- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Sattelite event Biologically Plausible Learning at CCN’2025 in Amsterdam

by Sander Bohte

We invite participation and contributed posters to the sattelite event Biologically Plausible Learning at CCN’2025. Where: Amsterdam, The Netherlands. What: talks, posters, discussions, drinks When: August 11th, 15:00-18:00h local time. Link for registration: https://sites.google.com/bohte.com/ccn25-biolearning-satevent/home While the brain clearly is able to apply credit assignment, optimizing the wiring and neural properties to better behave in an ever-changing world, the underlying mechanism is an active topic of research. This workshop aims to bring together researchers working on neural learning algorithms that have increased biological plausibility, such as local approximations of error-backpropagation and/or alternative learning schemes that are compatible with what is known about learning in the brain. A select set of invited speakers will present their work, in addition to contributed posters. The aim is to highlight current developments and state-of-the-art, and also limitations, targeting both computational and theoretical neuroscientists working on the edge of AI, and vice versa. Speakers: Guillaume Bellec (TU Wien) Johanni Brea (EPFL) Bojian Yin (TU Eindhoven) Raoul-Martin Memmesheimer (U. Bonn). Contributed posters are sollicited with deadline June 8th, sent by email to ccn2025(a)bohte.com <mailto:ccn2025@bohte.com>. The organizers: Marcel van Gerven (Radboud University Nijmegen) Sander M Bohté (CWI and University of Amsterdam) For more information: see https://sites.google.com/bohte.com/ccn25-biolearning-satevent/home

May 27, 2025

Comp-Neuro/Neurotech/NeuroAI summer school in Northern Ireland

by O'Donnell, Cian

We are delighted to invite you to apply for the 5th Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI (CN³) Summer School, taking place from 25 August to 1 September 2025 at Ulster University, Derry~Londonderry, UK. A hybrid format is available, allowing participation either in-person or online. This summer school offers a unique, immersive experience for students, early-career researchers, and professionals interested in the intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and neurotechnology. Organised by the Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Derry~Londonderry, this summer school provides interdisciplinary training at the intersection of neuroscience and AI. The programme is designed to equip participants with both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in emerging neurotechnologies. Key Highlights: * Lectures by international experts in computational neuroscience and AI * Practical workshops in Python, MATLAB, and neuro-modelling tools * Sessions on brain-computer interfaces, cognitive robotics, neuromorphic computing, and more * Opportunities to present and discuss research * Networking with global peers and experts * Exposure to entrepreneurship in neurotechnology and translational research The summer school is ideal for: * Final-year undergraduate students * MSc and PhD students * Postdoctoral researchers * Industry professionals seeking cross-disciplinary knowledge Application Deadlines: * In-person (visa-required): 15 June 2025 * In-person (non-visa): 15 July 2025 * Online participation: 31 July 2025 Details and registration instructions can be found at: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/conference/isrc-cn3-summer-school Best, Cian O’Donnell, KongFatt Wong-Lin, Saugat Bhattacharyya 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

May 27, 2025

PhD opportunity at Health Data Science, Swansea, UK

by Vesna Vuksanovic

Dear all I have a PhD position open in Swansea, UK. The student will be working at the intersection of computational neuroimaging and clinical applications. The focus is on how to integrate multiple sources of data to model brain networks in a medical condition that affects the central nervous system. Please see more details here: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/postgraduate/scholarships/research/medical-stdavi… Feel free to get in contact informally, and please share with those who might be interested. Best wishes, Vesna ____________________________ Vesna Vuksanovic, PhD Programme Lead, MSc Health Data Science Senior Lecturer Health Data Science _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Swansea University Medical School Data Science Building Office DS04 1st Floor Tel. +44(0)1792 60 2212 Web: vesna-vuksanovic<https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/vesna.vuksanovic/>

May 27, 2025

Python Package Release: Echo State Network 1.0.0

by Fabrizio Damicelli

Dear Community, I'd like to announce the new release (version 1.0.0) of the Python Package "echoes": Machine Learning with Echo State Networks, a scikit-learn compatible package. Code Repository: https://github.com/fabridamicelli/echoes Especially in the realms of "Biologically-inspired Neural Networks", "Shallow Learning" and "Recurrent Neural Networks" in general. A few interesting features: - Installation and getting started is easy: `pip install echoes` * API follows scikit-learn standard (eg fit/predict). - It is light-weight and fast (`numba` accelerated), run your experiments on a laptop - Flexible and customizable, e.g. use arbitrary connectivity, add custom activations, visualize neurons activity, etc. * Example notebooks: https://github.com/fabridamicelli/echoes/tree/master/examples/notebooks - Documentation: https://fabridamicelli.github.io/echoes/ As of today the package registers already ~40K total downloads, ~600/month (pypi.org) and has been used already in a few research projects: - Hadaeghi et. al. (2021) Spatio-temporal feature learning with reservoir computing for T-cell segmentation in live-cell Ca2+ fluorescence microscopy: www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-87607-y#Sec4 - Fakhar et. al. (2022) Causal Influences Decouple From Their Underlying Network Structure In Echo State Networks: arxiv.org/abs/2205.11947 - Damicelli et.al. (2021) Brain Connectivity meets Reservoir Computing: www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.01.22.427750v1.abstract<http://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.01.22.427750v1.abstract> Check it out and any feedback/suggestions/bug reports are more than welcome (simply open an issue: https://github.com/fabridamicelli/echoes/issues) All the best, Fabrizio

May 26, 2025

World wide VVTNS series (fifth season): Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 11:00 am EDT| Nischal Mainali, ELSC, The Hebrew 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 Nischal Mainali ELSC, The Hebrew University Mathematical regularities of irregular hippocampus place codes The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *Measurements from hippocampal place cells in small enclosures have led classical view of highly stereotyped neural tuning functions with smooth, unimodal tuning fields that uniformly tile the environment. However, recent experiments conducted in large spaces across multiple species have revealed a much more irregular neural code than suggested by the classical view. Indeed, place cells in large environments typically fire in multiple locations, and the multiple firing fields of individual cells, as well as those of the entire population, vary considerably in size and shape. We recently showed that a simple mathematical model, wherein firing fields are generated by thresholding realizations of a random Gaussian process, accounts for the statistical properties of place fields in precise quantitative detail. This model captures the observed statistics of field sizes and positions and generates new quantitative predictions on field shapes and topologies. Moreover, these statistics are universal across species, but sensitive to the size and dimensionality of the environment. We quantitatively verified these predictions using multiple recent datasets from bats and rodents in one, two, and three dimensions, across both small and large environments. Collectively, these findings imply that common mechanism underlie the diverse statistical features observed in different experiments and suggest that synaptic projections to CA1 are predominantly random. *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

May 25, 2025

Open PhD positions in the Institute of Machine Learning and Neural Computation at TU Graz

by Ozan Özdenizci

Dear all, We have two open PhD positions in the Institute of Machine Learning and Neural Computation at Graz University of Technology, Austria. The candidates will join my research group with a focus at the intersection of AI safety and resource-efficient machine learning. These positions will be part of the Bilateral AI Cluster of Excellence program funded by the Austrian Science Fund, and candidates will be working in collaboration with our partner institutes JKU Linz, AAU Klagenfurt, ISTA, TU Vienna, and WU Vienna. For more information and details on how to apply: https://www.tugraz.at/institute/iml/institute/open-positions/bilai-jobs Best regards,  Ozan Özdenizci -- Dr. Ozan Özdenizci Assistant Professor Institute of Machine Learning and Neural Computation Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria

May 25, 2025

Webinar for (soon-to-be) postdocs in computational neuroscience 3 June 11 am/5 pm CEST

by Sacha van Albada

In the context of the Henriette Herz Scouting Programme of the Humboldt Foundation, I have a postdoc position available in the field of computational neuroscience. As a low-threshold introduction that does not immediately require a formal application, I am organizing two webinars on Tuesday 3 June, one at 11 am CEST and one at 5 pm CEST, where a colleague and I will briefly present our work and institute, followed by an `Ask Me Anything’ session where my group members and I answer questions. For potential attendees to decide if this is of interest to them, some keywords describing my research are: spiking network models based on anatomical and physiological data, large-scale simulations of cerebral cortex, mean-field theory, comparison with electrophysiological data. The precise research topic can be jointly decided. The candidate should not have previous links to Germany in terms of citizenship, studies, or research stays. Also those in the final stages of their PhDs are welcome. The funding period is 2 years for those who defended the PhD less than 4 years ago and 18 months for those who defended 4-12 years ago. I encourage you to register for internal planning purposes: 11 am CEST session: please register at https://events.hifis.net/event/2649/ and dial in at https://uni-koeln.zoom.us/j/93354865935?pwd=XaRxMWaWObqQJnCNEfmWxEuS1gKovn.1 5 pm CEST session: please register at https://events.hifis.net/event/2674/ and dial in at https://uni-koeln.zoom.us/j/96811002333?pwd=7mdYFayNSsmulys5GVN5Jn2j2jWxwL.1 Hoping to meet/see many of you there! Sacha van Albada -- Prof. Sacha Jennifer van Albada Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre Jülich, Germany Tel. +49 2461 61-96808 Mobile +49 170 2352748 Fax +49 2461 61-9460 Computational Neuroanatomy Institute of Zoology University of Cologne Cologne, Germany Tel. +49-221-470-3829 Fax +49-221-470-4889 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht (Vorsitzende), Dr. Stephanie Bauer (stellv. Vorsitzende), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Laurens Kuipers ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

May 24, 2025

WashU CTCN Postdoc Fellows

by Goodhill, Geoffrey

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS AVAILABLE AT WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST LOUIS The Center for Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience (ctcn.wustl.edu) at Washington University in St Louis invites applications from outstanding Postdoctoral Fellows to work at the interface between theoretical and experimental neuroscience labs at WashU. Deadline for applications is July 1st 2025. The CTCN is a joint initiative between the Schools of Medicine, Engineering, and Arts and Sciences, and provides a hub for neuroscientists to collaborate with mathematicians, physicists and engineers to find creative solutions to some of the most difficult problems currently facing neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Each CTCN Postdoctoral Fellow is based in at least two labs, but also has the opportunity to seek out new collaborations which help build new connections within the WashU community. We are looking for people with drive, independence and outstanding prior achievement, who are committed to leveraging interdisciplinary collaboration to drive forward the field of theoretical and computational neuroscience. Washington University in St Louis is ranked in the top 10 worldwide for Neuroscience and Behavior. Salary for CTCN Fellows is significantly above standard NIH postdoc rates, and funds for conference travel are included. In addition, WashU offers excellent benefits and comprehensive access to career development, professional and personal support. The St Louis metropolitan area has a population of almost 3M and is rich in culture, green spaces and thriving music and arts scenes, with a highly accessible cost of living. For more details on this prestigious Fellowship opportunity, including how to apply, please see https://ctcn.wustl.edu/postdoc-fellows Professor Geoffrey J Goodhill CTCN Director Washington University School of Medicine 660 S. Euclid Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110 g.goodhill(a)wustl.edu<mailto:g.goodhill@wustl.edu> https://neuroscience.wustl.edu/people/geoffrey-goodhill-phd

May 24, 2025

Interesting event: Meeting of the Minds: Western Science Meets Eastern Wisdom

by Thijs Hoedemakers_Werk

Dear members of Comp-neuro, There is an event which might be of interest (see description below). Kind regards, Thijs __________________________________ Meeting of the Minds: Western Science Meets Eastern Wisdom On Friday, June 13, science and Buddhist wisdom come together in an inspiring dialogue between Prof. Dr. Heleen Slagter and Lama Jigmé Namgyal. Prof. Slagter, known for her groundbreaking research on attention, consciousness, and the effects of meditation on the brain, will share her scientific insights into how the mind works and how contemplative practices like meditation can transform awareness. Lama Jigmé Namgyal, an authentic Tibetan Buddhist teacher, meditation instructor, and end-of-life guide, has dedicated his life to studying the human mind and meditation. He will reflect on scientific findings through the lens of the centuries-old Tibetan wisdom tradition. This "Meeting of the Minds" promises a captivating dialogue where Western science and Eastern wisdom meet, complement each other, and at times challenge one another. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to explore how these different perspectives on consciousness, the mind, and human potential can enrich each other through a respectful exchange of ideas. There will be opportunities for audience interaction, making the experience both engaging and educational. The Speakers Prof. Heleen Slagter, a leading cognitive neuroscience researcher, is known for her work on the neural basis of core cognitive functions such as attention and their plasticity. Her research focuses on how the brain selects, suppresses, and processes information, and how practices like meditation can enhance these mechanisms. Meditation promotes greater awareness, adaptability, and cognitive flexibility, and Prof. Slagter will explain the scientific background behind these changes. Lama Jigmé Namgyal’s expertise in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and meditation provides a spiritual perspective in this scientific conversation. For years, he has studied the transformative power of the mind from a Tibetan Buddhist viewpoint, where mindfulness, meditation, and the understanding of impermanence contribute to clarity and inner peace. His experience in guiding people through the dying process offers unique insights into the continuity of consciousness and the Tibetan view of life after death. This evening offers a fascinating exchange between two disciplines—neuroscience and Tibetan Buddhist wisdom—that can deepen our understanding of the human mind and consciousness. Practical Information (Temple & Online) * Date: Friday, June 13 * Time: Doors open at 19:00, Dialogue from 19:30 to 22:30 (with a short break) (CET) * Location: Phuntsok Chö Ling, Oostkousdijk 17B, 3024 CL Rotterdam * Online: Online participation also available * Price: €25 (non-members), €20 (members) (Temple & Online) * Registration link: click here<https://my.phuntsokcholing.org/shop/event?wsID=259>

May 23, 2025

Late-breaking poster abstract submission for the 34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting CNS*2025

by Rubchinsky, Leonid L

Dear Colleagues, We are inviting abstracts for the late-breaking poster-only presentations at the 34th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting CNS*2025, Florence, Italy, July 5-9, 2025. The deadline to submit a late-breaking poster abstracts is June 8. Note that one of the authors must register as a sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission. Please follow the formatting guidelines on the submission site. Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/cns-2025-registration Abstract submission: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2025-abstract-submission CNS*2024 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/ ***********************

May 22, 2025