- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Post-doc Position in Open-Ended Deep Reinforcement Learning
by Jochen Triesch June 4, 2019

June 4, 2019

We have an opening for a post-doc position in my lab (http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/en/neuro/triesch) at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS) to study Open-Ended Deep Reinforcement Learning in simulated robots. We study systems that effectively learn to control their bodies and their environment by defining their own learning goals, practicing the skills for achieving these goals and setting themselves progressively harder goals. The work will be performed in the context of the European GOAL-Robots project (http://www.goal-robots.eu) For a quick overview of the project, check out this video: https://youtu.be/sordZmyp8u8. The focus of this post-doc position will be on simulated humanoids learning visually guided object interaction. We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated post-doc for this project. Applicants should have obtained a PhD in Machine Learning, Robotics, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate will have excellent programming and analytic skills and a broad knowledge of machine learning, robotics, and vision. An interest in cognitive development in human infants is a plus. The Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (https://fias.institute/en/) is a research institution dedicated to fundamental theoretical research in various areas of science. The city of Frankfurt is the hub of one of the most vibrant metropolitan areas in Europe. It boasts a rich culture and arts community and repeatedly earns high rankings in worldwide surveys of quality of living. Applications should be sent as a single pdf file to triesch(a)fias.uni-frankfurt.de. Please include a brief statement of research interests, CV, and contact information for at least two references. The position can be filled immediately and applications will be reviewed on a continuing basis. The initial appointment will be for one year. -- Prof. Dr. Jochen Triesch Johanna Quandt Research Professor Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/~triesch/ Tel: +49 (0)69 798-47531 Fax: +49 (0)69 798-47611

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one postdoc position on testing models of mood and meta-cognition through large scale mobile platform - UPF & Telefonica Alpha (Barcelona)
by Alexandre Hyafil June 4, 2019

June 4, 2019

One fully funded postdoc position is available under the supervision of Rubén Moreno Bote and Alexandre Hyafil jointly between University Pompeu Fabra (UPF) and the innovation facility Alpha powered by Telefonica, both in Barcelona, Spain. The position involves part time at the Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience group at the *Center for Brain and Cognition* (UPF)( https://www.upf.edu/web/ruben-moreno-bote) and at Alpha (www.alpha.company/) Alpha was established by Telefonica in January 2016 to address some of the biggest problems in society by conceiving and delivering radical solutions and breakthrough technology. The candidate will use psychophysics tasks on a large-scale mobile platform with >5k users to track the dynamics of meta-cognition and mood across various days. Candidates should have a PhD and expertise in Computational Neuroscience, Cognitive neuroscience or Cognitive psychology. Ideally he/she should have ample experience with psychophysics and sophisticated data analysis / machine learning techniques. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience. Our lab forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Candidates, please send a CV, letter of motivation and contact emails for references to alexandre.hyafil(a)upf.edu. Informal enquiries are recommended. Gross salary: 36 k€/year. Deadline: until the position is filled. Starting date: as soon as possible. Initial appointment is for one year.

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Independent Research Fellow in Neural Data Science (UK)
by Mark Humphries June 3, 2019

June 3, 2019

The University of Nottingham is investing in a major new research capacity in computational neuroscience. As part of this investment, we seek applications for a 2-year independent fellowship in Neural Data Science. The position is ideal for researchers with a clear vision to start their own research programme in a supportive, multi-disciplinary environment. We seek candidates positioned to join us in advancing the field of neural data science. This newly emerging discipline develops and uses the full gamut of modern computational techniques on neural data, to answer scientific questions about the brain. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a track record of quality research, and be able to independently manage their research. The Fellow will be attached to the Humphries's lab (https://www.humphries-lab.org/) for mentoring and scientific guidance, but work independently. For more on neural data science, see our guide: https://medium.com/the-spike/a-neural-data-science-how-and-why-d7e3969086f2 For full details of the role and to apply: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/SCI168019 Please send informal enquiries to Professor Mark Humphries: mark.humphries(a)nottingham.ac.uk 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.

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Full-Time Research Assistant (RA)/ Lab Manager at Max Planck Institute, Research Group of Lucia Melloni
by Lucia Melloni June 1, 2019

June 1, 2019

We are hiring! Come join us as a Research Assistant/Lab Manager We are looking for a passionate and talented Lab Manager to join the research group of Lucia Melloni at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics (Frankfurt am Main, Germany). Our lab is interested in understanding why we perceive and remember the way we do, and specifically why we are conscious. To tackle those questions we use a range of methods including psychophysics, magnetoencephalography, functional magnetic resonance imaging, and invasive recordings in epilepsy patients. The lab manager is expected to provide support for research activities carried out in the lab but also to pursue research projects of his/her own. The position is particularly suited for a recent graduate from a Neuroscience, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Computer Science or related program who is seeking to work in an innovative research environment in preparation for graduate school. A two-year commitment is expected; the anticipated start date is August 2019 or soon after. Interested applicants are welcome to email Lucia Melloni directly for enquiries regarding the position (lucia.melloni(a)ae.mpg <mailto:lucia.melloni@ae.mpg>.de). Please submit your application, including a CV and a cover letter describing your background, experience and motivation - preferably in pdf format, and the names of two references that have previously agreed to be contacted no later than June 24, 2019, to: job(a)ae.mpg.de <mailto:job@ae.mpg.de> and lucia.melloni(a)ae.mpg.de <mailto:lucia.melloni@ae.mpg.de> with the subject Lab Manager L.Melloni For the full job description please see here <https://www.aesthetics.mpg.de/institut/jobs/lab-manager-neuroscience-fmd.ht…>: https://www.aesthetics.mpg.de/institut/jobs/lab-manager-neuroscience-fmd.ht… <https://www.aesthetics.mpg.de/institut/jobs/lab-manager-neuroscience-fmd.ht…>

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6th ESI Systems Neuroscience Conference "The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality". Registration + Abstract submission are now open
by MFES, events May 31, 2019

May 31, 2019

6th ESI Systems Neuroscience Conference "The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality" 5-6 September 2019 Frankfurt am Main, Germany =========================================== The Ernst Strüngmann Institute Systems Neuroscience Conference (ESI SyNC) 2019 will take place this year on September 5th and 6th at the Ernst Strüngmann Institute in Frankfurt, Germany. This year's theme is 'The recurrent cortex: feedback, dynamics, and dimensionality'. The conference will feature eleven internationally renowned speakers who will give talks on neural feedback, signal dimensionality, and temporal dynamics. Ample time for both formal and informal discussion has been included in the schedule. There will also be a poster session for which we welcome submissions. Confirmed speakers =========================================== Sacha van Albada Alessandra Angelucci Carina Curto Peter Dayan Thomas Fraps Nikolaus Kriegeskorte Jakob Macke Tatyana Sharpee Fred Wolf Rafael Yuste Li Zhaoping Registration and abstract submission are now open! =========================================== For more information and to register for the conference or submit a poster presentation, please visit: www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/<http://www.esi-frankfurt.de/esisync/> Or contact: esi-sync(a)esi-frankfurt.de<mailto:esi-sync@esi-frankfurt.de> Limited spaces are available, so early registration is encouraged. Best Regards, The ESI SyNC 2019 organizing team: Wolf Singer Pascal Fries Renata Vajda William Barnes Christini Katsanevaki Katharine Shapcott Cem Uran Yiling Yang

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Threshold Networks conference - Nottingham
by Stephen Coombes May 30, 2019

May 30, 2019

Threshold Networks July 22 - 24, 2019 Nottingham, UK https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/conference/fac-sci/maths-sci/threshold-network… <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notti…> This workshop will bring together a community of people interested in both networks and dynamics, with an eye to both mathematical tractability and applications to biology, engineering, physics, and the social sciences. The emphasis will be on ‘thresholds’ in their broadest sense as exemplified by node dynamics or interactions that are described by simple, yet possibly non-smooth or discontinuous switch-like processes. The workshop will cover both theory and applications. The meeting will have no parallel sessions, and it is expected to involve around 60 participants (with 11 main speakers) and contributed poster presentations. Speakers: Chris Bick, University of Exeter, UK Mario Di Bernardo, University of Bristol, UK Ginestra Bianconi, Queen Mary University of London, UK Jonathan Crofts, Nottingham Trent University, UK Des Higham, University of Strathclyde, UK Renaud Lambiotte, University of Oxford, UK Naoki Masuda, University of Bristol, UK Peter Mucha, University of North Carolina, USA Sarah Muldoon, University at Buffalo, USA Yamir Moreno, University of Zaragoza, Spain Mason Porter, UCLA, USA We are accepting abstracts for poster presentations at ThresholdNetworks2019(a)nottingham.ac.uk <mailto:ThresholdNetworks2019@nottingham.ac.uk> The registration fee for the conference is 100.00 GBP. A “Tutorial Day” (covering key concepts in dynamical systems and network science) will also take place prior to the meeting (on July 21). Some financial assistance may be available to assist graduate students who attend both the training workshop and the conference. Further details of this meeting and how to register may be found at https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/conference/fac-sci/maths-sci/threshold-network… <https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.notti…> Scientific Organisers Yi Ming Lai, Rüdiger Thul, and Stephen Coombes, University of Nottingham Mason A. Porter, UCLA Enquiries should be sent to: ThresholdNetworks2019(a)nottingham.ac.uk <mailto:ThresholdNetworks2019@nottingham.ac.uk> 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.

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Call for abstracts: RSS2019 Workshop "Pervasively Neuro-Dynamic Robotics"
by Yulia Sandamirskaya May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Dear Colleagues, we are excited to invite you to attend the Workshop “Pervasively Neuro-Dynamic Robotics: Do insights from neuroscience, cognitive science, and neuromorphic engineering lead to a radically new vision?”: https://www.ini.rub.de/rss2019-workshop/ <https://www.ini.rub.de/rss2019-workshop/> The workshop will be held on June 23 (afternoon) 2019 in Freiburg, Germany, as part of the Robotics Science and Systems (RSS) 2019 conference: http://www.roboticsconference.org <http://www.roboticsconference.org/> We invite submissions of 1-2 page abtracts describing recent work on neuronal and cognitive architectures than emphasize autonomy of behavior generation. The selected abstracts will be invited to be presented as a Demo showing autonomous generation of behavior and/or Poster showing a recent example of a neuronal cognitive architecture You can submit your abstract by email to ysandamirskaya(a)ini.uzh.ch <mailto:ysandamirskaya@ini.uzh.ch> . Please, make sure that your submission contains your institutional address. If you like, you can attach a photo, which we will upload on the Workshop's webpage. Deadline for submission: 8. June 2019! Decisions will be announce on June 10. We are looking forward to your submissions and our discussions during the workshop! Yulia Sandamirskaya and Gregor Schöner — Workshop organisers — — Dr. Yulia Sandamirskaya Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI) UZH / ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich E-mail: ysandamirskaya(a)ini.uzh.ch <mailto:ysandamirskaya@ini.uzh.ch> Tel: +41 44 63 53045 www.sandamirskaya.eu <http://www.sandamirskaya.eu/> https://neurotechai.eu <https://neurotechai.eu/>

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Multiple postdoc positions uOttawa
by Richard Naud May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Multiple postdoc positions uOttawa Theoretical neuroscience, nonlinear/statistical physics, cellular electrophysiology and imaging, computational neuroscience University of Ottawa Multiple theoretical, computational and experimental neuroscience postdoctoral positions are available immediately at the Centre for Neural Dynamics of the University of Ottawa. Position 1: Theoretical neuroscience and nonlinear/statistical physics focusing on the dynamics of a population of core recurrent neurons within the hippocampus and their role in temporal and spatial memory. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. Len Maler, André Longtin and Jean-Claude Béïque. Position 2: Experimental and computational neuroscience focusing on dendritic integration. Expertise in cellular electrophysiology and/or computational neuroscience is an asset. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. Richard Naud and Jean-Claude Béïque. Position 3: Computational and experimental neuroscience focusing on dendritic integration and recurrent circuitry. Expertise in cellular electrophysiology and/or computational neuroscience is an asset. The candidate will be involved in collaborations between Profs. André Longtin, Richard Naud, Jean-Claude Béïque and Len Maler. The researcher will join uOttawa’s Brain and Mind Research Institute’s Center for Neural Dynamics. uOttawa’s Neuroscience community is fast expanding, highly dynamic and offers a rich array of collaborative opportunities. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a green, multi-cultural city that offers the highest standard of living in the country and is second worldwide for quality of life (Numbeo index, 2015). The city has many parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal, and is surrounded by an extensive greenbelt and the vast Gatineau Park twenty minutes away. This bilingual, safe and culturally-rich city lies along the border between the provinces of Ontario and Québec, is a few hours of driving away from Montréal and Toronto and served by an international airport. Each position is for one year with automatic renewal for a second year following satisfactory progress, and a possible extension to a third year. Interested candidates should submit their CV and a brief statement of research interests to alongtin(a)uottawa.ca<mailto:alongtin@uottawa.ca> . The successful candidate would be a salaried employee of the University with a competitive remuneration and benefits package. Jean-Claude Béïque André Longtin Len Maler Richard Naud

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IBRO-SIMONS COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IMBIZO 2020 #isiCNI2020
by Antrobus, Alexander May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

We would like to draw your attention to the fourth IBRO-SIMONS COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IMBIZO #isiCNI2020 5 - 26 January 2020, Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town, South Africa http://imbizo.africa/ Application deadline: 30th June 2019 The #isiCNI2020 is a southern hemisphere summer school aiming to promote computational neuroscience in Africa. It will bring together international and local students under the tutelage of the world's leading experts in the field. Like its international sister courses, this three-week summer school aims to teach central ideas, methods, and practices of modern computational neuroscience through a combination of lectures and hands-on project work. Mornings will be devoted to lectures on topics across the breadth of experimental and computational neuroscience. The rest of the day will be spent working on research projects under the close supervision of expert tutors and faculty. Individual research projects will focus on the modelling of neurons, neural systems, behaviour, the analysis of state-of-the-art neural data, and the development of theories to explain experimental observations. Who should apply? This course is aimed at Masters and early-PhD level students though Honours or advanced undergraduates may also apply. Postdoctoral students who can motivate why the course would benefit them are also encouraged to apply, Students should have sufficient quantitative skills, (e.g. a background in mathematics, physics, computer science, statistics, engineering or related field). Some knowledge of neural biology will be useful but not essential. Experimental neuroscience students are encouraged to apply, but should ensure that they have a reasonable level of quantitative proficiency (i.e. at least second-year level mathematics or statistics and have done at least one course in computer programming). Please distribute this information as widely as you can. Essential details * Fee (which covers tuition, lodging, and meals): 1100 EUR Thanks to out generous sponsors, significant financial assistance is available to reduce and waiver fees for students, particlualry for African applicants. We also hope to provide some travel bursaries for interrnational students. If you are in need of financial assistance to attend the Imbizo, please state so clearly in the relevant section of your application. * Application deadline: 30th June 2019 * Notification of results: late August 2019 Information and application https://imbizo.africa/<http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/> Questions? isicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com<mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com> What is an Imbizo? \ɪmˈbiːzɒ\ | Xhosa - Zulu A gathering of the people to share knowledge. INVITED FACULTY Dora Angelaki - Baylor College of Medicine Demba Ba - Harvard University Adrienne Fairhall - Washington University Ila Fiete - University of Texas Peter Latham - University College London Timothy Lillicrap - Google DeepMind Blake Richards - University of Toronto Joseph Raimondo - University of Cape Town Srikanth Ramaswamy - EPFL Lausanne Athanassia Papoutsi - IMBB-FORTH Thomas Tagoe - University of Ghana Andrew Trevelyan - Newcastle University Misha Tsodyks - Weiszmann Institute of Science Tim Vogels - University of Oxford Byron Yu - Carnegie Mellon University Organisers Christopher Currin (University of Cape Town, South Africa) Emma Vaughan (Conference Managemant Centre) DIRECTORS Peter Latham (Gatsby Unit for Computational Neuroscience, UCL, UK) Joseph Raimondo (University of Cape Town, South Africa) Tim Vogels (University of Oxford, UK) Sponsors The isiCNI is made possible by the generous support from the Simons Foundation (https://www.simonsfoundation.org<https://www.simonsfoundation.org/>) and the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO) (http://ibro.info<http://ibro.info/>) Organizational Affiliates University of Cape Town, University College London, University of Oxford, TReND in Africa<http://trendinafrica.org/>, CNCB<http://www.cncb.ox.ac.uk/>, Gatsby Foundation<http://www.gatsby.org.uk/>, IBRO African Center for Advanced Training in Neurosciences at UCT

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PhD positions in Neuromorphic olfaction
by Michael Schmuker May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

PhD positions in Neuromorphic machine learning, AI and robotics for chemical sensing Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire UK We are seeking candidates who want to join an international team of researchers with the goal to push the boundaries of chemical discovery. We use machine learning, AI and robotics to develop new methods for chemical sensing (electronic noses), gas-based navigation in robots, and knowledge discovery in chemical space. Our group leverages a new kind of computing hardware, so called neuromorphic systems, to translate processes from the brain into algorithms for efficient computing. We take inspiration from neuroscience to develop massively parallel, event-based, and power-efficient algorithms for machine learning, inference and control. Possible project topics include: * Bio-inspired signal processing and pattern recognition for chemical sensing, * Gas-based navigation for robots, * Deep learning for fragrance and aroma discovery, * Computing on neuromorphic hardware. Candidates with diverse skill profile are most welcome, e.g. with a background in: * Machine learning and AI, or * Neuroscience and neural computation, or * Signal processing and computer engineering, or * Fragrance/aroma chemistry and computational chemistry methods . Successful candidates are eligible for a research studentship award from the University (GBP 15,009 per annum bursary plus payment of the student fees). Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible, too. Please contact Dr Michael Schmuker for informal inquiries (m.schmuker(a)biomachinelearning.net ). Application forms and instructions how to apply are available under http://www.herts.ac.uk/apply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research… . The short-listing process will begin on 1 July 2019. — Dr Michael Schmuker AFHEA Reader in Data Science Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire https://biomachinelearning.net

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Research Fellow(s), Max Planck UCL Centre London
by Fischer, Susan May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

Research Fellow(s) Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology MAX PLANCK UCL CENTRE FOR COMPUTATIONAL PSYCHIATRY AND AGEING At the Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, we are seeking multiple suitably qualified postdoctoral fellows for a new initiative with Telefónica Innovación Alpha. The overarching goal is to exploit computational approaches to brain and behaviour to leverage insights into core deficits that underpin behavioural change and mental well-being. The postholder will be directly involved in tech-transfer of the research results achieving an immediate real-world impact and improving mental health of the general population. Supervision will be provided by Ray Dolan, Steve Fleming, Tobias Hauser, Quentin Huys, and Robb Rutledge. Applicants must have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in neuroscience, psychology, or a quantitative field (e.g. Computer Science, Engineering, Physics). Expertise using computational approaches in the study of reinforcement learning and decision making or expertise with machine learning techniques is essential, so is knowledge of theoretical and computational neuroscience in relation to learning and decision making. Experience in fMRI and/or MEG is desirable. Experience in smartphone-based data acquisition and in collaborating with industry and start-ups and/or in supporting tech-transfer is desirable. Positions are available as soon as possible and are funded for 2 years in the first instance. Starting salary on the UCL Grade 7 scale, £35,328 – £42,701 pa, inclusive of London Allowance, superannuable. You should apply for this post through UCL's online recruitment – www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs<http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/jobs> where you can download a job description and person specification using ref: 1803769. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Miss E Bertram, Personnel Manager, UCL Institute of Neurology, (email: IoN.HRAdmin(a)ucl.ac.uk<mailto:IoN.HRAdmin@ucl.ac.uk>). It would be helpful if applicants could provide a telephone number that they can be contacted on during office hours. Applicants may contact Professor Ray Dolan directly (email: r.dolan(a)ucl.ac.uk<mailto:r.dolan@ucl.ac.uk>) for further information. Closing date: 2 June 2019 ________________________________ Susan Fischer Research Coordinator (London) Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research Russell Square House 10-12 Russell Square London, WC1B 5EH Tel: +44 (0)207 679 8187 https://www.mps-ucl-centre.mpg.de/en Follow us on Twitter: @MPC_CompPsych<https://twitter.com/MPC_CompPsych>

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[High Performance Computing] Become a specialist!
by Master in HPC May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

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Wellcome Trust funded four-year PhD programme in Neural Dynamics.
by Conor Houghton May 29, 2019

May 29, 2019

We are looking for applicants to the Neural Dynamics four-year PhD programme at the University of Bristol; this is to fill one place to join the cohort starting in September 2019. http://www.bristol.ac.uk/neural-dynamics/ <http://www.bristol.ac.uk/neural-dynamics/> We offer a generous four-year studentship stipend, PhD registration fees at the current Home/EU rate, substantial research expenses, and funds for travel to conferences or courses. We are able to waive the international fee for a successful international student. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 19 June 2019. All the best Conor Houghton

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Job Openings in Neuromorphic Computing
by Peter Blouw May 28, 2019

May 28, 2019

Applied Brain Research <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/> (ABR) is a company that develops software and builds AI applications <https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PL0Xs4sfQU-Q1MeTNaizzFWYv1Xz3ua7ZA&v=mua…>using neuromorphic methods and hardware. Our fifteen person team spun out of a computational neuroscience lab at the University of Waterloo, and works with world leading industrial partners and has early access to cutting edge technology to develop the next generation of AI hardware <https://vimeo.com/262517015>. We are growing. We are looking to hire for two positions: an FPGA Design Engineer <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/careers/?jobId=85z2t_rOLoOR>, and a Machine Learning Engineer <https://appliedbrainresearch.com/careers/?jobId=pyH1jqKudezj>. Further details about each position can be found by following the links above. For any general questions, feel free to contact info(a)appliedbrainresearch.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Barcelona summer school for Advanced Modelling of Behavior (BAMB!) - Application deadline June 3
by Klaus Wimmer May 28, 2019

May 28, 2019

Applications to the new Barcelona summer school for Advanced Modelling of Behavior (BAMB! <http://www.bambschool.org>) are open until June 3rd. Please see the course website for further details: www.bambschool.org. BAMB! <http://www.bambschool.org> teaches advanced techniques in model-based analysis of behavior (humans and other species) to cognitive and computational neuroscientists at PhD and early career levels. This will be achieved through structured lectures, talks, hands-on tutorials and group project aimed at making knowledge obtained directly applicable to the participants' own research. We want the trainees to acquire both the conceptual bases and the technical skills that will enable them to pursue a full modelling approach on their own when they come back to their lab. The course is intended for PhD students and postdocs in cognitive and computational neuroscience with solid background in computational/quantitative analysis to benefit maximally from the advanced training offered by the course. Proficiency in either Python or Matlab is also required. We will seek a nice blend of experimentalists (cognitive psychology / neuroscience) and theoreticians (with or without experience in cognitive modeling).Female scientists and scientists from underrepresented countries are especially encouraged to apply. Dates and location: September 4-10, downtown Barcelona, Spain Organizers: Chris Summerfield (Oxford / Deepmind) Klaus Wimmer (CRM, Barcelona) Alex Hyafil (UPF/CRM, Barcelona) Confirmed Faculty: Jean Daunizeau (ICM, Paris) Alex Hyafil (UPF/CRM, Barcelona) Kerstin Preuschoff (Geneva) Alfonso Renart (Champalimaud) Maneesh Sahani (UCL) Chris Summerfield (Oxford / Deepmind) Klaus Wimmer (CRM, Barcelona) Angela Yu (UC San Diego) The summer school benefits from the generous support of the William K. and Katherine W. Estes Fund <https://www.psychologicalscience.org/members/awards-and-honors/estes-fund>, from the Sociedad Española de Neurociencia <http://www.senc.es/> and from the Centre de Recerca Matemática <http://www.crm.cat>.

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[CALL FOR PAPERS] IEEE/WIC/ACM International Conference on Web Intelligence (WI'19) 14-17 OCTOBER 2019 Thessaloniki, GREECE
by Gigg Liu May 27, 2019

May 27, 2019

IEEE/WIC/ACM International Conference on Web Intelligence (WI'19) 14-17 OCTOBER 2019 Thessaloniki, GREECE https://webintelligence2019.com/ Sponsored By: Web Intelligence Consortium (WIC) Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) IEEE Computer Society In Cooperation With: Chinese Computer Federation (CCF) CALL FOR PAPERS Web has evolved as an omnipresent system which highly impacts science, education, industry and everyday life. Web is now a vast data production and consumption platform at which threads of data evolve from multiple devices, by different human interactions, over worldwide locations under divergent distributed settings. Such a dynamic complex system demands adaptive intelligent solutions, which will advance know-ledge, human interactions and innovation. Web intelligence is now a cutting edge area which must address all open issues towards deepening the understanding of all Web’s entities, phenomena, and developments. The theme for the WI'19 is: "Web Intelligence = AI in the Connected World". The 18th Web Intelligence conference (WI'19) aims to achieve a multi-disciplinary balance between research and technological disruptive advances in the fields of how intelligence is impacting the Web of People, the Web of Data, the Web of Things, the Web of Trust, and the Web of Health. WI'19 welcomes research, application as well as Industry/Demo track paper submissions in these core thematic pillars under wider topics, which demand WI innovative and disruptive solutions for any of the next indicative sub-topics. Track 1: Web of People Social networks analytics Social media and dynamics User and behavioral modeling Human centric computing Opinion mining Recommendation engines Sentiment analysis Crowdsourcing and social data mining People oriented applications and services Track 2: Web of Data Data science and machine learning Big data analytics Data integration and data provenance Cognitive models Computational models Information search and retrieval Algorithms and knowledge management Knowledge bases and semantic networks Linked data management and analytics Data driven services and applications Track 3: Web of Things IoT data analytics Web infrastructures and devices Mobile web Distributed systems and devices Open autonomous systems Industrial multi-domain web Streaming data analysis Smart city applications and services Track 4: Web of Trust Hidden web analytics Blockchain analytics and technologies Web-scale security, integrity, privacy and trust Web cryptography Fake content and fraud detection Web safety and openness Monetization services and applications Track 5: Web of Health Personalized health management and analytics Health data exchange and sharing Big data in medicine Wellbeing and healthcare in the digital era Omics research and trends Healthcare and medical applications and services The Program Chairs are soliciting contributed technical papers for presentation at the Conference and publication in the Conference Proceedings by ACM. PAPER SUBMISSION Please follow guidelines: https://wi-lab.com/cyberchair/2019/wi19/scripts/submit.php?subarea=Wr/. Papers must be submitted electronically via Cyberchair in standard ACM format (max 8 pages). Submitted papers will undergo a peer review process, coordinated by the International Program Committee. ORGANIZATION General Chairs Georg Gottlob, UK Yannis Manolopoulos, Cyprus Program Chairs Payam Barnaghi, UK Athena Vakali, Greece Steering Committee Chairs Jiming Liu, HK, China Ning Zhong, Japan Track Chairs Panagiotis Bamidis, Greece Marios Dikaiakos, Cyprus Elena Ferrari, Italy Josiane Xavier Parreira, Ireland Herman Purohit, USA Workshop Chairs Dimitrios Katsaros, Greece Rahul Pandey, USA Demo Chairs Amelie Gyrard, USA George Pallis, Cyprus Proceedings Editor Theodoros Tzouramanis, Greece Publicity Chairs Karin Becker, Brasil Leonidas Anthopoulos, Greece Yang Liu, Hong Kong Xujuan Zhou, Australia

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Post-doc in Computational Neuroimaging of Decision-Making
by Yannis Delis May 26, 2019

May 26, 2019

We are looking to appoint a postdoctoral fellow to make a leading contribution to an EU-funded project on the neurobiology of human decision making. The post will be based at the School of Biomedical Sciences of the University of Leeds. The aim of our research is to characterise the spatiotemporal dynamics and the computational principles of the brain networks underlying the processing of multisensory information, the formation of perceptual decisions and the execution of subsequent actions. To this end, we use multimodal recordings including neuroimaging (EEG), motor signals (EMGs and kinematics) and behavioural data coupled with advanced multivariate analysis methods and computational modelling. We develop computational methodologies inspired by machine learning, statistical signal processing, information theory and Bayesian modelling to fuse data from different modalities, extract the main patterns of brain activity and characterise their functional roles with respect to the task at hand. The goal of this project will be to unravel the neural representations of the mental processes implicated in the processing of (multi-)sensory information and the formation of perceptual decisions. Candidates must have previous practical experience in EEG recordings and data analysis as evident by a strong track record of publications in international journals. Working knowledge of multivariate data analysis techniques and excellent programming skills in Matlab and/or Python are highly desirable. Interested candidates are invited to contact Dr. Ioannis Delis (*i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk <i.delis(a)leeds.ac.uk>*), email their CV and briefly explain their interest in this position. Starting date is flexible.

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ReScience C : special issue on 2019 ICLR Reproducibility Challenge in machine learning
by Nicolas Rougier May 23, 2019

May 23, 2019

Dear all, It’s my great pleasure to announce that selected papers from the 2019 ICLR Reproducibility Challenge in machine learning (coordinated by J.Pineau) have been published in ReScience C and are freely accessible at: ReScience C, volume 5, issue 2 (2019), ICLR Reproducibility Challenge 2019 https://rescience.github.io/read/#volume-5-2019. If you’re interested in organizing a challenge or editing a special issue, feel free to contact me. Nicolas Rougier, ReScience C editor-in-chief.

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Call for Papers: Special Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience"
by Dimitrije Markovic May 22, 2019

May 22, 2019

Dear Colleagues, You are cordially invited to submit a manuscript to Special Entropy Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience" https://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy/special_issues/Computational_Neuroscie… Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2020 With best regards, Claudius Gros and Dimitrije Markovic Abstract ====== Brains empower living organisms with extraordinary information processing capabilities. Complex spatio-temporal dependencies present in their environments may be learned, long- and short-term memories of experiences and plans regarding the future. Importantly, information processing in the brain happens over multiple spatio-temporal scales, from single synapses and synaptic terminals to dendritic trees and neuronal bodies, all the way up to neuronal networks and large brain areas. Hence, it is not surprising that information theory has led to many exciting developments in computational neuroscience, providing tools essential for our modern understanding of the computational principles that govern the development, structure, physiology, and dynamics of the nervous system. In this Special Issue, we aim to bring together neuronal models and neuronal plasticity mechanisms that are grounded in information theory principles, modern inference, and learning algorithms. We welcome submissions that use information theory as the basis for defining generative principles of neuronal dynamics over multiple spatio-temporal scales, which informs our understanding of information processing in the brain. ============================= Dr. Dimitrije Markovic Post-Doc at Technische Universität Dresden, Department of Psychology, Dresden, Germany Lab website: https://tu-dresden.de/mn/psychologie/ifap/ni Phone: +49-351-463-43146 Personal website: http://dimarkov.github.io/ =============================

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Post-doctoral post in Madrid Brain Dynamics of addiction
by jose luis perez velazquez May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

*Post-Doc position*: *Dynamics of brain activity in addiction and compulsive reward-seeking* Responsible for electrophysiological recordings in behaving animals (rats) using rodent models of reward-seeking and addiction. One year*, starting immediately* Location: Madrid-Spain Dedication: Full time Experience with in vivo electrophysiological recordings in freely behaving animals is required. It would be an asset if the incumbent has some experience with the Skinner box, but is not required (teaching will be provided). Data analysis will involve the scrutiny of brain dynamic patterns in the rodents’ brains during addictive behaviours, using MATLAB codes already available from the investigators. Experience with basic data analysis will be an advantage as well. Contact: Fivos Panetsos, Professor fivos(a)ucm.es Director, Neuro-computing & Neuro-robotics Research Group Complutense University of Madrid Director, Neural Plasticity Research Group Health Research Institute, San Carlos Clinical Hospital (IdISSC), Madrid

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ICTALS 2019 registration open
by Goodfellow, Marc May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

Dear All, Registration is now open for ICTALS 2019 at the University of Exeter 2-5th September 2019. Please see: www.exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019/registration/<http://www.exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019/registration/> Early bird registration is open until 31 July 2019 at the following rates: Students £250 Faculty/ Clinician £400 Industry £500 Lived experience (non-scientist) £30 for the first 20 registrants. Spaces are limited, so we would encourage you to register as soon as possible. The International Conference for Technology and AnaLysis of Seizures, 2019 (ICTALS2019) will take place at the University of Exeter, September 2nd - 5th 2019. The goal of this conference is to bring together neurologists, neuroscientists, researchers from quantitative disciplines and people with lived experience of epilepsy in order to work as a community to advance our understanding of epilepsy and develop practical ways to improve diagnosis and treatment. This is the second ICTALS conference, which is an evolution of the previous International Workshop on Seizure Prediction (IWSP) series. The theme for this year's conference will be: "The Epilepsy Journey: from first seizure to treatment and beyond". We will emphasise how advances in our understanding of the dynamics of brain networks can be used to make a difference to people with epilepsy at all points of their journey: from elucidating the causes of the first seizure to diagnosing epilepsy, understanding how ictogenic networks give rise to recurrent seizures and how this insight can inform personalised treatment. To encourage this focus on translatable output of research we will seek to include all relevant communities. In addition to focussing on current scientific, clinical and technological advances, we will take steps to increase accessibility for people with lived experience of epilepsy. For further information see http://exeter.ac.uk/ictals2019 We look forward to seeing you in Exeter in September! Best wishes Marc Goodfellow, on behalf of the local organising committee.

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Places left for training courses before INCF's Neuroinformatics 2019
by Malin Sandström May 21, 2019

May 21, 2019

Dear all, there are still som places left for the (free) training courses we are arranging in Warsaw on August 31, the day before Neuroinformatics 2019. All courses are free to attend for registered participants. The TVB WS explains fundamental principles of full brain network modelling using the TVB open source neuroinformatics platform. Lectures & hands-on sessions allow participants to immediately apply concepts from the lectures to their simulations. http://bit.ly/2Hs9L7h The HBPBrainSim short course introduces participants to the Brain Simulation Platform (BSP). After the course participants will be able to use the BSP to access HPC systems to configure & run simulations and visualize & analyze simulation results. http://bit.ly/2Ht7AQN The course ‘Neuroscience data integration through use of digital brain atlases’, a combination of lectures & hands-on training, introduces participants to a workflow for spatial integration of morphological features in a 3D reference atlas. http://bit.ly/2HqnPOh See https://www.neuroinformatics2019.org/ for more information. Best regards, Malin -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org

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PhD position in computational neuroscience at the University of Amsterdam (deadline June 6)
by Jorge Mejias May 20, 2019

May 20, 2019

Dear all, A PhD position in computational neuroscience is available at the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group at the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands). The main objective of the project is to investigate the neural mechanisms of multisensory perception and sensory predictions, within the context of a novel theoretical framework of perception and consciousness that is being developed in the Group. These neural mechanisms will be investigated using theoretical and computational approaches based on both biophysically detailed models of corticothalamic circuits and neural network models trained with deep learning strategies. The research is partially funded by the Human Brain Project and will benefit from collaborations with local experimental teams and with other European research groups. The project will be supervised by Jorge Mejias (leader of the Computational Neuroscience Team) and Cyriel Pennartz (head of the Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group). We are seeking a highly qualified and motivated candidate with a Master's degree in neuroscience (with strongly developed quantitative skills) or in a related field, including physics, mathematics, computer science, or biomedical engineering. The candidate is expected to have a solid mathematical background (calculus, differential equations, dynamical systems) and strong programming skills (MATLAB, Python). Knowledge in methods of computational neuroscience and deep learning is a plus. English is the official language of the lab, therefore good English communication skills are expected. We offer a full-time appointment for a maximum period of four years (18 months plus a further 30 months after a positive performance evaluation) and should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance to courses and (international) meetings. The gross monthly salary will range from €2,325 in the first year to €2,972 in the final year, according to the Dutch salary scale for PhD candidates. Additional benefits include a holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus (8% and 8.3% of the gross annual salary, respectively) and generous vacation, pension and social security conditions in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. Candidates coming from abroad might also be eligible for highly attractive tax benefits. The lab is located in the state-of-the art facilities of the Science Park at the University of Amsterdam, with good communications with other academic facilities and research centers in the city. The University of Amsterdam is one of the top research universities in Europe, with a strong focus on the research area of brain and cognition. Amsterdam is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with a rich historical and cultural heritage that includes the UNESCO World Heritage city center and canals, dozens of world-class museums and restaurants, and an exciting nightlife. The city promotes a healthy lifestyle with plenty of outdoor life, parks and recreational areas, an excellent bicycle path network, and an expat-friendly environment. The deadline for applications is June 6th, 2019. Applications may only be submitted online by following the link below (where additional information is also provided): https://www.uva.nl/en/content/vacancies/2019/05/19-292-phd-candidate-in-com… Your application must include a CV (including contact details of two academic references) and a letter of motivation. Please combine these documents in one single attachment and also mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience. To enable us to process your application immediately, please quote vacancy number 19-292 and the position you are applying for. For informal inquiries, you may contact Dr. Jorge Mejias (j.f.mejias at uva.nl) of Prof. Cyriel Pennartz (C.M.A.Pennartz at uva.nl). Kind regards, Jorge F. Mejias, PhD Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Group Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences Amsterdam, the Netherlands -- Jorge F. Mejias, PhD Assistant Professor Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences University of Amsterdam, 1098XH Amsterdam The Netherlands www.ugr.es/~jmejias

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Postdoc Position: Modeling Language in the Human Brain Using Artificial Neural Networks
by Christopher Honey May 19, 2019

May 19, 2019

MODELING LANGUAGE IN THE HUMAN BRAIN USING ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS A joint postdoctoral position is available in the labs of Christopher Honey and Tal Linzen at Johns Hopkins University. ( https://www.honeylab.org and https://caplabjhu.org ) The goal of this project is to use state-of-the-art artificial neural networks to understand the mechanisms and architectures that enable the human brain to integrate linguistic information at the levels of syllables, words and sentences. For this purpose, the project lead will have access to high-fidelity intracranial recordings from the surface of the human brain, as people process sentences and narratives. In parallel, this project is expected to generate new computational models and analytic methods for natural language processing (NLP), informed and constrained by human data. Johns Hopkins is home to a large and vibrant community in neuroscience and computational linguistics, and the training environment will span the Departments of Cognitive Science, Psychological & Brain Sciences, and Computer Science. The postdoctoral researcher will be affiliated with the Center for Language and Speech Processing, one of the world’s largest centers for computational linguistics (https://www.clsp.jhu.edu/) For candidates who wish to collect new datasets, Hopkins provides a top-notch neuroimaging center, including 3T and 7T scanners; new TMS and EEG facilities housed in the PBS department; and access to human intracranial experiments via neurology collaborators in Baltimore and Toronto. The postdoctoral researcher will have access to a large number of GPUs for training neural networks and other computational models through the Maryland Advanced Research Computing Center. The position is available immediately, though start date is somewhat flexible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The initial appointment is for one year, with the opportunity for renewal thereafter. We especially encourage applications from women and members of minorities that are underrepresented in science. *Qualifications*: Candidates should have (i) a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., linguistics, cognitive science, neuroscience, physics, psychology, mathematics, or computer science) by the start date; (ii) a publication record that includes computational modeling and empirical data analysis. The ideal candidate will have a combined background in computational linguistics, machine learning and neuroscience. *Application Instructions*: To apply, please email a cover letter (including a brief summary of previous research accomplishments and future plans), a current CV, and a relevant publication to neural.language.modeling.jhu(a)gmail.com. In the CV or cover letter, please include contact information for three references. For any questions, feel free to email Chris Honey (chris.honey(a)jhu.edu) and Tal Linzen ( tal.linzen(a)jhu.edu)

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Postdoc position on causal learning in France
by Mehdi Khamassi May 17, 2019

May 17, 2019

*Post-Doc position in Computational Neuroscience on causal learning * *Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et de Robotique, Paris (UMR7222)* *Groupe d'Analyse et de Théorie Economique, Lyon (UMR 5824)* *General Information* Workplace: LYON/PARIS Employer: CNRS Type of contract: FTC Scientist Contract Period: 18 or 24 months Expected date of employment: 2 September 2019 Proportion of work: Full time Remuneration: between 2643 and 3766 Euros gross monthly salary depending on the candidate’s experience Desired level of education: PhD Experience required: indifferent *Missions*: The objective of our project is to investigate the neural and computational bases of causal learning. In particular, we will focus on causal learning in the context of goal-directed instrumental behaviors, which rely on learning rules determined by the contingency//between actions and outcomes. In order to unravel the neural and computational bases of action-outcome causal learning, we need to lift two key barriers. The first barrier is the lack of neurocomputational models that formalise the above-mentioned theoretical framework to make precise predictions about the underlying neural computations. The second barrier is the lack of clear understanding of the brain network dynamics supporting action-outcome causal learning. *Activities: * The selected candidate will contribute to lift the first barrier, by developing neurocomputational models that: i) formalise internal representations and computations predicted by causal learning theories (/rational /and /Bayesian /frameworks); ii) make predictions about the dynamics of neural activity (i.e., neurobiological plausibility) and fit single-participant behavioral patterns (i.e., computational flexibility). Among the possible learning models, two seem to provide the adequate theoretical and computational framework: Active Inference and Reinforcement learning. The former is a Bayesian approach postulating that human behaviour can be reduced to the minimization of variational free energy, which is an upper bound on Shannon surprise (Friston, 2010). The latter provides a complementary view and formalizes human behavior as a process that aims at maximizing cumulative (extrinsic or intrinsic) reward (Sutton & Barto, 1998). The selected candidate will help designing a new experimental protocol to test the specific predictions of these computational frameworks, and compare them with Bayesian model comparison methods. The experiment will involve human subjects and be realized with the facilities of the GATE (Experimental Economics) laboratory in Lyon, France. Then we will derive a computational model which best accounts for human behavior while they learn causalities, and make model-driven predictions for a new task involving brain imaging (fMRI, MEG, SEEG) performed in humans by partners of the project. *Skills*: Applicants should be highly motivated, have a PhD in computational neuroscience, physics, computer science, or related fields, with a track record of publications. Confirmed experience in computational modelling and programming skills are mandatory. Preference will be given to applicants with previous experience in causal learning models in neurosciences. *Work context*: We have obtained funding from the French Agence Nationale de la Recherche for 4 years project aiming at lifting the previously mentioned two barriers. The project involves both theoreticians (Mateus Joffily in GATE, Lyon, France; Mehdi Khamassi in ISIR, Paris, France; David Lagnado in UCL, London, UK) and experimentalists (Andrea Brovelli in INT, Marseille, France; Julien Bastin in GIN, Grenoble, France). This 2 years post-doctoral research position is available to work at the interface between two laboratories: the GATE in Lyon and the ISIR in Paris. *Additional Information*: The position is available immediately and applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. The selected candidate will be hired for a period of 18 to 24 months with a salary corresponding to the level of research scientist according to the standards of the National Center of Scientific research (CNRS). Salary will include social security, health and retirement benefits. Applications should include: 1) a cover letter briefly describing experience, motivation and skills adapted for the position, as well as research interests; 2) complete CV and publication list; and 3) two letters of reference that should be sent directly to us by the evaluators. Notification of interest should be sent to both Mehdi Khamasi (mehdi.khamassi(a)upmc.fr <mailto:mehdi.khamassi@upmc.fr>) and Mateus Joffily (joffily(a)gate.cnrs.fr <mailto:joffily@gate.cnrs.fr>). Applications shall be done through the following website: https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UMR5824-TAIDAO-009/Default.aspx?lang=EN. -- Mehdi Khamassi, PhD, HDR Permanent research scientist (CRCN) at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institute of Intelligent Systems and Robotics Sorbonne Université, Paris, France http://www.isir.upmc.fr Director of Studies for the Cogmaster program Ecole Normale Supérieure, EHESS, Univ. Paris Descartes http://sapience.dec.ens.fr/cogmaster/www/ Visiting Researcher at the Institute of Communication and Computer Systems National Technical University of Athens, Greece https://www.iccs.gr/en/?noredirect=en_US Visiting Researcher at the Department of Experimental Psychology University of Oxford, UK https://www.psy.ox.ac.uk Main contact details: Mehdi Khamassi Sorbonne Université, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie - ISIR - BC 173 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France tel: + 33 1 44 27 28 85 cell: +33 6 50 76 44 92 email: mehdi.khamassi(a)upmc.fr http://people.isir.upmc.fr/khamassi

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