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BBSRC MIBTP PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience at Leicester

by Jian Liu

Three fully-funded BBSRC MIBTP PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience are available at the Centre for Systems Neuroscience, the University of Leicester (UK). To apply, please visit: https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/funded-opportunities/bbsrc-mibtp <https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fle.ac.uk%2Fstudy%2Fresearch-degr…> https://sites.google.com/site/jiankliu/join-us *The application deadline is 12 January 2020.* *1. Neuronal coupling across spatiotemporal scales and dimensions of cortical population activity* * Dr. Michael Okun and Dr. Jian Liu, CSN/NPB, University of Leicester* https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/neuronal-coupling-across-spatiotempor… The human cortex is the most complex known system. It is responsible for a vast range of sensorimotor, decision making, and other cognitive abilities of humans and other mammals. The activity of cortical neuronal networks is organised across multiple spatiotemporal scales, and remains poorly understood. Our laboratory is particularly interested in the relationship between the activity of an individual neuron and of the larger networks within which the neuron is embedded (Lewis, 2015). For example, we have recently compared the coupling between neurons and their local network across an extensive range of timescales, finding major timescale-dependent distinctions, suggestive of different mechanisms regulating cortical activity on different timescales (Okun et al., 2019). We use recordings using next-generation high-density silicon probes for data collection (Jun et al., 2017) and advanced computational methods for their analysis. There are several computational projects available in the above research area, relying on data we are collecting in the laboratory as part of ongoing projects, as well as on publicly available datasets. The projects are suitable for students with a background in exact sciences or computer science and programming. *2. Decoding movement kinematics from subpopulations of motor cortex neurons* * Dr. Todor Gerdjikov and Dr. Jian Liu, CSN/NPB, University of Leicester* https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/decoding-movement-kinematics-from-sub… The purpose of the current project is to investigate novel approaches for decoding movement parameters from neural data acquired from morphologically distinct motor cortex neurons. Using computational approaches we will investigate the relationship between forelimb movement kinetics and neural activity in subpopulations of output-defined motor cortex neurons. Firstly, we will link activity in discrete output-defined M1 neuronal populations to movement parameters in rats trained in a skilled reaching task. This aspect of the work will rely on modern viral approaches to separately tag neurons belonging to different projections and record their activity in behaving rats using fibre photometry and/or extracellular neurophysiology. Computational approaches such as machine learning and neural network modelling will be used to decode kinematics derived from movement data. A second aspect of the work will involve causal experiments where we will use optogenetics to selectively ‘turn off’ the activity of discrete projections. We will investigate how these manipulations affect fine motor control in behaving rats to causally tease apart the contribution of each projection to motor control. *3. Towards a functional model for associate learning and memory formation* * Dr. Jian Liu and Professor Rodrigo Quian Quiroga, CSN/NPB, University of Leicester* https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/towards-a-functional-model-for-associ… This project aims to study the most up-to-date experimental data regarding single-neuron and network learning and coding in humans, with the expectation that a functional model could be established thereon. If possible, this model shall be not just biologically descriptive but also computationally implementable, as the stimulation protocol is based on the natural scenes of visual and auditory scenes that are beyond the simple protocols. This project involves data analysis where the data of human recordings will be provided by local researchers at our Centre. We will have access to the data of single-cell hippocampal recordings during memory and learning tasks of human subjects under the natural stimulations. Based on these data, we will draw a hypothesised theoretical model that is plausible for these new sets of experimental data as well as for other related published results. Furthermore, designs of new experiments based on the theoretical predictions shall also be made such that the model could be experimentally testified or falsified.

Dec. 12, 2019

Postdoc (3 yrs) in dynamical reconfigurations of neural populations during movement

by Mark Humphries

A 3 year postdoc post is available in the lab of Prof Mark Humphries, at the University of Nottingham (UK) In this project, our aim is to test the overarching hypothesis that movement transitions are encoded by the same neural population reconfiguring its joint activity, for both rhythmic and discrete movements. We will tackle this question by developing new computational algorithms for dynamic systems, and applying them to newly-available population recordings during rhythmic movement transitions in Aplysia and discrete arm movement transitions in monkeys, The Humphries’ group researches fundamental insights into how the joint activity of neurons encodes information about and actions in the world. For more see: https://www.humphries-lab.org Queries: mark.humphries(a)nottingham.ac.uk Deadline: 10th January 2020 Full details, and to apply: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/SCI182819X1 Professor Mark Humphries | MRC Senior non-Clinical Fellow | Chair in Computational Neuroscience Lab: humphries-lab.org<https://www.humphries-lab.org/> Twitter: @markdhumphries Public blog: https://medium.com/the-spike 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.

Dec. 12, 2019

Postdoc position at CNRS/Inserm

by James Bonaiuto

Dear all, I'd like to announce the following postdoctoral position on the role of oscillations in brain communication and motor behavior: This position is available for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher in Lyon, France, at the Lyon Neuroscience Research Center (CRNL) and at the Institute for Cognitives Sciences Marc Jeannerod (ISCMJ) under the direction of Mathilde Bonnefond, Ph.D and James Bonaiuto, PhD. The position is funded for 7 months and 2 years by two grants from the European Research Council (n°716862 and n°864550 respectively). The project is aimed at determining the role 1) of brain oscillations at different frequencies in brain communication and 2) of beta bursts in motor behavior. The candidate will use cutting edge techniques in both high precision magnetoencephalography (MEG) and high resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI, 3.0 T Siemens scanner) with healthy human volunteers. The post-doctoral fellow will: • develop and optimize the analysis of laminar level source signals as well as cortico-cortical functional connectivity applied to oscillatory activities. • analyze data from an fMRI experiment aiming at optimizing the analysis of MEG data for each participant. • analyze the relationship between three-dimensional movement kinematics and beta burst activity • synthesize results, write reports and scientific articles. The postdoctoral fellow will work together with a research assistant whose involvement in MEG/fMRI recording will be limited. Enthusiastic and self-motivated candidates are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will benefit from structured mentoring support and opportunities for travel and presentation at national meetings. The CRNL and ISCMJ are multidisciplinary research institutes offering a vibrant working atmosphere in an international environment with multiple opportunities for seminars, workshops and methodological clubs. *Expected starting date*: Mid-February 2018 the earliest, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. *Job Requirements: * * [Mandatory] Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience, Engineering or related field * [Mandatory] Autonomy in programming in MATLAB or Python * [Mandatory] Experience in using imaging analysis software (MNE, SPM, Fieldtrip, FSL, BrainVisa ...) * Knowledge of brain oscillations and signal processing * Experience with computer vision and analysis of movement kinematics is a plus * Fluency and solid writing skills in English are expected. French is absolutely not a requirement. *How to Apply: * Please send your application to BraindynMobeta(a)gmail.com with the following information: -CV including a brief (1/2 page) summary of previous research -Short letter of motivation describing research interests -Name of two colleagues who could provide a recommendation Please indicate "Post-doc application Braindyn Mobeta" as the subject of your email. James Bonaiuto Institut des Sciences Cognitives Marc Jeannerod 67 Bd Pinel <https://maps.google.com/?q=67+Bd+Pinel&entry=gmail&source=g>, 69675, Bron Cedex, France james.bonaiuto(a)isc.cnrs.fr

Dec. 11, 2019

[jobs] Neural Network models for language and interactive robots

by Wermter, Stefan

The Department of Informatics, Institute of Knowledge Technology, invites applications for multiple positions as RESEARCH ASSOCIATES (Postdocs and PhD Students) in the context of the project CROSSMODAL LEARNING: Neural network models for language and interactive robots. Positions commence from January 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter and are in accordance with Section 28 subsection 3 of the Hamburg higher education act (Hamburgisches Hochschulgesetz, HmbHG) on SALARY LEVEL 13 TV-L. These are fixed-term contracts in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG). The term is fixed for up to 4 years until 31st of December 2023. The full-time positions call for 39 hours per week. Responsibilities: Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications. Specific Duties: Duties in the project include the design, development and evaluation of neurocognitive models of crossmodal language learning as well as neurorobotic models for crossmodal joint attention and social interaction. The overall project aims to deepen interdisciplinary research between computer science, neuroscience, and psychology in order to set up collaborative research with a focus on human-robot-collaboration, artificial intelligence, neuroscience and psychology while focusing on the topic of cross-modal learning. The long-term challenge is to understand the neural, cognitive and computational evidence of cross-modal learning and to use this understanding for (1) better analyzing human performance with cross-modal correspondence and (2) building effective cross-modal computational and robot systems. Requirements: A university degree in a relevant subject. For doctoral positions, academic degree of MSc in computer science, computer engineering or similar. For post-doctoral positions, a doctorate, or equivalently the experience of more than three years of doctoral studies plus publications in the area of Intelligent Systems are required. The degree must qualify the post holder to carry out the above-mentioned duties. Programming skills in some of Python, C, ROS, Tensorflow or PyTorch are required. Your demonstrated research interests should be in some of the areas of Intelligent Systems (e.g. Neural Networks, Robotics, Machine Learning, Speech, Vision, or Affective Processing). International publication experience is expected. Very good communication skills in English are expected. The University aims to increase the number of women in research and teaching and explicitly encourages qualified women to apply. Equally qualified female applicants will receive preference in accordance with the Hamburg act on gender equality (Hamburgisches Gleichstellungsgesetz, HmbGleiG). Qualified disabled candidates or applicants with equivalent status receive preference in the application process. As a University of Excellence, Universität Hamburg is one of the strongest research universities in Germany. As a flagship university in the greater Hamburg region, it nurtures innovative, cooperative contacts to partners within and outside academia. It also provides and promotes sustainable education, knowledge, and knowledge exchange locally, nationally, and internationally. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Stefan Wermter or consult our website at: https://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/ Applications should include a cover letter, a tabular curriculum vitae, pdf of best publications, and copies of degree certificate(s). Please send applications by 15.01.2020 or until the post gets filled to Ms Katja Koesters (katja.koesters(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de) in a single pdf document. *********************************************** Professor Dr. Stefan Wermter Director of Knowledge Technology Department of Informatics University of Hamburg Vogt-Koelln-Str. 30 22527 Hamburg, Germany Email: wermter AT informatik.uni-hamburg.de https://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/WTM/ ***********************************************

Dec. 10, 2019

Fully funded PhD position: interdisciplinary work on machine/deep learning and visual cognitive neuroscience

by Tim Kietzmann

Dear all, I am hiring a graduate student to join our group at the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, NL. Please spread the word, or consider applying if you are interested in working with us on machine/deep learning and visual cognitive neuroscience. - 40 hours per week - Maximum gross monthly salary: € 2,972 - Up to four years, fully funded - Application deadline: 15 December 2019 Please find more details on the job post here: https://www.ru.nl/werken-bij/vacature/details-vacature/?recid=1072356 Details on our work can be found here: http://www.timkietzmann.de Best wishes Tim __________________________________ *Dr. rer. nat. Tim C Kietzmann* Assistant Professor Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour DCC Department for Artificial Intelligence Radboud University, NL Senior Research Associate, Graduate Supervisor MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit University of Cambridge Web: http://www.timkietzmann.de Email: t.kietzmann(a)donders.ru.nl Twitter: @timkietzmann

Dec. 10, 2019

PhD position at Tel Aviv University: Enhancing motor learning with computational scaffolding

by Jason Friedman

A funded PhD position is available at Tel Aviv University in the Movement Sciences lab with Dr. Jason Friedman, in the field of human motor control, on the topic of enhancing motor learning. The PhD will be part of a larger collaborative project with Prof. Helge Ritter from Bielefeld University, Germany, where they investigate manual intelligence of both humans and robots. In this project, we will use a technique called computational scaffolding in order to speed up the process of motor learning. In this technique, a temporary structure (scaffold) is provided during the learning process and slowly removed as learning takes place. We will use this technique to individualize and enhance the motor learning process in two applications – learning how to play the piano and learning a new swimming stroke. The student will be involved in all aspects of the project, included running experiments, recording and analyzing movement data, applying motor guidance for enhancing learning, and active collaboration with our partners. Students with a background in Motor Control, Physical Therapy, Neuroscience, Psychology, Physics, Computer Science, Biomedical engineering or related areas are encouraged to apply. Programming experience in Python or other languages, and a musical background is an advantage. Please contact Dr. Friedman (jason(a)tau.ac.il) with a CV for further information.

Dec. 10, 2019

Call for Applications - 2020 Nengo Summer School

by Peter Blouw

[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 7th 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 Loihi, Intel’s neuromorphic research chip [1], and will learn to run high-level applications on Loihi 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 [2], which includes spiking deep learning, reinforcement learning, adaptive motor control, and cognitive control networks. For a look at a recent summer school, check out this short video: https://goo.gl/4tVUkQ <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwtYgBB2N6I&t=1s> We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. [1] Davies, et al. (2018). Loihi: A neuromorphic manycore processor with on-chip learning. IEEE Micro. Vol. 38 no. 1 pp. 82-99. [ https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8259423] [2] Eliasmith, C., Stewart T. C., Choo X., Bekolay T., DeWolf T., Tang Y., Rasmussen, D. (2012). A large-scale model of the functioning brain. Science. Vol. 338 no. 6111 pp. 1202-1205. DOI: 10.1126/science.1225266. [ http://compneuro.uwaterloo.ca/files/publications/eliasmith.2012.pdf] ***Application Deadline: February 15, 2020*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on building neuromorphic applications, modeling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: - interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware (e.g. Loihi, SpiNNaker, BrainDrop) - interface Nengo with (spiking and normal) cameras and robotic systems - integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models - implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models - 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 - and much more… Date and Location: June 7th to June 19th, 2020 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school/, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form. We ask that you provide a short description of a possible project, and to briefly indicate how this project might make use of the tools and methods that the summer school will be covering, as listed above. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Peter Blouw (peter.blouw(a)appliedbrainresearch.com) The school is partially supported by Applied Brain Research, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

Dec. 9, 2019

NEURONUS 2020 IBRO Neuroscience Forum (24-26 April 2020, Krakow, Poland)

by Michał Zaręba

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS and REGISTRATION for NEURONUS 2020 IBRO Neuroscience Forum (24-26 April 2020, Krakow, Poland) are now OPEN! More information and the application forms can be found on our website: http://neuronusforum.pl/. With prominent speakers and an unique atmosphere of one of the oldest and most beautiful Polish cities, NEURONUS IBRO Neuroscience Forums have established themselves in the European calendar of scientific events as a platform for communication between scientists from different fields of neuroscience. The program of the conference consists of numerous sessions on biological, cognitive, computational and medical aspects of neuroscience, creating a dynamic environment for sharing knowledge. The schedule of the meeting is further complemented with lectures by invited guests, and we invest a lot of effort to attract as influential neuroscientists as possible. This year’s keynote speakers include: - Karl Friston (University College London, the UK) - Pico Caroni (University of Basel, Switzerland) - Karin Roelofs (Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands) - Alejandro Schinder (Leloir Institute, Buenos Aires, Argentina) - Adam Hampshire (Imperial College London, the UK) - Dayu Lin (New York University School of Medicine, the USA) Furthermore, a special panel concerning the Future of Neuroscience will be held. So far, we have confirmed participation of two pioneering researchers: - Viktor Jirsa (Aix-Marseille University, France) - Dominik Paquet (Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany) During the upcoming 11th edition of the conference, we will traditionally continue to put emphasis on development of early-career researchers. The main purpose of this event is to provide means for both young and experienced neuroscientists to share the latest discoveries, knowledge and experience in neuroscience, as well as make valuable contacts with scientists representing various fields of neurobiology. We actively promote young scientists through preferentially allocating oral presentations of their experimental results. We strongly encourage you to join this special initiative, and hope to see you in the pleasant spring scenery of Krakow! On behalf of the Organising Committee, Michał Zaręba

Dec. 9, 2019

Openings for Machine Learning Engineer / Healthcare Data Analyst / Neural Engineer (multiple levels)

by Zanos, Theodoros

The Neural and Data Science Lab at the Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research is currently recruiting for a Machine Learning Engineer / Healthcare Data Analyst / Neural Engineer (multiple levels). The lab focuses on data analysis and machine learning methods to develop algorithms that will power the next generation bioelectronic medicine devices to enable early diagnosis, disease severity assessment and personalization and adaptability of a therapy. The specific opening is part of our lab's ongoing efforts to gain actionable insights into advanced diagnostics and healthcare processes to improve the quality of care and enhance the patient experience. The successful candidate will lead cutting edge projects in healthcare data analytics, having access to state-of-the-art computing power (both on-prem and cloud-based) and access to enormous amounts of data from one of the largest health systems in the world. They will collect, organize and analyze data from various sources, collaborate with physicians and other research staff and publish and present data in a timely manner. They will also work collaboratively with other investigators to facilitate their scientific research and training. Furthermore, they will participate in various types of institute and community activities and may apply for grant funding and/or patents as appropriate. Required Qualifications/Skills - Graduate-level degree in electrical/biomedical engineering, computer science, or related fields - Fluent programming in Python and Matlab - Experience with scientific packages in Python: Numpy, Scipy, Pandas, Matplotlib - Background in machine learning: basic ML concepts, training, and evaluation of model Preferred Skills - Experience implementing custom ML models using Tensorflow - Worked both on Windows and Linux - Authored/co-authored research papers and/or scientific abstracts - Experience with various signal processing methods To apply, please send a cover letter describing your qualifications and an academic CV to tzanos at northwell.edu and include Machine Learning Engineer / Healthcare Data Analyst / Neural Engineer in the subject heading. Work Visa Sponsorship is available. Theodoros Zanos, PhD Assistant Professor Head, Neural & Data Science Lab www.neuraldatascience.org<http://www.neuraldatascience.org/> Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Room 1257 The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine Phone: +1-516-562-0484 Email: tzanos(a)northwell.edu<mailto:tzanos@northwell.edu> 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. 9, 2019

two post-doc positions at the University of Bristol

by Jeffrey Bowers

Please find links two RA (postdoc) positions to join the ERC project "Generalisation in Mind and Machine" at University of Bristol, UK. Also, here is a link to our lab page: https://mindandmachine.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/ Feel free to email me if you have any questions, Jeff https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BXD841/senior-research-associate https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BXF540/erc-research-associate Jeffrey Bowers School of Experimental Psychology University of Bristol Personal website: https://jeffbowers.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/ ERC lab website: https://mindandmachine.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/

Dec. 9, 2019