- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Grenoble Neurotech School 2025 (Aussois, May 11-16, 2025) : Registration is now open

by Blaise Yvert

Dear colleagues, Following the success of the Neurotech School held in Aussois in April 2024 (https://neurotechschool.sciencesconf.org/) we are pleased to announce that the next edition will take place at the same location from May 11 to May 16, 2025. Registration is now open at the following link : https://neurotech2025.sciencesconf.org/ As last year, the number of available seats will be limited. For any question, feel free to contact Salma Mezzi in cc of this message Looking forward your participation and welcoming you in Aussois Kind regards, Blaise for the local organizing committee.

March 20, 2025

Looking for Feedback: Neurosimulation Chatbot 🧠💡

by Tim Brauer

Dear all, Over the past few months, I’ve been working on a project related to non-invasive brain stimulation for well-being. In the process, I explored various simulation tools like The Virtual Brain, Brian2, and NEST. However, I quickly found that setting up installations, models, and parameters often took more time than actual scientific exploration. To simplify this, I built a chatbot that runs neurosimulation scenarios in the background. It’s still in an early stage, and I’d love to get your feedback! 👉 You can try it out here: neuropilot.chat<https://neuropilot.chat> For example, you can ask it to simulate the effects of a psychedelic experience on neural activity—it will run the simulation using Brian2 and deliver a report with the results. I’d love to hear your thoughts: * How accurate and useful are the simulation results for your research questions? * Where could this tool fit into your work (or not)? * What worked smoothly, and what didn’t? If you’re interested, I’d really appreciate any feedback to improve this tool for the computational neuroscience community. Thanks in advance! Best, Tim

March 19, 2025

SIMONS-BALSEIRO POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS

by German Mato

The Balseiro Institute, located in Bariloche, Argentina, invites applications for 6 postdoctoral positions, funded by the Simons Foundation through the Targeted Grants to Institutes program. The positions are open to candidates in all areas of theoretical physics, broadly defined, including condensed matter physics, high energy physics, and complex systems. Appointments will begin in September 2025, with a duration of two years, with possible extensions to one more year. The stipend, free of taxes, will be approximately USD 2,000 per month. Successful candidates should have expertise in one or more areas of theoretical physics; candidates working at the intersections of fields are also encouraged to apply. The selected postdoctoral scholars will work in collaboration with members of the theoretical physics groups at Balseiro Institute (see details below). Applications should include a CV, a statement of research interests that identifies the preferred area(s) from the list below, a list of publications, and a minimum of two recommendation letters. The application deadline is April 10, 2025, and the results will be announced by April 30, 2025. The application materials should be sent to simons(a)ib.edu.ar. For further information please contact simons(a)ib.edu.ar. Theoretical Physics Groups at Balseiro Institute The postdoctoral scholars will have the opportunity to collaborate with the following groups and researchers. Condensed Matter Physics The research activities carried out by this group include the description of topological phases of matter, strongly correlated electron systems, driven quantum systems and non-equilibrium statistical phenomena such as yielding and depinning. Members of the group: A. Aligia, L. Arrachea, C. Balseiro, P. S. Cornaglia, D. Dominguez, J. I. Facio, E. Ferrero, D. Garcia, K. Hallberg, A. Hernandez Nieves, E. Jagla, A. Kolton, C. Proetto, M. J. Sanchez, G. Usaj, C. Ventura. Particles and Fields The group’s main focus is to understand the fundamental constituents of matter and their interactions, encompassing research in high-energy physics, astrophysics, cosmology, quantum field theory, string theory, and quantum information theory. Members of the group: G. Aldazabal, I. Allekotte, H. Casini, L. Da Rold, C. Fosco, G. Golup, M. Huerta, J. Magán, F.D. Mazzitelli, S. Mollerach, E. Roulet, G. Torroba, R. Trinchero. More information: webpage of the group Complex Systems The research carried out by this group includes theoretical research on complex systems. The main lines of research are the following: Complex and out-of-equilibrium systems (Collective dynamics, Self-organization, Synchronization, Stochastic processes, Critical phenomena, Open quantum systems), Mathematical biology (Dynamics of ecosystems, Animal movement, Epidemic processes, Forest fires, Biological evolution, Modeling based on Machine Learning and Neural Networks), Socio-economic systems (Dynamics of social networks, Wealth distribution, financial markets, Opinion formation) Members of the group: G. Abramson, S. Bouzat, A. Budini, M. Kuperman, L. Kazimierski, F. Laguna, K. Laneri, D. Schneider, D. Zanette. -- ============================================================ German Mato Centro Atomico Bariloche 8400 S. C. de Bariloche Rio Negro ARGENTINA Phone: +54 294 4445100 E-mail: german.mato(a)ib.edu.ar <mailto:german.mato@ib.edu.ar> ============================================================

March 17, 2025

Cambridge Open Lab Workshop - Electronics for neuroscience: from basics to setup development

by Mateusz Kostecki

Hello! We are pleased to announce the next *Cambridge Open Lab Workshop*, organized with support from FENS. A solid understanding of electronics is essential for neuroscientists. It helps in understanding electrophysiological setups, the mechanisms of action potentials, and the development of experimental setups—from selecting components and synchronizing data streams to implementing closed-loop control systems. This workshop will provide both theoretical and practical training in electronics. It will cover fundamental concepts such as voltages and currents, explore components like capacitors, transistors, and amplifiers, and introduce the use of microcontrollers in neuroscientific experiments. *Workshop Details:* - *Location:* Sheringham, Norfolk - *Dates:* May 4th – 8th - *Fee:* £375 (includes accommodation and food) - *Funding:* Travel grants and fee waivers are available—please indicate your need in the application form. Apply here: *https://nenckiopenlab.org/electronics-cam/ <https://nenckiopenlab.org/electronics-cam/>* *Application deadline:* April 1st We look forward to your application. Best regards, Best, Mateusz Kostecki -- --- Mateusz Kostecki PhD Student Knapska Laboratory Nencki Institute 02-093 Warsaw, Pasteura 3, Poland https://twitter.com/mtkostecki https://evolvingbehavior.blog/

March 17, 2025

Brain Connectivity Workshop (BCW) 2025 - earlybird registration extended!

by James Roberts

Brain Connectivity Workshop (BCW) 2025 Founded in 2002, the Brain Connectivity Workshop (BCW) is an annual international meeting for in-depth discussions of all aspects of brain connectivity research. See past events here<https://brain-connectivity-workshop.org/>. By bringing together experts in computational neuroscience, neuroscience methodology and experimental neuroscience, it aims to improve the understanding of the relationship between anatomical connectivity, brain dynamics and cognitive function. These workshops have a unique format, featuring only short presentations (15 minutes, 3 slides), followed by 45 minutes of intense discussion. This year, join us on the beautiful Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), Queensland, Australia. BCW will be held on the days before this year's OHBM Annual Meeting in Brisbane. Date: 20th - 22nd June 2025 (Welcome drinks on Friday 20th June from 4:00PM) Venue: Point Lookout Community Hall, East Coast Road, Point Lookout Accommodation: Allure Stradbroke Resort, 43 - 57 East Coast Road, Point Lookout Register: https://qimrberghofer.eventsair.com/brain-connectivity-workshop-2025/regist… Confirmed speakers: Petra Ritter (Charitè, Berlin) - presenting the 2025 Rolf Kötter lecture Melanie Boly (University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA) Joana Cabral (University of Minho, Braga, Portugal) Martijn van den Heuvel (Vrije Universiteit and VU Medical Center, Amsterdam) Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille) James Pang (Monash University, Melbourne, Australia) Richa Phogat (University of Newcastle, Australia) Maria Giulia Preti (EPFL, Geneva) Marc Tittgemeyer (Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Cologne) Changsong Zhou (Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong) Early Bird Registration *EXTENDED* By 11:59PM AEST, 1 April 2025 AUD $945.00 including accommodation (~USD $595) Standard Registration By 11:59PM AEST, 15 April 2025 AUD $1,045.00 including accommodation (~USD $660) Registration includes: - Access to all sessions including Welcome drinks on Friday 20th June from 4:00pm - Two (2) nights accommodation and buffet breakfast at Allure Stradbroke Resort - Ferries to/from the island (departing from the Brisbane suburb of Cleveland) and transfers to/from the accommodation Conference organisers: James Roberts, QIMR Berghofer Luca Cocchi, QIMR Berghofer Michael Breakspear, University of Newcastle Richa Phogat, University of Newcastle

March 17, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 11:00 am EDT| Marcelo Rozenberg, CNRS, Paris

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Marcelo Rozenberg CNRS, Paris Dynamics of neural motifs realized with a minimal memristive neuro-synaptic unit The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Note that the USA moved to Summer time. * *On Wednesday, March 19, 11am EDT = 4 pm CET = 3 pm GMT* *Abstract: *The use of electronic circuits to model neural systems goes back to C. Mead and is present in models, from leaky-integrate-and-fire to Hodking-Huxley. Simulating neural network with analog hardware is attractive: it allows to implement neurocomputations in real time without discretization approximations, it has perfect simulation-time scaling with system size, and it provides ready-to-deploy neuromorphic circuit for applications. There are implementations in CMOS technology, however, they are complex, require sophisticated fabrication facilities and, most important, suffer from significant device mismatch. In a radically different approach, based on the concept of memristors, we introduce a neuro-synaptic circuit of unprecedented simplicity, with readily available cheap off-the-shelf electronic components, that can quantitatively reproduce textbook theoretical neuron and synaptic current models. Our neuron circuits can avoid the mismatch problem and are easily tuneable at bio-compatible time-scales. We first introduce a voltage-gated conductance bursting neuron model that produces spike traces that bare striking similarity to experimental recordings. We then introduce synaptic current circuits and show the modularity of our method implementing neurocomputing primitives of basic network motifs, including CPGs. With this "theoretical hardware" approach we show: (i) that neuron adaptation and self-excitation can be viewed as a self-consistent dynamical problem; (ii) that a dynamical memory can be minimally implemented with a single recursive spiking neuron; (iii) that an adaptive membrane current reveals a connection between bursting and the driven harmonic oscillator, perhaps pointing to a neural correlate of the pendular limb motion. Finally we discuss the limitation of the approach to networks of mid-size and its potential application for brain-machine-interfaces, robotics and AI. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ -- *Il n'y a ni obligation ni pression à traiter ou répondre à ce mail en dehors des heures de travail* "В каждой шутке есть доля шутки" 'Life is good ..' (Carl van Vreeswijk, 1962-2022) --------------------------------------- David Hansel Directeur de Recherche au CNRS Co-Group leader Cerebral Dynamics Plasticity and Learning lab., CNRS 45 rue des Saints Peres 75270 Paris Cedex 06 Tel (Cell): +33 607508403 - Fax (33).1.49.27.90.62 *CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY NOTICE:* *This message and the documents that might be attached, are addressed exclusively to their(s) recipient(s) and may contain privileged or confidential information. The access to this information by people other than those designated is not authorized. If you are not the indicated recipient, you are notified that the use, disclosure and / or copying without authorization is prohibited under current legislation. If you have received this message in error, please kindly inform the sender immediately and proceed to its destruction.*

March 16, 2025

NEST Conference 2025 – registration and call for contributions are open

by Hans Ekkehard Plesser

Dear colleagues, The NEST Initiative is excited to invite everyone interested in Neural Simulation Technology and the NEST Simulator to the NEST Conference 2025. The NEST Conference provides an opportunity for the NEST Community to meet, exchange success stories, swap advice, learn about current developments in and around NEST spiking network simulation and its application. Take the opportunity to advance your skills in using NEST at our hands-on workshops! We explicitly encourage young scientists to participate in the conference! This year's conference will again take place as a virtual conference on Tuesday/Wednesday 17/18 June 2025. We are delighted to welcome * Marja-Leena Linne, Tampere University, Finland * Daniela Gandolfi, Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Italy * Barna Zajzon, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany * as keynote speakers at the conference. Registration and submission of contributions are now open! We are inviting contributions to the conference, including talks, "posters" and workshops on specific topics. Please register and submit your contribution(s) via the conference website https://nest-simulator.org/conference Important dates 15 April 2025 - Deadline for submission of contributions 25 April 2025 - Deadline for NEST Initiative membership applications eligible for fee reduction 09 May 2025 - Notification of acceptance 11 June 2025 - Registration deadline 17 June 2025 - NEST Conference 2025 starts We are looking forward to seeing you all in June! Hans Ekkehard Plesser and the conference organizing committee -- Prof. Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser Research Committee Chair, Faculty of Science and Technology Head, Department of Data Science Department of Data Science Faculty of Science and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no<mailto:hans.ekkehard.plesser@nmbu.no> Home http://arken.nmbu.no/~plesser

March 16, 2025

Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour 2025. Application deadline April 15th, 2025

by Ahmed El Hady

*Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour 2025* *Konstanz, Germany * *Deadline to apply: April 15th, 2025* ** The Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour (KSCB) <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/about/> will take place between /21st July 2025 – 8th August 2025/ at the Cluster of Excellence Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour (CASCB) at the University of Konstanz <https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/>. Uni Konstanz is a University of Excellence and ranked #1 young university in Germany with “Collective Behaviour" <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/collective-behaviour/> as one of five research foci. Konstanz <https://www.konstanz.de/start> is a vibrant, small city located on the border between Germany and Switzerland, on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance). Over three weeks, students will delve deeply into the topic of collective behaviour with lectures, hands-on tutorials, and projects, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. The school faculty will cover collective behaviours across a variety of species from cells, worms, drosophila, fish to non – human primates and human. A set of tutorials delving into state-of-the-art quantitative methods used to study collective behaviour will complement the lectures. At the end of the school, students will work on independent projects guided by our resident faculty. Accommodation will be provided and paid by the organizers. A limited number of travel grants will be provided and a registration fee will be due (500 Euros) once the student is admitted to the Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour. The registration fee will be waived to those coming from underrepresented minorities and those in need of financial support. The submission of applications for the second Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour was open until April 15, 2025. We will inform you on May 15, 2025 whether your application was successful For further information and application, visit our website: _https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/application-procedure/ <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/application-procedure/> _ *KSCB 2025 faculty : * ·Iain Couzin ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) ·Peter Dayan ( Max Planck Institute of Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen) ·Ilya Nemenman ( Emory University , USA) ·Yonatan Loewenstein ( Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel) ·Aneta Koseska ( Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology of Behavior, Bonn) ·Francesco Ginelli ( Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Italy) ·Thejasvi Ravindra Beleyur ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz) ·Liang Li ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz) ·Andreagiovanni Reina ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz) ·Einat Couzin-Fuchs ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz ) ·Ofer Feinermann ( Weizmann Institute of Sciences, Israel) ·Naama Brenner ( Israel Institute of Technology, Israel) ·Ariana Strandburg-Peshkin ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) ·Wataru Toyokawa (Riken Center for Brain Science in Tokyo). ·Raphaela Heesen ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz) ·Caroline Schuppli ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) . Dan Gorbonos ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz) . Michael Chimento ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz). *Contact: **ahmed.el-hady(a)uni-konstanz.de <mailto:ahmed.el-hady@uni-konstanz.de> * All the best regards, Ahmed El Hady On behalf of the KSCB organizational committee Dr. Ahmed El Hady Principal Investigator Cluster for Advanced Study of Collective Behavior, University of Konstanz Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz Room ZT 907 Postbox 687 Tel.: +49 7531 88-4742

March 14, 2025

Two PhD/Postdoc positions in computational neuroscience/machine learning/bioinformatics in Tübingen

by Philipp Berens

The Department of Data Science (Philipp Berens) at the Hertie Institute for AI in Brain Health (Hertie AI, https://hertie.ai/) part of the Medical Faculty of the Eberhard Karls University in Tübingen, has open positions for Two Postdoctoral Researchers or PhD students (f/m/d) in computational neuroscience / bioinformatics / machine learning for the following topics: - Machine learning models for longitudinal spatial transcriptomics data acquired in the retina during disease and aging - Deep reinforcement learning for studying efficient coding in the visual system Both positions are initially for 3 years with the possibility of extension and can either be filled with a postdoctoral research or a PhD student. To apply, please go to: https://jobs.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/Job/5996/Postdoctoral-Researcher-or-P… https://jobs.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/Job/5995/Postdoctoral-Researcher-or-P… Looking forward to your applications, Philipp -- Professor of Data Science, Director Hertie Institute for AI in Brain Health Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen www.hertie.ai

March 13, 2025

[Meetings] Deadline extension - IEEE Int. Conf. Development and Learning (ICDL) 2025

by Matej Hoffmann

* Dear colleagues, Due to multiple requests, we are happy to grant a two-week extension of the submission deadline for the regular paper submissions and the workshop and tutorial proposal submission. Full papers:March 28, 2025. Workshop and tutorial proposals—deadline:March 28, 2025. We would also like to draw your attention to the template which we have updated. Please kindly use this one: https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php <https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php>. If you have already submitted, you will be able to update it also during the camera-ready submission stage. We are also happy to announce that the BabyBot and BabyObserve Challenge winners will receive a prize of 150$, sponsored by the IEEE RAS TC Cognitive Robotics. Travel grants are available through IEEE CIS - see https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/travel-grants/ <https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/travel-grants/>. ----------------------------------- CfP IEEE ICDL 2025 ----------------------------------- https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/ <https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/> 16–19 September 2025 in Prague; Czechia 2025 IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning (ICDL) We invite submissions to explore, extend, and consolidate the interdisciplinary boundaries of this exciting research field. In addition to the usual paper submission-selection process, we announce two Challenges: the BabyBot Challenge that will award computational models that capture core aspects of specific psychology experiments and (new!!) BabyObserve Challenge that will foster the community’s discoveries in research related to the development of cognition and learning and go beyond what is currently in focus. Submissions that address both challenges at the same time are also welcome. There is a prize of 150$ for the winners of the challenges! ----------------------------------- Important Deadlines ----------------------------------- Contributed papers (6–8 pages)—extended deadline: March 28, 2025. Workshop and tutorial proposals—extended deadline: March 28, 2025. Journal Track—deadline: April 1, 2025. Late-breaking results (1-page abstracts)—deadline: June 13, 2025. ----------------------------------- Speakers ----------------------------------- Jeff Krichmar (University of California, Irvine, USA) Masako Myowa-Yamakoshi (Kyoto University, Japan) Giulio Sandini (IIT Genoa, Italy) Tilbe Göksun (Koç University, Turkey) Josef Šivic (CIIRC, CTU in Prague, Czechia) ----------------------------------- Topics ----------------------------------- ICDL is a unique conference gathering researchers from both computational science (including robotics, AI, cognitive architecture) and developmental studies (psychology, linguistics, anthropology, education, philosophy) for a fertile exchange sharing ideas, perspectives, knowledge, research findings on how humans and animals develop sensing, reasoning and actions, including interactive ecologies and how these capabilities can be implemented in computing (embodied) systems. This approach goes hand in hand with the goal of both understanding human and animal development and how this can be applied to improve future intelligent technology including all kinds of artificial systems that will be in close interaction with humans. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to): – general principles and theories of development and learning; – embodied learning in biological systems and robots; – development of skills in biological systems and robots; – developmental stages and sensitive periods; – architectures for cognitive development and life-long learning; – emergence of body knowledge and affordance perception; – learning control of body movement; – (models of) curiosity, intrinsic motivations, exploration, play and active learning; – (models for) prediction, planning and problem solving; – developmentally-inspired machine learning; – applications of machine learning to human and animal development; – emotional development and the role of emotion in learning; – emergence of verbal and nonverbal communication; – metacognitive skills and the role of metacognitive learning and explicit communication; – (models of) human–human and human–system interaction; – epistemological foundations and philosophical issues; – the relationship between evolution and development; – ethics in modeling learning and development. ----------------------------------- Submission ----------------------------------- We accept four types of research submissions. The submissions are available through the PaperPlaza (https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/scripts/start.pl <https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/scripts/start.pl>) system. Detailed instructions are at https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/submission/ <https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/submission/>. Full 6-page paper submissions (up to 2 extra pages with additional charge)—deadline:March 28, 2025. Papers of up to 6 pages in IEEE double column format will undergo peer-review, and accepted and presented submissions will be included in the conference proceedings published by IEEE Xplore. Up to two extra pages are acceptable for a publication fee of $100 per page. Accepted papers will be invited for presentation either in oral or poster format Please make use of the template provided at https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php <https://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php> Workshop and tutorial proposals—deadline:March 28, 2025. Workshops proposals can be submitted for one-day or half-day-workshop that will take place on the first day of the conference. The proposals should motivate the topic and provide a schedule. Journal-track posters—deadline:April 1, 2025. Journal track poster submissions must be about a journal paper that has been published the March 2024 – March 2025 period (online ahead of print is fine) on a topic relevant to the conference. Late-breaking posters with 1-page abstract—deadline: June 13, 2025. To encourage discussion of late-breaking results or for work that is not sufficiently mature for a full paper, we will accept 1-page abstracts. These submissions will not be included in the conference proceedings. Accepted abstracts will be presented during the poster session. ----------------------------------- BabyBot Challenge Paper Award ----------------------------------- Babybot Challenge papers are expected to establish a strong link between developmental psychology and robotics and/or computational modeling. Submissions will be judged by the following criteria: – How well does the computational model (e.g., an artificial system, which can be a robot, artificial system, or a software agent) represent the particular features of the experimental research addressed. – How closely the performance of the model replicates the experimental findings and how parsimonious is the model. – How explicit the model is about cognitive mechanisms and the – The extent of the novel insights or explanations generated by the model, and importantly whether the model make interesting and testable predictions. We encourage the authors to tag their submission for “Babybot Challenge” award during contributed paper submission, which would indicate that there is significant content that puts the paper in the spotlight of “Babybot Challenge”. Prize for winner: 150 $. ----------------------------------- BabyObserve Challenge Paper Award ----------------------------------- This Challenge is new, and its intention is to foster the community’s discoveries in research related to the development of cognition and learning that go beyond what is currently in focus. BabyObserve Challenge papers are expected to introduce novel or “edge case” phenomena to the ICDL community from observations of child development, but also related mechanisms, interplays of skills, properties of (environmental and / or social) ecologies that promote it. Observations can result in quantitative or qualitative research that is further described in the paper. Submissions will be judged by the following criteria: – How innovative is the phenomenon and why it is important for the ICDL community – How well is the phenomenon described to inspire computational models – How well is the phenomenon theoretically grounded or linked to the existing literature We encourage the authors to tag their submission for “BabyObserve Challenge” award during contributed paper submission, which would indicate that there is significant content that puts the paper in the spotlight of “BabyObserve Challenge”. Prize for winner: 150 $. General chair: Matej Hoffmann Program chairs: Alessandra Sciutti, Emre Ugur, Katharina J. Rohlfing * -- Matej Hoffmann, PhD Associate Professor Department of Cybernetics Faculty of Electrical Engineering Czech Technical University in Prague Karlovo namesti 13 121 35 Praha 2, Czech Republic +420 224 357 387 https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home https://cyber.felk.cvut.cz/humanoids IEEE ICDL 2025 General Chairhttps://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/

March 13, 2025

Postdoctoral fellowships at the Neuromathematics Center in Sao Paulo State, Brazil

by Antonio Roque

The Research, Innovation and Dissemination Center for Neuromathematics (NeuroMat), hosted by the University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil, and funded by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP), is offering two post-doctoral fellowships for recent PhDs with outstanding research potential. The fellowship will involve collaborations with research teams and laboratories associated with NeuroMat, strictly related to ongoing research lines developed by NeuroMat. For more details about the ongoing research lines of NeuroMat, please visit our website. The project may be developed at the laboratories of USP, campuses of São Paulo or Ribeirão Preto, or at UNICAMP, Campinas, in person. We seek candidates capable of developing independent research in one of the research lines below. 1. Stochastic modeling of neurobiological data. Candidates must have a strong background in probability theory with emphasis on stochastic processes. 2. Development of new statistical methods for neurobiological data. Candidates must have a strong background in statistics and data analysis and knowledge of computer programming. 3. Acquisition, processing, and quantitative analysis of neurobiological data. Candidates must have a strong background in neuroscience with previous experience in neurophysiological data acquisition, processing and analysis, and knowledge of computer programming. 4. Instrumentation development associated with brain stimuli. Candidates must have a strong background in electronic instrumentation, robotics, programing, and safety in medical equipment. The fellowship is competitive at an international level, and fellows benefit from extra funds for travel and research expenses plus limited support for relocation expenses. Application Instructions: Applicants should complete and submit the application form <https://neuromat.numec.prp.usp.br/postdoc/new/>. The following documents and information are requested (please see the form for further details): - Summary of the CV, in the format required by FAPESP (see fapesp.br/en/6351for instructions); - List of publications, with links to those available online. - A summary of the research plan for the next year, up to 5 pages in length. This document must explicitly state for which of the four research lines the candidate is applying. It should also address how this research plan fits within the framework of the NeuroMat research program. It is strongly recommended that candidates visit the webpage of the project, NeuroMat research program <https://neuromat.numec.prp.usp.br/scientific-project/>, consult the list of publications and contact potential supervisors, who are principal or co-principal investigators participating in the NeuroMat project, to align the research proposal with the goals of the project. - Pointers to other research related output, such as software, web pages, and so forth. Candidates should be willing to send copies of publications, if requested. - Any further information deemed relevant to the application. In addition to the above, we require at least two recommendation letters. Those should be emailed by the recommenders directly to postdoc-appl(a)numec.prp.usp.br. Timetable: Candidates are encouraged to apply at their earliest convenience until the deadline of March 31, 2025. Appointment is expected to start by May 2025. The initial period of the position lasts for 12 months, with possible renewals to up to the end of the project, July 31, 2026. This opportunity is open to candidates of any nationality. The selected candidates will be awarded FAPESP Postdoctoral fellowships in the amount of R$ 12,000,00 monthly plus fringe benefits and a research contingency fund, equivalent to 15% of the annual value of the fellowship, which should be spent on items directly related to the research activity. More details on FAPESP's postdoctoral fellowships are available at: https://fapesp.br/en/postdoc. -- Antonio C. Roque Professor Associado Departamento de Fisica FFCLRP, Universidade de Sao Paulo 14040-901 Ribeirao Preto-SP Brazil - Brasil antonior(a)usp.br <antonior(a)ffclrp.usp.br> aroquesilva(a)gmail.com www.sisne.org ORCID: 0000-0003-1260-4840 <https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1260-4840> ResearcherID: C-2316-2011 <http://www.webofscience.com/wos/author/record/C-2316-2011> Google Scholar: GqHWF74AAAAJ <http://scholar.google.com.br/citations?user=GqHWF74AAAAJ> CV Lattes: 4609096963207702 <http://lattes.cnpq.br/4609096963207702>

March 13, 2025

18th Granada Seminar Announcement

by Prof. Dr. Joaquín J. Torres

Dear Colleague, You are cordially invited to participate in the 18th Granada Seminar on Computational and Statistical Physics, taking place this September 15-19, 2025, focus on: “New Tools and Methods for Complex Systems Research: From Molecules to Living and Intelligent Systems” This seminar is organized by the Institute Carlos I for Theoretical and Computational Physics at the University of Granada and will be celebrate in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Granada. Up-to-date information regarding abstract submissions, grants, accommodation, program details, and more can be found at: https://granadaseminar.com Confirmed Speakers: We are pleased to announce a distinguished lineup of speakers, including: Herbert Levine (Northeastern University) Daniele Marinazzo (Ghent University) Pedro Mediano (Imperial College London) Miguel Ángel Muñoz (University of Granada) Fernando Rosas (Sussex University) Edina Rosta (University College London) Roberta Zambrini (University of the Balearic Islands) Additional talks and poster presentations will be selected from submitted abstracts. Important Dates & Registration Fees: Abstract submission deadline: June 15, 2025 Acceptance notifications: July 10, 2025 Registration Fees: Regular registration: Early: €420 (by July 31) Late: €450 (by August 31) Student registration: Early: €300 (by July 31) Late: €330 (by August 31) In all cases the registration fee includes: Attendance to the working sessions and documentation, certificate of attendance, coffee breaks, welcome cocktail, and gala dinner. Please follow the link below for direct registration: https://granadaseminar.com/index.php/join-granada-seminar/registration/ We look forward to welcoming you to Granada this September! Best regards, Joaquin J. Torres Director of the Granada Seminar Institute Carlos I for Theoretical and Computational Physics University of Granada - 18071, Spain

March 12, 2025

6 Available PhD Positions at the Intersection of Psychology, AI, and Computer Science

by Amir Aly

*Dear All, * **Apologies for cross-posting** *Applications are invited for three-year PhD studentships at the University of Plymouth, UK. * *The studentships will start on Wednesday 1 October 2025.* *The closing date for applications is Friday 9 May 2025 (midnight, UK time).* A list of projects can be found below. It is essential that candidates discuss their proposal/plans with their intended supervisor(s), prior to writing their proposal and submitting an application. The school can only consider PhD research proposals that have the support of a supervisor (see required documents). ------------------------------------------------- *1- AI-Based Analysis of Voice Biomarkers in Neurodevelopmental Disorders* This interdisciplinary PhD project will harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) methodologies to analyse vocal patterns within clinical populations, specifically targeting Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The project aims to develop innovative diagnostic models, such as deep learning models, that accurately identify and differentiate unique vocal characteristics to each disorder utilising extensive and varied datasets of autistic, ADHD and neurotypical people, enhancing our understanding and diagnostic capabilities for these conditions. Candidates should have a basic knowledge in AI and machine learning techniques, especially those applicable to audio processing and speech analysis. While knowledge of psychological or neurological principles is advantageous, it is not compulsory. The candidate will be part of a collaboration between Clinical Psychology and Computer Science, offering a unique chance to pioneer in the application of AI to clinical diagnostics. This interdisciplinary effort aims to push the boundaries of how machine learning can improve understanding and treatment strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders. *- Contact: Dr. Gray Atherton*, gray.atherton(a)plymouth.ac.uk *2- Virtual Reality Training for Spatial Familiarity with Autistic Individuals* This PhD project aims to develop a virtual reality (VR) training program to help autistic individuals navigate unfamiliar spaces with reduced anxiety as well as explore new imaginary spaces that can build confidence. Utilising VR technology, the project will recreate common environments to allow participants to engage with these spaces in a safe and controlled setting. The use of a VE2 walking treadmill will intensify the realism of the experience, enabling participants to physically walk through these virtual spaces, thereby improving spatial familiarity and comfort. Candidates are expected to have a foundational understanding of VR programming, including expertise in Unity. Skills in integrating sophisticated sensory technologies such as eye-tracking and face recognition are appreciated, as they will be used to tailor and adapt scenarios based on real-time user reactions and interactions. This role calls for a blend of technical acumen and creative problem-solving, offering a chance to pioneer VR applications that extend beyond entertainment into therapeutic settings. This interdisciplinary initiative bridges the gap between Clinical Psychology and Computer Science, offering candidates an opportunity to pioneer methods that could significantly advance therapeutic practices for neurodevelopmental disorders. *- Contact: Dr. Liam Cross*, liam.cross(a)plymouth.ac.uk *3- Enhancing Social Interaction for Autistic Individuals through Anthropomorphic Augmented Reality * This PhD project seeks to explore how autistic individuals often show a preference for interacting with non-human entities such as animals, cartoons, and robots, possibly due to the simpler social cues and lack of negative biases associated with human faces. Leveraging these insights, the project will develop an augmented reality (AR) application designed to overlay human faces with non-human characteristics, thereby enhancing comfort, social attention, and engagement among autistic participants. We are seeking a PhD candidate proficient in AR technologies, with hands-on experience in platforms like Hololens, and a good foundation in computer science. The successful candidate will be driven by a desire to apply cutting-edge AR solutions to real-world challenges in education and healthcare settings. The candidate will engage in developing complex AR interfaces and utilise user-centred design principles to create applications that significantly improve social interactions for autistic individuals. Familiarity with the psychological aspects of autism will be crucial in customizing the technology to meet user needs effectively. *- Contact: Dr. Gray Atherton*, gray.atherton(a)plymouth.ac.uk *4-* *Examining Cohesion and Authoritarianism through Synchronised VR Interactions* This project seeks to explore how moving in synchrony with others within a virtual reality (VR) environment influences social behaviour, enhancing cohesion and potentially promoting obedient tendencies. The research will employ VR to simulate scenarios where participants can engage in synchronized activities, studying the psychological effects of these interactions. These effects have historical significance in contexts such as war, riots, an other scenarios. The project will manipulate environmental factors, virtual agents, and reward systems to observe how these controlled variables influence behaviours related to conformity and personal control. We are looking for a PhD candidate with a good experience in VR programming, tools and platforms, interested in using this technology to probe the complex dynamics of human behaviour and applying their technical skills to investigate social psychological phenomena. This interdisciplinary initiative provides a unique opportunity to explore how synchronized movements in virtual environments can shape social behaviours and influence group dynamics, enhancing our understanding of technology's role in social cohesion and control. *- Contact: Dr. Liam Cross*, liam.cross(a)plymouth.ac.uk *5*- *Pure Fantasy: Harnessing VR to Explore and Enhance the Ideal Self in Autistic Individuals* This innovative project taps into the enduring popularity of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), particularly within the autism community, to explore and enhance self-concept through immersive virtual reality (VR). D&D has long served as a valuable tool for autistic individuals to experiment with their identities and improve social skills. Our project aims to create a groundbreaking VR D&D experience that allows players to design avatars embodying traits they aspire to develop or accentuate. Leveraging the Proteus effect, which suggests that the characteristics of an avatar can influence a user’s behaviour, this study will observe how players navigate complex social interactions and quests within a richly detailed virtual world. Players will physically navigate this world using VE2 treadmills, enhancing the immersion and physicality of the experience. We seek a PhD candidate with good skills in VR development, eager to push the boundaries of what VR can achieve in psychological and therapeutic contexts. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with the Computer Sciences department at the University of Plymouth to refine VR paradigms and should possess an interest in the psychological aspects of VR immersion, specifically how it relates to behaviour change and self-concept in special populations. This interdisciplinary initiative offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of technology, psychology, and role-playing games, aiming to provide meaningful insights into how virtual experiences can influence real-world behaviour and self-perception. *- Contact: Dr. Gray Atherton*, gray.atherton(a)plymouth.ac.uk *6- Board games for autistic wellbeing * Board games offer educational and social benefits, particularly for neurodiverse players who thrive in structured settings. This project will establish a board gaming hub for neurodiverse adults, partnering with clinical services to combine social engagement with mental health support. There are currently multiple sites and practices in the Devon area and wider UK keen to take part, and the candidate will have good communication and organisational skills commiserate with working across sites and disciplines. Specifically, we seek a candidate with experience in working with clinical populations and a passion for board gaming. This role suits those interested in intervention design, adult social care, and gaming development for special populations. The candidate will be interested in understanding how to adapt board games for individuals with different needs, and how to liase with research teams and clinical health providers to understand how to most effectively deliver an intervention of this nature. This role will involve working in schools and with young people. *- Contact: Dr. Liam Cross*, liam.cross(a)plymouth.ac.uk ---------------------------------------------------- *Eligibility and funding* Applicants should have a first-class honours degree in an appropriate subject and preferably a relevant MSc or MRes qualification. If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum English requirements for the programme, an academic IELTS score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or equivalent. The studentship is supported for three years and includes full home tuition fees plus a stipend of at least £18,655 per annum (2025/26 rate still to be determined). *To apply* To apply, please complete our online application form <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpgtapply.…> for *PhD Psychology *for entry in* October 2025 *and submit the following mandatory documents <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> : - *A research proposal (max 1,000 words). *Your research proposal should contain a short review of relevant literature, research questions/hypotheses, overview of methods, and a time plan (all included in the word count). Your proposal may also include up to one figure (not included in the word count). The proposal should name the suggested supervisor(s) and include a reference list (not included in the word count). Research proposals that exceed the word count will not be considered. - *Personal statement. *Please clearly state that you are applying for a PhD studentship within the School of Psychology and the name of a potential supervisor(s) on the top of your personal statement. - *Supervisor support statement. *Please submit a short statement (signed and dated) from your intended supervisor in which they confirm that they would supervise your PhD project. - *Evidence of up-to-date qualifications.*Certificates and transcripts for masters or bachelor degrees, plus any relevant professional qualifications. - *CV/résumé* - *English proficiency certificate. *Required for non-UK nationals. - *The details of two academic referees.*Please provide names and details on the application form. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me Regards -------------------------------------------- *Dr. Amir Aly*, PhD, FHEA, SIEEE Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Programme Manager of Artificial Intelligence UK and Ireland IEEE RAS Chapter Vice Chair Director of the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS) School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics Room A307 Portland Square, Drake Circus, PL4 8AA University of Plymouth, UK

March 12, 2025

Workshop on AI / ML for the analysis of single-cell spatial transcriptomics 15-17 Oct 2025 Lyon (France)

by Hugues Berry

SAVE THE DATE 15th-17th OCTOBER, 2025 A 2.5 DAY WORKSHOP on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning of the analysis of single-cell spatial transcriptomics, in Lyon, France. https://ai4singlecell.sciencesconf.org/ REGISTRATION (TO OPEN SOON) IS FREE BUT MANDATORY The analysis of data from single-cell, potentially spatial, transcriptomics, increasingly relies on artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) computer tools. Beyond the familiar clustering of single-cells, they promise to offer access to a wide spectrum of far-reaching biological information, including the inference of cell-cell interactions, lineage reconstructions or the 3d spatial organisation of the tissue. The workshop will deliver both general introductions targeting the non-expert biologist who plans to start using these algorithms, and state-of-the-art methodology-oriented talks for a more expert audience. PROGRAM DRAFT Confirmed invited speakers include: Xiang Zhou <https://xiangzhou.github.io/>, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA Per Uhlén <https://ki.se/en/research/research-areas-centres-and-networks/research-grou…>, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden Genevieve Stein O’Brien <https://www.steinobrienlab.org/>, Johns Hopkins University, USA Yvan Saeys, <https://saeyslab.sites.vib.be/en> Ghent University, Belgium Marianna Rapsomaniki <https://www.chuv.ch/en/bdsc/research/our-groups/ai-ml-for-biomedicine>, Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland Laura Cantini <https://research.pasteur.fr/en/member/laura-cantini/>, Pasteur Institute, Paris, France Quentin Blampey <https://github.com/quentinblampey>, Paris-Saclay University, France The program will feature both general introductory talks and expert-level methodology-oriented presentations. As well as live sessions demos of application packages for concrete illustration of use cases! MORE SOON... program updates a call for contributed talks a call for contributed live sessions for package demos registration openning Meanwhile, don't hesitate to contact us at: ai4singlecell(a)sciencesconf.org <https://ai4singlecell.sciencesconf.org/>

March 12, 2025

Exciting PhD & Postdoc Positions at Maastricht University and CNRS Marseille – Join the ERC-Synergy NASCE Project!

by Jolivet, Renaud (MACSBIO)

My colleague Elia Formisano at Maastricht University is advertising several positions. Exciting PhD & Postdoc Positions at Maastricht University and CNRS Marseille – Join the ERC-Synergy NASCE Project! Are you passionate about neuroscience and AI? Do you want to unravel how the human brain makes sense of everyday soundscapes? Join <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABIzWMMB26hKQDKmkAauU86UR27jk8MEaK0> Elia Formisano<https://www.linkedin.com/in/elia-formisano-05731a86/> and <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAAFyNeAB_dTvI-9M7P3WdPYRnzO7c9v5JXY> Bruno L. Giordano<https://www.linkedin.com/in/brungio/> in the ERC-Synergy NASCE project (Natural Auditory SCEnes in Humans and Machines), where we explore the neural computations behind real-world auditory scene analysis (ASA). Our research combines AI, behavioral experiments (both classic and online), neuroimaging (ultra-high-field fMRI, MEG, iEEG), and advanced statistical modeling to develop groundbreaking theories and models of auditory perception. Funded by the European Union (ERC-2024-SyG, NASCE) Why Join NASCE? * Work in a leading, highly collaborative international research environment between Maastricht University, and CNRS/Aix Marseille University. * Contribute to groundbreaking research at the intersection of neuroscience, AI, and cognitive psychology. * Access to state-of-the-art multimodal neuroimaging and AI-based computational modeling. Locations: Maastricht University (The Netherlands) & CNRS/Aix Marseille University (Marseille, France). Start Dates: From April 2025. 1. PhD Position in NeuroAI & Auditory Scene Analysis (Maastricht, NL) Develop brain-inspired deep neural network (DNN) models to simulate human auditory perception. Requirements: MSc in AI, computer science, computational neuroscience, or related field. Strong programming skills (Python, PyTorch/TensorFlow). Full-time PhD contract (4 years). Start Date: April 2025 (preferred). Apply here: https://lnkd.in/esUG6iQY See also: https://lnkd.in/e3FTfhuY 2. Postdoc in NeuroAI & Multimodal Neuroimaging (Maastricht, NL) Develop brain-inspired DNN models to simulate human auditory perception. Create computational methods to integrate DNNs with neuroimaging. Requirements: PhD in computational neuroscience, AI, biomedical engineering, physics, or related field. Experience with deep learning (applications to audio and neuroimaging integration are a plus) Strong programming skills (Python, PyTorch/TensorFlow). Competitive salary (2 years contract + possibility for 2 more years). Start Date: Flexible within 2025. Apply here: https://lnkd.in/eqVgn45Y See also: https://lnkd.in/e3FTfhuY

March 12, 2025

ICANN 2025 - Second Call for Papers (Deadline Extension)

by Sebastian Otte

=============================================================================== ICANN 2025 - SECOND CALL FOR PAPERS (DEADLINE EXTENSION) =============================================================================== The 34th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks ICANN 2025 is one of the premier conferences in the field of artificial intelligence, neural networks, neuroscience and brain-inspired computing in Europe, organized in collaboration with the European Neural Network Society ENNS. In 2025, the ICANN will take place in Kaunas, Lithuania. Conference Dates: September 9 to September 12, 2025 Conference Venue: Campus of Vytautas Magnus University and Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania Conference Webpage: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/ Extended deadline for full paper and abstract submission: 29 March 2025 General co-Chairs: Yoshua Bengio (Université de Montréal, Canada) Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, France; EBRAINS) Prof. Yoshua Bengio is a Turing Award laureate and is globally recognized as a pioneer of deep learning and artificial neural networks, driving groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence. Prof. Viktor Jirsa is renowned for his work in theoretical neuroscience and Virtual Brain Twins, serving as Chief Science Officer of EBRAINS, Europe’s research infrastructure in digital neuroscience. With the exceptional leadership and expertise of the Chairs, ICANN 2025 promises to be a transformative event with the dual track of Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning and Neuroscience. The ICANN attracts a global audience of researchers, practitioners & industry experts and provides a forum for the presentation of cutting-edge research papers and invited keynote talks by leading experts. It includes workshops and tutorials, as well as engaging demo sessions. In 2025, ICANN will continue its proud tradition of being a dynamic and interactive conference, fostering collaboration across academia and industry. =============================================================================== We invite prospective authors to submit original and innovative papers in the following areas: AI and Machine Learning: Theory and Foundations of Neural Networks, Novel Neural Network Architectures, Topics in Neural Networks, Large Language Models, Explainable AI, Machine Learning for Graphs, Graph Neural Networks, Clustering, Reinforcement Learning, New Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Neurorobotics Neuroscience: Cognitive and Theoretical/Computational Neuroscience, Brain-Inspired Computing, Neuromorphic Systems, Digital Twins and Virtual Brain models Applications: Human-Computer Interaction, Biosignal Processing, Medicine and Physiology, Speech and Language Processing, Computer Vision, Robotics, Climate and Environment, General Applications of Machine Learning Call for Papers Authors willing to present original contributions in either the oral or poster category are invited to submit: - A full paper of 6-12 pages (including references) to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series with individual DOI. - An extended abstract of maximum 2 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series, without individual indexing. Papers will undergo rigorous peer review; the Program Committee will make the final decision on which papers will be included in the conference program. Selected papers will be assigned to oral sessions (15 minutes presentation + 5 minutes questions) and poster sessions, depending on the number of submissions; this assignment does in no way incur a judgment on paper quality. Note that presentation rules for workshops and special sessions may differ. All accepted papers will be published in the Springer LNCS series. Papers must be written in English language and must conform to the format defined in the Author’s Kit, available on the conference webpage at: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/submission The ICANN 2025 will be an in-person conference. At least one co-author of each paper must physically attend the conference in Kaunas to present the work. KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Emmanuel Bengio (Valence Labs/Recursion, Canada) Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, France; EBRAINS) Christiane Woopen (University of Bonn, Germany) Zeynep Akata (Technical University Munich & Helmholtz Munich) Alessio Micheli (University of Pisa, Italy) Oher keynote speakers to be announced. CONFIRMED TUTORIALS Dr. Emmanuael Bengio will give a Tutorial on GflowNets. Prof. Viktor Jirsa and his team will provide a Tutorial on The Virtual Brain, an open-source neuroscience platform designed to simulate and model personalised human brain models. CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Program Chairs Walter Senn (University of Bern, Switzerland) Chair Marcello Sanguineti (University of Genova, Italy) Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Igor Tetko (Helmholtz Munich, Germany) Alessandro Villa (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Communication Chairs Sebastian Otte (University of Lübeck, Germany) Honorary Chairs Vera Kurkova (Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague) Alessandro Villa (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Stefan Wermter (University of Hamburg, Germany) Local Organizing Committee Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Linas Petkevičius (Vilnius University, Artificial intelligence Association of Lithuania, Lithuania) Tomas Krilavicius (Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Workshop, Tutorials and Special Session Chairs Povilas Daniusis (Neurotechnology/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Dalius Matuzevičius (VilniusTech) Sponsorship Chair Dalia Breskuvienė (Vilnius University) Diversity & Inclusion Chair Kamilė Dementavičiūtė (Vinted) Steering Committee Stefan Wermter (University of Hamburg, Germany) Alessandro Villa (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Alessio Micheli (University of Pisa, Italy) Angelo Cangelosi (University of Manchester, UK) Igor Farkaš (Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Chrisina Jayne (Teesside University, UK) Matthias Kerzel (University of Hamburg, Germany) Alessandra Lintas (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Kristína Malinovská (Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Jaakko Peltonen (Tampere University, Finland) Brigitte Quenet (ESPCI Paris, France) Roseli Wedemann (Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil) Sebastian Otte (University of Lübeck, Germany) Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Igor Tetko (Helmholtz Munich, Germany) IMPORTANT DATES - Deadline for full paper and abstract submission: 29 March 2025 (extended) - Final notification of Acceptance or Rejection: 22 May 2025 - Camera-ready paper upload and author registration: 1 June 2025 For questions, please contact: icann-2025-program-committee(a)googlegroups.com Link to this call: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/call-for-papers

March 11, 2025

Eresfjord Summer School 2025 on Mathematical Methods in Computational Neuroscience

by Nicolai Waniek

Dear all, We are happy to announce the Eresfjord Summer School 2025 on "Mathematical Methods in Computational Neuroscience"! It will take place from 7 July to 25 July 2025 at the Fred Kavli Knowledge Center in beautiful Eresfjord, Norway, and we will cover some of the most important methods used in computational neuroscience research through both main lectures and scientific seminars. For more information, visit https://www.compneuronrsn.org/ and apply before 31 March! The confirmed speakers and lecturers are Sara Solla, Northwestern University, USA Predrag Cvitanović, Georgia Tech, USA Carina Curto, Brown University, USA Soledad Gonzalo Cogno, NTNU, Norway Juan Gallego, Imperial College London, UK Inés Samengo, Balseiro Institute, Argentina Valeria Fascianelli, Columbia University, USA Christian Machens, Champalimaud, Portugal Nicolai Waniek, NTNU, Norway Iván Davidovich, NTNU, Norway Federico Stella, Donders Institute, the Netherlands Melvin Vaupel, NTNU, Norway Yoram Burak, ELSC, Israel Arvind Kumar, KTH, Sweden Best, Nicolai -- on behalf of the organizers

March 11, 2025

Two fully funded PhD positions @University of Plymouth starting October 1, 2025

by Vassilis Cutsuridis

We are excited to offer *** two *** fully-funded PhD positions at the University of Plymouth in the fields of Neuromorphic AI, Brain-Computer Interaction, Optimization, and Biosignal Analysis. Details of both opportunities are below. Generative AI for image and video reconstructions from brain signals Can we access our inner thoughts and memories from brain signals and reconstruct their visual contents? The project aims to develop an explainable and trustworthy Generative AI pipeline system capable of decoding in real-time electroencephalography (EEG) brain signals of human participants while they are passively viewing or imagining visual content (faces, animals, etc) and of reconstructing their visual content with high fidelity. Link: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/postgraduate-research-stu… Supervisors: Vassilis Cutsuridis, Giorgio Ganis, Vivek Singh Contact: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk Enhancing AI Performance with AMD's Neural Processing Units The project aims to maximize the potential of AMD’s cutting-edge Neural Processing Units (NPUs) in the area of computer vision. This project is partially funded by AMD and the successful candidate will collaborate with AMD researchers. Link: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/postgraduate-research-stu… Supervisors: Vasilios Kelefouras, Vassilis Cutsuridis, Krithika Anil Contact: vasilios.kelefouras(a)plymouth.ac.uk Submission deadline for application materials for both PhD opportunities is 12 noon on March 28, 2025 Feel free to share with anyone who might be interested! Best, Vassilis --- Dr Vassilis Cutsuridis Associate Professor in Computer Science School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, UK, PL4 8AA Email: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk Web: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/staff/vassilis-cutsuridis *** I work strange hours. You may receive emails from me outside of office hours, but please do not feel you need to reply outside of office hours. ________________________________ [https://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, University of Plymouth accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. University of Plymouth 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.

March 10, 2025

Computational neuroscience postdoc position

by Neymotin, Samuel (NKI)

A postdoctoral scientist position is available at the Nathan Kline Institute (NKI) for Psychiatric Research (https://www.nki.rfmh.org<https://www.nki.rfmh.org/>) to work on computational neuroscience research funded from grants. Our DoD project involves developing computer models of the hippocampal/entorhinal cortex circuits and integrating the models with agents learning to solve navigation tasks using neurobiologically-inspired learning rules. This project involves collaboration with researchers at UTK and CMU. Example publication: (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fncom.2022.1017284/full) Our NIH projects use detailed biophysical models of the auditory thalamocortical system to investigate the brain's dynamics underlying different cognitive states, looking for circuit-based origins of schizophrenia, and improving brain machine interfaces. The postdoc will build models constrained by data collected from electrophysiology labs at NKI, Columbia, and The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, and use the models to predict optimal neuromodulation strategies to restore physiological balance, testable in vivo. Example publication: (https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(23)01390-6) Applicants should have a strong background in: computational modeling using NEURON/NetPyNE, Python software development, neural/electrophysiology data analysis, machine learning, and writing/presenting research. To apply, email a CV and cover letter to Sam Neymotin (samuel.neymotin(a)nki.rfmh.org) The position is on-site at NKI (New York), with some telecommuting possible. ________________________________ IMPORTANT NOTICE: This e-mail is meant only for the use of the intended recipient. It may contain confidential information which is legally privileged or otherwise protected by law. If you received this e-mail in error or from someone who was not authorized to send it to you, you are strictly prohibited from reviewing, using, disseminating, distributing or copying the e-mail. PLEASE NOTIFY US IMMEDIATELY OF THE ERROR BY RETURN E-MAIL AND DELETE THIS MESSAGE FROM YOUR SYSTEM. Thank you for your cooperation.

March 10, 2025

CNS*2025 abstract submission deadline EXTENDED to March 18th

by Rubchinsky, Leonid L

34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting CNS*2025, Florence, Italy, July 5-9, 2025. The deadline to submit an abstract is extended to Tuesday, March 18. Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/cns-2025-registration Abstract submission: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-abstract-submission CNS*2025 meeting information: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025 With kind regards, Leonid Rubchinsky OCNS Vice President, on behalf of the OCNS Board of Directors *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202-3216 lrubchin(a)iu.edu math.indianapolis.iu.edu/~lrubchin/ ***********************

March 10, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 11:00 am EDT| Olivier Marre, Institut de la vision, Paris

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Olivier Marre Institut de la Vision, Paris A perturbative approach to understand retinal computations The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Note that the USA has moved to Summer time. * *On Wednesday, March 12, 11am EDT = 4 pm CET = 3 pm GMT* *Abstract: *A major challenge in sensory systems is to understand how neurons extract information from the natural environment. Models derived from their responses to artificial stimuli often have a hard time to generalize and predict responses to natural scenes. However, models directly learned on the responses to natural scenes can be hard to interpret. To address this issue, we have recently developed an approach where we add small perturbations to natural scenes and measure how these perturbations change neuronal responses, to better understand the features extracted by sensory neurons. I will show several applications of this approach in the retina, and how it allowed us to uncover non-linear computations performed by ganglion cells, the retinal output. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

March 9, 2025

Registration open (abstract submission deadline April 15) for the NSF-Simons NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference 11-14 August 2025 Chicago IL

by William L. Kath

*The NSF-Simons NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference 11-14 August 2025 Chicago, IL Registration, Abstract Submission and Travel Award Applications now open!* More details at https://www.nitmb.org/nitmb-mathbio-convergence-conference We are calling for talks and posters discussing challenging problems in biology that are inspiring new mathematics, statistics, theory and computation, and mathematics that is generating important new insights into biology. If you are a mathematician working on biology or a biologist using mathematics, or just someone who would like to learn more about research at the interface between mathematics and biology, we encourage you to attend. * *Registration:* The number of attendees at the conference is finite. We are asking participants to pay a small fee ($100) to hold their place. * *Abstracts:* Register before 15 April if you would like to submit an abstract. * *Travel Awards:* We are proud to offer travel award to students and early career researchers. A brief application is required for consideration - deadline April 15. * Travel awards fund up to $650 for domestic travel and $800 for intercontinental travel, plus reimbursement for local hotel costs and for meals not provided by the conference (gsa.gov rates apply). Award recipients must lodge at The Drake Hotel (140 East Walton Place Chicago, IL 60611) to receive reimbursement. *Registration/submission steps:* 1. Register at https://www.nitmb.org/nitmb-mathbio-convergence-conference 2. Upon entering your information, you will be directed to a payment site. 3. After confirmation of payment (please note your confirmation number), you will be sent links with which to submit an abstract and/or apply for a travel award. If you have questions, please email nitmb(a)nitmb.org I_mportant Dates:_ Abstract Submission April 15, 2025 Travel Award Application April 15, 2025 Early Registration (to be considered for a presentation) ($100) February 15 - April 15, 2025 Notification of selection for an Oral Talk or a Poster Late May Regular Registration (no presentation) ($100) February 15 - July 14, 2025 Late Registration ($200) July 15 - August 4, 2025 Hotel Registration (at the Drake) Mid-April - July 15, 2025 *Confirmed plenary speakers:* *Alexander Auhlela, The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)* Dr. Aulehla uses dynamical systems to study how a vertebrate embryo forms the unique number of body segments that make up the vertebrae. *Carina Curto, Brown University* Dr. Curto combines mathematical tools from algebra, geometry, topology and dynamical systems to elucidate complex patterns of activity in networks of neurons. *Lorin Crawford, Microsoft Research and Brown University* Dr. Crawford uses machine learning and statistical tools to study the genotype-to-phenotype map for complex traits and diseases. *Michael Hawrylycz, The Allen Institute* Dr. Hawrylycz studies the cellular constitution and organization of the brain using single-cell transcriptomics and cutting-edge computational and statistical tools. *Anna-Liisa Laine, University of Helsinki* Dr. Laine studies complex problems in ecology across a spectrum of length and time scales. *Reidun Twarock, University of York* Dr. Twarock uses mathematics to study the symmetries of animal viruses and how they self-assemble inside host cells.

March 7, 2025

Bilateral AI: Call for applications

by Robert Legenstein

Bilateral Artificial Intelligence: Discovering the Next Dimension of AI *Call for Applications: Join a world-class faculty to work in a field that is changing our world* https://www.bilateral-ai.net <https://www.bilateral-ai.net/> In Austria, leading scientists in the field of AI have joined forces and created the Cluster of Excellence (CoE) “Bilateral Artificial Intelligence: Discovering the Next Dimension of AI”, funded by the Austrian Science Fund FWF. The visionis to educate a new generation of top-quality AI scientists with a holistic understanding of symbolic and sub-symbolic AI methods. Combining these two worlds is shaping up to be the next big game changing development! The CoE “Bilateral AI”is currently looking for the brightest minds in this field, offering *around 50 PhD and Postdoc positions*, with several exciting opportunities still available. Join us and become part of the next AI revolution! https://www.bilateral-ai.net/career <https://www.bilateral-ai.net/career> The participating research centers are Johannes Kepler Universität Linz (JKU Linz), Technische Universität Wien (TU Wien), Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt (AAU), Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Technische Universität Graz (TU Graz), and Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien (WU Wien). The Board of Directors is led by Sepp Hochreiter (JKU Linz), with Thomas Eiter (TU Wien) serving as Vice Director. -- Dr. Robert Legenstein Univ.-Professor Institute of Machine Learning and Neural Computation Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria http://www.iml.tugraz.at/legi/ WebEx:https://tugraz.webex.com/meet/robert.legenstein ++43/316/873-5824 ----------------------------------

March 7, 2025

Advancing Scientific Discovery with AI - Summer School | June 29 - July 3, 2025, Caen, France

by Frederic Jurie

Advancing Scientific Discovery with AI Summer School | June 29 - July 3, 2025, Caen, France https://ai4science.sciencesconf.org/ A program to learn and collaborate at the intersection of AI and scientific discovery. About the Summer School This summer school provides a platform for researchers and students from diverse scientific backgrounds to delve into Artificial Intelligence and its applications in scientific research. Over five days, participants will explore current techniques, learn from experienced specialists, and collaborate with peers on relevant scientific problems. Each day focuses on a specific application domain and the related AI methodologies. This program aims at exploring the potential of AI to accelerate research and improve our understanding of complex scientific phenomena. Program Overview Sunday, June 29, 2025 (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM) Welcome Reception: Participants can attend an evening of networking and introductions. Snacks will be served while participants share their motivations, backgrounds, and AI-related projects with fellow participants and speakers. Daily Structure Each day will be structured to facilitate learning and interaction, combining a variety of formats. Expect a blend of: Lectures: Comprehensive presentations introducing key concepts and theoretical frameworks. Hands-on Practical Sessions: Application of the newly learned AI techniques to concrete scientific problems, in dedicated labs. Conferences: Seminars led by specialists in their respective fields. Exchange and Discussion Sessions: Engaging discussions to reinforce understanding and explore diverse perspectives, led by a scientific personality. Breaks and Free time: Time to recharge and connect with participants and speakers. Monday, June 30, 2025 (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM) Theme: AI for Medical Applications Focus: Medical Image Processing. AI Foundations: Machine learning and deep learning basics, convolutional neural networks. Participants will explore how AI algorithms, specifically convolutional neural networks, are used in medical diagnostics and analysis from image processing. Tuesday, July 1, 2025 (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM) Theme: AI for Simulation Acceleration Focus: Accelerating simulations in fields such as astronomy. AI Foundations: Generative models. Participants will learn about the potential of generative models in accelerating scientific simulations, exploring their application in high-performance computing. Wednesday, July 2, 2025 (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM) Theme: AI for Inverse Problems Focus: Sensor localization in magnetometry and related fields. AI Foundations: Physics-inspired neural networks. Participants will discover the application of physics-inspired neural networks to solve inverse problems, using physical laws to constrain the neural architectures. A part of the afternoon will be dedicated to a social event at the Caen Town Hall. Thursday, July 3, 2025 (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM) Theme: AI for Materials Science Focus: Materials discovery and characterization. AI Foundations: Uncertainty quantification, Bayesian models. Participants will learn about the use of AI for materials discovery, combining Bayesian methods with deep learning to provide uncertainty in material predictions. Friday, July 4, 2025 (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Theme: AI for Particle Physics Focus: Analysis of particle physics data and anomaly detection. AI Foundations: Deep learning for physics data analysis, anomaly detection. Participants will explore the application of deep learning techniques in particle physics, focusing on data analysis and anomaly detection in large datasets obtained from colliders and telescopes. Application Process Individuals interested in applying should submit the following: A letter of motivation explaining your interest in the summer school and how it relates to your research. A detailed CV outlining your educational background, skills, and any relevant research experience. The selection process aims to ensure a diverse group of participants from different scientific fields, with a range of expertise levels. Please submit your application at https://ai4science.sciencesconf.org/ Further Information The names of the scientific personalities leading each day and the full list of speakers will be announced shortly. For further inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us at ai4science(a)sciencesconf.org. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to this enriching summer school experience!

March 7, 2025

Call for contribution and registration to the Systems Vision Science Symposium: Aug. 20-22, 2025, in Tuebingen, Germany

by Pavlovic, Maria

Systems Vision Science Symposium <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/contributions-for-symposium/> Aug. 20-22, 2025 in Tübingen, Germany<https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/contributions-for-symposium/> Our symposium takes place at the end of our Systems Vision Science Summer School <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/> Aug. 11-22, 2025. Our symposium's keynote speaker: Tadashi Isa. Invited speakers of the Systems Vision Science Summer School and Symposium include: Marco Bertamini, David Brainard, Peter Dayan, Andrea van Doorn, Roland Fleming, Pascal Fries, Wilson S Geisler, Robbe Goris, Sheng He, Tadashi Isa, Tomas Knapen, Jan Koenderink, Larry Maloney, Keith May, Marcello Rosa, Jonathan Victor, Li Zhaoping. -------------------------------- We invite you to participate in and contribute (in form of posters) to the symposium. Your contribution will be in the general topic of Systems Vision Science, which promotes the combination of computational, behavioral, and neuroscience methods to discover functions and algorithms for vision in various brain regions and their implementations in neural circuits. To maximize exchanges during the symposium, each poster will be displayed throughout the symposium, which includes four poster sessions (two daytime sessions and two evening sessions), in a venue next to the lecture hall and coffee breaks to give enough time for discussions, networking and knowledge exchange. -------------------------------- To contribute or participate, please fill out the appropriate form at https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/contributions-for-symposium/ The deadline for symposium contribution is April 30, 2025. Registration for participation without contribution is open until venue capacity (100) is reached. Interested in participating in the summer school before the symposium? You could apply to the summer school by March 31, see https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/ Please direct inquiries to svs.summerschool(a)tue.mpg.de <mailto:svs.summerschool@tue.mpg.de> -------------------------------- Organizing team: Li Zhaoping Maria Pavlovic Vladislav Aksiotis Junhao Liang Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics University of Tuebingen www.lizhaoping.org<http://www.lizhaoping.org>

March 7, 2025

Abstract submission open for the UK Neural Computation meeting July 9-11, Imperial College London

by Mark Humphries

Abstract submission is now open for the UK Neural Computation meeting 2025 at Imperial College on 9-11th July 2025. Submit here: https://forms.gle/kg5xaSfBX3sN7tUN9 Deadline of 12th May 2025 4 submitted abstracts will be selected for main meeting talks. Please spread the word! Conference information: https://neuralcomputation.uk/ Sponsors: ARIA Scalable Neural Interfaces program<https://www.aria.org.uk/opportunity-spaces/scalable-neural-interfaces> Francis Crick Institute<https://www.crick.ac.uk/> Organisers: Danyal Akarca (Imperial) Dan Goodman (Imperial) Mark Humphries (Nottingham) Professor Mark Humphries | Professor of Computational Neuroscience Lab: humphries-lab.org<https://www.humphries-lab.org/> Connect: Bluesky<https://bsky.app/profile/markdhumphries.bsky.social> / LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-humphries-65a460212/> / X<https://x.com/markdhumphries> Essays on the brain and science: drmdhumphries.medium.com<https://drmdhumphries.medium.com/> Book: "The Spike: An Epic Journey Through the Brain in 2.1 Seconds" (Princeton UP) in hardback<https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691195889/the-spike?_gl=1*h…..>, paperback<https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691241487/the-spike>, ebook<https://press.princeton.edu/books/ebook/9780691213514/the-spike-0?_gl=1*1uf…..> & audiobook<https://press.princeton.edu/books/audio/9780691224091/the-spike?_gl=1*37xz7…..> <https://press.princeton.edu/books/audio/9780691224091/the-spike?_gl=1*37xz7…..> read by Anand Jagatia This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

March 6, 2025

Call for applicants: IRCN and Chen Institute Joint Course on Neuro-inspired Computation

by nagai.yukie＠mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Dear colleagues, The International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), the University of Tokyo has opened the call for applications for the "IRCN and Chen Institute Joint Course on Neuro-inspired Computation" to be held at ICHIJO HALL, the UTokyo Yayoi Campus from July 2 to 5, 2025. https://ircn.jp/en/events/07_ircncourse2025 In a collaborative effort, the World Premier International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN) at the University of Tokyo and the Tianqiao & Chrissy Chen Institute (Chen Institute) are proud to present the Neuro-inspired Computation Course, a groundbreaking program designed to explore the convergence of natural and artificial intelligence. This course delves into critical topics such as intrinsic dynamics, network architectures, prediction, plasticity, criticality, multi-agent learning, and neuromodulation, highlighting the potential for interdisciplinary innovation in advancing our understanding of cognitive processes. The course is an intensive 4-day program comprising lectures by distinguished international faculty, poster sessions, and interactive discussion sessions. These three pillars of the program help participants deepen their understanding and enhance their expertise in neuroscience and artificial intelligence. The lectures showcase cutting-edge research from around the world, while the poster sessions provide participants with a platform to present their own research. The discussion sessions foster interdisciplinary dialogue, encourage intellectual exchange, and pave the way for future collaborations. = Course details = Dates: July 2 (Wed)-5 (Sat), 2025 Venue: Yayoi Auditorium Ichijo Hall (Inside UTokyo Yayoi Campus ) Language: English Application (Required by April 11, 2025 1500hrs, JST): See the homepage for detailed instructions = Speakers = Eugene Izhikevic (Brain Corp) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL) Kazuyuki Aihara (WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Shin Ishii (Kyoto University / WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Eleonora Russo (Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa) Zenas Chao (WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Takamitsu Watanabe (WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Hiroaki Kitano (Sony / OIST) Kenichi Ohki (WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Yukie Nagai (WPI-IRCN, The University of Tokyo) Song Sen (Tsinghua University) Others For enquiries, please contact: course(a)ircn.jp We look forward to receiving applications from all over the world. If you know someone who might be interested, please kindly forward this information to them. Best regards, Yukie Nagai, on behalf of the organizing committees — Yukie Nagai, Ph.D. Project Professor, The University of Tokyo nagai.yukie(a)mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp | https://developmental-robotics.jp CREST Cognitive Feelings: https://cognitive-feeling.jp CREST Cognitive Mirroring: https://cognitive-mirroring.org

March 6, 2025

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer Position in Australia - Monash University

by Elizabeth Zavitz

Dear colleagues, Please find below an advertisement for a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer position in the Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. Monash Careers – Lecturer/Senior Lecturer <https://careers.pageuppeople.com/513/cw/en/job/675715/lecturer-senior-lectu…> In this role, you will make significant contributions to teaching, engage with students, and collaborate with colleagues in delivering innovative courses. Your work will complement our strengths in control systems, wireless technology, signal processing, and AI techniques, underpinned by expertise in electronics, RF, sensors, energy systems, and computing devices—driving real-world applications that fuel innovation. You will also lead transformative research, contributing to global challenges through impactful work and collaboration. The application deadline is April 2nd, 2025, 11:55 pm AEDT. Please feel free to share this opportunity with interested colleagues. For any inquiries, do not hesitate to reach out. Best Regards, Elizabeth Zavitz Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering Monash University, Australia

March 5, 2025

Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Summer School application open!

by Chengcheng Huang

Applications are open for the 13th Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Summer School (CCNSS), which will be held from *June 29 to July 20, 2025*, at *Suzhou, China*. Online application: https://www.csh-asia.org/?content/2621 <https://www.csh-asia.org/?content/2621=> Application deadline: *March 31, 2025* About CCNSS: Designed to emphasize computational principles and neural circuit mechanisms of higher cognitive functions, the course aims at training talented and highly motivated students and postdoctoral fellows from Asia and around the world. We welcome both applicants with quantitative backgrounds (including Physics, Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science) and those with experimental backgrounds. The lectures will introduce the basic concepts and methods, as well as cutting-edge research on higher brain functions such as decision-making, attention, learning and memory. Modeling will be taught at multiple levels, ranging from single neuron computation and microcircuits up to large-scale brain systems and artificial intelligence and psychiatric disorders. Python-based programming labs coordinated with the lectures will provide practical training in important computational methods. 2025 Faculty: João Barbosa, Institute for Neuromodulation & NeuroSpin, Paris Upinder Bhalla, National Centre for Biological Sciences (TIFR) Áine Byrne, University College Dublin Xing Chen, University of Pittsburgh Gustavo Deco, Universitat Pompeu Fabra Michael Häusser, University College London Chengcheng Huang, University of Pittsburgh Kevin Wenliang Li, Google DeepMind Songting Li, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Sukbin Lim, New York University, Shanghai Jorge Mejias, University of Amsterdam Yuanyuan Mi, Tsinghua University Srdjan Ostojic, École normale supérieure Alexander Reyes, New York University Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University Anqi Wu, Georgia Institute of Technology Si Wu, Peking University Organizers: Áine Byrne, University College Dublin Chengcheng Huang, University of Pittsburgh Songting Li, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Jorge Mejias, University of Amsterdam Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University Note: China adopts a unilateral visa-free policy for Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia and Japan until December 31, 2025. Ordinary passport holders from the above-mentioned countries may enter China visa-free for business, tourism, family visit or transit for no more than 30 days. -- Dr. Chengcheng Huang Assistant Professor Department of Neuroscience Department of Mathematics University of Pittsburgh

March 5, 2025

Comp Neuro PhD position, Moreno-Bote Lab, Barcelona

by Ruben Moreno Bote

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote Lab Center for Brain and Cognition, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain 1 fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote in the Center for Brain and Cognition at the University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. We are looking for excellent candidates with a Physics, Mathematics or Computer Science background interested in developing theory for the brain and mind. Knowledge of Computational Neuroscience or Neuroscience would be ideal, but it is not necessary. The candidate will develop state-of-the-art theory and models of natural and artificial intelligence by using neural networks, reinforcement learning, machine learning, data analysis and multielectrode neural data. The main research topic of our lab is decision-making, from a multidisciplinary angle. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of the Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab https://sites.google.com/view/morenobotecompneuro?pli=1 forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format and an extract of grades for degree and master studies should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu DEADLINE: until the position is filled STARTING DATE: flexible, from September 2025

March 5, 2025

NeuroML at Google Summer of Code 2025: looking for candidates for standardised biophysically detailed modelling project

by Ankur Sinha

Dear all, NeuroML[1] is participating in Google Summer of Code under the INCF again this year[2]. You can read more about NeuroML in our paper here[3]. We are looking for candidates with some experience of biophysically detailed modelling to work on our project "Developing standardised biophysically detailed neuronal circuit models using NeuroML/PyNN/Open Source Brain". The idea of the project is to either develop new models using NeuroML (and PyNN and publishing them on Open Source Brain), or standardising existing published models. The project is perfect for PhD candidates that are working on projects that use biophysically detailed computational modelling. We will help them learn NeuroML and its vast software ecosystem to implement their models and simulations in a standardised way from the beginning. Please do tell your colleagues, especially your students, and get in touch if there is anything we can help with. [1] https://docs.neuroml.org [2] https://docs.neuroml.org/NeuroMLOrg/OutreachTraining.html#google-summer-of-… [3] https://elifesciences.org/articles/95135 -- Thanks, Regards, Ankur Sinha (He / Him / His) | https://ankursinha.in Research Fellow at the Silver Lab, University College London | http://silverlab.org/ Free/Open source community volunteer at the NeuroFedora project | https://neuro.fedoraproject.org Time zone: Europe/London

March 5, 2025

Allen Institute Modeling Software Workshop

by Anton Arkhipov

Dear Colleagues, Applications<https://alleninstitute.submittable.com/submit/306603/2025-allen-institute-m…> for the Allen Institute Modeling Software Workshop<https://alleninstitute.org/events/2025-modeling-software-workshop/> are open until March 15th, 2025. We hope you will apply and look forward to hosting this workshop on July 28-30, 2025 at the Allen Institute in Seattle, WA. This hands-on workshop focuses on building and simulating complex and heterogeneous network models grounded in real biological data. Participants will learn to use BMTK, SONATA, VND, our data, and models for simulating brain circuits. Selected applicants will be notified by May 1, 2025. Limited travel funding is available. We are looking forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Anton. Anton Arkhipov Investigator, Allen Institute antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org> alleninstitute.org<https://alleninstitute.org/> brain-map.org<https://portal.brain-map.org/>

March 5, 2025

Human Neocortical Neurosolver (HNN) Online Workshop

by Gao, Joyce

Dear all, We invite you to join us for our 2025 Spring Online Human Neocortical Neurosolver (HNN) Workshop! HNN is a user-friendly software tool for interpreting the cell and circuit level origin of human MEG and EEG signals (Neymotin et al 2020, https://hnn.brown.edu) This workshop will be hosted virtually on Wednesday, April 9th from 9 AM - 3 PM (ET). You can find out more about the workshop and sign up here: tinyurl.com/hnn-workshop-registration. Seats are limited, so if you are interested, we recommend signing up today! Our best, Jones Computational Neuroscience Lab Brown University, Carney Institute for Brain Science

March 4, 2025

InterfaceNeuro meeting May 7-8 in Atlanta

by Rozell, Christopher J

***A reminder that submissions for InterfaceNeuro are due in just a few days on March 14. *** I’m writing to invite you to attend a conference hosted May 7-8 at Georgia Tech called InterfaceNeuro (https://interfaceneuro.org) which targets the intersection of neuroscience, neuroengineering, clinical/translational research, neurotech industry, and individuals with lived experiences. While each of these areas obviously has their own meetings, this conference is unique in interfacing these areas all together to find points of collaboration. The theme this year is "Integrating Brain, Body, and Machine for Next-Gen Intelligent Interfaces". The program features curated invited talks, a keynote from Dr. Mike Okun, contributed poster sessions, and a featured event focused on patient's lived experiences with neurotechnology. You can see from the program that the curated talks have been chosen to span disciplines and generate discussion. We've minimized registration fees to try and make the meeting as accessible as possible (note that there is no virtual component). Poster submissions are due by March 14 (as part of registration), and there will be a slate of best poster prizes for trainees. This will be the first meeting hosted by Georgia Tech building off of previous offerings by Rice University’s Neuroengineering Initiative, and we are excited to welcome you all to Atlanta. Please reach out if you have questions. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you in May!

March 4, 2025

Predoctoral position in the NeuroNanotech MSCA Doctoral Network

by Miguel Valencia Ustárroz

We are seeking a talented predoctoral candidate for the project: "In-vivo assessment of nanotecnologies for smart neuromodulation <https://neuronanotech.eu/phd-projects/in-vivo-assessment-of-nanotecnologies…>" within the NeuroNanotech MSCA Doctoral Network <https://neuronanotech.eu/phd-projects/> HOST INSTITUTION Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA, Spain) & Cajal Insitute (CSIC, Spain) PhD PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project falls within a multidisciplinary and cross-disciplinary research line at the intersection of engineering, nanotechnology, and neuroscience, aiming to develop intelligent neuromodulation systems for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. With a primary focus on Parkinson’s disease (PD), this doctoral thesis project seeks to integrate the expertise of the “Neurophysiological Monitoring and Control Laboratory” at CIMA in Pamplona and the “Neurophysiology and Synaptic Plasticity Laboratory” at the Cajal Insitute in Madrid to assess the suitability of nanotechnology-based neural interfaces in the challenge of restoring neural dynamics of motor control. During the project, we will explore the use of nanostructured electrodes and ultra-sensitive spintronic magnetic sensors together with real-time signal processing to develop a proof of concept of a smart-stimulation framework to manipulate motor behaviour in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. The system will pursue high levels of tissue integration and stable performance in recording/stimulation and avoiding electrode degradation. During the project, the candidate will work on key aspects of the development of the neuromodulatory solution such as: 1. In-vivo assessment of long-term biocompatibility of the sensing and stimulation interfaces. 2. Adaptation of the neuromodulation system for the use of in-vivo/freely moving animal models of Parkinson’s disease as a proxy for future human use. 3. Increase our knowledge of the relationship between magnetic and electrophysiological readings. 4. Development of signal processing techniques to de-noise and enhance sensitivity of detection of proposed technologies. 5. Assessment of the functional performance of the smart sensing and stimulation interfaces on the animal models of Parkinson’s disease As a result, the candidate will have the opportunity to learn: 1. Methods and technologies for in-vivo/freely moving electrophysiological recordings, surgery training (including stereotactic methods, multi-site multimodal recordings, and stimulation), animal handling, methods for motor impairment assessment, and viral injections. 2. Histological processing, confocal microscopy 3. Hardware development and control, real-time signal processing, integration of multimodal sources such as video, ephys and sound, data analysis and statistics including AI/ML RESEARCH SUPERVISORs Miguel Valencia Ustárroz (mvustarroz(a)unav.es) Physiological Monitoring and Control Lab <https://cima.cun.es/en/research/research-programs/immunology-immunotherapy-…> @ CIMA Eduardo Martín Montiel (eduardo.martin(a)cajal.csic.es) Neurophysiology and Synaptic Plasticity Lab <https://cajal.csic.es/en/neurophysiology-and-synaptic-plasticity/> @ CSIC RESEARCH GROUP DESCRIPTION The Physiological Monitoring and Control group at CIMA integrates bioengineering and physiology to solve challenges associated with the lack of translational biomarkers in the development of new therapies, limited access to new monitoring technologies in in-hospital and out-of-hospital settings, and precision medicine through the development of personalized diagnostic and treatment methods. To this end, they implement and deploy (i) miniaturized recording systems for electrophysiological recordings (ii) intelligent stimulation systems and (iii) systems for monitoring physiological variables in humans. The goal: to develop and validate new biomarkers and therapeutic approaches that are preferentially applied in neurological and neurodegenerative diseases (although they also find application in metabolic diseases, surgical monitoring, anesthesia, and cancer). The Neurophysiology and Synaptic Plasticity group at Cajal Insitute is focused on the study of the cellular processes and molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of synaptic transmission, and particularly in the ability of neurons to regulate the synaptic strength over time and the properties, mechanisms and consequences of astrocyte signalling on neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission in the control of motor activity, both in physiological and pathological conditions. APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS - A degree/master in engineering, physics, or similar with a deep interest in neurosciences, physiology, and medical engineering - Knowledge of Python/Matlab and interest in hardware integration/control - Previous experience in any of these areas will be highly valued: hardware development, medical electronics, biomedical signal processing, electrophysiology, optogenetics, histological processing, in vitro and in vivo experimentation. ADDITIONAL PHD APPLICATION AND RECRUITMENT STEPS No additional requirements apart from those derived from the secondments are considered ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS: - Mobility requirements: candidates have not resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date. - Research experience: must be doctoral candidates, i.e., not already in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment. - Candidates must enroll in a doctoral programme in the relevant EU Member State/Associated Country. APPLY NOW!!! @ https://neuronanotech.eu/apply-now/ ---------------------------------------------------- Miguel Valencia Ustárroz, PhD Physiological Monitoring and Control Lab <https://cima.cun.es/en/research/research-programs/immunology-immunotherapy-…> Biomedical Engineering Program CIMA/University of Navarra e-mail: mvustarroz(a)unav.es Tel: + 34 948 194700, ext 2007 http://www.researcherid.com/rid/C-3055-2009 http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5617-5270 https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=7101646864 *CONFIDENCIALIDAD: La información contenida en esta comunicación puede ser confidencial y está destinada para el uso exclusivo del destinatario arriba designado. Si usted no es el destinatario, cualquier divulgación, reproducción, distribución o uso de esta comunicación está estrictamente prohibida. Si usted ha recibido esta transmisión por error le rogamos nos informe de este error. Si usted es el destinatario de esta comunicación, por favor no transmita ni distribuya su contenido sin la autorización previa del autor de la comunicación.* *CONFIDENTIALITY: The information contained in this communication may be privileged and confidential and is intended for the exclusive use of the addressee designated above. If you are not the addressee, any disclosure, reproduction, distribution or other dissemination or use of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error please would you be kind enough to inform us. If you are the intended recipient, please do not forward or distribute the contents electronically or in a hard copy without the prior authorisation of the author of this communication.* -- *Este mensaje puede contener información confidencial. Si usted no es el destinatario o lo ha recibido por error, por favor, bórrelo de sus sistemas y comuníquelo a la mayor brevedad al remitente. 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March 4, 2025

Registration is now open for BrainNet 2025 workshop!

by Pascal Helson

Dear all, We are thrilled to announce the fourth BrainNet workshop. If you're interested in exploring how analysis of brain data, network science and different imaging methods can explain more about the brain and its functioning, we cordially invite you to attend the BrainNet 2025 in Stockholm, Sweden, from May 5th to 8th. Our interdisciplinary set of speakers will showcase state-of-the-art methods for analyzing and explaining brain data, offering insights from both theoretical and experimental perspectives. The event is hybrid, you can participate either in person or virtually. For on-site participants, you can submit an abstract for giving a contributed talk! Registration closes on 6th of April 2025. The confirmed speakers are: Adrián Ponce-Alvarez, Polytechnic University of Catalonia Roxana Zeraati, Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics Michael Winding, Francis Crick Institute Barbara Hollunder, Charité - University Medicine Berlin Jacob Vogel, Lund University Alex Bhogal, UMC Utrecht Andrew Lehr, University Medical Center Göttingen Sacha van Albada, Research center Jülich Lida Kanari, Open Brain Institute Grégoria Kalpouzos, Karolinska Institutet Katharina Heining, Karolinska Institutet Annegret Habich, Karolinska Institutet Rodrigo Moreno, KTH Dhrubaditya Mitra, Nordita, Stockholm University Josefine Waldthaler, Karolinska Institutet This is a unique opportunity to connect with the experts and the participants, the event is structured with ample time for discussions. You can find all the details – including the preliminary schedule, speaker list, and registration link – on the BrainNet 2025 webpage at https://brainnet2025.carrd.co/. We look forward to seeing you there! Please distribute the link in your networks for anyone who might be interested in attending. Best regards, The BrainNet 2025 Organizing Committee: Pascal Helson, KTH Arvind Kumar, KTH Henri Riihimäki, Nordita, Stockholm University Jason Smith, Nottingham Trent University Gonzalo Uribarri, KTH Sarah Vandenbulcke, KTH

March 3, 2025

Student/TA applications are open for Neuromatch summer courses

by Bonnen, Kathryn

Dear colleagues, Student and TA applications are open for Summer 2025 ! This is a great opportunity to learn computational concepts and modeling with students from around the globe. Courses are available in Computational Neuroscience, NeuroAI, Deep Learning and Computational Climate Science. You can apply as a student or a TA (TA positions offer financial compensation). Please share with students/postdocs and your departments. More information below. Thanks, Kate Bonnen Kathryn Bonnen Assistant Professor, School of Optometry Indiana University kbonnen(a)iu.edu<mailto:kbonnen@iu.edu> https://bonnenlab.github.io<https://bonnenlab.github.io/> -- We're thrilled to announce our lineup of immersive courses at Neuromatch Academy! Whether you're a student eager to dive into cutting-edge topics or a seasoned researcher looking to contribute as a Teaching Assistant, we have opportunities tailored for you. 3-week Courses (July 7-25): * Computational Neuroscience<https://neuromatch.io/computational-neuroscience-course/>: Explore the intricacies of the brain's computational processes and join an engaging community of learners. * Deep Learning<https://neuromatch.io/deep-learning-course/>: Delve into the world of artificial intelligence to uncover the principles and applications of deep learning. 2-week Courses (July 14-25): * Computational Tools for Climate Science<https://neuromatch.io/computational-tools-for-climate-science-course/>: Uncover the tools and techniques driving climate science research in this dynamic two-week course. * NeuroAI<https://neuromatch.io/neuroai-course/>: Explore the intersection of neuroscience and artificial intelligence through the lens of generalization. Application Info: * Close: Sunday, March 23rd, at midnight in your local time zone * Decisions: Mid-April * Requirements: * Students are expected to be familiar with Python and have foundational science skills in math/science. * Teaching Assistants should have strong Python skills and a background in the relevant topic. See the course pages for more information. * Link: Apply Here<https://portal.neuromatchacademy.org/> Additional Information: * All courses are synchronous but will be conducted exclusively online, providing flexibility and accessibility. * Participation fees are lower than those of other courses to make education affordable to everybody, no matter their financial background. They are also adjusted for national economic factors. Detailed information about course fees can be found here<https://neuromatchacademy.github.io/widgets/cola.html>. * Teaching Assistants will lead small groups of students, fostering collaborative learning. TA positions offer financial compensation; detailed rates can be found here<https://neuromatchacademy.github.io/widgets/ta_cola.html>. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your knowledge, connect with experts in the field, and contribute to the success of our courses. Apply today and join us on a journey of discovery! Should you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us at nma(a)neuromatch.io<mailto:nma@neuromatch.io>. We look forward to welcoming you to the Neuromatch Academy family!

March 3, 2025

[Call for Abstracts] 5th Inter. Conf. Phil. Mind (15-21 May 2025)

by steven gouveia

Dear All, We are happy to announce the Call for Abstracts for the 5th International Conference Philosophy of Mind: Natural and Artificial Intelligence, which will happen between the 15-21 May 2025 at the Faculty of Humanities of the University of Porto. The conference will be divided into two formats: 15-16 May fully online, and 19, 20 and 21 May 2025 fully in-person in Porto. Keynotes speakers are: * Michael Spezio (Scripps College, USA) * Anna Strasser (LMU-Munich) * Gabriel Mograbi (Federal Uni. Rio Janeiro) * Sara Lumbreras (Uni. Pontificia Comillas, Madrid) * Sofia Miguens (University of Porto). The best submitted talk will receive the Philosophy of Mind Award 2025 (waived fee). More information can be found here: https://ifilosofia.up.pt/activities/5-international-conference-philosophy-m… [deadline: 15 March 2025]. Organizers

March 2, 2025

Two fully funded PhD opportunities @University of Plymouth starting October 1, 2025

by Vassilis Cutsuridis

We are excited to offer **** two **** *fully-funded PhD positions* at the University of Plymouth in the fields of Neuromorphic AI, Brain-Computer Interaction, Optimization, and Biosignal Analysis. Details of both opportunities are below. *Generative AI for image and video reconstructions from brain signals* Can we access our inner thoughts and memories from brain signals and reconstruct their visual contents? The project aims to develop an explainable and trustworthy Generative AI pipeline system capable of decoding in real-time electroencephalography (EEG) brain signals of human participants while they are passively viewing or imagining visual content (faces, animals, etc) and of reconstructing their visual content with high fidelity. *Link*: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/postgraduate-research-stu… <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> *Supervisors*: Vassilis Cutsuridis, Giorgio Ganis, Vivek Singh *Contact*: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk *Enhancing AI Performance with AMD's Neural Processing Units* The project aims to maximize the potential of AMD’s cutting-edge Neural Processing Units (NPUs) in the area of computer vision. This project is partially funded by AMD and the successful candidate will collaborate with AMD researchers. *Link:* https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/postgraduate-research-stu… <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> *Supervisors*: Vasilios Kelefouras, Vassilis Cutsuridis, Krithika Anil *Contact:* vasilios.kelefouras(a)plymouth.ac.uk *Submission deadline* for application materials for both PhD opportunities is *12 noon on March 28, 2025* Feel free to share with anyone who might be interested! --- *Dr Vassilis Cutsuridis* Associate Professor in Computer Science School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, UK, PL4 8AA Email: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk Web: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/staff/vassilis-cutsuridis *** I work strange hours. You may receive emails from me outside of office hours, but please do not feel you need to reply outside of office hours.

March 2, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Yonatan Loewenstein, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Yonatan Loewenstein ELSC The Hebrew University of Jerusalem On Idiosyncratic Biases in Decision-Making The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *Why do individuals, both humans and animals, exhibit personal biases in two-alternative decision-making tasks, even when no clear reason exists to favor one alternative over another? In this talk, I will explore two competing hypotheses to explain these idiosyncratic biases. The first suggests that such tendencies arise from unique personal experiences, where past associations between actions and feedback influence future choices. The second hypothesis proposes that the bias reflects irreducible microscopic heterogeneities in the dynamics of decision-making networks. I will present experimental data and theoretical findings that support the latter hypothesis, shedding new light on the neural mechanisms behind seemingly irrational preferences. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.*

March 2, 2025

Available PhD Position: Multimodal AI-based Diagnosis of ADHD

by Amir Aly

Dear All *Apologies for cross-posting* We are pleased to announce an opportunity for a tax-free fully funded PhD studentship - *Multimodal AI-based Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) -* at Plymouth University, UK. The closing date for applications is *12 noon on 28th March 2025** (**UK time) **(**The difference in tuition fees between national and international students will be waived for international candidates**)*. This exciting project aims to transform ADHD diagnosis by developing a multimodal Artificial Intelligence (AI) framework that addresses the significant limitations of current, subjective diagnostic practices. Although AI is emerging in ADHD research, its integration into standard clinical practices remains minimal. This project seeks to enhance diagnostic accuracy through a sophisticated integration of AI-driven insights that complement existing approaches. Some basic questions (among others) that this project will try to explore are: 1. How can machine learning and deep learning models be tailored to various data types like neuroimaging to uncover distinct ADHD diagnostic patterns? 2. What methods can be used to analyse fMRI data to delineate active brain regions and their connections, and how can these findings be linked to ADHD behaviours and cognitive functions? 3. How can we refine AI models to handle high data dimensionality and heterogeneity and enhance decision-making transparency in clinical settings using Explainable AI (XAI) methods? 4. What are the best practices to assess the robustness of AI models against the variability in ADHD diagnostic data? This ambitious project will allow the student to engage in a groundbreaking study at the intersection of AI, neuropsychiatry, and healthcare and gain experience in a highly collaborative environment supported by a strong supervisory team and international experts. The research leverages our team's extensive background in neuro-developmental disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), where we recently discussed important brain regions related to ASD diagnosis (link) <https://arxiv.org/pdf/2409.15374>. This PhD opportunity offers a deep dive not only into the diagnosis of ADHD using explainable AI but also into other related *co-occurring* disorders like ASD, providing a holistic perspective on patient care and intervention strategies across the spectrum of these interrelated conditions. This project is suitable for students from a broad range of disciplines, including computer science and artificial intelligence. More details about the topic and *how to apply* are available at: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/postgraduate-research-stu… If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me Regards -------------------------------------------- *Dr. Amir Aly*, PhD, FHEA, SIEEE Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Programme Manager of Artificial Intelligence UK and Ireland IEEE RAS Chapter Vice Chair Director of the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS) School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics Room A307 Portland Square, Drake Circus, PL4 8AA University of Plymouth, UK

March 1, 2025

🎉 Applications Now Open for Neuromatch and Climatematch Academy! 🧪

by Courtney Dean

Hello! We're thrilled to announce our lineup of immersive courses at Neuromatch & Climatematch Academy <https://neuromatch.io/courses/>! Whether you're a student eager to dive into cutting-edge topics or a seasoned researcher looking to contribute as a Teaching Assistant, we have opportunities tailored for you. *Please forward this email to folks you think would be interested!* *3-week Courses (July 7-25):* - *Computational Neuroscience <https://neuromatch.io/computational-neuroscience-course/>:* Explore the intricacies of the brain's computational processes and join an engaging community of learners. - *Deep Learning <https://neuromatch.io/deep-learning-course/>:* Delve into the world of artificial intelligence to uncover the principles and applications of deep learning. *2-week Courses (July 14-25):* - *Computational Tools for Climate Science <https://neuromatch.io/computational-tools-for-climate-science-course/>*: Uncover the tools and techniques driving climate science research in this dynamic two-week course. - *NeuroAI <https://neuromatch.io/neuroai-course/>:* Explore the intersection of neuroscience and artificial intelligence through the lens of generalization. *Application Info:* - *Close:* Sunday, March 23rd, at midnight in your local time zone - *Decisions:* Mid-April - *Requirements:* - *Students* are expected to be familiar with Python and have foundational science skills in math/science. See course specific prerequisites here <https://portal.neuromatchacademy.org/>. - *Teaching Assistants* should have strong Python skills and a background in the relevant topic. See the course pages for more information. - *Link:* Apply Here <https://portal.neuromatchacademy.org/> *Additional Information:* - All courses are synchronous but will be conducted exclusively online, providing flexibility and accessibility. - Tuition fees are lower than those of other courses to make education affordable to everybody, no matter their financial background. They are also adjusted for national economic factors. Detailed information about course fees can be found here <https://neuromatchacademy.github.io/widgets/cola.html>. - Teaching Assistants will lead small groups of students, fostering collaborative learning. *TA positions offer financial compensation*; detailed rates can be found here <https://neuromatchacademy.github.io/widgets/ta_cola.html>. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to expand your knowledge, connect with experts in the field, and contribute to the success of our courses. Apply today and join us on a journey of discovery! Should you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us at nma(a)neuromatch.io. We look forward to welcoming you to the Neuromatch Academy family! *You can find flyers and outreach materials here <https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ghq9Mgt1DjdRDKOFRsgX0Q6K2BRtMjfI?us…>. Post a flyer! Share on social media! Forward this email! Support our efforts to democratize science.* Cheers, Courtney & The Academy Teams -- *Courtney Dean (she, her) * Program Director Schedule a meeting with me! <https://calendly.com/courtney-s-dean> c. 720.371.6559

Feb. 28, 2025

Final call: Spring School on Control Theory and Reinforcement Learning (March 17-21, 2025) at CWI, Amsterdam, NL

by Aditya Gilra

Dear all, Final call to register for the Spring School on Control Theory and Reinforcement Learning for starting PhD / advanced Master's students:Dates: March 17-21, 2025.Venue: CWI (Research Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science), Amsterdam, Netherlandshttps://www.cwi.nl/en/events/cwi-research-semester-programmes/spring-school-control-theory-and-reinforcement-learning/ Control theory and reinforcement learning share similar objectives, but have differed in their assumptions and approaches. This spring school emphasises connections across control theory, reinforcement learning and stochastic approximation, enabling students to access these broader themes and start to work on cross-cutting projects. The school will be at a preparatory PhD level, suitable for advanced Master's and starting PhD students in these areas. Distinguished Lecturers:Bert Kappen, Radboud Univ, Nijmegen, NetherlandsDebabrota Basu, Inria, Lille, FranceFrans Oliehoek, TU Delft, NetherlandsMaryam Kamgarpour, EPFL, Lausanne, SwitzerlandSean Meyn, Univ. of Florida, USA This school is part of a research semester programme on Control Theory and Reinforcement Learning at CWI, Amsterdam, NL, which comprises this Spring School (17-21 March), a Workshop on Themes (24-25 March), a Workshop on Modern Applications (20-21 May), and an upcoming one on Theory (19-20 June). Download and advertise the poster. Looking forward to seeing you!On behalf of the organizers.https://www.cwi.nl/en/events/cwi-research-semester-programs/control-theory-and-reinforcement/

Feb. 28, 2025

Workshop: "Collective Dynamics and Information Processing in Neural Systems" - Venice, Italy | June 30 - July 02

by Fabrizio Lombardi

Dear All, We invite applications to the workshop "Collective Dynamics and Information Processing in Neural Systems <https://liphlab.github.io/NeuroStatPhys_Satellite/>". The workshop will take place* in Venice, Italy, on 30 June - 02 July 2025* at the European Center for Living Technology (ECLT). Application deadline: *April 15, 2025*. *About the workshop* A longstanding question is how populations of neurons cooperate and coordinate to perform function and maintain an “optimal” state for information processing and computation. While electrophysiological recordings in behaving animals have provided considerable information about what the firing patterns of single neurons encode in isolation, it remains largely a mystery how populations of neurons interact to perform brain functions. How do emergent collective behaviors, such as neuronal oscillations, waves, or avalanches, support function? And what is the nature of the brain’s internal state and how that affects function? With the aim of further strengthening the connection between neuroscience and statistical physics, this satellite workshop is intended to gather neuroscientists, physicists, and mathematicians who work on collective dynamics, cognition and behavior, and provide an interdisciplinary stage to discuss recent theoretical/computational and experimental advances on the role of neural ensembles for brain function. The workshop will be carefully planned to foster discussion and interaction between attendees, and to encourage the establishment of professional relationships. Particular emphasis will be given to participation of young PI’s and scholars and to the diversity in the pool of participants, with a good balance between physicists, mathematicians, theoretical and experimental neuroscientists. *Topics that will be covered in this workshop include (but are not limited to):* - Dynamics of neuronal ensembles: theory and models - Encoding and decoding of neural ensembles - Learning and memory - Control theory and behavior - Statistical inference - Modeling of brain dynamics in health and disease - Criticality in neural systems *Confirmed invited speakers:* - Stefano Fusi (Columbia University) - Gašper Tkačik (IST Austria) - Dietmar Plenz (NIH) - Gianluigi Mongillo (Institut de la Vision) - Raffaella Burioni (University of Parma) - Henrik J. Jensen (Imperial College) - Francesca Mastrogiuseppe (Champalimaud Foundation) - Gaia Tavoni (Washington University in St Louis) - Luca Mazzucato (University of Oregon) - Carlotta Martelli (University Mainz) - Athena Akrami (University College London) - Federico Stella (Donders Institute) - Johannes Felsenberg (FMI Basel) - Ana Paula Millán Vidal (University of Granada) - Michele Allegra (University of Padova) For further information please check the workshop website https://liphlab.github.io/NeuroStatPhys_Satellite/ We hope to see you in Venice! The organizing committee, Fabrizio Lombardi, Lucilla de Arcangelis, Serena Di Santo, Samir Suweis, Ulisse Ferrari, Achille Giacometti, Guido Caldarelli, Elisa Tentori

Feb. 28, 2025

Re: Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroscience

by Fleur Zeldenrust

Dear Comp-neuro subscribers, My apologies, the link above does not appear to work, please use https://www.ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/postdoctoral-researcher-i… Best regards, Fleur Zeldenrust On Wed, Feb 26, 2025 at 5:14 PM Fleur Zeldenrust < f.zeldenrust(a)neurophysiology.nl> wrote: > *My lab is looking for a computational neuroscience postdoctoral > researcher:* > > http://ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/postdoctoral-researcher-in-com… > > > For the Vidi project ‘Top-down neuromodulation and bottom-up network > computation,’ we seek a postdoc to study neuromodulators in efficient > spike-coding networks. Using our lab’s data on dopamine, acetylcholine, and > serotonin from the mouse barrel cortex, you’ll derive models connecting > single cells, networks, and behavior. > > The aim of this project is to explain the effects of neuromodulation on > task performance in biologically realistic spiking recurrent neural > networks (SRNNs). You will use the efficient spike coding framework > <https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1003…>, > in which a network is not trained by a learning paradigm but deduced using > mathematically rigorous rules that enforce efficient coding > <https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008…>(i.e. > maximally informative spikes). You will study how the network’s structural > properties such as neural heterogeneity influence decoding performance and > efficiency. You will incorporate realistic network properties of the > (barrel) cortex based on our lab’s measurements > <https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12021-022-09576-5> and > incorporate the cellular effects of dopamine, acetylcholine and serotonin > <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://doi.org/10.1101…>we > have measured > <https://academic.oup.com/gigascience/article/7/12/giy147/5232232> over > the past years into the network, to investigate their effects on > representations, network activity measures such as dimensionality, and > decoding performance. You will build on the single cell data, network > models and analysis methods available in our group, and your results will > be incorporated into our group’s further research to develop and validate > efficient coding models of (somatosensory) perception. Therefore, we are > looking for a team player who is willing to learn from the other group > members and to share their knowledge with them. > > *Profile* > > - You hold a PhD in computational neuroscience, mathematics, physics, > computer science, AI or a similar computational field. > - You have experience working with coding models in computational > neuroscience and can perform network simulations, analytical derivations > and advanced data analysis. > - You are a highly motivated, independent, critical and creative > researcher who wants to bridge the gap between real data and abstract > theoretical models. > - You are a team player, ready to collaborate in a diverse, > multidisciplinary research group. > - You have an excellent command of spoken and written English. > - You have coding experience (in Python and/or Matlab) > > You will be appointed at the Biophysics of Neural Computation group > <https://www.ru.nl/en/departments/donders-centre-for-neuroscience/biophysics…> > , Donders Center for Neuroscience > <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-centre-for-neuroscience>, Donders Institute > for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour > <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-institute>. This vibrant and > multidisciplinary institute studies the organisation and function of neural > circuits across scales and techniques, from genes and proteins to behaviour > and from in vitro and in vivo experiments to computational modelling. It is > an open and international environment, where young scientists from > different backgrounds share a fascination for the interaction between brain > structure and function. There is a lively community > <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-institute/talent-development/postdoc-support> of > postdoctoral researchers who are provided with specialised support. > > *We offer* > > - We will give you a temporary employment contract of 26 months. > - Your salary within salary scale 10 > <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.ru.nl/en/st…>depends > on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work > experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week. > - You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year > bonus. > - You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can > choose between 30 or 41 days > <https://www.ru.nl/en/staff/services/employment-conditions/working-time/flex…> > of annual leave instead of the statutory 20. > > Fleur Zeldenrust > > -- > Fleur Zeldenrust > Associate Professor > Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour > Donders Centre for Neuroscience > Faculty of Science, Radboud University > Heyendaalseweg 135, room HG 00.111 > 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands > tel +31 24 36 53195 > fleurzeldenrust.nl > > *Due to my own family/work balance, you may receive emails from me outside > of normal working hours. I do not expect a response from you outside of > your own working pattern, nor do I expect an immediate response when you > are working.* > > -- Fleur Zeldenrust Associate Professor Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour Donders Centre for Neuroscience Faculty of Science, Radboud University Heyendaalseweg 135, room HG 00.111 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands tel +31 24 36 53195 fleurzeldenrust.nl *Due to my own family/work balance, you may receive emails from me outside of normal working hours. I do not expect a response from you outside of your own working pattern, nor do I expect an immediate response when you are working.*

Feb. 27, 2025

Launching Heidelberg Open Lab

by Mateusz Kostecki

Hello! I am very happy to announce that we are launching a German node of the Nencki Open Lab (www.nenckiopenlab.org) project. Our goal is to create a local community of neuroscientists, organize workshops on topics ranging from programming and data analysis, through electronics, 3D printing, Arduino to optics and microscopy, symposia,a and summer schools. We will be operating in Heidelberg, Mannheim and Frabkfurt. We organize a kick-off meeting on March 18th at COS, Heidelberg Uni - https://openlabhd.org/2025/02/19/heidelberg-open-lab-kick-off-meeting/. Scientists from all levels of academic career are welcome to join us! Best, Mateusz Kostecki -- --- Mateusz Kostecki PhD Student Knapska Laboratory Nencki Institute 02-093 Warsaw, Pasteura 3, Poland https://twitter.com/mtkostecki https://evolvingbehavior.blog/

Feb. 27, 2025

GEM 2025 - Abstract submission deadline 15.03.25

by Vinita Samarasinghe

*REMINDER*: Abstract submission deadline for *GEM 2025* is on *15.03.25*. Please have your submissions in by the deadline. https://www.conftool.net/gem202 <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>5/ <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>. The DFG-funded research consortium “FOR 2812 – Constructing scenarios of the past” is proud to announce a *call for abstracts* for its biennial conference “/Generative Episodic Memory: Interdisciplinary persepectives from neuroscience, psychology and philosophy/” *GEM 202**5.* It will be held *in person* at the Ruhr University Bochum, Germany from 2^nd to 4^th June, 2025. For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025. Episodic memories are widely regarded as memories of personally experienced events. Early concepts about episodic memory were based on the storage model, according to which experiential content is preserved in memory and later retrieved. However, overwhelming empirical evidence suggests that the content of episodic memory is – at least to a certain degree – constructed in the act of remembering. Even though very few contemporary researchers would oppose this view of episodic memory as a generative process, it has not become the standard paradigm of empirical memory research. This is particularly true for studies of the neural correlates of episodic memory. Further hindering progress are large conceptual differences regarding episodic memory across different fields, such as neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology. This interdisciplinary conference therefore aims to bring together researchers from all relevant fields to advance the state of the art in the research on generative episodic memory. *Keynote speakers: * Ali Boyle (LSE); Neil Burgess (UCL); Iris Engelhard (U. Utrecht); Johannes Mahr (York U.); Jeremy Manning (Dartmouth) *Funding for early career researchers is available *(visit our ECR page <https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025/early_career_researcher_programs> for more details). *Abstract* submission deadline: 15.03.2025 Submission guidelines: Abstracts must be submitted in English and be no longer than 500 words. Submitted work must be original and unpublished and submitted electronically at https://www.conftool.net/gem202 <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>5/ <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>. Types of submissions: * Talk * Symposium: Must comprise 3 talks and be interdisciplinary in nature, i.e., talks must cover at least two of the following disciplines: computational neuroscience, philosophy, psychology, neuroscience. * Poster /*For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de or contact Vinita Samarasinghe at for2812(a)rub.de */ Follow us on bluesky @for2812.bsky.social/* */ <https://bsky.app/for2812.bsky.social> Kind regards, Vinita Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience <https://rub.de/cns> Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email: samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de

Feb. 27, 2025

Conference Invitation GRS - inhibition in the CNS!

by Vissers, Nicole

Join Us for the 2025 GRC and GRS on Inhibition in the CNS! The 2025 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Inhibition in the Central Nervous System (CNS) this year is taking place July 5–6, 2025 (GRS) and July 6–11, 2025 (GRC). The GRC will explore inhibition's role in neural circuits related to behavior, focusing on interneuron subtypes, inhibitory synapse organization, sensory processing, memory, and computational approaches. It will also cover inhibition in the adult neurogenic niche, model organisms like mice and primates, and its role in neuropsychiatric disorders. The GRS, for early-career researchers, will focus on subcortical GABAergic neurons, glial and neuromodulatory inhibition, and computational analyses. It offers networking, mentorship, and presentation opportunities, promoting collaboration before the main GRC event. Both events aim to foster idea exchange and scientific collaboration. We look forward to seeing you in Maine for a week of science, collaboration, and community. Don't miss this chance to connect with global leaders in the field of inhibitory neuroscience! For more information, visit: GRS: https://www.grc.org/inhibition-in-the-cns-grs-conference/2025/ GRC: https://www.grc.org/inhibition-in-the-cns-conference/2025/ Or feel free to contact GRS Chair, Nicole Vissers: n.vissers(a)ucl.ac.uk

Feb. 27, 2025

Global Research & Entrepreneurship Summit on Open Problems for AI. Tokyo, Japan, 9-11th April 2025 at the Miraikan Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.

by Ruairidh Battleday

Global Summit on Open Problems for AI. Miraikan Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, Tokyo, Japan, 9-11th April 2025. What are the next set of challenges for AI algorithms? What are the open problems in regulation & application? We are most excited to announce the Algorithmic Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Summit on Open Problems for AI <http://www.algopreneurship.ai>. Miraikan Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, Tokyo, Japan, 9-11th April 2025. Join world-leading AI researchers, policy makers, and entrepreneurs in this global Summit over three days of keynote talks, panels, and breakout sessions. Day 1 - Algorithms We ask what the fundamental challenges for developing AI algorithms are, as well as promising avenues for overcoming them. We’ll be hearing from Dr Shane Gu (Google DeepMind), Dr Taro Toyoizumi (Riken CBS), Dr Kai Arulkumaran (Araya Inc.), Dr Emityaz Khan (Riken AIP), Professor Masanori Koyama (University of Tokyo), Dr James Whittington (Stanford & Oxford University & Zyphra), Dr Lucy Lai (Harvard University), Dr Yusuke Iwasawa (University of Tokyo) Panel on “Is this the end of Scale?” Panel on “How should we fund AI research?” Day 2 - Ethics We ask what the fundamental ethical challenges and opportunities are for AI. Keynotes: Professor Yuko Harayam (Tohoku University; GPAI), Professor Arisa Ema (University of Tokyo & RIKEN CAIP), Dr Colin Rowat (Rakuten, Cambridge), Dr Joe Ledsam (Google Health), Kenny Song (Citadel AI) Panel: Micro Ethics - What Can Individual Researchers Do for Ethical AI? Chair: Nicolay Hagen (NTNU) Panel: Meso Ethics - What Can Organizations Do for Ethical AI? Chair: Professor Skyler Wang (McGill) Panel: Macro Ethics - If AI is the answer, what is the question? Chair: Dr Collin Conwell (Johns Hopkins) Day 3 - Applications and entrepreneurship We ask what the fundamental challenges and opportunities are in applications for social good and entrepreneurship. Keynotes: Professor Yukie Nagai (University of Tokyo), Professor Dan V. Nicolau Jr (Kings College London), Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday (Harvard & MIT), Dr Aran Komatsuzaki (Eleuther AI), Dr Conglong Li (Google Deepmind), Takahiro Matsumoto (Cisco / Robust Intelligence), Dr Jungo Kasai (Kotoba Tech) This should be an exciting and productive event, and we expect an audience of 400 of the world’s best AI researchers and entrepreneurs at student, early-stage, and full career levels. Student tickets: $20 for all three days Scientist & Entrepreneur tickets: $20 per day Corporate tickets: $100 per day Reserve your place now! <http://www.algopreneurship.ai> Ruairidh <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruairidh-battleday-648a2b65/>, <https://www.jcrwhittington.com/>Lucy <https://lucylai.com/>, James <https://www.jcrwhittington.com/>, and Dan <https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/dan-nicolau> Thinking About Thinking <https://www.thinkingaboutthinking.org/>

Feb. 27, 2025

Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroscience

by Fleur Zeldenrust

*My lab is looking for a computational neuroscience postdoctoral researcher:* http://ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/postdoctoral-researcher-in-com… For the Vidi project ‘Top-down neuromodulation and bottom-up network computation,’ we seek a postdoc to study neuromodulators in efficient spike-coding networks. Using our lab’s data on dopamine, acetylcholine, and serotonin from the mouse barrel cortex, you’ll derive models connecting single cells, networks, and behavior. The aim of this project is to explain the effects of neuromodulation on task performance in biologically realistic spiking recurrent neural networks (SRNNs). You will use the efficient spike coding framework <https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1003…>, in which a network is not trained by a learning paradigm but deduced using mathematically rigorous rules that enforce efficient coding <https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008…>(i.e. maximally informative spikes). You will study how the network’s structural properties such as neural heterogeneity influence decoding performance and efficiency. You will incorporate realistic network properties of the (barrel) cortex based on our lab’s measurements <https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12021-022-09576-5> and incorporate the cellular effects of dopamine, acetylcholine and serotonin <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://doi.org/10.1101…>we have measured <https://academic.oup.com/gigascience/article/7/12/giy147/5232232> over the past years into the network, to investigate their effects on representations, network activity measures such as dimensionality, and decoding performance. You will build on the single cell data, network models and analysis methods available in our group, and your results will be incorporated into our group’s further research to develop and validate efficient coding models of (somatosensory) perception. Therefore, we are looking for a team player who is willing to learn from the other group members and to share their knowledge with them. *Profile* - You hold a PhD in computational neuroscience, mathematics, physics, computer science, AI or a similar computational field. - You have experience working with coding models in computational neuroscience and can perform network simulations, analytical derivations and advanced data analysis. - You are a highly motivated, independent, critical and creative researcher who wants to bridge the gap between real data and abstract theoretical models. - You are a team player, ready to collaborate in a diverse, multidisciplinary research group. - You have an excellent command of spoken and written English. - You have coding experience (in Python and/or Matlab) You will be appointed at the Biophysics of Neural Computation group <https://www.ru.nl/en/departments/donders-centre-for-neuroscience/biophysics…> , Donders Center for Neuroscience <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-centre-for-neuroscience>, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-institute>. This vibrant and multidisciplinary institute studies the organisation and function of neural circuits across scales and techniques, from genes and proteins to behaviour and from in vitro and in vivo experiments to computational modelling. It is an open and international environment, where young scientists from different backgrounds share a fascination for the interaction between brain structure and function. There is a lively community <https://www.ru.nl/en/donders-institute/talent-development/postdoc-support> of postdoctoral researchers who are provided with specialised support. *We offer* - We will give you a temporary employment contract of 26 months. - Your salary within salary scale 10 <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.ru.nl/en/st…>depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week. - You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus. - You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days <https://www.ru.nl/en/staff/services/employment-conditions/working-time/flex…> of annual leave instead of the statutory 20. Fleur Zeldenrust -- Fleur Zeldenrust Associate Professor Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour Donders Centre for Neuroscience Faculty of Science, Radboud University Heyendaalseweg 135, room HG 00.111 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands tel +31 24 36 53195 fleurzeldenrust.nl *Due to my own family/work balance, you may receive emails from me outside of normal working hours. I do not expect a response from you outside of your own working pattern, nor do I expect an immediate response when you are working.*

Feb. 26, 2025

Deadline extended: Transatlantic Behavioural Neuroscience School, Argentina, Aug 11-22 2025

by Mateusz Kostecki

Hello! We are happy to announce that we have extended the deadline for application to Transatlantic Behavioral Neuroscience School till March 2nd! During our school you will learn how to deliver stimuli or modify the environment in which the animal is embedded with Arduino-based devices and Bonsai code; you will design and 3D-print cases and holders for your instruments. And then you will apply cutting-edge tools (like Deeplabcut or CEBRA) – to extract as much information as possible from your data. But that’s not everything. At TBNS you will listen to fascinating lectures and interact with speakers, who explored bold ideas and made their unique career paths. You will look at what behavior is through many lenses. Most importantly though, you will meet people with similar interests and goals. And you may become a part of our global Open Lab community, and help us to spread the knowledge further! More information and the application form can be found here - https://nenckiopenlab.org/tbns2025/. The deadline for application is Feb 25th, the fee is EUR 1500 but we have secured funding for fee waivers and travel grants if needed. With best wishes, TBNS Team -- --- Mateusz Kostecki PhD Student Knapska Laboratory Nencki Institute 02-093 Warsaw, Pasteura 3, Poland https://twitter.com/mtkostecki https://evolvingbehavior.blog/

Feb. 25, 2025

6th International Conference on Mathematics of Neuroscience and AI (Split, Croatia, 27-30 May 2025) - abstract submission extended to 16th March

by Ruairidh Battleday

We are extending abstract submissions for this year’s Conference on Mathematics of Neuroscience and AI to March 16th AOE: www.neuromonster.org In this high-profile conference we hear about new computational theories of the brain and mind, as well as data that challenges old theories. We then take findings and theory back into the creation of robust, generalizable, and scalable AI. We hear from leading researchers over four days, spanning biocomputation, neural theory, cognitive science, and machine learning & artificial intelligence (AI): Keynote Speakers Professor Wolfgang Maas (Graz), Professor Eve Marder (Brandeis), Professor Jay McClelland (Stanford), Professor Christine Constantinople (NYU), Dr Kim Stachenfeld (DeepMind), Professor Kanaka Rajan (Harvard), Dr Ida Momennejad (Microsoft Research), Professor Jacob Foerster (Oxford / Meta). Session Chairs Dr Valeria Fascianelli (Columbia; Biocomputation) Dr Francesca Mignacco (CUNY & Princeton; Biocomputation) Yasmine Ayman (Harvard; Neural theory) Dr James Whittington (Oxford & Stanford; Neural theory) Professor Bill Thompson (UC Berkeley; Cognitive science) Dr Maria Eckstein (DeepMind; Cognitive science) Mikey Lepori (Brown & DeepMind; Machine learning & AI) Professor Ilia Sucholutsky (NYU; Machine learning & AI) Invited Speakers Professor Alex Cayco-Gajic (ENS) Dr Jenelle Feather (Flatiron Institute) Dr Joao Barbosa (Institute for Neuromodulation) Tejas Ramdas (Harvard) Professor Vijay Namdoodiri (UCSF) Professor Annegret Falkner (Princeton) Dr Chen Sun (Mila) Dr Chris Hillar (New Theory AI) Professor Bonan Zhao (Edinburgh) Professor Lisa-Marie Vortmann (Groningen) Dr Felix Sosa (Harvard) Dr Lio Wong (MIT) Location The conference will be held at Croatia’s National Opera Theatre in Split, 10 minutes walk from the ancient harbour. Split is served by two nearby international airports (Split and Dubrovnik) with low-price carriers as well as several ferry lines from the wider Mediterranean. Submissions The submission format is an abstract of 250 words, and we invite submissions for each session via the following Google form: https://forms.gle/a9JDH5B4Z5otS69Y7 These will be accepted for poster, with the best 6 papers in each session category given an additional spotlight talk. Submission deadline is 16th March AOE. We have a very open acceptance policy, and are happy to hear about relevant work that has been submitted to other events. Early bird tickets A limited number of early-bird registrations have been posted on our website! Normal registration will follow after the submission deadline. Come and join the fun! Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday (Harvard & MIT) Dr James Whittington (Oxford & Stanford) Dr Ivana Kaljc (DeepMind) Professor Dan V. Nicolau Jr (Kings College London) The Organizing Committee. -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD President Thinking About Thinking (www.thinkingaboutthinking.org) Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Feb. 25, 2025

Qualia Structure - Integrated Information Theory Summer School 2025

by Larissa Albantakis

*Deadline of application: Mar 14, 2025 * The QStr (Qualia Structure) - IIT (Integrated Information Theory) Summer School offers an exciting opportunity for students, post-doctoral fellows and junior faculty scholars from around the world to explore the intersection of qualitative aspects of consciousness (or qualia) and scientific objectivity. This event is scheduled to take place in Venice and Bertinoro, Italy from October 5 to 17, 2025. Here is the link to the overview homepage, from which one can apply for it. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hFmabi5KJQRfocvwhXAehIkwFxrCp_Touxp9-Sn… <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hFmabi5KJQR…> Participating faculty Larissa Albantakis Melanie Boly Matteo Grasso Yuko Ishihara Christof Koch William Marshall Lucia Melloni Hedda Hassel Mørch Masafumi Oizumi Steve Philliips Hayato Saigo Giulio Tononi Naotsugu Tsuchiya Makiko Yamada

Feb. 24, 2025

Apply Now: FRCCS 2025 Awards for Early-Career Researchers in Complex Systems

by Hocine Cherifi

CSS France invites applications for the *Bertalanffy Doctoral Student Award* and the *Thom Young Researcher Award*, recognizing outstanding early-career researchers in *Complex Systems*. 🏆 *Bertalanffy Doctoral Student Award* (for Ph.D. candidates under 30) 🔗 Details & Application <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/call-doctoral-student-award/> 🏆 *Thom Young Researcher Award* (for researchers ≤5 years post-Ph.D., under 35) 🔗 Details & Application <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/call-young-resarcher-award/> 📅 *Deadline:* March 11, 2025 💰 *Prizes:* €500 (Doctoral) / €1,000 (Young Researcher) + FRCCS 2025 presentation opportunity 🚀 *Don’t miss this chance to showcase your research in Complex Systems at FRCCS 2025—apply now!* Best, HC Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025 <https://complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/>

Feb. 24, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Songting Li, Shanghai Jiao Tong University

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Songting Li Shanghai Jiao Tong University Timescale localization and signal propagation in the large-scale cortical network The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * In the brain, while early sensory areas encode and process external inputs rapidly, higher-association areas are endowed with slow dynamics to benefit information accumulation over time. This property raises the question of why diverse timescales are well localized rather than being mixed up across the cortex, despite high connection density and an abundance of feedback loops that support reliable signal propagation. In this talk, we will address this question by analyzing a large-scale network model of the primate cortex, and we identify a novel dynamical regime termed "interference-free propagation". In this regime, the mean components of the synaptic currents to each downstream area are imbalanced to ensure signals to propagate reliably, while the temporally fluctuating components of the synaptic inputs governed by upstream areas' timescales are largely canceled out, leading to the localization of its own timescale in each downstream area. Our result provides new insights into the operational regime of the cortex, leading to the coexistence of hierarchical timescale localization and reliable signal propagation. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.*

Feb. 23, 2025

Two postdoctoral research positions in Active Inference at the University of Cape Town

by Jonathan Shock

Postdoctoral Positions in Active InferenceUniversity of Cape Town, South Africa The Shocklab research group in conjunction with the Neuropsychology research group at the University of Cape Town (UCT) is seeking two postdoctoral researchers to join our dynamic team working on Active Inference in relation to affective consciousness. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of computational, cognitive and affective neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, in collaboration with leading researchers in the field including Dr Ryan Smith at the Laureate Institute and lr Charel Van Hoof MBA at TU Delft. About the Position - Duration: One year with possibility of one- or two-year extension - Start Date: Immediate availability - Salary: R540,000 per year, tax free (equivalent to around R740,000 per annum, taxed) - Location: University of Cape Town, South Africa Research Environment Our research group combines expertise in consciousness studies, Active Inference, and Reinforcement Learning, with leads: - Associate Professor Jonathan Shock, Director of the UCT AI Initiative, head of Shocklab and Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. - Professor Mark Solms, Professor in Neuropsychology, author of "The Hidden Spring" and collaborator with Karl Friston on consciousness and Active Inference. The group currently includes two Masters students, one PhD student and one postdoc, all working on Active Inference in foraging environments in the presence of competing needs. The Shocklab group also has a large number of graduate students working on Reinforcement Learning. Graduate student supervision would be an important part of the postdoctoral role. The work is jointly located in the UCT Neuroscience Institute and the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. Project Description The research focuses on studying single and multi-agent Active Inference agents in dynamic environments in which agents must learn to satisfy competing ‘survival’ needs. This programme has a sophisticated inference/sophisticated learning/tree-search focus. The overarching aim is to gain insights into affective consciousness, attention, and need prioritization. This work is supported by donor funding from Conscium, UK. Computing Resources - Access to UCT High Performance Computing cluster - Dedicated Shocklab cluster featuring two RTX 4090 GPUs Required Qualifications - PhD, preferably obtained within the last five years - Strong research background in Active Inference - Programming expertise, particularly in JAX (preferred) Benefits - Competitive salary (R540,000 tax free per year) - Funding for at least one international conference per year, and potential extended research visit at the Laureate Institiute - Opportunity to work in one of the world's most beautiful cities About UCT and Cape Town The University of Cape Town is Africa's leading university, situated at the foot of Table Mountain. The institution has a rich research history and is currently accelerating its research initiatives in AI. Cape Town offers an exceptional quality of life with incredible natural beauty and a flourishing scientific environment. A living costs calculator can be found here: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Cape-Town Application Process Please submit the following materials: - Cover letter and CV - Research history - Future research plans on Active Inference - Three letters of reference Application Deadline: March 15th, 2025 Interviews: late March/early April 2025 Contact: jonathan.shock(a)uct.ac.za with Subject: "ActInf postdoc"

Feb. 23, 2025

Postdoctoral Research Fellow: EEG Brain-computer Interface, University of Birmingham

by Howard Bowman

Postdoctoral Research Fellow: EEG Brain-computer Interface, a Brainwave-based Visual Acuity Test Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology and School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham Closes: 6th March 2025 JOB-DESCRIPTION: The Fringe-P3 method (Bowman et al, 2013; Alsufyani et al, 2019) developed out of a line of theoretical work focussed on temporal attention and perception on the fringe of awareness (Bowman & Wyble, 2007; Craston et al, 2009; Avilés et al, 2020). The method provides a means to present a large number of visual stimuli very rapidly to a participant's brain and then determine with EEG, which of those stimuli the participant finds salient. The method has been proposed as a deception detector, specifically, a (countermeasures-resistant) concealed-knowledge test (Bowman et al, 2013, 2014; Alsufyani et al, 2019; Harris et al, 2021; see https://sms.cam.ac.uk/media/2077487/) Previous projects with the company Visionmetric (https://visionmetric.com/) used the Fringe-P3 method to develop a system for extracting the memory of a face. This is done by generating a facial morph that is a weighted average of the faces presented in rapid serial visual presentation, with weight determined by the strength of the P3 that face generated. The Research Fellow being advertised will be employed on a recently awarded MRC Impact Acceleration account at the University of Birmingham, with two companies: Visionmetric and Advanced Ophthalmic Systems (https://aos-hub.com/) This will take the Fringe-P3 method and develop it as an objective visual-acuity test, called the Acuity-P3. Many groups, such as young children, those with learning difficulties and dementia patients find it hard to follow the instructions required to complete a standard visual-acuity test (such as a Snellen chart). As a result, clinical decisions, such as whether to perform cataract surgery, often have to be made without a reliable assessment of vision. We will develop a system by which a brain response (the P3) can be used as an objective measure that a letter has been read. This will provide an objective visual-acuity test, not dependent upon a subjective response. We will also improve the efficiency with which P3s are detected with machine learning and will explore alternative detection modalities, such as pupil dilation. At the University of Birmingham, the work will be undertaken within the School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, with involvement from the School of Computer Science (where the PI, Bowman, also has an appointment). PERSON SPECIFICATION: Batchelors (and potentially also Masters) degree, as well as a PhD or equivalent qualification in Computer Science, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), Psychology, Neuroscience, or related subjects. Candidates with equivalent industrial experience would also be within scope. Strong programming skills, with experience of or the capacity to learn how to program in Python and C++. Experience of neuroimaging, including data collection, or the capacity to learn such methods. Fluency or capacity to become fluent in relevant models, techniques and methods, e.g. Fieldtrip, Statistical Parametric Mapping, EEG-lab, and ability to contribute to developing new methods. Informal enquiries can be made to Professor Howard Bowman and H.Bowman(a)bham.ac.uk. Full application details can be found here: https://edzz.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_6… Alsufyani, A., Hajilou, O., Zoumpoulaki, A., Filetti, M., Alsufyani, H., Solomon, C. J., ... & Bowman, H. (2019). Breakthrough percepts of famous faces. Psychophysiology, 56(1). Avilés, A., Bowman, H., & Wyble, B. (2020). On the limits of evidence accumulation of the preconscious percept. Cognition, 195, 104080. Bowman, H., Filetti, M., Janssen, D., Su, L., Alsufyani, A., & Wyble, B. (2013). Subliminal salience search illustrated: EEG identity and deception detection on the fringe of awareness. PLoS One, 8(1). Bowman, H., Filetti, M., Alsufyani, A., Janssen, D., & Su, L. (2014). Countering countermeasures: Detecting identity lies by detecting conscious breakthrough. PloS one, 9(3), e90595. Bowman, H., & Wyble, B. (2007). The simultaneous type, serial token model of temporal attention and working memory. Psychological review, 114(1), 38. Craston, P., Wyble, B., Chennu, S. & Bowman, H. "The attentional blink reveals serial working memory encoding: Evidence from virtual & human event-related potentials." Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 21(3):550-566, March 2009. Harris, K., Miller, C., Jose, B., Beech, A., Woodhams, J., & Bowman, H. (2021). Breakthrough percepts of online identity: Detecting recognition of email addresses on the fringe of awareness. European Journal of Neuroscience, 53(3), 895-901. -------------------------------------------- Howard Bowman (PhD) Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience in Psychology and Computer Science at the University of Birmingham Honorary Professor of Imaging Neuroscience at Functional Imaging Lab, University College London email: H.Bowman(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:H.Bowman@bham.ac.uk> WWW: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/psychology/bowman-howard ?Howard Bowman - ?Google Scholar<https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=pcKQix4AAAAJ&hl=en> School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK Research Groups: Neuroimaging Methods and AI, Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham Perception, Language and Action, Computer Science, University of Birmingham PLORAS (Predicting Language Outcomes and Recovery After Stroke), Functional Imaging Lab, University College London

Feb. 22, 2025

Fwd: [seminar.wwtns] Summer School NeuroBridges2025 | In partnership with VVTNS series

by David Hansel

* NeuroBridges 2025* *A Mediterranean, Middle Eastern Summer School in Neuroscience* *Deadline to apply: April 15, 2025* NeuroBridges 2025 is a summer school which will take place between September 7 and September 18, 2025 in Le Centre de Conferences Internationales de Cluny, France (CCIC) <https://streaklinks.com/B3KEKFd397UPDx5n8gyfD1BJ/https%3A%2F%2Fcollegecluny…> . The school will provide an overview of theoretical and experimental frameworks used to study a variety of decision making processes. It will cover different model systems from rodents to humans and a plethora of decision making mechanisms. Another objective of NeuroBridges is to bring together Mediterranean and Middle Eastern scientists, in order to promote scientific cooperation between young researchers from these countries. The organizers of NeuroBridges are convinced that such scientific collaborations can lead to personal relations, which eventually may alleviate the political distress in the Middle East. The school is intended for graduate students and postdocs, primarily, but not only, from the Middle East and the Mediterranean region, either working in their home countries or abroad. Applicants should have some background in related fields in neuroscience or cognitive psychology. All costs of registration and accommodation will be covered by the organizers. A limited number of travel grants will also be available. *Faculty:* - Alaa Ahmed (U. Colorado) <https://www.colorado.edu/mechanical/alaa-ahmed> - Rava Azeredo da Silveira (IOB) <https://www.silveira-lab.com/rava-azeredo-da-silveira> - Ahmed El Hady (Max Planck Institute) <https://www.ab.mpg.de/person/111828> - David Hansel (CNRS) <https://incc-paris.fr/people/david-hansel/> - Mehdi Khamassi (CNRS) <https://pages.isir.upmc.fr/mkhamassi/> - Carole Levenes (CNRS) <https://incc-paris.fr/people/carole-levenes/> - Yonatan Loewenstein (Hebrew U.) <https://elsc.huji.ac.il/people-directory/faculty-members/yonatan-loewenstei…> - Zach Mainen (Champalimaud), TBC <https://mainenlab.org/> - Israel Nelken (Hebrew U.) <https://elsc.huji.ac.il/people-directory/faculty-members/israel-nelken/> - Drazen Prelec (MIT) <https://mitsloan.mit.edu/faculty/directory/drazen-prelec> - Reza Shadmehr (John Hopkins U.) <https://www.shadmehrlab.org/> NeuroBridges is co-organized by Ahmed El Hady (Max Planck Institute), David Hansel (CNRS, Paris), Yonatan Loewenstein (Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel), Carole Levenes (CNRS, Paris), Shir Shapira (Hebrew University of Jerusalem). NeuroBridges 2025 is supported by the Simons Foundation, the Cyril Taylor Charitable FoundationELSC, and is in partnership with VVTNS ( https://www.wwtns.online/) For more information and application, visit our website: https://neurobridges.net/

Feb. 20, 2025

Registration open for the NSF-Simons NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference 11-14 August 2025 Chicago IL

by William L. Kath

*The NSF-Simons NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference 11-14 August 2025 Chicago, IL Registration, Abstract Submission and Travel Award Applications now open!* More details at https://www.nitmb.org/nitmb-mathbio-convergence-conference We are calling for talks and posters discussing challenging problems in biology that are inspiring new mathematics, statistics, theory and computation, and mathematics that is generating important new insights into biology. If you are a mathematician working on biology or a biologist using mathematics, or just someone who would like to learn more about research at the interface between mathematics and biology, we encourage you to attend. * *Registration:* The number of attendees at the conference is finite. We are asking participants to pay a small fee ($100) to hold their place. * *Abstracts:* Register before 15 April if you would like to submit an abstract. * *Travel Awards:* We are proud to offer travel award to students and early career researchers. A brief application is required for consideration - deadline April 15. * Travel awards fund up to $650 for domestic travel and $800 for intercontinental travel, plus reimbursement for local hotel costs and for meals not provided by the conference (gsa.gov rates apply). Award recipients must lodge at The Drake Hotel (140 East Walton Place Chicago, IL 60611) to receive reimbursement. *Registration/submission steps:* 1. Register at https://www.nitmb.org/nitmb-mathbio-convergence-conference 2. Upon entering your information, you will be directed to a payment site. 3. After confirmation of payment (please note your confirmation number), you will be sent links with which to submit an abstract and/or apply for a travel award. If you have questions, please email nitmb(a)nitmb.org I_mportant Dates:_ Abstract Submission April 15, 2025 Travel Award Application April 15, 2025 Early Registration (to be considered for a presentation) ($100) February 15 - April 15, 2025 Notification of selection for an Oral Talk or a Poster Late May Regular Registration (no presentation) ($100) February 15 - July 14, 2025 Late Registration ($200) July 15 - August 4, 2025 Hotel Registration (at the Drake) Mid-April - July 15, 2025 *Confirmed plenary speakers:* *Alexander Auhlela, The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)* Dr. Aulehla uses dynamical systems to study how a vertebrate embryo forms the unique number of body segments that make up the vertebrae. *Carina Curto, Brown University* Dr. Curto combines mathematical tools from algebra, geometry, topology and dynamical systems to elucidate complex patterns of activity in networks of neurons. *Lorin Crawford, Microsoft Research and Brown University* Dr. Crawford uses machine learning and statistical tools to study the genotype-to-phenotype map for complex traits and diseases. *Michael Hawrylycz, The Allen Institute* Dr. Hawrylycz studies the cellular constitution and organization of the brain using single-cell transcriptomics and cutting-edge computational and statistical tools. *Anna-Liisa Laine, University of Helsinki* Dr. Laine studies complex problems in ecology across a spectrum of length and time scales. *Reidun Twarock, University of York* Dr. Twarock uses mathematics to study the symmetries of animal viruses and how they self-assemble inside host cells.

Feb. 19, 2025

First Meeting of the Society for Philosophy and Neuroscience

by James Bower

I thought some on this list might be interested in knowing about the first annual meeting for the newly formed Society for Philosophy and Neuroscience, to be held May 1-3, 2025 at Washington University in St. Lewis, Missouri, USA. https://www.philandneuro.com/?utm_campaign=e5e3edd6-f129-4005-9ca3-804ea034… HOME | SPAN philandneuro.com Just FYI, I will be part of a symposium considering: "What can we learn about current neuroscience practice from its history." I was considering giving a talk on what you can and can’t learn about the brain using AI, but decided instead to discuss: Correlation as a substitute for causality: how FMRI has reinforced correlation-based story telling in neuroscience and in the process the cerebellum has replaced 42 as the answer to everything. According to Goggle’s AI overview, the function of the cerebellum includes motor coordination, balance and posture, motor learning, attention, memory and emotional regulation. The AI bott missed: sleep, stress, thirst, hyperactivity, psychosis, schizophrenia, autism, epilepsy, urinary tract function, mutism, language acquisition, and much more. In 1996, I published an FMRI study in Science that is generally regarded as providing the first evidence that the 150 year assumption that the cerebellum was only a motor control device was incorrect. In fact, that study was designed to test whether the cerebellum was involved in motor control at all, based on predictions made by realistic computational models built from experimental evidence (i.e. non-Ptolemaic models). So what has happened since? This talk will consider how fMRI, employed as the ultimate correlation seeking technique, has distorted not only our understanding of the overall function of the cerebellum, but has also, in effect, undermined and distorted basic neuroscientific study of this remarkable structure. As such, epistemologically, the cerebellum may represent the ultimate example of what is wrong with neuroscience as well as how it can be fixed. Best to all in troubling times, Jim Dr. James M. Bower Ph.D. 541-499-7502 Simulating a 17th century landed gentry scientist. Also: Affiliate Professor of Biology Southern Oregon University Visiting Professor of Computational Neuroscience Biocomputation Research Group School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science University of Hertfordshire, UK Linked in <https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-m-bower-130163/> Wikipedia <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_M._Bower>

Feb. 19, 2025

IRMA: Machine learning-based harmonization of 18F-FDG PET brain scans in multi-center studies

by Michael Biehl

Our paper "IRMA: Machine learning-based harmonization of 18F-FDG PET brain scans in multi-center studies" by Sofie Lövdal et al. has been published in the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging and is available online (open access): https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00259-025-07114-4 In this work we apply interpretable machine learning systems for the analysis of 18-FDG PET brain scans from different medical centers. We show that the center origin of healthy control brain images acquired with different scanners/protocols can be identified with high confidence. Consequently, machine learning models trained with data from different scanners may be heavily impacted by this bias when applied to a clinically relevant problem, e.g. the differential diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders. We propose IRMA (Iterated Relevance Matrix Analysis) as a recursive method to learn and disregard bias in PET feature vectors. Related code is freely available at https://github.com/SofieLovdal/IRMA-harmonization --------------------------------------------------- Prof. Dr. Michael Biehl Bernoulli Institute for Mathematics, Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence P.O. Box 407, 9700 AK Groningen, NL https://www.cs.rug.nl/~biehl m.biehl(a)rug.nl

Feb. 19, 2025

[Meeting] CRNS Talk Series - Live Talk by Dr. Yumi Iwashita - NASA JPL, USA

by Amir Aly

Dear All * *Apologies for cross-posting** The* Center for Robotics and Neural Systems* (CRNS) and *UK-Ireland IEEE RAS Chapter* are pleased to announce the talk of *Dr. Yumi Iwashita* from *NASA JPL, USA* on Wednesday, *February 26th *from *3:30 PM* to *5:00 PM* (*London time*) over *Zoom*. *Thank you for forwarding the invitation to any of your colleagues who might be interested*. >> *Events*: The CRNS talk series will cover a wide range of topics including Social and Cognitive Robotics, Computational Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, Computational Linguistics, Cognitive Vision, AI and Machine Learning, and healthcare. More details are available here: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/robotics-neural-systems/whats-on <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> >> *Link for the next event (**No Registration is Required**)*: Join Zoom Meeting *https://plymouth.zoom.us/j/95753314935?pwd=B9cuV9Dj6MWkhgrWEZrGsVz9brL21Q.1&from=addon <https://plymouth.zoom.us/j/95753314935?pwd=B9cuV9Dj6MWkhgrWEZrGsVz9brL21Q.1…>* >> *Title of the talk: **Exploring Moons: Preparing for Future Missions to Europa and the Moon* *Abstract*: Each planet has one or more moons, many of which hold immense potential for unlocking fundamental questions about the origins of life. Among the numerous moons in our solar system, Jupiter’s Europa, Earth’s Moon, and Saturn’s Enceladus are of particular scientific interest. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has undertaken several projects focused on these celestial bodies. In this talk, I will introduce two key projects related to Europa and the Moon. The first project, the Europa Lander Mission Concept, faces significant challenges, including a highly limited operational lifetime, constrained energy supply, intermittent communication with prolonged blackouts, and hazardous environmental conditions. Moreover, its extreme distance from Earth prevents reliance on real-time human control. To address these constraints, we developed an autonomous software prototype to test and validate planning and execution strategies for science-driven missions with minimal human intervention. Additionally, we demonstrated autonomous sampling techniques at Matanuska Glacier, Alaska. The second project, LuNaMaps, focuses on autonomous lunar landing. Successful planetary landings require precise localization with respect to the targeted site. However, landing on the Moon presents unique challenges, including insufficient global high-resolution data, the need to validate existing datasets, and extreme illumination conditions—especially at the poles. To address these issues, we have developed methodologies for generating high-quality Digital Elevation Maps (DEMs) and tools to evaluate their accuracy and reliability, supporting future lunar exploration missions. >> If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me, Regards -------------------------------------------- *Dr. Amir Aly*, PhD, FHEA, SIEEE Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Programme Manager of Artificial Intelligence UK and Ireland IEEE RAS Chapter Vice Chair Director of the Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS) School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics Room A307 Portland Square, Drake Circus, PL4 8AA University of Plymouth, UK

Feb. 18, 2025

Call for Local Organizers of the Annual Computational Neuroscience meeting CNS*2028

by Rubchinsky, Leonid L

Dear Colleagues, OCNS requests proposals from candidate local organizers to organize the 37th Annual Computational Neuroscience meeting CNS*2028, preferably in a non-European location. Groups or individuals interested in organizing the 2028 meeting should submit a proposal following the online instructions and using the templates at https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2028-local-organizer. Proposals should be submitted by email to the OCNS President at president(a)cnsorg.org. We look forward to getting your proposals by July 1, 2025. An early email to the OCNS President declaring the intent to submit a proposal would be appreciated but is not required. With kind regards, Leonid Rubchinsky OCNS Vice President, on behalf of the OCNS Board of Directors *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202-3216 lrubchin(a)iu.edu math.indianapolis.iu.edu/~lrubchin/ ***********************

Feb. 18, 2025

[Newsletter RTAIM] 16th RTAIM Seminar + 5th Inter. Conf. Phil. Mind (15-21 May 2025)

by steven gouveia

Dear All, We are happy to announce the Call for Abstracts for the 5th International Conference Philosophy of Mind: Natural and Artificial Intelligence, which will happen between the 15-21 May 2025 at the Faculty of Humanities of the University of Porto. The conference will be divided into two formats: 15-16 May fully online, and 19, 20 and 21 May 2025 fully in-person in Porto. Keynotes speakers are: Michael Spezio (Scripps College, USA), Anna Strasser (LMU-Munich), Gabriel Mograbi (Federal Uni. Rio Janeiro), Sara Lumbreras (Uni. Pontificia Comillas, Madrid) and Sofia Miguens (University of Porto). The best submitted talk will receive the Philosophy of Mind Award 2025 (waived fee). More information can be found here: https://ifilosofia.up.pt/activities/5-international-conference-philosophy-m… [deadline: 15 March 2025]. Following the 15th rTAIM Online Seminar (by Silvia Dadà, Uni. Pisa, cf. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FGyQaGbJw4) we are happy to announce the 16th rTAIM Online Seminar, with the participation of Caio Portella (Uni. São Paulo, Brazil) on the 19th February 2025, 15h00-16h30 Lisbon Time Zone, via Zoom with the title “Artificial Intelligence and Traditional Medicines: Bridging Ethics, Culture, and Innovation in Global Health". You can find the relevant Zoom information here: Link: https://videoconf-colibri.zoom.us/j/91602022360?pwd=l9Rn3i0NvdTt3pKU8dVe09W… ID: 916 0202 2360 Password: 797183 We are also happy to share new outputs of the RTAIM Project: 1. Gouveia, S.S. The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine: Preliminary Remarks. glob. Philosophy 35, 4 (2025) (cf. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10516-024-09737-y) [full paper can be provided via email upon request]. 2. Sincerely yours, RTAIM Team

Feb. 18, 2025

Birmingham-Leiden Summer School in Computational Social Cognition 2025

by Lei Zhang

(sorry for cross-posting) We are delighted to welcome applications for the second edition of the Birmingham-Leiden Summer School in Computational Social Cognition (CSC) <https://www.compsoccog.com/>. The summer school is hosted at the University of Birmingham (UK), in collaboration with Leiden University (NL), and will take place from 2nd-5th September 2025. Apply by 18th April 2025 (see information below)! Attending the Birmingham-Leiden CSC Summer School will equip a diverse cohort of early career researchers (trainees through to junior faculty members) with the ability to understand, program, and interpret the output of a range of computational models of social cognition (e.g., reinforcement learning models, evidence accumulation models, Bayesian inference models) and their potential interaction with other modalities of measurements (e.g., fMRI, EEG, eye-tracking). Attendees will receive various types of training (keynote lectures, workshops, tutorials, etc) and work on a group project, both aimed at understanding modelling as well as the theoretical and practical inferences that can be drawn from computational models under social contexts. Keynote speakers: - Matthew Rushworth, University of Oxford (UK) - Diana Tamir, Princeton University, (USA) - David Amodio, University of Amsterdam, (NL) The full list of instructors is available at https://compsoccog.com/instructors-and-speakers. <https://compsoccog.com/instructors-and-speakers> For this year’s training program and organising committee, see https://www.compsoccog.com/about. To apply, please complete this form covering your motivation and experience <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfcAccPZFTKLSfvKhwUwH3UQ-6FrpmiPbP…>, including a short CV. The deadline is 18th April 2025. Outcomes will be communicated in early May, with registration for successful applicants then open until mid-June. This year, the CSC Summer School received financial support from the William K. & Katherine W. Estes Fund in association with the Association of Psychological Science <https://www.psychologicalscience.org/members/awards-and-honors/estes-fund> We hope to see you this summer in Birmingham! Jo (2025 co-lead), Lei (2025 co-lead), & Anna, on behalf of the CSC 2025 organising committee --- *Dr. Lei Zhang (He/Him)* Associate Professor/Principal Investigator, Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH) & Institute for Mental Health (IMH) Psychology, College of Life & Environmental Sciences University of Birmingham, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK *e: l.zhang.13(a)bham.ac.uk <l.zhang.13(a)bham.ac.uk> * *w: lei-zhang.net <https://lei-zhang.net/>* *t: @lei_zhang_lz <https://twitter.com/lei_zhang_lz>*

Feb. 17, 2025

Multiple PhD positions in Cognitive Neuroscience at SISSA - application deadline 20 March 2025

by Eugenio Piasini

Up to 6 PhD positions in Cognitive Neuroscience are available at SISSA, Trieste, starting October 2025. SISSA is an elite postgraduate research institution for Maths, Physics and Neuroscience, located in Trieste, Italy. SISSA operates in English, and its faculty and student community is diverse and strongly international. The Cognitive Neuroscience group (https://phdcns.sissa.it/) hosts 6 research labs that study the neuronal bases of time and magnitude processing, neuronal foundations of perceptual experience and learning in various sensory modalities, motivation and intelligence, language, and neural computation. Our research is highly interdisciplinary; our approaches include behavioral, psychophysics, and neurophysiological experiments with humans and animals, as well as computational, statistical and mathematical models. Students from a broad range of backgrounds (physics, maths, medicine, psychology, biology) are encouraged to apply. The selection procedure is now open. The application deadline for the spring admission round is 20 March 2025 at 1pm CET. Please apply here<https://pica.cineca.it/sissa/phd-cns-01-2025/>, and see the admission procedure page<https://phdcns.sissa.it/admission-procedure> for more information. Please contact the PhD Coordinator Mathew Diamond (diamond(a)sissa.it) and/or your prospective supervisor for more information and informal inquiries.

Feb. 17, 2025

📢 Reminder: FRCCS 2025 – Submit Your Work Before the Deadline!

by Hocine Cherifi

*Dear Colleagues,* 🚨 *Don’t miss your chance to contribute to FRCCS 2025!* We invite you to *submit your research* and join us in *Bordeaux* for an exciting exchange on *complex systems.* 🔥 *Submission Deadlines* ✅ *Main Conference:* *February 21, 2025* ✅ *Workshops:* *March 20, 2025* 🔗 *Submit your work:* CMT Submission Portal <https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/FRCCS2025/> 🌍 *More info:* FRCCS 2025 Website <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/> ------------------------------ 🌟 *Discover FRCCS 2025 Workshops* In addition to the main conference, FRCCS 2025 features *specialized workshops* exploring key challenges in *complexity science.* These workshops provide *a unique platform* to engage with experts, exchange insights, and foster collaborations. 📢 *Workshops at FRCCS 2025:* 🎨 *Beauty in Complexity* – *Benjamin Renoust* 🔗 *Complex Networks and Blockchain for the Future of Trusted Connectivity* – *Annamaria Ficara* 🤝 *Emergence of Cooperation Across Scales* – *Emma Zajdela* 🧬 *Understanding Complex Systems in Biology – Tissue Growth, Morphogenesis, and Signal Dynamics* – *Xinyi Liu* 🧠 *Cognitive Biases in ABMs and Agent-Resolved Data* – *Damien Challet* 📊 *Decoding Success in Business and Economics: A Complexity Science Perspective* – *Fabian Braesemann* 🌐 *2nd Workshop on Complex Network Sparsification & Beyond* – *Hamida Seba* *📢** Ready to Contribute?* Be part of FRCCS 2025 by submitting your work and engaging in our workshops. We look forward to your contributions and to welcoming you to *Bordeaux!* 💡 *Submit Now:* CMT Submission Portal <https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/FRCCS2025/>

Feb. 17, 2025

Fwd: [seminar.wwtns] NEW: More seminars of VVTNS 5th season are now online

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide The following seminars are now available on the VVTNS website and YouTube channel ---------------------------------------------------------- Unraveling information processing through functional networks Hannah Choi Georgia Tech talk given on November 6, 2024 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 ------------------------------------ The algebra of cognition Chris Eliasmith University of Waterloo talk given on November 20, 2024 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 --------------------------------------- Back to the Continuous Attractor Memming Park Champalimaud Foundation talk given on November 27, 2024 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 --------------------------------------- Properties of memory networks with excitatory-inhibitory assemblies Claire Meissner-Bernard Friedrich Miescher Institute for biomedical research, Basel talk given on December 18, 2024 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 ---------------------------- Dense Associative Memory and its potential role in brain computation Dmitry Krotov IBM Research, Cambridge, USA talk given on January 8, 2025 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 ----------------------------- New methods for tracking and control of dynamic animal behavior during learning Jonathan Pillow Princeton University talk given on January 15, 2025 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 ----------------------------- *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Feb. 16, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Jens-Bastian Eppler , Centre de Recerca Matemàtica Barcelona

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Jens-Bastian Eppler Centre de Recerca Matemàtica Barcelona <https://www.researchgate.net/institution/Goethe-Universitaet_Frankfurt_am_M…> on the topic of Representational drift reflects ongoing balancing of stochastic changes by Hebbian learning The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Even in stable environments, sensory responses undergo continuous reformatting, a phenomenon known as representational drift. Using chronic calcium imaging in mouse auditory cortex, we show that during this representational drift signal correlations predict future noise correlations, suggesting that stimulus-driven co-activation strengthens effective connectivity via Hebbian-like plasticity. Linear network models reveal that these temporal dependencies between signal and noise correlations emerge only when Hebbian learning balances stochastic synaptic changes, preventing functional degradation. Our findings highlight how ongoing input-driven plasticity stabilizes neural representations amidst inherent synaptic variability. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.*

Feb. 16, 2025

[Workshop in Mallorca] Embracing Complexity

by RUBÉN HERZOG

We are pleased to invite you to the Workshop titled "Embracing Complexity: Principled and Practical Approaches to Emergence". The workshop is scheduled for June 23-27 2025 at the Institute for Cross-Disciplinary Physics and Complex Systems (IFISC in Spanish) in Palma de Mallorca, Spain ( https://ifisc.uib-csic.es/en/) ABOUT THE WORKSHOP This workshop will offer a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on the applications of emergence in examining various real-world systems, including its use in understanding high-order interactions and complexity across diverse biological and ecological scales. With an emphasis on the micro-to-macro relations between cells, humans, and ecology, we aim to present emergence both as a practical tool and a principled approach. The mornings will be devoted to theory-driven presentations that draw from recent operational advances in capturing emergent phenomena, while the afternoons will feature hands-on sessions tailored for practical implementation of these topics. Something we are most thrilled about will be a coordinated outdoor excursion during the week to unwind and visit the island. This is not all, we also plan to have an immersive installation centred on exploring a collective experience of emergence with the voluntary participation of all the attendees. We hope you will also be pleased to join! REGISTRATION All applications should submit an abstract, which will be the key element for selection. After selection, participants will be asked to pay a fee of 400€, which will cover 5 nights (from the 22nd to the 26th of June) at the residency of the Universidad de las Islas Baleares, breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks and the excursion. SUBMISSION DEADLINE 14 of March of 2025. Selection will be informed by the end of April of 2025. Abstract submission here <https://forms.gle/eQhWYyC3mjd6EhYC9>. CONFIRMED SPEAKERS Fernando Rosas, University of Sussex, UK Lauren Ross, University of California, Irvine, USA Antonella Tramacere, Università Roma Tre, Italy Ivana Konvalinka, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark Carmen Miguell, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain Leonardo Gollo, IFISC, Spain David Sanchez, IFISC, Spain Lucas Lacassa, IFISC, Spain Borjan Milinkovic, NeuroPSI, France Pedro Mediano, Imperial College London, UK Julia Mindlin, University of Leipzig, Germany More information at https://ifisc.uib-csic.es/en/events/conferences/embracing-complexity-25/ Organizers Mar Estarellas, Division of Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University marestarellas(a)gmail.com Ivan Mindlin, Paris Brain Institute, ivan.mindlin(a)icm-institute.org Ruben Herzog, IFISC, rherzoga(a)gmail.com Samy Castro, University of Strasbourg, castro.novoa.samy(a)gmail.com Borjan Milinkovic, NeuroPSI, borjan.milinkovic(a)icm-institute.org Scientific Chairman: Claudio R. Mirasso, IFISC, claudio(a)ifisc.uib-csic.es

Feb. 14, 2025

ICONIP2025 Call for Special Session/Workshop/Tutorial Proposals

by Kenji Doya

ICONIP2025 Call for Special Session/Workshop/Tutorial Proposals We are delighted to hold the 32nd International Conference on Neural Information Processing (ICONIP) 2025 from November 20 to 24 at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). https://iconip2025.apnns.org/ We are now calling for proposals of special sessions during the single track main conference and parallel workshops and tutorials on the topics including machine intelligence, computational neuroscience, and neural network applications. Please find the details on the web page: https://iconip2025.apnns.org/submission/ We look forward to receiving diverse proposals of wide interest. Important Dates Special session proposal deadline: March 1st Workshop proposal deadline: March 1st Tutorial proposal deadline: May 1st Paper submission deadline: May 15th Notification of acceptance: July 15th Camera ready submission: August 15th Registration deadline: August 15th Conference dates: November 20-24 Inquiry: iconip2025(a)apnns.org ---- Kenji Doya <doya(a)oist.jp> Neural Computation Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan Phone: +81-98-966-8594; Fax: +81-98-966-2891 https://groups.oist.jp/ncu

Feb. 13, 2025

Junior/Postdoc Researchers in Computational Neuroscience (BRADY project) in Prague, Czech Republic

by Magda Pokorna

*Junior Researchers: Postdoctoral Fellow, Graduate student or Research assistant in Computational Neuroscience within the BRADY project - Ref. No. 2025/11*** Junior researcher positions are available in the Complex Networks and Brain Dynamics group (COBRA, https://cobra.cs.cas.cz/) at the Institute of Computer Science, Prague, Czech Republic (https://www.cs.cas.cz/en) These positions are centered in the Research Work Package 1 (RWP1) of a larger, interdisciplinary consortium established for the OPJAK BRADY project. *The relevant RWP1 aims to establish a family of generative models of graded complexity capturing brain dynamics that would:* * Approximate spatial patterns observed in resting state neuroimaging, including topology and topography of functional connectivity. * Approximate temporal brain dynamics, including activity fluctuations, connectivity dynamics, and information flow. * Provide an internally consistent unified account of electrophysiological and fMRI data, linking to biologically interpretable latent variables and structural connectivity. * Allow predicting the effect of external stimulation, such as complex sensory and cognitive tasks, electric of magnetic stimulation, or pharmacological intervention. * Allow capturing the key axes of inter-subject variability, linking it to psychometric data. * Ultimately allow characterizing and predicting the trajectory of deviation from healthy brain dynamics in a range of psychiatric and neurological diseases. Further information can be found here:https://brady.cs.cas.cz/ <https://brady.cs.cas.cz/>. *Conditions:* * Positions are available immediately, i.e. starting from 1. 3. 2025 or later. * Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. * Contract is for 12-36 months duration, with exceptions negotiable. * Possibility of extension until end of project (30. 6. 2028), support for transition to tenure-track or external funding applications. * This is a full-time fixed term contract appointment. Part time contract negotiable. * Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience. * Bonuses and travel funding for conferences and research stays depending on performance. * No teaching duties. *Applicants should:* 1. Hold a PhD with the exception of Research assistant and Graduate student positions. 2. Have a strong background (commensurate to the respective career level) in some of the fields related to computational neuroscience - mathematical, statistical skills, experience with data analysis, machine learning, computer programming. 3. Be fluent in English. We seek curious, self-motivated, hard-working, team-spirited researchers. Prior experience with time series and network analysis is advantageous, but not required. *For informal inquiries* do not hesitate to contact the project Scientific Coordinator: /Ing. Mgr. /Jaroslav Hlinka, /Ph.D./ <https://www.cs.cas.cz/staff/hlinka/cs>, hlinka(a)cs.cas.cz <mailto:hlinka@cs.cas.cz>, http://www.cs.cas.cz/hlinka/ <http://www.cs.cas.cz/hlinka/>. *The applications* are to be sent to bradyadmin(a)cs.cas.cz <mailto:bradyadmincs.cas.cz> and should contain: 1.Curriculum Vitae. 2.Two letters of recommendation. The referees should send their recommendations directly to bradyadmin(a)cs.cas.cz <mailto:bradyadmin@cs.cas.cz>. 3.A proof of the obtained degree. 4.Mention the Ref. No. 2025/11. ___

Feb. 12, 2025

neurocog 2025 conference

by Tom Verguts

Dear all, this is a save-the-date announcement for the Neurocog 2025 conference, which will take place in November of this year. Find all preliminary information at neurocog.be<http://neurocog.be/>, more is soon to follow. Tom

Feb. 12, 2025

Addressing gender-based violence in academia – Online seminar – 10 March 2025, 13h GMT

by Sidarus, Nura

Addressing gender-based violence in academia Monday, 10 March, 13h GMT / 14h CET – online In commemoration of International Women's Month, Women in Cognitive Science-Europe and Royal Holloway University of London are honoured to welcome as our guest speaker Professor Anne Laure Humbert from the University of Gothenburg, expert in gender equality metrics and structural change in academia, who will particularly draw on her work in the uniSAFE and genderSAFE EU-funded projects. We aim to raise awareness and drive action on gender-based violence by exploring its various forms, the obstacles to reporting and addressing it, and effective strategies for prevention. This is a must-attend event for academics worldwide, at all career stages, who are dedicated to fostering safer and more equitable academic environments. Details and registration: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/addressing-gender-based-violence-in-academia… __________________________________________________________ Dr Nura Sidarus (she/her) Lecturer | Chair of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Team Department of Psychology | Office: Wolfson 248 Royal Holloway University of London | Egham | TW20 0EX Affiliate Member | Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, UCL Chair of Women in Cognitive Science - Europe<https://www.womenincogsci.org/wics-europe> Computations in Agency and Metacognition Lab<https://www.compagencymeta.com/> nura.sidarus(a)rhul.ac.uk<mailto:nura.sidarus@rhul.ac.uk> | Personal Website<http://www.nurasidarus.com/> __________________________________________________________ This email, its contents and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. In certain circumstances, it may also be subject to legal privilege. Any unauthorised use, disclosure, or copying is not permitted. If you have received this email in error, please notify us and immediately and permanently delete it. Any views or opinions expressed in personal emails are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Royal Holloway, University of London. It is your responsibility to ensure that this email and any attachments are virus free.

Feb. 11, 2025

NEURON Spring course reminder - a few seats remain

by McDougal, Robert

A few seats remain open for the 2025 NEURON Spring Course, but the registration deadline is Friday, February 28 -- less than three weeks from today -- so act now if you want to join us at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. This course will provide a thorough introduction to computational modeling of neurons and networks with NEURON and is suitable for individuals at all levels of expertise. It will start at 9 AM Sunday, March 9, and end at 5 PM Friday, March 14, 2025. For more information and the on-line application form, see The 2025 NEURON Spring Course<https://www.neuron.yale.edu/phpBB/viewtopic.php?p=20497#p20497>

Feb. 10, 2025

Save the date: EITN EBRAINS Fall School November 19th to 28th, 2025, MARSEILLE, France

by DEPANNEMAECKER Damien

Save the date: November 19th to 28th, 2025, MARSEILLE, France EITN EBRAINS Fall School in Computational Neuroscience The EITN EBRAINS Fall School in Computational Neuroscience is scheduled to be held in Marseille, France, from November 19th to 28th, 2025. This 10-day intensive program offers a comprehensive exploration of theoretical and computational neuroscience methods to build models from single neurons to whole-brain scales. The course covers cellular models, spiking neural networks, mean-field models, and whole-brain models, with corresponding lectures and tutorials provided for each topic, to be applied during project works. Ph.D. students, young postdocs, or master's students interested in learning about computational neuroscience techniques and utilizing various simulation environments for model construction will collaborate in thematic group projects under the mentorship of experienced tutors.

Feb. 10, 2025

Fwd: [seminar.wwtns] World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Lea Duncker, Standford

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Lea Duncker Stanford on the topic of Evaluating dynamical systems hypotheses for pattern generation in motor cortex The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * The rich repertoire of skilled mammalian behavior is the product of neural circuits that generate robust and flexible patterns of activity distributed across populations of neurons. Decades of associative studies have linked many behaviors to specific patterns of population activity, but association alone cannot reveal the dynamical mechanisms that shape those patterns. Are local neural circuits high-dimensional dynamical reservoirs able to generate arbitrary superpositions of patterns with appropriate excitation? Or might circuit dynamics be shaped in response to behavioral context so as to generate only the low-dimensional patterns needed for the task at hand? Here, we address these questions within the primate motor cortex by delivering optogenetic and electrical microstimulation perturbations during reaching behavior. We develop a novel analytic approach that relates measured activity to theoretically tractable, dynamical models of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. Our computational modeling framework allows us to quantitatively evaluate different hypotheses about the dynamical mechanisms underlying pattern generation against perturbation responses. Our results demonstrate that motor cortical activity during reaching is shaped by a self-contained, low-dimensional dynamical system. The subspace containing task-relevant dynamics proves to be oriented so as to be robust to strong non-normal amplification within cortical circuits. This task dynamics space exhibits a privileged causal relationship with behavior, in that stimulation in motor cortex perturbs reach kinematics only to the extent that it alters neural states within this subspace. Our results resolve long-standing questions about the dynamical structure of cortical activity associated with movement, and illuminate the dynamical perturbation experiments needed to understand how neural circuits throughout the brain generate complex behavior. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.*

Feb. 9, 2025

postdoc positions in NeuroAI / sensorimotor control

by Gunnar Blohm

Dear all, I'm looking for postdocs who'd like to apply for the Connected Minds PDFs with me and collaborators to work on the following potential projects: 1. explainable neuroAI for ANN / SNN models of motor control 2. neuromorphic robotic control 3. neurorobotic artistic performance 4. whole brain motor control networks identified through MEG and inverse optimal control If you're interested, please get in touch. You will need a solid quantitative background (coding, ML, signal processing) and neuroscience knowledge. More information about the 2-yr Connected Minds PDF application, including eligibility criteria can be found here: https://www.yorku.ca/research/connected-minds/postdoctoral-fellowships/ I will of course help assembling the advisory team, writing the research project description and provide general guidance for the application. Feel free to check out my lab's website <http://compneurosci.com/> and WIKI <http://compneurosci.com/wiki/index.php/Main_Page>to get a better sense of who we are and how we work... Next application deadline is March 21, 2025. Awards are $70k/yr+benefits and $8.5k/yr research allowance for 2 yrs + $10k for travel. Cheers, Gunnar -- Dr. Gunnar BLOHM Vice-Director (Queen's) of Connected Minds Professor in Computational Neuroscience Queen's U, Kingston, ON, 18 Stuart Str, Botterell Hall Rm 229 http://www.compneurosci.com/ - Queen’s University is situated on the territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabek -

Feb. 7, 2025

Summer school for young profs: Aug 23-30, 2025

by Gunnar Blohm

Dear new professors, Konrad Körding and I have a special treat for you: We're hosting a new summer school teaching young prof in comp neuro and beyond how to start a successful career. * Dates: Aug 23-30, 2025 * Location: Kingston, ON, Canada * Details and application: http://compneurosci.com/Neuro4Pros/index.html * Application deadline: Mar 1, 2025 * Cost: free, but you need to cover your own travel to Kingston Sponsored by Community for Rigor <https://c4r.io/> and Connected Minds <https://www.yorku.ca/research/connected-minds/>, we have a terrific lineup of facilitators helping us to boost your career. We will talk about your research, the nature of your lab and what success and fun means to you. We will discuss principles of good science, writing abstracts, papers and grants, how to excel at lab management, acing mentorship, dealing with university administration and making your science accessible to all. But most importantly, we want to create a peer community for networking and mutual support. Cheers, Gunnar -- Dr. Gunnar BLOHM Vice-Director (Queen's) of Connected Minds Professor in Computational Neuroscience Queen's U, Kingston, ON, 18 Stuart Str, Botterell Hall Rm 229 http://www.compneurosci.com/ - Queen’s University is situated on the territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabek -

Feb. 7, 2025

Call for Participation & Papers - ACAIN 2025 - 5th International Advanced Course & Symposium on Artificial Intelligence & Neuroscience, September 21-24 2025, Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy -> Deadline: March 23

by ICAS Organizing Committee

Call for Participation & Call for Papers (apologies for multiple copies) _______________________________________________________________ The 5th International Advanced *Course* & *Symposium* on Artificial Intelligence & Neuroscience, September 21-24, 2025, Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy W: https://acain2025.icas.events E: acain(a)icas.cc FB: https://www.facebook.com/ACAIN.LakeDistrict/ Symposium Deadlines: Paper Submission (Symposium): by March 23 (AoE) https://acain2025.icas.events/symposium-call-for-papers/ https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=acain2025 Course Deadlines: Regular Registration (Course): by March 23 (AoE) https://acain2025.icas.events/course-description/ https://acain2025.icas.events/registration/ https://2025.iaiss.cc/deadlines/ SCOPE & MOTIVATION: ACAIN: AI meets Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Science The ACAIN symposium and course is an interdisciplinary event featuring leading scientists from AI and Neuroscience, providing a special opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research in the fields of AI, Neuroscience, Neuroscience-Inspired AI, Human-Level AI, and Cognitive Science. The Advanced Course and Symposium on Artificial Intelligence & Neuroscience (ACAIN) is a full-immersion four-day Course and Symposium in Tuscany on cutting-edge advances in Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. The Course provides a stimulating environment for academics, early career researchers, Post-Docs, PhD students and industry leaders. Participants will also have the chance to present their results with oral talks or posters, and to interact with their colleagues, in a convivial and productive environment. Two days of keynote talks and oral presentations, the ACAIN Symposium, (September 23-24), will be preceded by lectures of leading scientists, the ACAIN Course, (September 21-22). Bringing together AI and neuroscience promises to yield benefits for both fields. The future impact and progress in both AI and Neuroscience will strongly depend on continuous synergy, exchange, collaboration and efficient cooperation between the two research communities. These are the goals of the International Course and Symposium - ACAIN, which is aimed both at AI experts with interests in Neuroscience and at neuroscientists with an interest in AI. ACAIN accepts rigorous research that promotes and fosters multidisciplinary interactions between artificial intelligence and neuroscience. The Advanced Course is suited for scholars, academics, early career researchers, Post-Docs, PhD students and industry leaders. The Event (Course and Symposium) will involve a total of 36-40 hours of lectures. Academically, this will be equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students and the Master Students attending the Event. LECTURERS: György Buzsáki, NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University, USA Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA Maneesh Sahani, University College London, UK Jonathon Shlens, Google DeepMind, USA Dimitra Thomaidou, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Greece Marina Vidaki, University of Crete, Medical School, Crete, Greece More Speakers TBA https://acain2025.icas.events/course-lecturers/ SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM COMMITTEE (partial list, confirmed members): https://acain2025.icas.events/program-committee/ ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: https://acain2025.icas.events/symposium-committee/ VENUE & ACCOMMODATION: https://acain2025.icas.events/venue/ ACAIN is a *Residential Conference*, all participants (invited speakers, authors, organizers, chairs, participants) must book and stay at the Riva del Sole Resort and Spa. No exceptions are allowed. Riva del Sole Resort & SPA a: Località Riva del Sole - Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) CAP 58043, Tuscany - Italy p: +39-0564-928111 f: +39-0564-935607 e: booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it w: www.rivadelsole.it/en ACTIVITIES: https://acain2025.icas.events/activities/ REGISTRATION: https://acain2025.icas.events/registration/ See you in Tuscany in September! ACAIN Organizing Committee. E: acain(a)icas.cc W: https://acain2025.icas.events FB: https://www.facebook.com/ACAIN.LakeDistrict Obviously, this is only a Call for Participation & Call for Papers, to have complete and updated information we recommend you access the relevant website: https://acain2025.icas.events * Apologies for multiple copies. Please forward to anybody who might be interested * -- *8th Advanced Course on Data Science & Machine Learning - ACDL 2025, **9**-13 June*, Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) – Tuscany, Italy *An Interdisciplinary Residential Course: from Deep Learning to Generative Artificial Intelligence* *Early Registration: by February 23, 2025 (AoE)* https://acdl2025.icas.events/registration/ https://acdl2025.icas.events/ acdl(a)icas.cc The Course is equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students and the Master Students attending the Course. *11th International Conference on Learning, Optimization and Data – LOD 2025, *21–24 September Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy https://lod2025.icas.events/ lod(a)icas.cc *5th Advanced Course ** and Symposium **on Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience – ACAIN 2025,* 21–24 September Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy https://acain2025.icas.events/ acain(a)icas.cc *Symposium **Author Registration Deadline: March 23 * *Course Early Registration Deadline: March 23* The Course is equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students and the Master Students attending the Course. *ICAS - The Interdisciplinary Centre of Advanced Studies* *https://icas.cc/* <https://icas.cc/> Il giorno ven 7 feb 2025 alle ore 10:19 Helena Ledmyr via Comp-neuro < comp-neuro(a)lists.cnsorg.org> ha scritto: > [apologies for cross posting] > > At INCF we strive to serve the neuroscience community as best we can with > resources that facilitate open science, data sharing, and data management. > In order for us to be the most useful we can be, we need your input! > > Next week we're hosting a Town Hall for our community to give us input on > what INCF should focus on in the coming years and we hope you will join us. > > 📅 We're hosting two time slots to accommodate for more time zones: > - Feb 11, 8am CET > - Feb 12, 8pm CET > > Register for the Town Hall here: bit.ly/3Q2UWKx > > If you're unable to join our virtual Town Halls we would very much > appreciate feedback in this survey, which is based on input from an > in-person Town Hall we organized during the INCF Assembly last year: > bit.ly/40BlrvI > > > All the best, > Helena Ledmyr > ----------------------------- > Helena Ledmyr, PhD > > *Director* > *Development and Communications* > > International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Secretariat > Karolinska Institutet. Nobels väg 15A, SE-171 77 Stockholm. Sweden > Email: helena.ledmyr(a)incf.org > Phone: +46 8 524 870 35 > incf.org > _______________________________________________ > Comp-neuro mailing list -- comp-neuro(a)lists.cnsorg.org > Mailing list webpage (to subscribe or view archives): > https://www.cnsorg.org/comp-neuro-mailing-list > > To contact admin/moderators, send an email to: > comp-neuro-owner(a)lists.cnsorg.org > To unsubscribe, send an email to comp-neuro-leave(a)lists.cnsorg.org

Feb. 7, 2025

INCF Virtual Town Hall Feb 11 & 12

by Helena Ledmyr

[apologies for cross posting] At INCF we strive to serve the neuroscience community as best we can with resources that facilitate open science, data sharing, and data management. In order for us to be the most useful we can be, we need your input! Next week we're hosting a Town Hall for our community to give us input on what INCF should focus on in the coming years and we hope you will join us. 📅 We're hosting two time slots to accommodate for more time zones: - Feb 11, 8am CET - Feb 12, 8pm CET Register for the Town Hall here: bit.ly/3Q2UWKx If you're unable to join our virtual Town Halls we would very much appreciate feedback in this survey, which is based on input from an in-person Town Hall we organized during the INCF Assembly last year: bit.ly/40BlrvI All the best, Helena Ledmyr ----------------------------- Helena Ledmyr, PhD *Director* *Development and Communications* International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Secretariat Karolinska Institutet. Nobels väg 15A, SE-171 77 Stockholm. Sweden Email: helena.ledmyr(a)incf.org Phone: +46 8 524 870 35 incf.org

Feb. 6, 2025

Postdoctoral position in data-driven cortical microcircuit modeling at Hay lab (CAMH, University of Toronto)

by Etay Hay

Hay lab is looking for applicants for a postdoctoral position in modeling large-scale spiking activity (neuropixels) from prefrontal cortex in rodents in health and chronic stress in collaboration with Weizmann Institute of Science. Applicants should have experience in python, modeling, detailed conductance-based neuron and microcircuit models. The position is anticipated to start in spring-summer 2025, with duration of 2 years. Interested applicants should send their CV to Dr. Etay Hay, at: etay.hay(a)camh.ca<mailto:etay.hay@camh.ca> Hay lab is located at the Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, within Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto and Max Planck Institute in Toronto. The centre is located in downtown Toronto. CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. AVIS DE CONFIDENTIALITÉ : Ce message électronique, ainsi que tout fichier qui y est joint, est reserve à l'usage exclusif du destinataire visé et peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels et privilégiés. Toute lecture, utilisation, divulgation ou distribution non autorisée est interdite. Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire visé, veuillez en aviser l'expéditeur par retour de courriel et détruire toutes les copies du message original.

Feb. 6, 2025

Postdoc in Computational Neuroscience at the University of Essex (UK)

by De Feo, Vito

Dear colleagues, We are looking for a candidate with a quantitative background who has completed (or is about to complete) a PhD in a quantitative field for a post-doctoral position within the RESTED (REbalancing circadian rhythms in Sleep and heart rate To Ease Dissociative symptoms) project in order to model the links between Mental Health and SCRD (sleep and other circadian rhythm disturbances). Underlying the project is evidence that feelings of dissociation are strongly associated with sleep disorders and are a transdiagnostic risk factor for the development of depression, anxiety and psychosis. However, no one has investigated the role of dissociative symptoms in the links between SCRD (sleep and other circadian rhythm disorders) and MH (mental health). We propose to model how fluctuations in sleep and heart rate are related to fluctuations in dissociation, depression, anxiety and psychosis. Based on this understanding, our vision is to prevent the clinical course of these symptoms with low-cost interventions that improve sleep and heart rate. Specifically, in RESTED we want to determine cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between sleep, heart rate and symptoms of dissociation, depression, anxiety and psychosis in adolescents and young adults. In addition, we want to develop novel circadian biomarkers, sleep detection technologies and analytical approaches to model bidirectional associations between sleep, autonomic function and daily fluctuations in cognition and emotion. To do this, we will use Mediation Analysis, Granger Causality and Directed Information. Finally, we will use Explainable AI methods, and Machine Learning models to predict mental health variables from circadian variables. The PostDoc will be based at the University of Essex School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) although the candidate will join our entire interdisciplinary team working in collaboration with the University of Sussex, Birmingham and the NHS. The University of Essex houses the Centre for Brain Science and various BCI laboratories, with access to state-of-the-art EEG and EMG equipment, computer-controlled electrical and mechanical stimulators and other devices to optimally measure sensory, motor and associated cortical activity. CSEE, ranked 6th in the UK as research power in the last REF, has several laboratories including one of the best BCI laboratories in Europe and a Health AI laboratory, and international collaborations with prestigious foreign research institutes including the Biotech campus of EPFL Geneva and the Institute of Neuroinformatics at ETH Zurich. Duties of the role To analyse data collected in pre-existing databases using statistical analysis techniques such as mediation analysis. To organise the data collected from participants using health bands (actigraphy, ECG, etc.) To use statistical and AI techniques to model causal relationships between the phenomena described in the project description.• To implement a sleep stages classifier using machine learning and deep learning techniques. To summarise the results obtained and participate in the writing of scientific publications. To undertake or manage practical elements of research such as setting up and conducting experiments, developing questionnaires and conducting fieldwork, recording data and identifying trends or patterns. To produce research outputs for publication at acceptable levels of volume and academic excellence and disseminate the result of research and scholarship through appropriate Knowledge Exchange activities (such as at relevant national and international conferences and scholarly publications not intended for the REF). To contribute to the development and maintenance or research resources (examples of which include household surveys, databases, specialist equipment and infrastructure, software packages and computer models) used within the Department or wider user community external to the Department. To, supervise and/or mentor postgraduate research students into relevant communities of research at Essex as appropriate to the departmental context to generate meaningful connections between research and education at Essex. Skills and qualifications required Applicants are expected to hold a PhD in a relevant field (engineering, mathematics, computer science or physics), or be close to completion of PhD. You will have the ability and willingness to complement and enhance the research project/department/school’s education and research strengths and areas of planned development. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal are also essential for the post. Specific knowledge and skills are also required: - Strong mathematical and programming skills. - Wide and documented experience in Signal Processing, Machine Learning, Deep Learning and Data Analysis - Experience with physiological signal analysis or expertise in computational neuroscience. - Proficiency in MATLAB or Python. - Demonstrated ability to work independently and overcome complex technical challenges. For more information about the position please contact Dr Vito De Feo vito.defeo(a)essex.ac.uk To apply: https://vacancies.essex.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?… Best wishes, Vito Dr. Vito De Feo Lecturer in Health Artificial Intelligence for Brain and Mental Health Artificial Intelligence Team and Consumer Neuroscience Research Cluster Future Health Technology and Brain-Computer Interfaces laboratories, School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK

Feb. 6, 2025

2025 School on Analytical Connectionism: Call for applications

by Lin, I-Chun

Topical focus: Bias in learning 25 August - 5 September 2025, London www.analytical-connectionism.net/school/2025<http://www.analytical-connectionism.net/school/2025> Apply by 18 April 2025 We are delighted to announce the 3rd edition of the School on Analytical Connectionism. This 2-week course will focus on analytical tools, including methods from statistical physics and probability theory, for probing neural networks and higher-level cognition. This course is appropriate for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and faculty in fields from psychology and neuroscience, to physics, computer science, and mathematics. The course will bring together neuroscience, psychology, and machine-learning communities, introducing participants to connectionist theories of higher-level cognition and psychology as well as analytical methods for neural-network analysis. Participants will work in teams, mentored by course lecturers and organisers, to develop novel research projects on topics related to analytical connectionism. Participants will present the research proposals in Week 1 and interim results at the end of the course. Confirmed Faculty: * Rémi Monasson (CNRS/ENS) * Tim Rogers (University of Wisconsin-Madison) * Tali Sharot (UCL/MIT) * Merav Ahissar (Hebrew University of Jerusalem) * Xuechunzi Bai (University of Chicago) * Marco Baity-Jesi (Eawag) * Mathew Diamond (SISSA) * Lasana Harris (UCL) * Tiago Maia (University of Lisbon) * Angela Radulescu (Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai) * Levent Sagun (FAIR) * Fanny Yang (ETHZ)

Feb. 6, 2025

New Frontiers in Associative Memories workshop at ICLR 2025

by Dmitry Krotov

Dear Friends and Colleagues, We would like to advertise the call for papers for the New Frontiers in Associative Memories workshop at ICLR 2025. New architectures and algorithms, memory-augmented LLMs, energy-based models, Hopfield networks, associative memory and diffusion, and many other exciting topics. Please consider sharing this information with your students, postdocs, and anyone who might be interested. Website: https://nfam.vizhub.ai Submissions via Open Review: https://openreview.net/group?id=ICLR.cc/2025/Workshop/NFAM Deadline: February 14, 2025 EOD AOE Best wishes, Julia Kempe, Dmitry Krotov, Hilde Kuehne, Dan Lee, Sara Solla

Feb. 5, 2025

Workshop on Themes across Control and Reinforcement Learning (24-25 March, 2025), at CWI, Amsterdam, Netherlands

by Aditya Gilra

Dear all, We invite registrations for a workshop on Themes across Control and Reinforcement Learning: https://www.cwi.nl/en/events/cwi-research-semester-programmes/workshop-them… Control theory and reinforcement learning converge on a shared objective: facilitating autonomous, real-time decision-making to optimize dynamical processes. Historically, these disciplines have diverged in assumptions regarding available prior information and in analytical techniques applied. However, recent advances bridging the two domains are fostering collaborations. As part of a research semester on Control Theory and Reinforcement Learning at CWI, Amsterdam, NL, we have a workshop on broad themes across these topics.Date: 24-25 March 2025Venue: CWI (Research Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science), Amsterdam, Netherlands We have a line-up of renowned speakers:Ann Nowé, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, BelgiumBert Kappen, Radboud Univ, Nijmegen, NetherlandsDavide Grossi, Univ of Amsterdam, University of Groningen, NetherlandsFrans Oliehoek, TU Delft, NetherlandsHarri Lähdesmäki, Aalto University, FinlandJens Kober, TU Delft, NetherlandsSean Meyn, Univ. of Florida, USASofie Haesert, Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands Please register at the earliest!https://www.cwi.nl/en/events/cwi-research-semester-programmes/workshop-themes-across-control-and-reinforcement-learning/ Looking forward to seeing you!Organizers of the research semester programme. Download and advertise the poster.

Feb. 5, 2025

Save the Date! COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025 – December 9-11, Binghamton, New York, USA

by Hocine Cherifi

The *14th International Conference on Complex Networks & Their Applications (COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025)* will take place in *Binghamton, New York, USA, from December 9 to 11, 2025*! This annual event brings together *leading researchers, practitioners, and industry experts* to discuss cutting-edge advances in *network science, graph machine learning, complex systems and computational social science*. *📌** Key Details* 📅 *Conference Dates:* December 9-11, 2025 🎓 *Tutorials:* December 8, 2025 📍 *Location:* Binghamton, New York, USA 📖 *Proceedings Published by Springer* Stay tuned! The *Call for Papers* will be officially launched soon, inviting submissions in *network science, graph learning, social networks, biological systems, smart cities, and more*. Mark your calendar, and don’t miss this exciting opportunity to share your research with the global community! 📩 *Want to stay updated?* visit https://complexnetworks.org/ Best regards, *COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025 Organizing Committee*

Feb. 5, 2025

CAJAL course on Neuroscience and AI, 14 Jul - 1 Aug, 2025, Lisbon

by Sinz, Fabian

Dear colleagues, We are organizing a new CAJAL Course on Neuroscience and AI. The course is an exciting opportunity for early-career researchers interested in NeuroAI. This intensive course will provide participants with hands-on training in deep learning, computational modeling, and AI-driven approaches to neuroscience research. Participants will work with an exciting line-up of world-class faculty to explore how AI can help model and understand brain function and behavior. 📅 Course Dates: 14 July - 1 August 2025 📍 Location: Champalimaud Foundation, Lisbon, Portugal ⏳ Application Deadline: March 7th 2025 💡 Stipends are available 🔗 Apply here: https://form.jotform.com/Cajal_training/neuroai-2025-applications Course Directors: Fabian Sinz - Georg August University Göttingen, Germany Leyla Isik - Johns Hopkins University, USA Mariya Toneva - Max Planck Institute for Software Systems, Germany Srini Turaga - HHMI Janelia Research Campus, USA Faculty Include: Jacob Yates – UC Berkeley, USA Martin Schrimpf – EPFL, Switzerland Maria Eckstein – Google DeepMind, UK Patrick Mineault – Amaranth Foundation, USA Carsen Stringer – HHMI Janelia Research Campus, USA Chris Summerfield – Oxford University, UK John Krakauer – Champalimaud, Portugal Memming Park – Champalimaud, Portugal Andreas Tolias – Stanford, USA Jonathan Pillow – Princeton University, USA Shailee Jain – UC San Francisco, USA Through hands-on tutorials and project work, participants will gain expertise in: Deep learning for vision and language (CNNs, transformers) Reinforcement learning algorithms State space models for neural time series Machine learning for biophysical models of neuronal circuits Please share with anyone who might be interested! Thanks for helping us spread the word! On behalf of the organizers, — Fabian Sinz — Dr. Fabian Sinz Professor for Machine Learning, Göttingen University Adjunct Assistant Professor, Baylor College of Medicine https://sinzlab.org/

Feb. 4, 2025

postdoc in energetics of cognition (U Montréal)

by Becket Ebitz

The Noise lab (PI: Becket Ebitz) at the Université de Montréal is looking for postdoctoral research associates for a project focused on understanding the energetics of exploratory behavior in humans and rhesus macaques. The project is focused on identifying links between statistical measures of the dynamics of cognitive states and the metabolic demands of the brain and body. We know that a diversity of perspectives improves and invigorates our work and we encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and with all identities. *About the environment:* We are a systems/cognitive neuroscience lab working on decision-making and executive function. The lab is highly sociable, values kindness, cooperation, and a good work-life balance, and covers costs related to professional development, conference travel, computers and supplies, and eligible moving expenses. We prize collaboration and most projects in the lab are led by teams of students and postdocs who are excited about sharing their skills and expertise. More information about our research is available on our website (http://ebitzlab.com) and in our recent papers. The lab is located in the Department of Neurosciences at the Université de Montréal (UdeM) and part of a number of research centers, including the Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherche sur le Cerveau et l’Apprentissage (CIRCA; Center for interdisciplinary research on the brain and learning) and Unifying Neuroscience-AI Quebec (UNIQUE). UdeM is one of the top research institutions in Canada and is especially well known for its work in data science, machine learning and AI (i.e. the world-renowned Mila Research Institute and IVADO, a $210 million Canada-First Research Excellence Fund program). The ideal candidate will be excited about building connections and collaborations across campus. *Position details:* Research projects in the lab involve behavioral and physiological experiments in humans, large-scale electrophysiology studies in the rhesus macaque, and computational modeling. We are open to candidates who are excited to focus on any and all of these techniques. This specific project is funded by the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research. Its goal is to understand how and why high-stress, energetically-demanding environments compromise cognitive flexibility. The project will build on computational and experimental techniques we developed in the lab to measure the neural computations involved in cognitive flexibility and characterize their energetic costs in the brain and body. The ideal candidate(s) will be excited to take the lead on their project(s), coordinating with technical staff, other students and postdocs, the PI, and other collaborators for support as needed. There are opportunities for international collaboration, including in analyzing human intracranial recording data, patient behavioral and/or imaging data, and rodent fiber photometry data. The postdoctoral researcher will also have opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students and to participate in professional development activities related to their long-term career goals. *Basic Qualifications:* - PhD expected or obtained in Neuroscience, Psychology, or Physiology, or computationally-intensive field (i.e. Math, Physics, or Engineering). - A record of academic productivity including several conference presentations and at least one manuscript in press. *Preferred Qualifications:* - Extensive programming experience (ideally with Matlab and/or Python). - Previous experience in collecting and analyzing neurophysiology data. - If working with NHPs, previous experience with NHPs or other large mammals. - Familiarity with dynamical systems theory, control theory, and/or linear algebra. - Solid written and oral communication skills in English. *How to Apply:* Please send a pdf of your CV to becket(a)ebitzlab.com. In your email, please describe 1) why you are interested in the position, and 2) your previous research. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and continue until the positions are filled. The start date is negotiable.

Feb. 3, 2025

Save the Date: International Artificial Intelligence Summer School – IAISS 2025, Sept 21-25, Riva del Sole Resort & SPA @ Tuscany * Early Registration: by 23 March *

by ICAS Organizing Committee

* Apologies for multiple copies. Please forward to anybody who might be interested, thanks. * SAVE THE DATE: IAISS 2025 Early Registration: by 23 March #IAISS2025, A Residential Summer School in AI & Generative AI for Science and Engineering IAISS 2025 is a full-immersion 5-day Summer School in Tuscany on cutting-edge advances in AI and Generative AI with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. Riva del Sole Resort & SPA @ Tuscany, Italy, Sept 21-25, 2025 https://2025.iaiss.cc iaiss(a)icas.cc EARLY REGISTRATION: by March 23 (AoE) https://2025.iaiss.cc/registration/ Oral Presentation Submission Deadline: by March 23 (AoE) Applicant *may* submit (during the Registration Process) a research abstract (max 2 pages; any format) for presentation. School directors and the scientific committee will review the abstracts and will recommend for poster and/or short talk. Abstract must be submitted by Sunday March 23, 2025 during the registration process. LECTURERS: Each Lecturer will hold up to four lectures on one or more research topics. Yuki Asano, University of Technology Nuremberg, Germany Pierre Baldi, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA Lucas Beyer, OpenAI, Zürich, Switzerland Wessel Bruinsma, Microsoft Research Amsterdam, The Netherlands Sam Buchanan, Toyota Technological Institute at Chicago, USA Floris Geerts, University of Antwerp, Belgium Sven Giesselbach, Fraunhofer Institute - IAIS, Germany & Telecom Systems Chin-Wei Huang, Microsoft Amsterdam, The Netherlands Vicky Kalogeiton, École Polytechnique Paris, France Thomas Kipf, Google DeepMind, USA Yi Ma, University of California, Berkeley, USA Abigail See, Google DeepMind, London, UK Michal Valko, Meta Paris, France More Speakers TBA TUTORIAL SPEAKERS: Druv Pai, University of California, Berkeley, USA Yaodong Yu, University of California, Berkeley, USA Peng Wang, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA https://2025.iaiss.cc/lecturers/ https://2025.iaiss.cc/lectures/ VENUE: https://2025.iaiss.cc/venue/ Riva del Sole Resort & SPA Località Riva del Sole‚ Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) CAP 58043‚ Tuscany‚ Italy p: +39-0564-928111 e: booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it w: https://www.rivadelsole.it/en/ REGISTRATION: https://2025.iaiss.cc/venue/ CERTIFICATE & 8 ECTS: The International Artificial Intelligence Summer School – IAISS 2025 is a full-immersion five-day Summer School at the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA (Castiglione della Pescaia – Grosseto – Tuscany, Italy) on cutting-edge advances in AI and Generative AI with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. The Summer School provides a stimulating environment for PhD students, Post-Docs, junior academics (only up to assistant professors), early career researchers, and industry leaders (and highly motivated, promising and brilliant Master students / BSc students). Participants will also have the chance to present their results with talks, and to interact with their colleagues, in a convivial, professional and productive environment. PhD students, PostDocs, Industry Practitioners and Junior Academics (only up to assistant professors) will be typical profiles of the IAISS attendants. The Summer School will involve a total of 36–40 hours of lectures, according to the academic system the final achievement will be equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students (and some strongly motivated Master Student – BSc Student) attending the Summer School. Language: English. To participate in the IAISS 2025, all attendants must (1/2) register for the school (by March 23, 2025) and (2/2) book accommodation at the school venue, “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA” (by July 23, 2025); all attendants must stay at the “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA”. Once accommodation has been booked at “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA“, the participant must send this information (including the Booking Number) to the IAISS organizing committee (iaiss(a)icas.cc) IAISS is a residential school, so all lecturers and participants must reside in the same Hotel (Riva del Sole Resort & SPA). No exceptions are made. For privacy reasons, the Hotel cannot match people. If you have someone to share the apartment with, please send to the Hotel ( booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it ) the name, surname and email address. Otherwise the solution is to book an apartment in single use. IAISS is organized as a non-profit scientific event. Please note that only IAISS registered participants can book a room (in hotel or apartment) at the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA with the accommodation form attached in the registration email and with the IAISS Discounted Rates. The Booking Office of the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA will verify the names of the participants and the corresponding registration number to confirm the booking. Anyone interested in participating in IAISS 2025 should register as soon as possible: https://2025.iaiss.cc/registration/ See you in Riva del Sole in September! IAISS 2025 Organizing Committees. https://2025.iaiss.cc iaiss(a)icas.cc Obviously, this is only a Call for Participation, to have complete and updated information we recommend you access the relevant website: https://2025.iaiss.cc the News Section: https://2025.iaiss.cc/category/news/ and the FAQ: https://2025.iaiss.cc/faq/ * Apologies for multiple copies. Please forward to anybody who might be interested, thanks * *8th Advanced Course on Data Science & Machine Learning - ACDL 2025, **9**-13 June*, Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) – Tuscany, Italy *An Interdisciplinary Residential Course: from Deep Learning to Generative Artificial Intelligence* *Early Registration: by February 23, 2025 (AoE)* https://acdl2025.icas.events/registration/ https://acdl2025.icas.events/ acdl(a)icas.cc The Course is equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students and the Master Students attending the Course. *11th International Conference on Learning, Optimization and Data – LOD 2025, *21–24 September Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy https://lod2025.icas.events/ lod(a)icas.cc *5th Advanced Course ** and Symposium **on Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience – ACAIN 2025,* 21–24 September Riva del Sole Resort & SPA, Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) Tuscany, Italy https://acain2025.icas.events/ acain(a)icas.cc *Symposium **Author Registration Deadline: March 23 * *Course Early Registration Deadline: March 23* The Course is equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students and the Master Students attending the Course. *ICAS - The Interdisciplinary Centre of Advanced Studies* *https://icas.cc/* <https://icas.cc/>

Feb. 3, 2025

PhD opportunity in Astrocyte-Neuron computational modelling- Deadline 24th Feb

by Flanagan, Bronac

The Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Ulster University is advertising a funded PhD position for a project titled "Unlocking the Brain's Balance: Understanding Astrocyte Influence on Neural Communication Through Computer Modelling." This cutting-edge research project at Ulster University dives into one of the brain's most fascinating mechanisms: the conversation between brain cells that keeps our minds healthy and functioning. Our brains are incredibly complex networks where different types of cells work together in perfect harmony. At the centre of this research are astrocytes - star-shaped brain cells that act as the brain's supervisors. These cells manage a crucial molecule called GABA through a specialised transporter (GAT-3), which acts like a traffic controller for brain signals. When this system doesn't work properly, it can lead to various conditions that affect millions worldwide, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). What We'll Do Using advanced computer modelling, this project will create detailed models of how brain cells interact, study how GABA levels affect brain circuit behaviour and investigate how changes in this system might lead to neurological conditions. Throughout this PhD, you'll gain expertise in: * Computational neuroscience modelling * Biophysical modelling of cellular processes * Scientific programming and version control * Collaboration with experimental neuroscientists More details about this position are available at Unlocking the Brain's Balance: Understanding Astrocyte Influence on Neural Communication Through Computer Modelling<https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/11b-intelligent-systems…> For more information about the research environment at ISRC, visit About Intelligent Systems Research Centre<https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research/topic/computer-science/intelligent-system…> The PhD position is at Ulster University's Derry campus, one of the UK's top 10 research institutions. Recently named 'University of the Year 2024' by Times Higher Education, Ulster University is now the highest-ranked higher education institution in the UK and Ireland. The historic city of Derry, situated on the River Foyle in Northwest Northern Ireland, offers an ideal location between the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway Coast. Its rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and numerous family activities make it an excellent place to live. Please contact Bronac (b.flanagan(a)ulster.ac.uk<mailto:b.flanagan@ulster.ac.uk>) if you are interested or have questions. Should you receive this email outside of business hours, no reply is required until the next working day This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

Feb. 3, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Matthew Golub, University of Washington

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Matthew Golub University of Washington on the topic of Active learning of neural population dynamics The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Recent advances in techniques for monitoring and perturbing neural populations have greatly enhanced our ability to study circuits in the brain. In particular, two-photon holographic optogenetics now enables precise photostimulation of experimenter-specified groups of individual neurons, while simultaneous two-photon calcium imaging enables the measurement of ongoing and induced activity across the neural population. Despite the enormous space of potential photostimulation patterns and the time-consuming nature of photostimulation experiments, very little algorithmic work has been done to determine the most effective photostimulation patterns for identifying the neural population dynamics. Here, I will discuss ongoing development of active learning techniques to efficiently select which neurons to stimulate such that the resulting neural responses will best inform a dynamical model of the neural population activity. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Feb. 2, 2025

Faculty positions in Canada

by Luczak, Artur

Here are 2 still open positions: Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence https://uleth.peopleadmin.ca/postings/7749 Neuroscience Assistant Professor - Tenure Track https://uleth.peopleadmin.ca/postings/7731 The search process has already started, however candidates may still be considered if application is sent asap. The Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience offers an excellent work environment and hosts several world-class scientists: https://www.ulethbridge.ca/artsci/neuroscience/our-faculty We are also located near the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, which provide outstanding skiing and other outdoor recreational opportunities. If you are interested, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Best, Artur Luczak Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge https://people.uleth.ca/~luczak/

Jan. 31, 2025

Bio-inspired deep learning workshop

by Maximilian Eggl

Hey everyone, We are pleased to announce a workshop on bio-inspired deep learning led by Dr. Angus Chadwick (link to his website can be seen here <https://homepages.inf.ed.ac.uk/achadwic/>) from the University of Edinburgh and funded by the support of the Joachim Herz Foundation. Accommodation, meals and venue are funded by the foundation and the participants only need to cover their travel cost. The workshop will take place from the 22nd to the 25th of April, 2025, near Mainz. This workshop will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in the field and explore the intersection of mathematical modelling, machine learning, and data analysis to understand how the brain works. We believe this workshop will be of great interest to those interested in acquiring dimensionality reduction tools to analyze large-scale, time-varying systems. Biological insights as well as machine learning skills are key and therefore we would encourage applications from doctoral candidates/postdocs from both biological and computational fields. More information on the workshop and a link to the application can be found in the attached flyer (which can also be found here <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/347ns89xrsrkypb5n6s7q/Workshop_Flyer.pdf?rlk…>). You can also directly access the application <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_BDJdIJd8qLDDBCaCAMIStqit-FEKwE0…>here <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_BDJdIJd8qLDDBCaCAMIStqit-FEKwE0…>. The deadline for the application is the 21st of February at 12:00 (CET). If you have any questions or are interested in attending this workshop, please do not hesitate to contact either Max at maximilianfeggl(a)gmail.com <mailto:maximilianfeggl@gmail.com>, Laura at bernaez.laura(a)gmail.com <mailto:bernaez.laura@gmail.coms> or Janko at petkojan(a)uni-bonn.de <mailto:petkojan@uni-bonn.de> I would also be grateful if you could forward this to anyone you think would be interested and advertise it in your institutions. We look forward to seeing you there! Sincerely, Laura, Max & Janko

Jan. 31, 2025

Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour 2025 ( Application open )

by Ahmed El Hady

*Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour 2025* *Konstanz, Germany * *Deadline to apply: April 15th, 2025* ** The Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour (KSCB) <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/about/> will take place between /21st July 2025 – 8th August 2025/ at the Cluster of Excellence Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour (CASCB) at the University of Konstanz <https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/>. Uni Konstanz is a University of Excellence and ranked #1 young university in Germany with “Collective Behaviour" <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/collective-behaviour/> as one of five research foci. Konstanz <https://www.konstanz.de/start> is a vibrant, small city located on the border between Germany and Switzerland, on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance). Over three weeks, students will delve deeply into the topic of collective behaviour with lectures, hands-on tutorials, and projects, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. The school faculty will cover collective behaviours across a variety of species from cells, worms, drosophila, fish to non – human primates and human. A set of tutorials delving into state-of-the-art quantitative methods used to study collective behaviour will complement the lectures. At the end of the school, students will work on independent projects guided by our resident faculty. Accommodation will be provided and paid by the organizers. A limited number of travel grants will be provided and a registration fee will be due (500 Euros) once the student is admitted to the Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour. The registration fee will be waived to those coming from underrepresented minorities and those in need of financial support. The submission of applications for the second Konstanz School of Collective Behaviour was open until April 15, 2025. We will inform you on May 15, 2025 whether your application was successful For further information and application, visit our website: _https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/application-procedure/ <https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/kscb/application-procedure/> _ *KSCB 2025 faculty : * ·Iain Couzin ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) ·Peter Dayan ( Max Planck Institute of Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen) ·Ilya Nemenman ( Emory University , USA) ·Yonatan Loewenstein ( Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel) ·Aneta Koseska ( Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology of Behavior, Bonn) ·Francesco Ginelli ( Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Italy) ·Thejasvi Ravindra Beleyur ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz) ·Liang Li ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Konstanz) ·Giovanni Reinna ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz) ·Einat Couzin-Fuchs ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz ) ·Ofer Feinermann ( Weizmann Institute of Sciences, Israel) ·Naama Brenner ( Israel Institute of Technology, Israel) ·Ariana Strandburg-Peshkin ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) ·Wataru Toyokawa (Riken Center for Brain Science in Tokyo). ·Raphaela Heesen ( University of Konstanz, Konstanz) ·Caroline Schuppli ( Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior , Konstanz) *Contact: **ahmed.el-hady(a)uni-konstanz.de <mailto:ahmed.el-hady@uni-konstanz.de> * All the best regards, Ahmed El Hady On behalf of the KSCB organizational committee Dr. Ahmed El Hady Principal Investigator Cluster for Advanced Study of Collective Behavior, University of Konstanz Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz Room ZT 907 Postbox 687 Tel.: +49 7531 88-4742

Jan. 31, 2025

MODVIS 2025 - Call for Papers

by Tim Oleskiw

The 2025 VSS satellite workshop on computational and mathematical models in vision (MODVIS) will be held May 14-15 in St. Pete Beach FL, the two days immediately preceding the main meeting (which now starts Friday morning, instead of the traditional Friday afternoon). The program consists of contributed oral presentations, which are longer and more interactive than a regular VSS talk, and the schedule is designed to provide many opportunities for discussions during coffee breaks and a generous lunch break. The workshop will conclude on Thursday with a keynote lecture given by James Elder (York University). Each presenter may publish a 1-page PDF extended abstract of their presentation, on the Purdue ePubs system. The abstracts from previous workshops can be viewed here <https://www.purdue.edu/conferences/events/modvis/program.php>. The deadline for submissions is March 1st, but authors may revise their abstracts up until publication by Purdue, typically in the week before the workshop. Discounted registration is available until March 31st, with a deeply discounted rate for students and retirees. Registration fees support refreshments and A/V services; it is not necessary to register for VSS or to be a VSS member to attend MODVIS. For complete details, please refer to the the workshop website:https://www.purdue.edu/conferences/events/modvis/ On behalf of the MODVIS organizing committee, Tim Oleskiw Assistant Professor University of Regina -- *Timothy D. Oleskiw, PhD* Assistant Professor, CS *E *oleskiw(a)uregina.ca *P *(306) 337 3109 *A *RIC 320, 3737 Wascana Pkw.

Jan. 29, 2025

WiMR 2025 - deadline approaching

by Vinita Samarasinghe

The deadline for the Women in Memory Research program is approaching. Please pass this information on to anyone whom you think might be interested in pursuing a PhD in the field. The*deadline *is*February 15th 2025. * *Women in Memory Research 2025* The research unit “Constructing scenarios of the past” seeks to promote women in memory research. The program WiMR 2025 is made possible through a grant from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and collaboration with the Ruhr University Bochum. Come and learn what an academic career looks likeand discover its advantages. During your week at the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB)you will participate in GEM 2025 where you will hear about the latest research in generative episodic memory, be given the opportunityto present your research and meet with female scientists from the field. Before and after GEM you'll be introduced to Bochum, the RUB and the FOR 2812 labs <https://for2812.rub.de/projects/>. Our participating senior scientists include: Ali Boyle, London School of Economics; Iris Engelhard, Utrecht University; Xenia Kobeleva, Ruhr U. Bochum; Sabine Seehagen, Ruhr U. Bochum; Kristina Liefke, Ruhr University Bochum. Sounds exciting? *Who can apply:* Womenmasters students in their final year of study and recently graduated masters students who are looking into an academic career in the area of memory research/neuroscience. Applicants must have excellent grades and be able to communicate in English. Selection of participants is competitive. We only have 12 spots! *How to apply:* Send your application including a one page letter of motivation, a current CV, masters transcripts and a letter of recommendation from one of your professors. Your application should be sent, as a single PDF document, to Vinita Samarasinghe @ for2812+gem(a)rub.de <mailto:for2812@rub.de> by February 15, 2025 with the subject line "WiMR - application". If you need child care or any other support please note this in your application. Applications will be evaluated and ranked after the deadline has passed and notifications will be sent out by 28.02.2025. If you accept, you must register for GEM 2025. *What to expect from us:* We will provide bed and breakfast (single occupancy), cover travel costs (restrictions apply) and provide some meals. The program is offered in English. *What we expect from you:* You are present for all of the program and that you present your current research in the form of a poster at GEM 2025. *Tentative program: * 02.06.2025 AM Welcome to Bochum PM GEM 2025 03.06.2025 GEM 2025 04.06.2025 AM GEM 2025 PM Fireside chat with senior memory researchers 05.06.2025 Lab visits 06.06.2025 Workshop *Questions? * Visit our website at https://for2812.rub.de/wimr2025 for more information. Please feel free to get in touch with Vinita Samarasinghe (for2812(a)rub.de <mailto:for2812@rub.de>) if you have any questions. -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Jan. 29, 2025

6th International Conference on Mathematics of Neuroscience and AI (Split, Croatia, 27-30 May 2025)

by Battleday, Ruairidh

We are delighted to announce the 6th International Conference on the Mathematics of Neuroscience and AI, to be held in the National Theatre, Split, Croatia, 27-30th May 2025: www.neuromonster.org In this high-profile conference we examine computational accounts of the brain and mind. We then take findings and theory back into the creation of robust, generalizable, and scalable AI. We hear from leading researchers over four days, spanning biocomputation, neural theory, cognitive science, and machine learning & artificial intelligence (AI). Each day will have keynotes, invited speakers, a poster session, and 6 spotlight talks invited from abstract submissions. Abstract submissions and early bird registration are open (see below). The first 100 tickets can get an extra 20% off using discount code SUPEREARLYNM25. Keynote Speakers Professor Jay McClelland (Stanford & DeepMind) Professor Wolfgang Maass (Graz) Professor Christine Constantinople (NYU) Professor Jakob Foerster (Oxford & Meta) Dr Ida Momennejad (Microsoft) Session Chairs Dr Valeria Fascianelli (Columbia; Biocomputation) Dr Francesca Mignacco (NYU & Princeton; Biocomputation) Yasmine Ayman (Harvard; Neural theory) Dr James Whittington (Oxford & Stanford; Neural theory) Professor Bill Thompson (UC Berkeley; Cognitive science) Dr Maria Eckstein (DeepMind; Cognitive science) Mikey Lepori (Brown & DeepMind; Machine learning & AI) Professor Ilia Sucholutsky (NYU; Machine learning & AI) Location The conference will be held at Croatia’s National Theatre in Split, 10 minutes walk from the ancient harbour. Split is served by two nearby international airports (Split and Dubrovnik) with low-price carriers as well as several ferry lines from the wider Mediterranean. Submissions The submission format is an abstract of 250 words, and we invite submissions for each session via the following Google form: https://forms.gle/a9JDH5B4Z5otS69Y7 These will be accepted for poster, with the best 6 papers in each session category given an additional spotlight talk. Submission deadline is 2nd March AOE. Super-early bird tickets A limited number of early-bird registrations have been posted on our website! Normal registration will follow after the submission deadline. The first 100 tickets can get an extra 20% off using discount code SUPEREARLYNM25. Come and join the fun! Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday (Harvard & MIT) Dr James Whittington (Oxford & Stanford) Dr Ivana Kajic (DeepMind) Professor Dan V. Nicolau Jr (Kings College London) The Organizing Committee. -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD President Thinking About Thinking, Inc <https://thinkingaboutthinking.org> Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Jan. 29, 2025

Summer Workshop on the Dynamic Brain -- applications due Feb 1st, 2025

by Eric Shea-Brown

Please apply to come join us at the Summer Workshop on the Dynamic Brain, co-organized by the Allen Institute and the University of Washington’s Computational Neuroscience Center. The course takes place at Friday Harbor Laboratory in the beautiful San Juan Islands. This 2-week residential program is intended for researchers at the PhD student and postdoctoral level with an interest in developing and expressing their computational skillsets. This is done through workshops, lectures, and hands on, mentored projects using exciting and large-scale neurophysiology, population dynamics, behavior, and connectivity datasets. Additional info and application link can be found on the SWDB website. <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://alleninstitute.org/events/summer-worksh…>

Jan. 27, 2025

Calling for Applications: WBAI Incentive Award—Supporting Your Challenge in Brain-Inspired AGI

by 山川宏

Dear all, The Whole Brain Architecture Initiative (WBAI) is delighted to announce that we welcome candidates for our annual WBAI Incentive Award. This award is dedicated to supporting whole brain architecture research. https://wba-initiative.org/en/25135/ ### About the Award The WBAI Incentive Award honors individuals or teams who have contributed outstandingly to developing brain-inspired artificial general intelligence (AGI). Past awardees have pushed the boundaries of AI technology and its applications, leading to significant breakthroughs. Examples of Previous Awardees - David Rawlinson (2024 Award) Explored neural architectures based on biological approaches. - Sun Yuwei (2023 Award) Developed algorithms leveraging global workspace theory. - Matthew Crosby & Benjamin Beyret (2020 Award) Created virtual environments to evaluate animal intelligence, fostering worldwide research collaboration. See more past awardees here ( https://wba-initiative.org/en/wbaiia_awardees/ ). Who knows—you could be the next to shine! ### Application Details - Eligibility Individuals, teams, or organizations (no age or affiliation restrictions) - Basis for Selection Research and development achievements from the past five years (up to the end of 2024), including research papers, datasets, software, etc. - Application Period February 1, 2025 – April 30, 2025 - Prize A certificate and a monetary award of 50,000 JPY ### How to Apply Submit your application via the form below: https://gogl.to/3Kyb Additional materials may be requested if necessary. ### Award Ceremony The award ceremony will be held at the 10th Whole Brain Architecture Symposium, scheduled for summer or fall 2025. ### Be Part of Creating the Future Your research could be the key to advancing brain-inspired AI technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your work and contribute to shaping the future of AI. --- Whole Brain Architecture Initiative (WBAI) Chairperson: Hiroshi Yamakawa

Jan. 27, 2025

[Call for Participation] The 2nd International Whole Brain Architecture Workshop (Feb 24th AM (JST) ) [Hybrid]

by ymkw＠wba-initiative.org

Dear, all, This is Hiroshi Yamakawa from the Whole Brain Architecture Initiative (WBAI), a specified non-profit organization. We are pleased to announce that, as detailed below, we will be holding "The 2nd International Whole Brain Architecture Workshop. " This workshop is a key activity of WBAI to develop human-brain-inspired artificial intelligence. Specifically, we aim to share and utilize Brain Reference Architecture (BRA) data and related data papers, which serve as standardized design specifications for human brain-inspired AI. This workshop will allow researchers and experts from various fields, including neuroscience, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence, who work toward understanding and mimicking brain computational functions to share and utilize such data. This workshop will be held during the first Hackathon of the Transformative Research Area (A), "Biology of Behavior Change." We look forward to your participation. 【Event Details】 Date & Time: Monday, February 24, 2025, 9:00-12:00 (JST) Format: Hybrid (General participants are limited to online participation.) (On-site venue: Tokyo Nihonbashi Life Science Hub 8F LSH-D Meeting Room) Language: English Participation Fee: Free 【How to Register】 For general participation (online), please fill out the registration form via the link below: https://gogl.to/3KLz *Registered participants will receive Zoom meeting registration information (URL) the day before and on the event day. 【Organization】 Organizer: The Whole Brain Architecture Initiative (NPO) Supported by: Transformative Research Areas (A) "Biology of Behavior Change" Executed by: The WBA Event Operations Group Program Chair: Yoshimasa Tawatsuji Executive Chair: Hiroshi Yamakawa 【Detailed Information】 For more information, visit https://wba-initiative.org/24521/ If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at: bra-support(a)wba-initiative.org Best regards, Hiroshi Yamakawa Chairperson The Whole Brain Architecture Initiative

Jan. 27, 2025

Deadline for application for Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2025 (OCNC 2025) approaching

by Erik De Schutter

The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 23th through July 10th, 2025 at an seafront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://www.oist.jp/conference/ocnc-2025) only; January 1 - January 31, 2025. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance end of March. Like in preceding years, the 2025 OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international and local experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. For the first time we charge a modest tuition fee of 60,000JPY. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Lecturers: Erik De Schutter (OIST) Kenji Doya (OIST) Tomoki Fukai (OIST) Bernd Kuhn (OIST) Alexander Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Lucy Palmer (University of Melbourne, Australia) Gerald Pao (OIST) Padmini Rangamani (University of California, San Diego, USA) Sam Reiter (OIST) Yu Takagi (National Institute of Informatics) Kazumasa Tanaka (OIST) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Jeff Wickens (OIST)

Jan. 27, 2025

ICANN 2025 - Call for Papers, Special Sessions, Workshops and Tutorials

by Sebastian Otte

=============================================================================== ICANN 2025 - CALL FOR PAPERS, SPECIAL SESSIONS, WORKHOPS AND TUTORIALS =============================================================================== The 34th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks ICANN 2025 is one of the premier conferences in the field of artificial intelligence, neural networks, neuroscience and brain-inspired computing in Europe, organized in collaboration with the European Neural Network Society ENNS. In 2025, the ICANN will take place in Kaunas, Lithuania. Conference Dates: September 9 to September 12, 2025 Conference Venue: Campus of Vytautas Magnus University and Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania Conference Webpage: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/ General co-Chairs: Yoshua Bengio (Université de Montréal, Canada) Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, France; EBRAINS) Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Linas Petkevičius (Vilnius University, Artificial intelligence Association of Lithuania, Lithuania) Prof. Yoshua Bengio is a Turing Award laureate and is globally recognized as a pioneer of deep learning and artificial neural networks, driving groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence. Prof. Viktor Jirsa is renowned for his work in theoretical neuroscience and Virtual Brain Twins, serving as Chief Science Officer of EBRAINS, Europe’s research infrastructure in digital neuroscience. With the exceptional leadership and expertise of the Chairs, ICANN 2025 promises to be a transformative event with the dual track of Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning and Neuroscience. The ICANN attracts a global audience of researchers, practitioners & industry experts and provides a forum for the presentation of cutting-edge research papers and invited keynote talks by leading experts. It includes workshops and tutorials, as well as engaging demo sessions. In 2025, ICANN will continue its proud tradition of being a dynamic and interactive conference, fostering collaboration across academia and industry. =============================================================================== We invite prospective authors to submit original and innovative papers in the following areas: AI and Machine Learning: Theory and Foundations of Neural Networks, Novel Neural Network Architectures, Topics in Neural Networks, Large Language Models, Explainable AI, Machine Learning for Graphs, Graph Neural Networks, Clustering, Reinforcement Learning, New Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Neurorobotics Neuroscience: Cognitive and Theoretical/Computational Neuroscience, Brain-Inspired Computing, Neuromorphic Systems, Digital Twins and Virtual Brain models Applications: Human-Computer Interaction, Biosignal Processing, Medicine and Physiology, Speech and Language Processing, Computer Vision, Robotics, Climate and Environment, General Applications of Machine Learning Call for Papers Authors willing to present original contributions in either the oral or poster category are invited to submit: - A full paper of 6-12 pages (including references) to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series with individual DOI. - An extended abstract of maximum 2 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series, without individual indexing. Papers will undergo rigorous peer review; the Program Committee will make the final decision on which papers will be included in the conference program. Selected papers will be assigned to oral sessions (15 minutes presentation + 5 minutes questions) and poster sessions, depending on the number of submissions; this assignment does in no way incur a judgment on paper quality. Note that presentation rules for workshops and special sessions may differ. All accepted papers will be published in the Springer LNCS series. Papers must be written in English language and must conform to the format defined in the Author’s Kit, available on the conference webpage at: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/submission The ICANN 2025 will be an in-person conference. At least one co-author of each paper must physically attend the conference in Kaunas to present the work. Call for Special Sessions, Workshops and Tutorials We invite prospective organizers to submit Special Sessions, Workshops and Tutorials. For details and updates, as well as for the final list of workshops and special sessions, please check: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/call-for-papers-2/call-for-workshops-and-specia… KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Emmanuel Bengio (Valence Labs/Recursion, Canada) Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille Université, France; EBRAINS) Christiane Woopen (University of Bonn, Germany) Oher keynote speakers to be announced. CONFIRMED TUTORIALS Dr. Emmanuael Bengio will give a Tutorial on GflowNets. Prof. Viktor Jirsa and his team will provide a Tutorial on The Virtual Brain, an open-source neuroscience platform designed to simulate and model personalised human brain models. CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Program Chairs Walter Senn (University of Bern, Switzerland) Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Alessio Micheli (University of Pisa, Italy) Marcello Sanguineti (University of Genova, Italy) Igor Tetko (Helmholtz Munich, Germany) Alessandro Villa (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Communication Chairs Sebastian Otte (University of Lübeck, Germany) Jurgita Kapociute-Dzikiene (Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Honorary Chairs Vera Kurkova (Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague) Alessandro Villa (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Stefan Wermter (University of Hamburg, Germany) Local Organizing Committee Ausra Saudargiene (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Linas Petkevičius (Vilnius University, Artificial intelligence Association of Lithuania, Lithuania) Jurgita Kapociute-Dzikiene (Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Workshop, Tutorials and Special Session Chairs Povilas Daniusis (Neurotechnology/Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania) Dalius Matuzevičius (VilniusTech) Sponsorship Chair Dalia Breskuvienė (Vilnius University) Diversity & Inclusion Chair Kamilė Dementavičiūtė (Vinted) Steering Committee Stefan Wermter (University of Hamburg, Germany) Angelo Cangelosi (University of Manchester, UK) Igor Farkaš (Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Chrisina Jayne (Teesside University, UK) Matthias Kerzel (University of Hamburg, Germany) Alessandra Lintas (University of Lausanne, Switzerland) Kristína Malinovská (Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Jaakko Peltonen (Tampere University, Finland) Brigitte Quenet (ESPCI Paris, France) Roseli Wedemann (Rio de Janeiro State University, Brazil) Sebastian Otte (University of Lübeck, Germany) IMPORTANT DATES - Opening of submission portal: 15 February 2025 - Deadline for full paper and abstract submission: 15 March 2025 - Final notification of Acceptance or Rejection: 15 May 2025 - Camera-ready paper upload and author registration: 1 June 2025 For questions, please contact: icann-2025-program-committee(a)googlegroups.com Link to this call: https://e-nns.org/icann2025/call-for-papers

Jan. 26, 2025

World Wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Hadas Benisty, Technion, Haifa

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Hadas Benisty Technion, Haifa on the topic of A Geometric Approach for the Study of Functional Connectivity Dynamics The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Functional connectivity has been the focus of many research groups aiming to study the interaction between cells and brain regions. A standard method for analyzing connectivity is to statistically compare pairwise interactions between cells or brain regions across behavioral states or conditions. This methodology ignores the intrinsic properties of functional connectivity as a multivariate and dynamic signal, expressing the correlational configuration of the network. In this talk, I will present a geometric approach, combining Graph Theory and Riemannian Geometry to build "a graph of graphs" and extract the latent dynamics of the overall correlational structure. Using this approach, we formulate the statistical relations between network dynamics and spontaneous behavior as a second-order Taylor’s expansion. Our analysis shows that fast fluctuations in functional connectivity of large-scale cortical networks are closely linked to variations in behavioral metrics related to the arousal state. We further expand this methodology to longer time scales to study the effect of dopamine on network dynamics in the primary motor cortex (M1) during learning. We developed a series of analysis methods indicating that as animals learn to perform a motor task, the network of pyramidal neurons in layer 2-3 gradually and monotonically reorganizes toward an "expert" configuration. Our results highlight the critical role of dopamine in driving synaptic plasticity: Blocking dopaminergic neurotransmission locally in M1 prevented motor learning at the behavioral level and concomitantly halted plasticity changes in network activity and in functional connectivity. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ ᐧ

Jan. 26, 2025

Save the date: UK Neural Computation meeting July 9-11, Imperial College London

by Mark Humphries

Save the date! The UK Neural Computation meeting 2025 will be at Imperial College London, bringing together the UK’s computational and systems neuroscience community 9 July: ECR day 10-11 July: main meeting 9 invited speakers, 4 talks from abstracts and loads of posters More details: https://neuralcomputation.uk/ Abstract submission and registration opening soon Please spread the word! Organisers Danyal Akarca (Imperial) Dan Goodman (Imperial) Mark Humphries (Nottingham) This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

Jan. 24, 2025

Call for Abstracts: 34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2025), Florence, Italy, July 5-9, 2025

by Rubchinsky, Leonid L

Dear Colleagues, We are inviting abstracts for the 34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2025), which will be in Florence, Italy, July 5-9, 2025. The main meeting begins in the evening of Saturday, July 5 and runs through Tuesday, July 8. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Saturday, July 5) and followed by workshops (Tuesday, July 8 mixed with the main meeting and Wednesday, July 9 workshops only). Registration and abstract submission are open now. Abstract submission deadline: March 11, 2025. Note that one of the authors must register as a sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Submitted abstracts are used for creating the program and for publication. Please follow the formatting guidelines on the submission site. Travel awards are available for student and postdoc members of OCNS. Please apply during the abstract submission form and note that an extended abstract is required when applying for a travel award or oral presentation format. Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/cns-2025-registration Abstract submission: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-abstract-submission CNS*2025 meeting information: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025 Workshop proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-call-for-workshops Tutorial proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-call-for-tutorials With kind regards, Leonid Rubchinsky OCNS Vice President, on behalf of the OCNS Board of Directors *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202-3216 lrubchin(a)iu.edu math.indianapolis.iu.edu/~lrubchin/ ***********************

Jan. 23, 2025

[CFP] ICLR 2025 workshop I Can't Believe It's Not Better: Challenges in Applied Deep Learning

by Jennifer Williams

*ICLR 2025 <https://iclr.cc/> Workshop: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Better: Challenges in Applied Deep Learning* *Call for Papers: *This workshop focuses on negative results, failed experiments, and unexpected challenges encountered when applying deep learning to real-world problems across industry and science. By openly sharing these hurdles, we aim to advance the field through transparency, foster learning, and prevent repeated missteps. *We welcome submissions* that apply deep learning to various domains including, but not limited to, neuroscience, healthcare, psychology and feature: 1. A real-world use case where deep learning was applied. 2. An existing deep learning solution proposed in the literature. 3. An observed negative or unexpected outcome. 4. An analysis of why the approach did not work as anticipated. Possible reasons may include data issues, model assumptions, interpretability gaps, scalability challenges, or deployment constraints. Submissions will be evaluated based on rigor, novelty, clarity, reproducibility, and the depth of their insights. *Key Dates:* • Submission Deadline: February 3, 2025 (11:59 pm AOE) • Acceptance Notification: March 5, 2025 • Workshop: April 27 or 28, 2025 Accepted papers will appear on OpenReview and the workshop website, with the option for inclusion in PMLR proceedings <https://proceedings.mlr.press/>. We will also nominate outstanding submissions for spotlight talks and two awards: the “Entropic Award” for the most surprising negative result and the “Didactic Award” for the most pedagogically valuable paper. For more information on our past workshops, the ICBINB initiative, and submission details, please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/icbinb-2025/call-for-papers We look forward to your contributions! Sincerely, The I Can’t Believe It’s Not Better Organizing Team

Jan. 23, 2025

InterfaceNeuro meeting May 7-8 in Atlanta

by Rozell, Christopher J

I’m writing to invite you to attend a conference hosted May 7-8 at Georgia Tech called InterfaceNeuro (https://interfaceneuro.org) which targets the intersection of neuroscience, neuroengineering, clinical/translational research, neurotech industry, and individuals with lived experiences. While each of these areas obviously has their own meetings, this conference is unique in interfacing these areas all together to find points of collaboration. The theme this year is "Integrating Brain, Body, and Machine for Next-Gen Intelligent Interfaces". The program features curated invited talks, a keynote from Dr. Mike Okun, contributed poster sessions, and a featured event focused on patient's lived experiences with neurotechnology. You can see from the program that the curated talks have been chosen to span disciplines and generate discussion. We've minimized registration fees to try and make the meeting as accessible as possible (note that there is no virtual component). Poster submissions are due by March 14 (as part of registration), and there will be a slate of best poster prizes for trainees. This will be the first meeting hosted by Georgia Tech building off of previous offerings by Rice University’s Neuroengineering Initiative, and we are excited to welcome you all to Atlanta. Please reach out if you have questions. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you in May!

Jan. 22, 2025

EPSRC PhD scholarships at the University of Sussex

by James Bennett

The University of Sussex invites applications for 10 PhD scholarships funded by the EPSRC for an autumn 2025 start. We are offering a wide range of cross-disciplinary research projects and research themes, many of which have a computational neuroscience and/or neuroAI focus, and are led by faculty across the university, including members of Sussex AI <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/ai-research-group/>, the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-centre-for-consciousness-s…>, and Sussex Neuroscience <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-neuroscience/>. Studentships include: - 3.5 years of funding with a tax free living allowance at the standard Research Council rate – currently £19,237 in 2024-5 – and international or UK PhD fees. - An option of 3 months of additional funding to cover a placement outside academia. - Funding for training and research expenses, such as conference trips and experimental costs. - Supervision by world-leading researchers. - Our Entrepreneurship Summer School and Responsible Research and Innovation workshops, tailored to the needs of engineering and physical sciences researchers. - Our Researcher Development workshops and access to taught modules relevant to your project. A brochure of research projects/themes offered by our faculty is available here: Sussex EPSRC Brochure 2025-26 <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/downloads/funding/awards/1818/Sussex%20EPSRC…> For more information on how to apply, follow this link: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/fees-funding/phd-funding/view/1818-EPSRC-Sci… Dr. James Bennett Assistant Professor in Computer Science and AI Dept. Informatics University of Sussex Sussex AI <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/ai-research-group/>, Sussex Neuroscience <https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-neuroscience/>

Jan. 21, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Srdjan Ostojic, Ecole normale supérieure, Paris

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Srdjan Ostojic Ecole normale supérieure, Paris on the topic of Structured Excitatory-Inhibitory Networks: a low-rank approach The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Networks of excitatory and inhibitory (EI) neurons form a canonical circuit in the brain. Classical theoretical analyses of dynamics in EI networks have revealed key principles such as EI balance or paradoxical responses to external inputs. These seminal results assume that synaptic strengths depend on the type of neurons they connect but are otherwise statistically independent. However, recent synaptic physiology datasets have uncovered connectivity patterns that deviate significantly from independent connection models. Simultaneously, studies of task-trained recurrent networks have emphasized the role of connectivity structure in implementing neural computations. Despite these findings, integrating detailed connectivity structures into mean-field theories of EI networks remains a substantial challenge. In this talk, I will outline a theoretical approach to understanding dynamics in structured EI networks by employing a low-rank approximation based on an analytical computation of the dominant eigenvalues of the full connectivity matrix. I will illustrate this approach by investigating the effects of pair-wise connectivity motifs on linear dynamics in EI networks. Specifically, I will present recent results demonstrating that an over-representation of chain motifs induces a strong positive eigenvalue in inhibition-dominated networks, generating a potential instability that challenges classical EI balance criteria. Furthermore, by examining the effects of external input, we found that chain motifs can, on their own, induce paradoxical responses, wherein an increased input to inhibitory neurons leads to a counterintuitive decrease in their activity through recurrent feedback mechanisms. Altogether, our theoretical approach opens new avenues for relating recorded connectivity structures with dynamics and computations in biological networks. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ ᐧ

Jan. 19, 2025

Save the date: NEST Conference 2025 will take place 17–18 June (online)

by Hans Ekkehard Plesser

Dear Colleagues, The NEST Initiative is excited to invite everyone interested in neural simulation technology, simulation-based neuroscience and NEST Software to the NEST Conference 2025. Save the date for the virtual conference, taking place online on 17–18 June 2025! The annual NEST Conference provides an opportunity for the NEST Community to meet, exchange success stories, swap advice, learn about current developments in and around NEST spiking network simulation and its application. We particularly encourage young scientists to participate in the conference! Registration and abstract submission will open soon. For more information on the event please visit the conference website https://nest-simulator.org/conference We are looking forward to seeing you in June! Hans Ekkehard Plesser on behalf of the conference organizing committee -- Prof. Dr. Hans Ekkehard Plesser Research Committee Chair, Faculty of Science and Technology Head, Department of Data Science Department of Data Science Faculty of Science and Technology Norwegian University of Life Sciences PO Box 5003, 1432 Aas, Norway Phone +47 6723 1560 Email hans.ekkehard.plesser(a)nmbu.no<mailto:hans.ekkehard.plesser@nmbu.no> Home http://arken.nmbu.no/~plesser

Jan. 16, 2025

[Call for Abstract]: Workshop AI and Ethics of Care (5 February 2025, University of Porto)

by steven gouveia

Workshop AI and Ethics of Care 5 February 2025 | Sala de Reuniões 1 Keynote Speakers [Picture] Silvia Dadà is a post-doctoral researcher in Moral Philosophy and Bioethics at the University of Pisa. She is a research member in the PNRR project FAIR (Future Artificial Intelligence Research). Her current areas of interest include ethics of care, bioethics, and ethics of AI. Her most recent book is Etica della vulnerabilità (2022: Morcelliana). [Picture] Ângelo Milhano holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Évora, where he is now a Visiting Professor. He is a researcher in Philosophy of Technology at Praxis: Centre for Philosophy, Politics and Culture. Ângelo has focused his research on digital technologies, focusing on how their various materializations are able to influence human beings and their way of thinking about the world. ________________________________ [Call for Abstracts] The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies raises urgent ethical questions about their development, deployment, and societal impact. While traditional AI ethics often emphasizes fairness, transparency, and accountability, the Ethics of Care introduces a relational perspective, focusing on empathy, compassion, and the interdependence of individuals and communities. This workshop aims to explore how the Ethics of Care can reshape the trajectory of AI development, fostering technologies that prioritize human well-being and relational responsibility. We invite researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and activists to submit abstracts addressing the intersection of AI and the Ethics of Care. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: * Philosophical Foundations: Theoretical explorations of the Ethics of Care as a framework for AI ethics. * Relational AI Design: Designing AI systems that prioritize relationships, empathy, and contextual understanding. * AI in Care Contexts: The role of AI in healthcare, eldercare, and caregiving, with a focus on enhancing rather than replacing human care. * Algorithmic Responsibility: Ensuring AI systems recognize and adapt to the interdependence of social and cultural contexts. * Bias and Marginalization: How the Ethics of Care can address systemic inequities and biases in AI systems. * Governance and Policy: Frameworks for implementing care-centered principles in AI policy and regulation. * Critiques and Challenges: Potential limitations of applying the Ethics of Care to AI and strategies for overcoming them. Submission Guidelines: * Submit a title, an abstract of 300 words (with up to 5 relevant references) and a short bio (50 words) to stevensequeira92(a)hotmail.com<https://ifilosofia.up.pt/activities/stevensequeira92@hotmail.com> * Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and authors will be notified of acceptance or rejection shortly after submission. We encourage early submissions to secure a spot in the workshop program. * There is no registration fee for the workshop. However, accepted authors are responsible for covering their own travel and accommodation expenses. * Deadline: 26 January 2025 * For inquiries, please contact: stevensequeira92(a)hotmail.com<mailto:stevensequeira92@hotmail.com> Organizing Committee Steven S. Gouveia (MLAG/IF/Uni. Porto) CEEC Project by FCT 2022.02527.CEECIND, University of Porto Organization RG Mind, Language and Action Group (MLAG) Instituto de Filosofia da Universidade do Porto - UID/00502 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT)

Jan. 16, 2025

[Meetings] Deadline reminder: 2025 Nengo Summer School Call For Applications

by Michael Furlong

Dear colleagues, Please note that the deadline for application submission to the Nengo Summer School, February 1st, 2025, is approaching. [All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce our 10th annual Nengo summer school on large-scale brain modelling and neuromorphic computing. This two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Summer school participants will be given on-site access to neuromorphic hardware and will learn to run high-level applications using Nengo! More generally, Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun, which includes spiking deep learning, reinforcement learning, adaptive motor control, and cognitive control networks. For a look at the last in-person summer school, check out this short video: https://youtu.be/nFYTqieEnSY We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. ***Application Deadline: February 1, 2025*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, modelling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: * interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware (e.g. BrainDrop, SpiNNaker) * build perceptual, motor, and sophisticated cognitive models using spiking neurons * model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data * use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model  * integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models * interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems * implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models * and much more… Date and Location: June 1st to June 13th, 2025 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summer-school, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Michael Furlong (michael.furlong(a)uwaterloo.ca) The school is partly supported by ABR, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

Jan. 15, 2025

Registration Open: Advanced Course on “Computational Approaches to Neuronal and Behavioral Data Analysis

by Leandro Aguiar

Dear colleagues, Please share and disseminate through your network. On behalf of all the organizers, I am pleased to announce that registration is open for the Advanced Course on “Computational Approaches to Neuronal and Behavioral Data Analysis,” which will be held in a hybrid format: in-person at Braga, Portugal, and online via Zoom, from *April 22 to May 9, 2025*. Please refer to the course website for more information: https://meetings.embo.org/event/25-data-analysis The course will provide in-depth training across five specialized modules: 1. *Fundamentals of Programming and Python* – Covering Python basics, packages like NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib, and advanced exercises such as raster plot mapping. 2. *Behavioral Data Analysis* – Using tools like DeepLabCut for pose estimation and structuring datasets for behavioral insights. 3. *Calcium and Neurotransmitter Signal Analysis* – Focusing on fiber photometry, calcium imaging, and integrating behavioral data. 4. *Electrophysiological Data Analysis* – Exploring spike sorting, neuron clustering, and synchronizing electrophysiological data with behavioral events. 5. *fMRI Data Analysis* – Examining dynamic functional connectivity and group-level comparisons. This hybrid format allows participants worldwide to join either in person or online, making it accessible and flexible. We encourage researchers from Academia and Industry, at all career stages, to register and participate. Early registration is highly recommended due to limited in-person capacity and the hybrid nature of the event. For program details and registration, please visit: https://meetings.embo.org/event/25-data-analysis Thank you for sharing this exciting opportunity with your network. Best regards, Leandro Aguiar Postdoctoral Researcher Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS) School of Medicine, University of Minho

Jan. 15, 2025

Computational Visual Neuroscience Postdoc Position at EPFL in Geneva, Switzerland

by Ryan McNamara

Dear Comp-Neuro, We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a one-year (renewable) project within the MIP:Lab of the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) located at the Campus Biotech in Geneva, Switzerland. The project is at the interface between an industrial partner and the MIP:Lab headed by Prof. Dimitri Van De Ville. Start date is as soon as possible (date may be negotiable) and will last for approximately 15 months (renewable). At the end of the postdoc, there will be an opportunity to join the company as an employee. The post-doctoral researcher will join a team of academic and industrial group members to work on new computational modeling frameworks for rapidly time-varying functional networks in late sensory and non-sensory cortex in the context of biofeedback-influenced video viewing. A mix of theoretical, algorithmic, and empirical work is expected, in collaboration with an industrial partner in the healthcare technology/AI field providing behavioral and neural (streaming M/EEG) data. Some first-hand behavioral and neural data (M/EEG) is also expected to be acquired in the M/EEG Platform at the Campus Biotech. We are interested in maintaining the rich diversity in our work teams and encourage applications from all interested candidates. The salary range at EPFL is competitive and the quality of living in Switzerland is outstanding. Qualifications The ideal candidate will have a PhD, strong quantitative, signal processing, and machine learning skills, data analytic expertise (Python and Matlab), and expertise in visual neuroscience. Experience with neuroimaging is required, preferably with human subjects. The candidate should be creative, enjoy problem solving, and be prepared to collaborate within a larger team with diverse expertise. Experience in commercial biomedical development is also preferred. Appropriate background/training includes cognitive, computational, or systems neuroscience, psychology, and visual psychophysics. Application Instructions Please send your motivation letter, CV with publication list, one-page personal research statement, and contact information of three referees, to ryan.mcnamara(a)dandelion.science with subject line “[CV-POSTDOC] <Your Name>”.

Jan. 15, 2025

Transatlantic Behavioural Neuroscience Summer School, Argentina, Aug 11-22 2025, Deadline: Feb 25th

by Mateusz Kostecki

Hello! We are happy to announce the fourth edition of our Transatlantic Behavioural Neuroscience School! It will be held Aug 11-22 in Buenos Aires, Argentina,. During our school you will learn how to deliver stimuli or modify the environment in which the animal is embedded with Arduino-based devices and Bonsai code; you will design and 3D-print cases and holders for your instruments. And then you will apply cutting-edge tools (like Deeplabcut or CEBRA) – to extract as much information as possible from your data. But that’s not everything. At TBNS you will listen to fascinating lectures and interact with speakers, who explored bold ideas and made their unique career paths. You will look at what behavior is through many lenses. Most importantly though, you will meet people with similar interests and goals. And you may become a part of our global Open Lab community, and help us to spread the knowledge further! More information and the application form can be found here - https://nenckiopenlab.org/tbns2025/. The deadline for application is Feb 25th, the fee is EUR 1500 but we have secured funding for fee waivers and travel grants if needed. With best wishes, TBNS Team -- --- Mateusz Kostecki PhD Student Knapska Laboratory Nencki Institute 02-093 Warsaw, Pasteura 3, Poland https://twitter.com/mtkostecki https://evolvingbehavior.blog/

Jan. 14, 2025

Research Fellow position in UCL London (United Kingdom):

by Tua Piehl

*Research Fellow position in UCL Institute of Neurology: Electrophysiology and Computational Modelling of Neurological Diseases* We are seeking a Research Fellow to join our team and use Neuropixels technology in vivo to assess the excitability of brain regions in models of neurological diseases. This project is a key part of a broader research program focused on optimising gene therapy for neurological disorders, with the goal of clinical translation. The position is based at the Lignani Lab <https://www.lignanilab.com/>, within the UCL <https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ion/research/research-departments/department-clinical…>Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy <https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ion/research/research-departments/department-clinical…> . The post is available from 01 February 2025 and is part of an Advanced Research + Invention Agency-funded project, subject to contract negotiations, until 31 January 2027 in the first instance. You will have a PhD or equivalent in Neuroscience (or a related discipline) as well as experience with experimental rodent models of neurological diseases (e.g., epilepsy, dementia, or schizophrenia) and proficiency in electrophysiology, stereotaxic surgery, and electrode implantation. Experience in programming (preferably in MATLAB or Python) and expertise working with rodents, including behavioural assessment and colony management in disease models, is also required for the role. *Application deadline is January 19th, 2025.* *Please apply here:* https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/search-ucl-jobs/details?jobId=30716&jobTi… If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute HR Team, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, 23 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG (email: ion.hradmin(a)ucl.ac.uk) For informal enquiries about the role please contact Professor Gabriele Lignani (email: g.lignani(a)ucl.ac.uk) Best wishes, *Tua Piehl* *Research Administrative Assistant* *Lignani Lab* University College London | Queen Square Institute of Neurology | Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy | Queen Square House | London UK, WC1N 3BG | t.piehl(a)ucl.ac.uk | www.lignanilab.com <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lignan…> | twitter: *@LignaniLab_UCL <https://twitter.com/LignaniLab_UCL>*

Jan. 13, 2025

Postdoc positions in Cognitive Neuroscience, Computational Psychiatry and Developmental Psychology, University of Tuebingen, Germany

by Susan Fischer

**Apologies for cross-posting** Dear colleagues, The "Developmental Computational Psychiatry" lab and the W3 professorship "Computational Psychiatry" led by Tobias Hauser at the University of Tübingen (Germany) is currently hiring new postdocs. The focus of the lab is to better understand the computational and neural mechanisms underlying decision making and learning, and how these processes go awry in patients with mental illnesses. The successful candidates will have the chance to work in a highly dynamic and inspiring environment and to collaborate closely with Prof Peter Dayan and the Max-Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics. Concretely, we are looking for the following candidates: * Postdoc with experimental & neuroimaging (MEG / MRI) background More information about the positions can be found here: https://devcompsy.org/join-the-lab/ Interested candidates are encouraged to reach out to Tobias Hauser directly to informally discuss the positions. Best regards, Susan. ************************************************ Susan Fischer Coordinator Alexander von Humboldt Professorship Prof Peter Dayan & W3-Professorship ‘Computational Psychiatry’, Prof Tobias Hauser Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen Equal Opportunities Officer Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics Max-Planck-Ring 8 72076 Tübingen Germany ************************************************

Jan. 13, 2025

Free online lecture series 3rd February to 8th February , 2025 - "Data Science Fundamental and Ethical Practices."

by PRANAV NERURKAR

Dear Sir/Madam 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 Bhartiya Vidhya Bhavan's Sardar Patel Institute of Technology ,Mumbai. We are delighted to inform you that the Department of Computer Science and Engineering is organizing an AICTE Training and Learning (ATAL) Academy -sponsored Online 6-days FDP on "Data Science Fundamental and Ethical Practices." [ No Registration Fees ] 𝐅𝐃𝐏 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 6 days Date :3rd February to 8th February , 2025 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞: 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm Mode: Online 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞: Faculty members, research scholars, PG Students from AICTE recognized Engineering institutions, Universities and industry professionals... 𝐍𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐞. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐃𝐏 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐄 𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰: https://lnkd.in/dxjqcycE 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Online Renowned industrialists and Academicians will conduct the sessions in the domain of fundamentals of Data Science ,Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning and ethical practices related to it 𝑺𝒐 𝑯𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝒖𝒑!!!! 𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒔 𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆. 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Link: - https://lnkd.in/dYmGF-Td After you click this link, please log in the with your username and password After successful login...Please click on Workshops After clicking on the Workshop link, On the dashboard : Select the state as Maharashtra Select Month as February Select Thrust area as Engineering and Management After doing this you can apply for the Faculty Development "Data Science Fundamentals and Ethical Practices. " Just click on + button to apply for 𝐅𝐃𝐏 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫: 1730893479 𝐅𝐃𝐏 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬: Dr. D R Kalbande, Prof.Harshil Kanakia, Contact Person Prof.Harshil Kanakia, Assistant professor Email: harshilkanakia(a)spit.ac.in Mobile No. : 9819740847 Prof. Nikita Mishra, Assistant Professor Email ID: nikita.mishra(a)spit.ac.in Mobile No.9960245133 Prof. Swati Vyas, Assistant Professor Email ID: swati.vyas(a)spit.ac.in Mobile No.9460191074 Warm and Kind regards, *Pranav A. NERURKAR* Specialist - AI & Data science UTKARSH MINDS +91 961-999-77-97 pranav.nerurkar@ <amandine.deplantes(a)igonogo.io>utkarshminds.com www.utkarshminds.com Nirmala Sadan, Jaya Nagar, Kasturba cross road no. 1, Mumbai - 400066

Jan. 13, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Jonathan Pillow, University of Princeton

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Jonathan Pillow University of Princeton on the topic of *New methods for tracking and control of dynamic animal behavior during learning* The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * The dynamics of learning in natural and artificial environments is a problem of great interest to both neuroscientists and artificial intelligence experts. However, standard analyses of animal training data either treat behavior as fixed, or track only coarse performance statistics (e.g., accuracy and bias), providing limited insight into the dynamic evolution of behavioral strategies over the course of learning. To overcome these limitations, we propose a dynamic psychophysical model that efficiently tracks trial-to-trial changes in behavior over the course of training. In this talk, I will describe recent work based on a dynamic logistic regression model that captures the time-varying dependencies of behavior on stimuli and other task covariates, which we applied to mouse training data from the International Brain Lab (IBL). Secondly, I will discuss efforts to infer animal learning rules from time-varying behavior in order to characterize how they adjust their policy in response to reward. Finally, I will describe recent work on adaptive optimal training, which combines ideas from reinforcement learning and adaptive experimental design to formulate methods for inferring animal learning rules from behavior, and using these rules to speed up animal training. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Jan. 12, 2025

EMBO Course on Astrocyte Modeling (Padua, IT, April 10-11, 2025)

by De Pitta, Maurizio

Dear colleagues, Please share and disseminate through your network. On behalf of all the organizers, I want to remind you that registration continues to be open for the EMBO Course on “Quantifying Astrocyte Physiology by Models from Genome to Circuits,” which will be held at the University of Padua in Padua, Italy, from April 10 to 11, 2025. Please refer to the course website for further information: https://sites.google.com/view/embo-satellite-meeting/home The course is a Satellite Event of the EMBO Meeting on “Astrocytes: From Molecules to Systems,” which will follow in nearby Venice a couple of days later (April 14–18, 2025). The EMBO Course “Quantifying Astrocyte Physiology by Models from Genome to Circuits” is a two-day intensive course aimed at teaching essential modeling approaches to harness astrocyte biology revolving around four main themes such as (i) astrocyte genomics, (ii) intracellular calcium signaling, (iii) tripartite synapses, (iv) neuron-astrocyte networks. The course is open to researchers of any level in the Academia and Industry. Registration Policy Attendance to the Course is limited to 50 participants due to limited seating. Registrants that are also planning to attend the EMBO Workshop “Astrocytes: From Molecules to Systems” should register through this latter’s website: https://meetings.embo.org/event/25-astrocytes People who will not be selected to attend the EMBO Workshop “Astrocytes: From Molecules to Systems” can still opt to attend the course by registering through the course website: https://sites.google.com/view/embo-satellite-meeting/home Thank you for considering the matter. Maurizio De Pitta ----- Maurizio DE PITTA Principal Investigator Neuron-Glia Interactions Lab (NGILab) Krembil Research Institute, 4KD-509 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, CA +1.416.603.5800 ext. 3290 This e-mail may contain confidential and/or privileged information for the sole use of the intended recipient. Any review or distribution by anyone other than the person for whom it was originally intended is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please contact the sender and delete all copies. Opinions, conclusions or other information contained in this e-mail may not be that of the organization. If you feel you have received an email from UHN of a commercial nature and would like to be removed from the sender's mailing list please do one of the following: (1) Follow any unsubscribe process the sender has included in their email (2) Where no unsubscribe process has been included, reply to the sender and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line. If you require additional information please go to our UHN Newsletters and Mailing Lists page. Please note that we are unable to automatically unsubscribe individuals from all UHN mailing lists. Patient Consent for Email: UHN patients may provide their consent to communicate with UHN about their care using email. All electronic communication carries some risk. Please visit the UHN website and search “Using email to Communicate with Your UHN Health Care Team” to learn about the risks of electronic communication and how to protect your privacy. You may withdraw your consent to receive emails from UHN at any time. Please contact your care provider, if you do not wish to receive emails from UHN.

Jan. 10, 2025

Approaching Deadline for the EMBO Astrocyte Conference (Venice IT, April 14-18, 2025)

by De Pitta, Maurizio

Dear colleagues, As the deadline for registrations approaches—and if you have not already registered—we kindly remind you to register for the very first EMBO Workshop on "Astrocytes: From Molecules to Systems" that will take place April 14-18, 2025 on the exclusive premises of the Venice International University on San Servolo Island. For your convenience, please find the link here: https://meetings.embo.org/event/25-astrocytes Registrations close January 14, 2025. We would also like to ask for your support by helping us spread the word to your students and colleagues via social media (X/Twitter/Bluesky, #EMBOastrocytes) and University/Institute official channels. I remain available for any questions. On behalf of the Organizing Committee, Sincerely, Maurizio De Pitta ----- Maurizio DE PITTA Principal Investigator Neuron-Glia Interactions Lab (NGILab) Krembil Research Institute, 4KD-509 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, CA +1.416.603.5800 ext. 3290 This e-mail may contain confidential and/or privileged information for the sole use of the intended recipient. Any review or distribution by anyone other than the person for whom it was originally intended is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please contact the sender and delete all copies. Opinions, conclusions or other information contained in this e-mail may not be that of the organization. If you feel you have received an email from UHN of a commercial nature and would like to be removed from the sender's mailing list please do one of the following: (1) Follow any unsubscribe process the sender has included in their email (2) Where no unsubscribe process has been included, reply to the sender and type "unsubscribe" in the subject line. If you require additional information please go to our UHN Newsletters and Mailing Lists page. Please note that we are unable to automatically unsubscribe individuals from all UHN mailing lists. Patient Consent for Email: UHN patients may provide their consent to communicate with UHN about their care using email. All electronic communication carries some risk. Please visit the UHN website and search “Using email to Communicate with Your UHN Health Care Team” to learn about the risks of electronic communication and how to protect your privacy. You may withdraw your consent to receive emails from UHN at any time. Please contact your care provider, if you do not wish to receive emails from UHN.

Jan. 10, 2025

Info Day - International Master & PhD in Computational Neuroscience @ BCCN Berlin - 29.01.25

by Graduate Programs

Dear Computational Neuroscientists, Please share the following event information with anyone who may be interested. We at the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN) Berlin will hold a hybrid "Info Day" to discuss our International Master & Doctoral Programs in Computational Neuroscience on Wednesday, January 29th, at 3pm (CET). Attendees are welcome to join in person at the BCCN Berlin or virtually via Zoom. The event will consist of talks by: * Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer (head of the programs) * Lisa Velenosi (teaching coordinator) * Current master and doctoral students Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet & discuss with current students and ask any questions or concerns that they may have. See our website <https://www.bccn-berlin.de/events-list/information-day-2025-international-g…> for a more detailed schedule and registration link. Best regards and happy new year, Lisa Velenosi -- Dr.Lisa Velenosi Teaching Coordinator of the SFB1315 & BCCN Berlin Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Philippstraße 13, Haus 6; 10115 Berlin; Germany Tel: +49 (0)30 2093 6773 Tuesdays - Fridays; 9:00 - 15:00

Jan. 10, 2025

Workshop on Markerless Animal Tracking: 21 Feb, Berlin

by Davidson, Jacob

Workshop on Markerless Animal Tracking February 21, 2025, 9:00 – 17:00 Harnack Haus, Berlin Description: Tracking animals in the lab or the field is a rapidly evolving discipline. With the rise of advanced machine learning algorithms, new tracking methods are emerging almost daily. But how do you select the best algorithm for your needs? Can you achieve high-quality tracking without tagging or marking animals? Is it possible to track multiple animals simultaneously—and how can this be done in practice? This one-day workshop provides hands-on experience with state-of-the-art markerless tracking techniques and their applications in studying animal behavior. Participants will gain practical insights into selecting the right methods for their research, along with guidance on effectively implementing these tools and techniques Lecturers: Angela Albi (MPI-AB) Tristan Walter (MPI-AB) Jacob Davidson (Ecodylic Science) Ahmed El Hady (Ecodylic Science) Who should attend?: Researchers and professionals in biology, neuroscience, psychology, and related fields. Registration Details: Fees: (lunch and coffee included at Harnack Haus) Academic: 80€ Industry: 200€ How to Register: Fill out the form at https://www.ecodylicscience.com/education/ and tell us a bit about why you’re interested in this workshop. We’ll review applications as they come in. Once accepted, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, including payment instructions. Registration deadline: January 24, 2025 -- If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Best, Jacob Jacob Davidson | Ecodylic Science<https://www.ecodylicscience.com> | FU Berlin BioRobotics & MPI-Animal Behavior http://jacobdavidson.com

Jan. 10, 2025

[Meetings] CRNS Talk Series - Live Talk by Prof. Yukie Nagai - University of Tokyo - Japan

by Amir Aly

Dear All * *Apologies for cross-posting** The* Center for Robotics and Neural Systems* (CRNS) is pleased to announce the talk of *Prof. Yukie Nagai* from the University of Tokyo - Japan on Wednesday, *January 22nd *from *11:00 AM* to *12:30 PM* (*London time*) over *Zoom*. *Thank you for forwarding the invitation to any of your colleagues who might be interested*. >> *Events*: The CRNS talk series will cover a wide range of topics including Social and Cognitive Robotics, Computational Neuroscience, Developmental Psychology, Computational Linguistics, Cognitive Vision, AI and Machine Learning, and healthcare. More details are available here: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/robotics-neural-systems/whats-on <https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.plymo…> >> *Link for the next event (**No Registration is Required**)*: Join Zoom Meeting *https://plymouth.zoom.us/j/98403580358?pwd=LtPTIjfFa4aSfAQ1XxpHs6ZjqRPYTv.1&from=addon <https://plymouth.zoom.us/j/98403580358?pwd=LtPTIjfFa4aSfAQ1XxpHs6ZjqRPYTv.1…>* >> *Title of the talk: **Embodied Predictive Processing: New Horizons in Cognitive Developmental Robotics* *Abstract*: Cognitive developmental robotics seeks to uncover the mechanisms of human cognitive development by replicating these processes in robots. Since 2020, the field has made significant progress, demonstrating human-like cognitive behaviors in robots. One compelling advancement is the growing focus on predictive processing, a neuroscience theory posited as a unified principle of the brain. This theory offers a clear framework for understanding perception and action through minimizing prediction errors. Our research extends this concept to embodied predictive processing, explaining both continuity and diversity in cognitive development. We propose that the brain minimizes prediction errors through multimodal sensorimotor experiences in a social environment, with a robot's physical embodiment playing a crucial role. In this talk, I will highlight our latest findings, showcasing predictive processing as a unified theory of cognitive development and its implications for the future of cognitive developmental robotics. >> If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me, Regards -------------------------------------------- *Dr. Amir Aly*, PhD, FHEA, SIEEE Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Programme Manager of Artificial Intelligence UK and Ireland IEEE RAS Chapter Vice Chair Centre for Robotics and Neural Systems (CRNS) School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics Room A307 Portland Square, Drake Circus, PL4 8AA University of Plymouth, UK

Jan. 8, 2025

PhD scholarship in Neuromusculoskeletal Modelling for Parkinson’s Disease at Technical University of Denmark

by stolu＠dtu.dk

JOB DESCRIPTION https://efzu.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1… Do you have a passion for computational neuroscience, neurorobotics, or bioengineering? If you are looking to establish your career as a scientist and want to work on cutting-edge biomedical research, this PhD scholarship might be the perfect opportunity for you. We offer a position where you will explore the frontiers of neuromusculoskeletal system modelling in collaboration with KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Your research will focus on the interaction between brain and body in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), with the goal of developing innovative tools for diagnosis and neurorehabilitation. Responsibilities and qualifications In this PhD project, you will study the brain-body interaction in PD by combining neural models with a musculoskeletal digital twin of rodent locomotion. You will work with cutting-edge technologies at DTU and KTH, developing computational models of the central nervous system and exploring how neural dynamics translate to motor control in PD. Your primary tasks will include: Developing a musculoskeletal digital twin for rodents and integrating it with brain models. Simulating healthy and PD motor control to investigate neural dynamics and dysfunctions. Collaborating with both DTU and KTH for joint supervision and coordinated research tasks. Conducting a research stay at KTH to test and evaluate techniques in collaboration with KTH’s Computational Brain Science group. Publishing research results in high-impact international journals. Your overall focus will be to strengthen the department’s competencies within machine learning, musculoskeletal modeling and simulation, and computational neuroscience. You will work with a team of researchers and with both academic and industrial partners in Denmark as well as abroad. Qualifications required: You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree. You must hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a similar field. Strong background in computational neuroscience, machine learning, musculoskeletal modeling, and robotics. Proven experience with data science, machine learning, or computational techniques in a cross-disciplinary environment. Excellent written and spoken English skills. A strong interest in working in a cross-disciplinary environment and excellent collaboration skills, Experience in the fields of robot programming, computer vision, mathematical modeling, machine learning, data science, and/or computational neuroscience is beneficial. The candidate should be prepared for a stay at KTH for several months. Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education. Assessment The assessment of applicants will be made by Associate Professor Silvia Tolu (DTU Electro) and Associate Professor Arvind Kumar (KTH). We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. Salary and appointment terms The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. You can read more about career paths at DTU here. Further information For more information, you can contact Associate Professor Silvia Tolu (stolu(a)dtu.dk) Further details about the department can be found at DTU Electro. If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 20 January 2025 (23:59 Danish time). Interviews will be held on an ongoing basis. Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include: A letter motivating the application (cover letter) Curriculum vitae Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale A project proposal for the position (max 2 pages). Proposals can include a research statement, a short plan related to the position, a plan for publications and research risk management. Optional: A list of scientific and technical publications, awards, and certifications that are relevant to the vacancy. Up to 3 relevant publications in related scientific fields. Up to 3 reference letters. You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As the position involves research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, among other things, open-source background checks will be conducted on qualified candidates for the position. Technology for people DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark

Jan. 8, 2025

Submit Your Workshop Proposal for FRCCS 2025 by January 12, 2024

by Hocine Cherifi

*Dear Colleagues,* Don’t miss the chance to shape the discussions at *FRCCS 2025* by proposing a workshop! The deadline for submissions is quickly approaching: *January 12, 2024* Workshops are a cornerstone of FRCCS, providing opportunities to: - ✅ Explore cutting-edge topics in complexity science. - ✅ Engage participants through discussions, panels, and demos. - ✅ Foster collaboration and shape the future of the field. *Submit Your Proposal Today for a **full- or half-day workshop* and join us in Bordeaux, France! 🔗 Submission Portal <https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/FRCCS2025/> 🌐 More Info <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/workshops-proposals/> We look forward to your innovative ideas and contributions! Warm regards, *The FRCCS 2025 Organizing Team* 🌐 Conference Website <https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/>

Jan. 8, 2025

GEM 2025 - Registration is open

by Vinita Samarasinghe

Registration for GEM 2025 <https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025> has opened. The deadline for registration is 30.04.25. There is limited availability for our early career researcher events and places will be assigned on a first come first served basis. The DFG-funded research consortium “FOR 2812 – Constructing scenarios of the past” is proud to announce a *call for abstracts* for its biennial conference “/Generative Episodic Memory: Interdisciplinary persepectives from neuroscience, psychology and philosophy/” *GEM 202**5.* It will be held *in person* at the Ruhr University Bochum, Germany from 2^nd to 4^th June, 2025. For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025. Episodic memories are widely regarded as memories of personally experienced events. Early concepts about episodic memory were based on the storage model, according to which experiential content is preserved in memory and later retrieved. However, overwhelming empirical evidence suggests that the content of episodic memory is – at least to a certain degree – constructed in the act of remembering. Even though very few contemporary researchers would oppose this view of episodic memory as a generative process, it has not become the standard paradigm of empirical memory research. This is particularly true for studies of the neural correlates of episodic memory. Further hindering progress are large conceptual differences regarding episodic memory across different fields, such as neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology. This interdisciplinary conference therefore aims to bring together researchers from all relevant fields to advance the state of the art in the research on generative episodic memory. *Keynote speakers: * Ali Boyle (LSE); Neil Burgess (UCL); Iris Engelhard (U. Utrecht); Johannes Mahr (York U.); Jeremy Manning (Dartmouth) *Funding for early career researchers is available *(visit our ECR page <https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025/early_career_researcher_programs> for more details). *Abstract* submission deadline: 15.03.2025 Submission guidelines: Abstracts must be submitted in English and be no longer than 500 words. Submitted work must be original and unpublished and submitted electronically at https://www.conftool.net/gem202 <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>5/ <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>. Types of submissions: * Talk * Symposium: Must comprise 3 talks and be interdisciplinary in nature, i.e., talks must cover at least two of the following disciplines: computational neuroscience, philosophy, psychology, neuroscience. * Poster /*For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de or contact Vinita Samarasinghe at for2812(a)rub.de */ Follow us on bluesky @for2812.bsky.social/* */ <https://bsky.app/for2812.bsky.social> Kind regards, Vinita -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Jan. 8, 2025

NEURON Spring course: March 9 - 14

by McDougal, Robert

The 2025 NEURON Spring Course will be held at the Tempe campus of Arizona State University from Sunday, March 9, through Friday, March 14, 2025. This is basically the NEURON Summer Course but happening at a different time of the year. It will provide a thorough introduction to computational modeling of neurons and networks with NEURON, and is suitable for individuals at all levels of expertise. The registration deadline is Friday, February 28, 2025. No applications will be accepted after that date, and there will be no on-site registration. Space is limited, and applications will be considered in the order received. For more information and the on-line application form, see: The 2025 NEURON Spring Course<https://www.neuron.yale.edu/phpBB/viewtopic.php?p=20497>

Jan. 7, 2025

4-year funded PhD position at the Action Prediction Lab (Patric Bach, School of Psychology, University of Aberdeen, Scotland)

by Moritz Wurm

We are seeking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the Action Prediction Lab <https://www.actionprediction.org/> at the School of Psychology, University of Aberdeen, Scotland. The position is for 4 years and includes a collaboration with the Action Recognition and Concepts Lab <https://sites.google.com/site/moritzfwurm> at CIMeC, University of Trento, Italy. The deadline is January 17, 2025 (please note that two references need to be added to the application by the deadline). Please apply here <https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/eastbio-neurocognitive-mechanisms-of-…>. Project description: Humans are able to perspective-take and visualise how a scene looks from other locations in space and from the perspective of people in these locations. However, the cognitive and brain mechanisms that underpin this fundamental ability are unclear. Here, we will use model-based univariate and multivariate EEG and fMRI decoding techniques to reveal how people take perspectives different from their own.

Jan. 7, 2025

[jobs] Postdoc/PhD positions in Toulouse (France): Deep learning models of the Global Workspace

by Rufin VanRullen

Multiple postdoctoral and PhD positions are available in an ERC-funded project exploring deep-learning implementations of the Global Workspace theory. We are seeking highly motivated and dedicated students and post-docs to join our group in Toulouse, France in the Fall of 2025. Successful candidates will have formal training in AI, Computer Science or related fields (e.g. computational neuroscience), and a keen interest in cognitive neuroscience. Our ERC Advanced Grant "GLoW" (2023-2028) aims to take inspiration from neuroscience and cognitive theories to build deep neural network models of cognition, capable of integrating or "grounding" information across sensory and linguistic modalities, and of displaying flexible cognitive behavior. We will also use advanced AI models to improve the decoding and understanding of brain activity. Details on the ideas that will be developed in the project can be found in this Opinion paper <https://www.cell.com/trends/neurosciences/fulltext/S0166-2236(21)00077-1>. The project is headed by Rufin VanRullen (CNRS, Toulouse, France), with external advisors Ryota Kanai (Araya, Tokyo, Japan) and Murray Shanahan (ICL/Deepmind, London, UK). Our lab <https://rufinv.github.io/> is part of the CerCo Institute <https://cerco.cnrs.fr/en> as well as the Artificial and Natural Intelligence Toulouse Institute (ANITI) <https://aniti.univ-toulouse.fr/en/>. Our team has many opportunities to collaborate with neuroscientists, computer scientists, linguists, roboticists etc. We have direct access to fMRI recording facilities and to in-house (GPU) computing clusters as well as research-dedicated supercomputers. Typical appointments for post-docs are for 2 years (renewable for a 3rd or 4th year), and 3-years for PhD. The beginning post-doc salary is 2,700 Euros/month (net), and can reach 3,300 Euros/month (net) for more experienced post-docs. The PhD stipend is 2,000 Euros/month (net). We expect to hire several candidates by the Fall of 2025, but will continue to recruit exceptional applicants in the foreseeable future. To apply, please send a CV and a letter <mailto:rufin.vanrullen@cnrs.fr> explaining your research interests and motivations to: rufin.vanrullen [at] cnrs.fr Any questions should also be directed to the same address. Applications received before April 1st, 2025 will be given full consideration, but we will continue to accept outstanding applications after this date. --

Jan. 7, 2025

Call for Participation: ACDL 2025, 8th Advanced Course on Data Science & Machine Learning - From Deep Learning to Generative AI | June 9-13 | Riva del Sole Resort & SPA - Italy -> *Early Registration: by 23 February*

by ICAS Organizing Committee

* Apologies for multiple copies. Please forward to anybody who might be interested, thanks * #ACDL2025, An Interdisciplinary Course: From Deep Learning to Generative AI ACDL 2025 is a full-immersion 5-day course in Tuscany on cutting-edge advances in AI, Deep Learning, LLMs, Data Sc. & Generative AI with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. If you want to learn Transformers, Diffusion Models, Large language models, Vision - Large-scale vision models, Vision and language, Agentic AI, Multimodal Foundation Models, NLP, Generative AI and much more then take part in ACDL 2025! ;) Riva del Sole Resort & SPA - Tuscany, Italy, June 9-13, 2025 https://acdl2025.icas.events acdl(a)icas.cc *EARLY REGISTRATION: by February 23 (AoE)* https://acdl2025.icas.events/registration/ Oral Presentation Submission Deadline: by February 23 (AoE) LECTURERS: https://acdl2025.icas.events/lecturers/ Each Lecturer will hold up to four lectures on one or more research topics. Sanjeev Arora, Princeton University & Institute for Advanced Study, USA Antoine Bosselut, EPFL, Switzerland Sander Dieleman, Google DeepMind London, UK Caglar Gulcehre, EPFL, Switzerland Tatsu Hashimoto, Stanford University & Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, USA Thomas Hofmann, ETH Zurich, Switzerland Subbarao Kambhampati, Arizona State University, USA Joel Z. Leibo, Google DeepMind London & The Alan Turing Institute, UK Lei Li, Language Technology Institute - Carnegie Mellon University, USA Panos Pardalos, University of Florida, USA Bryan Perozzi, Google Research, New York, USA Raniero Romagnoli, Almawave, Italy Liubov Tupikina, Bell Labs Paris, France More Lecturers TBA Lecturers: https://acdl2025.icas.events/lecturers/ Lectures: https://acdl2025.icas.events/lectures/ ACDL Schedule: https://acdl2025.icas.events/program/ https://acdl2025.icas.events/wp-content/uploads/sites/30/2024/12/ACDL-2025-… PAST LECTURERS: https://acdl2025.icas.events/past-lecturers/ VENUE: https://acdl2025.icas.events/venue/ Riva del Sole Resort & SPA Località Riva del Sole‚ Castiglione della Pescaia (Grosseto) CAP 58043‚ Tuscany‚ Italy p: +39-0564-928111 e: booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it w: https://www.rivadelsole.it/en/ PAST EDITIONS: https://acdl2025.icas.events/past-editions/ REGISTRATION: https://acdl2025.icas.events/registration/ CERTIFICATE & 8 ECTS: The 8th Advanced Course on Data Science & Machine Learning – ACDL 2025 is a full-immersion five-day Course at the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA (Castiglione della Pescaia – Grosseto – Tuscany, Italy) on cutting-edge advances in Deep Learning, Data Science and Generative AI with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. The Course provides a stimulating environment for PhD students, Post-Docs, junior academics (only up to assistant professors), early career researchers, and industry leaders (and highly motivated, promising and brilliant Master students / BSc students). Participants will also have the chance to present their results with talks, and to interact with their colleagues, in a convivial, professional and productive environment. PhD students, PostDocs, Industry Practitioners and Junior Academics (only up to assistant professors) will be typical profiles of the ACDL attendants. The Course will involve a total of 36–40 hours of lectures, according to the academic system the final achievement will be equivalent to 8 ECTS points for the PhD Students (and some strongly motivated Master Student – BSc Student) attending the Course. Please check the FAQ: https://acdl2025.icas.events/faq/ Language: English. To participate in the ACDL 2025, all attendants must (1/2) register for the course (by February 23, 2025) and (2/2) book accommodation at the course venue, “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA” (by April 23, 2025); all attendants must stay at the “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA”. Booking accommodation at the Riva del Sole must be made exclusively using the accommodation form attached to the registration confirmation email. No other methods must be used (if you use other booking methods the hotel will cancel the reservation). Finally, it is not possible to extend the stay, the special accommodation rates are valid only for the period of the course, no exceptions will be made. To contact the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA (the course venue) use the following email: booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it Once accommodation has been booked at “Riva del Sole Resort & SPA“, the participant must send this information (including the Booking Number) to the ACDL organizing committee (acdl(a)icas.cc) ACDL is a residential course, so all lecturers and participants must reside in the same Hotel (Riva del Sole Resort & SPA). No exceptions are made. For privacy reasons, the Hotel cannot match people. If you have someone to share the apartment with (or a double room in Hotel), please send to the Hotel ( booking.events(a)rivadelsole.it ) the name, surname and email address. Otherwise the solution is to book a hotel room in single use. Please note that only ACDL registered participants can book a room (in hotel or apartment) at the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA with the accommodation form attached in the registration email and with the ACDL Discounted Rates. The Booking Office of the Riva del Sole Resort & SPA will verify the names of the participants and the corresponding registration number to confirm the booking. Anyone interested in participating in ACDL 2025 should register as soon as possible. See you in Riva del Sole in June! ACDL 2025 Directors. ACDL 2025 Scientific & Organizing Committees. https://acdl2025.icas.events acdl(a)icas.cc Obviously, this is only a Call for Participation, to have complete and updated information we recommend you access the relevant website: https://acdl2025.icas.events * Apologies for multiple copies. Please forward to anybody who might be interested, thanks *

Jan. 7, 2025

The Algonauts Project 2025 challenge is now live: How the Human Brain Makes Sense of Multimodal Movies

by The Algonauts Project

Dear Colleagues, We announce the 2025 challenge sponsored by The Algonauts Project <https://algonautsproject.com/>: How the Human Brain Makes Sense of Multimodal Movies. We invite you to join us in this competition to develop the best brain encoding models that are multimodal and that well generalize beyond their training distribution. The challenge is based on data from CNeuroMod <https://www.cneuromod.ca/>, the largest dataset of human brain fMRI responses to multimodal movies. Participants whose models most closely match recorded brain data (top 3) will receive monetary prizes for a total of 17,000 € (1st 9,000 €; 2nd 5,000 €; 3rd 3,000 €), and will be invited to present their winning models at this year’s Cognitive Computational Neuroscience (CCN) <https://2025.ccneuro.org/> conference, in Amsterdam, in August 2025. The challenge is open to all, and provides transparent, directly comparable results through a public leaderboard that is updated automatically after each submission to facilitate rapid model assessment and guide development. Submission deadline: July 13, 2025 Website: https://algonautsproject.com/ Email: algonauts.mit(a)gmail.com Bluesky: @algonautsproject.bsky.social <https://bsky.app/profile/algonautsproject.bsky.social> X: @AlgonautsProj <https://x.com/AlgonautsProj> We look forward to your participation in the challenge! The Algonauts Project Team Algonauts Project 2025 Challenge Team: Alessandro Gifford, Freie Universität Berlin Domenic Bersch, Goethe University Frankfurt Marie St-Laurent, CRIUGM Basile Pinsard, CRIUGM Julie Boyle, Université de Montréal Lune Bellec, Université de Montréal Aude Oliva, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Gemma Roig, Goethe University Frankfurt Radoslaw Cichy, Freie Universität Berlin

Jan. 6, 2025

CFP - 2025 IEEE International Conference on Advanced Robotics and Its Social Impacts (ARSO 2025)

by nagai.yukie＠mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Dear colleagues, The deadline for submitting organized session proposals for ARSO2025 is approaching on January 15th. We look forward to receiving your submissions. --- 2025 IEEE International Conference on Advanced Robotics and Its Social Impacts (ARSO 2025) July 17th-19th, 2025, Osaka, Japan https://ieee-arso.org Advanced robots are expected to enter in promising applications in our future society and bring substantial impacts. The increasing implementation of AI-based components even broaden their fields of application. To ensure that these impacts are positively reflected, today, we need to extend views not only on technical aspects but also on social challenges that we might face, including safety, regulation, ethics, human factors, and philosophy. The topics of ARSO 2025 include, but are not limited to the following: • Human-robot interaction in physical & psychological aspects • Safety standards for advanced robots & autonomous systems • Legal and ethical issues for advanced robots • Impact of robotics on society, e.g. robot business, marketing & economic impact • Robotics for sustainability, climate change or civil aid • Advanced industrial robots for future manufacturing • Healthcare & medical applications • Rehabilitation and transfer robotics • Service & assistance applications • Entertainment & education robotics • Robotics & autonomous driving • Bio-inspired robotics • Soft and wearable robotics Important Dates: Submission of Organized Session Proposal: Jan. 15, 2025 Initial Paper Submission: Feb. 28, 2025 Workshop Proposal Submission: Feb. 28, 2025 Notification of Paper Acceptance: Apr. 28, 2025 Final Paper Submission: May 30, 2025 General Chairs: Minoru Asada, Japan Silvia Rossi, Italy Program Chairs: Kensuke Harada, Japan Emel Demircan, USA Astrid Weiss, Austria Best regards, Yuji Kawai and Yukie Nagai, Publicity Chairs of ARSO2025 — Yukie Nagai, Ph.D. Project Professor, The University of Tokyo nagai.yukie(a)mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp | https://developmental-robotics.jp CREST Cognitive Feelings: https://cognitive-feeling.jp CREST Cognitive Mirroring: https://cognitive-mirroring.org

Jan. 6, 2025

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 11:00 am EST| Dmitry Krotov, IBM Research, Cambridge, USA

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide VVTNS 2025 Opening Lecture & 2024 Nobel prize in Physics celebration You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Dmitry Krotov IBM Research, Cambridge USA on the topic of Dense associative memory and its potential role in brain computation The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Dense Associative Memories (Dense AMs) are energy-based neural networks that share many desirable features of celebrated Hopfield Networks but have superior information storage capabilities. In contrast to conventional Hopfield Networks, which were popular in the 1980s, DenseAMs have a very large memory storage capacity - possibly exponential in the size of the network. This aspect makes them appealing tools for many problems in AI and neurobiology. In this talk I will describe two theories of how DenseAMs might be built in biological “hardware”. According to the first theory, DenseAMs arise as effective theories after integrating out a large number of neuronal degrees of freedom. According to the second theory, astrocytes, a particular type of glia cells, serve as core computational units enabling large memory storage capabilities. This second theory challenges a common point of view in the neuroscience community that astrocytes play the role of only passive house-keeping support structures in the brain. In contrast, it suggests that astrocytes might be actively involved in brain computation and memory storage and retrieval. This story is an illustration of how computational principles originating in physics may provide insights into novel AI architectures and brain computation. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Jan. 5, 2025

Join Us at Pre-COSYNE Brainhack 2025 in Montreal!

by Ryan Ly

Dear Community, We are excited to announce the Pre-COSYNE Brainhack 2025, a hackathon taking place on March 25-26 in Montreal, Canada, just before the COSYNE conference! This event brings together open science enthusiasts to collaborate on projects in computational and systems neuroscience. This year’s suggested theme is Data Pipelines & Reproducibility, but participants are welcome to explore any topic. Key Details: 📅 Dates: March 25-26, 2025 📍 Location: Mila, Montreal, Canada 👥 Participants: Limited to 50 📑 Application Deadline: January 10 Why Attend? - Collaborate with like-minded researchers. - Explore and create open-source tools. - Network across institutions and backgrounds. Learn more and apply here: https://pre-cosyne-brainhack.github.io/hackathon2025/posts/about/ Questions? Please reach out to us directly. We hope to see you in Montreal! Warm regards, The Pre-COSYNE Brainhack Organizers

Jan. 3, 2025

Applications open for Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2025 (OCNC 2025)

by Erik De Schutter

The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 23th through July 10th, 2025 at an seafront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://www.oist.jp/conference/ocnc-2025) only; January 1 - January 31, 2025. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance end of March. Like in preceding years, the 2025 OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international and local experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. For the first time we charge a modest tuition fee of 60,000JPY. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Lecturers: Erik De Schutter (OIST) Kenji Doya (OIST) Tomoki Fukai (OIST) Bernd Kuhn (OIST) Alexander Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Lucy Palmer (University of Melbourne, Australia) Gerald Pao (OIST) Padmini Rangamani (University of California, San Diego, USA) Sam Reiter (OIST) Yu Takagi (National Institute of Informatics) Kazumasa Tanaka (OIST) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Jeff Wickens (OIST)

Jan. 2, 2025

PhD and Postdoc positions [Neuro-AI lab @ Technion] - Stefano Recanatesi

by Stefano Recanatesi

*PhD and PostDoc Positions Available: Neuro-AI Lab at Technion* *About Us: *The Technion Neuro-AI Lab is at the forefront of research into the computational mechanisms of biological and artificial neural networks. Our diverse projects range from developing Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) for both rodents and humans to creating theoretical and computational models of neural activity, and training cutting-edge machine-learning models, including large language models (LLMs). *University Environment: *Join us at Technion, where we offer a world-class research environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary training programs. The lab is part of the Technion AI community (ranked 1st <https://csrankings.org/#/fromyear/2020/toyear/2024/index?ai&vision&mlmining…> in Europe) and the (nobel prize winning <https://www.technion.ac.il/en/2024/10/nobel-prize-winners-mark-20th-anniver…>) Medical faculty. There is a vibrant international community and the Lab strongly encourages international mobility, supporting students in undertaking internships and research collaborations abroad (especially if the political situation requires it). *Lab Homepage:* Technion Neuro-AI Lab <https://sites.google.com/view/technionneuroailab/home> *Project Descriptions & Candidate Profiles:* We are seeking candidates with computational/theoretical or experimental expertise in the following areas: - *Computational Projects:* - Focus: Machine learning, artificial intelligence, and training of various network algorithms. - Relevant Backgrounds: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, etc. - *Theoretical Projects:* - Focus: Developing theoretical and computational predictions for neural experiments. - Relevant Backgrounds: Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, etc. - *Experimental Collaborations:* - Focus: Developing experimental setups with advanced computational tools for BCIs in collaboration with partner labs. - Relevant Backgrounds: Neuroscience, Biology, Medicine, etc., with strong computational skills. *What We Offer:* - A stimulating and supportive research environment. - Access to state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure. - Opportunities for interdisciplinary scientific development. - An international and collaborative team atmosphere. - Comprehensive training in a wide range of scientific skills. - Opportunities to present your research at international conferences and workshops. - Extensive support for career development beyond your Ph.D. *Application Deadline: *We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. Our goal is to fill positions by Spring 2025. *How to Apply:* Please send your CV and full academic transcript directly to Prof. Stefano Recanatesi (stefano(a)technion.ac.il)

Jan. 2, 2025

Call for Papers: Neuromorphic Artificial Intelligence and Its Applications: Retrospective and Prospective

by Vassilis Cutsuridis

Dear colleagues, We would like to invite you to submit an article to the Special Issue "Neuromorphic Artificial Intelligence and Its Applications: Retrospective and Prospective<https://www.mdpi.com/journal/brainsci/special_issues/ID2J799RH5>" organized by the Brain Sciences journal (MDPI). Scope Neuromorphic artificial intelligence (AI), inspired by the structures of brains, constitutes a new shift in the development of AI technology that is able to process vast amounts of information extremely quickly, accurately, and expending far less energy than any AI/DL system. It is unparalleled in its ability to rapidly, and on its own, adapt and learn from changing and unexpected environmental contingencies with very limited resources. Because it utilizes event-based processing in which neurons spike only in response to specific stimuli, at any given time only a small fraction of neurons is active, drastically reducing energy consumption. Thus, neuromorphic AI is ideal for low-power devices such as mobile phones or cameras and, because it utilizes temporal coding as a form of efficient information processing, it is extremely precise and fast allowing visual recognition in the human brain to be achieved in less than 100ms. To learn stably about the world, it uses temporal learning, a type of continual learning that depends on the timing of spikes. Neuromorphic AI is expected to open new roads to computing technologies (software and hardware) and pave the way to true artificial general intelligence. This Special Issue aims to solicit articles that report state-of-the-art approaches to and recent advances in: 1. Novel neuromorphic architectures and models constrained by neurobiological data from multiple levels of detail showing mastery in all faculties, including sensory recognition, learning and memory, decision making, cognitive control, reasoning, language processing, and consciousness; 2. Learning algorithms constrained by the limits of biology and neuromorphic hardware; 3. Neuromorphic hardware (sensors, chips, cameras, etc.) for cognitive systems; 4. Applications of neuromorphic architectures or hardware to cognitive robotics; 5. Application of neuromorphic architectures or hardware to all other aspects of science and technology including healthcare, medical imaging, environment, etc.; This Special Issue will bring together scientists with diverse backgrounds to discuss current concepts and exciting new results in this broad field, cutting across disciplines and focusing on topics that have a high potential to synergize. It is expected that this Special Issue will generate valuable new insights and highlight promising directions of future progress. Research articles, review articles, opinion articles, theory and hypothesis articles, short communications. Manuscript Submission Information Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com<https://www.mdpi.com/> by registering<https://www.mdpi.com/user/register/> and logging in to this website<https://www.mdpi.com/user/login/>. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form<https://susy.mdpi.com/user/manuscripts/upload/?journal=brainsci>. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website. Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors<https://www.mdpi.com/journal/brainsci/instructions> page. Brain Sciences<https://www.mdpi.com/journal/brainsci/> is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI. Please visit the Instructions for Authors<https://www.mdpi.com/journal/brainsci/instructions> page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC)<https://www.mdpi.com/about/apc/> for publication in this open access<https://www.mdpi.com/about/openaccess/> journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service<https://www.mdpi.com/authors/english> prior to publication or during author revisions. Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2025 Best wishes, Vassilis Cutsuridis --- Dr Vassilis Cutsuridis Associate Professor in Computer Science School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, UK, PL4 8AA Email: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk Web: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/staff/vassilis-cutsuridis *** I work strange hours. You may receive emails from me outside of office hours, but please do not feel you need to reply outside of office hours. ________________________________ [https://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, University of Plymouth accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. University of Plymouth 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.

Dec. 31, 2024

Deadline extended School on the Origins of Life, Behavior and Cognition 2025

by Ahmed El Hady

*School on the Origins of Life, Behavior and Cognition* *March 10-21, 2025* *ICTP-SAIFR, São Paulo, Brazil* */Application Deadline:/ January 5, 2025* School on Origins is an interdisciplinary school that tackles the foundational questions concerning the origins of biophysical systems which include but are not limited to : molecular, cellular, neural and behavioral systems. We aim to find principles shared across systems using tools from statistical physics, mathematical analysis and numerical simulations to explore these questions. We have invited researchers that work both on the experimental and theoretical side to cover a variety of biophysical systems and theoretical approaches. The school is aimed at graduate students either at the master’s or PhD level who have a strong quantitative background and a keen interest to pursue interdisciplinary research. We invite students pursuing degrees in physics, computer science, engineering, or mathematics. Those pursuing degrees in biology need to provide evidence of strong and extensive quantitative background in topics such as calculus, dynamical systems and numerical programming. /There is no registration fee and limited funds are available for travel and local expenses./ *Organizers:* * *Ahmed El Hady* (Cluster of Excellence Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Germany.) * *Antonio C. Roque* (USP Ribeirão Preto, Brazil) * *Daniel Y. Takahashi* (UFRN, Brazil) *Lecturers:* * *Suzanne Still* (University of Hawaii at Mānoa, USA) * *Randall Beer* (Indiana University Bloomington, USA) * *Asif Ghazanfar* (Princeton University, USA) * *Don Katz* (Brandeis University, USA) * *Gandhimohan M. Viswanathan* (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte – UFRN, Brazil) * *Bruno Mota* (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) * *Ana Amador* (University of Buenos Aires, Argentina ) All details and application procedure can be found here: https://www.ictp-saifr.org/solbc2025/ All the best, Ahmed El Hady Dr. Ahmed El Hady Research Group Leader Cluster for Advanced Study of Collective Behavior University of Konstanz / Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz Room ZT 907 Postbox 687 Tel.: +49 7531 88-4742

Dec. 30, 2024

Summer school "Cognitive Foundations of Decision-Making" in Ghent, Belgium - CORRECTED LINK

by Rava A. da Silveira

Applications are open for the second edition of the interdisciplinary summer school “*Cognitive Foundations of Decision-Making.”* The summer school is aimed at young scholars interested in decision-making in general, and the neural and cognitive foundations of decision-making in particular, regardless of their background. The summer school will be held from *June 30 to July 4, 2025*, at Ghent University, in Ghent, Belgium. Information, including details on how to apply, can be found at https://www.rislab.net/summer-school-2025. The lecturers will include Rava Azeredo da Silveira (University of Basel and University of Zurich), Ryan Oprea (University of California at Santa Barbara), Elise Payzan LeNestour (UNSW Business School), Arthur Robson (Simon Fraser University), Christian Ruff (University of Zurich). Additional speakers to be announced soon.

Dec. 24, 2024

Modellers Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox

by Stewart Heitmann

Enrolments are now open for the Modellers Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox. This is an online course for researchers who wish to build custom dynamical models in matlab using the Brain Dynamics Toolbox. The course focuses on practical programming techniques for the major classes of differential equations (ordinary, partial, delay, stochastic) in computational neuroscience. Example code is provided in all cases. Study time is 8 hours. Upon completion, students will be able to turn differential equations into working simulations. Course Website https://bdtoolbox.teachable.com/p/modellers-workshop Toolbox Website https://bdtoolbox.org Important Dates Enrolments close 31st Jan 2025. Disclaimer The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and may have been automatically archived by Mimecast Ltd, an innovator in Software as a Service (SaaS) for business. Providing a safer and more useful place for your human generated data. Specializing in; Security, archiving and compliance. To find out more visit the Mimecast website.

Dec. 24, 2024

Summer school "Cognitive Foundations of Decision-Making" in Ghent, Belgium

by Rava A. da Silveira

Applications are open for the second edition of the interdisciplinary summer school “*Cognitive Foundations of Decision-Making.”* The summer school is aimed at young scholars interested in decision-making in general, and the neural and cognitive foundations of decision-making in particular, regardless of their background. The summer school will be held from *June 30 to July 4, 2025*, at Ghent University, in Ghent, Belgium. Information, including details on how to apply, can be found at https://www.rislab.net/summerschool. The lecturers will include Rava Azeredo da Silveira (University of Basel and University of Zurich), Ryan Oprea (University of California at Santa Barbara), Elise Payzan LeNestour (UNSW Business School), Arthur Robson (Simon Fraser University). Additional speakers to be announced soon.

Dec. 23, 2024

Open research positions in the Cluster of Excellence “Bilateral AI”

by Robert Legenstein

We are seeking highly motivated and talented PostDoc and PhD-candidates to join our dynamic research team for combining symbolic and sub-symbolic AI. It offers a unique opportunity to create a new level of artificial intelligence. *Apply now and become part of groundbreaking research in AI!* The successful candidates will conduct research in collaboration with all partner institutes JKU, AAU Klagenfurt, ISTA, TU Graz, TU Vienna, and WU Vienna. Explore the open positions on our website https://www.bilateral-ai.net/jobs/ or directly at one of our six partner-institutions in Austria: At TU Graz: https://www.tugraz.at/institute/igi/institute/open-positions/bilai-jobs At JKU Linz: https://www.jku.at/lit-artificial-intelligence-lab/news-events/open-positio… At TU Vienna: https://www.vcla.at/2024/08/open-positions-cluster-of-excellence/ At WU Vienna: https://www.wu.ac.at/en/dpkm/news-details/detail/open-positions-in-the-clus… At ISTA in Vienna:https://www.ista.ac.at/en/education/postdocs/ At AAU Klagenfurt: https://aics.aau.at/open-positions-cluster-of-excellence/ *Why join us?* * Be part of a growing, dynamic AI research community * Shape the development of Broad AI with focus on ethics, transparency, and real-world applications * Work in an inspiring academic environment at one of Austria’s top universities and institutions -- Dr. Robert Legenstein Univ.-Professor Institute of Theoretical Computer Science Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria http://www.iml.tugraz.at/legi/ WebEx:https://tugraz.webex.com/meet/robert.legenstein ++43/316/873-5824 ----------------------------------

Dec. 20, 2024

Systems Vision Science Summer School & Symposium: Aug. 11-22, 2025 in Tuebingen, Germany

by Pavlovic, Maria

Systems Vision Science Summer School & Symposium: Aug. 11-22, 2025 in Tübingen, Germany -------------------------------- Applications are invited for our third edition of Systems Vision Science (SVS) summer school since 2023, designed for everyone interested in gaining a systems level understanding of biological vision. We plan a coherent, graduate-level, syllabus on the integration of experimental data with theory and models, featuring lectures, guided exercises and discussion sessions. The summer school will end with a Systems Vision Science symposium on frontier topics on August 20-22, with additional invited and contributed presentations and posters. Call for contributions and participations to the symposium will be sent out spring of 2025. All summer school participants are invited to attend, and welcome to submit contributions to the symposium. -------------------------------- Invited lecturers and speakers include: Marco Bertamini, David Brainard, Peter Dayan, Andrea van Doorn, Roland Fleming, Pascal Fries, Robbe Goris, Sheng He, Tadashi Isa, Tomas Knapen, Jan Koenderink, Keith May, Laurence Maloney, Jonathan Victor, Li Zhaoping. -------------------------------- Please find the application procedure here https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/application <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/application/> and apply by March 31, 2025. Check out our webpage https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org to find more out about the program, our invited lecturers/speakers, and other details. Please direct inquiries to svs.summerschool(a)tue.mpg.de <mailto:svs.summerschool@tue.mpg.de> -------------------------------- Organizing team: Li Zhaoping Maria Pavlovic Junhao Liang Vladislav Aksiotis Ali Gholamzadeh Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics University of Tuebingen <http://www.lizhaoping.org> www.lizhaoping.org

Dec. 20, 2024

Career and Entrepreneurial opportunities beyond PhD & postdoc - deadline January 2025

by Farzana, Ali

Dear all, I am pleased to announce our program for researchers looking to spin out their research, as well as our open-source platform for PhDs, postdoc and young PIs looking to explore innovation or forge careers beyond academia. I hope this may be useful to those in the computational neuroscience community looking to get involved in innovation, or those simply exploring! This year we brought together close to 500 scientists and engineers across 12 different hubs in Europe, the UK and the US to talk about innovation, entrepreneurship and unconventional paths. We’ve partnered with 22 leading institutions across the US and Europe including MIT and Oxford. And there's something for everyone: For those exploring new career paths, be it as founders, at startups, or as entrepreneurial group leaders: Join the global community of researchers and industry scientists on our open-source Wilbe Sandbox<https://www.wilbe.com/sandbox>, where you can connect, learn, and explore a variety of career opportunities beyond academia. Because we manually vet every single scientist on the platform we have limited capacity to allow people in. Only 50 spots are left for December, and then 150 will be open in January. For those ready to build their company and avoid expensive mistakes: The Bootcamp for Scientist Founders (BSF) is a high-intensity, practical crash course designed to help you make smart, and fast decisions as you build. Free for selected applicants. Applications are open until January 19, 2025. Learn more and apply at wilbe.<https://www.wilbe.com/bsf>com<https://www.wilbe.com/bsf>/bsf<https://www.wilbe.com/bsf>. Learn more about our work by subscribing<https://www.wilbe.com/subscribe> to get regular content updates on topics from alternative careers in innovation, entrepreneurship for scientists, and accessing funding. Happy Holidays! ----- Ali Farzanehfar Founders' Associate at Wilbe.com<https://www.wilbe.com/>

Dec. 20, 2024

[Meetings] CFP - IEEE Int. Conf. Development and Learning (ICDL) 2025

by Matej Hoffmann

* Dear colleagues, The IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning 2025 will be held September 16–19, 2025 in Prague, Czechia. ** ----------------------------------- CfP IEEE ICDL 2025 ----------------------------------- https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/ <https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/> 16–19 September 2025 in Prague; Czechia 2025 IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning (ICDL) We invite submissions to explore, extend, and consolidate the interdisciplinary boundaries of this exciting research field. In addition to the usual paper submission-selection process, we announce two Challenges: the BabyBot Challengethat will award computational models that capture core aspects of specific psychology experiments and (new!!) BabyObserve Challengethat will foster the community’s discoveries in research related to the development of cognition and learning and go beyond what is currently in focus. Submissions that address both challenges at the same time are also welcome. ----------------------------------- Important Deadlines ----------------------------------- Contributed papers (6–8 pages)—deadline: March 14, 2025. Workshop and tutorial proposals—deadline: March 14, 2025. Journal Track—deadline: April 1, 2025. Late-breaking results (1-page abstracts)—deadline: June 13, 2025. ----------------------------------- Speakers ----------------------------------- Jeff Krichmar (University of California, Irvine, USA) Masako Myowa-Yamakoshi (Kyoto University, Japan) Giulio Sandini (IIT Genoa, Italy) Tilbe Göksun (Koç University, Turkey) Josef Šivic (CIIRC, CTU in Prague, Czechia) ----------------------------------- Topics ----------------------------------- ICDL is a unique conference gathering researchers from both computational science (including robotics, AI, cognitive architecture) and developmental studies (psychology, linguistics, anthropology, education, philosophy) for a fertile exchange sharing ideas, perspectives, knowledge, research findings on how humans and animals develop sensing, reasoning and actions, including interactive ecologies and how these capabilities can be implemented in computing (embodied) systems. This approach goes hand in hand with the goal of both understanding human and animal development and how this can be applied to improve future intelligent technology including all kinds of artificial systems that will be in close interaction with humans. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to): – general principles and theories of development and learning; – embodied learning in biological systems and robots; – development of skills in biological systems and robots; – developmental stages and sensitive periods; – architectures for cognitive development and life-long learning; – emergence of body knowledge and affordance perception; – learning control of body movement; – (models of) curiosity, intrinsic motivations, exploration, play and active learning; – (models for) prediction, planning and problem solving; – developmentally-inspired machine learning; – applications of machine learning to human and animal development; – emotional development and the role of emotion in learning; – emergence of verbal and nonverbal communication; – metacognitive skills and the role of metacognitive learning and explicit communication; – (models of) human–human and human–system interaction; – epistemological foundations and philosophical issues; – the relationship between evolution and development; – ethics in modeling learning and development. ----------------------------------- Submission ----------------------------------- We accept four types of research submissions. Full 6-page paper submissions—deadline:March 14, 2025. Papers of at most 6 pages in IEEE double column format will undergo peer-review, and accepted and presented submissions will be included in the conference proceedings published by IEEE Xplore. Up to two extra pages are acceptable for a publication fee of $100 per page. Accepted papers will be invited for presentation either in oral or poster format Please make use of the template provided at https://www.ieee.org/conferences/publishing/templates.html <https://www.ieee.org/conferences/publishing/templates.html> Workshop and tutorial proposals—deadline:March 14, 2025. Workshops proposals can be submitted for one-day or half-day-workshop that will take place on the first day of the conference. The proposals should motivate the topic and provide a schedule (topics covered by all speakers). Journal-track posters—deadline:April 1, 2025. Journal track poster submissions must be about a journal paper that has been published the March 2024 – March 2025 period (online ahead of print is fine) on a topic relevant to the conference. Late-breaking posters with 1-page abstract—deadline: June 13, 2025: To encourage discussion of late-breaking results or for work that is not sufficiently mature for a full paper, we will accept 1-page abstracts. These submissions will not be included in the conference proceedings. Accepted abstracts will be presented during the poster session. ----------------------------------- BabyBot Challenge Paper Award ----------------------------------- Babybot Challenge papers are expected to establish a strong link between developmental psychology and robotics and/or computational modeling. Submissions will be judged by the following criteria: – How well does the computational model (e.g., an artificial system, which can be a robot, artificial system, or a software agent) represent the particular features of the experimental research addressed. – How closely the performance of the model replicates the experimental findings and how parsimonious is the model. – How explicit the model is about cognitive mechanisms and the – The extent of the novel insights or explanations generated by the model, and importantly whether the model make interesting and testable predictions. We encourage the authors to tag their submission for “Babybot Challenge” award during contributed paper submission, which would indicate that there is significant content that puts the paper in the spotlight of “Babybot Challenge”. ----------------------------------- BabyObserve Challenge Paper Award ----------------------------------- This Challenge is new, and its intention is to foster the community’s discoveries in research related to the development of cognition and learning that go beyond what is currently in focus. BabyObserve Challenge papers are expected to introduce novel or “edge case” phenomena to the ICDL community from observations of child development, but also related mechanisms, interplays of skills, properties of (environmental and / or social) ecologies that promote it. Observations can result in quantitative or qualitative research that is further described in the paper. Submissions will be judged by the following criteria: – How innovative is the phenomenon and why it is important for the ICDL community – How well is the phenomenon described to inspire computational models – How well is the phenomenon theoretically grounded or linked to the existing literature We encourage the authors to tag their submission for “BabyObserve Challenge” award during contributed paper submission, which would indicate that there is significant content that puts the paper in the spotlight of “BabyObserve Challenge”. General chair: Matej Hoffmann Program chairs: Alessandra Sciutti, Emre Ugur, Katharina J. Rohlfing ** Best regards, Matej Hoffmann, IEEE ICDL 2025 General Chair * -- Matej Hoffmann, PhD Associate Professor Department of Cybernetics Faculty of Electrical Engineering Czech Technical University in Prague Karlovo namesti 13 121 35 Praha 2, Czech Republic +420 224 357 387 https://sites.google.com/site/matejhof/home https://cyber.felk.cvut.cz/humanoids https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/

Dec. 20, 2024

Why Organize a Workshop at FRCCS 2025?

by Hocine Cherifi

Are you passionate about Complex Systems research? Organizing a workshop at *FRCCS 2025* is your chance to: - Shape discussions on cutting-edge topics. - Build networks with leading researchers and practitioners. - Promote interdisciplinary collaboration. 📅 *Submission Deadline:* January 12, 2025 📍 *Location:* Bordeaux, France For additional details, visit the conference website: [ https://iutdijon.u-bourgogne.fr/ccs-france/workshops-proposals/] submit your proposal here: [https://cmt3.research.microsoft.com/FRCCS2025/] Don’t miss this opportunity to make an impact! Best regards, FRCCS 2025 Organizing Committee Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2024 <https://www.complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Founding & Adisory Editor Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/>

Dec. 19, 2024

Postdoc position on predictive representations / dynamic RSA, CIMeC, Uni Trento, Italy

by Moritz Wurm

We are seeking for a highly motivated Postdoc <https://lavoraconnoi.unitn.it/en/research-contracts/center-mind-brain-scien…> to join the Action Recognition and Concepts Group <https://www.cimec.unitn.it/en/929/action-recognition-and-concepts-group> at CIMeC (Center for Mind/Brain Sciences), University of Trento, Italy. The research project will focus on an MEG-based dynamic extension to representational similarity analysis (dynamic RSA <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39355-y>) that we have recently developed in our lab to investigate predictive representations of dynamic events. We're looking for applicants who: · Have a strong drive to pursue a career in scientific research · Possess independent and critical thinking skills · Excel in collaborative teamwork · Have a background in cognitive neuroscience (preferably M/EEG or fMRI, MVPA/RSA) and strong programming skills (preferably Matlab, or Python) · Have experience in action / biological motion perception (ideally in generating point light displays or avatars) or in action execution At CIMeC, you'll have access to cutting-edge research facilities, such as: · A brand new MEGIN TRIUX neo MEG system · A 3T MRI Siemens Prisma · TMS, EEG, and combined TMS-EEG setups · Human intracranial stereotactic EEG · Eye-tracking systems · Kinematic recording systems All equipment is dedicated 100% to research purposes, providing you with the ideal environment for testing your research questions. As a member of our lab and of the wider CIMeC community, you will be part of an international community of students and researchers in a vibrant scientific environment. The working language is English. Our lab enjoys numerous international collaborations, and we offer ample opportunities to engage with the broader scientific community through conferences, workshops, and international meetings, supported by research funding attracted by our lab. Living in Trentino offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. Situated among stunning landscapes between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, it provides a serene setting where you can appreciate nature alongside various cultural activities and sports. Trentino is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, offering an exceptional quality of life alongside your academic pursuits. The Postdoc position will be for 2 years (potentially extendable). The start date cannot be later than May 1, 2025, except for candidates requiring a Visa (in that case the latest start date is one month after the Visa is obtained). The application deadline is February 28, 2025. Visit the application page <https://lavoraconnoi.unitn.it/en/research-contracts/center-mind-brain-scien…> for more information. If you are thrilled to contribute to our research in cognitive neuroscience, please write to moritz.wurm(a)unitn.it <mailto:moritz.wurm@unitn.it>. We look forward to hearing from you! Best wishes, Moritz Wurm

Dec. 18, 2024

Postdoc Position in Neuroimaging at New York

by Cao, Hengyi

The Clinical Neuroscience and Neuroimaging Lab (PI: Dr. Hengyi Cao) in the Institute of Behavioral Science (IBS), Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate for a recently funded NIH R01 project. We use multimodal imaging (structural, functional, diffusional MRI) and neuromodulation (TMS) approaches to study the cognitive function of the cerebellum and its mechanisms for the onset and treatment of psychotic disorders. The funded project will be focused on the development of the cerebellum and the training of cerebellum-based predictive models for psychosis prediction. We welcome applicants who are interested in psychosis and/or cerebellar neuroscience, with strong skills in neuroimaging data analysis, statistics, and machine learning. Previous experience in neurodevelopment is a plus. The successful applicant will be focusing on analyzing a large array of existing datasets, writing up papers, and publishing in high-impact journals. The applicant will also have opportunity to contribute to other ongoing projects in the institute as well as to develop independent studies and acquire independent fundings. The IBS is located at the Zucker Hillside Hospital, one of the largest psychiatric facilities in the broader New York area. It has been an NIH-funded Advanced Center for Intervention and Services Research on Early Psychosis for approximately thirty consecutive years and has tremendous clinical and research resources for conducting various psychiatric studies. To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research interest and prior experience, a CV, and contact information of three references to Hengyi Cao (hcao2(a)northwell.edu) We provide competitive salary commensurate with living costs in the New York City. The position can start as early as January 2025 and will be evaluated on a rolling basis until filled. 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.

Dec. 18, 2024

First Announcement: NSF-Simons NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference, 11-14 August 2025 in Chicago, Illinois

by William L. Kath

* Mark your calendars: The NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference will be held 11-14 August 2025 in Chicago, Illinois *The NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference will be an international forum for the presentation and discussion of *research at the frontier between biology and mathematics.* The Conference is sponsored and hosted by a new national institute charged with enhancing greater integration between these disciplines, the NSF-Simons National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology (NITMB). Located in downtown Chicago, the NITMB was founded in 2023 by the National Science Foundation and the Simons Foundation and is a working partnership between Northwestern University and the University of Chicago. *More information about the NITMB can be found at https://www.nitmb.org. * The conference will be a forum to discuss *challenging problems in biology that are inspiring new mathematics, statistics, theory and computation and to explore mathematics that is generating important new insights into biology.* A half-dozen plenary talks from distinguished international speakers are scheduled at which theory and experiment will be discussed. There will also be 20 speaking slots selected from open abstract applications, and two poster sessions. Priority for the speaking slots will be given to early career researchers, and there will be ample time for discussion, professional networking and career development activities. *Those who work at or who are interested in the math-bio interface are strongly encouraged to apply and attend. * Presentations from all relevant areas of mathematics and biology are welcome. *Confirmed plenary speakers:* *Alexander Auhlela, The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)* Dr. Aulehla uses dynamical systems to study how a vertebrate embryo forms the unique number of body segments that make up the vertebrae. *Carina Curto, Brown University* Dr. Curto combines mathematical tools from algebra, geometry, topology and dynamical systems to elucidate complex patterns of activity in networks of neurons. *Lorin Crawford, Microsoft Research and Brown University* Dr. Crawford uses machine learning and statistical tools to study the genotype-to-phenotype map for complex traits and diseases. *Michael Hawrylycz, The Allen Institute* Dr. Hawrylycz studies the cellular constitution and organization of the brain using single-cell transcriptomics and cutting-edge computational and statistical tools. *Anna-Liisa Laine, University of Helsinki* Dr. Laine studies complex problems in ecology across a spectrum of length and time scales. *Reidun Twarock, University of York* Dr. Twarock uses mathematics to study the symmetries of animal viruses and how they self-assemble inside host cells. Conference location: the National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology, 875 N. Michigan Avenue, 35th floor, Chicago, Illinois. A block of hotel rooms has been reserved at The Drake, 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago, Illinois. *Information about deadlines for registration and abstract applications for a contributed talk or poster will be provided in early 2025.* We are proud to be able to offer conference support for those needing financial assistance to attend the conference. Please watch for more information online at *https://www.nitmb.org/nitmb-mathbio-convergence-conference* or by contacting nitmb(a)nitmb.org The NITMB MathBio Convergence Conference Organizing Committee: Sharon Crook, Arizona State University Adriana Dawes, The Ohio State University Bard Ermentrout, University of Pittsburgh William Kath, Northwestern University Ilaria Rebay, University of Chicago Michael Rust, University of Chicago

Dec. 18, 2024

Research Assistant Position in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience at American University, Washington DC

by Laurie Bayet

*Research Assistant Position in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience at American University, Washington DC* The Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory at American University, located in Washington DC and directed by Dr. Laurie Bayet ( https://www.bayetlab.com/) is currently accepting applications for a full-time, benefits-eligible Research Assistant position to assist on NSF and foundation-funded funded projects investigating infant visual cognition and social communication (e.g., NSF award # 2122961 <https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2122961>). The lab uses electro-encephalography (EEG), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), behavioral measures, and machine learning. The position is ideal for an individual seeking to deepen their research experience in preparation for graduate study. *Applicants should apply electronically at https://american.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/AU/job/Main-Campus-Washington-DC/Res… <https://american.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/AU/job/Main-Campus-Washington-DC/Res…> and submit a CV and cover letter listing the names and contact information of 2-3 references.* Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Prospective applicants may email Dr. Bayet ( bayet(a)american.edu) with any questions. Apologies for cross-posting! *Essential Functions* - *Data Management:* Assisting with data collection in adherence with study protocols, such as: informed consent, EEG, fNIRS, and/or eye-tracking measurements, transferring research data files to the lab server. - *Participant Recruitment and Support:* Outreach, recruitment, and communication with families who participate in the research, such as: designing and implementing outreach/recruitment materials, assessing study eligibility, scheduling study visits, maintaining contact with participating families. - *Data Entry and Processing:* Conduct data entry, data pre-processing, video coding, and data management, in adherence with study protocols. - *Personnel:* Onboarding and supervision of undergraduate research assistants. - *Study General Support:* Assisting with designing and implementing experimental procedures, such as: creating and validating stimuli, surveys, and/or paradigms; monitoring materials and supplies. - *Compliance:* Develop and monitor IRB protocols for approval, modification, or renewal. - *Other duties as assigned by supervisor.* Opportunity to contribute to conference presentations and/or manuscript writing, if desired. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: The initial position is for 1-year and is renewable contingent upon continued funding, a 6-month probationary period, and successful completion of duties. *Required Education and Experience:* - High school diploma or equivalent required. - 1-3 years' relevant experience, such as undergraduate research experience, is required. - Demonstrated interest in developmental psychology, cognitive science, and/or cognitive neuroscience required, such as from undergraduate coursework or research experience. - Excellent organizational and project management skills are required, including initiative, self-motivation, rigor, attention to details, ability to work independently on multiple tasks, ability to learn new skills in a fast-paced environment, and ability to meet deadlines. - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required, including comfort interacting professionally with families, infants, and undergraduate students, and ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. - Prior experience in developmental research (e.g., with infants/children) and/or human neuroimaging research (e.g., EEG, MEG, fNIRS) which may include undergraduate research experience (strongly preferred, but not strictly required if has some other relevant research experience). - Flexibility to adapt to changing hours, such as the ability to run study visits with families during weekends, or occasionally during the evening, is required. *Preferred Education and Experience:* - Bachelor's degree in Psychology or Neuroscience or closely related field preferred. - Computational skills and programming experience in Matlab, R, and/or Python preferred, but not strictly required. - Relevant experience with neuroscience/psychology research tools (e.g., NetStation, Psychtoolbox, Datavyu, Children Helping Science, EEGLAB, Homer, BIDS), data analysis, data processing, manuscript preparation, and/or social media or community outreach a plus. - The ability to start as early as January 2025 and the intention to make a 2-years commitment are strongly preferred. *Additional information:* The Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory is part of the Neuroscience Department <https://www.american.edu/cas/neuroscience/> and the Center for Neuroscience and Behavior <https://www.american.edu/cas/center-neuroscience/> at American University. American University provides a stimulating intellectual environment, just 2 miles from downtown Washington DC. DC offers a vibrant research community, and American University enjoys proximity to other notable research institutions such as the National Institutes of Health. With extensive public transit, an exciting cultural and restaurant scene, many museums and public parks, and proximity to other green spaces in the surrounding region (e.g., Appalachian trail, Shenandoah National Park), Washington DC consistently ranks amongst the top US metropolitan areas for quality of life. *Benefits* AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options <https://secure-web.cisco.com/1xOwxDSlkRlXlYPPZYWq0QpcjQRmrUewLamlS2mE8G0X9U…> . *Other Details* - Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check. - Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university. - Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. - American University is an E-Verify <https://secure-web.cisco.com/1XvV9ls4UAniSQMlhDR3Q7UDPXIx7GKNSsIF67po-xqKDS…> employer *Contact Us* For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline(a)american.edu. *American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.*

Dec. 16, 2024

Final call: Survey on what we mean by 'intelligence', and whether it applies to ChatGPT

by Stefan Heinrich

[apologies for cross-posting] The term 'intelligence' is often used in various fields including Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science, Natural Language Processing, and Machine Learning. But research papers rarely specify what is meant by that term. As a result, we as a research community often talk past each other, even about our basic premises and goals. Authors may even change how they write their papers, based on a wrong impression of what most other researchers believe. We are a team of CogSci/NLP researchers from the IT University of Copenhagen, Denmark. We combed through the literature to collect the key definitional criteria for 'intelligence', and we designed this survey to find out the following: - to what degree do the researchers in different areas agree about what 'intelligence' even means? - what role, if any, does this term play in their research agenda? - what is their perception of the current systems based on large language models (e.g. Claude or ChatGPT)? We would much appreciate hearing your perspective! The survey takes 5-10 minutes and is available until December 18 at this link: https://www.survey-xact.dk/LinkCollector?key=4S7VSN4MS536 Your response is anonymous and will be used for research purposes only. Anonymous and aggregated responses will be publicly available under Creative Commons-Attribution-Non-Commercial license, and we will also publish our analysis. Project team: Bertram Højer, Terne Sasha Thorn Jakobsen, Anna Rogers, Stefan Heinrich Project page: https://bertramhojer.github.io/projects/intelligence-survey/ -- Best regards *************************** Dr. Stefan Heinrich Associate Professor Computer Science Department IT University of Copenhagen https://stefanheinrich.net/ ***************************

Dec. 16, 2024

Two Tenure-Track Assistant Professorships at Bocconi University

by Nicolas Brunel

The Department of Computing Sciences at Bocconi University invites applications for two Tenure Track Assistant Professor positions. The new department of Computing Sciences, created three years ago and in a phase of rapid expansion, is an interdisciplinary department with leading international researchers in various fields including theoretical computer science, machine learning theory, statistical physics modeling, natural language processing, computational neuroscience, as well as biomedical applications. In terms of teaching, the department has recently opened a bachelor in AI, a master in AI, and is strongly involved in the PhD program in Statistics and Computer Science. It has a strong core in theory and applied CS, and aims at broadening its portfolio, in particular towards applications of machine learning not yet currently represented. We are looking for outstanding candidates, curious and open to collaborations with colleagues from other fields. Priority will be given to candidates with expertise in computer vision and/or high performance computing as well as to all candidates whose hiring would increase the diversity of the faculty in the department. In principle the position is to be filled by 1st September 2025, but if necessary, the starting date could be delayed to February 1st, 2026. Bocconi University is an amazingly vibrant academic community with leading academics in various fields. It is located in central Milan, Italy, offering undergraduate, graduate, PhD, MBA and Executive programs. Qualifications: Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Computer Science or closely related areas, and should demonstrate the capacity for exceptional research achievement and the ability to teach effectively in undergraduate, masters, MBA and PhD programs. Experienced candidates should have an established track record of successful research and teaching. Job information: The successful candidates will be expected to develop a strong publication record, broadly contribute to the academic life of the department and be effective teachers both at the undergraduate and graduate level. Compensation and teaching load will be competitive with other top European Schools. The contract will last for 6 years, with the possibility of becoming permanent after a successful tenure process. For additional information concerning the Department of Computing Sciences visit https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://cs.unibocconi.eu/__;!!OToaGQ!sxwqOBKMb_… . Further details on the position may be requested from faculty(a)unibocconi.it . How to apply: Applications including a CV, Research Statement and copies of recent publications (up to 5), plus 3 references must be submitted online at https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://jobmarket.unibocconi.eu/?id=711__;!!OTo… . Applications must be received by 24th January 2025 and candidates will be interviewed online. Bocconi University is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty. Applications are particularly welcome from women and members of groups who are under-represented in academic posts.

Dec. 16, 2024

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11:00 am EST| Claire Meissner-Bernard, Friedrich Miescher Institut for biomedical research, Basel

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Claire Meissner-Bernard Friedrich Miescher Institut for biomedical research Basel on the topic of Properties of memory networks with excitatory-inhibitory assemblies The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * Classical views suggest that memories are stored in assemblies of excitatory neurons that become strongly interconnected during learning. However, recent experimental and theoretical results have challenged this view, leading to the hypothesis that memories are encoded in assemblies containing both excitatory (E) and inhibitory (I) neurons. Understanding the effects of these E-I assemblies on memory function is therefore essential. Using a biologically constrained model of an olfactory memory network, I will first describe how introducing E-I assemblies reorganizes odor-evoked activity patterns in neural state space. Indeed, the “geometry” of neural activity provides valuable insights about the computational properties of neural networks. I will then describe the behavior of networks with E-I assemblies upon partial manipulation of inhibitory neurons. Finally, I will discuss recent experimental data supporting predictions of the model. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ ᐧ

Dec. 15, 2024

postdoc position at Ghent University

by Tom Verguts

Dear colleagues please find here https://jobs.ugent.be/job/Ghent-Doctoral-assistant-department-Experimental-… an advertisement for a doctoral assistant (research and teaching at postdoctoral level) position at the department of Experimental Psychology at Ghent University that may be relevant to you. Best wishes, Tom

Dec. 13, 2024

Ph.D. position in deep learning-based signal processing at Oldenburg University

by Jörn Anemüller

Ph.D. position in deep learning-based signal processing at Oldenburg University We have are looking to fill a fully funded 3-year Ph.D. student position in the field of deep learning-based signal processing algorithms for speech enhancement and computational audition. The position is funded by the German research council (DFG) within the Collaborative Research Centre SFB 1330 “Hearing Acoustics” (https://uol.de/sfb1330/bereich-b-algorithmen) at the Department of Medical Physics and Acoustics, University of Oldenburg. Within project B3 of the research centre, the Computational Audition Group develops machine learning algorithms for signal processing of speech and audio data. For details, please refer to https://uol.de/en/job/research-associate-phd-student-216. Application deadline is Jan. 5th, 2025. Kind regards, Jörn Anemüller

Dec. 13, 2024

New York University Abu Dhabi: Assistant Professor of Psychology, Tenure-Track (Cognition & Perception)

by Robert Volcic

The Division of Science at NYU Abu Dhabi is searching for accomplished individuals to join the Psychology program (https://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/academics/divisions/science/academic-programs/psyc…) as a tenure-track assistant professor specializing in the Cognition and Perception areas. Research strengths of the program include memory, language, visual neuroscience, cognitive development, and multisensory perception and action. We encourage applications from candidates whose research complements or enhances existing areas of expertise, particularly from women, members of historically underrepresented groups, and UAE nationals. NYUAD offers state-of-the-art, centrally-funded research facilities supported by dedicated staff, including MRI, MEG, EEG, and high-performance computing, all designed to support cross-modal research initiatives. We seek candidates who are not only outstanding scholars but also inspiring educators and mentors, capable of fostering intellectual growth in a diverse and vibrant research community of undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postdoctoral associates. Deadline: February 1, 2025 To apply: https://apply.interfolio.com/159687 About NYU Abu Dhabi https://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/ NYU Abu Dhabi is the first comprehensive liberal arts and research campus in the Middle East to be operated abroad by a major American research university. Times Higher Education ranks NYU among the top 30 universities in the world, making NYU Abu Dhabi the highest-ranked university in the UAE and MENA region. NYU Abu Dhabi has integrated a highly selective undergraduate curriculum across the disciplines with a world center for advanced research and scholarship. The university enables its students in the sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts to succeed in an increasingly interdependent world and advance cooperation and progress on humanity’s shared challenges. NYU Abu Dhabi’s high-achieving students have come from over 120 countries and speak over 100 languages. Together, NYU's campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai form the backbone of a unique global university, giving faculty and students opportunities to experience varied learning environments and immersion in other cultures at one or more of the numerous study-abroad sites NYU maintains on six continents. NYUAD is committed to building and strengthening a university-wide culture of inclusion, diversity, belonging and equity (IDBE), which is fundamental to the University’s commitment to excellence. Visit our website for more information on NYUAD’s commitment to IDBE and how these values are fundamental to our mission (https://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/about/inclusion-diversity-belonging-and-equity.html) Students are drawn from among the world’s best. They are bright, intellectually passionate, and committed to building a campus environment anchored in mutual respect, understanding, and care. The NYUAD undergraduate student body has garnered an impressive record of scholarships, graduate-school admissions, and other global honors. Graduate education is an area of growth for the University; the current graduate student population of over 100 students is expected to expand in the next decade as doctoral programs are developed. Working for NYUAD At NYUAD, we recognize that Abu Dhabi is more than where you work; it’s your home. In order for faculty/academic staff to thrive, we offer a comprehensive benefits package. This starts with a generous relocation allowance; educational assistance for your dependents; access to health and wellness services; and more. NYUAD is committed to faculty/academic staff success throughout the academic trajectory, providing support for ambitious and world-class research projects and innovative, interactive teaching approaches. Support for dual-career families is a priority. Visit our website for more information on benefits for you and your dependents (https://nyuad.nyu.edu/content/dam/nyuad/about/careers/magazines/NYU-Abu-Dha…) Qualifications This position requires a Ph.D. in Psychology, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, or a related field. Individuals must have a proven record of excellence in teaching, a strong record of scholarship, and the ability to develop and lead high-quality research. Application Instructions To apply for this position, please submit the following items: CV Cover Letter Research Statement including a summary of significant research contributions Teaching Statement Recent teaching evaluations (if available) Names and contact information for three (3) references. We anticipate requesting letters at the long list stage. The referees will be contacted to upload their letters directly to Interfolio. Do not include the letters in your uploaded documents. We will begin reviewing applications immediately. Shortlisted candidates are expected to interview in Spring 2025. We anticipate that successful candidates can start the appointment and relocate to Abu Dhabi in the academic year 2025-2026, subject to final budget approval. NYUAD is committed to equality and is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates who will enrich and contribute to the cultural and ethnic diversity of our university. For questions about this position, please email: nyuad.academicrecuitment(a)nyu.edu. Join NYU Abu Dhabi, an exceptional place for exceptional people. NYUAD values diversity, inclusion, belonging, and equity; such principles are fundamental to the university's commitment to excellence. NYUAD is an equal opportunity employer. We particularly welcome applications from members of historically underrepresented groups, women, and UAE nationals. Multidisciplinary research and exceptional teaching in a highly diverse and inclusive campus community are hallmarks of the University’s mission.

Dec. 13, 2024

Deadline approaching School on the Origins of Life, Behavior and Cognition 2025

by Ahmed El hady

*School on the Origins of Life, Behavior and Cognition* *March 10-21, 2025* *ICTP-SAIFR, São Paulo, Brazil* */Application Deadline:/ December 28, 2024* School on Origins is an interdisciplinary school that tackles the foundational questions concerning the origins of biophysical systems which include but are not limited to : molecular, cellular, neural and behavioral systems. We aim to find principles shared across systems using tools from statistical physics, mathematical analysis and numerical simulations to explore these questions. We have invited researchers that work both on the experimental and theoretical side to cover a variety of biophysical systems and theoretical approaches. The school is aimed at graduate students either at the master’s or PhD level who have a strong quantitative background and a keen interest to pursue interdisciplinary research. We invite students pursuing degrees in physics, computer science, engineering, or mathematics. Those pursuing degrees in biology need to provide evidence of strong and extensive quantitative background in topics such as calculus, dynamical systems and numerical programming. /There is no registration fee and limited funds are available for travel and local expenses./ *Organizers:* * *Ahmed El Hady* (Cluster of Excellence Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Germany.) * *Antonio C. Roque* (USP Ribeirão Preto, Brazil) * *Daniel Y. Takahashi* (UFRN, Brazil) *Lecturers:* * *Suzanne Still* (University of Hawaii at Mānoa, USA) * *Randall Beer* (Indiana University Bloomington, USA) * *Asif Ghazanfar* (Princeton University, USA) * *Don Katz* (Brandeis University, USA) * *Gandhimohan M. Viswanathan* (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte – UFRN, Brazil) * *Bruno Mota* (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) * *Ana Amador* (University of Buenos Aires, Argentina ) All details and application procedure can be found here: https://www.ictp-saifr.org/solbc2025/ All the best, Ahmed El Hady Dr. Ahmed El Hady Research Group Leader Cluster for Advanced Study of Collective Behavior University of Konstanz / Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz Room ZT 907 Postbox 687 Tel.: +49 7531 88-4742

Dec. 13, 2024

Sussex Neuroscience PhD Programme

by Thomas Nowotny

The Sussex Neuroscience PhD Programme is open for applications for September 2025 entry- application deadline of January 13th 2025. The Programme provides full funding for both UK and international students, covering all tuition fees and providing a UKRI rate stipend (~£19.7k tax free). A summary can be found on FindAPhD: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/program/the-sussex-neuroscience-4-year-phd-pr… With regards, Thomas -- Prof. Thomas Nowotny Head of AI Research Group CCNR, Sussex Neuroscience Phone: +44-1273-678593 Engineering and Informatics, Fax: +44-1273-877873 University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny<http://sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny>

Dec. 12, 2024

Tenure Track Assistant Professor Position in Machine Learning/AI

by Robert Legenstein

The Institute of Theoretical Computer Science at Graz University of Technology (Austria) has opened a Tenure Track Assistant Professor Position in the area of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. The research focus will be on basic research in the overlapping field of sub-symbolic and symbolic AI within the prestigious Cluster of Excellence Bilateral AI <https://www.bilateral-ai.net/> ( https://www.bilateral-ai.net ). For details see the application portal: https://www.tugraz.at/fakultaeten/csbme/news/jobs-grants-calls/tenure-track… Application deadline is 6th of January 2025. -- Dr. Robert Legenstein Univ.-Professor Institute of Theoretical Computer Science Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria http://www.igi.tugraz.at/legi/ WebEx:https://tugraz.webex.com/meet/robert.legenstein Follow @CompLegenstein on Twitter. ++43/316/873-5824 ----------------------------------

Dec. 12, 2024

Phd position in decision making

by Jyotika Bahuguna

We are looking for a talented and motivated PhD student to study behavioral and computation models of evidence accumulation during sequential decision-making. The student will work in the Functional System Dynamics (FunSy) team at University of Strasbourg with Dr. Jyotika Bahuguna (computational neuroscience, basal ganglia modeling), in collaboration with Dr. Sebastien Ballesta (non-human primate neuroethology) and Dr. Demian Battaglia (network and information science). The project will focus on the analysis and modelling of behavioral data from non-human primates in naturalistic environments collected in the local Silabe primate center ( https://www.silabe.com/en/research/a-platform-for-ethology-and-cognitive-ne…) a unique facility in which non-human primates of several species freely interact and engage in self motivated decision making tasks without any experimenter’s intervention via fully automated modules located within the ruins of a fortress. The research project will involve modeling value modulation, choice bias and reward optimization strategies in the context of sequential choices and evidence accumulation models. In addition, the interested student will also have the opportunity of engaging in parallel projects about the role cortico-basal-ganglia-thalamic circuit during sequential choices, by profiting of an ongoing collaboration between Dr. Bahuguna and the exploratory intelligence group (Timothy Verstynen, Jonathan Rubin, Eric Yttri) in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. The Phd student will join LNCA (Laboratoire des Neurosciences Cognitive et Adaptive) and specifically the FunSy team (Functional System Dynamics group - https://funsyteam.org/) offering a rich scientific environment working on neural recordings with state-of-the-art experimental techniques (Dr. Romain. Goutagny) with sophisticated analytical tools including machine-learning, information theory, network science and computational modeling (Dr. Jyotika Bahuguna, Dr. Demian Battaglia) relevant to behavior, memory, attention, decision making and sensorimotor coordination functions. The University of Strasbourg is one of the top universities in France and is home to a rich neuroscience community. Strasbourg as a city combines a high quality of life with a prestigious history, an international dimension (it is one of the capitals of the European Union) and a central position in Europe (well connected via high speed trains to Paris, Frankfurt, Berlin, etc.). The position is fully funded for 3 years with a monthly salary according to standards of University of Strasbourg including benefits (full health insurance coverage, paid vacations). The position will be open until a valid candidate will be found. The intended start of the contract will be ideally in Spring 2025. Candidates must hold a Master degree (or express genuine interest) in Computational/Theoretical/ Cognitive Neuroscience or a related field. Experience in one or more of the following is a plus: * Data analysis * Evidence accumulation models * Behavioral paradigms with animals Candidates should have the following skills: * Good proficiency in English, both spoken and written * Programming (python preferably) * Scientific writing For application, please send the following information in a single PDF file to Dr. Jyotika Bahuguna (bahuguna(a)unistra.fr or jyotika.bahuguna(a)gmail.com) * A curriculum vitae, including a list of publications, if any. * Transcripts of grades of Master's degree. * The contact information and recommendation letters from at least two references. Regards, Jyotika Bahuguna -- Junior professor, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptives (LNCA), University of Strasbourg, 12 Rue Goethe, 67000, Strasbourg

Dec. 12, 2024

Call for tutorials and workshops at the 34rd Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting CNS*2025

by Rubchinsky, Leonid L

Dear Colleagues, We are requesting proposals for workshops and tutorials at the 34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting, CNS*2025 (Florence, Italy, 5-9 July 2025). Proposals from all levels of faculty as well as advanced postdoctoral fellows are welcome. Tutorials are to be held on the first day and workshops on the last two days of the CNS*2025 Meeting. This is an excellent opportunity to reach international audience of computational neuroscientists participating in this meeting. CALL FOR WORKSHOPS: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-call-for-workshops Priority Deadline for proposals: February 1, 2025. Contact: workshops(a)cnsorg.org CALL FOR TUTORIALS: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-call-for-tutorials Deadline for proposals: February 1, 2025. Contact: tutorials(a)cnsorg.org INFORMATION ABOUT CNS*2025: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025 Florence, Italy, 5-9 July 2025 Keynote Speakers Ken Miller (Columbia) Konrad Kording (UPenn) Sara Solla (Northwestern) Maurizio Mattia (Istituto Superiore di Sanità ) Registration and abstract submission will open in mid-January 2025. With kind regards, Leonid Rubchinsky OCNS Vice President, on behalf of the OCNS Board of Directors *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202-3216 lrubchin(a)iu.edu math.indianapolis.iu.edu/~lrubchin/ ***********************

Dec. 11, 2024

Re: Abstract Submission for ICMNS 2025, June 17-20 in Barcelona, Spain now Open

by Alex Roxin

Dear all, *Abstract submission has been extended* for the International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS) 2025, to be held in Barcelona, Spain from the 17th to the 20th of June. The new deadline is the *19th of January, 2025*. The format for submission is a single abstract of plain text plus a pdf file of supporting information in any format you please, with a maximum extension of one page. Please find the link and more details regarding the submission process on the conference website https://www.crm.cat/international-conference-on-mathematical-neuroscience-i… We look forward to receiving your submissions and seeing you in Barcelona this coming June! best regards, The Organizing Committee: Toni Guillamon Gemma Huguet Ernest Montbrió Alex Roxin Missatge de Alex Roxin <alexander.roxin(a)gmail.com> del dia dl., 18 de nov. 2024 a les 17:04: > Dear all, > > We are happy to announce that *abstract submission* for the International > Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS) 2025, to be held in > Barcelona, Spain from the 17th to the 20th of June,* is now open*. > Abstract submission will remain open until December 16th. The format for > submission is a single abstract of plain text plus a pdf file of supporting > information in any format you please, with a maximum extension of one page. > Please find the link and more details regarding the submission process on > the conference website > https://www.crm.cat/international-conference-on-mathematical-neuroscience-i… > > We are also pleased to inform you that we will have three excellent > keynote speakers: Tatyana Sharpee, Tatjana Tschumachenko and Misha Tsodyks, > as well as eight exciting invited speakers whose names you will find on the > website. We look forward to receiving your submissions and seeing you in > Barcelona this coming June! > > best regards, > The Organizing Committee: > Toni Guillamon > Gemma Huguet > Ernest Montbrió > Alex Roxin > > -- > Alex Roxin > Computational Neuroscience Group > Centre de Recerca Matemàtica > Campus de Bellaterra, Edifici C > 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona) > https://sites.google.com/site/alexanderroxin/home > -- Alex Roxin Computational Neuroscience Group Centre de Recerca Matemàtica Campus de Bellaterra, Edifici C 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona) https://sites.google.com/site/alexanderroxin/home

Dec. 11, 2024

Up to 3 PhD studentships available at University of Sussex

by Thomas Nowotny

The University of Sussex invites applications for PhD studentships based within Sussex AI, an interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence based at the University of Sussex. Sussex AI is the focal point of research in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science methods and applications within the University of Sussex. We draw together world-leading experts from across the University to create a critical mass of technical skills and domain knowledge. Our research and training cover a wide range of topics across AI and data science, with a unique multidisciplinary Sussex angle. Given the broad range of research carried out within Sussex AI, we encourage applications from students with innovative proposals in the following areas: * Theoretical challenges in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. * Innovative methodological developments in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science that enable novel applications. * Address complex problems that require in-depth interdisciplinary research at the intersections of traditional disciplinary boundaries. The University of Sussex believes that the diversity of its staff and student community is fundamental to creative thinking, pedagogic innovation, intellectual challenge, and the interdisciplinary approach to research and learning. We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion amongst our staff and students. As such, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Deadline 19 February 2025 23:59 Please find project ideas here: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/ai-research-group/programmes/suss… The full advert and how to apply: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/fees-funding/phd-funding/view/1807-Sussex-AI… Best regards, Thomas -- Prof. Thomas Nowotny Head of AI Research Group CCNR, Sussex Neuroscience Phone: +44-1273-678593 Engineering and Informatics, Fax: +44-1273-877873 University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny<http://sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny>

Dec. 10, 2024

PhD position in Göttingen: Optogenetics in the Retina and Computational Neuroscience

by Gollisch, Tim

A PhD position is available in the lab of Tim Gollisch at the University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany. The PhD project will investigate how optogenetics can be used for vision restoration therapy to treat blindness. The work will involve multielectrode arrays to record spiking activity from isolated retinas of mice that express light-sensitive ion channels in retinal neurons. Furthermore, computational tools will be used for model-driven data analysis and assessment of neural coding under optogenetic stimulation. Prior experience with electrophysiology or computational analyses/computer programming will be considered advantageous for the application. The position will be available starting April 1, 2025, at the earliest. The project is part of the newly funded Collaborative Research Center "Disease Mechanisms and Functional Restoration of Sensory and Motor Systems" in Göttingen and will be embedded in a lively research environment focusing on bringing basic research closer to clinical applications. There will also be connections to the newly established Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Optogenetic Therapies (https://ekfz.uni-goettingen.de) in Göttingen as well as to the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Göttingen. To get a better idea about the research group, see https://www.retina.uni-goettingen.de/. To apply, send an email to Tim Gollisch (tim.gollisch(a)med.uni-goettingen.de<mailto:tim.gollisch@med.uni-goettingen.de>), including your CV, a statement of motivation, and contact details for two letters of recommendation. The University Medical Center Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer, and women are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities and equal qualifications will be given preferential treatment.

Dec. 10, 2024

Neurotheory postdoc opportunities in San Diego

by Ann Kennedy

The Kennedy lab is recruiting for multiple funded postdoctoral positions in theoretical and computational neuroscience, following our recent lab move to Scripps Research in sunny San Diego, California. Ongoing projects in the lab span topics in reservoir computing, reinforcement learning/control theory analysis of complex behavior, neuromechanical whole-organism modeling, computational behavior analysis, and joint analysis/modeling of neural and behavioral data collected in socially interacting animals. We have newly acquired funding to characterize progression of behavioral phenotypes in Parkinson’s, to model cellular/circuit mechanisms underlying internal state-dependent changes in neural population dynamics, and to characterize the neural and behavioral dynamics of pairs of interacting animals across multiple species. We also have openings for machine learning work in imitation learning/generative modeling of mouse social interactions using a massive 15-lab dataset. Projects are flexible and can be tailored to applicants’ research and training goals, and there are abundant opportunities for new collaboration with local experimental groups. San Diego has a fantastic research community and very high quality of life, with excellent support for international students at Scripps. Our campus is located at the Pacific coast, at the northern edge of UCSD not far from the Salk Institute. The Neuroscience department at Scripps is a powerhouse in the study of the nervous system’s sensing of and interaction with the rest of the body, making it an ideal environment for the study of internal state-dependent modulation of behavior. We offer competitive postdoctoral stipends that reflect coastal cost-of-living expectations and include a relocation bonus, with research professorship positions available for qualified applicants. More information about the lab at https://www.kennedylab.org. Please email Ann Kennedy akennedy(a)scripps.edu<mailto:akennedy@scripps.edu> with inquiries. Ann Kennedy Associate Professor Dorris Neuroscience Center The Scripps Research Institute La Jolla, CA 92037 kennedylab.org<https://www.kennedylab.org/>

Dec. 8, 2024

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 11:00 am EST| Noam Sadon-Grosman ELSC, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Noam Sadon-Grosman ELSC, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem on the topic of Somatomotor to Higher Order Cognition - The Detailed Organization of the Human Cerebellum that implement computation The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: * The cerebellum is long known for its somatomotor functions. Recent evidence has converged to suggest that major portions of the human cerebellum are linked to cognitive and affective functions. In this talk, I will present new insights into the functional organization of the human cerebellum. Our findings reveal three distinct somatomotor representations, including a newly identified third map that is spatially dissociated from the two well-established body representations. Between these body representations, a large megacluster extending across Crus I/II was consistently found with subregions linked to higher-order cerebral association networks. Within this megacluster, specific regions responded to domain-flexible cognitive control, while juxtaposed regions differentially responded to language, social, and spatial/episodic task demands. Similarly organized clusters also exist in the caudate consistent with the presence of multiple basal ganglia–cerebellar–cerebral cortical circuits that maintain functional specialization across their entire distributed extents. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Dec. 8, 2024

Daniel Messinger speaking on December 12 in Developing Minds global online lecture series

by Jochen Triesch

Dear colleagues, On December 12, the Developing Minds global online lecture series is proud to host Daniel Messinger, Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Florida, United States, USA, speaking on: "Does Interaction Drive Development? Lessons from infant emotion, autism, and preschool language“ Thursday, December 12, 2024 9:00 am EST (Eastern Standard Time, US) 14:00 UTC (Universal Coordinated Time) 15:00 CET (Central European Time) 23:00 JST (Japan Standard Time) The zoom link/credentials are: https://uni-frankfurt.zoom-x.de/j/66558045290?pwd=Ien7tEzqeNGOdqHi7zKg4EJuY… Meeting-ID: 665 5804 5290 Kenncode: 753667 Abstract: A dynamic systems perspective suggests that developmental achievements are composed of a progression of real-time interactions. But evidence supporting this surmise is not common. Dr. Messinger employs machine learning of audio, video, and ultrawideband signals in naturalistic contexts to highlight the role of individual and interactive dynamics in constituting developmental outcomes. He will discuss a series of salient examples linking the emergence of interactive competencies with developmental outcomes. These include the emergence of interactive smiling and attachment, as well as the emergence of autism and preschool language competencies. Dr. Messinger will conclude with a discussion of the strengths and limitations of current empirical research linked to dynamic systems and developmental cascades perspectives. Short Bio: Dr. Daniel Messinger is a professor and Director of the Child Division in the Department of Psychology at the University of Miami where he is the Director of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Program at the Institute for Data Science and Computing. He employs computational approaches to big behavioral data to understand the interactive origins of social, language, and emotional development. His research focuses on social and communicative development in typically developing children, children with hearing loss, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and children whose communicative development is affected by prenatal drug exposure and poverty. The talk will be recorded and made available for later viewing. For more information on the talk series and recordings of previous events, please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/developing-minds-series/home Best regards, Jochen Triesch -- Prof. Dr. Jochen Triesch Johanna Quandt Chair for Theoretical Life Sciences Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies and Goethe University Frankfurt http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/~triesch/ Tel: +49 (0)69 798-47531 Fax: +49 (0)69 798-47611

Dec. 6, 2024

Women in Memory Research 2025 - WiMR2025

by Vinita Samarasinghe

*Women in Memory Research 2025* The research unit “Constructing scenarios of the past” seeks to promote women in memory research. The program WiMR 2025 is made possible through a grant from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and collaboration with the Ruhr University Bochum. Come and learn what an academic career looks likeand discover its advantages. During your week at the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB)you will participate in GEM 2025 where you will hear about the latest research in generative episodic memory, be given the opportunityto present your research and meet with female scientists from the field. Before and after GEM you'll be introduced to Bochum, the RUB and the FOR 2812 labs <https://for2812.rub.de/projects/>. Our participating senior scientists include: Ali Boyle, London School of Economics; Iris Engelhard, Utrecht University; Xenia Kobeleva, Ruhr U. Bochum; Sabine Seehagen, Ruhr U. Bochum; Kristina Liefke, Ruhr U. Bochum. Sounds exciting? *Who can apply:* Womenmasters students in their final year of study and recently graduated masters students who are looking into an academic career in the area of memory research/neuroscience. Applicants must have excellent grades and be able to communicate in English. Selection of participants is competitive. We only have 12 spots! *How to apply:* Send your application including a one page letter of motivation, a current CV, masters transcripts and a letter of recommendation from one of your professors. Your application should be sent, as a single PDF document, to Vinita Samarasinghe @ for2812+gem(a)rub.de <mailto:for2812@rub.de> by February 15, 2025 with the subject line "WiMR - application". If you need child care or any other support please note this in your application. Applications will be evaluated and ranked after the deadline has passed and notifications will be sent out by 28.02.2025. If you accept, you must register for GEM 2025. *What to expect from us:* We will provide bed and breakfast (single occupancy), cover travel costs (restrictions apply) and provide some meals. The program is offered in English. *What we expect from you:* You are present for all of the program and that you present your current research in the form of a poster at GEM 2025. *Tentative program: * 02.06.2025 AM Welcome to Bochum PM GEM 2025 03.06.2025 GEM 2025 04.06.2025 AM GEM 2025 PM Fireside chat with senior memory researchers 05.06.2025 Lab visits 06.06.2025 Workshop *Questions? * Visit our website at https://for2812.rub.de/wimr2025 for more information. Please feel free to get in touch with Vinita Samarasinghe (for2812(a)rub.de <mailto:for2812@rub.de>) if you have any questions. -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Dec. 4, 2024

PhD Opportunity at the University of Bristol: Investigation of traumatic memory processing during sleep using through advance machine learning

by Eleonora Russo

The University of Bristol is pleased to offer a fully-funded PhD position to study the processing of traumatic memories during sleep using advanced machine learning techniques. The successful candidate will be supervised by an interdisciplinary team of experimental and computational neuroscientists, including Dr. Ross Purple, Dr. Sean Froudist-Walsh, and Dr. Eleonora Russo. This project will also involve collaboration with the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies in Pisa, Italy. Application deadline is 4pm Monday 6th January 2025. Find more information at: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/funded-phd-decoding-the-processing-of… For enquiries, please contact: Dr Ross Purple https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/en/persons/ross-j-purple Dr. Eleonora Russo https://www.santannapisa.it/en/eleonora-russo Dr Sean Froudist-Walsh https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/en/persons/sean-froudist-walsh --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eleonora Russo, Ph.D. PI of the Brain Dynamics Laboratory Assistant Professor at Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, The BioRobotics Institute, P.za Martiri della Liberta', 33 56127 Pisa, Italy

Dec. 3, 2024

Seizure detection challenge (2025)

by Jonathan Dan

Hello, EPFL is organizing a competition in collaboration with the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders. The competition aims to develop epileptic seizure detection algorithms for assisting in the analysis of scalp electroencephalography. It is open to anyone with skills in machine learning and artificial intelligence. This competition should help identify algorithms well suited for hospital adoption while simultaneously pushing for open and reproducible science. You will find a description of the competition on https://epilepsybenchmarks.com/challenge Hurry up! We are expecting algorithm submissions by 16 February 2025. Happy hacking Jonathan Dan Post-Doc ESL-EPFL

Dec. 3, 2024

Postdoc and PhD call | Spatiotemporal dynamics and computation in cortical networks

by Lyle Muller

Postdoctoral and graduate research positions are available at Western University<http://mullerlab.ca/> (London, ON) and the Fields Lab for Network Science<http://www.fields.utoronto.ca/activities/fields-lab-network-science> (Toronto, ON). These positions will be supervised by Lyle Muller and involve collaborations with advanced methods of brain imaging (Mark Schnitzer, Stanford), neuroengineering (Duygu Kuzum, UCSD), theoretical neuroscience (Todd Coleman, Stanford), and neurophysiology of visual perception (John Reynolds, Salk Institute for Biological Studies). In collaboration with this multi-disciplinary team, researchers will bring together data science, computational science, and applied mathematics to understand spatiotemporal dynamics and computation in the circuits of neocortex. The project may include intermittent travel between labs to present results and facilitate collaborative work. Recent publications from the lab include: * Davis Z*, Muller L*, Martinez-Trujillo J, Sejnowski TJ, Reynolds J (2020) Spontaneous traveling cortical waves gate perception in awake behaving primates. Nature 587: 432 – 436.<https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2802-y> * Benigno G, Budzinski RC, Davis Z, Reynolds J, Muller L (2023) Waves traveling over a map of visual space can ignite short-term predictions of sensory input. Nature Communications 14: 3409. <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39076-2> * Liboni L*, Budzinski RC*, Busch AN*, Löwe S, Keller TA, Welling M, Muller L (2023) Image segmentation with traveling waves in an exactly solvable recurrent neural network. arXiv:2311.16943.<https://arxiv.org/abs/2311.16943> * Busch A*, Roussy M*, … Mináč J, Sachs AJ, Palaniyappan L, Muller L*, Martinez-Trujillo JC* (2024) Neuronal activation sequences in lateral prefrontal cortex encode visuospatial working memory during virtual navigation. Nature Communications 15: 4471.<https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48664-9> * Budzinski RC*, Busch A*, Mestern S, Martin E, Liboni LHB, Pasini FW, Mináč J, Coleman T, Inoue W, Muller L (2024) An exact mathematical description of computation with transient spatiotemporal dynamics in a complex-valued neural network. Communications Physics 7: 239.<https://www.nature.com/articles/s42005-024-01728-0> Prior experience with scientific computing, signal analysis, and applied mathematics is preferred. Western University offers an excellent research environment and support. Candidates can write to lmuller2(a)uwo.ca<mailto:lmuller2@uwo.ca> with a CV and short statement of interest. Both the lab and the University are deeply committed to fostering diversity and scientific outreach. Applications from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged, and any interested applicants are welcomed to write the PI directly with questions about the research environment. -- Lyle Muller http://mullerlab.ca

Dec. 2, 2024

Permanent position in mathematical stochastic modeling of neuromodulation

by Axel Hutt

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Permanent position in mathematical stochastic modeling of neuromodulation in brain networks and application to mental disorders ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The new research team NECTARINE at INRIA in Strasbourg / France aims to create a synergy between clinicians and mathematical researchers to develop new healthcare technologies. The team works on stochastic microscopic network models to describe macroscopic experimental data, such as behavior and/or encephalographic. They collaborate closely with clinicians and choose their research focus along the clinical applications. Major scientific objectives are stochastic multi-scale simulations and mean-field descriptions of neural activity on the macroscopic scale. Moreover, merging experimental data and numerical models by machine learning techniques is an additional objective. The team's clinical research focuses on neuromodulation of patients suffering from deficits in attention and temporal prediction. The team offers the possibility to apply for a permanent position as Chargé de Recherche (CR) or Directeur de Recherche (DR) in the research field of mathematical neuroscience with a strong focus on stochastic dynamics linking brain network modelling with experimental data. The new colleague should have a strong expertise in mathematical modeling with a focus on stochastic nonlinear dynamics and/or network dynamics, as well as strong interest in clinical applications. Strong programming skills are mandatory. INRIA is a French National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology ( [ https://www.inria.fr/en | https://www.inria.fr/en ] ) with 9 research centres in France. The new team will be located in the centre of Strasbourg on the hospital campus as part of the Research Centre in Nancy. The application deadline will be January 15, 2025 , but it is strongly recommended to contact us well in advance. For more details or sending your application documents (motivation letter, CV including publication list), please contact Dr. Axel Hutt (email: axel.hutt(a)inria.fr ) . -- Axel Hutt Directeur de Recherche Equipe MIMESIS INRIA Nancy Grand Est Bâtiment IHU 1, Place de l'Hopital 67000 Strasbourg, France [ https://mimesis.inria.fr/members/axel-hutt/ | https://mimesis.inria.fr/members/axel-hutt/ ]

Dec. 2, 2024

Postdoctral position at the Department of Biomedical Data Science, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University (FHU), Aichi, Japan

by 浦久保秀俊

We invite applications for an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher in the area of computational neuroscience or systems biology. A new collaborative project with Kyushu U (#) has been launched to elucidate biochemical signaling involved in the development of the olfactory system. We are working on a project to simulate how neural circuits in the brain acquire function through development. As an example, we are focusing on the process of mitral cell dendritic pruning that leads to the acquisition of odor selectivity (Fujimoto 2023, Dev Cell 58, 1221–1236). This process is governed by the coupling of biochemical signaling of small G proteins and neuronal electrical activity. In addition, the neural circuit simulation will be performed to elucidate the emergent process of odor information processing. The NEURON simulator or other platform simulators will be useful for this project. (#) Grant-in-Aid for Transformative Research Areas(A), Japan Society of the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Japan. https://plaza.umin.ac.jp/dynamic-brain/en/ 1. Job title Full-time Postdoctoral Researcher 2. Begin date January 1st 2025 or later (negotiable) 3. Appointment period Annually renewed based on evaluation. Up to March/2029. 4. Workplace Fujita Health University (FHU), Aichi, Japan https://www.fujita-hu.ac.jp/en/ 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan 5. Qualifications Applicants must: - have Ph.D. (or be near the completion of the degree). - have strong motivations and ambitions to participate in the research above. 6. Compensation Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Social insurance will be applied. Days off include public holidays, New Year's holidays (Dec. 29 - Jan 3), summer vacation, and sick leave. These and other provisions are in accordance with FHU regulations. 7. Required documents Please send the following five materials to the email address below: 1. Complete CV 2. List of publications 3. Reprints of 1 to 3 major publications 4. Document (one or two pages in A4 or letter size) describing: - Summary of your previous research and current interest. - Relevance to the project research and potential contributions. Describe your skills in neuronal and neural circuit simulations and their relevance to Fujimoto 2023 (Dev Cell 58, 1221-1236). - Technical skills (programming skills, etc). 5. One letter of recommendation, if available, from the current supervisor. 8. Selection Selection will be made based on application screening and interviews. 9. Others No smoking allowed on the premises of FHU. 10. Application and Contact Hidetoshi Urakubo, Ph.D. Email: hidetoshi.urakubo(a)fujita-hu.ac.jp Department of Biomedical Data Science, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University (FHU), 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan Phone: +81-562-93-9628 https://researchmap.jp/urakubo?lang=en https://www.fujita-hu.ac.jp/~datascience/

Dec. 2, 2024

Fully funded 3-year PhD scholarships in computational neuroscience, neurotechnology and AI available

by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt

============================================================== Professor KongFatt Wong-Lin has several fully funded 3-year PhD research scholarships in computational neuroscience, neurotechnology and AI available. He is the lead/main supervisor for two of the available PhD scholarships on bridging fundamental cognitive computational neuroscience of decision-making and learning to brain-inspired AI algorithms. Applications are available from 2nd December 2024 at: * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/11b-intelligent-systems… [Open to international or UK/Ireland applicants; deadline: 24th February 2025] * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/11b-intelligent-systems… [Open to international or UK/Ireland applicants; deadline: 24th February 2025] Two other PhD scholarships are also available on neurotechnology and machine learning: * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/11b-intelligent-systems… [Open to international or UK/Ireland applicants; deadline: 24th February 2025] * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/11b-intelligent-systems… [Open only to UK/Ireland applicants; deadline 9th Jan 2025] Please kindly direct any queries to Prof. Wong-Lin (k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk) Many thanks. The research teams involved in the PhD projects: * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research/topic/computer-science/intelligent-system… * https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research/topic/computer-science/intelligent-system… Our School and its Intelligent Systems Research Centre (https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research/topic/computer-science/intelligent-system…) have neuroscience and AI related research communities and facilities in: * NeuroAI and computational neuroscience * Brain-computer interfaces/non-invasive neurotech * MEG and EEG brain imaging * Neuromorphic computing * Cognitive robotics * High-performance computing ----------------- In 2021, Ulster University was, in the UK: * ranked 2nd for Ph.D. researcher satisfaction * 6th largest Computer Science and Informatics unit * 7th for world-leading or internationally excellent research and impact with respect to staff number. Derry~Londonderry is a vibrant, friendly and affordable city with ~100K people with high quality of life, close to stunning coastline and outdoor activities in the north and north-west of Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland. Ulster University has recently been awarded by Times Higher Education as the 'University of the Year 2024', the top higher education institution in the UK and Ireland. ============================================================== Professor KongFatt Wong-Lin Intelligent Systems Research Centre School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems Ulster University, Derry~Londonderry, UK E-mail: k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk Web: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-wong-lin This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

Dec. 1, 2024

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 11:00 am EST| Laura Driscoll Allen Institute

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Laura Driscoll Allen Institute on the topic of Task structure shapes underlying dynamical systems that implement computation The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *The talk will be in two parts. 1) First, I will present published work on multitasking artificial recurrent neural networks that revealed "dynamical motifs". Dynamical motifs are recurring patterns of network activity that implement specific computations through dynamics, such as attractors, decision boundaries and rotations. Motifs are reused across tasks and reflect the modular subtask structure of commonly studied cognitive tasks. We believe this compositional structure to be a feature of most complex cognitive tasks. This work establishes dynamical motifs as a fundamental unit of compositional computation, intermediate between neuron and network. 2) Building on these insights, we are now investigating whether shared dynamical motifs can explain the effectiveness of curriculum learning in animal behavior. Also known as animal shaping, curriculum learning is a training approach where complex tasks are learned in stages through a series of subtasks. Our work provides a novel framework for analysis of neural and behavioral data and has the potential to guide the design of optimal training protocols for both artificial systems and for animals. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Dec. 1, 2024

Postdoc in animal behaviour at Bristol University

by Conor Houghton

We have a new BBSRC funded project that will develop automated methods to quantify reward learning in chickens and dogs as well as expanding studies in mice. The project will involve both behavioural studies and working with engineers to develop novel automated devices to test reward learning in animals with minimal human interactions. The ultimate goal will be to validate methods for the unbiased assessment of animal welfare. This is an exciting opportunity to study behaviour in non-laboratory conditions and across species, including in chickens, an endlessly fascinating social animal. We are looking for someone interested in animal behaviour and keen to work on novel devices; we welcome applicants with a computer science or engineering background who is excited to be involved in experiments, or someone with an experimental background eager to learn a bit of programming and some modelling. Deadline 2024-12-17, details at https://www.bristol.ac.uk/jobs/find/details/?nPostingId=185738&nPostingTarg… and feel free to email me, as co-I, or Emma Robinson the PI (emma.s.j.robinson(a)bristol.ac.uk) for any informal queries. All the best Con ______________________________ Conor Houghton SEMT, Bristol University. Michael Ventris Building, Woodland Road BS8 1UB, Bristol conorhoughton.github.io pronouns: he / him

Nov. 30, 2024

Post-Doct Position in brain-inspired AI development at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)

by Kirst, ChrIstoph

Post-Doctoral Researcher at UCSF and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in brain inspired AI development – start date ASAP Position Description We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a three-year project within the Kirst lab at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) located in San Francisco and Berkeley, California, USA. The project is at the interface between brain-inspired AI-Development and energy efficient neuro-morphic hardware development. Start date is as soon as possible (date may be negotiable) and will last for approximately 36 months. The post-doctoral researcher will join a team of researchers at UCSF and LBNL to develop on a new brain inspired AI technology for fast long sequence processing with applications to neuroscience, neuro-prosthetics and well as edge computing applications, including analysis of large data streams form X-ray microscopy and spectroscopy performed at LBNL. The AI technology will be co-developed to run on energy efficient neuro-morphic hardware based on CMOS and superconducting electronics with teams at LBNL and University of Southern California. A mix of theoretical, algorithmic and AI development work is expected, as well as communicating closely with our hardware teams. We are interested in maintaining the rich diversity in our work teams and encourage applications from all interested candidates. Qualifications The ideal candidate will have a PhD, strong quantitative, dynamical systems, computational neuroscience, and machine learning skills, experience in developing AI models, and enthusiasm for advancing AI hardware technologies. The candidate should be creative, enjoy problem-solving, and developing new tools, and be prepared to collaborate within a larger team with diverse expertise. Appropriate background/training includes systems or engineering, physics, machine learning and data science, as well as computer science. Application Instructions Please send your motivation letter, CV with publication list, one-page personal research statement, and contact information of three referees, to with subject line “[CV-POSTDOC] <Your Name>” to christoph.kirst(a)ucsf.edu Job Type: 100% Work Location: In person or remote (within the USA) Funding: The project is a collaborative project funded by the Department of Energy's Advancements in Artificial Intelligence for Science program. Christoph Kirst Assistant Professor Department of Anatomy Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience University of California San Francisco Faculty Scientist Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Sandler Neuroscience Building 675 Nelson Rising Lane, Suite 514G San Francisco, 94158, CA, USA Phone: 415-502-7372 https://profiles.ucsf.edu/christoph.kirst [cid:5776af05-17bc-46c3-9061-4f3a4a9ee2c9]

Nov. 30, 2024

Re: 2024 Bonsai Developer Conference

by Joaquin Rapela

Reminder: Bonsai Developers Conference Next Week Dear all, We’re excited to remind you that the First Bonsai Developers Conference will take place next week, from Monday, December 2, to Friday, December 6, 2024, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM (GMT). The event will be held at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre in London, UK, and will also be accessible online via the following Zoom link: https://ucl.zoom.us/j/98727664572 You can find the program, schedule, and other details on the official conference website: https://conference.bonsai-rx.org/2024/ If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us at: conference(a)bonsai-rx.org We look forward to your participation! Best regards, Joaquin On Tue, Oct 22, 2024 at 05:27:20PM +0100, Joaquin Rapela via Comp-neuro wrote: > ⚠ Caution: External sender > > > Hello, > > We are excited to invite you to the 2024 Bonsai Developer Conference, taking > place from December 2nd to 4th, 2024, at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre in > London, UK. This event brings together neuroscience researchers, computational > scientists, and software engineers with a shared interest in the Bonsai visual > reactive programming language. > > The conference program and additional details can be found at > https://conference.bonsai-rx.org/2024/ > > About Bonsai > ------------ > > Bonsai https://bonsai-rx.org/ is an open-source reactive visual programming language > widely use for neuroscience experimental control. > > Differently from standard programming languages where control flow is specified > by composing sequences of instructions, and checking conditional loops > for the occurrence of events, in reactive languages https://introtorx.com/ > the control flow is specified by composing event streams. By placing asynchronous > data streams front and centre, it becomes much easier to succinctly build complex > programs manipulating hundreds of parallel data sources and controllers while > retaining interoperability and modularity. > > Bonsai is a visual programming language where programs are laid out graphically. > Each node represents a data stream, and edges represent input dependencies > between streams. Parameters can be manipulated dynamically and every stream can > be inspected at runtime. This graphical approach allows users with no programming experience > to create complex asynchronous programs, and experienced Bonsai users to very quickly > deploy and manage entire systems and applications. > > Bonsai is able to interface with a large number of experimental hardware > for neuroscience experimental control, allowing researchers to easily build > sophisticated experiments. > > We look forward to see you in London! > > Best regards, > > Goncalo Lopes g.lopes(a)neurogears.org > Nicholas Guilbeault n.guilbeault(a)ucl.ac.uk > Joaquin Rapela j.rapela(a)ucl.ac.uk > > _______________________________________________ > Comp-neuro mailing list -- comp-neuro(a)lists.cnsorg.org > Mailing list webpage (to subscribe or view archives): https://www.cnsorg.org/comp-neuro-mailing-list > > To contact admin/moderators, send an email to: comp-neuro-owner(a)lists.cnsorg.org > To unsubscribe, send an email to comp-neuro-leave(a)lists.cnsorg.org

Nov. 29, 2024

Announcing Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2025 (OCNC 2025)

by Erik De Schutter

The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 23th through July 10th, 2025 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://www.oist.jp/conference/ocnc-2025) only; January 1 - January 31, 2025. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance end of March. Like in preceding years, the 2025 OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international and local experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. For the first time we charge a modest tuition fee of 60,000JPY. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Lecturers: Erik De Schutter (OIST) Kenji Doya (OIST) Tomoki Fukai (OIST) Yukiko Goda (OIST) Bernd Kuhn (OIST) Alexander Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL, Switzerland) Lucy Palmer (University of Melbourne, Australia) Gerald Pao (OIST) Padmini Rangamani (University of California, San Diego, USA) Sam Reiter (OIST) Yu Takagi (National Institute of Informatics) Kazumasa Tanaka (OIST) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Jeff Wickens (OIST)

Nov. 28, 2024

Tenure-Track, Assistant/Associate Professor in Computational Neuroscience

by Kenneth Kishida

I’m very excited to announce a new recruitment effort in the Department of Translational Neuroscience at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. I’m chairing an inclusive and diverse search committee with the hopes of expanding computational neuroscience in our highly collaborative and supportive department. Please read more and repost this ad for a new tenure track (Asst/Assoc) faculty position. Please follow the link here: Computational Neuroscience Job Posting<https://emis.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1…> -- Kenneth T. Kishida, PhD (he/him) Associate Professor Wake Forest University School of Medicine Department of Translational Neuroscience Department of Neurosurgery Department of Biomedical Engineering Bowman Gray Center for Medical Education, 475 Vine St. Winston Salem, NC 27101 office: 336-716-0419 lab: 336-716-8537 email: kkishida(a)wakehealth.edu https://school.wakehealth.edu/Faculty/K/Ken-Kishida (viz: www.kishidalab.com<http://www.kishidalab.com> ) ________________________________ This electronic message is intended only for the use of the individual(s) and entity named as recipients in the message. If you are not an intended recipient of this message, please notify the sender immediately and delete the material from any computer. Do not deliver, distribute or copy this message, and do not disclose its contents or take any action in reliance on the information it contains. Thank you.

Nov. 27, 2024

GEM2025 - Conference on generative episodic memory - call for abstracts

by Vinita Samarasinghe

The DFG-funded research consortium “FOR 2812 – Constructing scenarios of the past” is proud to announce a *call for abstracts* for its biennial conference “/Generative Episodic Memory: Interdisciplinary perspectives from neuroscience, psychology and philosophy/” *GEM 202**5.* It will be held *in person* at the Ruhr University Bochum, Germany from 2^nd to 4^th June, 2025. For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025. Episodic memories are widely regarded as memories of personally experienced events. Early concepts about episodic memory were based on the storage model, according to which experiential content is preserved in memory and later retrieved. However, overwhelming empirical evidence suggests that the content of episodic memory is – at least to a certain degree – constructed in the act of remembering. Even though very few contemporary researchers would oppose this view of episodic memory as a generative process, it has not become the standard paradigm of empirical memory research. This is particularly true for studies of the neural correlates of episodic memory. Further hindering progress are large conceptual differences regarding episodic memory across different fields, such as neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology. This interdisciplinary conference therefore aims to bring together researchers from all relevant fields to advance the state of the art in the research on generative episodic memory. *Keynote speakers: * Ali Boyle (LSE); Neil Burgess (UCL); Iris Engelhard (U. Utrecht); Johannes Mahr (York U.); Jeremy Manning (Dartmouth) *Funding for early career researchers is available *(visit our ECR page <https://for2812.rub.de/gem2025/early_career_researcher_programs> for more details). *Abstract* submission deadline: 15.03.2025 Submission guidelines: Abstracts must be submitted in English and be no longer than 500 words. Submitted work must be original and unpublished and submitted electronically at https://www.conftool.net/gem202 <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>5/ <https://www.conftool.net/gem2023/>. Types of submissions: * Talk * Symposium: Must comprise 3 talks and be interdisciplinary in nature, i.e., talks must cover at least two of the following disciplines: computational neuroscience, philosophy, psychology, neuroscience. * Poster /*For more information please visit https://for2812.rub.de or contact Vinita Samarasinghe at for2812(a)rub.de*/ Kind regards, Vinita -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Nov. 27, 2024

Looking for a lead designer at Thinking About Thinking (educational neuroAI non-profit that organizes conferences)

by Ruairidh Battleday

Dear Mind, Brain, and AI researchers, We very much enjoyed meeting many of you at Thinking About Thinking <http://www.thinkingaboutthinking.org/> events this past year, with some still to come in Boston <http://www.algopreneurship.ai/>! We are an educational non-profit that holds open-access research conferences and Summits on foundational computational questions in cognitive science, neuroscience, and machine learning / AI. At Thinking About Thinking we are scaling up, aiming to run more, larger open-access events and beginning to produce extra content---podcasts, blogs, interviews, etc. As part of that process, we are looking for a lead designer (who would be paid on a per-hour basis, but be a full part of the ThAT team). It is very important to us to have someone that understands cognitive science, neuroscience, and AI to do the design work, as we are very keen on keeping these sets of concepts at our core. If you think you are that person, want to join an extremely fun team working at the cutting-edge of science and society, or know anyone that might, please do reach out! Many thanks for the attention, and all the best! Ruairidh and the Team -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD President Thinking About Thinking (www.thinkingaboutthinking.org) Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Nov. 26, 2024

CFP - 2025 IEEE International Conference on Advanced Robotics and Its Social Impacts (ARSO 2025)

by nagai.yukie＠mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Dear colleagues, 2025 IEEE International Conference on Advanced Robotics and Its Social Impacts (ARSO 2025) July 17th-19th, 2025, Osaka, Japan https://ieee-arso.org Advanced robots are expected to enter in promising applications in our future society and bring substantial impacts. The increasing implementation of AI-based components even broaden their fields of application. To ensure that these impacts are positively reflected, today, we need to extend views not only on technical aspects but also on social challenges that we might face, including safety, regulation, ethics, human factors, and philosophy. The topics of ARSO 2025 include, but are not limited to the following: • Human-robot interaction in physical & psychological aspects • Safety standards for advanced robots & autonomous systems • Legal and ethical issues for advanced robots • Impact of robotics on society, e.g. robot business, marketing & economic impact • Robotics for sustainability, climate change or civil aid • Advanced industrial robots for future manufacturing • Healthcare & medical applications • Rehabilitation and transfer robotics • Service & assistance applications • Entertainment & education robotics • Robotics & autonomous driving • Bio-inspired robotics • Soft and wearable robotics Important Dates: Submission of Organized Session Proposal: Jan. 15, 2025 Initial Paper Submission: Feb. 28, 2025 Workshop Proposal Submission: Feb. 28, 2025 Notification of Paper Acceptance: Apr. 28, 2025 Final Paper Submission: May 30, 2025 General Chairs: Minoru Asada, Japan Silvia Rossi, Italy Program Chairs: Kensuke Harada, Japan Emel Demircan, USA Astrid Weiss, Austria Best regards, Yuji Kawai and Yukie Nagai, Publicity Chairs of ARSO2025 — Yukie Nagai, Ph.D. Project Professor, The University of Tokyo nagai.yukie(a)mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp | https://developmental-robotics.jp CREST Cognitive Feelings: https://cognitive-feeling.jp CREST Cognitive Mirroring: https://cognitive-mirroring.org

Nov. 26, 2024

PhD Opportunity: Machine Learning Methods for Invariant Representations

by Georgios Exarchakis

Dear all, The *University of Bath* invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position in *Machine Learning*, as part of the prestigious *URSA competition*. This project focuses on developing *interpretable machine learning methods* for high-dimensional data, with an emphasis on recognizing symmetries and incorporating them into efficient, flexible algorithms. *Key Details* * *Supervisory Team*: Dr. Georgios Exarchakis & Prof. Michael Tipping * *Research Focus*: Interpretable and deep learning methods, feature learning, and invariant representations * *Applications*: Astronomy, quantum chemistry, medical imaging, computer vision, and more This PhD position offers the opportunity to work within a leading research environment, using state-of-the-art tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Scikit-Learn. The research outcomes have potential applications in diverse fields, and students are encouraged to bring creative and interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving. *Eligibility* Applicants should have a strong academic background in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, or related fields (First Class or Upper Second Honours or equivalent). A master’s degree is advantageous. Non-UK applicants must meet the English language requirements. *Funding* The studentship covers tuition fees, a stipend of *£19,237 p.a.*, and access to a training support budget for 3.5 years. For more information and details on how to apply, visit UniversityofBathPhDOpportunities <https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/faculty-of-science-ursa-phd-project-m…>, or send an email to Georgios Exarchakis at ge394(a)bath.ac.uk. Applications close on *December 6, 2024.* Best, Georgios* *

Nov. 25, 2024

Post-doc position at EPFL on Computational Visual Neuroscience

by Dimitri Van De Ville

Dear Comp-Neuro community, Kindly find a job ad for a post-doc position at EPFL on Computational Visual Neuroscience below. Best wishes, Dimitri — Post-Doctoral Researcher at EPFL on Computational Visual Neuroscience – start date ASAP Position Description We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a one-year (renewable) project within the MIP:Lab of the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) located at the Campus Biotech in Geneva, Switzerland. The project is at the interface between an industrial partner (Dandelion Science) and the MIP:Lab headed by Prof. Dimitri Van De Ville. Start date is as soon as possible (date may be negotiable) and will last for approximately 15 months. At the end of the postdoc, there will be an opportunity to join the company as an employee. The post-doctoral researcher will join a team of academic and industrial group members to work on new computational modeling frameworks for rapidly time-varying functional networks in late sensory and non-sensory cortex in the context of biofeedback-influenced video viewing. A mix of theoretical, algorithmic, and empirical work is expected, in collaboration with an industrial partner in the healthcare technology/AI field providing behavioral and neural (streaming M/EEG) data. Some first-hand behavioral and neural data (M/EEG) is also expected to be acquired in the M/EEG Platform at the Campus Biotech. We are interested in maintaining the rich diversity in our work teams and encourage applications from all interested candidates. The salary range at EPFL is competitive and the quality of living in Switzerland is outstanding. Qualifications The ideal candidate will have a PhD, strong quantitative, signal processing, and machine learning skills, data analytic expertise (Python and Matlab), and enthusiasm for broadly advancing the treatment of neurological disorders. Experience with neuroimaging is required, preferably with human subjects. The candidate should be creative, enjoy problem solving, and be prepared to collaborate within a larger team with diverse expertise. Experience in commercial biomedical development is also preferred. Appropriate background/training includes systems or engineering, physics, machine learning and data science, as well as cognitive neuroscience. Application Instructions Please send your motivation letter, CV with publication list, one-page personal research statement, and contact information of three referees, to with subject line “[CV-POSTDOC] <Your Name>” to dimitri.vandeville(a)epfl.ch Job Type: 100% Work Location: In person — Dimitri Van De Ville Professor, Fellow IEEE & EURASIP Neuro-X Institute EPFL - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne Professor, Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics University of Geneva Switzerland URL: http://miplab.epfl.ch/ Twitter: @dvdevill

Nov. 24, 2024

apply to ITCN at Penn

by Maria Neimark Geffen

The Computational Neuroscience Initiative <https://www.cni.upenn.edu/> at the University of Pennsylvania offers a new program for Interdisciplinary Training in Computational Neuroscience (ITCN) at the doctoral level. The goal of the ITCN is to train a new generation of scientists who will make quantitative links between properties of the brain and properties of the mind. ITCN trainees will learn to use computational methodology to interpret experimental results, build predictive models of brain function that inform the design of the experiments, and support an ever-growing list of applications from brain-machine interfaces in the clinic to cutting-edge forms of artificial intelligence. The ITCN brings together students and faculty <https://www.cni.upenn.edu/people> from Penn’s PhD programs in Neuroscience <https://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/> (Biomedical Graduate Studies, Perelman School of Medicine), Bioengineering <https://be.seas.upenn.edu/doctoral/> (School of Engineering and Applied Science), Physics <https://www.physics.upenn.edu/graduate/> (School of Arts and Sciences), and Psychology <https://psychology.sas.upenn.edu/graduate> (School of Arts and Sciences). To join the ITCN, students first apply to one of those "home" PhD programs. Once admitted, students then typically apply to the ITCN before starting classes in their first year. Those selected meet with the ITCN Advisory Committee, both individually and as a group, to develop individualized training plans that meet the goals and requirements of the ITCN and each student’s home program. These plans include coursework, research, and other activities that aim to build both expertise in computational neuroscience and a sense of community in the ITCN. Details are provided below. The ITCN embraces diversity and inclusion in their many forms, including welcoming students with a broad range of personal, professional, and academic backgrounds into both our training program and the field of computational neuroscience as a whole. *Application. *The application deadline is Dec. 1 for the Penn PhD programs! Prospective PhD students must first apply and be accepted into one of our participating graduate programs: Neuroscience <https://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/>, Bioengineering <https://be.seas.upenn.edu/doctoral/>, Physics <https://www.physics.upenn.edu/graduate/>, or Psychology <https://psychology.sas.upenn.edu/graduate> (PhD students admitted to other PhD programs at Penn may also be considered; see below for additional requirements). Students typically apply to the ITCN before starting classes in their first PhD year, although we will also consider applications from students in more advanced years who believe they will be able to meet our academic requirements. Selection into the ITCN does not require a background in computational neuroscience. Instead, we require: 1) a brief (~½ page) essay describing why you want to join the ITCN and how it would fit into your training and career plans; 2) written permission from your Graduate Chair (and, for MD-PhD or VMD-PhD students, the Director of your Combined Degree Program); and 3) if you are not in one of our four participating programs, descriptions of the funding source(s) and course and research requirements for your home PhD program. Please send your application materials, and/or any questions, to Vijay Balasubramanian <vijay(a)physics.upenn.edu>, Maria Geffen <mgeffen(a)pennmedicine.upenn.edu>, and/or Joshua Gold <jigold(a)pennmedicine.upenn.edu>.

Nov. 22, 2024

Allen Institute Modeling Software Workshop 2025 - and a brief survey

by Anton Arkhipov

Dear Colleagues, Join us at the Allen Institute Modeling Software Workshop<https://alleninstitute.org/events/2025-modeling-software-workshop/> on July 28-30, 2025 at the Allen Institute in Seattle, WA! And whether applying to the Workshop or not, please help us understand what the field needs by filling out this brief survey<https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=1pxmMn9zOUuL3daVESDT_M4…>. That will be very helpful to guide our work. About the Workshop This hands-on workshop focuses on building and simulating complex and heterogeneous network models grounded in real biological data. Participants will learn to use BMTK, SONATA, VND, our data, and models for simulating brain circuits. Applications<https://alleninstitute.submittable.com/submit/306603/2025-allen-institute-m…> are due March 15th, 2025! Selected applicants will be notified by May 1, 2025. Limited travel funding is available. We are looking forward to hearing from you. Best regards, Anton. Anton Arkhipov Investigator, Allen Institute antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org> alleninstitute.org<https://alleninstitute.org/> brain-map.org<https://portal.brain-map.org/>

Nov. 21, 2024

IMPRS for Language Sciences PhD Fellowships 2025

by Lam, Kevin

** IMPRS for Language Sciences PhD Fellowships 2025 ** The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Language Sciences is offering two fully-funded PhD Fellowship for four years (2025-2029) with a preferred start-date in September or October, 2025. The goal of the scheme is to enable young researchers to pursue interdisciplinary research projects in the language sciences, supervised by leading scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics and its partner institutes at the Radboud University -- the Centre for Language Studies and the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour. https://www.mpi.nl/ | https://www.ru.nl/cls | https://www.ru.nl/donders Find out more about the Fellowships and read first-hand accounts of our members: https://www.mpi.nl/imprs-phd-fellowships-2025 | https://www.mpi.nl/imprs The application deadline is 6 January, 2025. Thanks in advance. Best wishes from Nijmegen, Dr. Kevin Lam, Graduate School Coordinator http://www.mpi.nl/imprs | https://www.mpi.nl/people/lam-kevin

Nov. 21, 2024

Global Summit on Open Problems for AI. Museum of Science, Boston, 4-6th December.

by Battleday, Ruairidh

Global Summit on Open Problems for AI. Museum of Science, Boston, 4-6th December. What are the next set of challenges for AI algorithms? What are the open problems in regulation & application? We are most excited to announce the Algorithmic Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Summit on Open Problems for AI <http://www.algopreneurship.ai>. Join the USA’s leading AI researchers, policy makers, and entrepreneurs in this global Summit over three days of keynote talks, panels, and breakout sessions. Day 1 - Algorithms We ask what the fundamental challenges for developing AI algorithms are, as well as promising avenues for overcoming them. We’ll be hearing from Professor Aaron Courville (MILA), Professor Hidenori Tanaka (NTT & Harvard), Dr James Whittington (Oxford & Stanford & Zyphra), Dr Jonathan Richard Schwarz (Thomson Reuters), Dr Zi Wang (Google DeepMind) Panel on “Is this the end of Scale?” (Stanford, MIT, Kempner Institute Harvard, DeepMind, MosaicML, PillarVC) Panel on “How Should We Fund AI Research?” (Harvard Kempner Institute, Convergent Research, DeSciNYC, Advaita Capital, Flagship Pioneering) Day 2 - Ethics We ask what the fundamental ethical challenges and opportunities are for AI. Professor David Duvenaud (Toronto & Anthropic), Professor Alex "Sandy" Pentland (MIT), Dr William Casey King (Yale & Microsoft), Patricia Thaine (Private AI), Jurgita Miseviciute (Proton), Dr Aleks Jakulin (data.flowers) & Han Sheng Chia (Center for Global Development) Panel: Micro Ethics - What Can Individual Researchers Do for Ethical AI? Chair: Nicolay Hagen (NTNU) Panel institutions: Toronto, MIT, Harvard, Private AI, Anthropic, Context Fund Panel: Meso Ethics - What Can Organizations Do for Ethical AI? Chair: Professor Skyler Wang (McGill) Panel institutions: Microsoft Research, Northeastern University, Proton, Data.Flowers Panel: Macro Ethics - If AI is the answer, what is the question? Chair: Saima Fancy (Women in AI Ethics & Women in AI Governance) Panel institutions: McKinsey, Operation Hope AI Ethics Council, Center for Global Development, Academy Day 3 - Applications We ask what the fundamental challenges and opportunities are in applications for social good. Keynotes: AI for Science team (OpenAI), Dennis R. Mortensen (LaunchBrightly), Samuel Colvin (Pydantic), Professor Andreea Bobu (MIT), Professor Agata Lapedriza (Institute for Experiential AI), Dr Anna Litvak-Hinenzon (AL-Tech AI) Lightning talks: David Rose (LookOut), Albert Chen (Anago), Trevor Keith (Codapt), Waleed Atallah (Maco), Kachina Studer (Harvard/MIT), Dr Mireia Torello (AIKreate), Tanay Wakhare (Stealth) Expert session: AI & Medicine Professor Marzyeh Ghassemi (MIT), Professor Dan Nicolau Jr (Kings College London), Dr Alex Oshmyansky (Cost Price Drugs), Dr Clara-Lea Bonzel (Harvard), Anna Marie Wagner (DARPA & BOLD Corporation), Dr Salim Afshar (Harvard & RevealHealthtech), Thiri Shwesin Aung (Global Impact Assessment), Grigori Guitchounts (Flagship Pioneering) This should be an exciting and productive event, and we expect an audience of 400 of the USA’s best AI researchers and entrepreneurs, at student, early-stage, and full career levels. Student day tickets: $10 Early bird day: $20 Ruairidh <https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruairidh-battleday-648a2b65/>, James <https://www.jcrwhittington.com/>, and Dan <https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/dan-nicolau> Thinking About Thinking <https://www.thinkingaboutthinking.org/> -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD President Thinking About Thinking, Inc <https://thinkingaboutthinking.org> Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Nov. 20, 2024

PhD position - Memory - Neural Computation Group - Max Planck Institute CBS, Leipzig

by Andrej Bicanski

Dear colleagues, I am advertising a PhD position in computational neuroscience in my group (Neural Computation) - fully funded (3 years) - at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in Leipzig. The position is part of an international collaborative effort (4 labs) to test and develop further computational models of episodic and spatial memory by combining human intracranial electrophysiology and computational models. Specifically, the project will explore computational/neural mechanisms underlying cognitive maps, spatial (and episodic) memory, and navigation. The candidate will have two main tasks: 1. develop new and improve existing models, 2. co-develop an analysis pipeline for human single units. Prerequisites are outstanding records in an area relevant to neuroscience. A strong quantitative background in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science or engineering is also suitable (e.g., physics, mathematics, electrical engineering etc.). Excellent programming skills (Python, Matlab) are required. This project is part of an international collaboration with the Universities of Bonn (Prof. Lukas Kunz), Berlin (Prof. Richard Kempter), and Columbia (Prof. Josh Jacobs). Please direct potential candidates to the ad at: https://www.cbs.mpg.de/stellenmarkt/stellenangebote Reference: PhD17/24 The intended starting dates are as early as possible in 2025. Applications will be considered as long as the above advert is up. You can read more on the group here: https://www.cbs.mpg.de/psychology/neural-computation Best wishes, Andrej Bicanski -- Dr. Andrej Bicanski Neural Computation Group Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Stephanstrasse 1a, 04103 Leipzig, Germany Email: bicanski(a)cbs.mpg.de <mailto:bicanski@cbs.mpg.de> Tel.: +49 (0)341 9940197

Nov. 19, 2024

Abstract Submission for ICMNS 2025, June 17-20 in Barcelona, Spain now Open

by Alex Roxin

Dear all, We are happy to announce that *abstract submission* for the International Conference on Mathematical Neuroscience (ICMNS) 2025, to be held in Barcelona, Spain from the 17th to the 20th of June,* is now open*. Abstract submission will remain open until December 16th. The format for submission is a single abstract of plain text plus a pdf file of supporting information in any format you please, with a maximum extension of one page. Please find the link and more details regarding the submission process on the conference website https://www.crm.cat/international-conference-on-mathematical-neuroscience-i… We are also pleased to inform you that we will have three excellent keynote speakers: Tatyana Sharpee, Tatjana Tschumachenko and Misha Tsodyks, as well as eight exciting invited speakers whose names you will find on the website. We look forward to receiving your submissions and seeing you in Barcelona this coming June! best regards, The Organizing Committee: Toni Guillamon Gemma Huguet Ernest Montbrió Alex Roxin -- Alex Roxin Computational Neuroscience Group Centre de Recerca Matemàtica Campus de Bellaterra, Edifici C 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona) https://sites.google.com/site/alexanderroxin/home

Nov. 18, 2024

Fwd: AI Cluster Hiring of UT System Research Excellence Regents' Professorships at UTSA

by Dhireesha Kudithipudi

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), MATRIX AI Consortium, invites applications for the position of Full Professor / Associate Professor, to be appointed as a University of Texas System (UT System) Research Excellence Regents' Professor. Successful candidates will be part of a strategic Clustered & Connected Hiring Program (CCP) <https://www.utsa.edu/strategicplan/initiatives/research/strategic-hiring/cc…> focused on Artificial Intelligence, with an anticipated start date in the Fall of the 2025-26 academic year. The University of Texas System recently approved the creation of the Regents’ Research Excellence Program across its four Emerging Research Universities (ERUs), including UTSA. UT System has allocated $55 million across all four ERUs to fund the recruitment of research-active faculty to dramatically grow its national research prominence and federal funding opportunities. The positions open are in areas: 1. *Trustworthy AI/ML Algorithms (eg: neuro-inspired algorithms)* 2. *Neuromorphic AI Accelerators/Chips* 3. *Human-Centered AI* 4. *AI Ethics* The Regents Professors will be core members of the MATRIX Consortium, which is a central hub for 87 AI scientists, facilitating transdisciplinary research, fostering high-impact collaborations, and offering thought leadership and domain expertise to address the most challenging and complex problems in AI. Areas of interest include Trustworthy AI/ML Algorithms, Neuromorphic AI Accelerators, Human-centered AI, AI Ethics, all of which advance the research thrusts in the MATRIX. MATRIX strives for scientific excellence in developing holistic solutions for human well-being. The team has a successful track record in securing large collaborative grants that generated multiple centers, such as the NSF AI Partner Institute, two NSF EFRI BRAIDs, AFOSR COE in neuro-inspired AI, along with large collaborative projects in AI for healthcare. Apply here: https://zahr-prd-candidate-ada.utshare.utsystem.edu/psc/ZAHRPRDADA/EMPLOYEE… Best Regards Dhireesha Founding Director| MATRIX <https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fai.utsa.e…> AI Consortium & NUAI <https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nuail…> Research Lab Professor| McDermott Endowed Chair| ECE/CS| UTSA

Nov. 18, 2024

Neuroinformatics Cluster Hire at UIUC

by Vlasov, Yurii A

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

Nov. 18, 2024

[seminar.wwtns] World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 11:00 am EST| Chris Eliasmith, University of Waterloo

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Chris Eliasmith University of Waterloo on the topic of The algebra of cognition The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at *11:00 am EST * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *In recent years, my lab and others have demonstrated the value of vector symbolic algebras (VSAs) for capturing a wide variety of neural and behavioural results. In this talk I discuss the surprising and compelling variety of tasks and styles of reasoning that are well-suited to descriptions using a specific VSA. These tasks include path integration, navigation, Bayesian reasoning, sampling, memorization, and logical inference. The resulting spiking neural network models capture various hippocampal cell types (grid, place, border, etc.), behavioural errors, and a variety of observed neural dynamics. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

Nov. 17, 2024

1 Postdoc and 1 PhD position on predictive representations / dynamic RSA, CIMeC, Uni Trento, Italy

by Moritz Wurm

We are seeking for highly motivated candidates for 1 Postdoc and 1 PhD position in the Action Recognition and Concepts Group <https://www.cimec.unitn.it/en/929/action-recognition-and-concepts-group> at CIMeC (Center for Mind/Brain Sciences), University of Trento, Italy. The research project will focus on an MEG-based dynamic extension to representational similarity analysis (dynamic RSA <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-39355-y>) that we have recently developed in our lab to investigate predictive representations of dynamic events. We're looking for applicants who: • Have a strong drive to pursue a career in scientific research • Possess independent and critical thinking skills • Excel in collaborative teamwork • Have a background in cognitive neuroscience (preferably M/EEG or fMRI, MVPA/RSA) and strong programming skills (preferably Matlab, or Python) • Have experience in action / biological motion perception (ideally in generating point light displays or avatars) or in action execution At CIMeC, you'll have access to cutting-edge research facilities, such as: • A brand new MEGIN TRIUX neo MEG system • A 3T MRI Siemens Prisma • TMS, EEG, and combined TMS-EEG setups • Human intracranial stereotactic EEG • Eye-tracking systems • Kinematic recording systems All equipment is dedicated 100% to research purposes, providing you with the ideal environment for testing your research questions. As a member of our lab and of the wider CIMeC community, you will be part of an international community of students and researchers in a vibrant scientific environment. The working language is English. Our lab enjoys numerous international collaborations, and we offer ample opportunities to engage with the broader scientific community through conferences, workshops, and international meetings, supported by research funding attracted by our lab. Living in Trentino offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. Situated among stunning landscapes between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, it provides a serene setting where you can appreciate nature alongside various cultural activities and sports. Trentino is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, offering an exceptional quality of life alongside your academic pursuits. The Postdoc position will be for 2 years (potentially extendable), start date is flexible but ideally in spring/summer 2025. The PhD position will start in fall 2025, the deadline to apply will be in June 2025 (find more information on CIMeC’s doctoral program here <https://www.unitn.it/drcimec/>). If you are thrilled to contribute to our research in cognitive neuroscience, please send an informal inquiry, including a CV and a brief statement of research interests, to moritz.wurm(a)unitn.it <mailto:moritz.wurm@unitn.it>. We look forward to hearing from you! Best wishes, Moritz Wurm

Nov. 17, 2024

[Meetings] BrainModesBilbao 2024 - Free streaming of the conference

by Asier Erramuzpe Aliaga

On behalf of the Organization Committee of BrainModesBilbao Since its inception in 2007, the BrainModes conference series has been a beacon for the neuroscience community, drawing attention to the intricate dynamics of brain functionality. These topics are at the forefront of hashtag#neuroscience research, offering novel insights into how the brain operates as a complex system. By focusing on these areas BrainModesBilbao2024 will serve as a vibrant platform for both emerging and established researchers, clinicians, and scholars to exchange ideas, consolidate collaborations, and discuss the latest advancements in the field. https://brainmodes-bilbao-2024.eu/ FREE streaming YouTube! (no registration needed) Nov. 18 - 21, 2024 Check the program below Live-streaming links: 🔗 Monday November 18 (PM) https://lnkd.in/d63r2hXA 🔗 Tuesday November 19 (AM) https://lnkd.in/disMj94P (PM) https://lnkd.in/dXxVFbPp 🔗 Wednesday November 20 (AM) https://lnkd.in/dbvG9fdu (PM) https://lnkd.in/dk6gArpp 🔗 Thursday November 21 (AM) https://lnkd.in/dCzkTeAT This free streaming is made possible by the support of the Euskampus Fundazioa. #BrainModesBilbao plenary speakers: ▪️ Petra Ritter, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin ▪️ Daniel Margulies, CNRS ▪️ Peter A. Robinson, University of Sydney ▪️ Danielle Kurtin, Imperial College London ▪️ Ana Solodkin, The University of Texas at Dallas ▪️ Alex Fornito, Monash University ▪️ Jil Meier, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin ▪️ Jakub Vohryzek, Universitat Pompeu Fabra ▪️ Hanna Honcamp, University of Maastricht ▪️ Alessandro Gozzi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia ▪️ Marta Xavier, University of Lisbon ▪️ Gustavo Deco, Universitat Pompeu Fabra ▪️ Giulia Petri, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL ▪️ Maurizio Corbetta, Università degli Studi di Padova ▪️ Izaro Fernandez Iriondo, IIS Biobizkaia ▪️ Viktor Jirsa, INS - Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes ▪️ Sophia Forsberg Tibblin, hashtag#BCC Basque Center on Cognition ▪️ Joana Cabral, ICVS - Life and Health Sciences Research Institute ▪️ Andrés Lozano, University of Toronto ▪️ Diego Vidaurre, Aarhus University ▪️ Marilyn Gatica, University of London ▪️ Adrián Ponce Alvarez, CFIS - UPC (Polytechnic University of Catalonia) Organizers: ▪️Wael El-Deredy ▪️Joana Cabral ▪️Adolfo LOPEZ DE MUNAIN ARREGUI ▪️Jesus Cortes Supported by Computational Neuroimaging Lab Bilbao Sponsored by Biometriks Health, BrainModes Bilbao 2024 is hosted by Cruces University Hospital. Participating institutions: ▪️Osakidetza ▪️Hospital Universitario Cruces - OSI Ezkerraldea Enkarterri Cruces ▪️IIS Biobizkaia ▪️Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea

Nov. 17, 2024

CALL FOR PAPERS - BIOSIGNALS 2025 - DECIDE SPECIAL SESSION IN PERSONALIZED BRAIN MEDICINE

by Vassilis Cutsuridis

Dear colleagues, You are invited to submit a paper to DECIDE 2025 Special Session<https://biostec.scitevents.org/DECIDE.aspx> hosted by the BIOSIGNALS 2025<https://biosignals.scitevents.org/Home.aspx> conference to be held on 20-22 February 2025 in Porto, Portugal Title: Data- and Theory-Driven Approaches in Personalized Brain Medicine: from Diagnosis to Treatment (DECIDE) Scope: Deciding the right diagnosis, the best treatment and predicting the evolution of the disease is of paramount importance in personalized medicine. Diseases are dynamic and very heterogeneous. Etiologies are complex and often several hypotheses are needed to explain their pathogenesis. This is because studies carried out isolate the effects of a single mechanism and not the interaction of many mechanisms. This leads to a set of conflicting results difficult to interpret. Data-driven (ML/DL) and theory driven (Dynamical models) approaches dealing with diverse data are increasingly used in medicine. Bridging the gap between data- and theory-driven approaches is the central theme of the special session. Real progress in personalized medicine can only be made via such cross-disciplinary interactions. Topics of interest Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: * Computational/mathematical models of drug and stimulation treatments and therapies * Data processing, image and signal reconstruction and enhancement and cross-modality synthesis * Development of a culture of mathematical and computational modelling of brain diseases that will benefit those in clinical practice * Extraction of biomarkers from ‘omics’, signal and imaging data * Machine learning algorithms for prediction of disease evolution * Machine learning algorithms in disease detection and diagnosis * Multi-scale, multi-level models of disease understanding * Translation research on the dynamics of diseases into treatments for age related illnesses Important Dates Paper Submission: December 18, 2024 Authors Notification: January 14, 2025 Camera Ready and Registration: January 22, 2025 Publications Extensions of selected papers will be hosted in a Cognitive Computation journal (Springer-Nature)<https://link.springer.com/journal/12559> special issue organized by the event organizers. Kind regards, Vassilis --- Dr Vassilis Cutsuridis Associate Professor in Computer Science School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, UK, PL4 8AA Email: vassilis.cutsuridis(a)plymouth.ac.uk Web: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/staff/vassilis-cutsuridis ________________________________ [https://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, University of Plymouth accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. University of Plymouth 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.

Nov. 15, 2024

[Meetings] 2025 Nengo Summer School Call For Applications

by Michael Furlong

Dear colleagues, [All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce our 10th annual Nengo summer school on large-scale brain modelling and neuromorphic computing. This two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Summer school participants will be given on-site access to neuromorphic hardware and will learn to run high-level applications using Nengo! More generally, Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun, which includes spiking deep learning, reinforcement learning, adaptive motor control, and cognitive control networks. For a look at the last in-person summer school, check out this short video: https://youtu.be/nFYTqieEnSY We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. ***Application Deadline: February 1, 2025*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, modelling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: * interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware (e.g. BrainDrop, SpiNNaker) * build perceptual, motor, and sophisticated cognitive models using spiking neurons * model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data * use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model  * integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models * interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems * implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models * and much more… Date and Location: June 1st to June 13th, 2025 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summer-school, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Michael Furlong (michael.furlong(a)uwaterloo.ca) The school is partly supported by ABR, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

Nov. 15, 2024