -- Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser Associate Professor Dept. of Mathematical Sciences and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no Home http://arken.nmbu.no/~plesser

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Opportunity in Open Source Brain project for experienced software developer
by Padraig Gleeson Sept. 2, 2016

Sept. 2, 2016

(Apologies for cross postings) The Open Source Brain initiative (http://www.opensourcebrain.org) is looking to hire an experienced software developer to work on the web infrastructure for collaborative development of models in computational neuroscience as part of our multidisciplinary group <http://silverlab.org/> at University College London: https://goo.gl/kROHnZ This would be a great opportunity for someone who has plenty of experience with Java/JavaScript development (and a good helping of Python and/or Ruby) to get a job at the leading edge of efforts to build a truly open infrastructure for modelling and understanding the brain. Previous experience in computational neuroscience is an advantage, though excellent software development skills in a web environment and a desire to make a difference in this field are essential. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to fully participate in the academic activities related to this initiative including contributing to publications and attending scientific conferences. Deadline for applications is 12th Sept 2016. For informal enquiries, please contact p.gleeson(a)ucl.ac.uk ----------------------------------------------------- Padraig Gleeson Room 321, Anatomy Building Department of Neuroscience, Physiology& Pharmacology University College London Gower Street London WC1E 6BT United Kingdom +44 207 679 3214 p.gleeson(a)ucl.ac.uk -----------------------------------------------------

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Post-doc position in computational cognitive neuroscience at UC Berkeley
by Anne Collins Sept. 1, 2016

Sept. 1, 2016

Hello, I run the Computational Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at UC Berkeley ( https://www.ocf.berkeley.edu/~acollins/) and am looking for a postdoc. *Post-doctoral research position at the CCN lab at UC Berkeley:* My lab investigates reinforcement learning, decision-making and executive functions. I’m looking to hire a post-doc interested in these topics. You should have (or be nearing completion of) a PhD in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, or a related field. Ideal candidates would have expertise collecting and analyzing EEG or fMRI data, experience in developmental or patient studies, or both. Experience in computational modeling is also highly desirable, and programming experience is essential. However, I welcome applications from anyone with experience and interest in RL, decision-making, or executive functions. This position can begin immediately, but the start date is flexible. To apply, please send your CV, contact information for your references, and a short letter about why you’re interested in this position to Anne Collins ( annecollins(a)berkeley.edu) -- Anne Collins Assistant Professor Tolman Hall, 3429 Department of Psychology University of California, Berkeley (510) 664-7146

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Associate professor position in Data Science (Big Data)
by Hans Ekkehard Plesser Sept. 1, 2016

Sept. 1, 2016

The Department of Mathematical Sciences and Technology (IMT) at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) as Ås near Oslo has a permanent, full-time position available for an Associate Professor in Data Sciences (Big Data). The position is part of the University's programme for the recruitment of top researchers, which aims to recruiting an internationally leading, early-career researcher with a high potential for NMBU. The position requires research of high international quality. Big Data is relevant to several of NMBU's academic communities working within the environmental sciences and biosciences, and is especially important in fields of research and teaching in IMT. The goal is for the position to contribute to collaborations in the field across academic communities at IMT and NMBU. The person appointed to the position must therefore have excellent collaboration skills. The position will include: • one PhD Position (3 years) • NOK 0.25 million in operating funds For a detailed description of the position, our expectations and conditions, please see https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/127472/associate-professor-i… Deadline for applications is Oct 1, 2016. Best regards, Hans Ekkehard Plesser -- Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser Associate Professor Dept. of Mathematical Sciences and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no Home http://arken.nmbu.no/~plesser

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Staff Scientists and Postdoctoral Researchers in Neural Data Analysis and Computational Neurosceince at the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine
by Zanos, Theodoros Aug. 31, 2016

Aug. 31, 2016

The Center for Bioelectronic Medicine at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in NY (http://www.feinsteininstitute.org/) is building a multidisciplinary team to revolutionize medicine by determining the nature of neural control over molecular, cellular and organ functions of the body, the parts of the brain that regulate those nerves, and the signals that the brain receives to monitor cell and organ function. Projects will focus on determining which nerve fibers exert control, the types of signals those fibers use, and how these signals can be manipulated to treat diseases and conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, paralysis, Crohn's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, cancer and others. We are currently recruiting for Staff Scientists and Postdoctoral Researchers in the field of neural data analysis and computational neuroscience. The successful candidates will work in the Center for Bioelectronic Medicine, directed by Chad Bouton, in the Neural Decoding and Data Analytics Lab, led by Dr. Theo Zanos. The candidates will work on projects involving development of novel signal processing and machine learning methods to gain insights into: 1. Decoding and encoding mechanisms of the brain and peripheral nerves to and from stimuli, actions and other physiological functions 2. Reinforcement learning approaches used to select neural stimulation parameters and optimize outcomes 3. Beam-forming, blind source separation, and other techniques to directionally transmit or receive neural signals in peripheral nerves 4. Neural circuits through numerical modeling and biomarker profile analysis * PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics or a related field required; experience in one or more of the following areas required: - Analysis of Neural Signals - Computational Neuroscience - Machine Learning (Systems Identification & Reinforcement Learning) * Strong Matlab programming skills required, Python and C++ programming experience preferred. * For the Staff Scientist position, applicants must have a minimum of three (3) years of relevant postdoctoral experience. Please forward CV, cover letter and 2 references to CBEM(a)northwell.edu, with the subject line "Post-Doc / Research Scientist in the Neural Decoding and Data Analytics Lab". Theodoros Zanos, PhD Asst Investigator Neural Decoding and Data Analytics Lab Center for Bioelectronic Medicine The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research 350 Community Drive Manhasset, NY 11030 Tel: (516) 562-1204 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@01D203AA.333A0610] The information contained in this electronic e-mail transmission and any attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom or to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this communication is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this communication to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this communication and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by telephone and electronic mail, and delete the original communication and any attachment from any computer, server or other electronic recording or storage device or medium. Receipt by anyone other than the intended recipient is not a waiver of any attorney-client, physician-patient or other privilege.

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SfN2016 Satellite Symposium "Collaborative Neuroscience and Enabling Infrastructure"
by emuller Aug. 31, 2016

Aug. 31, 2016

ANNOUNCEMENT Human Brain Project Satellite Symposium to SfN 2016 "Collaborative Neuroscience and Enabling Infrastructure" When: 1pm-5pm, November 11th, 2016 Where: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, Room: Cortez Hill ABC Organizers: Marc-Oliver Gewaltig, Eilif Muller, Jeff Muller, David Lester, Andrew Davison Participants are kindly asked to register using the following link (google forms): https://goo.gl/forms/0uuu4rW5yW3epgNm2 OVERVIEW The EU funded Human Brain Project is developing six research platforms in the areas of Neuroinformatics, High-Performance Computing, Brain Simulation, Medical Informatics, Neuromorphic Computing and Neurorobotics to support international research. This symposium brings together researchers and engineers from the Human Brain Project (HBP) with the larger neuroscience community to discuss how the HBP Platforms can catalyze collaborative neuroscience research by the community, and highlight selected complementary initiatives to explore synergies. We will provide an introduction to the Human Brain Project platforms, "The HBP Collaboratory", with a focus on neuroscientific use-cases available as of the initial public release of spring 2016, and first success stories. For further details see the website: https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/sfn-2016-satellite

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University of Surrey: Professorial appointment in the Nature Inspired Computing and Engineering Group
by a.gruning＠surrey.ac.uk Aug. 31, 2016

Aug. 31, 2016

Dear Colleagues, the University of Surrey has a job opening for a professorship, see the details below or at http://jobs.surrey.ac.uk/060916 Best, Andre The University of Surrey is an international university with a world-class research profile and an enterprising spirit. The University has an outstanding record in student employment and teaching excellence. The Department of Computer Science embodies the ethos of “applying theory into practice” across its research and teaching activities. The Department of Computer Science within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences has an international reputation for research and teaching. Research in the department is focussed on two main areas - Nature Inspired Computing and Engineering (NICE), and Secure Systems, with Surrey hosting one of only 13 Academic Centres of Excellence recognised by GCHQ. This post offers an exciting opportunity for a Professorial appointment in the Nature Inspired Computing and Engineering group. The vision of the group is to better human life and the environment by understanding and simulating how nature works. The successful candidate will provide leadership in research in machine learning at the highest level and develop strategic partnerships. We welcome applications from both academia and industry. We are open to a variety of machine learning and cognitive systems specialisms that are related to, or complement current strengths of the group including (but not limited to): computational intelligence, computational neuroscience, with applications to data-driven engineering optimisation, self-organising and autonomous systems, health care and bioinformatics. It is expected that the post-holder will also contribute to high quality teaching at undergraduate and post-graduate level, for example in data science. The initial focus of the post is working as part of the senior team to drive forward machine learning research within the Department, across the University and internationally with academia and industry. The Department has excellent links with Honda, The Pirbright Institute and Moorfields Hospital. It offers the unique opportunity to grow interdisciplinary research within Surrey, for example with the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences involving the Surrey Sleep Research Centre and within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences which has expertise in machine learning across several of its Departments and research centres. The Department is implementing a strong growth plan which has seen its academic staff base increase by over 35% in the last year, with a focus on security. The Department has now prioritised future growth in the area of machine learning research and immediately after the appointment to this Chair the Department intends to appoint a further faculty member at Lecturer level alongside this post. For an informal discussion about the positions, please contact the Head of Department of Computer Science, Dr Helen Treharne on h.treharne(a)surrey.ac.uk or Professor Paul Krause, Director of Research, on p.krause(a)surrey.ac.uk. A search exercise is being undertaken by Society who will support the University Panel decision to identify the widest possible field of candidates and assist in their assessment. For further details, including job description, person specification and information on how to apply, please contact www.society-search.com quoting reference 0475 or to discuss the position further contact Nina Patel on +(0) 44 20 36530479 The closing date is 3rd October 2016 at 5pm (GMT). Interviews will be held in on 19th and 20th October, in Guildford. Presentations will be given on the afternoon of 19th October 2016 and the interviews will follow on the 20th October, 2016. It is expected that candidates will participate on both days. The start date is anticipated to be April 2017 (or earlier). Visits to Guildford and to the Department can be arranged for short-listed candidates, in advance of the interview date. The University is committed to building a culturally diverse organisation and strongly encourages applications from female and minority candidates. -- Dr Andre Gruning Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) Department of Computer Science University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH United Kingdom

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Workshop in Brisbane, Nov 28-30
by Leonardo Gollo Aug. 30, 2016

Aug. 30, 2016

Dear all, It is a pleasure to announce the 9th Australasian Workshop on Neuro-Engineering and Computational Neuroscience that will be held in Brisbane, Australia, November 28-30. The workshop will bring together researchers at the interface between neuroscience, physics, engineering and psychiatry. Abstract submissions are closing on the 5th of September and there are limited places for the short course on Deep Learning. Topics include: - Theoretical, Mathematical & Computational Neuroscience - Computational Psychiatry - Neuroimaging - Connectomics & Networks - M/EEG & Electrophysiology - Neural Modeling & Engineering - Neuromorphic Engineering - Neuroprosthetics & Brain Machine Interfaces - Neural Information Processing - Neuroinformatics - Cognitive Neuroscience - Systems Neuroscience - Neurostimulation Keynote speakers: - Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University - Rosalyn Moran, University of Bristol - James Rowe, University of Cambridge Additional invited speakers: TBA. Abstract submission: http://conference.qimrberghofer.edu.au/page/NeuroEng/ Kind regards, Leonardo L Gollo, James Roberts, Vinh Nguyen, Michael Breakspear

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Neuroimaging engineer position
by paulo rodrigues Aug. 29, 2016

Aug. 29, 2016

Hi all, We are looking for an experienced and motivated neuroimaging engineer/scientist to start asap. Please send your CV/motivation to team(a)mint-labs.com You are experienced in volumetric, diffusion, rs-fMRI studies, and are not shy about Python, bash, R or whatever tool fits the work? Do you know the plethora of tools like mrtrix, ANTs, freesurfer, dipy, nipype, ...? The challenge is to develop analysis systems for multidimensional medical datasets. Mint Labs is a cloud computing platform that focus on integrating diverse clinical, imaging, genomic, and other data to better evaluate disease progression and response to interventions. You will start a new project focusing on using these methods to answer some pertinent questions in MR. You thrive in developing pipelines to process imaging data, and integrate multiple data points into meaningful group conclusions? Objectives of the position -------------------------- The position hinges on building sophisticated processing pipelines for neuroimaging datasets. Building, improving advanced morphometrics and brain-parcellation techniques in structural MRI, dMRI, rs-fMRI. Support the interaction with several external research partners and clients to develop neuroimaging analysis. About Mint Labs -------------------------- Mint Labs is a Barcelona based startup building a neuroimaging data analytics cloud-based platform. The system employs software tools to integrate thousands of images and data from a patient and creates a specific detailed 3D map of the brain. We can quantify the effect of the treatment in the damage of the brain and characterise patients for clinical trials. The images are directly sent from the scanners to our servers, and there the data is automatically processed and analysed.

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Job offer in computational neuroscience
by Irene Yujnovsky Aug. 26, 2016

Aug. 26, 2016

Hi! we currently have an open post-doctoral position for a neuroinformatician in Marseille, France. You will find the ad below, feel free to diffuse it to potentially interested candidates: *Neuro**informatician/Mathematical modeler* *TNG Team, **Institute of System**Neuroscience (INS**), Marseille, FRANCE***** A post-doctoral position is open in the Theoretical Neurosciences Group (TNG) <http://ins.univ-amu.fr/research-teams/theoretical-neurosciences-group/>directed by Viktor JIRSA at the Institute of System Neuroscience (INS) for an experienced computational neuroscientist to work in modeling brain networks with the aim of creating individual Virtual Patient dementia models using The Virtual Brain platform as framework (see http://www.thevirtualbrain.org) This research project will be conducted in the context of the Aetionomy European consortium (IMI). *Qualification* Candidates must be highly motivated to work on an interdisciplinary project and collaborate with the various members of the consortium. They should have a PhD degree in computational neuroscience, mathematical modeling or equivalent level of knowledge. A strong background in data fitting (Bayesian approaches, Dynamical Causal Modeling (DCM), Monte Carlo techniques) will be highly appreciated. Candidates must be comfortable working in computational environmentsand possess excellent programming skills. Experience with The Virtual Brain platform would be considered an advantage. *The Theoretical Neuroscience group* We are a multi-national team interested in understanding the mechanisms underlying the spatiotemporal organization of large-scale brain networks. Our work comprises mathematical and computational modeling of large-scale network dynamics and human brain imaging data, the development of neuroinformatics tools for studying large-scale brain networks applied to concrete functions, dysfunctions (epilepsy, dementia) and aging. *Terms of salary and employment* A 12-month renewable contract will be established. Salary will depend on the diploma and experience. Operating language in the laboratory is English. Applications including a cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names of two referees should be sent by September 30^th 2016 to: *Dr. Irene Yujnovsky* at irene.yujnovsky(a)univ-amu.frMore information about the INS and the Theoretical Neurosciences Group can be found at: http://bit.ly/29kub1k Thank you very much, Irene Yujnovsky -- --------------------------------------------------- Irene Yujnovsky, PhD Chef de projet EPINEXT Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes Inserm UMR1106 Université Aix-Marseille Faculté de Médecine, 27, Boulevard Jean Moulin 13005 Marseille, France Phone: +33 (0)491324239 email: irene.yujnovsky(a)univ-amu.fr Website: http://epinext.org/

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[IJCNN 2017] Combined Calls
by Teng Teck Hou Aug. 25, 2016

Aug. 25, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ################################################## COMBINED CALLS CALL FOR PAPERS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-papers CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSIONS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-special-sessions CALL FOR WORKSHOPS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops CALL FOR TUTORIALS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials CALL FOR COMPETITIONS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-competition CALL FOR SPONSORS http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-sponsors International Joint Conference on Neural Networks May 14-19, 2017, Anchorage, Alaska, USA http://www.ijcnn.org/ ################################################## IJCNN is the premier international conference in the area of neural network theory, analysis, and applications. Co-sponsored by the International Neural Network Society (INNS) and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (IEEE-CIS), over the last three decades this conference and its predecessors has hosted [past, present, and future] leaders of neural network research. IJCNN 2017 will feature invited plenary talks by world-renowned speakers in the areas of neural network theory and applications, computational neuroscience, robotics, and distributed intelligence. In addition to regular technical sessions with oral and poster presentations, the conference program will include special sessions, competitions, tutorials and workshops on topics of current interest. The 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017) will be held at the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage, Alaska, USA, May 14-19, 2017. "... Only in Anchorage can you meet a moose, walk on a glacier and explore a vast, natural park all in a single day. Between mountains and an inlet, surrounded by national parks and filled with Alaska wildlife, Anchorage combines the best of Alaska in a city that has the comforts of home and the hospitality of the Last Frontier. ..." For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook (https://fb.me/ijcnn2017/) and Twitter (@ijcnn2017). ##############################Important Dates############################## * Special Session, Panel Sesion & Competition Proposals September 15, 2016 * Tutorial and Workshop Proposals October 15, 2016 * Paper Submission November 15, 2016 * Paper Decision Notification January 20, 2017 * Camera-Ready Submission February 20, 2017 ########################################################################### ##########################Plenary Speakers########################## * Christof Koch, Allen Institute for Brain Science, USA * Hava Siegelmann, DARPA, and University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA * Jose Principle, University of Florida, USA #################################################################### ##########################Call for Special Sessions########################## The IJCNN 2017 Program Committee solicits proposals for special sessions within the technical scopes of the conference. Special sessions, to be organized by international recognized experts, aim to bring together researchers focused in special, novel, and challenging topics. Fast-developing themes such as Deep Learning, Big Data, or applications to fields like chemistry, biology, computer games, robotics, etc. are examples. Papers submitted for special sessions are to be peer-reviewed with the same criteria used for the regular sessions. Researchers interested in organizing special sessions are invited to submit a formal proposal using the on-line form of the Special Sessions webpage. Due to large expected number of submissions, please do not directly email the information to the special session co-chairs Derong Liu, University of Chicago & Chinese Academy of Sciences. Beijing, and Tatiana Tambouratzis, University of Piraeus, Greece. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-special-sessions Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Special Session Chairs: Derong Liu, University of Chicago, USA. E-mail: derong(a)uic.edu Tatiana Tambouriatzis, University of Piraeus, Greece. E-mail: tatianatambouratzis(a)gmail.com ############################################################################ # ##########################Call for Workshops########################## Post-conference workshops offer a unique opportunity for in-depth discussions of specific topics in neural networks and computational intelligence. The workshops should be moderated by scientists or professionals who has significant expertise and /or whose recent work has had a significant impact within their field. IJCNN 2017 will emphasize emerging and growing areas of computational intelligence. Each workshop has a duration of 3 or 6 hours. The format of each workshop will be up to the moderator, and can include interactive presentations as well as panel discussions among participants. These interactions should highlight exciting new developments and current research trends to facilitate a discussion of ideas that will drive the field forward in the coming years. Workshop organizers can prepare various materials including handouts or electronic resources that can be made available for distribution before or after the meeting. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal including the following information as a single file (pdf, doc, etc.) to the workshop chair: Title Organizers and their short bio Brief description of the scope and impact of the workshop Timeliness of the topic Confirmed and/or potential speakers Half day (3 hours) or full day (6 hours) Link to organizer's web page and/or workshop web site (optional) For further details, please refer http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-workshops. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Workshop Chair: Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. E-mail: liliadis(a)fmenr.duth.gr ###################################################################### ##########################Call for Tutorials########################## IJCNN 2017 will feature pre-conference tutorials addressing fundamental and advanced topics in computational intelligence. Tutorial proposals should be emailed to the Tutorial Chair (see below). A tutorial proposal should include the Title Presenter/organizer name(s) and affiliations Expected enrollment Abstract (less than 300 words) Additional outline if needed Presenter/organizer biography Links to the presenter/organizer web page or the tutorial page (optional) The proposal should not exceed two pages in 1.5 space, Times 12 point font. The tutorial format (preliminary) is 1 hour and 45 minutes with a 10-minute break. Researchers interested in organizing workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-tutorials. Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Tutorials Chair: Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA. E-mail: ASIM.ROY(a)asu.edu ###################################################################### ##########################Call for Competitions########################## Competition organizers are kindly invited to submit their proposals to IJCNN2017 Competition Chair (TBA) by September 15, 2016. The notifications of acceptance of the competition proposals will be provided by TBA and will be shortly publish in the IJCNN 2017 website. Please note that each accepted competition will be published in a separate web link. The competition proposal should contain the following information (please fill out the form at the bottom of this page, or send the required information in the form as a single pdf file to the competition chair [email below]) The aims and objectives of the competition, The rules of the competition, including which data sets will be used, How the competition will serve the neural networks community/society, How to enter the competitions and how to evaluate them, and Which competition platform (or result submission and validation method) you will use (e.g. similar to Kaggle). Summary of performance results directly reported by the competition participants and not verified by the competition organizers are not acceptable. Please note that you need to select a category for your competition from the following list: Category A: You are planning to organise an associated special session, in which the proposal must be submitted separately to the special session chairs. In addition, you require that each team must submit at least one paper to the special session. Category B: You are planning to organise an associated special session, whose proposal must be also submitted separately to the special session chairs. However, submission of papers to the special session by competition participants is not mandatory. Category C: You have no plan to organize an associated special session. Note: For categories B and C, please also indicate whether or not conference participation is required for each entry. Sponsorship A winning certificate and free registration will be provided to the winner of each competition who attends IJCNN 2017. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-competition. If you need any other information, please do not hesitate to contact the IJCNN2017 Competition Chair: Juyang (John) Weng, Michigan State University. E-mail: weng(a)cse.msu.edu ######################################################################### ##########################Call for Sponsors########################## You are invited to support the 2017 International Joint Conference on Neural Networks (IJCNN 2017), organized by the International Neural Network Society (INNS) and the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (IEEE-CIS). This is an ideal way to demonstrate your organization's commitment to the field of artificial intelligence including neural networks, biomorphic systems, computational neuroscience, neuroengineering, and many other areas at the frontier of technological innovation and to publicize this support to many leaders and students in the field. Corporate support is typically used to permit a greater number of students to attend IJCNN at reduced fees without increasing the general registration, and to allow student volunteers to receive complimentary registration. Exhibits by sponsors also help inform researchers especially students and postdocs about relevant applications and opportunities. Corporate support can be targeted to a particular event or activity at the Conference. IJCNN 2017 has four sponsorship levels: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Your support is very important to the conference, and the conference committee ensures that these contributions are well recognized. We list the benefits and costs below. PLATINUM (US$10,000 or greater contribution) You will get 4 free registrations to the main conference and tutorials and workshops, 4 banquet tickets, 3 exhibition tables. You will also get second choice at naming events at the conference. For example, there are generally two receptions, several lunches and coffee breaks, plus a student reception. Naming of events will be decided based on the amount of the contribution and the order received. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in all conference announcements, on the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will specially acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will have the opportunity to include material and giveaways with the conference material for each attendee You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news GOLD SPONSORSHIP (US$5,000 or greater contribution) You will get 3 free registrations to the main conference or tutorials and workshops, 3 banquet tickets, 2 exhibition tables. You will also get third choice at naming events at the conference (after the Platinum). For example, there are generally two receptions, several lunches and coffee breaks, plus a student reception. Naming of events will be decided based on the amount of the contribution and the order received. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in all conference announcements, on the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will have the opportunity to include material and giveaways with the conference material for each attendee You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news SILVER SPONSORSHIP (US$3,000 or greater contribution) You will get 2 free registrations to the main conference or tutorials and workshops, 2 banquet tickets, 1 exhibition table. We will name an event after your company, if there are events left after those named for Platinum and Gold Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news BRONZE SPONSORSHIP (US$1,500 or greater contribution) You will get 1 free registration to the main conference or tutorials and workshops and 1 banquet ticket. Your company or institution (with logo and URL) will be listed in the advance program, and on the conference web pages, at www.ijcnn.org We will acknowledge your company's contribution and offer thanks at the opening and closing sessions of the conference You will get early notification direct from the Corporate Support Chair of conference news Sponsorships at lower levels will be considered, with benefits negotiated between the IJCNN 2017 Sponsorship Chair and the Sponsor. For further details, please refer to http://www.ijcnn.org/call-for-sponsors Any questions regarding this proposal can be asked to the Sponsor Chair: Lipo Wang, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. E-mail: elpwang(a)ntu.edu.sg ###################################################################### ############Paper Submission and Publication############ * Regular paper can have up to 8 pages in double-column IEEE Conference format * All papers are to be prepared using IEEE-compliant Latex or Word templates on paper of U.S. letter size. * All submitted papers will be checked for plagiarism through the IEEE CrossCheck system. * Papers with significant overlap with the authors own papers or other papers will be rejected without review. ######################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This conference solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: NEURAL NETWORK MODELS * Feedforward neural networks * Recurrent neural networks * Self-organizing maps * Radial basis function networks * Attractor neural networks and associative memory * Modular networks * Fuzzy neural networks * Spiking neural networks * Reservoir networks (echo-state networks, liquid-state machines, etc.) * Large-scale neural networks * Other topics in artificial neural networks MACHINE LEARNING * Supervised learning * Unsupervised learning and clustering, (including PCA, and ICA) * Reinforcement learning * Probabilistic and information-theoretic methods * Support vector machines and kernel methods * EM algorithms * Mixture models, ensemble learning, and other meta-learning or committee algorithms * Bayesian, belief, causal, and semantic networks * Statistical and pattern recognition algorithms * Visualization of data * Feature selection, extraction, and aggregation * Evolutionary learning * Hybrid learning methods * Computational power of neural networks * Deep learning * Other topics in machine learning NEURODYNAMICS * Dynamical models of spiking neurons * Synchronization and temporal correlation in neural networks * Dynamics of neural systems * Chaotic neural networks * Dynamics of analog networks * Neural oscillators and oscillator networks * Dynamics of attractor networks * Other topics in neurodynamics COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE * Connectomics * Models of large-scale networks in the nervous system * Models of neurons and local circuits * Models of synaptic learning and synaptic dynamics * Models of neuromodulation * Brain imaging * Analysis of neurophysiological and neuroanatomical data * Cognitive neuroscience * Models of neural development * Models of neurochemical processes * Neuroinformatics * Other topics in computational neuroscience NEURAL MODELS OF PERCEPTION, COGNITION AND ACTION * Neurocognitive networks * Cognitive architectures * Models of conditioning, reward and behavior * Cognitive models of decision-making * Embodied cognition * Cognitive agents * Multi-agent models of group cognition * Developmental and evolutionary models of cognition * Visual system * Auditory system * Olfactory system * Other sensory systems * Attention * Learning and memory * Spatial cognition, representation and navigation * Semantic cognition and language * Neural models of symbolic processing * Reasoning and problem-solving * Working memory and cognitive control * Emotion and motivation * Motor control and action * Dynamical models of coordination and behavior * Consciousness and awareness * Models of sleep and diurnal rhythms * Mental disorders * Other topics in neural models of perception, cognition and action NEUROENGINEERING * Brain-machine interfaces * Neural prostheses * Neuromorphic hardware * Embedded neural systems * Other topics in neuroengineering BIO-INSPIRED AND BIOMORPHIC SYSTEMS * Brain-inspired cognitive architectures * Embodied robotics * Evolutionary robotics * Developmental robotics * Computational models of development * Collective intelligence * Swarms * Autonomous complex systems * Self-configuring systems * Self-healing systems * Self-aware systems * Emotional computation * Artificial life * Other topics in bio-inspired and biomorphic systems APPLICATIONS * Bioinformatics * Biomedical engineering * Data analysis and pattern recognition * Speech recognition and speech production * Robotics * Neurocontrol * Approximate dynamic programming, adaptive critics, and Markov decision processes * Neural network approaches to optimization * Signal processing, image processing, and multi-media * Temporal data analysis, prediction, and forecasting; time series analysis * Communications and computer networks * Data mining and knowledge discovery * Power system applications * Financial engineering applications * Applications in multi-agent systems and social computing * Manufacturing and industrial applications * Expert systems * Clinical applications * Big data applications * Smart grid applications * Other applications CROSS-DISCIPLINARY TOPICS * Hybrid intelligent systems * Swarm intelligence * Sensor networks * Quantum computation * Computational biology * Molecular and DNA computation * Computation in tissues and cells * Artificial immune systems * Other cross-disciplinary topics ################################################################ ##########################Organizing Committee########################## General Chair * Yoonsuck Choe, Texas A and M University, USA Program Chair * Christina Jayne, Robert Gordon University, UK Technical Co-Chairs * Irwin King, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China * Barbara Hammer, University of Bielefeld, Germany Plenary Chair * Cesare Alippi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy Special Session Co-Chairs * Derong Liu, University of Chicago, USA * Tatiana Tambouriatzis, University of Piraeus, Greece Tutorial Chair * Asim Roy, Arizona State University, USA Workshop Chair * Lazaros Iliadis, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece Poster Session Chair * Richard Duro, Universidad Coruna, Spain Competition Chair * Juyang (John) Weng, Michigan State University, USA Panels Chair * Robert Kozma, University of Memphis, USA Awards Chair * Nikola Kasabov, Auckland University of Technology, Australia Web Reviews Chair * Tomasz Cholewo, Lexmark International Inc., USA Sponsors & Exhibits Chair * Lipo Wang, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Publication Chair * Bill Howell, Natural Resources Canada (retired), Canada International Liaison * Teresa Ludermir, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brazil European Liaison * Danilo P. Mandic, Imperial College, UK Asia-Pacific Liaison * Minho Lee, Kyungpook National University, Korea Neuroscience Liaison * Péter Érdi, Kalamazoo College, USA Robotics Liaison * Pierre-Yves Oudeyer, INRIA, France Industry Liaison * Sven F. Crone, Lancaster University, UK Publicity Co-Chairs * Giacomo Boracchi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy * Simone Scardapane, Sapienza University, Italy * Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore Management University, Singapore Local Arrangements Co-Chairs * Frank W. Moore, University of Alaska, USA * Kenrick Mock, University of Alaska, USA Registration Chair * Jaerock Kwon, Kettering University, USA Webmaster * Jaewook Yoo, Texas A & M University, USA ####################################################################### ##################Sponsoring Organizations################## * INNS - International Neural Network Society * IEEE - Computational Intelligence Society ############################################################

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[Big Data NLP Workshop @ IEEE Big Data 2016] Call For Papers
by Teng Teck Hou Aug. 24, 2016

Aug. 24, 2016

Big Data and Natural Language Processing workshop hosted at IEEE Big Data 2016 http://wp.lancs.ac.uk/bignlp2016/ The modality of textual data has been somewhat under-represented in big data and data science research thus far. This is despite the fact that large amounts of data are stored in unstructured textual format. We intend that this workshop will address this shortcoming and bring together academic and industrial researchers to exchange cutting edge research in the emerging area of extremely large-scale natural language processing (NLP). This topic has emerged in several areas in parallel in recent years: information retrieval and search engines, text mining, machine learning, web-derived corpus/computational linguistics, digital libraries, high performance and parallel computing. Common to all these areas is some or all of the main parts of the NLP pipeline: collection, cleaning, annotation, indexing, storage, retrieval and analysis of voluminous quantities of naturally occurring language data from the web or large-scale national and international digitisation initiatives. By hosting this event at IEEE Big Data 2016, we hope to encourage the communities to come together to consider synergies between NLP and data science. In this context, numerous issues should be considered including those linked to the five Vs of big data: (a) Volume: is having more data for training and testing NLP techniques always better? (b) Variety: are all types of data available on a sufficiently large scale? (c) Velocity: how are parallel methods best applied to carry out NLP on a large scale? (d) Variability: how does inconsistent data impact on the accuracy of NLP techniques? (e) Veracity: how does the accuracy of data affect inferences that can be drawn from it? Research topics: Topics covered by the workshop include, but are not restricted to, the following: Application focused papers e.g. security informatics Crowdsourcing approaches to large-scale language analysis Use of big data to train/test methods for low resource languages where existing NLP approaches do not exist Efficient NLP for analysing large data sets Challenges of scaling the NLP pipeline Big Data Management for NLP Storage and access for large linguistic data sets Language processing via GPGPUs Parallel and distributed computing techniques for language analysis e.g. HPC, MapReduce, Hadoop, Spark and cloud based machine learning Visualisation methods for the analysis of large corpora Dates: Oct 3, 2016: Due date for full workshop papers submission Oct 25, 2016: Notification of paper acceptance to authors Nov 8, 2016: Camera-ready of accepted papers Dec 5-8, 2016: Workshops Program Chairs: Dr Paul Rayson (Lancaster University, UK) Dr Mark Stevenson (Sheffield University, UK) Dr John Mariani (Lancaster University, UK) Dr Laura Irina Rusu (IBM Research Australia) Gandhi Sivakumar (Watson CoC, IBM Australia) Program committee members: Dr Nikos Aletras (Amazon UK) Dr Enrique Alfonseca (Google Zurich) Professor Laurence Anthony (Waseda University, Japan) Dr Piotr Banski (IDS-Mannheim, Germany) Dr Alistair Baron (Lancaster University, UK) Dr Eddie Bell (Lyst, UK) Matt Coole (Lancaster University, UK) Professor John Keane (University of Manchester, UK) Dr Dawn Knight (Cardiff University, UK) Dr Marc Kupietz (IDS-Mannheim, Germany) Dr Jochen Leidner (Thomson Reuters, UK) Dr Diana Maynard (Sheffield University, UK) Dr Rao Muhammad Adeel Nawab (COMSATS, Pakistan) Dr Sebastian Riedel (UCL, UK) Dr Mahsa Salehi (IBM Research, Australia) Dr Irena Spasic (Cardiff University, UK) Dr Stephen Wattam (Lancaster University, UK)

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Three-year postdoc position at Imperial College London: Computational auditory neuroscience and neurostimulation
by Reichenbach, Johann D T Aug. 18, 2016

Aug. 18, 2016

Applications are invited for a Research Associate (Postdoc) to work on an exciting 3 year project in computational auditory neuroscience and neurostimulation at Imperial College London. The successful candidate will join the group of Dr. Tobias Reichenbach (http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/reichenbach) The project is embedded in The Royal British Legion Centre for Blast Injury Studies at Imperial College (http://www.imperial.ac.uk/blast-injury) The project's goal is to develop efficient complex transcranial current stimulation techniques that can aid auditory processing. Auditory processing can be impaired due to damage to the neural circuits that are responsible for analysing auditory signals. Such damage to the central nervous system can result from head injury that can, in turn, be caused by secondary and tertiary blast injuries. Recent studies have found that the majority of war veterans that were exposed to at least one blast during their deployment have such auditory processing disorder. In this project we will employ novel computational and experimental insights into the mechanisms of speech processing in the brain to develop efficient types of complex transcranial current stimulation that can aid auditory processing. Applicants should have a PhD in computational neuroscience, engineering, physics or computing with experience in signal processing as well as neurostimulation or -imaging. The salary range is £36,070 - £43,350 per annum. For an informal discussion please contact Dr Tobias Reichenbach (email: reichenbach(a)imperial.ac.uk<mailto:a.kedgley@imperial.ac.uk>; telephone: +44 (0)20 759 46370). Our preferred method of application is online via our website. Please click ‘apply’ below or go to https://www.imperial.ac.uk/job-applicants/ (Select “Job Search” then enter the job title or vacancy reference number into “Keywords”). Please complete and upload an application form as directed quoting reference number EN20160296FH. Further information is also available on the job description. Should you have any queries please contact Ms Mica Jones at mica.jones(a)imperial.ac.uk<mailto:mica.jones@imperial.ac.uk> . The closing date is the 2nd of October 2016.

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Call for Paper MediTec 2016 (International Conference on Medical Engineering, Health Informatics and Technology)
by MediTec 2016 Aug. 13, 2016

Aug. 13, 2016

*(Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this CFP)* *Dear Sir/Madam,* This letter is to formally invite you to participate and submit your research works in the “*2016 International Conference on Medical Engineering, Health Informatics and Technology (MediTec 2016)*” themed "*Smart Systems for Healthcare*" from *17-18 December 2016,* which will take place at United International University (UIU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. *MediTec 2016* is technically co-sponsored by IEEE-EMBS Bangladesh Chapter and IEEE Bangladesh Section. This conference aims to bring together researchers, engineers, doctors, medical practitioners and experts in Bio-medical engineering, Healthcare, Intelligent Systems and Knowledge Management to share their experience, ideas and future scopes. Distinguished scientists, experts from both academia and industries will deliver keynote speeches and invited talks on trends and significant advances in the emerging technologies related to the conference topics. For the list of confirmed speakers, please *click here.* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/speakers/> *Major areas of interest include, but not limited to, are:* 1. Biomedical and Health Informatics 2. Biomedical Signal and Image Processing 3. Therapeutic Systems and Clinical Technologies 4. Neuro and Rehabilitation Engineering 5. Biorobotics, Bionanotechnology and Wearable Biomedical Sensors and Systems 6. Computational Biology and Bioinformatics 7. Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 8. ICT, Health and Disabilities Please find the attachment for detailed *Call For Paper* or visit *here* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Meditech-2016_A4_Poster…> . *Important Dates:* Paper Submission Deadline 30 August 2016 Acceptance Notification 15 October 2016 Camera Ready Submission 10 November 2016 Registration Early Bird: 15 November 2016 Late: Afterwards All the accepted papers will be included in Conference Proceedings and all the presented papers will be submitted to *IEEE Xplore Digital Library*. Selected papers from the conference proceedings will be invited for possible publication in special issues of some reputed international journals. Paper submission for *MediTec 2016* is now open. *Click here to Submit Your Paper. <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=meditec2016>* For more information, please visit conference website *http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd* <http://meditec.uiu.ac.bd/>*.* Kindly promote *MediTec 2016* to interested individuals, researchers and communities in your vicinity. We look forward to meet you in the conference. Thanking you, Best Regards, Khondaker A. Mamun, *Ph.D.* Conference Chair, MediTec 2016 Email: meditec(a)uiu.ac.bd Cell: +880 1776534220 Director, AIMS Lab (www.aimsl.uiu.ac.bd) Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering ( www.cse.uiu.ac.bd) United International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh (www.uiu.ac.bd) Chair, IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, Bangladesh Chapter Initiator, Bangladesh Research and Awareness Initiative of Neuroscience (BRAIN) Email: k.mamun(a)ieee.org, mamun(a)cse.uiu.ac.bd, k.mamun(a)utoronto.ca, mamun79bd(a)yahoo.com URL: http://cse.uiu.ac.bd/faculty/kmamun/

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programmer wanted -- neuroscience and neuroprosthetics lab
by Sliman Bensmaia Aug. 12, 2016

Aug. 12, 2016

Lab at the cutting edge of neuroscience and neurotechnology looking for a programmer to keep us at the cutting edge! The lab has two general pursuits: discover the neural basis of touch and proprioception – how do patterns of activation in the nerve and in the brain mediate our ability to feel objects by touch and sense the position and movements of our limbs in space? – and to develop a somatosensory neuroprosthesis – How can we recreate the sense of touch by stimulating the nerve or the brain. See http://bensmaialab.org for additional information regarding the lab and the exciting work we are doing. Ideally, looking for a motivated, intelligent individual who works well with people, someone who might be able to make a long term commitment to the lab and help us build something special. JOB SUMMARY Responsible for interfacing the various machines in the lab (robots, sensors, data acquisition systems, etc.) with computers and with each other to run neurophysiological and behavioral experiments with human and non-human primates. EDUCATION Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field of engineering required. EXPERIENCE One year of relevant programming experience required. Experience developing, implementing, debugging and maintaining applications required. Two years of professional programming experience preferred. Experience developing applications using C++, Matlab, Python, Java, MySQL, Visual Basic, and/or any other object oriented programming language preferred. Experience building and debugging electronic systems preferred but not required. Knowledge of electromechanical systems preferred but not required. Interest in and/or knowledge of neurophysiology preferred but not required. -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203

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Journal of Neural Engineering Special Issue on Open Source Tools in Systems Neuroscience
by Caleb Kemere Aug. 12, 2016

Aug. 12, 2016

We would like to invite you to contribute an article to a Special Issue of the Journal of Neural Engineering on "Open Source Tools in Systems Neuroscience". The last few years have seen an increasing number of community-developed open source projects become instrumental in enabling cutting edge experiments, broadening access to ensemble neural recording techniques in a variety of animal models, and facilitating the adoption of novel technologies (such as optical recording). The goal of this issue is to catalog these projects and provide a curated resource for interested scientists. All open source hardware and software projects which enable neural data acquisition and/or systems neuroscience experiments are welcome. While we are primarily targeting original results which include detailed protocols and technology demonstration, we will also consider submissions which offer updated reviews of previously documented projects. General author guidelines can be found here (https://mc04.manuscriptcentral.com/jne-iop ) via the 'Instructions, forms and policies' link. At submission, authors should select the 'Special issue article' article type, and then choose the "Open Source Tools in Systems Neuroscience" special issue from the menu at the bottom of the page. The submission deadline is 16 November 2016. We also encourage authors to send a short abstract or tentative title in advance. Please forward this announcement broadly! Thanks, Caleb Kemere, Guest Editor Andrew Malloy, Editor, IOP Publishing

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Neuroscience Gateway Workshop at SFN 2016 meeting
by Ted Carnevale Aug. 10, 2016

Aug. 10, 2016

Space is still open in the workshop Using the Neuroscience Gateway Portal for Parallel Simulation which will be held Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 AM to noon as a satellite to the 2016 meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. The Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) is an NSF-supported resource with a simple, convenient user interface, that provides free time on high performance computing hardware for computationally intensive tasks such as large scale simulations and data analysis. Currently installed software includes Brian, GENESIS, MOOSE, NEST, NEURON, PyNN, Freesurfer, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. The registration deadline for this workshop is Friday Oct. 28, but it is advisable to sign up early because space is limited. See http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2016/nsg2016.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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[journals] CFP - Special Issue on "Symbol Emergence and Developmental Systems: Social Symbol Grounding and Embodied Cognition in Humans and Robots" - IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems (TCDS)
by Amir Aly Aug. 9, 2016

Aug. 9, 2016

CALL FOR PAPERS **Apologies for cross posting ** *IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems (TCDS)*Special Issue on "*Symbol Emergence and Developmental Systems: Social Symbol Grounding and Embodied Cognition in Humans and Robots*" *I. Aim and Scope *Exploring human cognitive development constitutes a basic step towards endowing robots with high level human-like cognitive functions. Human embodied cognition follows a seamless process of development, which includes the development of sensorimotor skills, understanding concrete ideas and events, using concepts representing physical entities to describe objects, and coordinating multiple abstractions within complex representations. Investigating these aspects that bootstrap human cognitive development – through appropriate theoretical and computational cognitive modeling – allows for making robots capable of handling objects through the cumulative learning experiences that could develop sensorimotor skills, developing social skills through social learning strategies, grounding abstract concepts in the sensorimotor system, and developing linguistic skills in order to represent situations through language within interaction. A symbol system combines a group of tokens into structures and manipulates them through explicit rules to produce new expressions. The task of assigning a meaning to each meaningless symbol in a structure defines the "Symbol Grounding" problem, which has static physical and social components. The "Physical Symbol Grounding" allows an agent to form an internal explicit representation of an external-world referent so as to interpret symbols semantically. Whereas, the "Social Symbol Grounding" allows for developing a common lexicon of symbols grounded in perception information within a population of agents, which could lead to a gradual emergence of language through social interaction. A recent approach to semantically interpreting a symbol system is "Symbol Emergence", which accounts for the dynamic and self-organized nature of symbols that constitute human cognition. These complementary representations of a symbol system are still considered as real challenges in cognitive developmental robotics, and they require more elaborate theoretical and experimental studies in order to better understand the aspects of human behavior development. *II. Themes *This special issue aims to shed light on cutting-edge research lines in cognitive developmental robotics at the intersection of human cognitive science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, language science, and robotics research. Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to: - Human symbol systems and symbol emergence in robotics. - Cognitive modeling of human behavior. - Language and action development. - Learning from demonstration. - Action sequence learning. - Conceptual spaces for cognitive robotics. - Fluid and embodied construction grammar for cognitive robotics. *III. Submission * Manuscripts should be prepared according to the journal's “Information for Authors” instructions found at http://cis.ieee.org/publications.html, and submissions should be done through the IEEE TCDS Manuscript center: https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tcds-ieee (please select the category “SI: Symbol Emergence”). *IV. Important Dates*15 December 2016 – Deadline for papers submission 31 March 2017 – First notification for authors 15 May 2017 – Deadline for revised papers submission 15 June 2017 – Final notification for authors *V. Guest Editors * 1. *Amir Aly*, Ritsumeikan University, Japan ( amir.aly(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp) 2. *Sascha Griffiths*, Queen Mary University of London, UK ( sascha.griffiths(a)qmul.ac.uk) 3. *Francesca Stramandinoli*, IIT, Italy (francesca.stramandinoli(a)iit.it) 4. *Tadahiro Taniguchi*, Ritsumeikan University, Japan ( taniguchi(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp <taniguchi(a)em.ci.ritsumei.ac.jp>) 5. *Paul Vogt*, Tilburg University, The Netherlands (p.a.vogt(a)uvt.nl) More details about the scope of this journal special issue and the guest editors are available on: IEEE_TCDS_SI_CFP.pdf <https://intelligent-robots-ws.ensta-paristech.fr/wp-content/uploads/2016/08…> . ------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Amir Aly Postdoctoral Research Associate Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering - Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

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2nd CFP (ICDL-EPIROB 2016): WS on Development of Body Representations
by Matej Hoffmann Aug. 9, 2016

Aug. 9, 2016

*Call for participation: Interdisciplinary workshop on the development of body knowledge in humans and machines.* 19^th September 2016, Cergy-Pontoise / Paris http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it/> held in the framework of ICDL-EPIROB 2016 conference (http://icdl-epirob.org/) Following the previous workshops on the development of body representations in humans and robots at ICDL-EPIROB, we have the pleasure to announce a forthcoming workshop in Cergy-Pontoise / Paris on the 19^th September 2016. The aim of this workshop is to spark collaboration between roboticists and developmental psychologists in order to address the origins of the sensorimotor maps that underlie own body representations in both infants and robots. The development of infants’ body knowledge is a primary object of discovery starting before birth. This construction ultimately enables the infant to efficiently interact with the environment. The specific goal of the organizers is to explore the possibility of developing robotic models inspired by the development of human infant body representations. Presentations will consider body knowledge acquisition from sensorimotor, neural and computational perspectives. After the presentations, the discussion will aim at establishing an integrative framework for understanding a) the development of body knowledge in infants, b) the mechanisms that underlie body knowledge acquisition and c) how robots can be used to replicate developmental patterns and progressions that have been found in human infants. On the one hand such robots can become new modeling tools for empirical sciences – expanding the domain of computational modeling by anchoring it to the physical environment and a physical body. On the other hand, robot controllers endowed with multimodal whole-body awareness typical of humans should increase robots’ autonomy. ___________________________________________________________________________ We invite contributions concerning the development of body knowledge in humans and/or machines. Please submit a one-page abstract describing your poster by *the 20th August 2016* to the following address: *icdlbodyworkshop(a)gmail.com* Presenters of a poster will be expected to be present on the 19th of September 2016 for a teasers-session and for the poster session. During the teasers-session each presenter will introduce their poster in a 2-minute oral presentation (with 2-3 pdf slides). During the poster session they will then have the opportunity to explain their poster and to hand out any leaflets or other information materials they have available for viewers of their poster. *___________________________________________________________________________* *Important dates * Abstract submission: August 20, 2016. Notification of acceptance: August 23, 2016. Submission of 2-3 slides (pdf): September 15, 2016. Workshop day: September 19, 2016. ___________________________________________________________________________ *Speakers* * Prof. Jeffrey Lockman, PhD. Department of Psychology, Tulane University, USA. * Kevin O’Regan, PhD. Research scientist, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France. * Matej Hoffmann, PhD. Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy. * Prof. Minoru Asada, PhD. Research director, Division of Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics, Institute for Academic Initiatives, Osaka University, Japan. * Andrew Bremner, PhD. Reader in psychology and head of department, Goldsmiths University, London, UK. * Gianluca Baldassare, PhD. Researcher, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy.** *____________________________________________ * ** *Venue* Cergy-Pontoise University: http://www.etis.ensea.fr/neurocyber/ICDL-EPIROB2016/home.php ___________________________________________________________________________ *Website* Please check the website <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/>http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/for updated information about the workshop! ___________________________________________________________________________ *Organizers* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France Matej Hoffmann <https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home>, PhD Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy Lorenzo Jamone <http://lorejam.blogspot.pt/>, PhD Associate researcher, VisLab, Instituto de Sistemas e Robotica, Lisbon, Portugal ___________________________________________________________________________ *Contact information* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France esomogyi(a)gmail.com <mailto:esomogyi@gmail.com> -- Matej Hoffmann, PhD Postdoctoral Researcher iCub Facility Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego, 30 16163 Genoa, Italy https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home

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Postdoctoral positions in the Human Brain Project
by Andrew Davison Aug. 8, 2016

Aug. 8, 2016

Two postdoctoral positions are available within the Brain Simulation Platform of the Human Brain Project, to work on systematic model validation and on standards for model representation and sharing. The postdocs will work with Dr Andrew Davison and his group in the CNRS UNIC laboratory, located in Gif-sur-Yvette, France. Both projects will involve extensive collaboration with other groups both within and external to HBP. The positions are available immediately, and are funded until 31st March 2018 with future extensions possible. Salary depends on experience, and will be on the standard French research scale. Qualifications: Applicants should have a PhD in computer science, physics, computational neuroscience, systems biology, electrical engineering, or a related discipline, or be nearing completion of PhD studies. Excellent skills in programming (preferably Python) are essential. Expertise in computational neuroscience would be helpful but is not essential, as many aspects of the projects are transversal across simulation-based science. Knowledge of French would be helpful but is not required, as English is the working language of the project. How to apply: Send your CV, a brief statement of research interests and contact information for two references to andrew.davison(a)unic.cnrs-gif.fr. Informal inquiries are also welcome. Further details: The Human Brain Project (HBP; https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/) is an EU Flagship initiative in which over 100 partner institutions are working together to build a completely new information computing technology infrastructure for neuroscience and for brain-related research in medicine and computing, catalysing a global collaborative effort to understand the human brain and its diseases and ultimately to emulate its computational capabilities. The Brain Simulation Platform is a subproject of HBP which aims to provide community-accessible infrastructure for data-driven neuroscience modelling and simulation and to support community-driven models of specific brain regions. The successful candidates will contribute to two tasks: 1. Validation framework. This task will (i) develop services and tools to facilitate validation of data-driven neuroscience models; (ii) collaborate with modelling communities both within and external to HBP to perform model validation. The brain regions currently being actively modelled within HBP include somatosensory cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus and basal ganglia. 2. Model representation and standards. Performant and standardised model representations and APIs are essential both for efficient HPC simulation workflows and for effective collaboration and sharing in the context of open science. This task will work with community partners and with model developers internal to HBP to adopt and/or develop standards for representing brain models, and for sharing them. The Task will work with the High Performance Computing and Neuromorphic Computing platforms of HBP to ensure that the APIs and model representations are consistent with high performance on both traditional HPC and neuromorphic computing systems. As far as possible the task will use and/or extend existing community standards (e.g. NeuroML, NineML, PyNN). UNIC (Unité de Neurosciences, Information et Complexité; http://www.unic.cnrs-gif.fr/) is a research unit of the CNRS, located on a parkland campus in Gif-sur-Yvette, about 40 minutes from central Paris. UNIC consists of seven research groups, with a shared focus on complexity in the dynamics of neocortical networks during sensory processing and perception, and using a range of experimental, theoretical and informatics approaches.

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Post Doc / PhD position: “Algorithms of the Neocortex” in Frankfurt and Göttingen
by Michael Wibral Aug. 5, 2016

Aug. 5, 2016

Dear Comp-Neuro community, we'll be happy to welcome a PhD or Post-Doc in Frankfurt and Göttingen - see below. Please spread the word. Best Regards, Michael Wibral *Post Doc / PhD position: “Algorithms of the Neocortex” in Frankfurt and Göttingen* ** The group for neural information dynamics at the lab of Prof. Michael Wibral (Goethe University, Frankfurt, and Guest scientist at the MPI for Dynamics and Self-Organisation, Göttingen) invites applications for a Post Doc / PhD position in a project on “generic information processing algorithms of the neocortex” for an initial duration of 3 years (PhD), or 2 years (Post Doc) with the possibility of an extension. The goal of the project is to understand from an information theoretic perspective how and why the three elementary operations on information – active storage, transfer and modification – are assigned to the layers and cell types of six-layered cortex. The project will tackle this question via information theoretic analyses of massively parallel electrophysiological recordings from primates and intracellular recordings of pyramidal cells. These insights will inform simulations of neural networks with information theoretic goal functions. The project is a collaborative effort with several partners: The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organisation (MPIDS) in Göttingen is known for its achievements in theoretical and computational neuroscience; the Universities of Glasgow and Stirling are the source of important developments in the information theoretic understanding of neural systems; the University of Sydney is leading in the development of measures for local information dynamics. The ideal candidate should have strong mathematical and programming skills and a Master's degree or a PhD in theoretical/computational neuroscience, physics, computer science, cognitive science, or engineering. Previous experience in information theory and neural simulators (e.g. NEST) are a plus but not required. The group of Michael Wibral has been focused on information theoretic analyses of neural networks for many years and is the home of the TRENTOOL and IDTxl toolboxes. Both, Frankfurt and Göttingen offer exceptional scientific communities with leading neuroscience groups at Max Planck Institutes and Universities. At both cities, applicants at the Post Doc level will have the opportunity to teach in English in international Master programs in neuroscience. The Goethe university is an equal opportunities employer committed to increasing the share of women in science. Applicants should send their application, including a CV, all marks from their studies, 2 letters of reference, and a research statement to _wibral(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de <mailto:wibral@em.uni-frankfurt.de>_ . Applications will be accepted until Sept. 30th, 2016 or until the position is filled. Starting dates are flexible but preferably before Jan. 1^st , 2017.

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Research Fellow Position in Neuroinformatics
by Leon French Aug. 3, 2016

Aug. 3, 2016

The Computational Neurobiology Laboratory at CAMH seeks a postdoctoral fellow to join our efforts to understand brain disease. We focus on mining datasets of connectivity, gene expression and epigenetics across the genome and the brain. We employ multifaceted approaches that gain information by using data that crosses scales, modalities, and species. We seek one postdoctoral fellow interested in bioinformatics and neuroscience. The primary project will be to create, explore, and test methods for mapping many genes across neuroanatomy and brain development. Given the polygenic complexity of mental illness, there are many exciting applications for these methods. Our current applications use genes associated with Parkinson’s disease, aging (collaboration with Dr. Etienne Sibille) and intellectual disability (with Dr. John B. Vincent). In addition to this project, there would be opportunities to pursue other research interests. Some of our frequently used keywords give a good description of our work: neuroinformatics, molecular neuroanatomy, genetics, epigenomics, population neuroscience, transcriptomics, machine learning, text mining, neuroimaging, software development, and connectomics. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science or related field with extensive knowledge in genome-wide data integration. Significant interest in neuroscience and experience working with large datasets are requested. Writing manuscripts and applying for independent grants and fellowships will be strongly encouraged. Highly motivated individuals (Ph.D. and/or M.D.) should submit a curriculum vitae, names of 3 references and a cover letter explaining their interest, and a brief description of research experience. Send information to leonfrench+recruit(a)gmail.com You will support a healthy workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork and complies with all applicable and regulatory requirements. This position will be located at 250 College Street, Toronto.

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PhD / Postdoctoral position on Network Dynamics and Information Processing, Max Planck Institute & UMG, Germany
by Viola Priesemann Aug. 3, 2016

Aug. 3, 2016

PhD / Postdoctoral position "Network Dynamics and Information Processing in Health and Disease" * The project * The project addresses the physiological underpinning of neural network dysfunction in terms of dynamics and information processing in early onset neurological diseases. The successful candidate will combine theoretical approaches with experimental in vivo recordings and with in vitro preparations derived from monogenetic neurological disorders. The study will be backed up by manipulation of classical in vitro networks. Our aim is to gain a mechanistic understanding of disease induced network dysfunction, which allows to understand disease pathophysiology and to develop treatment approaches. * The position * The position is part of an interdisciplinary project between the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, the Bernstein Center and the University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany. It is embedded in the Göttingen Campus Physics-to-Medicine initiative, which brings together about 30 research groups in the field of physics, theoretical neurosciences, neurology and cardiology with the explicit objective of promoting quantitative biomedicine with a translational perspective. * The Göttingen campus offers * · a strong focus on experimental and theoretical neuroscience, including the Max Planck Institutes for Dynamics and Self-organization, Experimental Medicine, and Biophysical Chemistry, the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, the European Neuroscience Institute, the German Primate Center, and the physics, biology and medical faculties of the Göttingen university. · the possibility of teaching and taking courses within the Neuroscience Graduate schools * The candidate should have * · a Master or PhD degree in theoretical or experimental Neuroscience, or related disciplines (Physics, Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine, …) · a strong interest to cross disciplinary boundaries in order to gain a quantitative understanding of neurons and networks in health and disease · strong English speaking and writing skills. German speaking skills are not required. * Your application * The Max-Planck society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Andreas Neef (andreas(a)nld.ds.mpg.de) Dr. Viola Priesemann (viola(a)nld.ds.mpg.de) or Dr. Hendrik Rosewich (hendrik.rosewich(a)med.uni-goettingen.de) If you are interested in joining our group, please send your CV, transcript of records, contacts of two referees, and a brief statement of interest, quoting reference no. 08-2016, by email in one pdf file to viola(a)nld.ds.mpg.de. Applications received before August, 23rd, 2016 will be given full consideration. -- Dr. Viola Priesemann Bernstein Research Fellow and Group Leader www.nld.ds.mpg.de/people/priesemann

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PostDoc / PhD position: “Algorithms of the Neocortex” in Frankfurt / Göttingen
by Viola Priesemann Aug. 3, 2016

Aug. 3, 2016

*Post Doc / PhD position: “Algorithms of the Neocortex” in Frankfurt / Göttingen* ** The group for neural information dynamics at the lab of Prof. Michael Wibral (Goethe University, Frankfurt, and Guest scientist at the MPI for Dynamics and Self-Organisation, Göttingen) invites applications for a Post Doc / PhD position in a project on “generic information processing algorithms of the neocortex” for an initial duration of 3 years (PhD), or 2 years (Post Doc) with the possibility of an extension. The goal of the project is to understand from an information theoretic perspective how and why the three elementary operations on information – active storage, transfer and modification – are assigned to the layers and cell types of six-layered cortex. The project will tackle this question via information theoretic analyses of massively parallel electrophysiological recordings from primates and intracellular recordings of pyramidal cells. These insights will inform simulations of neural networks with information theoretic goal functions. The project is a collaborative effort with several partners: The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organisation (MPIDS) in Göttingen is known for its achievements in theoretical and computational neuroscience; the Universities of Glasgow and Stirling are the source of important developments in the information theoretic understanding of neural systems; the University of Sydney is leading in the development of measures for local information dynamics. The ideal candidate should have strong mathematical and programming skills and a Master's degree or a PhD in theoretical/computational neuroscience, physics, computer science, cognitive science, or engineering. Previous experience in information theory and neural simulators (e.g. NEST) are a plus but not required. The group of Michael Wibral has been focused on information theoretic analyses of neural networks for many years and is the home of the TRENTOOL and IDTxl toolboxes. Both, Frankfurt and Göttingen offer exceptional scientific communities with leading neuroscience groups at Max Planck Institutes and Universities. At both cities, applicants at the Post Doc level will have the opportunity to teach in English in international Master programs in neuroscience. The Goethe university is an equal opportunities employer committed to increasing the share of women in science. Applicants should send their application, including a CV, all marks from their studies, 2 letters of reference, and a research statement to _wibral(a)em.uni-frankfurt.de <mailto:wibral@em.uni-frankfurt.de>_ . Applications will be accepted until Sept. 30th, 2016 or until the position is filled. Starting dates are flexible but preferably before Jan. 1^st , 2017.

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Workshop in Copenhagen, Sept. 14-16
by Henrik Anders Lindén Aug. 2, 2016

Aug. 2, 2016

Dear all, We still have a few free seats for the workshop "How does the brain work?" in Copenhagen, September 14th-16th 2016. This workshop will bring together leading experimentalists and leading theoreticians in neuroscience to openly discuss ideas for a common brain theory. Speaker list: - Dora Angelaki (Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA) - Michael Brecht (Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Germany) - Gustavo Deco (Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain) - Sophie Denève (Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France) - Alain Destexhe (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Gif-sur-Yvette, France) - Adrienne Fairhall (University of Washington, Seattle, USA) - Riitta Hari (Aalto University, Finland) - John Hertz (University of Copenhagen, Denmark) - Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, France) - Per Roland (University of Copenhagen, Denmark) - Ranulfo Romo (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico) - Idan Segev (Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel) - Tatyana Sharpee (Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, USA) - Sara Solla (Northwestern University, Chicago, USA) - Misha Tsodyks (Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel) For more information including registration details please see the workshop homepage: http://dsin.ku.dk/calendar/brain_workshop/ Best regards, Per Roland and Henrik Lindén Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen

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Computational Neuroscience workshop Cortona (Italy), September 12-16, 2016
by thierry nieus July 31, 2016

July 31, 2016

Dear colleagues, it is my pleasure to announce the workshop: NeuroMath, Mathematical and Computational Neuroscience: cell, network and data analysis, that will take place in Cortona (Italy), September 12-16, 2016. We have an extensive list of confirmed speakers, experts in their field. These talks will span over several branches of the Neuroscience field with a common focus on the quantitative and mathematical questions lying behind the scientific questions. The workshop will bring together mathematicians, engineers, physicists and biologists and hopefully this will foster discussions across different research fields. The list of confirmed speakers is: http://www.mat.unimi.it/users/naldi/NeuroMath/ISpeakers.html We will allocate some slots for posters (e.g. Tuesday & Friday evening) and oral communications (10-25’, along the days). The accepted abstract will appear in the Springer INdAM series (http://www.springer.com/series/10283) A financial support can be provided for the stay at the meeting upon explicit request together with the submission of an abstract. Conference details: - Registration to the workshop is free but required - Conference registration starts on September 11, 2016 - Early registration deadline: August 31, 2016 - Web page: http://www.mat.unimi.it/users/naldi/NeuroMath/ - Latest news: http://rgs.mat.unimi.it/other-events Hope to see you there! Sincerely The organizing committee: Giovanni Naldi (Dept of Mathemtics, UNIMI, Milano) Thierry Nieus (Istituto Italiano Tecnologia, Genoa) Claudio Canuto (Politecnico of Turin). -- Thierry Nieus, PhD Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Istituto Italiano Tecnologia (IIT) Via Morego 30, 16163 Genoa Italy phone: +39 010 71781749 fax: +39 010 71781230 skype: thierry.nieus

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Two PhD positions in closed-loop neural information processing
by Pablo Varona July 30, 2016

July 30, 2016

Dear colleagues, Two doctoral positions are available at the Biological Neurocomputation Group, Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain. The research will focus on novel experimental protocols in neuroscience assessing closed-loop information processing. We seek two highly motivated PhD students with a Master's degree at the time of the formalization of the contracts in one of the following (or related) disciplines: computer science, biology, physics, engineering, prosthetics, etc. The first position is available starting October 1st 2016. This position is focused to develop real-time software for neural close-loop interactions. Advanced programming skills are required for this position. Prior experience in real-time software programming will be valuable. Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research is required. The second position has a mixed experimental and modeling focus and is available starting January 1st 2017. Prior experience in the fields of /in vitro/ electrophysiological recordings, dynamic clamp, EEG, neuroimaging, or computational neuroscience will be valuable. Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research is required. How to apply: The application deadline for the two positions is September, 15h 2016. Interested candidates, please send CV and two reference letters (including contact information) to gnbuam(a)gmail.com http://www.ii.uam.es/~pvarona http://www.ii.uam.es/~gnb

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Postdoctoral positions in model-based fMRI and brain-inspired AI at KAIST
by Sang Wan Lee July 30, 2016

July 30, 2016

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Postdoctoral Position in Sensory Coding
by Daniel A. Butts July 29, 2016

July 29, 2016

Postdoctoral Position in Sensory Coding Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the Neuroscience Theory Research Group of Dan Butts at the University of Maryland, in suburban Washington DC. Our lab studies how visual perception is constructed across the visual hierarchy, and involves a diversity of projects at the interface of experiment and computation/theory. The postdoctoral position will focus on a collaboration between our lab and that of Bruce Cumming (NIH), studying how neurons that represent the center-of-gaze (fovea) process visual stimuli, which includes accounting for the effects of eye movements. There will also be opportunities to get involved in several other ongoing projects in the lab, as well as in the Cumming lab at NIH (nearby). See our webpage for more information: http://neurotheory.umd.edu We are seeking a researcher with a strong quantitative training as well as broad knowledge of neuroscience, ideally with past work studying problems linked with neurophysiology. The position is available starting immediately, and we are reviewing applications as they come. Please email Dan Butts with a CV, a brief description of your relevant education and research experience, and a list of colleagues that are willing to submit a letter of recommendation. [Letters will be requested for applications with the best fit.] For more information, please see our webpage (above), and please feel free to write Dan Butts. -------------------------------- Daniel A. Butts, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Biology and Program in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science University of Maryland, College Park USA http://neurotheory.umd.edu

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Ph.D. Scholarships in “Cognitive Dependable Cyber Physical Systems” -- Brandenburg University of Technology
by Douglas Cunningham July 29, 2016

July 29, 2016

The Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus - Senftenberg will launch new thematic clusters in the Graduate Research School (GRS) as part of the strategy to strengthen the research profile of BTU. Thematic clusters are flexible units that shall contribute to the creation of critical masses in the core research areas of BTU. At the same time they are an important instrument of promoting young researchers. Against this backdrop the BTU will establish in October 2016 the thematic cluster “Cognitive Dependable Cyber Physical Systems“ (CD - CPS). Successful applicants are expected to begin their research in October 2016 and the scholarship will be tenable for 36 months. The amount of the scholarship is 1,200 euros per month. The GRS will also offer child support for Ph.D. students with children. Successful candidates will have access to additional funding of the GRS for their doctoral research (e.g. mobility grants etc.). Doctoral studies may be organized within a program of structured doctoral studies towards a “Ph. D. in Dependable Hardware / Software Systems”. Optionally, doctoral students may work towards a “Dr.-Ing.” or a “Dr. rer. nat” degree. The cluster’s research focuses on technical systems that have the ability to perceive, interpret, think, and act intelligently and reliably. These systems need cognitive abilities, such as extracting and interpreting information from complex, noisy, and possibly incomplete data –- often coming from different types of sensor. This information also must be integrated with existing knowledge in order to make informed decisions which guide the system’s behavior, including about how to interact with humans. One critical system function is to monitor system parameters in order to make decisions regarding dependability, reliability, safety, and security. This can help achieve a high degree of “error resilience”. These systems must be trustworthy, dependable, and reliable, especially since they are increasingly being embedded in many aspects of everyday life. The cluster works closely with the Leibniz Institute for Innovative Micorelectronics (IHP). Additional Information about the cluster and the funding program can found at website of the GRS: <www.b-tu.de/researchschool/> . Applicants should have successfully completed a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science/Informatics, Cognitive Science or a related field. Although the language of working environment and the dissertation is usually German, English is also possible with the consent of the advisor. In addition to the usual application materials (letter of application, CV or résumé, copies of academic degrees), all applicants should send a letter of motivation and a research proposal. The research proposal should be no more than 5 pages, be based on one of the proposed Ph.D. topics listed on the Cluster’s GRS website, and describe past experience or work in the area. Please note that the cluster only accepts complete applications. The application deadline is August 15, 2016. For further information or to submit your application (preferably via email as one PDF), please contact: Prof. Dr. Douglas W. Cunningham BTU Cottbus - Senftenberg Tel.: +49 (0) 355 69 3816 E-Mail: douglas.cunningham(a)b-tu.de

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PhD Studentship in Computational Neuroscience - Ulster-Oxford Collaboration
by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt July 27, 2016

July 27, 2016

Applications are invited for a Research Challenge Fund PhD studentship in Computational Neuroscience tenable in the Faculty of Computing and Engineering at Ulster University, UK. This PhD project, based on a recently awarded UK BBSRC project, is a collaboration between Ulster University and Oxford University on the development of an advanced and realistic computational model of neuronal circuit involves in emotional learning. For more information, please refer to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/95519/BBSRC-2016-2017-… The computational neuroscience and neural systems research community at the Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Ulster University focuses on both fundamental brain and behavioural sciences, and their applications, including clinical neuroscience and neural engineering. The successful PhD candidate will benefit from the expertise of Ulster's computational neuroscience and machine learning community, and will interact closely with collaborators at Oxford University. The application process for the Ph.D. studentship is opened with a closing date for applications on the 26th August 2016. All applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Statistics, Neuroscience, Biology, or a cognate area. Applications will be considered on a competitive basis with regard to the candidate's qualifications, skills, experience and interests. Successful candidates will enrol as of 1st October 2016, on a full-time programme of research studies leading to the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. The studentships, which are highly competitive, will comprise fees together (Home/EU Rate) with an annual stipend of £14,296 and will be awarded for a period of up to three years' subject to satisfactory progress. Applicants must be highly motivated and willing to pursue research and develop skills across disciplines. If you wish to apply for this studentship, please follow the instructions and procedures at: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/phdresearch-degrees/how-to… and https://srssb.ulster.ac.uk/PROD/bwskalog.P_DispChoices Successful students will be based primarily at the ISRC with opportunities to interact with other related ISRC research teams, the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Centre for Stratified Medicine, and other collaborators. The ISRC is situated in the city of Derry~Londonderry, which received the City of Culture 2013 award. If you wish to discuss your proposal or receive advice on this project, please contact: Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin (k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk) ------------------- Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin Intelligent Systems Research Centre School of Computing and Intelligent Systems Faculty of Computing and Engineering Ulster University http://isrc.ulster.ac.uk/kwonglin/contact.html ________________________________ 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 University of Ulster was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

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IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo, Cape Town - application deadline.
by Alexander Antrobus July 27, 2016

July 27, 2016

Dear all, this is a quick reminder that the deadline for the isiCNI is approaching quickly! *IBRO SIMONS COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IMBIZO* 9 - 28 January 2017, Muizenburg Beach Cape Town, South Africa http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk <http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/><http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/> *Applications deadline: 31st July 2016* The #isiCNI2017 is a (southern hemisphere) summer school aiming to promote computational neuroscience in Africa by bringing together international and local students under the tutelage of world-leading experts in the field. Like its international sister courses, this three-week summer school aims to teach central ideas, methods, and practices of modern computational neuroscience through a combination of lectures and hands-on project work. Mornings will be devoted to lectures given by distinguished international faculty on topics across the breadth of experimental and computational neuroscience. The rest of the day will be spent working on research projects in teams of 2-3 people under the close supervision of expert tutors and faculty. Research projects decided with the students and focus on the modeling of neurons, neural systems, 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 aimed at graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from various disciplines, including neuroscience, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, psychology and biology. Students are expected to have a keen interest and basic background in neurobiology, a solid foundation in mathematics, as well as some computer experience. *Essential details:* * Generous scholarships and travel stipends are available. Successful African applicants will likely be fully subsidised. * Fee (which covers tuition, lodging, and meals): 1000 EUR * Application deadline: 31 July 2016 * Notification of results: September 2016 *Information and application* http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk <http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/><http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/> <http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/ <http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/><http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/>> *POSTER DOWNLOAD:* http://tinyurl.com/isiCNI2017 <http://tinyurl.com/isiCNI2017><http://tinyurl.com/isiCNI2017> (please distribute this is you can) *Imbizo* \?m'bi?z?\ | Xhosa - Zulu A gathering of the people to share knowledge. *DIRECTORS* Peter Latham (Gatsby Unit for Computational Neuroscience, University College London, UK) Joseph Raimondo (University of Cape Town, South Africa) Tim Vogels (University of Oxford, UK) *FACULTY* Larry Abbott - Columbia University Emery Brown - Harvard University / MIT Nando deFreitas - Google DeepMind Adrienne Fairhall - Washington University Surya Ganguli - Stanford University Wulfram Gerstner - EPFL Lausanne Peter Latham - University College London Timothy Lillicrap - Google DeepMind Mate Lengyel - University of Cambridge Eve Marder - Brandeis University Joseph Raimondo - University of Cape Town Yiota Poirazi - Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas Srikanth Ramaswamy - EPFL Lausanne Rajnish Ranjan - EPFL Lausanne Tim Vogels - University of Oxford Daniel Wolpert - University of Cambridge Special Guests: Alyssa Piccini Schaffer - Simons Foundation Arthur Wingfield - Brandeis University *Local Organiser:* Alex Antrobus (isicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com<mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com> <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com><mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com> <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com><mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com>>) -- Disclaimer - University of Cape Town This e-mail is subject to UCT policies and e-mail disclaimer published on our website at http://www.uct.ac.za/about/policies/emaildisclaimer/ or obtainable from +27 21 650 9111. If this e-mail is not related to the business of UCT, it is sent by the sender in an individual capacity. Please report security incidents or abuse via csirt(a)uct.ac.za

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Postdoctoral positions in model-based fMRI and brain-inspired AI at KAIST
by Sang Wan Lee July 26, 2016

July 26, 2016

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Workshop on brain stimulation for neuro-prosthetic applications
by David Rotermund July 25, 2016

July 25, 2016

We would like to invite you to participate in our excellence workshop "Naturalistic integration of information from external stimulation into ongoing neuronal activities of the brain". It will take place October 20-23, 2016 at the Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg in Delmenhorst (near Bremen), Germany. The invited main speakers are Costas Anastassiou, Sliman Bensmaia, Anythony N. Burkitt, Ilka Diester, Jannis Hildebrandt, Eduardo Fernandez Jover, Andreas Kreiter, Kristine Krug, Walter Lang, Mikhail A. Lebedev, Thomas Lenarz, Hubert H Lim, Tobias Moser, Klaus Obermayer, Ramesh Rajan, Christopher J. Rozell, Mohamad Sawan, Alessandro Vato, Günther Zeck, Eberhart Zrenner. A preliminary program can be found under http://www.nncn.de/en/news/events/11th-bernstein-sparks-workshop As you might know quite well from your own experience, it is a huge problem to interface with the brain and to successfully introduce artificial, meaningful signals into on-going neural information processing. On the other hand, exciting possibilities in medical and fundamental research are waiting to be explored and to be realized. This workshop will address major challenges in this field: * Ideas and technologies for improving functional neuro-prostheses. Besides presenting general advances, we will specifically focus on artificial vision and hearing, and on building better prosthetic limbs providing touch sensation feedback * Using causal interference with neural processing as a tool for understanding how the brain works and processes information * Establishing stimulation protocols and designing algorithms for providing external information with dynamics matching spatio-temporal activation patterns observed under 'normal' conditions, encoded in a format that the brain can 'understand'. Our workshop will bring together experimentalists, technologists, medical scientists, and theoreticians who are the experts in getting meaningful signals into neuronal circuits actively engaged in information processing. The workshop will provide a platform allowing you to present your work and to have discussions with other researchers (especially from other disciplines, who use different methods or work on other areas of the brain) about putative solutions for solving this puzzle. Besides the talks of the main speakers with plenty of time for discussions there will be a poster session. Participation in the workshop will be limited to about 60 attendees (20 main speakers, 40 postdocs + PhD students) on a first come first serve basis. In case you are interested in participating, we would ask you to send your reply to _<mailto:ajanssen@neuro.uni-bremen.de>ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de_. In order to cover all costs, may we ask for a registration fee in the amount of € 60,00 (€ 40,00 for Bernstein members) for PhD students and € 120,00 (€ 80,00 for Bernstein members) for postdocs/professors. You will understand that we cannot cover your costs for accommodation and travelling. The meeting is part of the "Bernstein Sparks Workshops series" and will be supported and partly financed by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) and the Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience. Further support and financing is provided by the "Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg Institute for Advanced Study" ( http://www.h-w-k.de/index.php?id=2213 ). Yours sincerely Udo Ernst and David Rotermund

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Registrations open for Neuromechanics 2016, Oct. 4-6, Heidelberg, Germany
by Manish Sreenivasa July 25, 2016

July 25, 2016

*International Symposium on the Neuromechanics of Human Movement* 4-6 October 2016, Heidelberg, Germany Online Registration: http://orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/neuromechanics2016/register/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Neuromechanics 2016 symposium is targeted at researchers working in the field of computational neuroscience, biomechanics, clinical gait analysis and rehabilitation robotics. An interesting cross-section of researchers from these fields will present talks and posters at this event: http://orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/neuromechanics2016/speakers/ Some of the topics related to this symposium are: - Neuromechanics and its role in motor control - Modeling of efferent and afferent pathways - Neural and muscular synergies - Neural control of multi-muscle, multi-joint movements - Neuromuscular human-machine interfaces - Neural control for robotics applications - Translational research: From models/experiments to clinical applications The symposium is planned as a 2.5 day single-track event with a focused gathering of researchers and ample time for discussions in formal and informal settings. Total number of participants is limited to about 60, due to the venue facilities. Interested participants are requested to register soon due to the possibility of running out of available spaces! -- Dr. Manish Sreenivasa Optimization in Robotics & Biomechanics Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing University of Heidelberg Berlinerstr. 45 | 69120 Heidelberg | Germany Tel: +49-6221-54-14874 Web: orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/people/manish

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Competitive travel grants: ELSC retreat, January 2017
by Yoram Burak July 24, 2016

July 24, 2016

Please distribute to whoever may be interested. Thanks, Yoram --- *Competitive travel grants: ELSC retreat, January 2017* We'd like to reach out through you to advanced PhD students in your institute who may be interested in a fully supported travel opportunity to join us at the Annual Retreat of our Brain Center (ELSC) in the Desert Resort of Ein Gedi at the end of January 2017. The Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is an ambitious scientific venture, building upon Hebrew University’s record of excellence and innovation in its multidisciplinary approach to brain science. At ELSC, researchers work collaboratively, covering the full spectrum of neuroscience research (for more information, see http://elsc.huji.ac.il/science/scientists) ELSC is offering up to 20 competitive travel grants for advanced PhD students to attend ELSC's 2017 annual retreat and present their work. Last year’s program can be seen via the following link: http://elsc.huji.ac.il/content/elsc-retreat-2016 Candidates are required to send their CVs, together with letters of intent and recommendation to: elsc-retreat(a)elsc.huji.ac.il by November 1, 2016. ELSC invites selected attendees to extend their visit, at our expense, and spend 2-3 days visiting ELSC labs, exploring opportunities for a postdoctoral internship and collaborations. We will be delighted to assist with the necessary arrangements. See also: http://elsc.huji.ac.il/content/elsc-retreat-2017 Many Thanks! The organising committee. ___ Yoram Burak The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Racah Institute of Physics | Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences p: +972-2-6585837/84523 w: http://elsc.huji.ac.il/burak a: Danciger B 103, Safra Campus, Jerusalem 91904, Israel

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workshop Cortona (Italy), September 12-16, 2016
by thierry nieus July 23, 2016

July 23, 2016

Dear colleagues, it is my pleasure to announce the workshop: NeuroMath, Mathematical and Computational Neuroscience: cell, network and data analysis, that will take place in Cortona (Italy), September 12-16, 2016. We have an extensive list of confirmed speakers, experts in their field. These talks will span over several branches of the Neuroscience field with a common focus on the quantitative and mathematical questions lying behind the scientific questions. The workshop will bring together mathematicians, engineers, physicists and biologists and hopefully this will foster discussions across different research fields. The list of confirmed speakers is: http://www.mat.unimi.it/users/naldi/NeuroMath/ISpeakers.html We will allocate some slots for posters (e.g. Tuesday & Friday evening) and oral communications (10-25’, along the days). The accepted abstract will appear in the Springer INdAM series (http://www.springer.com/series/10283) A financial support can be provided for the stay at the meeting upon explicit request together with the submission of an abstract. Conference details: - Registration to the workshop is free but required - Conference registration starts on September 11, 2016 - Early registration deadline: August 31, 2016 - Web page: http://www.mat.unimi.it/users/naldi/NeuroMath/ - Latest news: http://rgs.mat.unimi.it/other-events Hope to see you there! Sincerely The organizing committee: Giovanni Naldi (Dept of Mathemtics, UNIMI, Milano) Thierry Nieus (Istituto Italiano Tecnologia, Genoa) Claudio Canuto (Politecnico of Turin).

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Postdoctoral Fellow/Associate - Pruszynski/Diedrichsen
by Andrew Pruszynski July 22, 2016

July 22, 2016

Dr. Andrew Pruszynski (www.pruszynskilab.com) and Dr. Jörn Diedrichsen ( www.diedrichsenlab.org) are looking to hire a postdoctoral fellow/associate in sensorimotor neuroscience. The incumbent will help develop and lead a project involving a mix of non-human primate neurophysiology and computational neuroscience, including (1) large-scale neural recordings in sensorimotor cortex during complex reaching and grasping actions and (2) biologically-realistic neural networks (done in collaboration with Dr. Timothy Lillicrap, Google Deepmind). The incumbent must have a PhD in Neuroscience (or related area) and a strong track record with single-cell electrophysiology in primates as witnessed by excellent peer-reviewed publications; a strong computational background, particularly experience with machine learning, is also desired. Our labs are located at the Brain and Mind Institute (w ww.uwo.ca/bmi) and the Robarts Research Institute (www.robarts.ca) , both at Western University in London, Canada. Systems and cognitive neuroscience is a key area of research strength at Western University, with more than 30 Principal Investigators and 200 trainees. Further details about working as a postdoctoral fellow/associate at Western University and about living in London, Canada can be found here: www.grad.uwo.ca/postdoctoral_scholars/prospective/index.html. Annual salary depends on level of experience but will be no less than $45,000 per year. Funding is available for up to 5 years. Start date is negotiable but ideally would be no later than January 2017. Reimbursement for moving expenses will be available. Applications marked with reference number AP-CIHR-PDF-2016 should be submitted electronically as a single PDF file to andrew.pruszynski(a)uwo.ca. The application deadline is September 15th, 2016. Please include all the following components: 1. A personal statement describing research interests, experience, and goals (<2 pages) 2. A complete curriculum vitae 3. Names and contact information of three references

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Postdoc Position Available in Deep Learning for Vision at RIT
by Christopher Kanan July 21, 2016

July 21, 2016

One postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Christopher Kanan at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), in Rochester, NY. The lab specializes in applying machine learning algorithms to solve problems in computer vision and related fields. The candidate will be responsible for developing new algorithms for the detecting manipulated and tampered images. They will also work on adversarial networks for image generation and related techniques. Requirements: Ph.D. in computer science or related field; A research record in computer vision and/or machine learning; Familiarity with deep learning The position is initially for one year, but is renewable upon strong performance for an additional year. The salary is significantly above the typical postdoctoral market rate. Applications should be sent by email to ( christopher.kanan(a)rit.edu) and should include a CV, the expected data of availability, and contact information for two references. The starting date is September 2016. *About the lab*: http://klab.cis.rit.edu/ About Rochester, NY Rochester is the third largest city in the U.S. state of New York. The quality of life in the area is excellent. It has a low cost of living and some of the best K-12 public schools in the US.

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Fwd: Job Advertisement - Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neurophysics and Brain Dynamics
by Paula Sanz-Leon July 21, 2016

July 21, 2016

Postdoc position at the University of Sydney ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Cindy Guy <cindy.guy(a)sydney.edu.au> Date: Wed, Jul 13, 2016 at 8:51 AM Subject: Job Advertisement - Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neurophysics and Brain Dynamics To: "brain(a)physics.usyd.edu.au" <brain(a)physics.usyd.edu.au>, " complexity-usyd(a)googlegroups.com" <complexity-usyd(a)googlegroups.com> *Please pass this on to anyone you think may be interested.* Link – Live Advertisement <http://sydney.nga.net.au/cp/index.cfm?event=jobs.checkJobDetailsNewApplicat…> *Closing date: 15 August 2016* POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE IN NEUROPHYSICS AND BRAIN DYNAMICS *Postdoctoral Research Associate in Neurophysics and Brain Dynamics* *ARC Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function School of Physics Reference no. 1100/0616 * *Up to 3 positions studying multiscale, emergent, nonlinear, and critical phenomena in the brain* - *Full-time, fixed term for three years, with further offers available subject to performance, funding and need remuneration package: up to $112K pro rata p.a. which includes leave loading and up to 17% super)* - *The opportunity to work in the Brain Dynamics Group* Applications are sought for up to three Postdoctoral Research Associates (Level A) in the School of Physics and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function (CIBF). This is an opportunity to work in the Brain Dynamics Group of Professor Peter Robinson on projects in the area of his Laureate Fellowship on the Physical Brain and/or research in the area of the CIBF. His group also participates in the Cooperative Research Centre for Alertness, Safety, and Productivity, and the NHMRC-funded Centre for Research Excellence, Neurosleep, and has wide collaborations across the University, Australia, and internationally. The successful applicants will form a team to work on a wide variety of theoretical and computational topics in multiscale, emergent, nonlinear, and critical phenomena in the brain, starting from a physical perspective, with particular focus on nonlinear and stochastic dynamics of brain activity waves, modes, and networks. Key applications will be pursued under the laureate program that involve vision, seizures, imaging, and network evolution; others will be in the CIBF’s focal areas of attention, prediction, and decision. Successful applicants will also be expected to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of theoreticians and experimentalists to advance these projects. *Essential criteria include:* - an undergraduate major in physics, applied mathematics, or similar field - a theoretical/computational PhD in physics, computational neuroscience, biological modelling, applied mathematics, engineering, or allied field; thesis must have at least been submitted for examination by the time of any interview for this position. - demonstrated ability to program in Matlab or C++ - proved research ability and evidence of self-motivation and research potential, including the ability to conduct research activities under limited supervision - publications in refereed journals *Desirable criteria include:* - familiarity with background areas such as quantum theory, fields, networks, Green functions, critical phenomena, wave theory, control systems, and/or nonlinear dynamics - demonstrated ability to relate theoretical predictions to experimental data and vice versa - experience in brain modelling or computational neuroscience - experience with neural field theory - experience with modelling physical or biological systems - experience in multidisciplinary teams - an ability to start work by 31 January 2017. Since a team is being built, the initial appointment process will begin by appointing the most suitable\person; the remaining people will then be assessed with regard to the areas that remain to be covered by the team as a whole, particularly as no one person is expected to possess the full range of skills described above. The position is full-time fixed term for three years, subject to the completion of a satisfactory probation period for new appointees and satisfactory performance as assessed at the end of the second year. Further offers may be available subject to performance, funding and need. Applications that make a case for a part-time position will also be considered, especially where this advances the Equal Opportunity goals of the University or if the applicant is of unusual merit. This appointment will be for three years with potential for extension subject to ongoing funding. The School of Physics supports a flexible working environment. Subject to visa restrictions, applications will be considered for either a full-time or part-time appointment to this position. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Centre for Complex Systems at The University of Sydney" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to complexity-usyd+unsubscribe(a)googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to complexity-usyd(a)googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/complexity-usyd/8AC55DD7-57C5-49A3-B830-7… <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/complexity-usyd/8AC55DD7-57C5-49A3-B830-7…> . For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.

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PhD Scholarships in complex networks & info theory at USyd
by Joseph Lizier July 18, 2016

July 18, 2016

Dear all, (Apologies for cross-posting) Two PhD scholarships are available to study with Dr. Joseph Lizier in an Australian Research Council DECRA funded project ("Relating function of complex networks to structure using information theory"), within the Complex Systems Research Group in the Faculty of Engineering and IT at The University of Sydney. Both projects involve studying the relationship between complex network structure and dynamics, in terms of information processing. The approach will primarily use information theory (e.g. transfer entropy), with applications to neural data sets: 1. "Inferring information network structure from dynamics" -- http://bit.ly/1SZdnim 2. "Describing network and information processing co-development" -- http://bit.ly/24mp8Vq For any questions, please contact Dr. Lizier (joseph.lizier(a)sydney.edu.au) The closing date for applications is August 14, with the successful candidate to start by Feb 2017 or earlier. Please forward to any interested parties. Regards, --joe -- Dr. JOSEPH LIZIER | ARC DECRA Fellow | Senior Lecturer Complex Systems Research Group Faculty of Engineering and IT THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY Rm 338A, Building J05 | The University of Sydney | NSW | 2006 T+61 2 9351 3208 | F+61 2 9351 3343 | M+61 408 186 901 E joseph.lizier(a)sydney.edu.au | W sydney.edu.au TW @jlizier | W lizier.me/joseph CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments. Please think of our environment and only print this e-mail if necessary.

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Neuroscience Gateway Workshop at SFN 2016 meeting
by Ted Carnevale July 18, 2016

July 18, 2016

Using the Neuroscience Gateway Portal for Parallel Simulation Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 AM to noon at a site in downtown San Diego This workshop combines didactic presentations and hands-on instruction on how to use the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) for computationally intensive simulations and data analysis. NSG eliminates most technical and adminstrative barriers to using high performance computing resources, and even gives away free CPU time on parallel supercomputers. Software currently installed on NSG includes Brian, GENESIS, MOOSE, NEST, NEURON, PyNN, Freesurfer, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. The registration deadline for this workshop is Friday Oct. 28, but you should sign up early because space is limited. See http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2016/nsg2016.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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NEURON course at SFN 2016 meeting
by Ted Carnevale July 18, 2016

July 18, 2016

Using NEURON to Model Cells and Networks Friday, Nov. 11 from 9 AM to 5 PM at a site in downtown San Diego This course provides a practical introduction to building and using models of neurons and networks with NEURON. Covered topics include basic concepts, workflow for building and using models, speeding up simulations with parallel hardware from multicore personal computers to massively parallel supercomputers, using Python with NEURON, and modeling reactive diffusion with the RxD class. The registration deadline for this course is Friday Oct. 28, but you should sign up early because space is limited. See http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/sd2016/sd2016.html for more information and a link to the registration form. --Ted

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Subject: Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience
by Szabolcs Káli July 15, 2016

July 15, 2016

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position in the Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research at the Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The institute, located in the center of Budapest, is dedicated to biomedical research in the field of neuroscience, hosts a variety of world-class research groups, and was awarded the title “Centre of Excellence” by the European Commission. The laboratory, led by Prof. Tamás Freund, employs a multidisciplinary approach to investigate the generation of normal and pathological patterns of network activity in the hippocampus, the roles of subcortical inputs in cortical information processing, and the molecular mechanisms of synaptic transmission. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Szabolcs Káli on developing detailed biophysical models of hippocampal neurons and circuits in the context of a large-scale initiative for collaborative work in computational neuroscience. The aim of the project is (1) to further the understanding of the dynamics and computational capabilities of cortical cells and networks, and (2) to create a generic framework and corresponding tools for the reproducible, collaborative development, simulation, and validation of data-driven neural models. The successful applicant is expected to contribute to both aspects of the project, developing morphologically and biophysically detailed models of different types of hippocampal neurons, and constructing anatomically and physiologically faithful models of hippocampal circuits. The work will take advantage of the neuroinformatics, brain simulation, and high-performance computing infrastructure developed by the European Human Brain Project, and the holder of this post is expected to make significant contributions to testing an integrative platform for model development, representation, optimization, and validation. He/she will work closely with experimentalists within the group who provide anatomical and physiological data, and is expected to coordinate model and tool development with collaborators at leading European institutions. The job also offers ample opportunities to develop and maintain contacts with members of the wider (experimental and modeling) community. We are looking for an individual holding a PhD in computational neuroscience (or related discipline), with a keen interest in applying theoretical and simulation tools to understanding neural information processing. The position requires an ability to work independently, but also as a member of a large international research team. The applicant should be able to communicate effectively in English, both in speech and in writing. We also expect the successful candidate to have experience in at least some of the following areas: - developing cellular or network models using neural simulation software (such as Neuron) - analysis of anatomical and/or electrophysiological data sets - programming (in Python, MATLAB, etc.) and collaborative software development - advanced parameter optimization methods (such as evolutionary algorithms) The position is available from September 1, 2016 (the exact starting date is flexible) until March 31, 2018 in the first instance, with the possibility of renewal. The salary is according to local scales for postdoctoral positions in EU-funded projects, and depends on relevant experience. Review of applications will start on August 10, but applications are accepted until the position is filled. Applications should contain a CV, a brief letter of interest, and two references, and should be sent to Szabolcs Káli (kali(a)koki.hu) Informal inquiries about the post are also welcome. -------------------------------------------------------- Szabolcs Káli Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research Institute of Experimental Medicine Hungarian Academy of Sciences H-1083 Budapest Szigony utca 43. Phone: +36-1-2109413 Fax: +36-1-2109412 E-mail: kali.szabolcs(a)koki.mta.hu www.koki.mta.hu

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Call for participation "From Single Neurons to Brain Complexity and Human Behavior" Research Topic (Frontiers)
by PRWTOPAPA FWTEINH July 14, 2016

July 14, 2016

Dear potential authors on the comp-neuro mailing list, [Apologies for cross-posting]In collaboration with Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience, we are organizing a Research Topic titled "From Single Neurons to Brain Complexity and Human Behavior", hosted by Constantinos Siettos, Jens Starke, Konstantinos Michmizos, Foteini Protopapa, Nikolaos Smyrnis. As host editor, I would like to encourage you to contribute to this topic. Please find more information below: Web site: http://frontiersin.org/Computa tional_Neuroscience/researchto pics/From_Single_Neurons_to_ Brain_Complexity_and_Human_ Behavior/5116Deadlines for this Research Topic are: Oct 01, 2016 (Abstract) and Feb 01, 2017 (Manuscript)Description: During brain data acquisition, from the neural to the behavioral scale, the targeted brain function is typically secluded from the influence of other brain functions. Such an approach results in data acquired at a single spatial and temporal scale of the brain and limits the analysis and understanding of the intrinsically multiscale and parallel brain functions. This calls for a paradigm shift from examining the brain as a monolithic structure to examining –and interacting with– the brain holistically. The proposed Research Topic aims to attract papers that will form a new computational infrastructure resource by combining novel integrative methods in Computational Neuroscience. Specifically, the research focus will be on: 1) The development of new methods and algorithms that can deal with multiscale dynamics and integrate data from synchronized behavioral and neural activity; and 2) The improved understanding of the neural dynamics in behavioral states. The understanding of brain functionality across its scales will have an unprecedented health, social and financial impact. The proposed Research Topic will host advanced mathematical modeling efforts and computational approaches that seek to understand how the interplay among cellular, anatomical and neuronal connectome empowers complex brain functions such as vision, attention, memory, learning and emotion. Tools include, but are not limited to, linear and nonlinear time series analysis of single unit recordings, EEG, MEG, fMRI and PET as well as multiscale modeling and analysis of neuronal systems dynamics, causal connectivity analysis (Granger-based, Phase Synchronization, Mutual Information, Transfer Entropy etc), manifold and machine learning methodologies for handling data complexity (PCA, ICA, ISOMAP, Diffusion Maps) etc. We seek to present research efforts that bridge the bottom-up and top-down approaches. A bottom-up research includes modelling the dynamics of neurons and/or networks of neurons to approximate the complex emergent behavior whereas a top-down research would try to reveal how macroscale phenomena observed in integrative EEG, MEG or fMRI signals can be used to infer about the brain organization and ultimately explain the underlying functional mechanisms. Specific areas of interest include but are not limited to: the reconstruction of functional networks that govern the information flow of the brain signals, the identification of distinct spatio-temporal patterns that can suggest the mechanisms of specific higher cognitive functions, and the modeling and analysis of resting-state activity. We will try to cover studies targeting the healthy brain as well as studies targeting neurologic and psychiatric disorders in adults (such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease Schizophrenia and other Psychotic disorders) and/or in children and adolescents (such as child epilepsy and autistic spectrum disorders). Let us know if you have any questions about this Research Topic. We look forward to hearing from you soon. With best regards, Constantinos Siettos (ksiet(a)mail.ntua.gr) Associate Professor at National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Greece.and Foteini Protopapa, Ph.D. ( fwteini104(a)gmail.com ) Research Associate at EPIPSI, Greece.

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4 PhD / PostDoc positions in the Institute of Neural Information Processing, Ulm University, Germany
by Daniel Braun July 13, 2016

July 13, 2016

In the *Institute of Neural Information Processing* of the Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology of Ulm University there will be *4 PhD / PostDoc positions in the field of Learning Systems* from October 2016 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-and-results/erc-funded-projects/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. Previous publications of the group can be found under http://www.kyb.tuebingen.mpg.de/research/rg/braun.html 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 within the SFB Transregio 62 and 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 University of Ulm James-Franck-Ring D-89081 Ulm Germany phone: +49 (0)731 50 - 24151 <%2B49%20%280%29731%2050%20-%2024158> fax: +49 (0)731 50 - 24156 email: daniel.braun(a)uni-ulm.de

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POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY
by Wilson Truccolo July 11, 2016

July 11, 2016

Applications for an NIH-funded post-doctoral position are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic models of multiscale neural dynamics in human epilepsy. Data consist of simultaneous intracortical microelectrode array recordings of ensembles of single neurons and local field potentials, as well as ECoGs, during seizure and non-seizure states in individuals with pharmacologically resistant epilepsy. The project involves a collaboration between the labs of Dr. Truccolo and Dr. Sydney Cash (Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience, modeling of stochastic neural dynamics and experiments involving closed-loop electrical stimulation. Related recent publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/ <http://dl.dropbox.com/u/983891/Truccolo_home.htm>). Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

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Ph.D. positions in computational neuroscience at ESI
by Martin Vinck July 9, 2016

July 9, 2016

The laboratory of Dr. Martin Vinck at the *Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society *is seeking candidates for Ph.D. positions. Students will work on two classes of problems. First, we aim to solve various methodological / neurostatistical problems for offline and on-line, closed-loop analysis of multivariate neuroscience datasets. Second, we are developing models of visual cortex in order to test specific hypotheses about the relationship between cortical dynamics and computation. PhD students will work together with experimental neuroscientists and apply methods and models to experimental datasets from primate and rodent animal models, including electrophysiological and calcium imaging data. We are primarily looking for students with training in a quantitative discipline (physics, engineering, computer science etc.). Interested candidates are invited to send their application materials in electronic form (PDF format) to martin.vinck(a)esi-frankfurt.de Applications should contain a letter of intent, a detailed curriculum vitae, lists of university courses completed with marks obtained, and the names of at least two scientists who can give references. The advertisement will be valid until positions are filled. Dr. Martin Vinck martin.vinck(a)esi-frankfurt.de Research Group Leader Ernst Struengmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society Deutschordenstr. 46, D-60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

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PhD/postdoc positions at Ernst Struengmann Institute for Neuroscience
by Martin Vinck July 9, 2016

July 9, 2016

Our laboratory at the Ernst Struengmann Institute for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society is seeking candidates for Postdoc and Ph.D. positions. Projects involve the application of parallel, large-scale electrophysiological recording techniques of single units and EEG in combination with closed-loop optogenetic manipulation methods to investigate mechanisms of information encoding and transmission in mice brains. We are particularly interested in the way in which the brain efficiently encodes information, and the way in which sensory predictions established in higher areas influence sensory representations in earlier sensory areas. We are furthermore interested in investigating the role of GABAergic interneurons in selective attention and neuronal oscillations. We address these questions using laminar recordings in combination with optogenetics in mice, as well as through the development of novel tools for the quantitative analysis of large-scale electrophysiological data. Within the ESI, tight collaborations exist with the lab of Prof. Dr. Pascal Fries. Because we are searching for members that can strengthen an interdisciplinary team, we are encouraging students/researchers with a background either in biological/medical sciences or in physics/engineering/mathematics/etc. to apply. The ideal PhD or postdoc candidate has previous experience and strengths either in 1) performing hands-on experimental work and electrophysiological recordings or 2) hardware engineering and quantitative analysis of large-scale data. We are searching for applicants with good communication skills and a high commitment and curiosity about neuroscientific questions. Interested candidates are invited to send their application materials in electronic form (PDF format) to martin.vinck(a)esi-frankfurt.de Applications should contain a letter of intent, a detailed curriculum vitae, lists of university courses completed with marks obtained (only for PhD candidates), and the names of at least two scientists who can give references. The advertisement will be valid until positions are filled. Dr. Martin Vinck martin.vinck(a)esi-frankfurt.de Research Group Leader Ernst Struengmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society Deutschordenstr. 46, D-60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

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Tenured Junior Research/Teaching Faculty Position in Computational Neuroscience at Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris, France
by Boris Gutkin July 8, 2016

July 8, 2016

Tenured Junior Research/Teaching Faculty Position in Computational Neuroscience at Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris, France A tenured junior faculty position is expected to open in the Department of Cognitive Studies (DEC) at the ENS-Paris. The position profile is broad, focusing on computational neuroscience. The recruited candidate will join the Group for Neural Theory, which is part of the Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience,DEC, ENS Paris. The candidate is expected to have a strong background in theoretical neuroscience and/or computational neuroscience. The candidate is expected to develop an active research program and integrate into the GNT. Teaching in neuroscience and computational neuroscience shall be done at the ENS within the cognitive sciences masters program. The Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience provides opportunities to develop a collaborative research program in computational neuroscience of decision making. Further collaborative opportunities exist within the department and local laboratories involved in electrophysiology and/or psychophysics. The next cycle of recruitment for a Junior Faculty position in computational neuroscience shall be announced in the spring of 2017. In order to apply for the position candidates need to pre-qualify with the National University Council. The deadline for the pre-qualification is in October 2016. Help with putting together the application shall be given to potential candidates who should contact mc.comp.gnt(a)gmail.com

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Special Issue of Applied Soft Computing on Non-iterative Approaches in Learning
by Teng Teck Hou July 8, 2016

July 8, 2016

Special Issue of Applied Soft Computing (Elsevier) (Impact Factor: 2.8) Submission is open now Special Issue on Non-iterative Approaches in Learning (Includes comparisons with iterative methods) Call for Papers http://www.journals.elsevier.com/applied-soft-computing/call-for-papers/spec ial-issue-on-non-iterative-approaches-in-learning-includ/ Optimization, which plays a central role in learning, has received considerable attention from academics, researchers, and domain workers. Many optimization problems in machine learning are solved by iterative methods which generate a sequence of improving approximated solutions with some termination criteria. These methods usually suffer from low convergence rate and are sensitive to parameter settings (such as learning rate/step size, maximum number of iterations). On the other hand, non-iterative solutions, which are usually presented in closed-form manner, are in general computationally faster than iterative solutions. However, comparative studies with iterative methods are also welcome. The main focus of this special issue is to present the recent advances in non-iterative solutions in learning. Original contributions and surveys are welcome. The special issue aims to promote non-iterative concepts in the field of learning. Even though non-iterative methods have attracted much attention in recent years, there exists a performance gap when compared with older methods and other competing paradigms. This special issue aims to bridge this gap. Besides the dissemination of the latest research results on non-iterative algorithms, it is also expected that this special issue will cover some industrial applications, present some new ideas and identify directions for future studies. The topics of the special issue include, but are not limited to: * Methods with and without randomization * Regression, classification and time series * Kernel methods such as kernel ridge regression, kernel adaptive filters, etc. * Feedforward, recurrent, multilayer, deep and other structures. * Ensemble learning * Moore-Penrose pseudo inverse, SVD and other solution procedures. * Non-iterative methods for large-scale problems with and without kernels * Theoretical analysis of non-iterative methods * Comparative studies with competing iterative methods * Applications of non-iterative solutions in domains such as power systems, biomedical, finance, signal processing, big data and all other areas Submission format and Guidelines Papers will be evaluated based on their originality, presentation, relevance and contribution to the development of non-iterative methods, as well as their suitability and the quality in terms of both technical contribution and writing. The submitted papers must be written in good English and describe original research which has not been published nor is currently under review by other journals or conferences. If used, the previously published conference papers should be clearly identified by the authors (at the submission stage) and an explanation should be provided how such papers have been extended to be considered for this special issue. Guest Editors will make an initial determination on the suitability and scope of all submissions. Papers that either lack originality, clarity in presentation or fall outside the scope of the special issue will not be sent for review and the authors will be promptly informed of such cases. Author guidelines for preparation of manuscript can be found at http://www.journals.elsevier.com/applied-soft-computing/ Manuscripts should be submitted online at: http://ees.elsevier.com/asoc/ Applied Soft Computing Journal is well indexed. Its impact factors are 2.8 (2 years) and 3.2 (5 years). Important dates Manuscript submission: 15th Aug 2016 Revised version submission: 31st Jan 2017 Acceptance notification: 31st March 2017 Expected Publication: Mid 2017 Guest Editors Dr P N Suganthan, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. epnsugan(a)ntu.edu.sg Prof. Sushmita Mitra, Indian Statistical Institute, India. sushmita(a)isical.ac.in Dr Ivan Tyukin, Department of Mathematics, University of Leicester, UK. I.Tyukin(a)le.ac.uk

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IEEE CIDM 2016
by Friedhelm Schwenker July 6, 2016

July 6, 2016

CALL FOR PAPERS Paper Submission Deadline: July 18, 2016 IEEE CIDM 2016 IEEE Symposium on Computational Intelligence and Data Mining December 6-9, 2016, Athens, Greece SSCI 2016:http://ssci2016.cs.surrey.ac.uk/CIDM.htm CIDM 2016:http://neuro.informatik.uni-ulm.de/CIDM2016/ IEEE CIDM 2016 organized by the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society Data Mining Technical Committee is part (one of 30 symposia) of the IEEE Symposium Series of Computational Intelligence (IEEE SSCI 2016). IEEE CIDM 2016 will bring together researchers and practitioners from around the world to discuss the latest advances in the field of computational intelligence applied to data mining and will act as a major forum for the presentation of recent results in theory, algorithms, systems and applications. Topics related to all aspects of data mining, such as theories, algorithms, systems and applications, particularly those based on computational intelligence technologies, are welcome; these include, but are not limited to: • Neural networks for data mining • Evolutionary algorithms for data mining • Fuzzy sets for data mining • Data mining with soft computing • Foundations of data mining • Mining with big data • Classification, Clustering, Regression • Association • Feature learning and feature engineering • Machine learning algorithms • Multimedia data mining • Text mining • Link and graph mining • Social media mining • Collaborative filtering • Crowd sourcing • Personalization • Security, privacy and social impact of data mining • Data mining applications Important Dates • Paper submission: July 18, 2016 • Notification to authors: September 12, 2016 • Final submission: October 10, 2016 • Early registration: October 10, 2016 Co-Chairs Carlotta Domeniconi, Georg Mason University, USA Friedhelm Schwenker, Ulm University, Germany Zhi-Hua Zhou, Nanjing University, China -- PD Dr. Friedhelm Schwenker University of Ulm Institute of Neural Information Processing D-89069 Ulm, Germany phone: +49-731-50-24159 fax: +49-731-50-24156 email: friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de www: http://www.uni-ulm.de/in/neuroinformatik/mitarbeiter/f-schwenker.html

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Postdoctoral position in Computational Neuroscience at IIT (Italy)
by Stefano Panzeri July 5, 2016

July 5, 2016

(apologies for cross posting) We are seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience in the Neural Computation Laboratory at the IIT https://www.iit.it/research/lines/neural-computation directed by Stefano Panzeri and located in Rovereto (Trento), Italy. This laboratory aims to crack the neural code using neural network modeling and computational analyses of neurophysiological experiments. The laboratory offers a range of strongly interdisciplinary expertise in computational neuroscience, including information theory and other types of advanced single-trial neural analyses, advanced spectral analysis, and biophysically plausible neural network modeling. The successful candidate will develop and use tools for the analysis of large-scale simultaneous recordings of the spiking activity of cells in the cortex to understand how populations of neurons carry information. The successful candidate would have the opportunity to benefit from an extensive set of existing collaborations with leading neurophysiological laboratories, including those of Nikos Logothetis at Max Planck Tubingen (collaborating on oscillations, sensory information coding and neuromodulation), Tommaso Fellin at IIT (collaborating on Optogenetics, Neurophysiology and Neural coding), Mathew Diamond at SISSA (collaborating on the behavioral impact of information carried by spike timing), and Christopher Harvey at Harvard Medical School (collaborating on neural population dynamics and decision making). We are willing to consider candidates interested in any of the aspects of neural coding of interest to the laboratory. Candidates must hold a PhD in a numerate scientific discipline. They must be highly motivated and creative individuals who want to work in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research environment and be willing to interact with both experimental and theoretical neuroscientists. For reference to recent work of the lab please see Safaai, H., et al (2015) Modelling the effect of Locus Coeruleous firing on single trial cortical state dynamics and sensory processing. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 112(41): 12834–12839 Zuo Y, et al (2015) Spike timing and spike rate make complementary contributions to perceptual decisions in rat S1 and S2 cortex. Current Biology 25: 357-363 Besserve M, Lowe S, Logothetis NK, Scholkopf B, Panzeri S (2015) Shifts of gamma phase across primary visual cortical sites reflect dynamic stimulus- modulated information transfer. PLoS Biology 13(9): e1002257. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.1002257 Panzeri, S, et al (2015) Neural population coding: combining insights from microscopic and mass signals, Trends in Cognitive Sciences 19: 162-172. Interested candidates should contact Dr. Stefano Panzeri ( stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it <https://mail.iit.it/owa/redir.aspx?C=oajclq8rPE6FcMCJ-lI1Hsu55NFH69II9YBluB…>), emailing their CV, a brief statement of research interests, and names and email addresses of 2 or 3 referees.

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Associate Professor Position in Data Sciences (Big Data) at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences
by Hans Ekkehard Plesser July 5, 2016

July 5, 2016

Dear Colleagues! The Department of Mathematical Sciences and Technology (IMT) at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) has a permanent, full-time position available for an Associate Professor in Data Sciences (Big Data). The position is part of the University's programme for the recruitment of top researchers, which aims to recruit young researchers with great potential for NMBU. The position will include: • one PhD Position (3 years) • NOK 0.25 million in operating funds Application deadline is 1 October 2016. For details, please see https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/127472/associate-professor-i… Best, Hans Ekkehard Plesser -- Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser, Associate Professor Section Head Dept. of Mathematical Sciences and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no Home http://arken.umb.no/~plesse

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2 open PhD positions at TU Dresden, Germany
by Stefan Kiebel July 5, 2016

July 5, 2016

The Department of Psychology at the TU Dresden (Chair of Neuroimaging, PI: Stefan Kiebel) is looking for two PhD students. One of the PhD student positions is in experimental cognitive neuroscience, and one is in computational neuroscience. Both PhD positions will be working at the interface between computational and experimental neuroimaging research in cognitive control and goal-directed action sequences. Detailed information about both positions can be found at: http://tiny.cc/8ii4by Both positions are part of the DFG-funded CRC 940 'volition and cognitive control' (http://www.sfb940.de/en/home.html) The CRC was established in 2012 and will be funded for the next four years. The CRC aims at identifying the cognitive and neuronal mechanism, which underlie the volitional control of goal-directed actions as well as its dysfunctions in selected mental disorders. PhD position 1: The candidate will work as a member of a team in the CRC940-Project A9 on computational modelling of goal-directed actions and explaining dynamics in cognitive control in terms of variations in meta-control parameters. In this project, neuroimaging (fMRI and EEG) experiments will be used to test hypotheses derived using advanced Bayesian models of goal-reaching over multiple trials. http://tiny.cc/8ii4by (PhD position Cognitive Neuroscience) PhD position 2: The candidate will work as a member of a team in the CRC940-Project Z2 on advanced computational modelling of functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography data. In this project, advanced modelling techniques will be developed and extended to enable testing novel experimental hypotheses using fMRI and EEG. http://tiny.cc/8ii4by (PhD position Computational Neuroscience) --> The application deadline for both positions is the 14th of July. -- Prof. Dr. Stefan Kiebel Technische Universität Dresden School of Science Department of Psychology 01062 Dresden, Germany Tel.: +49 (351) 463-43145 Fax: +49 (351) 463-43147

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Research Engineer position - Axion/Columbia
by Robert Butera July 1, 2016

July 1, 2016

Passing this on for a colleague - contact the email address in the job ad for more information. RESEARCH ENGINEER Axion BioSystems, Inc. is a life science company located in Atlanta, GA. We design, develop and manufacture instrumentation used for the precise monitoring and control of excitable cells. Axion’s products are used by pharmaceutical and biotech companies, governmental agencies, and universities for drug safety, drug discovery, and disease modeling assays. We are currently seeking an energetic scientist to lead Axion’s efforts in a collaboration with the Institute for Genomic Medicine (IGM) at Columbia University. The objective of the collaboration is to interrogate the genetic mechanisms of epilepsy with multiwell microelectode array (MEA) technology. The newly developed IGM is an integral part of Columbia University’s Precision Medicine Initiative. As part of this Initiative, the IGM performs comprehensive genomic analyses on more than 10,000 patient genomes per year in order to identify new therapeutic targets of neurodevelopmental disorders including epilepsy. In order to understand how the implicated mutation affects disease, the laboratories of David Goldstein and Michael Boland use both primary neurons from mouse models of epilepsy and neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells to study the effects of epilepsy gene mutations on neurodevelopment and neural network behavior. The selected individual will contribute analytical and electrophysiological expertise to complement a highly skilled team of molecular biologists. JOB FUNCTIONS: • Execution of neurophysiological experiments with the multiwell MEA platform. The ability to interpret or debug experiments in real-time is important, such as distinguishing signal from noise or artifacts. • Analysis of large electrophysiological data sets, primarily from the multiwell MEA platform, but also including complementary in vivo data. • Develop experimental hypotheses and identify expected results. Must confirm results through independent analysis and investigate any discrepancies that appear, while understanding the strengths and limitations of model systems (i.e., cellular vs. animal). • Drive innovation of the multiwell MEA assay, leading to new experimental methods and analytical techniques. • Work well in a fast-paced, collaborative environment at Columbia University in New York City, with an ability to communicate well with the Axion team in Atlanta. REQUIREMENTS: • PhD in neuroscience or neuroengineering. A recent post-doc experience is a plus. • Hands-on research experience with electrophysiology techniques. Specific experience with MEA technology is desired. • Biostatistical and data analysis experience. • Experience with software analysis tools such as MATLAB or MiniTAB. • Attention to detail with good documentation and communication skills. • U.S Citizenship or permanent residency required. USEFUL KNOWLEDGE: The following are not required, but will enhance an applicant’s candidacy. • Hands on experience in general biological protocols including knowledge of primary cell dissociation, cell culture protocols, CRISPR, gene editing, and basic molecular techniques. • Experience with screening technologies, such as high-throughput patch clamp or high content imaging. • Knowledge of pharmacology and neurotoxicity research. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you are interested in this position, please send your resume and cover letter to careers(a)axionbio.com

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CFP: Advances in Biologically Inspired Reservoir Computing
by John Butcher July 1, 2016

July 1, 2016

Dear all, We are seeking papers for a special issue on Reservoir Computing, paper submission deadline is 31st September 2016. For more details see below and http://ispac.diet.uniroma1.it/cognitive-computation-special-issue/ Many thanks *Scope and motivation* *Reservoir computing is a family of techniques for training and analyzing recurrent neural networks, wherein the recurrent portion of the network is assigned before the training process, typically via stochastic assignment of its weights. The non-linear reservoir acts as a high-dimensional kernel space, which generates complex dynamics characterized by sharp transitions between ordered and chaotic regimes. The behavior of this model emulates the functioning of many biological (complex) systems, among which the brain.* *Driven by the conceptual simplicity of the reservoir and by links with neuroscience, computer science and systems’ theory, researchers have achieved remarkable breakthroughs, both in theory and in practice. These include dynamical models for explaining the working behavior of reservoirs, unsupervised strategies for the adaptation of the network, and the design of unconventional computing architectures for its execution.* *The recent upsurge of interest in fully adaptable recurrent networks, far from shifting the attention from the field, has brought renewed interest in reservoir computing models. In our era of extreme computational power and sophisticated problems, it is essential to understand the limits and the potentialities of simple (both deterministic and random) collections of processing units. For this reason, many fundamental questions remain open, including the design of optimal task-dependent reservoirs in a stable fashion, novel investigations on the memory and power capabilities of reservoir devices, and their applicability in an ever-increasing range of domains.* *In light of this, the aim of this special issue is to provide a unified platform for bringing forth and advancing the state-of-the-art in reservoir computing approaches. Researchers are invited to submit innovative works on the theory and implementation of this family of techniques, in order to provide an up-to-date overview on the field.* *Topics* *The topics of interest to be covered by this Special Issue include, but are not limited to:* *-Theoretical analyses on the computational power of reservoir computing.* *-Deep reservoir models.* *-Techniques for the automatic adaptation of the reservoir and the readout.* *-Supervised, unsupervised and semi-supervised training criteria.* *-Non-conventional substrates for the implementations of reservoirs.* *-Parallel and distributed algorithms for reservoir computing.* *-Comparisons between reservoir computing and standard (deep) neural networks.* *-Reservoir computing for reinforcement learning problems.* *-Fundamental links between reservoir computing and neuroscientific findings.* *-Investigation of reservoir dynamic in a phase space of reduced dimensionality.* *-Applicative papers in all areas (including robotics, industrial control, etc.) are welcome, as well as outstanding surveys on specific aspects of the field.* -- Dr John Butcher Neuroscience Research Associate School of Life Sciences Huxley Building Keele University UK ST5 5BG http://www.keele.ac.uk/lifesci/people/researchassistants/johnbutcher/

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Postdoctoral Scholar in memory neuroscience using computational/modelling approach
by Sze Chai Kwok July 1, 2016

July 1, 2016

Dear all, I am looking to employ a post-doc in memory neuroscience using computational/modelling approach <http://icn.ecnu.edu.cn/Data/View/1066>. Please spread the word to interested parties. Thank you. *Postdoctoral Scholar in **memory neuroscience**using computational/modelling approach * ** A postdoctoral position is available in the Laboratory of Attention and Memory (PI: Sze Chai Kwok) in the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at East China Normal University (ECNU) in Shanghai, China. Research will study the theoretical and neurobiological basis of episodic memory. Focus will be on the development of cognitive and/or biophysical network models using cross-species data from both human fMRI (with TMS) and ECoG, extra-cellular LFP / whole-cell recordings (combined with ire/reversible intervention) in awake monkeys performing analogous memory tasks using naturalistic stimuli such as videos. Candidates are expected to take advantage of the Lab’s unique experimental expertise in both humans and macaques. The Lab has active collaboration with groups in UCL, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, UCLA, and University of Oxford. Appointment is contingent upon completion of a PhD in computer science, mathematics, physics or other quantitative disciplines. Relevant research experience in modelling would be preferable. Salary is commensurate with experience. This postdoc appointment will run for initially a period of two years with a flexible starting date. Interested candidates should initiate informal inquiries and/or send a CV, a statement of research interests, representative first-author publications (in one single PDF), and references to: sk5899(a)nyu.edu <mailto:sk5899@nyu.edu>. Applications are accepted beginning now, and will continue until the position is filled. Sze Chai Kwok, DPhil Associate Professor at East China Normal University Associated faculty at NYU-Shanghai University (<http://shanghai.nyu.edu/research/brain/faculty/sze-chai-kwok>http://shanghai.nyu.edu/research/brain/faculty/sze-chai-kwok) -- ------------------------------ 5x1000 PER LA NOSTRA RICERCA SANITARIA <http://www.hsantalucia.it/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=999> la tua firma, il nostro codice fiscale: 97138260589 <http://www.hsantalucia.it/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=999> ------------------------------ Le informazioni contenute in questo messaggio sono riservate e destinate esclusivamente alla/e persona/e o all'ente sopra indicati. E' vietato ai soggetti diversi dai destinatari qualsiasi uso, copia e diffusione di quanto in esso contenuto sia ai sensi dell'art. 616 del codice penale che ai sensi della L. 196/03 (privacy). Se questo messaggio Vi e' pervenuto per errore, Vi preghiamo di non leggerlo, di distruggerlo e di comunicarci l'errore via e-mail o telefonando al numero +39 06515011. The information contained in this message is confidential and is intended for the exclusive use of the person(s) or company(s) above addessed. If you are not the intended recipient(s), you are expressly prohibited from using, copying and distributing this message or any part of it in accordance with art. 616 of the criminal code and the law 196/03 (privacy). If you receive this message please don't read it but destroy it and then inform us by e-mail or by phone - number +39 06515011.

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PhD positions at the CTNSC-UniFe , Ferrara
by Emma Maggiolini June 30, 2016

June 30, 2016

The Center for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication (CTNSC) at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) is looking for up to 4 highly motivated, full-time PhD students to work in the core research areas of the Center. The PhD student will work in Ferrara, in an international and multidisciplinary team including biomedical engineers, biologists, computer scientists, psychologists and medical doctors. The PhD positions will cover the following core areas of CTNSC. DEADLINE: 5TH AUGUST 2016 CTNSC Info [ITA/ENG]: https://www.iit.it/centers/ctnsc-unife PhD page [ITA/ENG]: http://www.unife.it/studenti/dottorato/concorsi/selection How to participate to the selection [ITA/ENG]:http://www.unife.it/studenti/dottorato/modulistica/concorsi/32-ciclo/neurosciences.pdf * Functional investigation of innovative neural interfaces Evidences show that using electrophysiological techniques is possible to extract information about brain processes and then translate these signals into commands that could be used to recover the lost capabilities. The purpose of the project is to investigate the in-vivo performance of novel devices - both in-house developed or obtained from collaborating laboratories - with a focus on i) enhanced capability to record neural signals; ii) large charge transfer capability to enhance the stimulation performance and iii) small size to minimize inflammatory reaction and gliosis. The candidate will be involved in the development of a stable and functional interface between living neural tissue and probes in rat model. Techniques: in-vivo single-unit recording and epicortical recording , histological techniques and image analysis, microscopy techniques and data analysis. Requirements: The candidate should have a background in one or more of the following fields: biology, medicine, pharmacology or related disciplines. Programming experience is appreciated but not mandatory. Familiarity with electrophysiological and/or microscopy techniques is of advantage. Contacts: Dr. Emma Maggiolini: emma.maggiolini(a)iit.it<mailto:emma.maggiolini@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Animal neurophysiology investigation of sensorimotor functions The discovery of mirror and canonical neurons in monkey premotor and parietal cortex motivated a number of studies on how sensorimotor transformations in the brain may support understanding of action performed by conspecifics. This still constitute a fundamental area of research which is necessary to unravel the basic mechanisms of sensorimotor sharing during social interaction. The candidate working in this core area will investigate, in animal models, the neuronal activity of different (motor and somatosensory) cortical regions, pointing out their topographic organization as well as their role during observation, planning and execution of particular motor acts. Techniques: multidisciplinary approach involving behavioral testing, electrophysiological techniques (intracortical microstimulation, single-unit recording, field potentials recording, electromyography) and histological evaluations. Requirements: The candidate must have a background in the biological fields (biology, medicine, pharmacy and similar). At the end of the three-year period, the Ph.D. student will obtain deep knowledge and experience on in vivo neuroscience. Contacts: Dr. Riccardo Viaro: riccardo.viaro(a)iit.it<mailto:riccardo.viaro@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Brain- and multimodal signal- based speech recognition Our approach to speech recognition is an "analysis by synthesis" approach which assumes that in order to recognize speech we need to understand the causal process (i.e., the speech production process) that stems from brain activity and, through coordinated movements of the vocal tract articulators, produces speech sounds. Such approach is largely motivated by work on speech perception carried out at CTNSC and serves two goals. The first goal is to build automatic speech recognition systems that, as humans do, work in very challenging scenarios (e.g., in the so called "cocktail party" scenario) and are able to learn how to recognize speech without relying on huge amount of carefully annotated speech data (as opposed to "data hungry" current recognition systems). The second goal is to recognize speech from one or more modalities that are within the speech production process, e.g., from brain signal or from visual and kinematic signals of the face and the vocal tract. Techniques: Machine learning, deep neural network, multimodal signal processing. Requirements: The successful candidate will have a degree in computer science bioengineering, physics or related disciplines. A background in machine learning and in speech and language processing. Contacts: Dr. Leonardo Badino: leonardo.badino(a)iit.it<mailto:leonardo.badino@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Human Neurophysiology investigation of speech and communication abilities by means of micro-electrocorticography Historically, the study of speech processing has emphasized a strong link between auditory perceptual input and motor production output. The main aim of this area is to describe the neural systems involved in this sensorimotor representation linking speech perception and production. To this purpose, we use high-density surface microelectrodes for electrocorticography (micro-ECoG) to record electrical signals directly from the cortical surface in patients during awake surgery for low-grade glioma resection. Micro-ECoG is an important electrophysiological signal recording technique that combines high temporal resolution with good spatial localization. Techniques: Micro-ECoG, direct brain electrical stimulation, functional electrical mapping. Requirements: Applicants are expected to have a degree in biomedical engineering or basic/applied/health sciences. Requirements include a knowledge of neural signal processing and/or neuroimaging skills. Contact: Dr. Luciano Simone: luciano.simone(a)unife.it<mailto:luciano.simone@unife.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> * Human Neurophysiology investigation of speech and sensorimotor communication abilities by means of non-invasive techniques The neural mechanisms underlying speech and sensorimotor communication abilities, during real-life social encounters are mostly unknown. In the classic motor control frame of reference, individuals can be conceived as proactively building models of their action and of their sensory consequence. During interaction, these sensorimotor models can be extended to the social space whereby the control signal becomes the negotiated behavior of other people. The candidate will help in mapping the brain activities responsible for the emergence of such a shared behavior, in the domain of speech (phonological level) or action (upper arm movements). These experiments will inform the next generation of biologically inspired automatic communication recognition systems, essential to augment natural human-human coordination and promote the future of efficient human-robot interaction. Techniques: Electroencephalography (EEG), Electromyography (EMG), body motion kinematics (MoCap), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), transcranial Direct (tDCs) and Alternate (tACs) current stimulation. Requirements: The successful candidate will have a background in neuroscience, experimental psychology, computer science or engineering. Programming skills as well as a strong interest in cognitive neuroscience are fundamental. Electroencephalographic and kinematic data analyses skills are a plus. Contact: Dr. Alessandro D'Ausilio: alessandro.dausilio(a)iit.it<mailto:alessandro.dausilio@iit.it> Prof. Luciano Fadiga: luciano.fadiga(a)iit.it<mailto:luciano.fadiga@iit.it> [Description: cid:image001.jpg@01CC9EC9.BA36CB30] Emma Maggiolini, PhD IIT@unife, Center for Translational Neurophysiology Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy Tel. +39 0532 455983 SKYPE ID: lilmay75 e-mail: emma.maggiolini(a)iit.it<mailto:emma.maggiolini@iit.it> www.iit.it<http://www.iit.it/>

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CNS2016 tutorial on detailed neuronal modelling
by Ben TN June 30, 2016

June 30, 2016

On Saturday July 2 there is an exciting tutorial at the yearly CNS meeting titled: “Detailed modeling of structure and function at the cellular level”. This tutorial will be given by Dr. Ben Torben-Nielsen and Dr. Yann Le Franc. If you are at the CNS meeting, this is your chance to get expert insights into the wondrous world of dendrites and axons, their shape and dynamics emerging on them. The tutorial consists of two parts. In the morning session, Dr. Torben-Nielsen will cover the study of neuronal morphologies; why this is important and how we can study them through analysis and synthesis. In the afternoon session, Dr. Yann Le Franc will discuss the dynamics of ionic conductances. This session focusses on the basics of compartmental modelling and the existing neuroinformatics tools used to advance your workflow in dealing with design, implementation and analysis of detailed models. Both sessions will contain a hands on component. Please bring a laptop with Python/Scipy/Numpy/Matplotlib installed on it. For windows and mac users, we recommended Anaconda (https://www.continuum.io/why-anaconda) as it is an easy way to install all required Python packages. In the afternoon session, we will also use the NEURON simulator (https://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/) Please install this package as well with the Python extensions. We can provide guidelines on the installation of these packages during the breaks. Also, if you have structural data of neurons and do not know how to start to analyse them, please bring them along and we can help you out! Kind regards, Ben Dr. Ben Torben-Nielsen Senior Lecturer (Assistant professor) Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire, UK

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CITEC Summer School 2016 on Adaptive Systems - CALL FOR PARTICIPATION
by elisabetta chicca June 30, 2016

June 30, 2016

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR PARTICIPATION *CITEC Summer School 2016 on Adaptive Systems* CITEC, Bielefeld University, Germany, 27th-30th of September 2016 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear young researchers, The CITEC Summer School 2016 is dedicated to the topic of Adaptive Systems: https://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool Adaptivity is the key for coping with tasks or environments whose properties cannot be completely known beforehand - a frequent characteristic of real world situations challenging artificial agents, real robots or biological organisms alike. We offer you an interdisciplary mesh of courses held by an interdisciplinary team of researchers from the Excellence Center Cognitive Interaction Technology to acquaint you with current ideas and research about adaptivity, its foundations, analysis and its synthesis in artificial systems. This year's topic is organized into four major thematic areas: (A) Adaptive Motion (B) Multimodal Learning and Social Interaction (C) Deep Approaches to Relevance Learning (D) Embodiment and Neuromorpic Learning Systems Most of the courses provide the opportunity for hands-on experience, involving experiments or data sets captured in CITEC research labs. You are asked to choose one out of this four. They are complemented by talks of leading invited and local experts. Invited speakers include: - *Ralph Etienne-Cummings**, *Johns Hopkins University, USA - *Kerstin Fischer**, *University of Southern Denmark - *Christian Igel*, University of Copenhagen, Denmark - *Andrew B. Schwartz*, University of Pittsburgh, USA Beyond the courses and the talks of the speakers, attendance will provide you with ample opportunities for discussions, exchange of ideas with your peers and the participating researchers, and for learning more about CITEC. The Summer School continues a series of highly successful CITEC Summer Schools started in 2010 and covering the topics of *The Structure of Cognitive Motion: From Analysis to Synthesis* (2010), *Mechanisms of Attention - From Experimental Studies to Technical Systems* (2011), *Verbal and Non-verbal Interaction: From Experiments to Implementation (*2012), and *Continuous Learning in Living and Artificial Systems* (2013) so far. To apply visit https://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool/application and indicate your area of choice from the above area list (A)-(D). Applications will be open at least until July 29th. For more information, visit http://www.cit-ec.de/summerschool Contact us for questions: summerschool(a)cit-ec.uni-bielefeld.de

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POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY
by Wilson Truccolo June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

Applications for an NIH-funded post-doctoral position are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic models of multiscale neural dynamics in human epilepsy. Data consist of simultaneous intracortical microelectrode array recordings of ensembles of single neurons and local field potentials, as well as ECoGs, during seizure and non-seizure states in individuals with pharmacologically resistant epilepsy. The project involves a collaboration between the labs of Dr. Truccolo and Dr. Sydney Cash (Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience, modeling of stochastic neural dynamics and experiments involving closed-loop electrical stimulation. Related recent publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/ <http://dl.dropbox.com/u/983891/Truccolo_home.htm>). Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

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Postdoctoral position in graph signal processing for monitoring spatio-temporal dynamics of brain activity
by Nicolas Farrugia June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

Postdoctoral position in graph signal processing for monitoring spatio-temporal dynamics of brain activity Telecom Bretagne, Brest, France P.I. : Dr. Vincent Gripon Context The present proposal is funded by the Neural Communication project, which is part of the Labex CominLabs. This project started in November 2015 for a duration of two years as a continuation of the Neural Coding project, also founded by the Labex CominLabs from November 2012 to October 2015. The main goal of the project is to propose models for communications between cortical areas in the brain and to develop novel methodologies for identifying spatio-temporal patterns in brain activity. The project takes advantage of the expertise of two internationnaly renowned teams. The first one is led by Fabrice Wendling, director of research at LTSI in Rennes, and aims at proposing innovative methods for extracting connectivity graphs from EEG signals. The second one (host team) is led by Claude Berrou, professor at Télécom bretagne, and aims at proposing novel models for information processing in neural networks. The host team is also active in the new field of graph signal processing. The host team is composed of three permanent researchers as well as two postdocs and six PhD students. The proposed postdoctoral position is meant to take place in Télécom Bretagne, in Brest. The candidate is expected to work in collaboration with people involved in the ERC project Neucod led by Claude Berrou. Proposal It is now well-known that brain activity is structurally organised into functionally connected networks. Using functional MRI on subjects at rest, resting state networks can be defined as sets of spatially distinct brain areas with temporally correlated activity. While having been extensively studied over long time periods (e.g. 6 minutes), such networks are now investigated using dynamic analysis with a temporal resolution of a few dozens of seconds. Other works are interested in applying similar methodologies to monitoring the dynamics when performing cognitive tasks, as it has been shown that task-related functional networks are spatially similar to resting-state networks. Recently, a novel framework has been developed that aim at exploiting graphical structures of the underlying topology the signals are projected onto, called graph signal processing. As a result, it is possible to define ad hoc harmonic operators including convolutions and wavelets. A major advantage of this approach is the ability to detect similar patterns in distinct regions of the network, despite the inhomogeneity of the network topology. We are interested in applying graph signal processing to brain imaging to study special temporal dynamics, both in the resting state and task-related networks using EEG and fMRI. Details The head of the project is Vincent Gripon, permanent researcher with Télécom Bretagne. Please send your curriculum vitae, contacts for two references, as well as a cover letter to vincent.gripon(a)telecom-bretagne.eu. Expected disposable salary is about 30k{\euro} per year, depending on experience. The position starts in September 2016 (or sooner) and finishes in November 2017. The postdoc position is accompanied with overheads for travel expenses covering the participation to international conferences. The candidate must have defended a Ph.D. related to neuroscience, neuroimaging and familiar with signal processing. Programming skills are essential to this position. The deadline for applying to the position is July 17th.

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EEG and Brain Stimulation Postdoctoral Position in Frohlich Lab at UNC-Chapel Hill
by Sankar Alagapan June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

We are seeking to fill one postdoctoral position in the Frohlich Lab with a candidate who has a proven track record of EEG data analysis. *About this position*: We are collecting high-density EEG from multiple clinical trials in which we evaluate the effect of non-invasive brain stimulation on brain network dynamics and behavior. We are looking for a passionate scientist who is interested in taking charge of the data analysis (EEG, cognitive tasks, clinical scales) to validate network targets for brain stimulation in psychiatry and more broadly the network-level dysfunction of psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. The applicant will be embedded in a vibrant research group of around 20 scientists and will receive (as needed and desired) training in transcranial current stimulation, network neuroscience, and clinical research. The position will include working closely with the study coordinators who run the clinical trials. *About the Frohlich Lab*: We seek to revolutionize the fields of psychiatry and neurology by studying brain network dynamics and applying our discoveries to the rational design of novel brain stimulation treatments. Our research integrates neurobiology, engineering, and medicine to identify, engage, and validate network targets for brain stimulation. We (1) perform computer modeling, (2) combine electrophysiology, imaging, brain stimulation, and behavioral assays in animal models, (3) record and modulate human brain activity, and (4) study new treatments in randomized controlled clinical trials. This position is aligned with items (3) and (4) of our mission. *About UNC at Chapel Hill*: We are a vibrant and nationally top-rated research institution with a strong track record in (translational) neuroscience. UNC has been repeatedly ranked as one of the best places to do a postdoc. Quality of life is very high, cost of living is low. *About the successful candidate*: You have a PhD in neuroscience (or a related discipline) and a track record of first class science demonstrated by first author peer-reviewed scientific articles. Strong background and experience with human EEG data analysis and Matlab is required. Experience in source localization and functional connectivity analysis using EEG will be advantageous. Experience with clinical trials or working with patient populations is a plus. Please send your CV and a brief statement of research interest toflavio_frohlich(a)med.unc.edu. Also, please have two letters of recommendation directly submitted to the same email address. Note: Please only submit an application if your background matches the required expertise for this position. We are looking forward to meeting passionate and hard-working applicants who are ready for this cutting-edge project and for joining the Frohlich Lab family. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Start date is flexible but the earlier the better. UNC is an equal opportunity employer.

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Call for Participation (ICDL-EPIROB 2016): WS on Development of Body Representations
by Matej Hoffmann June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

*Call for papers: Interdisciplinary workshop on the development of body knowledge in humans and machines* 19^th September 2016, Cergy-Pontoise / Paris http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.it/> held in the framework of ICDL-EPIROB 2016 conference: http://www.etis.ensea.fr/neurocyber/ICDL-EPIROB2016/home.php Following the previous workshops on the development of body representations in humans and robots at ICDL-EPIROB, we have the pleasure to announce a forthcoming workshop in Cergy-Pontoise / Paris on the 19^th September 2016. The aim of this workshop is to spark collaboration between roboticists and developmental psychologists in order to address the origins of the sensorimotor maps that underlie own body representations in both infants and robots. The development of infants’ body knowledge is a primary object of discovery starting before birth. This construction ultimately enables the infant to efficiently interact with the environment. The specific goal of the organizers is to explore the possibility of developing robotic models inspired by the development of human infant body representations. Presentations will consider body knowledge acquisition from sensorimotor, neural and computational perspectives. After the presentations, the discussion will aim at establishing an integrative framework for understanding a) the development of body knowledge in infants, b) the mechanisms that underlie body knowledge acquisition and c) how robots can be used to replicate developmental patterns and progressions that have been found in human infants. On the one hand such robots can become new modeling tools for empirical sciences – expanding the domain of computational modeling by anchoring it to the physical environment and a physical body. On the other hand, robot controllers endowed with multimodal whole-body awareness typical of humans should increase robots’ autonomy. ___________________________________________________________________________ We invite contributions concerning the development of body knowledge in humans and/or machines. Please submit a one-page abstract describing your poster by *the 5th of August 2016* to the following address: *icdlbodyworkshop(a)gmail.com* Presenters of a poster will be expected to be present on the 19th of September 2016 for a teasers-session and for the poster session. During the teasers-session each presenter will introduce their poster in a 2-minute oral presentation (with 2-3 pdf slides). During the poster session they will then have the opportunity to explain their poster and to hand out any leaflets or other information materials they have available for viewers of their poster. *___________________________________________________________________________* *Important dates * Abstract submission: August 5, 2016. Notification of acceptance: August 15, 2016. Submission of 2-3 slides (pdf): September 15, 2016. Workshop day: September 19, 2016. ___________________________________________________________________________ *Speakers* * Prof. Jeffrey Lockman, PhD. Department of Psychology, Tulane University, USA. * Kevin O’Regan, PhD. Research scientist, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France. * Matej Hoffmann, PhD. Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy. * Prof. Minoru Asada, PhD. Research director, Division of Cognitive Neuroscience Robotics, Institute for Academic Initiatives, Osaka University, Japan. * Andrew Bremner, PhD. Reader in psychology and head of department, Goldsmiths University, London, UK. * Gianluca Baldassare, PhD. Researcher, Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy.** *____________________________________________ * ** *Venue* Cergy-Pontoise University: http://www.etis.ensea.fr/neurocyber/ICDL-EPIROB2016/home.php ___________________________________________________________________________ *Website* Please check the website <http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/>http://bodyschemaworkshop.blogspot.fr/for updated information about the workshop! ___________________________________________________________________________ *Organizers* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France Matej Hoffmann <https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home>, PhD Researcher, iCub Facility, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy Lorenzo Jamone <http://lorejam.blogspot.pt/>, PhD Associate researcher, VisLab, Instituto de Sistemas e Robotica, Lisbon, Portugal ___________________________________________________________________________ *Contact information* Eszter Somogyi, PhD Postdoc researcher, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Paris Descartes University, France esomogyi(a)gmail.com <mailto:esomogyi@gmail.com> -- Matej Hoffmann, PhD Postdoctoral Researcher iCub Facility Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego, 30 16163 Genoa, Italy https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home

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Computational Modeling of Autism: Roche Internship, Basel Switzerland
by Christopher Chatham June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

Please see below for information about a 9 month internship in Basel, Switzerland, in statistical and computational modeling of ASD. The internship should start before October 2016. Please forward to any PhD students who may be interested in this opportunity. About the position: This position will be based in the Biomarkers and Clinical Imaging Group of the Neuroscience Translational Medicine Section of Roche in Basel, Switzerland. The Biomarkers and Clinical Imaging Group uses cutting edge genetic, molecular, neurophysiological, imaging (PET and MRI), electrophysiology and cognitive methodologies to understand diseases and support drug development efforts in the neuroscience field. The Translational Medicine group oversees the discovery, research and development of novel treatments for diseases in neurological, psychiatric and neurodevelopmental fields. The RiSE program (Roche Internships for Scientific Exchange) offers the most talented postgraduate students the opportunity to enhance their competencies and to gain valuable work experience with us. During the internship your tasks will include: - Statistical analyses of behavioral data from ASD patients - Mathematical modelling of normative behavioral data - Participating in an international workgroup to develop estimates of clinically meaningful change on a clinical symptom rating scale - Attending talks sponsored by groups across the company and Biomarker group meetings - Building your professional network across the company Apply here: http://www.roche.com/careers/jobs/jobsearch/job.htm?id=E-3233464408&locale=…

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Post Graduate School "Cognitive Computing in Socio-Technical Systems" of Ulm University and University of Applied Sciences Ulm
by Friedhelm Schwenker June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

Post Graduate School "Cognitive Computing in Socio-Technical Systems" of Ulm University and University of Applied Sciences Ulm In 2016 Ulm University and the University of Applied Sciences Ulm award *12 scholarships to highly-qualified scientific talents* for preparing the doctoral degree in accordance with the Landesgraduiertenförderungsgesetz (LGFG). Scholarships will be granted for 12 doctoral projects for initially one year, starting – if possible – on 1st October 2016. There will be the option of a two-year extension (i.e. standard funding term is 3 years). The 12 doctoral projects aim at tightly linking the fundamental pillars of cognitive computing, i.e., (i) perception, (ii) planning & reasoning, (iii) learning, and (iv) interaction. Applications include service robotics, Industry 4.0, logistics, and adaptive process management systems. A scholarship can be granted provided that the following conditions are met: * an outstanding qualification, * acceptance as a doctoral candidate in the respective department of Ulm University, and * scientific support by a professor of Ulm University / University of Applied Sciences Ulm. Please submit your application *no later than 1st August 2016*. You may send it, together with the required attachments (e.g., certificates), as PDF file to Prof. Manfred Reichert (email: manfred.reichert(at)uni-ulm.de). Please use the application template provided on our website (see below). As subject of the email use "Application KPK Cognitive Systems". Alternatively, you may send your application to the following postal address: Prof. Dr. Manfred Reichert Universität Ulm, Institut für Datenbanken und Informationssysteme D-89069 Ulm, Germany On your cover letter please write code number 68, KPK "Cognitive Computing" as well as the supervisors of the projects you are interested in. You may find additional Information and the application template on the following website: * http://www.uni-ulm.de/KPK_Cognitive_Computing * http://www.hs-ulm.de/KPK_Cognitive_Computing -- PD Dr. Friedhelm Schwenker University of Ulm Institute of Neural Information Processing D-89069 Ulm, Germany phone: +49-731-50-24159 fax: +49-731-50-24156 email: friedhelm.schwenker(a)uni-ulm.de www: http://www.uni-ulm.de/in/neuroinformatik/mitarbeiter/f-schwenker.html

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Burst coding: extended deadline
by Zeldenrust, Fleur June 28, 2016

June 28, 2016

Dear colleagues, Recently, you received a call for participation in the Frontiers Research Topic on Burst coding (see below). Due to FENS and the summer vacations, several authors asked us to extend the deadline. Therefore, the deadline for articles is now extended to: October 1st 2016. With kind regards, Fleur Zeldenrust Bernhard Englitz Wytse Wadman ________________________________ Dear colleagues, This is a call for participation in a Frontiers Research Topic titled "Burst coding: from cell to cognition” (for a description, see below). We, the editors, would highly value your participation. If you would like to contribute, please follow the following link: http://journal.frontiersin.org/researchtopic/4374/burst-coding-from-cell-to… Abstract deadline: 1 February 2016 Manuscript deadline: 30 June 2016 Please note that reviews at Frontiers allow and encourage a discussion between the authors and the reviewers. As editors we would like to further encourage you to use this opportunity, while guaranteeing from our side that a constructive discussion with the reviewers will have a positive influence on the evaluation of your work. Let us know if you have any questions about the Research Topic. We look forward to hearing from you soon. With kind regards, Fleur Zeldenrust Bernhard Englitz Wytse J. Wadman Guest Associate Editors, Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience BURST CODING: FROM CELL TO COGNITION Bursting is a firing mode of neurons in which they respond to and input with a group of high frequency action potentials, followed by a period of relative silence. These bursts can be generated intrinsically in neurons themselves, or they can be the result of network activity. Many different systems show a burst-firing mode next to a tonic-firing mode. Despite the ubiquity of bursting, the question of the functional properties of bursts remains unknown: why do some systems rely on bursts for their information transmission and what do bursts code for? We encourage authors to contribute their expertise, both from experimental and from computational backgrounds, on this question on the fundamental properties of burst coding. Papers should address one or more of the following issues: 1. Burst generation. How can different systems generate bursts? This includes both the single neuron level (active dendritic calcium, sodium dynamics, ‘ping-pong’ mechanisms) and the network level (synchronization, inhibition). 2. Differences between systems. In what brain areas of what animals do bursts occur (region CA3 of the rodent hippocampus, mammalian thalamus, weakly electric fish, insect auditory receptors), and what are the similarities/differences in the properties of these systems? 3. Detection and analysis of bursts. The detection of bursts is mostly done using inter-spike interval distributions or return maps; these give a typical inter-spike interval. Often, inter-spike intervals and spike amplitudes change over the course of a burst, making the last spikes in a burst hard to detect. This makes the analysis of burst challenging. Moreover, many traditional tools for the analysis of spike trains cannot be used to analyse spike trains that include bursts without some form of correction for it (reverse correlation techniques, Spike Coincidence Factor). 4. Information processing (burst coding). What are the functional information processing effects of bursts? These include decoding (resonance coding or inter-spike interval coding, burst duration coding), encoding (what stimulus features trigger bursts?), and other coding properties (reliability at unreliable synapses, feature detection for bursts versus stimulus estimation for single spikes, ‘wake-up call’ function of bursts). 5. Relation between bursts and pathology. The burst-firing mode of the thalamus has been associated with sleep and anaesthesia, and therefore with pathological conditions, before evidence showed that bursts also occur in awake states. Bursting in the subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus is associated with Parkinson’s disease; high-frequency cortical oscillations are thought to be a hallmark of epilepsy, but their origins have been disputed. Are there more relations between the burst-firing mode and pathological conditions? 6. Relation between bursts and behaviour. Bursts of complex spike cells play an important functional role in hippocampal place cells. In the oculomotor system bursts play an important role in generating saccades. In weakly electric fish, bursts are a response to ‘communication-like’ stimuli, but not to ‘prey-like’ stimuli. Thalamic bursts have a much stronger effect on their cortical targets than single spikes. These results suggest that bursts can have a different signalling function then single spikes, often associated with different behaviour. ABOUT FRONTIERS RESEARCH TOPICS Founded by scientists in 2007, Frontiers is a community-rooted open-access publisher, driving innovations in peer review, article-level metrics and research networking. The "Frontiers in" journal series hosts 54 journals covering more than 350 academic specialties, with a network of over 200,000 leading researchers worldwide. Frontiers is a registered member of the Open Access Scholarly Publishers Association (http://www.oaspa.org/member/Frontiers) and was recognized by the ALPSP Award for Innovation in Publishing in 2014. The idea behind a Frontiers Research Topic is to create a comprehensive collection of peer-reviewed articles that address a specific theme of research, as well as a forum for discussion and debate. Contributions can be articles describing original research, methods, hypothesis & theory, opinions, and more. Please see the relevant journal for a full list of accepted article types. Frontiers will also compile an e-book, as soon as all contributing articles are published, that can be used as educational material, be sent to foundations that fund your research, to journalists and press agencies, or to your professional network. E-books are free to read and download. Once published, your articles will be free to access for all readers, indexed in relevant repositories, and as an author in Frontiers, you retain the copyright to your own papers and figures. FRONTIERS PUBLISHING FEES Manuscripts accepted for publication are subject to publishing fees, which vary depending on the article type. All Research Topic manuscripts receive a discount on publishing fees; please see here for a full fee table, and further relevant FAQs: http://www.frontiersin.org/about/PublishingFees. http://www.frontiersin.org/Mail/IbarMail.aspx?op=4&msgid=10350094&msg=In

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PhD position at HU Berlin available
by Benjamin Lindner June 27, 2016

June 27, 2016

We are looking for a PhD candidate in Computational Neuroscience with a strong background in theoretical physics, specifically in stochastic processes, to work on effective descriptions of temporal and spatial correlations in recurrent networks of spiking neurons. Funding is provided for three years, starting October 2016, through the international research training group IRTG 1740 "Dynamical Phenomena in Complex Networks: Fundamentals and Applications". Part of this program is a (minimum six month) stay in the lab of our collaborator in Brazil, Prof. Roque (FFCLRP, Universidade de Sao Paulo). For details on the doctoral examination process at the Physics Department of Humboldt University Berlin, see https://fakultaeten.hu-berlin.de/en/mnf/wisskar/promotionen/index_html?set_…. Please, send your application until July 31, 2016 to Nikola Schrenk (nikola.schrenk(a)bccn-berlin.de) and to me (benjamin.lindner(a)physik.hu-berlin.de) -- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Benjamin Lindner Theory of Complex Systems and Neurophysics Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin Philippstr. 13, Haus 2, 10115 Berlin Room: 1.17, phone: 0049(0)302093 6336 Department of Physics Humboldt University Berlin Newtonstr. 15 12489 Berlin Room: 3.408, phone: 0049(0)302093 7934 http://people.physik.hu-berlin.de/~lindner/index.html --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Postdoc position in cognitive and neural modeling (Angela Yu)
by Angela J. Yu June 27, 2016

June 27, 2016

Applications are invited from highly motivated researchers for a postdoctoral position immediately available in the Computational & Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, led by Angela Yu, at University of California, San Diego. Initial appointment is one-two years, with flexible start date and opportunity for renewal. Anticipated research direction is rather flexible, generally involving developing a decision-theoretical framework for the inter-related problems of perceptual decision-making, active sensing, active learning, interactions between affective and cognitive processing, and social cognition. Candidates must have a strong mathematical and modeling background in Bayesian statistics, Markov decision process, and general machine learning methods. Experience with measure-theoretic probability theory, stochastic processes, stochastic control theory (stopping problems, bandit problems, sequential decision problems), and/or dynamical systems analysis is also desirable. Applicants should be committed to applying rigorous mathematical tools to modeling cognitive and neural processes. Experience or interest in carrying out human behavioral experiments (either in person or on Amazon M-Turk) and/or collaborating with other human/animal neuroscience laboratories is also desirable. Dr. Yu's lab is situated within the Cognitive Science department of UCSD, and affiliated with the Computer Science Department, Neurosciences Graduate Program, and the Institute of Neural Computation. There are ample opportunities for collaborations with related groups across the UCSD main campus, the medical school, and the Salk Institute. Interested candidates should send a research statement, along with a CV including publications, to Dr. Angela Yu (ajyu(a)ucsd.edu <mailto:ajyu@ucsd.edu>). Two or more letters of references should be sent directly to the same address. ------------------------------------- Angela J. Yu Associate Professor UCSD Cognitive Science www.cogsci.ucsd.edu/~ajyu -------------------------------------

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PhD position in Deep Neural Learning for Computer Vision - Naples, Italy
by Alfredo Petrosino June 25, 2016

June 25, 2016

A fully funded 3-year PhD position is available at CVPRLab (cvprlab.uniparthenope.it) of the department of Science and Technology at the University of Naples Parthenope, Italy, on topics related to neural and machine learning and scene understanding. The aim is to work about new models of deep neural architectures with biological plausability capable of human-like learning, including learning from scratch and spatio temporal analysis. Applications include autonomous systems, active vision, and elderly assisted living, also through mobile devices and jointly with highly specialised industries. Eligibility requirements include: - Master of Science degree with academic excellence, i.e. normally an Honours Degree; - Strong experience in machine learning and basics of computer vision, as well as good mathematical and programming skills (either C/C++ or MATLAB). The net salary is nearly 1.300,00 euros per month. For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see Advert link: http://www.unimi.it/cataloghi/dottorati_borse_premi/Bando_DOTTORATI_XXXII_c… Forms link: http://www.unimi.it/cataloghi/dottorati_borse_premi/Allegati%20bando%20gene… The deadline for applications is 1pm, 6 July 2016. Further information are given by sending an email to petrosino(a)uniparthenope.it Alfredo Petrosino, University of Naples Parthenope ****************************************************************************** IL MERITO DEGLI STUDENTI VIENE RICONOSCIUTO Il 5 per mille all'Universita' degli Studi di Napoli "Parthenope" incrementa le borse di studio agli studenti - codice fiscale 80018240632 http://www.uniparthenope.it/index.php/it/5-per-mille Questa informativa e' inserita in automatico dal sistema al fine esclusivo della realizzazione dei fini istituzionali dell'ente.

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Computational Neuroscience Postdoctoral Positions at Sandia National Laboratories
by Chance, Frances S. June 24, 2016

June 24, 2016

(Apologies in advance for any cross-posting) Colleagues, We are seeking computational neuroscientists to join an interdisciplinary research program focused on understanding neural computation at the circuit level. Example research topics of interest include computational models of retina, visual cortex (or the neural circuitry underlying perception), and the hippocampus. Candidates should have a strong background in neuroscience, and an interest in understanding of relations between neuroscience, cognitive science, and computation. Our department is part of a highly interdisciplinary community of researchers with interests spanning systems neuroscience and brain-inspired computing, engineering, and computer science. Successful applicants will be expected to conduct high-quality research, maintain a successful publication record in peer-reviewed journals, and develop collaborations with this vibrant and growing community. This position is located at Sandia's Albuquerque, NM, USA site. Required 1. A Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related field. 2. Experience with neuroscience research methods and data analysis. 3. Strong publication record. 4. Excellent interpersonal, communication and writing skills. 5. Demonstrated ability to contribute to multidisciplinary teams. 6. Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy security clearance. Desired At least some of the following qualifications are preferred: 1. Demonstrated abilities in mathematical and computational modeling of neural or cognitive function. 2. Previous research experience in a sensory system. 3. Experience with biologically-inspired machine learning algorithms. 4. Experience developing in at least one C-derived programming language (C, C++, C#, Java, etc.), or with a neural simulator (NEURON, PyNN, NEST, etc). 5. Laboratory experience in any of: electrophysiology, neural imaging, connectomics, pharmacological manipulations combined with measurement of neural activity. Submissions: Apply online at http://www.sandia.gov/careers/index.html - select "View All Jobs", and search for 653748 in the keywords box. Please include a letter of interest and a curriculum vitae. For questions or information, please contact Frances Chance (fschanc(a)sandia.gov<mailto:fschanc@sandia.gov>) or Brad Aimone (jbaimon(a)sandia.gov) Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but to ensure full consideration please submit by August 31, 2016. Sandia National Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

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[jobs] Post-Doc in Developmental Robotics - Short Deadline
by Patricia Hazel Shaw [phs] June 24, 2016

June 24, 2016

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Fixed Term until 31 March 2018) Institute of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science Grade 7 - £32,600 - £37,768 Closing Date: 30th June 2016 Interview Date: 4th July 2016 Applicants are invited to join the Robotics Laboratory for a project (entitled “Developmental Algorithms for Robotics”). The project is focusing on developmental robotic learning based on an iCub humanoid robot. This is a three year EPSRC funded project running at Aberystwyth University started March 2015, with the support of an International Scientific Advisory Board consisting of leading developmental psychologists. We wish to appoint a Post-Doctoral Research Associate who will develop models based on the psychological literature, and conduct experiments on our iCub humanoid robot. The successful candidate will have appropriate modelling skills and experience, and proven abilities in this area. Other tasks include writing scientific documents and papers, documenting experiments and writing reports, supervising a PhD student and collaborating with other researchers. Regular European travel will be involved. The project ends March 2018, with the fixed-term contract running to this date. For informal enquiries contact Patricia Shaw: phs(a)aber.ac.uk<mailto:phs@aber.ac.uk> +44 (0)1970 622432. For the full job description, please visit: https://jobs.aber.ac.uk/en/vacancy/post-doctoral-research-associate-develop… -------------------------------------------------------------------- Astudio gyda ni yn Aberystwyth - Prifysgol Gyntaf Cymru https://www.aber.ac.uk/cy/undergrad/ Study at Aberystwyth – Wales’ First University https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/undergrad/

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Postdoctoral Position at Yale Neuroscience
by McCormick, David June 22, 2016

June 22, 2016

An outstanding, highly-motivated post-doctoral fellow is sought to participate in studies on the cellular/network mechanisms of optimal state for performance. Candidates experienced in either computational, imaging/optogenetic, or electrophysiological methodologies are sought. We are investigating the mechanisms by which the optimal state for detection and discrimination performance is achieved in mouse neocortex. Mice are trained to perform visual and auditory detection/recognition/discrimination tasks. Through state-of-the-art techniques, such as two-photon monitoring of activity in known neuromodulatory axons in the cortex, whole cell recording of synaptic activity, high density array recordings of cortical unit activity, and optogenetic manipulation of specific transmitter systems, we are able to determine and decipher the role of different transmitter systems and neural pathways that rapidly control neuronal responsiveness. We have recently shown that the waking state varies on a continual basis and that these fluctuations account for a large component of response and behavioral variance. We take a circuit-based approach to systems neuroscience, revealing how the nervous system achieves a goal through the synaptic interaction of cells in local and long range circuits, modulated by neurotransmitters, to generate flexible behavior. Support: Postdoctoral fellows are well supported with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to their experiments. Salary (45-65K) is competitive and commensurate with experience and contribution. Lab website: www.mccormicklab.org<http://www.mccormicklab.org/> Please contact david.mccormick(a)yale.edu<mailto:david.mccormick@yale.edu> with inquiries and applications. Send statement of interest, CV, and the names of three people for letters of recommendation. Positions available Fall, 2016. David A. McCormick Professor, Neuroscience | Yale University School of Medicine Dept. Neuroscience 333 Cedar Street | New Haven, CT 06510 | 203.785.5981 www.mccormicklab.org<http://www.mccormicklab.org/> | www.neurobiology.org<http://www.neurobiology.org/>

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Summer school on neural and sensorimotor foundations of social interaction (BCBT/socSMCs)
by Alexander Maye June 21, 2016

June 21, 2016

---------------------------------------------------------- CALL FOR PARTICIPATION ---------------------------------------------------------- Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology Summer School (BCBT2016) University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. 5-16 September 2016 http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16 Join us for the annual "Barcelona Cognition, Brain and Technology summer school - BCBT2016 " (see http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/home) to be held 5-16 September 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. The BCBT summer school is positioned at the interface between biology and future and emerging technologies with an emphasis on the principles underlying brains and their translation to avant-garde technologies. BCBT promotes a shared systems-level understanding of the functional architecture of the brain and its possible emulation in artificial systems. The summer school has been part of a series of events organized by the European coordination action Convergent Science Network of Biomimetics and Neurotechnology (http://csnetwork.eu/) This year the school will be supported by the EU project socSMCs (Socializing Sensorimotor Contingencies) - A FET Proactive Horizon 2020 funded research project. (http://socsmcs.eu/) This is the 9th year of BCBT, which has run with great success in previous years thanks to an excellent line-up of outstanding speakers (see bcbt.upf.edu for previous editions of the school). BCBT lectures are available online (see http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/media) with the BCBT Podcast interviews with many of the BCBT speakers. BCBT caters to students and researchers involved in projects that are in the ambit of “BIO-ICT convergence”, "Brain Inspired ICT", “Cognitive systems- robotics”, “Cognitive and neural systems”, “Foundations of social cognition”. BCBT will offer up to 30 student slots for the practical workshops, while as many researchers can register to attend the presentations and discussion sessions as they are interested. The atmosphere of the BCBT summer school is informal with the goal to stimulate in-depth discussion. There are 1 or 2 presentations in the morning, with the afternoons reserved for tutorials and projects for student participants and road-mapping workshops or further discussion for senior scientists. For the 2016 edition we plan a 1st week of the school addressing Neural basis of social interaction while the 2nd week will include presentations aimed at the investigation of Socializing Sensorimotor Contingencies. Friday 16 is reserved for the presentation of the student projects to which everybody is invited. Application deadline: July 27th, 2016 For more information on how to apply, please go to http://bcbt.upf.edu/bcbt16/ participate BCBT is organized by Paul Verschure (BCBT Chair), ICREA and University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES Andreas K. Engel (BCBT Co-Chair) University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), DE Anna Mura (BCBT Co-Chair), University Pompeu Fabra Barcelona, ES -- _____________________________________________________________________ Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf; Körperschaft des öffentlichen Rechts; Gerichtsstand: Hamburg | www.uke.de Vorstandsmitglieder: Prof. Dr. Burkhard Göke (Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Dr. Uwe Koch-Gromus, Joachim Prölß, Rainer Schoppik _____________________________________________________________________ SAVE PAPER - THINK BEFORE PRINTING

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Postdoc Position Available in the Kanan lab at the Rochester Institute of Technology
by Christopher Kanan June 21, 2016

June 21, 2016

Topic: Machine learning and deep learning for detecting manipulated images One postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Christopher Kanan at the Rochester Institute of Technology, in Rochester, NY (USA). The lab specializes in applying machine learning algorithms to solve problems in computer vision and related fields. The candidate will be responsible for developing new algorithms for the detecting manipulated and tampered images. Requirements: Ph.D. in computer science or related field; A research record in computer vision and/or machine learning; Familiarity with deep learning The position is initially for one year, but is renewable upon strong performance for an additional year. The salary is significantly above the typical postdoctoral market rate. Applications should be sent by email to ( christopher.kanan(a)rit.edu) and should include a CV, the expected data of availability, and contact information for 3 references. The starting date is September 2016. I will be available to do interviews during CVPR-2016. -- Christopher Kanan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Carlson Center for Imaging Science Rochester Institute of Technology Office 3140, Building #76 http://klab.cis.rit.edu/ http://www.chriskanan.com

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PhD and PostDoc Position at Düsseldorf
by Esther Florin June 20, 2016

June 20, 2016

Please note that the deadline is on the 27th of June. An earlier message was not delivered. Post-Doc and PhD position at the Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf Both positions are in the context of the project “Spontaneous brain activity in healthy subjects and Parkinson's disease”, funded by the Volkswagen foundation. The project aims at providing a characterization of the neurophysiological basis of the brain’s resting state networks (RSNs) by determining how communication between and within RSNs is mediated, using electro-/magnetoencephaolographic (E/MEG) data from healthy participants. In the second part of the project the characterization of RSN electrophysiology will be used to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease. A particular focus will be on tracing out the electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of dopamine treatment and deep brain stimulation. The jobs involve research design, data collection, data analysis, methods developments/implementation, presenting at conferences, and participating in the writing up of the results. The PostDoc is also expected to assist in the supervision and training of junior lab members. Preferable candidates will have a strong background in physics, neuroscience, electrophysiology, biology, computer science or related fields. Knowledge of MEG/EEG biophysics, data acquisition and analysis, biostatistics, and signal processing or the willingness and capability to quickly acquire this knowledge are essential. Qualities we are looking for: · Good scientific programming and data processing skills · Familiarity with Matlab and LaTeX · Solid knowledge of descriptive and inductive statistics and time series analysis · Previous exposure to M/EEG source estimation, Brainstorm, and fMRI resting state analysis are considered a plus · Strong motivation to carry out neuroimaging studies utilizing MEG and to perform source and connectivity analysis · Knowledge of neuroscience concepts · Good interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in the interaction with subjects and patients (beneficial: knowledge of German) · Excellent skills in written and spoken English; · Proven track record of academic excellence What we offer: The group is part of the Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology at Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, located in the capital of Germany’s biggest state. The institute hosts a state-of-the-art 306 channel MEG-system and a 128 channel EEG system as well as a 3T MRI. The Heinrich-Heine University (HHU) is part of the Neuroscience Network Düsseldorf, a collaborative effort jointly with the Research Centre Jülich and the IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine Düsseldorf. A particular focus of this network is the investigation of disease-associated pathomechanisms such as the one of Parkinson's disease. At the HHU Düsseldorf the graduate school iBrain has been established and enables graduate students to obtain further formal qualifications in neuroscience. Terms and conditions for this position: Both positions are available from 1st of July 2016 or until filled. The initial appointment is for 2-3 years (postdoc) or 3 years (PhD student). Salary for the PostDoc will be according to E13/TV-L and for the PhD up to 0.65 E13/TV-L. Health insurance is included. The contract will be affiliated with Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf. Female candidates are encouraged to apply; they will be given preference in cases of equal aptitude, ability, and professional achievements unless there are exceptional reasons for choosing another applicant. Applications from suitably qualified severely disabled persons or disabled persons regarded as being of equal status according to Book IX of the German Social Legal Code (SGB – Soziales Gesetzbuch) are encouraged to apply. Disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration in the case of equal aptitude. More information about this vacancy? Please contact Esther Florin: esther.florin(a)med.uni-duesseldorf.de<redir.aspx?REF=n0heCJN2SIPp5bF7BPLNIgtomqUCHYIGBBx5vHNmbFYEOMc_OJnTCAFtYWlsdG86ZXN0aGVyLmZsb3JpbkBtZWQudW5pLWR1ZXNzZWxkb3JmLmRl> Are you interested? Please send your application within 3 weeks to: Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf D 01.2.1 – Kennziffer: 149E/16, Moorenstr. 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf It should include the following documents: · short (one page) application letter · your CV, incl. a list of publications and the names and contact details of two scientists who can provide references · writing sample · one-page summary of your research For administrative reasons, we cannot return applications. In submitting your application, you give your consent to the retention of the application documents by the university hospital Düsseldorf. _______________________________________________ Dr. Esther Florin Lichtenberg Assistant Professor for Systems Neuroscience Institute for Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf Tel: +49-(0)211-81-08439 esther.florin(a)med.uni-duesseldorf.de<redir.aspx?REF=n0heCJN2SIPp5bF7BPLNIgtomqUCHYIGBBx5vHNmbFYEOMc_OJnTCAFtYWlsdG86ZXN0aGVyLmZsb3JpbkBtZWQudW5pLWR1ZXNzZWxkb3JmLmRl>

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Postdoctoral Fellowship in multiscale modeling methods for neuroscience simulation
by McDougal, Robert June 17, 2016

June 17, 2016

Multiscale Modeling Postdoctoral Fellowship available for combining cell biology (reaction-diffusion) and electrophysiology in the NEURON simulator (neuron.yale.edu<http://neuron.yale.edu>). The position involves an unusual mix of software engineering and science, depending on the candidate's background and interests. Mathematically, interesting challenges arise in coupling 1D and 3D simulations and coupling deterministic with stochastic simulation. Biologically, dendrites and spines produce complex morphologies with much possibility for spatial variation in concentration. At the network level, the molecular scale interacts in unexpected ways with cellular and network dynamics. Although the work is technical and focused on software development, paper writing is expected with opportunity for both methods papers and biological papers, typically in collaboration with experimental labs. The postdoc will receive training in a wide range of interdisciplinary skills from computer science, applied math, biophysics, cell biology, electrophysiology, etc. The work is being performed in close collaboration with experimental laboratories, giving the opportunity to immediately determine how closely a modeling technique can match the experimental reality (or how experimental artifact can be reduced so as to match a model). Candidates should have a strong background in computer programming, with demonstrated proficiency in C/C++, Python, or some other major language. Familiarity with any or all of threading, MPI, SBML, or user interface design is a strong plus. Strong interest, though not necessarily research experience, in cell biology and/or neuroscience is a must. Some experience with NEURON is desirable. We are part of the team that develops and disseminates the NEURON multiscale modeling (MSM) environment, used by thousands of researchers over decades (now in year 40). As with most simulators, NEURON has historically emphasized neuronal network connectivity and cell membrane electrical dynamics. Recent advances in genomics and proteomics require that the scales of cell biology be added to the MSM mosaic. This extension is particularly important for understanding major problems in learning and memory (the genesis of long-term potentiation in the interaction of chemo- and electro-) and in understanding and developing treatments for brain disease. The work is being done as a collaboration between SUNY Downstate and Yale University under the auspices of a 5 year continuation of an ongoing grant from the National Institute of Mental Health. The NIH and other agencies (FDA, NASA, NSF, DARPA, others) are making a strong push to enhance multiscale modeling in biomedical engineering across organ systems, but particularly with respect to brain function and brain disease -- this is a major growth area in bioscience. Based on the candidate's background and preferences, job could be in Brooklyn, New Haven or via telecommuting. The labs maintain frequent communication via instant messaging (Slack) with software sharing via git and mercurial. Applicants should contact Bill Lytton or Robert McDougal by email (billl at neurosim.downstate.edu<http://neurosim.downstate.edu> robert.mcdougal at yale.edu<http://yale.edu>; no snail mail please) with a CV and cover letter describing your experience with any relevant technologies (Python, C/C++, MPI, NEURON, etc). SUNY is an equal opportunity employer.

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Biomag 2016 Brain Connectivity Analysis Competition
by Stefan Haufe June 17, 2016

June 17, 2016

Dear colleagues, we have just launched a data analysis competition on brain connectivity analysis using EEG and MEG. Detailed information on the challenge and the data to be analyzed can be found at http://bbci.de/supplementary/EEGconnectivity/BBCB.html . At this website, we also offer a basic Matlab-based software framework for generating EEG/MEG data in a realistic head model, plotting results, etc. You and your colleagues are warmly invited to participate in the challenge. Please feel free to pass on this link to anyone else who might be interested. Besides active participation we would also be very happy to just hear your general opinion on the design of the challenge, and about any suggestions for extension (in the future). Our challenge is on of three official data analysis competitions of this year's BIOMAG conference. The invitation to participate in all three challenges is pasted below for your convenience. With best wishes, Stefan Haufe and Arne Ewald -------- Forwarded Message -------- Subject: [megcommunity] Biomag 2016 Data Analysis Competition Date: Mon, 30 May 2016 16:56:31 +0200 From: Ole Jensen <ole.jensen(a)DONDERS.RU.NL> Reply-To: Ole Jensen <ole.jensen(a)DONDERS.RU.NL> To: MEGCOMMUNITY(a)JISCMAIL.AC.UK Dear all, We are happy to announce three challenges for the 'Data Analysis Competition' at Biomag 2016. Please see details at http://www.biomag2016.org/data_analysis_competition.php The aim of the competitions is to promote the development and application of new analysis techniques. The challenges will help to elucidate pros and cons of different techniques and attract experts from outside the MEG field. The winners of the competition will be given the opportunity to present their proposal at the Biomag meeting in Seoul (Oct 1-6) in order to spark discussions on analysis. Please encourage colleagues to participate! Best regards, Ole Jensen -- Prof. dr. Ole Jensen http://www.neuosc.com

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FW: 2nd Call for Papers: IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems
by Arindam Basu June 17, 2016

June 17, 2016

Dear all， You are invited to submit your work to IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems. The submission deadline has been extended to June 30, 2016. Thanks for your contributions! (And apologies for cross-posting if any) IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems Special Issue on Neuromorphic Computing and Cognitive Systems AIM AND SCOPE In recent years neuromorphic computing has become an important emerging research area. There has been rapid progress in computational theory, learning algorithms, signal processing and circuit design and implementation, which have shown appealing computational advantages over conventional solutions. The low size, weight, and power of these hardware architectures shows great potential for embedded cognitive systems. Starting from emulating the computational principles and architecture found in neural systems, neuromorphic computing aims to integrate sensory coding, synaptic computing (e.g., STDP), learning and memory, and attempts to develop neuromorphic sensors and chips, and cognitive behaving systems such as robots. Neuromorphic hardware has provided a fundamentally different technique for data representation and learning, e.g., asynchronous events rather than regularly sampled frames of images. Various hardware systems leveraging on neural spikes based computing have been reported to achieve good performance with much lower power consumption. Therefore, neuromorphic computing can inform cognitive systems because the algorithms that run on this hardware must be neurobiologically inspired. A huge potential exists for applying this emerging computing framework to the next generation of cognitive systems and robotics, neuro-inspired sensors and processors, etc. THEMES This special issue aims to report state-of-the-art approaches and recent advances on (a) learning algorithms constrained by limits of biology and neuromorphic hardware (b) neuromorphic hardware for cognitive systems and (c) applications of neuromorphic architecture or hardware to cognitive robotics. Topics relevant to this special issue include, but are not limited to • Neuromorphic cognitive systems • Cognitive robotics • Brain-inspired data representation models • STDP, Spike-based sensing and learning algorithms • Spike based processing and methods for configuring spike-based processors SUBMISSION Manuscripts should be prepared according to the “Information for Authors” of the journal found at http://cis.ieee.org/publications.html and submissions should be done through the IEEE TCDS Manuscript center: https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tcds-ieee <https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/tcds-ieee> and please select the category “SI: Neuromorphic Computing”. IMPORTANT DATES 15 June 2016-Extended to 30 June 2016: Deadline for manuscript submission 15 Sep 2016: Notification of authors 15 Oct 2016: Deadline for revised manuscripts 15 Nov 2016：Final version GUEST EDITORS Huajin Tang, Sichuan University, China. （htang(a)scu.edu.cn<mailto:htang@scu.edu.cn>） Tiejun Huang, Peking University, China. （tjhuang(a)pku.edu.cn<mailto:tjhuang@pku.edu.cn>） Garrick Orchard，National University of Singapore (garrickorchard(a)nus.edu.sg<mailto:garrickorchard@nus.edu.sg>） Arindam Basu，Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (arindam.basu(a)ntu.edu.sg<mailto:arindam.basu@ntu.edu.sg>） Jeffrey L. Krichmar，University of California, Irvine, US （jkrichma(a)uci.edu<mailto:jkrichma@uci.edu>） Best regards, Arindam ________________________________ 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.

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Fwd: Faculty Position in Neural Data and Imaging Sciences, Sabanci Univ., Istanbul
by Mujdat Cetin June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

*Faculty Position in Neural Data and Imaging Sciences at Sabancı University* http://ee.sabanciuniv.edu/en/full-time-faculty-position-neural-data-and-ima… The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (FENS) at Sabancı University, İstanbul, Turkey invites applications for a full-time faculty position in the area of Neural Data and Imaging Sciences with a targeted start date of Fall 2016. The ideal candidate for this position would have a Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, computational neuroscience, or a related field, as well as a strong research and publication record in the area of information extraction from challenging neural data. Particular research areas of interest include but are not limited to neuroinformatics, big neural sensor data analytics, biomedical imaging, brain informatics, signal processing of neural activity, computational neuroimaging, neural image analysis, machine learning for understanding the brain, and connectomics. Sensing/imaging modalities of interest include but are not necessarily limited to MRI, fMRI, DTI, PET, EEG, MEG, ECoG, and several forms of microscopy. Application areas of interest include, but are not limited to healthcare, neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, neurorehabilitation, and neurorobotics. The faculty member will have a primary affiliation with the Electronics Engineering program but will be expected to conduct collaborative research with other programs in FENS as well. Applications from candidates at all ranks are encouraged. For candidates at the Assistant Professor level, post-doctoral research experience is a plus. Successful candidates are expected to develop externally-funded internationally-recognized research programs; teach undergraduate and graduate courses; advise and mentor graduate and undergraduate students; and undertake service responsibilities. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to benefit from the state-of-the-art infrastructure of the brand-new Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), as well as to be involved in the Professional Master’s Program in Data Analytics. Sabancı University, a privately funded premier academic institution, established in 1996 in its state-of-the-art campus located in suburban İstanbul. The university offers 13 undergraduate programs and 38 graduate programs in three faculties (Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Management). The University aims to establish a high standard of academic excellence and a research-oriented atmosphere for its international faculty and students, while nurturing productive relationships particularly with the industries in the region which constitute the industrial heartland of Turkey. The medium of instruction is English. In 2015, Sabancı University ranked 13th globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of the top 100 universities under 50 years old, and 21st in the THE Asia university rankings. In the recently announced THE ranking of the world’s best small universities in 2016, Sabancı University ranked 10th globally. It ranked first among all universities in Turkey in the University Entrepreneurship and Innovation Index of the Ministry of Science, Industry, and Technology in 2015. Detailed information about the Electronics Engineering Program at Sabancı University can be found at http://ee.sabanciuniv.edu/ Applicants should submit their applications online through https://crm.sabanciuniv.edu/acadcv/application.php and provide a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, statement of teaching interests, and at least three professional references. Review of applications will begin on July 1, 2016 and will continue until the position is filled. -- Mujdat Cetin Technical Program Co-chair, IVMSP 2016 -- http://ivmsp2016.org Technical Co-chair, FUSION 2016 -- http://fusion2016.org Faculty Member Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Sabanci University Orhanli, Tuzla 34956, Istanbul, Turkey Phone : +90 (216) 483-9594 Fax : +90 (216) 483-9550 E-mail : mcetin(a)sabanciuniv.edu Web : http://spis.sabanciuniv.edu

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Scientist II opening in Computational Neuroscience at the Allen Institute for Brain Science (Seattle, USA)
by Costas Anastassiou June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

Scientist II opening in Computational Neuroscience Lab headed by Dr. Costas Anastassiou Allen Institute of Brain Science Do you want to make a difference in our understanding of brain disorders? Do you have a solid background in computational neuroscience/scientific computing/simulation-based research and curious about how the brain works? Are you able to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment? The laboratory headed by Dr. Costas Anastassiou at the Allen Institute is currently looking for a talented Scientist II to work on large-scale, biophysically detailed brain circuit simulations to explore the pathophysiology of epilepsy. 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 to fill a position at the level of Scientist II (SciII) to work on an exciting new translational neuroscience pilot project at the Institute. The goal of this project is to investigate cellular and circuit mechanisms of epileptogenesis in human hippocampus. To address these questions, we seek to develop a faithful computational model of the human epileptogenetic hippocampus consisting of a multitude of reconstructed, interconnected and biophysically faithful neurons emulating anatomical and dynamical characteristics of the pathological brain tissue. For examples of biophysically realistic network models as pursued in this work see [Schomburg, Anastassiou et al, J Neurosci, 2012; Reimann, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2013; Taxidis, Anastassiou et al, Neuron, 2015]. The aim of the computational model is to (i) understand how synaptic, cellular and connectivity properties of pathological brain tissue give rise to pathophysiological network dynamics, (ii) understand how pathophysiological dynamics are reflected on signals such as depth-, ECoG- and EEG-recordings, and (iii) identify intervention targets to abort or suppress pathological activity. Importantly, the computational effort will occur in parallel with novel in vitro experiments in brain slices derived from patients undergoing surgery for treatment refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy that will provide the data on which the computational modeling will be based. The project will be pursued in collaboration with in-house experimental colleagues as well as neurologists and neurosurgeons and has a guaranteed duration initially of 18 months beginning in the summer of 2016. Responsibilities: · Construct detailed biophysical models using cable theory and NEURON-software. · Design, implement and analyze large-scale network simulations. · Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences. · Prepare written and oral reports on a regular basis. · Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and relevant conferences. · Maintain clear and accurate communication with supervisor and team members. Qualifications: · PhD degree in computational neuroscience, physics, biology, bioengineering or related fields. · Strong background in scientific computing; experience in computational neuroscience is preferred, but other strong applicants will be considered (with background in computational physics, biophysics, and related disciplines). Experience with parallel computing is a plus as well as familiarity with high-level programming languages such as python. · 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. · Familiarity with in vitro and in vivoelectrophysiological monitoring techniques and data analyses. · Strong written and verbal communication skills. How to apply: Visit the Allen Institute for Brain Science Careers website and fill out your information for the Scientist II-position under “2200-Modeling, Analysis and Theory”.

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Programmer wanted for Neuroscience and Neuroprosthetics Lab
by Sliman Bensmaia June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

Lab at the cutting edge of neuroscience and neurotechnology looking for a programmer to keep us at the cutting edge! The lab has two general pursuits: discover the neural basis of touch and proprioception – how do patterns of activation in the nerve and in the brain mediate our ability to feel objects by touch and sense the position and movements of our limbs in space? – and to develop a somatosensory neuroprosthesis – How can we recreate the sense of touch by stimulating the nerve or the brain. See http://bensmaialab.org for additional information regarding the lab and the exciting work we are doing. Ideally, looking for a motivated, intelligent individual who works well with people, someone who might be able to make a long term commitment to the lab and help us build something special. Job Summary Responsible for interfacing the various machines in the lab (robots, sensors, data acquisition systems, etc.) with computers and with each other to run neurophysiological and behavioral experiments with human and non-human primates. Education Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field of engineering required. Experience One year of relevant programming experience required. Experience developing, implementing, debugging and maintaining applications required. Two years of professional programming experience preferred. Experience developing applications using C++, Matlab, Python, Java, MySQL, Visual Basic, and/or any other object oriented programming language preferred. Experience building and debugging electronic systems preferred but not required. Knowledge of electromechanical systems preferred but not required. Interest in and/or knowledge of neurophysiology preferred but not required. -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203 -- Sliman Bensmaia Associate Professor Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago 773.834.5203

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Postdoctoral positions available in Dr. Suzanne Haber's lab
by Sarah Heilbronner June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

2 Postdoctoral positions are available in Dr. Suzanne Haber’s lab at the University of Rochester. The studies use nonhuman primate anatomical connectivity studies in combination with MRI in nonhuman and human primates to investigate: 1. Reward pathways and their interface with cognitive and motor control circuits; and 2. Circuitry underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The first project is designed to delineate connectional hubs within cortex and basal ganglia structures that receive convergent inputs from reward and cognitive control regions. Specific focus is on dorsolateral, ventrolateral, ventromedial, orbital, and anterior cingulate cortices and the striatum and amygdala. The approach is to use traditional anatomical tract-tracing circuitry techniques in combination with state of the art imaging methods such as diffusion and functional MRI to explore the location of these hubs in both animal and human brains and their relationship to disease. The second project is designed to characterize the organizational principles that govern white matter organization and trajectories connecting frontal areas with particular emphasis on the connectional hubs. These data will form the basis for segmenting white matter with respect to function in order to identify and evaluate diffusion MRI changes associated with OCD and its treatments. These studies are part of a Silvio O. Conte Center grant involving several Institutions and multiple techniques investigating the neurocircuitry of OCD and effects of neurostimulation. The ideal applicants would have background in systems neuroscience and/or neuroimaging. These positions will give opportunities to interact with pioneering scientists through the Conte Center grant and will provide unique training at the forefront of anatomy, neuroimaging, and translational neuroscience. Applicants should submit a summary of research interests, a curriculum vitae and names of three references to: Dr. Suzanne Haber, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology: Email: Suzanne_Haber(a)URMC.Rochester.edu. (AA/EOE).

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Extended Deadline for Goettingen's Advanced Computational Neuroscience Summer School
by Agostina Palmigiano June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Extended deadline for applications for the Advanced COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE Summer School in Göttingen, Germany September 06th - 16th, 2016 DEADLINE *June 24, 2016* %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% The aCNS School is a 10-day intensive course in mathematical and computational neuroscience. It offers students working in computational neuroscience and already familiar with its interdisciplinary nature, an intensive pedagogy of advanced mathematical and computational tools, designed to qualify young researchers to push the frontiers of the field. The course counts with and introductory day + 4 two-day theoretical blocks + 4 evening lectures in charge of the following researchers: * Vijay Balasubramanian <http://www.sas.upenn.edu/%7Evbalasub/public-html/Home.html>, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA * Jason Kerr <http://www.caesar.de/bbo.html>, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Bonn, Germany * Gilles Laurent <http://brain.mpg.de/research/laurent-department.html>, MPI for Brain research, Frankfurt, Germany * Tobias Moser <http://www.innerearlab.uni-goettingen.de/>, University Medical Center, Göttingen Germany * Erwin Neher <http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/1991/neher-bio.ht…>, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany * Magnus Richardson <https://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/systemsbiology/staff/richardson/>, University of Warwick, Conventry, England * Wolf Singer <http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/research/singer-lab/>, Ernst Strüngmann Institute for Neuroscience, Frankfurt, Germany * Misha Tsodyks <http://www.weizmann.ac.il/neurobiology/labs/tsodyks/>, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel The consecutive two day thematic blocks are dedicated to mathematical approaches to circuit dynamics. Each lecturer will give a self-contained introduction to a particular set of theoretical tools in a block of two morning lectures. In the afternoon, participants will work on problem sets designed to develop proficiency in both the mathematical and computational tools learned earlier that day. An additional set of evening ‘easy’ lectures will give the opportunity to discuss significant advances in the field. The course takes place at the Department of Nonlinear Dynamics of the Max-Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen. Registration fee is 200 euros. Course language is English. Housing is provided by the school. Travel grants can be provided upon request. Only 15 participants will accepted. We invite applicants to apply by filling out the application form at: http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/events/cns-course <http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/events/cns-course> by *June 24, 2016*. Organizers: Rainer Engelken, Joscha Liedtke, Agostina Palmigiano, Manuel Schottdorf, Jens Wilting Best wishes and looking forward to seeing you in Göttingen, Agostina Palmigiano ___________________________ Agostina Palmigiano Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization Am Fassber 17, 37077 Goettingen +49 551 5176 421 office +49 163 882 6689 mobile http://www.nld.ds.mpg.de/ <http://www.nld.ds.mpg.de/> ___________________________

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Postdoctoral Position in Computational Neuroscience at Georgia State University
by Yaroslav Molkov June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

A postdoctoral/research associate position in computational neuroscience for the initial duration of one year is immediately available in the externally funded project focusing on multi-scale computational modeling of motor control mechanisms, involving interactions between basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum, cortex, and spinal cord in connection with realistic simulation of pathological changes in motor control during Huntington’s disease. This collaborative project is performed jointly by the groups of Drs. Ilya Rybak (Dept. of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA) and Yaroslav Molkov (Dept. of Mathematics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA). Applicants must have a PhD degree in Neuroscience, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline, a strong research record, and excellent C++ programming skills. Previous experience in computational neuronal modeling is a plus. Georgia State University is an urban public research university. Georgia State students and employees can take advantage of the university’s easy access to Atlanta’s rich creative environment, diversity of cultures and lifestyles, and wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. The world’s busiest airport is just minutes from campus. Atlanta provides Georgia State’s faculty and students with an urban laboratory, enabling them to draw creative inspiration. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Molkov (ymolkov(a)gsu.edu) by email. To apply, please send an email along with (1) curriculum vitae; (2) a cover letter describing previous research experience and interests; (3) the names and contact information of three references. Dr. Molkov will be available to answer questions about this position during Organization for Computational Neuroscience Annual meeting, July 2-7, 2016, Jeju, Korea. ================================= Yaroslav Molkov, Ph.D. Associate Professor Georgia State University Department of Mathematics and Statistics 30 Pryor St SW, 750-COE, Atlanta, GA 30303 Office: 722-COE Phone/fax: (404) 413-6422 Email: ymolkov(a)gsu.edu

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Final Call for Papers: Extracellular Space
by Reinoud Maex June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE NEUROSCIENCE http://www.worldscinet.com/jin Call for Papers! Special Issue on Extracellular Space In experimental neuroscience, most electric signals are picked up from the electrolytic (or colloidal) solution that constitutes extracellular (interneuronal) space, yet the origin of these potentials is incompletely understood. Even more, theoreticians have recently argued about the physical principles underlying these phenomena. The present special issue invites experimental and theoretical work that can shed light on electric phenomena in extracellular space, with an emphasis on extracellular potentials and endogenous electric field interactions. The contributions solicited are original research papers and comprehensive reviews on methodological aspects. Submission deadline: 30 September 2016 Contact: Dr. Reinoud Maex reinoud.maex(a)ens.fr Questions that may be addressed are (but are not limited to): 1. The nature of extracellular potentials - What is nature of the electric currents, and what is the velocity (distribution) of the ions involved? Since membrane currents underlie the extracellular currents, what are the relative contributions of synaptic versus voltage-gated channels, excitatory versus inhibitory synapses, capacitive currents? How important are Lorenz forces between currents (due to the generated magnetic fields) and is there a contribution of polarization currents? - Is extracellular space purely resistive, or is a capacitive component involved, and what factors (such as ionic concentration, Debye shielding, etc.) contribute to its resistivity? 2. Modeling of extracellular potentials and electric field interactions - What level of detail is needed to model extracellular electrical phenomena, and which formalism can be employed? How valid is the cable equation, or need slow concentration changes of the major ionic components involved be modeled explicitly? How can LFP calculations be incorporated in simulation software? - Can volume transmission be simulated adequately as volume conductors? Are ephaptic coupling effects adequately simulated in one dimension? 3. Neuronal inference from measured extracellular potentials - What is the importance of the electrode characteristics for the proper interpretation of the measured signals? - What are the underlying assumptions, and limitations, of current-source-density analysis? How valid is the dipole approximation? Why are recent experiments being interpreted in terms of monopoles, and can single-compartmental model neurons generate local field potentials at all? - What can be learned from the power density distribution of signal frequencies? 4. Neurostimulation - What is the effect on neurons of an externally applied current or potential, and what mechanism (or rationale) underlies deep brain stimulation? 5. Physiological roles of extracellular potentials and endogenous electrical fields - Do extracellular potentials contribute to neuron-neuron and neuron-glia communication? Can there be a role for extracellular potentials in the homeostasis, clearance, and volume regulation of extracellular space, and in the control of blood flow and of the blood-brain-barrier. - What is the integrative role of endogenous electrical fields in brain function?

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Papers on networks of neurons with nonlinear dendrites and Binary Synapses trained by structural plasticity
by Arindam Basu June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

Dear all Let me draw your attention to some work done by our group over the past few years in developing networks of neurons with lumped dendritic nonlinearity and binary synapses. The connections on each dendritic branch is sparse and the neurons learn to classify patterns when trained using different structural plasticity rules. Thus learning happens by modiying network connection matrix and not by weight change. These networks have advantage for hardware implementations--reduced memory and resistance to mismatch due to binary synapses. We have demonstrated supervised and unsupervised spike time based learning rules and have used these networks as readout of liquid state machines, to improve the reservoir in a liquid state machine, to classify spike latency patterns like tempotron or to classify MNIST images. I summarize the papers below and also include arxiv links for your reading pleasure. 1. S. Hussain, S. C. Liu and A. Basu, "Biologically plausible, Hardware-friendly Structural Learning for Spike-based pattern classification using a simple model of Active Dendrites," Neural Computation , vol. 27, no. 4, pp. 845-897, April 2015 link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1411.5881.pdf ** Margin based learning, spike time based supervised learning, results on UCI dataset 2. S. Roy, A. Banerjee and A. Basu, "Liquid State Machine with Dendritically Enhanced Readout for Low-power, Neuromorphic VLSI Implementations," IEEE Trans. on Biomedical Circuits & Systems , vol. 8, no. 5, pp. 681-695, 2014. link:http://arxiv.org/pdf/1411.5458.pdf ** Readout of LSM, 30X less binary synapses compared to parallel perceptron 3. S. Roy, P. P. San, S. Hussain, Lee Wang Wei and A. Basu, "Learning Spike Time Codes through Morphological Learning with Binary Synapses," IEEE Trans. on Neural Networks & Learning Systems , vol. 27, no. 7, July 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1506.05212.pdf ** Classifying spike time latency patterns, comparison with tempotron 4. S. Hussain and A. Basu, "Multi-class Classification by Adaptive Network of Dendritic Neurons with Binary Synapses using Structural Plasticity," Frontiers in Neuroscience , Mar, 2016. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00113 link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4814530/ ** Ensemble learning, adaptive allocation of dendrites, performance on MNIST, hardware savings analysis 5. S. Roy and A. Basu, "An Online Unsupervised Structural Plasticity Algorithm for Spiking Neural Networks," IEEE Trans. on Neural Networks and Learning Systems , accepted, 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1512.01314.pdf ** unsupervised spike time based learning, sequence learning 6.S. Roy and A. Basu, "An online structural plasticity rule for generating better reservoirs," Neural Computation , accepted, 2016. link: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1604.05459.pdf ** Improving separation property of reservoirs in LSM Thanks Arindam Basu Assistant Professor School of EEE Nanyang Technological University http://www3.ntu.edu.sg/home/arindam.basu/ Regards, Arindam ________________________________ 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.

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comp-neuro current status
by Wijnants Mike June 16, 2016

June 16, 2016

Dear comp-neuro user, As you may have noticed the comp-neuro mailing list has been offline for a few weeks. Unfortunately we lost access to the previous domain name because of miscommunication with the domain provider. To serve the computational neuroscience community we have decided to restart the service with a temporary domain as comp-neuro(a)neuroinformatics.be We plan to migrate to another domain name in the future and will announce this when ready. Groetjes, Erik

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PhD position on Multistable perception : modelisation and analyse gaze and electroencephalographic correlates
by Alan Chauvin May 20, 2016

May 20, 2016

Application are invited for a PhD studentship in Modelling multistable perception by stochastic resonance processes. Closing dates for applications : 15th June 2016. In summary, the main objectives of this PhD are to unify available models of stochastic resonance and to experimentally evaluate the contribution of gaze noise to decision making processes in multistable perception. To this aim, the successful candidate will contribute to theoretical, methodological, and experimental studies. Three research axes are identified: (1) developing stochastic resonance models and comparing these models to the recent Bayesian models described in [Moreno-Bote, Knill & Pouget, 2011]; (2) development of a tool set for the analysis of the neuronal correlates based on EEG feature extraction and machine learning for perceptual change prediction; (3) the design of experimental paradigms for multistable perception, with gaze and/or EEG recordings. This subject is on a confluence of multiple research axes, all essential for a successful PhD : • Stochastic resonance modelling: GIPSA-lab/CICS • Retinal modelling: GIPSA-lab/ViBS, LPNC • Study of micro-saccades: LPNC, GIPSA-lab/CICS • Gaze experiment design: GIPSA-lab/ViBS, LPNC • Joint Gaze and EEG experiment design : GIPSA-lab/ViBS • EEG signal analysis : GIPSA-lab/ViBS. Apllicants should have a strong background in stochastic signal processing and have strong interest in pstychophysics, oculometry and EERG recording. French is not mandatory. The Gipsa-lab is situated in the University Grenoble-Alpes (UGA : http://www.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr) The UGA is located in Grenoble, an international city and a wonderful place to live, work, and study. Nestled in the Alps, Grenoble enjoys an incomparable natural setting, with opportunities for sports lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. More information on : https://www.adum.fr/as/ed/page.pl?site=edeeats&page=CDlisteSujetFleche *PhD director : * Steeve Zozor (CR, CNRS, HDR EEATS, GIPSA-lab, research group CICS) *steeve.zozor(a)gipsa-lab.grenoble-inp.fr <steeve.zozor(a)gipsa-lab.grenoble-inp.fr>**, tel 33 (0)4 76 82 71 04* *PhD supervisors : * Ronald Phlypo (MCF Grenoble-INP, GIPSA-lab, research group ViBS) *ronald.phlypo(a)gipsa-lab.grenoble-inp.fr <ronald.phlypo(a)gipsa-lab.grenoble-inp.fr>**, tel 33 (0)4 76 82 64 86* Alan Chauvin (MCF UGA, lab LPNC, research group Perception et Sensori-Motricité) alan.chauvin@ <alan.chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr>univ <alan.chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr>-grenoble- <alan.chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr> alpes <alan.chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr>.fr <alan.chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr>*, tel 33 (0)4 76 82 69 26* -- Laboratoire de Psychologie et NeuroCognition LPNC CNRS UMR 5105 Universite Pierre-Mendes France (UPMF) Batiment Science de l'Homme et Math (BSHM) 38041 Grenoble Cedex 09 Alan.Chauvin(a)upmf-grenoble.fr 33 (0) 476 825 926

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Researcher positions at ATR Brain Labs (Kyoto, Japan)
by Haruo HOSOYA May 20, 2016

May 20, 2016

Dear all, I am pleased to announce that ATR Brain Labs in Kyoto, Japan has open positions for researchers or engineers in theoretical visual neuroscience. I would appreciate if you forward the following message to anyone who might be interested. Best regards, Haruo Hosoya, Senior Researcher Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging ATR Brain Labs, Cognitive Mechanisms Laboratories ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * Researcher and Engineer positions at ATR Brain Labs, Kyoto, Japan Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR), Kyoto, Japan, has open positions for researchers and research engineers in computational visual neuroscience. We seek for applicants who are particularly interested in theoretical studies on hierarchical vision models based on statistical learning. The studies should be motivated toward understanding of computation and representation in visual cortex, where a stronger emphasis should be put on biological connections and theoretical insights rather than short-term applicability. Specific topics may include but are not limited to: - category-specific representations in higher visual areas - visual recognition and imagery - relationship between neural activities and visual consciousness (perception) * Requirements for Researchers Applicants must have a Ph.D. or be near completion. Successful candidates will have expertise in one of the mathematical areas listed below, as well as strong interest in neuroscience and good programming experience. – computational neuroscience, machine learning, computer vision * Requirements for Research Engineers Applicants must have good programming experience and strong motivations to take part in the research above mainly from program development. * Number of openings A few * Employment conditions Position : Full-time Researcher / Full-time Research Engineer Tenure : Single year based contract, renewable based on evaluation Treatment: Based on individual performance Work Location: Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan * Application materials Please submit the following five materials to the contact address below, either in printed or electronic form: 1 CV 2 List of publications 3 Reprints of 1-3 major publications (applicants for Researchers) or summary of past projects 4 Essay (up to two pages in A4 or letter size) describing: – Summary of your previous research and/or development – Interests for research – Additional research skills not directly foreseeable from 1 or 2 5 Recommendation letters from more than two researchers If submitted in printed form, original documents will not be returned. * Judging system After documentary examination, we ask for presentation and interview if needed. * Starting date Soon (negotiable) * Deadline for application Opens until positions are filled. * Contact Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging ATR Cognitive Mechanisms Laboratories (Application for Researcher Position) 2-2-2 Hikaridai, Seika-cho, Soraku-gun, Kyoto 619-0288, Japan Email: dbi-tvn at atr.jp at=@ Web: http://www.cns.atr.jp/dbi/en/open-positons/ * Use of personal data All personal data received will be properly managed and only be used for the purpose of recruitment.

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Postdoctoral fellowship in primate neurophysiology, University of Arizona (Gothard Lab)
by Ueli Rutishauser May 19, 2016

May 19, 2016

*Postdoctoral fellowship in primate neurophysiology.* *University of Arizona, College and Medicine, Department of Physiology, Tucson. * Applications are invited to join a Medical Research Fund for Neuroscience and NIH funded research program investigating the neural mechanisms of emotion and social interactions in non-human primates. The applicant will carry out neural recordings from the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex of macaque monkeys using multielectrode arrays and will explore the patterns of neural activity within the brain and between brains of two monkeys engaged in social interactions. This will include, behavioral work with monkeys (training and preparation them for electrophysiological recordings), neurophysiological recordings, and data analysis. The applicant will have access to state-of-the art equipment, facilities, and will work in a team with established expertise in behavioral neurophysiology, with ample opportunity to learn new experimental approaches, techniques and methods. Candidates should have a recent PhD in systems or computational neuroscience with a track-record of first-author publications. Strong analytical and programming (Matlab or similar), skill and expertise in data analysis and statistics are essential. Individuals with strong analytical and technical skills who wish to expand into neurophysiological recordings are encouraged to apply, provided they are prepared to run quasi-independently neurophysiological experiments. Excellent written and oral English communication skills are required. The position is available from July 1st 2016, with a competitive salary commensurate with prior experience (NIH scale). The position is available with an initial appointment for one year and renewal based upon satisfactory performance. Applicants must pass background screening and health checks to be able to work with monkeys. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity employers and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should send a CV, statement of research accomplishments and interests, copies of 2-3 representative publications and contact information for 2-3 reference letters to Katalin Gothard at kgothard(a)email.arizona.edu Informal inquiries are welcome. Further information about the lab can be found at www.gothardlab.com (Please note I am posting this on behalf of a collaborator, please do not contact me for this job).

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15 PhD positions for PACE, an EU funded Innovative Training Network for understanding Perception and Action in Complex Environments
by Laurent Perrinet May 19, 2016

May 19, 2016

Dear colleagues, PACE (Perception and Action in Complex Environments) is an Innovative Training Network funded by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie program of the European Union starting on April 1st, 2015. The network involves 10 academic and private full partners, from 6 European and associated countries (France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, UK, Israel), plus 5 associated partners (private companies and public organizations). The network gathers a broad range of expertise from experimental psychology, cognitive neurosciences, brain imaging, technology and clinical sciences as well as transferable skills. The PACE network promotes interdisciplinary research and training in the field of human movement sciences with a strong emphasis on perception-action coupling in complex environments. We focus on changes of this coupling across lifespan and in pathological diseases affecting the nervous system. The goal is to train PhD students through collaborative research projects, international courses and workshops. -> 15 PhD positions, starting next fall, are offered across the different network sites. You can find a short description of the proposed PhD projects at the following link: http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/IMG/pdf/PACE_Table_positions.pdf Applications are welcome immediately and until the end of May (but some specific timing constraints may be enforced in some of the partners' sites: please get more information from local contacts). You will find further general information (sections 1 to 3), eligibility and application conditions (section 4) here: http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/-ITN-Marie-Curie-network-PACE Thanks for distributing this announcement to potential candidates, Laurent -- Laurent Perrinet - INT (UMR 7289)/CNRS http://invibe.net/LaurentPerrinet

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［CFP］ICDM2016 Workshop Data Mining in Human Activity Analysis (DMHAA)
by 刘伟锋 May 18, 2016

May 18, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊ Call for papers ICDM2016 Workshop Data Mining in Human Activity Analysis (DMHAA) December 12, 2016 http://staff.ustc.edu.cn/~xinmei/ICDM2016_Workshop/ICDM2016_Workshop.html ＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊ Human activity analysis is an important area of computer vision and pattern recognition research with the rapid development of computing and sensing technologies such as the emergence of social network and wearable devices. It is becoming more and more critical to develop human-centered multimedia analytics including human behavior recognition, personal data mining, experiences of wearable-device applications, intelligent surveillance, semantic relationship analysis between heterogeneous multimedia. The development of the Internet of Things opens up great potential. Many data mining or machine learning techniques have recently been successfully developed and applied to human activity analysis. For example, smart devices (e.g. Microsoft’s SenseCam, Google Glass, smart phone, smart watches, portable EEG acquisition devices, etc.) facilitate the capture and collection of human activity multimedia; sparse representation is widely employed for human activity recognition; multi-view learning algorithms significantly boost the performance of human re-identify; manifold learning algorithms dramatically enhance the recognition rates in human behavior analysis where there is only a few labeled samples; and deep learning has produced promising results in many human-centered applications. Motivated by the inclination to collect a set of recent advances and results in these related topics, provide a platform for researchers to exchange their innovative ideas and attractive improvements on human activity analysis, and introduce interesting utilizations of data mining and machine learning algorithms for particular human-centered applications, this workshop will target emergent data mining methods for human activity analysis. To summarize, this workshop welcomes a broad range of submissions developing and using data mining techniques for human activity analysis. We are especially interested in 1) theoretical advances as well as algorithm developments in data mining for human activity analysis, 2) reports of practical applications and system innovations in human activity analysis, and 3) novel data sets as test bed for new developments, preferably with implemented standard benchmarks. The following list suggests topics of interest (but not limited to): • Multi-view Learning algorithms for Human Activity Analysis • Sparse and/or Manifold Learning for Human Activity Representation • Human Action Recognition in Images/Videos • Human Behavior Analysis • Human-centered Social Media Analytics • Smart Computing for Personal Data Mining • Deep Learning for Human-centered Media • Parallel Computing for Human-centered Media • Experiences of wearable-device applications • Human-centered Data Visualization • Analytics developed from Computational Psychoanalysis and related underpinnings. Accepted papers will be included in the IEEE ICDM 2016 Workshops Proceedings volume published by IEEE Computer Society Press, and will also be included in the IEEE Xplore Digital Library. The workshop proceedings will be in a CD separated from the CD of the main conference. The CD is produced by IEEE Conference Publishing Services (CPS). Important Dates August 12, 2016: Due date for full workshop papers September 13, 2016: Notification of workshop papers acceptance to authors September 20, 2016: Camera-ready deadline for accepted papers December 12, 2016: Workshop date Instruction for paper submission The page limit of workshop papers is 8 pages in the standard IEEE 2-column format ( http://www.ieee.org/conferences_events/conferences/publishing/templates.html) including the bibliography and any possible appendices. All papers must be formatted according to the IEEE Computer Society proceedings manuscript style, following IEEE ICDM 2016 submission guidelines available at http://icdm2016.eurecat.org/. Papers should be submitted in PDF format, electronically, using the CyberChair submission system ( https://wi-lab.com/cyberchair/2016/icdm16/scripts/submit.php?subarea=S08&un… ). Registration and expenses Every workshop paper must have at least one paid registration in order to be published, no matter whether the author is a workshop organizer or an invited speaker. Workshop organizers: Dr. Xinmei Tian Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China, 230027. Email: xinmei(a)ustc.edu.cn Website: http://staff.ustc.edu.cn/~xinmei/ Phone: +86 551-63600281 Dr. Weifeng Liu, China University of Petroleum (East China), #66, Changjiang Road West, Huangdao District, Qingdao 266480, China, Email: liuwf(a)upc.edu.cn Prof. Fionn Murtagh Department of Computing and Mathematics, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK, and Department of Computing, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, SE14 6NW, UK.. Email: fmurtagh(a)acm.org Website: http://www.fmurtagh.info

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PhD/MSc Student Position in Systems Neuroscience at the University of Lethbridge, Canada
by Tatsuno, Masami May 17, 2016

May 17, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] --- PhD/MSc Student Position in Systems Neuroscience at the University of Lethbridge, Canada --- One PhD/MSc student position is available immediately in the labs of Prof. Masami Tatsuno and Prof. Majid Mohajerani at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience (CCBN), University of Lethbridge, Canada (http://www.uleth.ca/artsci/neuroscience/about) We investigate memory processes of the awake/sleeping brain experimentally and computationally with the goal of understanding how spontaneous neural activity during sleep facilitates performance improvement. We use the state-of-the-art multi-electrode recordings from freely behaving rodents and imaging techniques such as two-photon Calcium imaging and wide-field voltage imaging. The successful candidate will investigate how external manipulation of sleep contributes to consolidation of memory. Several different methods including transcranial direct current stimulation, targeted memory reactivation and optogenetics will be employed. The successful candidate will also have an opportunity to participate in developing a novel analysis method for neural signals and modeling memory function. A high degree of interaction with the labs in the Brain Dynamics group ( http://lethbridgebraindynamics.com ) as well as in CCBN ( http://www.uleth.ca/artsci/neuroscience ) will be also expected. Motivated candidates should email a short letter of research interest including their skills and experience, CV and the names of three references to Masami Tatsuno (tatsuno(a)uleth.ca<mailto:tatsuno@uleth.ca>). Please do not have reference letters sent unless requested. Applicants should put "SysNeuro PhD/MSc recruitment" in the subject of their email. Various funding will be available depending on the candidate's qualification. Lethbridge is located two hours from Calgary, 90 minutes from the Canadian Rockies and is a safe, family friendly environment. ********************************************* Masami Tatsuno, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Neuroscience The University of Lethbridge Email: tatsuno(a)uleth.ca<mailto:tatsuno@uleth.ca> http://lethbridgebraindynamics.com/masami_tatsuno Majid Mohajerani, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Neuroscience The University of Lethbridge Email: mohajerani(a)uleth.ca<mailto:mohajerani@uleth.ca> http://lethbridgebraindynamics.com/majid-mohajerani/ *********************************************

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[jobs] Lecture in Computer Science, Aberystwyth UK
by Patricia Shaw May 17, 2016

May 17, 2016

Lecturer in Computer Science, Aberystwyth University, Wales, UK £34,576 - £37,768 per annum Closing Date: 19 June 2016 Interview Date: 6 July 2016 Ref No: IMPACS.16.06 Further details and to apply: https://jobs.aber.ac.uk/en/vacancy/lecturer-in-computer-science-264661.html The Department of Computer Science wishes to appoint a lecturer to undertake teaching and research. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to both postgraduate and undergraduate teaching, and to demonstrate a strong research record in an area that is of direct relevance to at least one of the four research groups within the Department: *Intelligent Robotics; Vision, Graphics and Visualisation; Advanced Reasoning; and Bioinformatics*, with a preference for *Bioinformatics or Space Robotics*. The interviewed candidates will be expected to present a lecture or lecture excerpt as part of the selection process. Prospective applicants may discuss the post informally with the Head of Department, Dr Bernie Tiddeman (e-mail: bpt(a)aber.ac.uk) or the Director of the Institute of Maths, Physics and Computer Science, Professor Qiang Shen (qqs(a)aber.ac.uk)

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Postdoctoral Research Scientist Position in Neuroimaging and Neurostimulation
by Paul Sajda May 16, 2016

May 16, 2016

The Laboratory for Intelligent Imaging and Neural Computing (LIINC) directed by Prof. Paul Sajda at Columbia University has an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Fellow) to participate in a project focused on building and characterizing an integrated closed-loop multimodal neuroimaging and neurostimulation system for use in humans. This is a joint project with the Medical University of South Carolina (Profs. Truman Brown and Mark George ) where we are building an EEG/fMRI/TMS instrument capable of real-time and on-line neurostimulation and imaging. Our long term goal is to use the instrument for both basic science and clinical applications. The successful applicant will be involved in both developing and testing the instrument as well as conducting novel scientific experiments and clinical studies. Applicants should have a background in several of the following area: Recording and analysis of simultaneous EEG and fMRI , real-time signal processing, recording and analysis of simultaneous EEG and TMS, instrumentation (digital and analog electronics), machine learning. A Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or Neuroscience is preferred. LIINC (liinc.bme.columbia.edu <http://liinc.bme.columbia.edu/>) is within the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University. We are part of a dynamic and vibrant neuroengineering environment which includes the Center for Neuroengineering and Computation (cnec.columbia.edu <http://cnec.columbia.edu/>) the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute (zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu <http://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/>) and the Data Sciences Institute (dsi.columbia.edu <http://dsi.columbia.edu/>). Interested candidates should send via email their CV, three representative papers, the names of three references, and cover letter to Prof. Paul Sajda (psajda(a)columbia.edu) The position is for one year, with the option to renew for 2-3 years, given satisfactory performance and available funding. The position is available immediately and applicants will be considered on a rolling basis. Paul Sajda, Ph.D. Professor Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Radiology Columbia University 351 Engineering Terrace Building, Mail Code 8904 1210 Amsterdam Avenue New York, NY 10027 tel: (212) 854-5279 fax: (212) 854-8725 email: ps629(a)columbia.edu http://liinc.bme.columbia.edu <http://liinc.bme.columbia.edu/> Editor-in-Chief IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering email: editortnsre(a)gmail.com http://tnsre.bme.columbia.edu <http://tnsre.bme.columbia.edu/> Chair, IEEE BRAIN Initiative http://brain.ieee.org <http://brain.ieee.org/>

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CALL FOR LATE-BREAKING PAPERS for 2nd Int. Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2016 - Paper submission: May 28, 2016
by Giuseppe Nicosia May 16, 2016

May 16, 2016

CALL FOR LATE-BREAKING PAPERS for 2nd Int. Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2016 - Paper submission: May 28, 2016 [Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this announcement] [Please kindly help forward it to potentially interested attendees] 2nd International Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization and big Data - MOD 2016 An Interdisciplinary Workshop: Machine Learning, Optimization and Data Science without Borders, Volterra (Pisa) -Tuscany, August 26-29, 2016 http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ <http://www.taosciences.it/mod/> modworkshop2016(a)gmail.com <mailto:modworkshop2016@gmail.com> CALL FOR PAPERS Paper submission deadline: May 28, 2016 http://www.taosciences.it/mod/call-for-papers/ <http://www.taosciences.it/mod/call-for-papers/> https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2016 <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2016> KEYNOTE SPEAKERS + Nello Cristianini, Bristol University, UK + George Michailidis, University of Florida, USA + Stephen H. Muggleton, Imperial College London, UK + Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA Other Keynote Speakers will be announced soon POST-PROCEEDINGS by Lecture Notes in Computer Science - Springer JOURNAL SPECIAL ISSUE Computational Optimization and Applications Journal - Springer INDUSTRIAL PANEL + Amr Awadallah, Founder and CTO at Cloudera, San Francisco, USA + Giovanni Giuffrida, CEO and co-founder at Neodata Group, Italy + Andy Petrella, Data Scientist and co-founder at Data Fellas, Liège, Belgium + Daniele Quercia, Head of Social Dynamics group at Bell Labs, Cambridge, UK + Fabrizio Silvestri, Principal Research Scientist at Yahoo London, UK TUTORIALS + Model Selection and Error Estimation Without the Agonizing Pain”, Luca Oneto and Davide Anguita, DIBRIS – Polytechnic School – University of Genova, Italy + “Information Geometry: Applications in Machine Learning and Stochastic Optimization”, Luigi Malagò, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan SPECIAL SESSIONS + Deep Learning: Theory, Architectures, Algorithms and Applications + Data-driven Algorithmics – Data for informed decisions + Multi-Objective Optimization Algorithms The MOD 2016 workshop will consist of four days of workshop sessions and special sessions. We invite submissions of papers, abstracts and posters on all topics related to Machine learning, Optimization and Big Data including real-world applications for the workshop proceedings. MOD 2016 Types of Submissions When submitting a paper to MOD 2016, authors are required to select one of the following four types of papers: + Long paper: original novel and unpublished work (max. 12 pages in Springer LNCS format); + Short paper: an extended abstract of novel work (max. 4 pages); + Work for oral presentation only (no page restriction; any format). For example, work already published elsewhere, which is relevant and which may solicit fruitful discussion at the workshop; + Work for poster presentation only. The poster format for the presentation is A0 (118.9 cm high and 84.1 cm wide, respectively 46.8 x 33.1 inch). For research work which is relevant and which may solicit fruitful discussion at the workshop. MOD 2016 Post-Proceedings All accepted long papers will be published in a volume of the series 'Lecture Notes in Computer Science' from Springer after the Workshop. Instructions for preparing and submitting the final versions (camera-ready papers) of all accepted papers will be available later on. All the other papers (short papers, abstract of the oral presentations, poster presentations) will be published on the MOD 2016 web site. Journal Special Issue on Computational Optimization and Applications Journal The top 8-10 accepted articles will have the opportunity to publish a revised and expanded version of their conference paper in the Computational Optimization and Applications Journal – Springer. MOD 2016 Submission System All papers must be submitted using EasyChair: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2016 <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=mod2016> The deadline is May 28, 2016 Important Dates for the MOD 2016 Post-Proceedings + Paper Submission Deadline: May 28, 2016 + Decision Notification to Authors: June 10, 2016 + Camera Ready Submission Deadline: June 30, 2016 + Deadline for early Registration as Presenting Author: July 10, 2016 + MOD 2016 Workshop: August 26-29, 2016 MOD 2016 Program Committee The current MOD 2016 Program Committee includes 300+ confirmed Program Committee members: http://www.taosciences.it/mod/program-committee/ <http://www.taosciences.it/mod/program-committee/> Any questions regarding the submission process can be sent to workshop organizers: modworkshop2016(a)gmail.com <mailto:modworkshop2016@gmail.com> We look forward to seeing you in Tuscany! Giovanni Giuffrida, Giuseppe Nicosia & Panos Pardalos - MOD 2016 Chairs. http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ <http://www.taosciences.it/mod/> modworkshop2016(a)gmail.com <mailto:modworkshop2016@gmail.com> MOD 2015 Edition: http://www.taosciences.it/mod-2015/MOD <http://www.taosciences.it/mod-2015/MOD> 2015 MOD 2015 Keynote Speakers: Vipin Kumar, University of Minnesota, USA Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA Tomaso Poggio, MIT, USA -- Giuseppe Nicosia, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Computer Engineering Dept of Mathematics & Computer Science University of Catania Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy P +39 095 7383048 nicosia(a)dmi.unict.it http://www.dmi.unict.it/nicosia ================================================================== 3rd International Synthetic & Systems Biology Summer School - SSBSS 2016 * Biology meets Computer Science & Engineering * July 8-14, 2016 - Volterra (Pisa), Tuscany, Italy http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ ================================================================== 2nd International Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2016 August 26-29, 2016 - Volterra (Pisa), Tuscany, Italy http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ ==================================================================

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[CALL FOR PAPERS] Special Session on Computational Intelligence Techniques and Applications at TENCON 2016
by Teng Teck Hou May 15, 2016

May 15, 2016

[Apologies for cross-postings] ############################################### CALL FOR PAPERS TENCON 2016 Special Session - Computational Intelligence Techniques and Applications November 22 - 25, 2016, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore http://www.tencon2016.org ############################################### Computational intelligence (CI) techniques encompass good-old-fashion AI (GOFAI), soft computing and deep learning techniques. The ebb and flow of these CI techniques closely tracks the technology cycles. CI techniques such as evolutionary techniques, swarm intelligence, artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy logic were mere research topics for decades before suitable computing hardware is available for their use in a broad spectrum of industrial and consumer applications. Recent computing hardware and sensor technologies have also fast-tracked the research and development of many emerging CI techniques. Held annually in IEEE Region 10 since 1980, TENCON has been an important multi-disciplinary platform of IEEE Region 10 for sharing and discussing new and emerging ideas. The theme for TENCON 2016 is Future Technologies for Smart Nation. Therefore, this TENCON'16 Special Session on Computational Intelligence Techniques and Applications for Smart Nation invites all researchers to submit papers on their use of CI techniques for enabling Smart Nation. ##################Important Date################## - Open for Submission March 1st, 2016 - Submission Deadline May, 30th, 2016 - Notice of Acceptance August 1st, 2016 - Final Manuscript Submission September 10th, 2016 ################################################## ##################Topics and Areas of Interest################## This special session solicits papers addressing original works in topics and areas of interest including, but are not limited to: - Fundamental CI Methodologies o Deep learning techniques o Reinforcement learning techniques o Supervised learning techniques o Unsupervised learning techniques o Evolutionary computing techniques o Artificial Neural Networks o Swarm Intelligence o Graphical Models o Bayesian Statistics - CI in Real-World Applications o Time Series Prediction o Sensor Networks o Recommender Systems o Robotic Systems o Intelligent Transportation System o Big Data for Smart Nation o Pattern Recognition o Computer Vision and Image Understanding o Intelligent Control Systems ################################################################ ############Paper Submission and Publication############ - The best papers will be selected from the contributed papers for awards. - The presented papers will be submitted to IEEE Xplore which is indexed by major databases. - Full papers can have up to four pages in double-column IEEE Conference format. - At least one author of an accepted submission to the conference should register with a regular fee to present their work at the conference. - Any enquiry on the submission of papers can be made to Teck-Hou Teng at thteng(a)smu.edu.sg ######################################################## ##################Organizing Committee################## - Teck-Hou Teng, Singapore Management University - Justin Dauwels, Nanyang Technological University - Erdal Kayacan, Nanyang Technological University ########################################################

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Call for Papers: 8th International Conference on Brain Inspired Cognitive Systems (BICS 2016), Beijing, 28-30 Nov 2016: http://bii.ia.ac.cn/bics-2016/index.html
by Dr Amir Hussain May 15, 2016

May 15, 2016

CALL FOR PAPERS (Deadline: 10 June 2016) and SPECIAL SESSION/WORKSHOP PROPOSALS (Deadline June 1, 2016): (with apologies for any cross postings - please forward to any interested colleagues, thank you) The 8th International Conference on Brain-Inspired Cognitive Systems (BICS 2016), is being organized by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Research Centre for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Institute of Automation) in Beijing, November 28-30, 2016 - in partnership with the University of Stirling (Scotland, UK), and with technical co-sponsorship of the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society: http://bii.ia.ac.cn/bics-2016/index.html BICS 2016 is being held in Beijing, China, as a sequel of BICS 2004 - 2015. The first BICS 2004 was held in Stirling, Scotland, UK and the last BICS 2015 in Hefei, Anhui, China. BICS 2016 aims to provide a high-level international forum for scientists, engineers, and educators to present the state-of-the-art in brain-inspired cognitive systems research and applications in diverse fields. It will bring together leading scientists and engineers who use analytic, syntactic and computational methods both to understand the prodigious processing properties of biological systems and, specifically, of the brain, and to exploit such knowledge to advance computational methods towards ever higher levels of cognitive competence. The conference will feature plenary lectures given by world renowned scholars, regular sessions with broad coverage, and special sessions/workshops focusing on popular and timely topics. All accepted BICS 2016 papers will be published in conference proceedings of the Springer LNAI Book series. Selected papers will be published in a special issue of the leading (ISI SCI indexed) Cognitive Computation Journal (published by Springer Nature: http://Springer.com/12559 - first five year ISI impact factor: 1.73) BICS'2016 TOPICS OF INTEREST: These include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Biologically Inspired Systems (BICS-BIS) - Brain inspired systems - Brain inspired vision - Brain inspired audition and sound processing - Brain inspired other sensory modalities - Brain inspired motion processing - Brain inspired robotics - Brain inspired adaptive and control systems - Brain inspired evolutionary systems - Brain inspired oscillatory systems - Brain inspired signal processing - Brain inspired learning - Neuromorphic systems 2. Cognitive Neuroscience (BICS-CNS) - Cognitive neuroscience - Cognitive neuroscience of vision - Cognitive neuroscience of non-vision sensory modalities - Cognitive neuroscience of volition - Systems neuroscience - Attentional mechanisms - Affective systems - Language - Cortical models - Sub-cortical models - Cerebellar models - Neural correlates 3. Models of Consciousness (BICS-MoC) - World awareness - Self-awareness - Global workspace theory - Imagination - Qualia models - Virtual machine approaches - Formal models fo consciousness - Control theoretical models - Developmental/Infant models - Will and volition - Emotion and affect - Philosophical implications - Neurophysiological grounding - Enactive approaches - Heterophenomenology - Analyitic/Synthetic phenomenology 4. Neural Computation (BICS-NC) - Neuro-computational systems - Hybrid neural systems - Neural learning - Neural control systems - Neural signal processing - Architectures of neural computation - Neural devices - Neural perception and pattern classifiers - Neuro-fuzzy systems - Evolutionary neural networks - Biological neural network models - Applications - Others BICS 2016 SPECIAL SESSIONS AND WORKSHOPS: CALL FOR PROPOSALS To enhance the technical program and open the door to more specific cutting-edge topics and areas related to Brain-inspired Cognitive Systems, BICS 2016 welcomes proposals for timely Special Sessions and Workshops (which will be included in the Conference programme, in addition to regular sessions). Special sessions/workshops can cover subjects or cross-subjects belonging to any relevant BICS topic(s) of interest, or novel topic(s) related to BICS topics of interest. Papers submitted for special sessions and workshops will be peer-reviewed with the same criteria as for regular sessions. All proposals for BICS2016 Special Sessions and Workshops should contain the following information: -Title of the special session or workshop -Names, affiliations, email addresses and short bios of proposers -Description of the proposed session or workshop (including aims and scope) -List of 6-10 potential contributors Researchers interested in organizing Special Sessions/Workshops are invited to submit a formal proposal, which will be evaluated based on the timeliness of the topic, its uniqueness, and qualifications of the proposers. A tentative accept/reject decision on the proposal will be sent to proposers within one week after its receipt by the BICS 2016 Special Sessions and Workshops Chair. Accepted Special Sessions/Workshops will be listed on the website. Formal proposals (including any queries) should be submitted to the BICS 2016 Special Sessions & Workshops Chair: Dr. Jingpeng Li ( jli(a)cs.stir.ac.uk ). Special Sessions/Workshops proposals deadline: 1 June 2016 PAPER SUBMISSION: Papers should be limited to 8-10 pages in Springer LNCS format. Details can be found in http://bii.ia.ac.cn/bics-2016/submission.htm To submit, please login at https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=bics2016 IMPORTANT DATES: Paper submission deadline: June 10, 2016 Acceptance notification: August 10, 2016 Camera-ready papers due: September 10, 2016 Conference dates: November 28-30, 2016 Special Session/Workshop proposals deadline: June 1 , 2016 (acceptance notification: 8 June 2016) BICS 2016 ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: General Chairs: Cheng-Lin Liu (Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China) Amir Hussain (University of Stirling, Scotland, UK) Program Chairs: Bin Luo (Anhui University, China) Kay Chen Tan (National University of Singapore, Singapore) Publicity Chairs: Cesare Alippi (Politecnico di Milano, Italy) Haibo He (University of Rhode Island, USA) Hussein Abbass (University of New South Wales - Canberra - Australia) Erik Cambria (NTU, Singapore) Local Organization Chair: Yi Zeng (Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China) Publication Chair: Zhaoxiang Zhang (Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China) Special Sessions and Workshops Chair: Jingpeng Li (University of Stirling, Scotland, UK) Secretariat: bics2016(a)ia.ac.cn We looking forward to seeing you at BICS'2016! -- The University achieved an overall 5 stars in the QS World University Rankings 2015 The University of Stirling is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC 011159.

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Reminder: Summer School "Advanced Scientific Programming in Python" in Reading, UK, September 5--11, 2016
by Jakob Jordan May 13, 2016

May 13, 2016

Reminder: Deadline for application is 23:59 UTC, May 15, 2016. Advanced Scientific Programming in Python ========================================= a Summer School by the G-Node, and the Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, UK 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. You can apply online: https://python.g-node.org Application deadline: 23:59 UTC, May 15, 2016. Be sure to read the FAQ before applying. Participation is for free, i.e. no fee is charged! Participants however should take care of travel, living, and accommodation expenses by themselves. Travel grants may be available. Date & Location =============== September 5—11, 2016. Reading, UK Program ======= - Best Programming Practices • Best practices for scientific programming • Version control with git and how to contribute to open source projects with GitHub • Best practices in data visualization - Software Carpentry • Test-driven development • Debugging with a debuggger • Profiling code - Scientific Tools for Python • Advanced NumPy - Advanced Python • Decorators • Context managers • Generators - The Quest for Speed • Writing parallel applications • Interfacing to C with Cython • Memory-bound problems and memory profiling • Data containers: storage and fast access to large data - Practical Software Development • Group project Preliminary Faculty =================== • Francesc Alted, freelance consultant, author of PyTables, Spain • Pietro Berkes, Enthought Inc., Cambridge, UK • Zbigniew Jędrzejewski-Szmek, Krasnow Institute, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA • Eilif Muller, Blue Brain Project, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland • Juan Nunez-Iglesias, Victorian Life Sciences Computation Initiative, University of Melbourne, Australia • Rike-Benjamin Schuppner, Institute for Theoretical Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany • Bartosz Teleńczuk, European Institute for Theoretical Neuroscience, CNRS, Paris, France • Stéfan van der Walt, Berkeley Institute for Data Science, UC Berkeley, CA, USA • Nelle Varoquaux, Centre for Computational Biology Mines ParisTech, Institut Curie, U900 INSERM, Paris, France • Tiziano Zito, freelance consultant, Germany Organizers ========== For the German Neuroinformatics Node of the INCF (G-Node) Germany: • Tiziano Zito, freelance consultant, Germany • Zbigniew Jędrzejewski-Szmek, Krasnow Institute, George Mason University, Fairfax, USA • Jakob Jordan, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Germany For the Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading UK: • Etienne Roesch, Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics, University of Reading, UK 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 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Postdoc Position in Computational Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute, Leipzig, Germany
by Katharina von Kriegstein May 13, 2016

May 13, 2016

Applications are welcomed for a postdoctoral research position at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (MPI-CBS) in Leipzig, Germany in collaboration with the Technical University Dresden, Germany. The objective of the postdoctoral research project is to use computational modelling and neuroimaging to work towards a novel model for cortico-subcortical interactions for human communication signals. The project is funded by the ERC-consolidator grant SENSOCOM (http://cordis.europa.eu/project/rcn/199655_en.html) The position will be jointly supervised by Katharina von Kriegstein at the MPI-CBS and Stefan Kiebel at the TU Dresden. The MPI-CBS offers a unique research environment with a 7.0 T MRI scanner, several 3.0 T MRI scanners, a 306 channels MEG system, TMS/tDCS laboratories, several EEG suites, and eye-tracking labs. All facilities and data analyses are supported by experienced IT specialists and physicists. The TU Dresden is one out of eleven German Universities of Excellence. It houses a state-of-the art neuroimaging centre with a strong focus on computational modelling and access to the TU Dresden high-performance computing clusters. Besides an excellent infrastructure, both centres offer an international and friendly environment with researchers from diverse backgrounds. The position is ideal for candidates interested in research at the interface between computational modelling and experimental neuroimaging. The candidates must have a PhD (or equivalent) in computational neuroscience, experimental psychology, or a related field, and should be able to demonstrate a consistently outstanding academic record, including publications. The ideal candidate will have expertise in computational neuroscience, physics, mathematics, or similar with a strong interest in implementing computational models (e.g., Bayesian filtering, hierarchical dynamic models, predictive coding) and testing these with neuroimaging experiments. The starting date for the position is flexible. Initially for two years, the position offers the possibility of extension for up to four years. Salary depends on experience and is based on regulations of the Max Planck Society. To apply, please include all documents in one PDF-file in the following order: CV, contact information of two referees, a brief statement describing your personal qualifications and future research interests, copies of up to three of your publications. Applications with the subject heading "CM 16 PD" should be sent via email to: personal(a)cbs.mpg.de. Closing date for applications is the 12th June 2016. Informal enquiries regarding the post should be directed to: Prof. Dr. Katharina von Kriegstein (kriegstein(a)cbs.mpg.de) For more information about the groups see: Prof. Katharina von Kriegstein: http://www.cbs.mpg.de/independent-research-groups/human-communication Prof. Stefan Kiebel: https://tu-dresden.de/die_tu_dresden/fakultaeten/fakultaet_mathematik_und_n… A link to the position description is available here: http://www.cbs.mpg.de/454795/job_full_offer_10498685?c=7390 The MPI-CBS is an equal opportunities employer, committed to the advancement of individuals without regard to ethnicity, religion, gender, or disability. --- Katharina von Kriegstein Max Planck Research Group Leader Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Stephanstr. 1A, 04103 Leipzig, Germany Professor of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience Humboldt University of Berlin Rudower Chaussee 18, 12489 Berlin, Germany Phone +49 (0) 341-9940-2476 Fax +49 (0) 341-9940-2448 http://www.cbs.mpg.de/independent-research-groups/human-communication

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CFP ==> AIPR2016 [IEEE] - Poland - September
by Grace Allas May 12, 2016

May 12, 2016

*** CALL FOR PAPERS *** All registered papers will be submitted to IEEE for potential inclusion to IEEE Xplore The Third International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Pattern Recognition (AIPR2016) Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland September 19-21, 2016 http://sdiwc.net/conferences/aipr2016/ IMPORTANT DATES Submission Deadline : Open from now until August 19, 2016 Notification of Acceptance : 4-7 weeks from the submission date Camera Ready Submission : Open from now until September 09, 2016 Registration Deadline : Open from now until September 09, 2016 --------------------------------------------------- RESEARCH TOPICS ARE NOT LIMITED TO: • Agent-based Systems • AI and Evolutionary Algorithms • Ant Colony Optimization • Approximate Reasoning • Artificial Immune Systems • Artificial Intelligence in Modeling and Simulation • Artificial Intelligence in Scheduling and Optimization • Artificial Life • Automated Problem Solving • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology • Biometric Authentication • Brain-machine Interfaces • Camera Networks and Vision • Case Studies • Cognitive Systems and Applications • Collective Intelligence • Computer Vision • Data Mining • Decision Support Systems • Differential Evolution • Distributed AI Systems and Architectures • Emerging Technologies • Evolutionary Data Mining • Evolutionary Design • Evolutionary Scheduling • Expert Systems • Fuzzy Computing with Words • Fuzzy Control and Intelligent Systems • Fuzzy Decision Making and Decision Support Systems • Fuzzy Logic and Fuzzy Set Theory • Fuzzy Optimization and design • Fuzzy Pattern Recognition • Fuzzy Systems for Robotics • Game Theory • Hardware Implementations • Heuristic Searching Methods • Integration of AI With Other Technologies • Intelligent Agents • Intelligent Data Mining and Farming • Intelligent Databases • Intelligent Information Systems • Intelligent Networks • Intelligent Tutoring Systems • Intelligent User Interface • Intelligent Web-based Business • Knowledge Engineering • Knowledge Networks and Management • Knowledge-based Recognition • Knowledge-intensive Problem Solving Techniques • Machine Learning • Modeling and Identification • Molecular and Quantum Computing • Motion and Tracking Algorithms and Orientation Estimation • Multi-agent Systems • Multimedia Systems and Applications • Natural Language Processing • Neural Network Theory, Architectures and Applications • Novel Noise Reduction Algorithms • Particle Swarm Optimization • Printing Technologies • Robotics and Related Fields • Rough Sets and Rough Data Analysis • Segmentation Techniques • Signal and Speech Processing • Social Impact of AI • Software Tools for AI • Speech Understanding • Structural and Syntactic Pattern Recognition • Supervised and Unsupervised Learning • Type-2 Fuzzy Logic • Various Applications • Watermarking Methods and Protection • Web Intelligence ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ All the registered papers will be submitted to IEEE for potential inclusion to IEEE Xplore as well as other Abstracting and Indexing (A&I) databases. Paper Submission: http://sdiwc.net/conferences/aipr2016/openconf/openconf.php Write us for more details: aipr16(a)diwc.net NOTE: Please see other co-conferences: - The Third International Conference on Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Education Technologies (CSCEET2016) http://sdiwc.net/conferences/csceet2016/ - The International Conference Numerical Methods and Applied Mathematics (NMAM2016) http://sdiwc.net/conferences/nmam2016/ ---------------------------------------

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