- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

PhD Position - A framework for automated inference, quality assessment and model enhancement of physics-based simulation models

by Philipp Benner

Dear colleagues, We are looking for a PhD student for the following project: For the design of safety critical components and structures, it is vital to ensure that integrity and reliability are maintained under all environmental conditions and feasible parameter settings. Physics based simulation models such as the Finite Element Method provide means to explore the behavior of a structure for many more scenarios than what can be measured experimentally. The development of an appropriate model either on the structural level or for the constitutive behavior of the materials involved is a complex task. The modelling assumptions can only be validated based on experimental data, which are either provided by databases with lab tests under different conditions on the material scale, or using monitoring techniques for a structural modelling problem. The challenge is that simulation models usually have multiple parameters that jointly influence the simulation results , i.e. there is not a one to one mapping between a single parameter and a single data set. As a consequence, an inverse problem has to be solved. The goal of this proposal is to 1. automate the procedure of calibrating model parameters based on experimental data including objective measures of the model quality 2. identify model discrepancies - which is particularly difficult for large datasets - by combining using Gaussian process models with physics based models 3. and suggest model improvements based on a dictionary type of learning procedure. All of the procedures are implemented in a Bayesian framework to account for measurement and model uncertainties. The validation of the developed methods is initially performed using virtual experiments allowing to directly prescribe model deficiencies and compare the identified models to the ground truth. The implementation of the models is done in an open source framework. As a consequence, the procedures are planned to be validated in parallel projects on real data sets. Details: https://www.bam.de/umantis/EN/952.html Kind regards, Philipp Benner

Nov. 13, 2021

PostDoc validation of safety-critical ML methods

by Philipp Benner

Dear colleagues, We have another exciting postdoc position: The digitization of engineering and materials science offers a wide range of options for optimizing manufacturing processes and testing procedures. Machine learning methods in particular show great potential here, e.g. in the prediction of material properties, the optimization of process parameters or as meta models for complex physical models in the context of a digital twin. The application of machine learning methods to safety-critical issues requires robust, explainable and generalizable models that can in particular also provide estimators for the accuracy of the model prediction. In the field of engineering, the dimensionality of the input data is also relatively large, combined with a relatively small number of data records. The aim is to develop methods that make it possible to apply ML methods taking into account statistical methods for safety-critical questions, and in particular to integrate additional information from physical models (described by partial differential equations). This sub-project is a collaboration between Department 7.7 “Modeling and Simulation” and Section S.3 “eScience”. The position is embedded in the additive manufacturing competence center and is financed by the QI-Digital (quality infrastructure) project. The project is integrated into an international research environment and requires active networking with industry and research. Further information: https://www.bam.de/umantis/EN/1024.html <https://www.bam.de/umantis/DE/1024.html> Kind regards, Philipp Benner

Nov. 13, 2021

COSYNE 2022: Abstract submission closes soon

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2022 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 17 - 20 March 2022 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 21 - 22 March 2022 Cascais, Portugal www.cosyne.org ==================================================== ---------------------------------------------------- MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. All abstract submissions will be reviewed double blind. The deadline for Abstract submission is 20 November 2021. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural basis of behavior, sensory and motor systems, circuitry, learning, neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, neuromodulation, and computation with spiking networks. We would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. IMPORTANT DATES Abstract submission is now open Abstract submission deadline: 20 November 2021 When preparing an abstract, authors should be aware that not all abstracts can be accepted for the meeting. Abstracts will be selected based on the clarity with which they convey the substance, significance, and originality of the work to be presented. COSYNE SPEAKERS Eugenia Chiappe (Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown) Albert Compte (IDIBAPS, Barcelona) Sandeep Robert Datta (Harvard Medical School) André Fenton (New York University) Kate Jeffery (University College London) Ann Hermundstad (Janelia Research Campus, HHMI) Michael A. Long (New York University) Christian Machens (Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown) Asya Rolls (Technion - Israel Institute of Technology) Susanne Schreiber (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin) Maryam Shanechi (University of Southern California) Scott Waddell (University of Oxford) Martha White (University of Alberta) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) and Srdjan Ostojic (Ecole Normale Superieure Paris) Program Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU Munich) and Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Workshop Chairs: Anna Schapiro (U Penn) and Blake Richards (McGill) Tutorial Chair: Kanaka Rajan (Mount Sinai) DEIA Committee: Gabrielle Gutierrez (Columbia) and Stefano Recanatesi (U Washington) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Sashank Pisupati (Princeton) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) Social Media Chair: Grace Lindsay (Columbia) Audio-Video Media Chair: Carlos Stein Brito (EPFL) Poster Design: Maja Bialon PROGRAM COMMITTEE Laura Busse (U Munich) Tim Vogels (IST Austria) Athena Akrami (UCL) Omri Barak (Technion) Brice Bathellier (Paris) Bing Brunton (U Washington) Yoram Burak (Hebrew University) SueYeon Chung (Columbia) Christine Constantinople (NYU) Victor de Lafuente (UNAM Mexico) Jan Drugowitsch (Harvard) Alexander Ecker (Göttingen) Tatiana Engel (Cold Spring Harbor) Annegret Falkner (Princeton) Kevin Franks (Duke) Jens Kremkow (Berlin) Andrew Leifer (Princeton) Sukbin Lim (Shanghai) Scott Linderman (Stanford) Emilie Mace (MPI Neurobiology) Mackenzie Mathis (EPFL Lausanne) Ida Momennejad (Microsoft) Jill O'Reilly (Oxford) Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) Adrien Peyrache (McGill Montréal) Yiota Poirazi (FORCE) Nathalie Rochefort (Edinburgh) Cristina Savin (NYU) Daniela Vallentin (MPI Ornithology) Brad Wyble (Penn State) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org COSYNE MAILING LISTS Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> Mailing lists for details.

Nov. 11, 2021

Two postdoctoral positions at Harvard

by Cengiz Pehlevan

Dear colleagues, We have two postdoctoral positions at Harvard that may be of interest. 1) The George F. Carrier Postdoctoral Fellowship. This prestigious independent position at Applied Mathematics is open to candidates with a wide range of interests, including neuroscience and machine learning. Even though the listed deadline has passed, we are still accepting applications. Details are here: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10697 <https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10697> 2) Postdoctoral Fellow in the Theory of Representation Learning in Artificial and Natural Systems. We are looking for exceptional junior scientists to work collaboratively with a group of faculty from Computer Science (Boaz Barak), Statistics (Lucas Janson), Electrical Engineering (Demba Ba) and Applied Mathematics (Cengiz Pehlevan) towards a theory of representations in artificial and natural systems. Details are here (towards the bottom of the page): https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10730 <https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/10730> Best wishes, Cengiz

Nov. 11, 2021

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

by Antonio Roque

*Postdoctoral Fellowships inAcquisition, processing and quantitative analysis of neurobiological data* 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 three post-doctoral fellowships for recent PhDs with outstanding research potential. The fellowship will involve collaborations with research teams and laboratories associated with NeuroMat. The research to be developed by the post-doc fellows shall be strictly related to ongoing research lines developed by the NeuroMat team. The project may be developed at USP (São Paulo or Ribeirão Preto) or at UNICAMP (Campinas). We seek candidates capable of developing independent research in one of the research lines below. 1. Stochastic modeling of neurobiological data. 2. Acquisition, processing and quantitative analysis of neurobiological data. Candidates to the first research line are required to have a strong background in probability theory with emphasis on stochastic processes. Candidates to the second research line are required to have a strong background in neuroscience with previous experience in neurophysiological data acquisition, processing and analysis, and knowledge of computer programming. The initial appointment is for one year, with a possible extension to up to three years, conditional on research progress. 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. 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/6351 for 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 two aforementioned profiles the candidate has applied. It should also address how this research plan fits within the framework of the NeuroMat research program. Timetable: Candidates are encouraged to apply at their earliest convenience until December 12, 2021. Appointments are expected to start by February or March 2022. The initial period of the position lasts for 12 months, with possible renewals for up to three years. This opportunity is open to candidates of any nationality. The selected candidates will be awarded FAPESP Postdoctoral fellowships in the amount of BR 7,373 monthly 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 http://www.fapesp.br/en/5427. -- Dr. Antonio C. Roque Professor Associado Departamento de Fisica FFCLRP, Universidade de Sao Paulo 14040-901 Ribeirao Preto-SP Brazil - Brasil E-mails: antonior(a)usp.br <antonior(a)ffclrp.usp.br> aroquesilva(a)gmail.com URL: www.sisne.org Tels: +55 16 3315-3768 <+55%2016%203315-3768> (sala/office); +55 16 3315-3859 <+55%2016%203315-3859> (lab) FAX: +55 16 3315-4887 <+55%2016%203315-4887>

Nov. 11, 2021

ERC-funded Postdoc position in computational neuroscience and modelling of salamander locomotor circuits, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland

by Auke Ijspeert

The Biorobotics laboratory (Biorob, https://www.epfl.ch/labs/biorob/) at EPFL (Lausanne, Switzerland) has one open postdoc position in computational neuroscience and modeling of salamander locomotor circuits. The position is part of the Salamandra project, a Synergy grant funded by the ERC that started in September 2021, together with Prof. Andras Simon (Karolinska Institute, Sweden) and Prof. Dimitri Ryczko (U. Sherbrooke, Canada). See some info here: https://actu.epfl.ch/news/salamanders-provide-a-model-for-spinal-cord-rege-… The goals of the position are (i) to develop numerical models and simulations of the locomotor circuits in the spinal cord of the salamander, (ii) to analyze their dynamics when coupled to a simulated mechanical model of the body (interactions between central and peripheral mechanisms), and (iii) to investigate their regenerative properties after spinal cord lesions. The models will likely be based on integrate-and-fire neuron models, but other models could also be investigated (e.g. rate-based). The position is fully funded for 2 years (and can be extended to 4 years in total). EPFL is one of the leading Institutes of Technology in Europe and offers extremely competitive salaries and research infrastructure. *Requirements:* Candidates should have a Ph.D. and a strong publication record in computational neuroscience. An ideal candidate would have prior experience in: * Numerical models of oscillatory (spinal) circuits * Movement and locomotion control * Integrate-and-fire neural models (or similar neuron models) * Good management skills are a plus. Fluency in oral and written English is required. *How to apply for the position:* Postdoctoral applications should consist of a motivation letter (explaining why you are interested in the project, and why you feel qualified for it), a full CV, two or three relevant publications, and the email addresses of two or more referees. PDF files are preferred. Please send your application and any inquiry by email to auke.ijspeert(a)epfl.ch. Information concerning the type of research carried out by the lab can be found at https://www.epfl.ch/labs/biorob/ . *Deadline and starting date:* Applications are requested starting from now**, and will then be processed as they arrive until the position is closed. The ideal starting date is *early 2022* (with some flexibility). *Contact:* Information concerning the type of research carried out by the lab can be found at https://www.epfl.ch/labs/biorob/ . You should send your application and any inquiry by email to auke.ijspeert(a)epfl.ch -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Prof Auke Jan Ijspeert Biorobotics Laboratory EPFL-STI-IBI-BIOROB, ME D1 1226, Station 9 EPFL, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland Office: ME D1 1226 Tel: +41 21 693 2658 Fax: +41 21 693 3705 www:http://biorob.epfl.ch Email:Auke.Ijspeert@epfl.ch -----------------------------------------------------------------

Nov. 11, 2021

Dec 13, 14 Workshop: The free energy principle of the brain: experiments and verification

by Hideaki Shimazaki

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to invite you to *an online two-day workshop on the free energy principle and active inference, focusing on its experimental verification and biological implementation*. The time is set for EU/UK and East Asia. Please visit our website for registration (free): https://sites.google.com/view/free-energy-workshop Workshop title: *The free energy principle of the brain: Experiments and verification* Date: 2021 Dec 13 (Mon) and 14 (Tue) Place: Online (Registration required) Invited Speakers and Titles: *Takuya Isomura* (RIKEN CBS) Active inference and the emergence of sentient behaviour *Hitoshi Okamoto* (RIKEN CBS) Zebrafish as a model animal for studying active inference *Beren Millidge *(U Oxford) The FEP, Predictive Coding, and Backpropagation in the Brain *Rafal Bogacz* (U Oxford) Dopamine: precision of action selection or prediction error *Naoki Honda* (Hiroshima U) Decoding reward-curiosity conflict in probabilistic bandit task *Miguel Aguilera* (Sussex U) When can we interpret organisms as performing Bayesian inference? *Jun Tani *(OIST) Cognitive Neurorobotics Study Using the Free Energy Principle *Ken-ichi Amemori *(Kyoto U) Neuroscientific and computational basis of anxiety in primates: conflict decision and risk aversion *Rosalyn Moran* (King's Colledge London) Active Inference from Neurobiology to Blackjack We are looking forward to your active participation! Sincerely, Hideaki on behalf of organizers Hideaki Shimazaki, CHAIN Hokkaido University Masatoshi Yasuda, CHAIN Hokkaido University Mark Miller, CHAIN Hokkaido University Takuya Isomura, RIKEN CBS Naoki Honda, Hiroshima U Christopher Buckley, Sussex U --- Hideaki Shimazaki, Ph.D Center for Human Nature, Artificial Intelligence, and Neuroscience (CHAIN) Hokkaido University https://www.neuralengine.org

Nov. 11, 2021

A Dendrites Virtual Workshop hosted at Emory University Dec. 7.

by Jaeger, Dieter

Dear Colleagues: We are pleased to invite you to our virtual workshop entitled "Are dendrites necessary for cortical computation?” to be held on Tuesday, December 7, 10:00am - 1:00 pm EST. This workshop is in the series of Emory University Initiative in Theory And Modeling of Living Systems (TMLS, http://livingtheory.emory.edu) virtual workshops, exploring provocative questions on the interface of biology and physical sciences. See https://www.youtube.com/c/EmoryTMLS for recordings of previous workshops in the program. Abstract: Many network models for modeling cortical function are built with single compartment units using a variety of more or less simple integrate and fire dynamics. On the other hand, many biologically oriented research groups place great emphasis on the complex and detailed properties of active processing in pyramidal neuron dendrites. The question to be addressed in this workshop is whether essential computational properties of biological cortical networks rely on dendritic processing, and if so, which? Finally, could such properties be formalized in simpler ways than using full biophysical detail and substantially add to the function of more abstract network modeling? Six exciting speakers will present their thoughts on the matter, and the audience will be able to interact with them in real time, asking questions through the YouTube comments interface. Free registration is requested at: https://forms.gle/9HzNgrYbJPYBUfSw9<https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.gle…> We expect to stream the workshop live at the TMLS YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/EmoryTMLS and we will send information, updates/changes to all registered participants before the workshop begins. Confirmed Speakers and Titles: Dieter Jaeger, Emory University, Introduction Claudia Clopath, Imperial College London Brent Doiron, University of Chicago “Cell specific inhibitory plasticity in assembly formation” Bartlett Mel, University of Southern California "How to optimize a dendrite for binary subunit pooling” Yiota Poirazi, IMBB-FORTH Crete “Dendritic solutions to logical operations in models of human neurons” Andreas Stöckel, University of Waterloo. “Passive Dendrites as a Computational Resource in the Neural Engineering Framework” Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University “Dendritic gating in the whole neocortex” Please feel free to forward this announcement to anyone that you think might be interested. Hope to see you there! Thank you, Dieter Jaeger (workshop organizer) Dieter Jaeger Professor, Department of Biology Emory University djaeger(a)emory.edu<mailto:djaeger@emory.edu> https://scholarblogs.emory.edu/jaegerlab/

Nov. 10, 2021

Second session of the Brains Through Time Reading Club

by manuel molano

Dear all, We would like to bring to your attention the second session of the Brains Through Time Reading Club<https://sites.google.com/view/bbtreadingclub/home>! It will be on the first of December (6pm CEST / 12 EST) and will include the participation of Maria Tosches<https://www.biology.columbia.edu/people/tosches>, Luis Puelles<https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nIoLKVAAAAAJ&hl=en> and Paul Cisek<https://cisek.org/pavel/>. We will dedicate ~2 hours to present and discuss the main ideas of the second chapter of the book: The Origin of Vertebrates: Invertebrate Chordates and Cyclostomes. You can register HERE<https://www.crowdcast.io/e/brains-through-time-2>. In case you missed the first session, you can watch it HERE<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cErEJTa2GUc&ab_channel=TheBrainingClub> or read a quick summary of the first chapter HERE<https://twitter.com/TheBrainingClub/status/1445105424722767877>. See you there! The Braining Club About the BTT reading club: As the name implies, the idea is to review the book Brains Through Time<https://oxford.universitypressscholarship.com/view/10.1093/oso/978019512568…>, by Georg Striedter<https://www.faculty.uci.edu/profile.cfm?faculty_id=3006> and Glenn Northcutt<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Northcutt>. Brains Through Time is a masterful synthesis of much of what is known about brain evolution, and offers great insights to anyone interested in a broad understanding of how the brain produces behavior.

Nov. 10, 2021

PhD positions in Math Biology & Computational Neuroscience at NJIT

by Victor Matveev

Dear all, The Department of Mathematical Sciences at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) invites candidates to apply for one of our doctoral program tracks: (1) Applied Mathematics or (2) Applied Probability & Statistics. The Department's research focus spans Mathematical Biology and Computational Neuroscience, Scientific Computing, Fluid Dynamics, Materials Science, Wave Propagation, Applied Analysis, and Applied Probability and Statistics, including Biostatistics and Data Science. We offer teaching and research assistantships, which include a tuition waiver, a competitive stipend starting at $25,000 per academic year and, pending funding availability, at least $3,500 in summer support. The application target date is December 15, 2021, but review will be ongoing until all available positions are filled. New Jersey Institute of Technology is a "Research I" University by Carnegie Classification, with a campus in the city of Newark. NJIT is conveniently located in close vicinity to many other centers of research in mathematical biology and neuroscience, across the street from Rutgers-Newark, and within about 40 min of New York City by public transportation. To apply, go to: https://www.njit.edu/graduatestudies/department-mathematical-sciences/ For more information, please email us (math(a)njit.edu, CC to: shahriar.afkhami(a)njit.edu) Program flyer is posted here: https://web.njit.edu/~matveev/NJIT_DMS_PhD_flyer.pdf Sincerely --Victor Matveev (on behalf of the Admissions Committee ) -- _____________________________________________ Victor Matveev, Professor Applied Math, Biophysics, Neuroscience Department of Mathematical Sciences Graduate Faculty, Dept of Biological Sciences New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark, NJ 07102-1982 Office: Cullimore Hall 616 E-mail:matveev@njit.edu http://web.njit.edu/~matveev/

Nov. 9, 2021

Announcing DENDRITES 2022

by Yiota Poirazi

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that after the cancellation of our 2020 meeting because of the covid-19 pandemic, DENDRITES 2022 will take place in Heraklion, Crete on 23-26 May 2022. This is the 4th of a very successful series of meetings on the island of Crete that is dedicated to dendrites. The meeting will bring together scientific leaders from around the globe to present their theoretical and experimental work on dendrites. The meeting program is designed to facilitate discussions of new ideas and discoveries, in a relaxed atmosphere that emphasizes interaction. DENDRITES 2022 EMBO Workshop on Dendritic Anatomy, Molecules and Function Heraklion, Crete, Greece 23-26 May 2022 http://meetings.embo.org/event/20-dendrites *Organizing committee:* Yiota Poirazi, IMBB-FORTH, GR Kristen Harris, University of Texas-Austin, US Michael Häusser, University College London, GB Matthew Larkum, Humboldt University of Berlin, DE *Registration and abstract submission will open soon at:* http://meetings.embo.org/event/20-dendrites Submissions of abstracts are due by *February 1st, **2022.* Notifications will be provided by February 28th, 2022. Potential attendees are strongly encouraged to submit an abstract as presenters will have registration priority. For more information about the conference, please refer to our web site or send email to info(a)mitos.com.gr We look forward to seeing you at DENDRITES 2022! on behalf of the organizers, Yiota Poirazi -- Panayiota Poirazi, Ph.D. Research Director Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) Vassilika Vouton, P.O.Box 1385, GR 70013, Heraklion, Crete GREECE Tel: +30 2810 391139 Fax: +30 2810 391101 Εmail: poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr Lab site: www.dendrites.gr

Nov. 8, 2021

hybrid IEEE WIE ILS on December 2nd and 3rd, 2021

by Marianna Semprini

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the IEEE Women in Engineering International Leadership Summit as a hybrid event to be held on December 2nd and 3rd, 2021 both online and in person in Genova, Italy (limited seats available, green pass required). Information and registration form can be found here: https://wieils-italy.eu/ The IEEE WIE ILS is an internationally acclaimed program of IEEE Women in Engineering, which is one of the world's largest technical communities working towards shaping the scenario of underrepresentation of Women in Engineering and Technology. IEEE WIE ILS started in 2015 was organized in Chennai with the theme "Beyond Yourself - Leveraging your strengths and breaking barriers". The summit drew more than 200 participants which paved the way for more such summits all over the globe. Now every year ten such summits are organized across the globe. In 2020 we were selected to host an ILS event for the first time in Italy. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 ILS was only virtual (see the "past editions" tab). This year we are going to have a hybrid event with participation both online and in-person! We have planned sessions on empowering, entrepreneurship, mentoring, and also parenting! The event is open to anyone, especially to women and minorities in the STEM area. Join us (either in person or online) for two days of panel discussions, keynote presentations, round table discussions, and networking! Marianna Semprini, PhD (she/her) Rehab Technologies Lab Phone : 010 71781 212 ISTITUTO ITALIANO DI TECNOLOGIA Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova Site: www.iit.it

Nov. 8, 2021

Theoretical Sciences Visiting Program 2022 at OIST (Application by Nov. 30, 2021)

by Kenji Doya

We are pleased to call for Long-Term Visiting Scholars in Theoretical Sciences at OIST as below. **** As part of an initiative to develop a vibrant program in theoretical sciences, OIST invites applications for Visiting Scholars in the Theoretical Sciences. The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is a research institution with a Ph.D. program. Outstanding graduate students and faculty are being attracted internationally. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and be independent researchers, i.e., should have an academic standing equivalent to senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member at a research-intensive institution. The position has a flexible term of 2 to 12 months taken continuously starting between April 2022 and March 2023 with a preference for longer-term visitors. Visitors through this program are encouraged to collaborate with one or more research units in OIST during their stay. The appointment may be taken while on leave or sabbatical from another university and comes with housing, research funds, and moving allowance. This program can provide a per diem as per OIST rules. In exceptional situations where the applicant does not receive any salary from grants or their institution at the time of their visit to OIST, successful candidates may be able to apply for support with salary, where this is necessary to facilitate the visit, and they can provide evidence of their need. No teaching duties come with the position. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to give a short series of lectures to students and researchers in the OIST community on a topic of their choosing, and we ask that they include details of this in their cover letter. OIST is an institution with no departments, aiming to eliminate barriers between people working in different fields. It provides a family-friendly working environment including the multilingual Child Development Center and has proactive policies designed to promote a culture of diversity. OIST is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator, and employer. Further details can be found at https://www.oist.jp/. Qualifications Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and be independent researchers, i.e., should have an academic standing equivalent to senior postdoc, junior group leader, or faculty member at a research-intensive institution. Application Instructions To apply, please go to our Interfolio page: https://apply.interfolio.com/96304 Applicants should submit a CV including a list of publications (limit 10 pages), and provide a brief description of their research to date and proposed research while visiting OIST (limit 2 pages). In your proposal, please explicitly mention OIST units you wish to collaborate with, and include your intended start date and length of stay in your proposal (date range is acceptable). All visits are subject to the availability of funding. To be considered for this year’s funding the applicant’s intended stay should start no later than March 2023. Applications received by November 30th 2021, are guaranteed full consideration. If you have any questions, please contact the Faculty Affairs Office at tsvp(a)oist.jp ---- 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

Nov. 7, 2021

Two Data Scientist positions in Marburg, Germany

by Dominik Endres

We are offering *two Data Scientist*(m/f/d) positions as a part of the cluster project *The Adaptive Mind*at the Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany. The positions are associated with the Center of Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB) in Marburg. If you are interested in high-performance computing, machine learning and data management for large, interdisciplinary projects, then one of these jobs might be for you. Please contact Prof. Dominik Endres, dominik.endres(a)uni-marburg.de <mailto:dominik.endres@uni-marburg.de>, for more information. The full job adverts can be found here: https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern… <https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern…> https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern… <https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/universitaet/administration/verwaltung/dezern…> Application deadline is Nov. 26^th , 2021 regards, Dominik Endres -- Prof. Dr. Dominik Endres Theoretische Kognitionswissenschaft - Theoretical Cognitive Science FB 04 Psychologie Tel: 06421-28 23818

Nov. 5, 2021

Flatiron Research Fellows (Post-Docs), Center for Computational Neuroscience, Flatiron Institute

by Matthew Turner

Flatiron Research Fellows (Post-Docs), Center for Computational Neuroscience <https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-neurosci…>, Flatiron Institute New York, New York ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW The Simons Foundation is a private foundation established in 1994 in New York City. With assets of approximately $2 billion and an annual grants and programs budget of $230 million, the foundation is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences. The Flatiron Institute is a major, new internal scientific unit of the Simons Foundation, focused on the computational aspects of a wide range of basic science. The mission of the Flatiron Institute is to advance scientific research through computational methods, including theory, modeling, simulation and data analysis. The Flatiron Institute currently consists of five centers: the Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA); the Center for Computational Biology (CCB); the Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ); the Center for Computational Mathematics (CCM); and the Center for Computational Neuroscience (CCN). The Institute staff is composed of research scientists at various stages of their careers from recent Ph.D.s through senior scientists, software engineers and support staff. We host a vigorous visitor program and interact regularly with scientists from neighboring institutions. POSITION SUMMARY Applications are invited for Flatiron Research Fellowships (FRF) at the Center for Computational Neuroscience. The CCN FRF program offers the opportunity for postdoctoral research in areas that have strong synergy with one or more of the existing research groups at CCN or other centers at the Flatiron Institute. CCN FRF’s will be assigned a primary mentor from a CCN research group or project, though affiliations and collaborations with other research groups within CCN and throughout the Flatiron Institute are encouraged. In addition to carrying out an independent research program, Flatiron Research Fellows are expected to: disseminate their results through scientific presentations, publications, and software release, collaborate with other members of the CCN or Flatiron Institute, and participate in the scientific life of the CCN and Flatiron Institute by attending seminars, colloquia, and group meetings. Flatiron Research Fellows may have the opportunity to organize workshops and to mentor graduate and undergraduate students. The mission of CCN is to develop theories, models, and computational methods that deepen our knowledge of brain function — both in health and in disease. CCN takes a “systems" neuroscience approach, building models that are motivated by fundamental principles, that are constrained by properties of neural circuits and responses, and that provide insights into perception, cognition and behavior. This cross-disciplinary approach not only leads to the design of new model-driven scientific experiments, but also encapsulates current functional descriptions of the brain that can spur the development of new engineered computational systems, especially in the realm of machine learning. CCN currently has research groups in computational vision, neural circuits and algorithms, neuroAI and geometry, and statistical analysis of neural data; interested candidates should review the CCN public website <https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-neurosci…> for specific information on CCN’s research areas. Review of applications for positions starting between July and October 2022 will begin in mid-January 2022. Application Materials: - Cover letter (optional); - Curriculum Vitae with bibliography; - Research statement of no more than three pages describing past work and proposed research program. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the broad impact of the past and proposed research on computational neuroscience. Applicants should also indicate the primary CCN group(s) with which they’d seek to conduct research, and any desired affiliation with other Flatiron Centers. - Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by direct email to ccnjobs(a)simonsfoundation.org Selection Criteria: Applicants must have a PhD in a related field or expect to receive their PhD before the start of the appointment. Applications will be evaluated based on 1) past research accomplishments 2) proposed research program 3) synergy of applicant’s expertise and research proposal topic with existing CCN staff and research programs. Education: - PhD in computational neuroscience or a relevant technical field such as electrical engineering, machine learning, statistics, physics, or applied math. Related Skills: - Flexible multi-disciplinary mindset; - Strong interest and experience in the scientific study of the brain; - Demonstrated abilities in analysis, software and algorithm development, modeling and/or scientific simulation; - Ability to do original and outstanding research in neuroscience; - Ability to work well independently as well as in a collaborative team environment. FRF positions are two-year appointments and are generally renewed for a third year, contingent on performance. FRF receive a research budget and have access to the Flatiron Institute’s powerful scientific computing resources. FRF may be eligible for subsidized housing within walking distance of the CCN. THE SIMONS FOUNDATION'S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law. Application portal: https://simonsfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/simonsfoundationcareer… Matthew B. Turner Manager for Center Administration | Center for Computational Neuroscience Pronouns: he/him/his *FLATIRON INSTITUTE* 162 Fifth Avenue Suite 308 New York, NY 10010 917.363.1095 *mobile* *simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/ <http://simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/>*

Nov. 4, 2021

Postdoc Fellowship in Data Science in Göttingen, Germany

by Ecker, Alexander

The Campus Institute Data Science (CIDAS) at the University of Göttingen invites applications for two fellowships for outstanding young scientists to implement their own innovative research agenda in the field of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. CIDAS promotes campus-wide interdisciplinary exchange and activities in the field of data science. The application deadline is Sunday, November 14th, 2021. In case of questions contact Alexander Ecker: ecker(a)cs.uni-goettingen.de *Funding Objectives:* CIDAS would like to support young scientists at an early stage of their career to develop independent projects and to create a perspective to work independently for several years at the Göttingen Campus in the field of Data Science. In particular, the collaboration between methodological, theoretical researchers and applied scientists at the Göttingen Campus and within CIDAS should be promoted. The applications should show a career perspective for the applicants and open a path to scientific independence and own third-party funding. *Who can apply:* Outstanding young scientists who are in the final phase of their PhD (last year) or early postdoc phase (maximum 2 years after the PhD) with an idea for their own research project in the field of Data Science. This can be in the fundamentals of Data Science, applied Data Science, or in the social science aspects of Data Science. This requires a planned collaboration with at least one member of CIDAS. Other collaborations with groups outside CIDAS are also possible and encouraged. If the applicant is not already a CIDAS member, he/she will be accepted into CIDAS upon approval of the application. The position can be used in particular for preparatory work for a subsequent application, e.g. for a junior research group. *Scope of funding:* Two fellowships will be awarded. The funding includes €75,000 each, which can be used, for example, to finance the applicant's own position. *Documents to be submitted:* 1. Description of the research idea (max. 5 pages), incl.: - Clearly defined content-related goals, comprehensible time schedule - Possible perspectives after the project, career perspectives, possibly plan for external funding - Planned collaboration with CIDAS members and other scientists - Innovation of the application 2. Curriculum vitae 3. Letter of recommendation from the supervisor or mentor, including a workplace (incl. infrastructure) commitment for the period to be funded Deadline: Sunday, November 14th, 2021 Application by email to: cidas(a)uni-goettingen.de -- Alexander Ecker Professor of Data Science Department of Computer Science • Campus Institute Data Science University of Göttingen • Max Planck Inst. for Dynamics and Self-Organization Goldschmidtstr. 1 • room 2.137 • 37077 Göttingen https://eckerlab.org • @alxecker • +49 551 39-21272

Nov. 4, 2021

PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt

by Claudius Gros

PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position at the Institute for Theoretical Physics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany Fields: neurosciences, complex systems theory Application deadline: Dec 15, 2021 Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros We are developing new models and generative principles for complex systems, using a range of toolsets from dynamical systems theory, game theory, and the neurosciences. Examples are self-generated gaits for animals and robotic systems, criticality in autonomous networks, as well as Covid-19 modeling. Several subjects are available for the announced PhD thesis, depending on the background of the successful candidate. The work will include analytical investigations and numerical simulations. The candidates should have a Diploma/Master in physics with an excellent academic track record and good computational skills. Experience or strong interest in the fields of complex systems, dynamical systems theory, game theory and/or artificial or biological cognitive systems is expected. The degree of scientific research experience is expected to be on the level of a German Diploma/Master. The appointment will start in spring 2022, for three years. Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and a list of publications to the address below. Prof. Claudius Gros Institute for Theoretical Physics Goethe University Frankfurt Max-von-Laue-Str. 1 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany cgr(a)itp.uni-frankfurt.de http://www.itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros General information on the University of Frankfurt and its employment policy: With its around 46,000 students and 4,600 employees, the Goethe University in Frankfurt is the largest university in the state of Hessen and an internationally renowned, important regional employer. Numerous quality and performance oriented internal reforms have been initiated in the recent years. The reorganized campuses for natural sciences and humanities offer an ideal environment for research and education. Since 2008, the Goethe University is a foundation under public law and enjoys full administrative autonomy.  The fixed-term employment of the academic staff is subject to the provisions of the Temporary Science Employment Law and the Hessian Higher Education Act. The University advocates gender equality and therefore strongly encourages women to apply. People with disabilities are given preference if equally qualified. -- ### ### Prof. Dr. Claudius Gros ### http://itp.uni-frankfurt.de/~gros ### ### Complex and Adaptive Dynamical Systems, A Primer ### A graduate-level textbook, Springer (2008/10/13/15) ### ### Life for barren exoplanets: The Genesis project ### https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10509-016-2911-0 ###

Nov. 4, 2021

Faculty position in Data Science and Neuroengineering at Boston University

by Laura Lewis

Dear colleagues, Forwarding the ad for our department's open position for an Assistant Professor: The College of Engineering at Boston University has embarked on a bold new strategic plan that will pursue excellence and impact along convergent and collaborative research themes while remaining committed to our institutional values regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. The College anticipates two openings for tenure-track faculty positions at the level of Assistant Professor, one focusing on the convergent theme: Data Science in Neuroengineering. We are seeking a candidate whose research develops or uses methods from data science to advance knowledge of neuroscience in health and disease. Topics may include computational neuroscience, neurosignal processing, machine learning, image processing, artificial intelligence, or, more broadly, data science techniques in neuroscience. The ideal candidate will have a strong publication record in this convergent research theme and will be able to form links among the neuro- and systems-engineering strengths of the College’s Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical and Computer Engineering, as well as the University’s strengths in the Data- and Neuro-Sciences. To apply: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/19046

Nov. 3, 2021

Postdoctoral position to study circuit mechanisms of adaptive learning at Dartmouth College

by Alireza Soltani

The Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab (CCNL) at Dartmouth College has an opening for an NIH-funded postdoctoral position to work on an exciting project on circuit mechanisms of reward-based learning under uncertainty. The project involves computational modeling and data analyses (behavioral and calcium imaging) in close collaboration with Alicia Izquierdo's lab at UCLA. Initial appointment is for one year with opportunity for renewal. The position is open to start immediately, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. A few recent relevant papers include: 1. Soltani A, Izquierdo A (2019). Adaptive Learning under Expected and Unexpected Uncertainty. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 20(10): 635–644 2. Farashahi S, Donahue C, Hayden B, Lee D, Soltani A (2019). Flexible Combination of Reward Information across Primates. Nature Human Behaviour, 3: 1215–1224 3. Stolyarova A, Rakhshan M, Peters MA, Lau H, Soltani A, Izquierdo A (2019). Contributions of Anterior Cingulate Cortex and Basolateral Amygdala in Decision Confidence and Learning under Uncertainty. Nature Communications, 10:4704 4. Spitmaan MM, Seo H, Lee D, Soltani A (2020). Multiple Timescales of Neural Dynamics and Integration of Task-relevant Signals across Cortex. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 117 (36), 22522-22531 5. Trepka E, Spitmaan MM, Bari BA, Costa VD, Cohen JY, Soltani A (2021). Novel entropy-based metrics for predicting choice behavior based on local response to reward. Nature Communications (Accepted) [available on bioRxiv, 2021.05.20.445009v1] For more recent publications from the lab please visit http://ccnl.dartmouth.edu. Interested individuals should contact Alireza Soltani (soltani(a)dartmouth.edu) with their CV. Alireza Soltani, Ph.D. Associate Professor Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Dartmouth College, NH Alireza.Soltani(a)Dartmouth.edu http://ccnl.dartmouth.edu Phone: 603-646-2998 Office: Moore 356

Nov. 3, 2021

BCI Un-Conference: Submission open

by Anja Meunier

Dear colleagues, registration and abstract submission for the 3rd BCI Un-Conference is now open [1]. Abstract submissions are text-only. The length and format of the submissions are up to the authors - use whatever format you consider best for attracting up-votes! Important dates: - Submission deadline: December 3rd, 2021 at 11:59 pm (CET) - Voting period: December 6th, 2021 - December 12th, 2021 at 11:59 pm (CET) - BCI-UC event: January 27th, 2022, from 03:00 pm to 09:00 pm (CET) We will invite the authors of the top-voted abstracts to present at the un-conference. The 3rd BCI-UC will feature keynotes by Cynthia Chestek (University of Michigan) [2] and Thorsten Zander (TU Brandenburg) [3]. BCI-UC is an online un-conference that provides rapid dissemination of novel research results in the BCI community. Participants can submit abstracts to apply for 20 minutes presentation slots. Abstracts are not reviewed by a program committee. Rather, all registered participants can vote on which of the submitted abstracts they would like to see presented at the un-conference. Because the BCI-UC does not publish conference proceedings, submitted abstracts can report novel as well as already published work. Registration and attendance are free of charge. Presentations of the 1st and 2nd BCI-UC can be re-watched at [4] and [5]. All presentations will be streamed via Crowdcast [6] and can be accessed free of charge. Join us in supporting this novel community-driven dissemination of research results! The BCI-UC committee: Moritz Grosse-Wentrup Anja Meunier Philipp Raggam Jiachen Xu Links: [1] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/register-vote/ [2] https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=36sxAZEAAAAJ&hl=de [3] https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=0E49HxYAAAAJ [4] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/1st-bci-uc/ [5] https://bciunconference.univie.ac.at/past-events/2nd-bci-uc/ [6] https://www.crowdcast.io/

Nov. 2, 2021

Postdoc position in Computational and Systems Neuroscience at Research Center Jülich, Germany

by Martina Reske

The working group Statistical Neuroscience at INM-6 Computational and Systems Neuroscience<https://www.fz-juelich.de/inm/inm-6/EN/Home/home_node_INM6.html> at Research Center Juelich, Germany, led by Sonja Grün<https://www.fz-juelich.de/SharedDocs/Personen/INM/INM-6/EN/staff/Gruen_Sonj…> develops statistical methods for the analysis of experimental electrophysiological data from massively parallel electrophysiological recordings and leads the development of open source software tools for the analysis of activity data and validation of models on the population level. The department aims to fill a postdoctoral position that is responsible for the analysis of massively parallel spike and LFP data acquired in a collaborative project with CNRS-AMU, Marseille. Your Job: • Analysis of massively parallel spike and LFP data from the Vision for Action project (visuo-motor integration across areas) • Adaptation of machine learning algorithms and/or further development of methods for the analysis of these neuronal multichannel data • Development of methods for quantifying the relationship between spike patterns and LFP/ECoG data • Optimization and adaptation of neuronal network model in NEST for the comparison of experimental and simulated activity data • Implementation of data analysis tools in Python and integration of the codes into the shared analysis library Elephant • Contribution to the data analysis pipeline, under FAIR principles • Cooperation with experimental collaboration partners • Integration of the work into Ebrains / HBP • Presentation of project results at international conferences • Scientific and administrative project coordination • Support in the supervision of PhD students Your Profile: • MSc in physics, data science, mathematics or computer science; PhD in computational neuroscience, applied mathematics, physics or related • Detailed knowledge of neuroscientific concepts, especially in neuronal dynamics, statistical analysis of neuronal activity and dynamics • Expertise in network modelling at different spatial levels • Experience with large-scale data-science activities and scientific programming, especially Python • Fluent in spoken and written English • Experience in scientific publishing in a related field • Proactive working style, confident appearance and communication skills, high social competence and ability to work cooperatively in a team The position is initially for a fixed term of 2 Jahre years. Salary and benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD, salary grade 13-14). FZ Jülich promotes equal opportunities and diversity in its employment relations. We also welcome applications from disabled persons. Please apply via our recruitment system<https://www.fz-juelich.de/portal/EN/Careers/application/_node.html?cms_hre_…> under reference number: 2021-323. Martina Reske -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nov. 2, 2021

The Gatsby Unit PhD programme

by Maneesh Sahani

Applications for the 2022 PhD Programme in theoretical neuroscience or machine learning at the Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit are currently open. Please send us your application by 14th November 2021 following the link on this page: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/study-and-work/phd-programme/applications The Gatsby Unit is a research centre at University College London focusing on theoretical and computational neuroscience, computational statistics, machine learning and artificial intelligence; threads that are drawn together by our focus on the mathematical foundations of adaptive intelligent behaviour. We specialize in research and research training: We have a PhD programme and postdoctoral trainees, but no undergraduate or MSc programme. Our PhD programme provides a rigorous preparation for a research career. Although each student eventually chooses an advisor, the programme is highly interactive, and the Unit functions more like a single large research group loosely divided into subgroups than a regular university department. Many leading researchers in both machine learning and neuroscience have studied or worked here. Overall, about 2/3 of our alumni are in academia, many of them faculty members at the world's leading universities; others have founded companies (including DeepMind); and almost all are active in research. You can see our network of alumni here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/greater-gatsby Full funding is available to all students, regardless of nationality. Gatsby PhD studentships cover the cost of tuition at the appropriate rate, and include a tax-free stipend, presently £24,000 per annum. The Unit also welcomes applications from students with pre-secured funding or who are currently soliciting other scholarship/studentships. Further information on the programme can be found here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/study-and-work/phd-programme We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups. Questions should be directed to admissions(a)gatsby.ucl.ac.uk

Nov. 2, 2021

Master in Brain and Cognition, Barcelona

by Ruben Moreno Bote

Enrollment period for the Master in Brain and Cognition open! For Comp Neuro lovers! https:/https://www.upf.edu/web/mbc Why our master? (1) Barcelona, (2) Albert Compte + Gustavo Deco + Alex Hyafil + Klaus Wimmer + myself (Ruben Moreno-Bote) + top others, (3) hands-on teaching, with a 2-trimesters long project, (4) 2 new courses: "The Neural Basis of Memory" by Compte, and "The Brain in Action, Decision Making" by myself (5) highly international students (80% from abroad) + in English + highly competitive (accept only 25, typically from a list of 120 candidates) -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn https://twitter.com/morenobote <https://twitter.com/morenobote?lang=ca>

Nov. 2, 2021

job: machine learning research scientist at NIMH

by Francisco Pereira

## HIRING: machine learning research scientist The Machine Learning Team at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, MD, has an open position for a machine learning research scientist. The NIMH is the leading federal agency for research on mental disorders and neuroscience, and part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). ## About the NIMH Machine Learning Team Our mission is to help NIMH scientists use machine learning methods to address research problems in clinical and cognitive psychology and neuroscience. These range from identifying biomarkers for aiding diagnoses to creating and testing models of mental processes in healthy subjects. Our overarching goal is to use machine learning to improve every aspect of the scientific effort, from helping discover or develop theories to generating actionable results. We work with many different data types, including very large brain imaging datasets from various imaging modalities, behavioral data, and picture and text corpora. We have excellent computational resources, both of our own (tens of high-end GPUs for deep learning, several large servers) and shared within the NIH (a cluster with hundreds of thousands of CPUs, and hundreds of GPUs). As a machine learning research group, we develop new methods and publish in the main machine learning conferences (e.g. NeurIPS and ICLR), as well as in psychology and neuroscience journals. Many of our problems require devising research approaches that combine imaging and non-imaging data, and leveraging structured knowledge resources (databases, scientific literature, etc) to generate explanations and hypotheses. You can find more about our work and recent publications at https://cmn.nimh.nih.gov/mlt ## About the position We are seeking candidates who are capable of combining machine learning, statistical, and domain-specific computational tools to solve practical data analysis challenges (e.g. designing experiments, generating and testing statistical hypotheses, training and interpreting predictive models, and developing novel models and methods). Additionally, candidates should be capable of visualizing and communicating findings to a broad scientific audience, as well as explaining the details of relevant methods to researchers in a variety of domains. Desirable experience that is not required, but will be considered very favorably: - deep learning - reinforcement learning - Bayesian statistical modelling - other types of modelling of human/animal learning and decision-making - neuroimaging data processing/ analysis (any MRI modality, MEG, or EEG) - other types of neural data (e.g. neural recording, calcium imaging) in the context of substantial research projects, ideally having led to submitted or published articles. Finally, you should have demonstrable experience programming in languages currently used in data-intensive, scientific computing, such as Python, MATLAB or R. Experience with handling large datasets in high performance computing settings is also very valuable. Although this position requires a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline, we will consider applicants from a variety of backgrounds, as their research experience is the most important factor. Backgrounds of team members include computer science, statistics, mathematics, and biomedical engineering. This is an ideal position for someone who wants to establish a research career in method development and applications driven by scientific and clinical needs. Given our access to a variety of collaborators and large or unique datasets, there is ample opportunity to match research interests with novel research problems. We also maintain collaborations outside of the NIH, driven by our own research interests or community impact. If you would like to be considered for this position, please send francisco.pereira(a)nih.gov a CV, with your email serving as cover letter. We especially encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups in the machine learning research community. If you already have a research statement, please feel free to send that as well. There is no need for reference letters at this stage. Other inquiries are also welcome. Thank you for your attention and interest!

Nov. 2, 2021

postdoc position on brain-machine interfaces at NYU & UO

by Luca Mazzucato

The Kiani (NYU) and Mazzucato (UO) labs are looking for a computational neuroscience postdoc to lead a project on closed-loop behavioral control in primates using a brain-machine interface. The candidate will develop a new theoretical framework to infer causal interactions from sparse sampling of large neural ensembles and deploy this method in the prefrontal cortex of behaving primates. The goal of this project is to innovate a technique for targeted manipulation of the prefrontal circuit and alter the monkey’s cognitive behavior in real-time, a key step toward advanced brain-machine interfaces and novel enhancing or therapeutic interventions in the human brain. The theory position will be co-supervised between the labs of Roozbeh Kiani at New York University and Luca Mazzucato at University of Oregon. The postdoc will be part of the vibrant neuroscience and machine learning communities at the Center for Neural Sciences (NYU) and at the Institute of Neuroscience (UO). The postdoc will be a member of the NSF-funded Accelnet consortium "International network for brain-inspired computation," fostering international collaborations between a large network of computational neuroscience/AI labs. Successful candidates will have a PhD in Physics, Neuroscience, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics or a related discipline and, preferably, working experience in theoretical neuroscience and deep learning. Our labs strongly advocate for inclusivity in science and we encourage applications from underrepresented groups. For informal inquiries about the position please contact Roozbeh Kiani or Luca Mazzucato. Application reviews will start on Nov. 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Roozbeh Kiani & Luca Mazzucato

Nov. 1, 2021