- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

3rd International MOBI Conference
by Daniel Ferris June 13, 2018

June 13, 2018

11 - 14 JULY, 2018 3RD INTERNATIONAL MOBILE BRAIN/BODY IMAGING CONFERENCE http://mobi2018.bpn.tu-berlin.de/ Berlin, Germany ______ Speakers Diane Damiano Chief of Functional & Applied Biomechanics NIH Arthur Kramer Professor of Psychology & Engineering, Northeastern University Scott Makeig Director Swartz Center for Computational Neuroscience Klaus Gramann Chair Biological Psychology and Neuroergonomics, Technical University Berlin Dan Ferris Robert W. Adenbaum Professor of Engineering Innovation, University of Florida Juliet King Director Art Therapy, Indiana University School of Medicine Stefan Debener Chair of Neuropsychology, University of Oldenburg John Foxe Killian J. and Caroline F. Schmitt Chair in Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical center Helen J. Huang Professor, University of Central Florida Jose Luis Contreras-Vidal Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished Professor, University of Houston Thorsten Zander CEO, Zander Laboratories B.V., Amsterdam, The Netehrlands Peter Koenig Chair Neurobiopsychology, University of Osnabrueck Girija Kaimal Professor Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University Tzyy-Ping Jung Co-Director Center for Advanced Neurological Engineering, UCSD Hirokazu Tanaka Professor School of Information Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology Paola Pinti Research Associate Dept. of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London Edmund Wascher Chair of Ergonomics, Leibnitz Research Center for Working Environments and Human Factors Janna Protzak Postdoctoral Researcher, Technische Universitaet Berlin Tim Mullen CEO Qusp Hasan Ayaz Professor School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University Julia Kline Senior Researcher Fitbit, San Francisco Guy Cheron Director Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, Université Libre de Bruxelles Eduardo Macagno Professor Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego Tal Shafir Research Fellow, The Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa Guido Orgs Lecturer, Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London Grainne McLoughlin Associate Professor, Cognitive Neuroscience, King’s College London Chin-Teng Lin Director, Computational Intelligence and Brain Computer Interfaces, University of Technology Sydney Martin Seeber Research Scientist, Functional Brain Mapping Lab, University of Geneva Stephanie Scott Researcher, Brain-Computer Interface Laboratory, Colorado State University Lewis Chuang Group leader, Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics Christer Ahlström Researcher, The Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute Sha Xin Wei Director School of Arts, Media + Engineering, Arizona State University Pierfilippo De Sanctis Professor Albert Einstein College New York Conny Kranczioch Research Scientist, Department of Psychology, University Oldenburg Simon Ladouce Impact Fellow, Department of Psychology, University of Stirling Angus Hunter Professor, Health and Sport Science, University of Stirling Hanna Poikonen Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki John Iversen Research Scientist, University of California San Diego Agnieszka Wykowska Social Cognition in Human-Robot Interaction, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genua Elsa Kirchner Robotics Lab, University of Bremen Andreas Mierau Exercise & Sport Science, LUNEX International University of Health, Luxembourg Nadja Schott Professor, Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences -- Daniel P. Ferris, Ph.D. Editor-In-Chief, IEEE-TNSRE editortnsre(a)gmail.com

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PhD position in neuromorphic engineering - Toulouse, France
by Timothée Masquelier June 12, 2018

June 12, 2018

Beating Roger Federer: Modeling visual learning and expertise through a bioinspired neural network embedded in an electronic device Goal: PhD grant. When: starting from September 2018 (date may be flexible to some extent) Topic: How do expert tennis players, like Roger Federer for example, predict if a ball will bounce in or out the field to decide if it should be played or not? After thousands of trajectory presentations, best champions have developed extraordinary skills in such a task, but little is known on how the visual system turns selective to spatiotemporal properties of the visual stimulus (e.g., 3D position, velocity and acceleration) and learns how to make an efficient use of it. The goal of the project is to build an embedded system – based on FPGA circuits and ARM processor – an artificial neural network which would replicate – and perhaps beat – the visual and anticipatory performances of these expert players. To achieve this goal successfully, we will develop a bio-inspired neural network, based on some of the key properties of human vision: the Smart NeuroCam (GST company) will be used to reproduce the retina functioning. It triggers its message under the form of spikes, in an asynchronous way (without any concept of frame per second), responding to spatial or temporal changes in the pattern of illumination. Several kinds of pre-processing filters can be implemented in VHDL language directly in the FPGA circuits, and the output is then sent to a neural network. The artificial network will learn to use this message, applying a simple learning rule, the Spike-Timing-Dependent Plasticity (STDP). This rule allows each neuron to become selective to a particular property of the stimulus, completely autonomously and with no supervision. Several layers will be built to allow perceiving more and more complex properties of the visual scene. Once the network will be established, its performances will be assessed in different conditions of learning and compared to those of the best tennis players. The project is funded by a French National Research Agency (ANR), involving two sites and several researchers: − Robin Baurès, Benoit Cottereau, Timothée Masquelier and Simon Thorpe, CerCo, Toulouse. − Michel Paindavoine, GST, Dijon. Where: The candidate will be based at CerCo, Toulouse (France), and will make the interface with the two sites, with regular trips. The computational neuroscience part will be done at Toulouse, and electronic part at Dijon. Tasks: − Matlab (or Python) based simulations of numerical filters. These filters will be applied to the image processing from which spikes are generated and then sent to feed the neural network and STDP learning mechanism. − VHDL coding to implement these numerical filters into the FPGA circuits of the cameras − C/C++ coding of the neural network and STDP mechanism that should work on an embedded ARM processor system − Experimental tests that will allow evaluating the performance of the whole system, from spikes generation to visual properties learning of the embedded system, to predict tennis ball’s trajectories Required skills: − Strong knowledge on electronic, and openness to computational neurosciences − Knowledge in signal-image processing, and artificial neural network − Interest for multidisciplinary research − Ability to turn smoothly autonomous, once the road has been set − Ability to be at the interface of two scientific fields and two working areas − Programming with Matlab and/or Python for simulating the neural network − Programming in VHDL language for FPGA circuits − Programming in C/C++ language for porting the algorithms on ARM microprocessors − French is not a requirement if fluent in English, but willingness to learn would be beneficial Citizenship Eligibility: For security / defense reasons, an evaluation will be made of the candidates before any possible acceptation. Relevant publications for the project: − Masquelier, T., Guyonneau, R. & Thorpe S.J. (2009). Competitive STDP-Based Spike Pattern Learning. Neural Comput, 21(5),1259-1276. − Masquelier, T. & Thorpe, S.J. (2007). Unsupervised learning of visual features through spike timing dependent plasticity. PLoS Comput Biol, 3(2):e31. − Cottereau, B.R., McKee, S.P. & Norcia, A.M. (2014). Dynamics and cortical distribution of neural responses to 2D and 3D motion in human. Journal of Neurophysiology 111(3), 533-543. − SmartNeuroCam de GST : https://gsensing.eu/fr/category/sections/products Contact: Robin Baurès, PhD Associate Professor CerCo, Université Toulouse 3, CNRS CHU Purpan, Pavillon Baudot 31059 Toulouse Cedex 9 – France Office phone: 0033 (0)5 62 74 62 15 Email : robin.baures(a)cnrs.fr Pr Michel Paindavoine GlobalSensing Technologies 14, rue Pierre de Coubertin 21000 Dijon email : michel.paindavoine(a)gsensing.eu -- Timothée Masquelier - timothee.masquelier(a)cnrs.fr - http://cerco.ups-tlse.fr/~masquelier/

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POSTDOCTORAL POSITION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
by Tatiana Pasternak June 11, 2018

June 11, 2018

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN THE NEUROSCIENCE OF PERCEPTUAL DECISIONS Postdoctoral position to study cortical circuitry underlying memory-guided perceptual decisions is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Tatiana Pasternak. Experimental approaches include extracellular multi-electrode recordings and inactivation of spiking and LFP activity from prefrontal and extrastriate visual cortical regions of non-human primates during complex behavioral tasks. An important component of the work is a collaboration involving computational modeling aimed at mechanisms underlying maintenance and utilization of visual information in decision-making. Preference will be given to candidates with strong quantitative background with experience in the analysis of physiological data and extracellular recordings. Applicants with strong background in related disciplines of systems neuroscience and/or computer science & engineering are welcome to apply. Experience with MATLAB/Python programming and proficient knowledge of the English language are required. The University of Rochester offers a stimulating research environment and excellent opportunities for interactions and training in cognitive neuroscience and visual science. Interested applicants should send CV and names/contact information of three references to Dr. Pasternak. Please include a cover letter detailing your current research activities, expertise and the reasons for your interest in this position. **************************************** Tatiana Pasternak, Ph.D. Professor Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience Departments of Neuroscience, Brain & Cognitive Science, Biomedical Engineering, and Center for Visual Science University of Rochester https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/labs/pasternak.aspx <https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/labs/pasternak.aspx>

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IBRO Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo 2019 - call for applications
by Antrobus, Alexander June 11, 2018

June 11, 2018

The IBRO-Simons computational neuroscience imbizo is a summer school in computational neuroscience and machine learning, hosted each January in Cape Town, South Africa. The event is generously sponsored by the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO) and the Simons Foundation (Simons). "Imbizo" is an isiXhosa word, meaning "A gathering to share knowledge". The aim of the isiCNI is exactly this: to create an environment in which young African and international students can explore computational neuroscience together, forming strong friendships in the process. Three weeks of intensive lectures, tutorials, projects and fun! When and where? January 6th - 27th 2019 Cape Town, South Africa TO APPLY: https://imbizo.africa<https://imbizo.africa/> [http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/img/Africagrey_trans_small.png]<https://imbizo.africa/> imbizo.africa - #isiCNI2019<https://imbizo.africa/> imbizo.africa The IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo: a computational neuroscience school in Cape Town, South Africa Faculty for 2019 include: Dora Angelaki (Bayor College, Houston) Demba Ba (Harvard Uni, Boston) Sophie Denève (ENS, Paris) Adrienne Fairhall (Univ of Washington, Seattle) Peter Latham (Univ College London) Timothy Lillicrap (Google Deepmind, London) Joseph Raimondo (Univ of Cape Town) Athanassia Papoutsi (IMBB-FORTH, Hellas) Srikanth Ramaswami (EPFL, Lausanne) Blake Richards (Univ Toronto) Andrew Trevelyan (Newcastle Univ., Newcastle) Misha Tsodyks (Weizmann Inst., Rehovot) Tim Vogels (Oxford) Byron Yu (Carnegie Mellon Univ, Pittsburgh) Who should apply? The Imbizo is designed to introduce students with backgrounds in analytic fields (computer science, statistics, physics, mathematics, engineering, etc.) to the field of computational neuroscience. It will also benefit advanced experimental biologists who would like to learn more computational skills. It also provides an opportunity for students already working in computational neuroscience to do 3 weeks of intensive, focused work in a different sub-topic of the field. Students should generally be at Masters/early PhD level, and have completed at least a 2nd-year university level course in computer science, statistics, physics or mathematics. Some coding experience will also be helpful. More advanced level students (post-Docs, early career PIs) may also be accepted if they can motivate how the courses at the Imbizo could help their career. Well motivated, exceptional undergraduates will also be considered. African students are especially encouraged to apply. What does it cost? The attendance fee for the isiCNI2019 is EUR 1,100.00. Thanks to our generous sponsors, significant bursaries are available to subsidise and waiver student fees, and provide some travel bursaries. Funding will be allocated according to need and merit. Please be sure to complete the relevant section of the application. For more information, please visit https://imbizo.africa<https://imbizo.africa/> [http://isicni.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/img/Africagrey_trans_small.png]<https://imbizo.africa/> imbizo.africa - #isiCNI2019<https://imbizo.africa/> imbizo.africa The IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo: a computational neuroscience school in Cape Town, South Africa Or contact isicn.imbizo[AT]gmail.com Thanks and regards IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Committee 2019

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postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience at the IIT - Italy
by Stefano Panzeri June 11, 2018

June 11, 2018

A postdoctoral position is currently available at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, within the new Center for Human Technologies in Genoa, Italy. The research will be jointly supervised by Stefano Panzeri ( https://www.iit.it/people/stefano-panzeri) and Cristina Becchio ( https://www.iit.it/it/people/cristina-becchio) The aim of this project is to investigate, using both neural network models and the mathematical analysis of behavioral, psychophysical and neuroimaging data from cognitive experiments, how motor variability affects action observation and prediction in both typically developing individuals and individuals with autism. The laboratories of the two supervisors offer a wide range of interdisciplinary expertise in computational and cognitive neuroscience, including advanced analysis, neural analyses techniques, neural network modeling, motion tracking, psychophysics and neuroimaging techniques. The laboratories offer a thriving, well-funded research environment with extensive international collaborations and ample opportunities for advanced training and personal scientific growth. We seek candidates holding a PhD in a numerate or neuroscientific scientific discipline, with a solid computational background and a keen interest in neuroscience and cognition. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and creative individual who wants to work in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research environment and is willing to interact with both experimental and theoretical cognitive neuroscientists. The formal deadline for applications is *July 9**th** 2018*. However, interested candidates are advised to contact informally Stefano Panzeri ( stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it) *as soon as possible*. The formal application should be sent by email to *jobpost.75446(a)iit.it* <jobpost.75446(a)iit.it>, *quoting “One post-doctoral position at the interface between Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience - CB 75446 CB 75447” in the subject*. The formal application should contain the CV, a brief statement of research interests, and names and email addresses of 2 referees. Please see the following link for further details: https://www.iit.it/careers/openings/opening/767-one-post-doctoral-position-… Yours truly Stefano Panzeri

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An Electrodynamic Theory of the Brain
by Patirniche, Dinu June 11, 2018

June 11, 2018

Dear Colleagues, What is a meter? If you say a unit length, you are correct. However, the meter is not just any unit of length, but one that is relevant for you as a human. Mature humans are around 1.70m high, and walk comfortably at 1m/s. But why do we use the meter at all, when it comes to expressing events and distances encountered in the brain? A commonly held biophysical dogma says that magnetic interactions occurring among neighboring compartments of biological tissues, such as for example the different neurons in a brain, can be ignored. The typical argument used to give credit to all biophysical theories rooted in electrostatic is related to the observation that the vast majority of all electrical events within living tissues propagate are incredibly low speeds. Thus, since action potentials (APs), that is, sharp fluctuations of the electric field, are seen to propagate at speeds between 1 and 100 m/s, any dynamic induction phenomena arising due to the presence of such an event is apriorily excluded. And indeed, with meter-long sensors there is hardly any significant electrodynamics signals to be recorded. However, acknowledging that the AP is playing a decisive role in the chemical transmission cycle, we could express the AP's speed in units that are relevant to this process. Since the dendritic spine is an integral part of the chemical transmission machinery, we could introduce a new unit of length and call it the "dendritic-spine-head" to mean 1 micro-meter, or 10^-6 m. Thus, referring to the spine as an observer of the AP, this event propagates at 1,000,000 "dendritic-spine-heads"/s. From the perspective of a spine, the production of such an event is anything but a stationary phenomenon, appearing necessary to consider what an electrodynamic theory might say about the interactions between an incoming electrical pulse and a fixed spine. In following this route, I came to the conclusion that all biological organisms can be easily decomposed into a finite set of disjoint, and electrically insulated volumes, that appear to function as a set of nested highly-exotic electromagnetic antennae. If this view can be maintained, understanding brains as room-temperature quantum computers, and life as a globally coherent state within some finite reach, is inevitable. I present this theory in a preprint entitled Dynamic Aspects of Finite Architectures (http://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.20815.79527) and invite you to read, comment and share this manuscript. Best regards, Dinu Patirniche.

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Ph.D. Computational Neuroscience @University of Padova
by suweis infn June 10, 2018

June 10, 2018

Dear all, call are open for Ph.D. position in Computational Neuroscience @ the Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova (http://pnc.unipd.it/phd-neuroscience/) In particular we propose three different projects: - The Critical Brain in Action (http://pnc.unipd.it/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/P19_Suweis.pdf) - Controllability and Observability of Rat Brain Activity (http://pnc.unipd.it/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/P17_Vassanelli.pdf) - Intrinsic brain activity and sensory coding in the rodent whisker somatosensory system (http://pnc.unipd.it/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/P18_Vassanelli.pdf) The deadline for the application is 26 June 2018. Interested candidate can contact me suweis(a)pd.infn.it Please forward this message to collaborators and students. Thanks Samir Suweis - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Samir Suweis, Ph.D. https://impactstory.org/u/SamirSuweis <https://impactstory.org/u/SamirSuweis> @SamirSuweis Research Scientist (RTDa) LIPh Lab, Physics Department, University of Padova Tel: +39 049 827 72 51 www.pd.infn.it/~maritan/people/Samir/samir.html

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Post-doctoral research scientist position for psychophysics in audio-visual virtual reality
by Seeber, Bernhard June 8, 2018

June 8, 2018

Dear List, we are inviting applications for a post-doctoral research scientist to join our team for research on psychoacoustics in complex audio-visual virtual environments. Main responsibilities are: - Development of novel techniques for and auditory experiments in interactive audio-visual virtual reality - Development of analysis methods for behavioral responses and statistical analysis of the results - Research on binaural hearing and auditory scene analysis with normal hearing listeners - Publication in English-language scientific journals and presentations at conferences - Supervision of student projects, assistance with teaching and with raising external funding. The position is full time and will start at the earliest convenient date. Qualifications: - Successfully completed doctoral degree (PhD) in one of the following areas: psychoacoustics, audio technology, virtual reality, acoustics, multimodal interaction, signal processing, or a related area - Knowledge and experience desirable in designing and analyzing psychophysical experiments, models of the auditory system, virtual acoustics, audio signal processing, machine learning, auditory scene analysis, binaural hearing, speech perception and speech tests - Very good programming skills in Matlab, Python, or C/C++ - Excellent written and oral communication skills as well as experience with scientific publications - Interest in basic research and the development of technical systems in virtual reality - Flexibility and good interpersonal skills - Interest in supervising students, helping with teaching, and raising external funds. We offer... you the opportunity to join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team, to work with up-to-date technical equipment including an anechoic chamber hosting an audio-visual virtual reality system, and to learn about the latest methods in hearing research. As part of the DFG collaborative research center "Hearing acoustics: Perceptual principles, Algorithms and Applications" you will work closely with our project partners at the University of Oldenburg. Our close interaction with the Bernstein Centre for Computational Neuroscience Munich (www.bccn-munich.de) the Munich School of BioEngineering (www.bioengineering.tum.de) the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (www.gsn.uni-muenchen.de) the Hearing Research Network Munich, our extensive cooperation with industry and with scientific partners, and the numerous courses offered at TUM create an attractive environment with excellent perspectives for personal development. Please see www.aip.ei.tum.de for further information. Employment is according to the state employees salary scheme (TV-L/E13) and is initially for 1 year with the option for extension to 4 years. Women are explicitly encouraged to apply. Severely handicapped persons will be favored if they are equally qualified. In principle, the position could also be filled part-time. Munich - the city famous for the Oktoberfest, high-end cars and its unique location to the Alps - is a bustling, international and interesting place to live which offers a wide range of opportunities to engage in cultural and leisurely activities - from opera to skiing. Interested? I look forward to answering your questions on the phone (+49 89 289 28282) or by email. Please send your expressive application preferably by email no later than 30 June 2018 to: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernhard Seeber Professorship for Audio Information Processing Technical University of Munich Arcisstrasse 21 80333 Munich Germany Email: aip(a)ei.tum.de. The job advertisement can also be found at: https://portal.mytum.de/jobs/wissenschaftler/NewsArticle_20180608_072800 Kind regards, Bernhard

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Postdoc position in Geometric Methods for Deep and Reinforcement Learning at RIST
by Luigi Malagò June 7, 2018

June 7, 2018

=========================================================== *Subject*: Postdoc position in Machine Learning (1 year, renewable up to 2.5 years) *Institution*: RIST - Romanian Institute of Science and Technology, Cluj-Napoca *Keywords*: Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Stochastic Optimization, Optimization over Manifolds, Information Geometry, Riemannian Geometry *Application deadline*: 30 June 2018 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) *Salary*: around 2190 euro net *Official announcement*: http://rist.ro/en/details/news/postdoc-positio ns-in-deep-learning-and-machine-learning.html =========================================================== Dear colleagues, the Romanian Institute of Science and Technology (RIST) has an opening for a postdoc position, in the context of the DeepRiemann project “Riemannian Optimization Methods for Deep Learning”, funded by European structural funds through the Competitiveness Operational Program (POC 2014-2020). The appointments will be for 1 year, with possible extensions up to 2.5 years. The DeepRiemann project aims at the design and analysis of novel training algorithms for Neural Networks in Deep Learning, by applying notions of Riemannian optimization and differential geometry. The task of the training a Neural Network is studied by employing tools from Optimization over Manifolds and Information Geometry, by casting the learning process to an optimization problem defined over a statistical manifold, i.e., a set of probability distributions. The project is highly interdisciplinary, with competences spanning from Machine Learning to Optimization, Deep Learning, Statistics, and Differential Geometry. The objectives of the project are multiple and include both theoretical and applied research, together with industrial activities oriented to transfer knowledge, from the institute to a startup or spin-off of the research group. The positions will be part of the new Machine Learning and Optimization group http://luigimalago.it/group.html, which performs research at the intersection of Machine Learning, Stochastic Optimization, Deep Learning, and Optimization over Manifolds, from the unifying perspective of Information Geometry. The group is one of two newly-formed groups in Machine Learning at RIST, where about 20 new postdoctoral research associates and research software developers will be hired by 2018. The official job announcement can be seen here: http://rist.ro/en/details/news/postdoc-positions-in-deep-lea rning-and-machine-learning.html Informal inquiries can be sent to Dr. Luigi Malagò <malago(a)rist.ro>, principal investigator of the DeepRiemann project. Application deadline: 30 June 2018 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) best regards, Luigi Malagò

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Postdoc position in computational neuroscience- University of Calgary
by Roberto C Sotero June 7, 2018

June 7, 2018

The Computational Neurophysics Lab at the University of Calgary ( www.soterolab.com) headed by Dr. Roberto C. Sotero, is looking for a talented postdoctoral fellow, interested in working in the field of computational neuroscience, specifically modeling and identifying brain networks from EEG and fMRI data, and developing model-based control methods to steer these networks from their pathological dynamics towards healthy dynamics. As an example, see our recent paper: http://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.10061… The perfect candidate has a strong mathematical, physical, or engineering background (or equivalent), programming skills, and a keen interest in biological and neural systems. A PhD in the field of computational neuroscience is a plus. Applications including a CV, the statement of research interests, and the names and contact information of two references should be sent to roberto.soterodiaz(a)ucalgary.ca. Applications will be assessed as they arrive, and the position will remain open until filled. Salary will be based on University of Calgary post-doctoral rates and commensurate with experience. Best regards, Roberto C. Sotero, PhD Assistant Professor Department of Radiology Hotchkiss Brain Institute University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada www.soterolab.com roberto.soterodiaz(a)ucalgary.ca

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PhD position, University of Innsbruck (Austria)
by Antonio Rodriguez-Sanchez June 7, 2018

June 7, 2018

Ph.D. Student Position in Robot Learning or Computer Vision at U. Innsbruck The research group in Intelligent and Interactive Systems <https://iis.uibk.ac.at/>, led by Profs. Justus Piater and Antonio Rodríguez-Sánchez, has an opening for a Ph.D. student, on a university assistant position that includes minor teaching requirements. The research will be loosely aligned with ongoing research projects <https://iis.uibk.ac.at/research/projects> in the lab: deep learning in computer vision or robotics computational models of biological vision biologically-inspired computer vision robot vision and closed-loop sensorimotor interaction open-ended and intrinsically-motivated robot learning concept discovery by learning robots goal-oriented exploratory learning prediction of action effects robot skill optimization human-robot interaction and collaboration How to Apply Interested applicants should send a letter of motivation, a curriculum vitae including URLs of English-language theses and dissertations, scanned transcripts and diplomas, and contact information of at least two references in PDF to Justus.Piater(a)uibk.ac.at <mailto:Justus.Piater@uibk.ac.at>. Applications will be considered as they are received, until all positions are filled. Starting date is October 2018 or earlier. More details on https://iis.uibk.ac.at/jobs <https://iis.uibk.ac.at/jobs> Priv. Doz. Antonio Rodríguez-Sánchez, PhD Intelligent and Interactive Systems Dept. of Computer Science - Institut für Informatik University of Innsbruck - Universität Innsbruck Austria – Österreich https://iis.uibk.ac.at/public/antonio/ <https://iis.uibk.ac.at/public/antonio/>

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Combined Postdoc and science manager to be integrated into the Human Brain Project – Data-driven modeling of plasticity combined with project coordination
by Jeanette Hällgren Kotaleski June 5, 2018

June 5, 2018

Dear Colleagues, dear all, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, is currently recruiting a joint postdoc / science manager to be working within the Human Brain Project. Specifically for the above position data-driven modeling of receptor induced cascades such as GPCR dependent cascades involved in neuromodulation and synaptic plasticity will be done. The first year also research coordination and management is an important challenge of the job. Position can be prolonged (up to maximally 2 or 4 years, the latter if one has received a PhD within the last 3 years). More info and how to apply at: https://www.kth.se/en/om/work-at-kth/lediga-jobb/what:job/jobID:208384/wher… All the best, Jeanette Hellgren Kotaleski Prof, Dept Computational Science and Technolgy, School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm

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Master programme in Neuroinformatics and Computational Neuroscience
by Marcus Kaiser June 5, 2018

June 5, 2018

Dear all, Please forward the following to interested final year UG students. our one-year master degree program in Neuroinformatics and Computational Neuroscience at Newcastle University is now accepting student applications. The course focuses on handling brain connectivity datasets, analyzing electrophysiological recordings, and simulating neural activity and development. Applications range from theoretical neuroscience and machine learning to experimental and clinical research. There are more than a dozen faculty members in the areas of Neuroinformatics, Health Informatics, and Neurotechnology within Newcastle University (see overview at http://neuroinformatics.ncl.ac.uk/ ). Close interactions with experimental and clinical researchers are a key component of the course and the dissertation research project. Ongoing research areas in Newcastle include neuroimaging, psychophysics, systems neuroscience (visual, auditory, and motor system), ageing, neurorehabilitation, brain rhythms, brain-machine interfaces, neurochips, and connectomics (http://www.ncl.ac.uk/ion ). Newcastle University hosts around 100 principal investigators in the neurosciences. You can find out more about the program and how to apply at http://www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/degrees/computational-neuroscienc… COURSE OUTLINE The MSc in Neuroinformatics is a full-time, one-year advanced masters course designed for students who have a good degree in the biological sciences or the physical sciences (computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering). It provides the specialist skills in core Neuroinformatics courses (such as computing and biology) with a significant focus on the development of research skills. Prior experience with computers or computer programming is not required. The program is ideal for students aiming for careers in industry or academia. The course is based in the School of Computing but there are strong links with biomedicine, engineering, and the Institute of Neuroscience. WHY STUDY AT NEWCASTLE? The MSc in Neuroinformatics is a truly interdisciplinary degree and provides the dual skills necessary to establish a rewarding career in this research area. The Newcastle program has a research focus on data management, network analysis (e.g. Kaiser, Neuroimage, 2011), and simulation. Newcastle is among the pioneers of the field in the UK and hosted the £4m EPSRC-funded CARMEN project for managing and processing electrophysiology data. We are currently involved in the £10m EPSRC/Wellcome Trust-funded CANDO project for developing an implantable optogenetic device for epilepsy patients (http://www.cando.ac.uk/ ). Newcastle has strong links with the International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF). Currently, members of the faculty lead Neuroinformatics UK (http://www.neuroinformatics.org.uk/ ) and co-chair the Neuroinformatics Special Interest Group of the British Neuroscience Association (BNA). COURSE CONTENT Semester 1 contains modules to build the basic grounding in, and understanding of, Neuroinformatics theory and applications, mathematics and statistics, and programming. Semester 2 introduces modules that focus heavily on introducing subject-specific research skills and includes options for choosing modules. A major part of the programme is a research project that will occupy approximately six months. This project may be associated with staff in any of the Schools mentioned above, thus providing a wide range of exciting areas in which the newly learnt Neuroinformatics skills can be deployed. HOW TO APPLY Applications for this program are now being accepted. Please see http://www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/degrees/computational-neuroscienc… for more information. Best, Marcus -- Marcus Kaiser, Ph.D. FRSB @ConnectomeLab<https://twitter.com/ConnectomeLab> Professor of Neuroinformatics Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex Biosystems (ICOS) Research Group School of Computing Urban Sciences Building Newcastle University 1 Science Square Science Central Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5TG UK Lab website: http://www.dynamic-connectome.org<http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/>/ Neuroinformatics@Newcastle: http://neuroinformatics.ncl.ac.uk/ Neuroinformatics UK: http://www.neuroinformatics.org.uk/ Neuroinformatics one-year master programme: http://research.ncl.ac.uk/neuroinformatics/study

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Postdoc in Brain Network Analysis and Modeling at Vanderbilt University
by Mikail Rubinov June 4, 2018

June 4, 2018

Dear Colleagues, The Rubinov lab at Vanderbilt University Biomedical Engineering (http://www.rubinovlab.net) analyzes and models brain networks across modalities, species and scales. Our research interests broadly include: 1) Integrative statistical models of big neuroscience networks. 2) Evolutionary principles of brain network organization. 3) Information transfer in neural systems. 4) Neuropsychiatric connectivity phenotypes. We are recruiting a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our lab. The position will be based at the Department of Biomedical Engineering and will be supervised by Dr. Mika Rubinov. There will be opportunities to develop exciting research ideas at the intersection of systems neuroscience, evolutionary neuroscience, network science and data science, and to collaborate with leading investigators at Vanderbilt University and Janelia Research Campus (Howard Hughes Medical Institute). The successful applicant should be passionate about neuroscience and understanding the brain, have good programming skills, and a strong background in a quantitative discipline, including but not limited to network science, computational neuroscience, computational biology, mathematics, physics, computer science, or electrical engineering. Preference will be given to applicants with a good publication record and with experience in analysis of complex datasets. The applicant must have completed their PhD by the start of this position. The position will be initially for one year, with possibilities for yearly extensions subject to satisfactory annual reviews. The salary will be commensurate with the applicant’s experience and qualifications. Vanderbilt is an elite research university (https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/vanderbilt-3535) located in Nashville, one of the hottest cities in the US today (http://www.visitmusiccity.com/media/rankings) Applicants are welcome to email Mika Rubinov for more details and information. Please submit the following application materials directly to mika.rubinov(a)vanderbilt.edu 1) A cover statement of the applicant’s fit for this position. 2) Curriculum Vitae. 3) A list of 2-3 key publications. 4) Contact details for 2-3 referees. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. https://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science/jobs/645613-postdoctoral-research… Best regards, Mika

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Postdoctoral Position @UPenn in Vision Science & Computational Neuroscience
by Burge, Johannes June 4, 2018

June 4, 2018

I am looking for a postdoctoral researcher to fill an NIH-funded position on the research team in the Natural Vision Lab at the University of Pennsylvania (http://burgelab.psych.upenn.edu<http://burgelab.psych.upenn.edu/>). My lab works to understand how vision works with natural stimuli. We use databases of natural images, statistical learning tools, ideal observer analysis, and behavioral experiments to gain a precise understanding of the processes that support perception. We have ongoing projects across a range of topics in vision and computational neuroscience, but we tend to focus on tasks and coding problems that are directly or indirectly related to motion and depth perception. My lab is also affiliated with the Computational Neuroscience Initiative at Penn, a community of top researchers working on an array of problems in sensation, perception, and cognition. Strong computational and programming skills are necessary, as well as experience designing and running psychophysical experiments. Familiarity with Matlab and Psychtoolbox is required. A solid background in computer graphics and knowledge of C/C++ and object oriented programming is desirable. The lab has a high refresh-rate VPixx ProPixx projector, a haploscope driven by two high-resolution VPixx ViewPixx monitors, and a large suite of custom code for statistical learning and for the analysis of psychometric data. Applicants must have finished their Ph.D. in neuroscience, vision science, engineering, computer science, or related fields and have a demonstrated record of research productivity. The position is available before the end of Summer 2018. The precise start date is flexible. Applicants should send a brief statement of interest, CV, and the names of three references to Johannes Burge (jburge(a)sas.upenn.edu<mailto:jburge@sas.upenn.edu>). Letters will be requested if your candidacy is being seriously considered. Applications will be assessed as they arrive and the position will remain open until filled. Salary will be based on NIH post-doctoral rates and commensurate with experience. ======================== Johannes Burge, PhD Assistant Professor Department of Psychology Neuroscience Graduate Group University of Pennsylvania http://burgelab.psych.upenn.edu jburge(a)sas.upenn.edu (215) 573 6528

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IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo 2019: call for Teaching Assistants
by ucgtada＠ucl.ac.uk June 4, 2018

June 4, 2018

The IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo (isiCNI) is a computational neurosciencesummer school held in Cape Town, South Africa. We are looking for several Post-Doc (oradvanced PhD) researchers to join our team as Teaching Assistants (TAs) for the isiCNI2019 in January 2019. *About the Imbizo:* The school hosts 30 students for an amazing 3 weeks of lectures, tutorials, projects and parties! All this takes place right on Muizenberg beach, between the mountain and the ocean. It's a spectacular location. The dates for the isiCNI2019 are*January 6th - 27th 2019.* The Imbizo is a special experience, with students being totally immersed in academic, social, touristic and cultural activities for the full 3 weeks. This has resulted in student and TA groups from previous schools becoming very close, personally and scientifically. This is fantastic, as a major goal of the isiCNI project is to help young African researchers grow their academic peer and friend group. *About being a TA:* EachTAruns one afternoon tutorial in the first week of the school, which they design themselves. Each TA will teach a different topic, which the TA's choose among themselves, to try and provide students with a broad exposure to problems and methods in comp neuro. EachTAis also assigned 5 students to supervise for project work during the second 2 weeks of the school. TAs are integral in helping run the school. In addition to academic support, they foster good social interaction and academic discussions between students and help 'shy' students meet faculty. They also act as 'social' care-takers, helping to notice and support students who may be feeling ill, not fitting in socially, or generally having difficulties. To fulfil these roles, TAs need to be at all school meals and activities. We will also need a little help processing studentapplications*during August*. *What we provide:* All this is obviously at no cost to TAs. We cover a direct as possible economy class ticket to Cape Town, as well as all board and lodging during the school. In addition, TAs will receive a cash budget for 'hosting purposes' during the school (e.g. buying some beers/ice-creams for students, train tickets, etc.) *I'm interested, how do I apply:* If you think you would like to join us for this amazing experience, please send us a brief CV (2 or 3 pages is fine) toisicn.imbizo(a)gmail.com <mailto:isicn.imbizo@gmail.com>. Please include (as a cover letter or in your email) a short motivational statement for why you would be a good fit. The_*DEADLINE is JUNE 18th 2018*_ We hope to hear from you soon! Let us know if you have any questions. Thanks and regards Dr Peter E. Latham, Dr Tim Vogels, Dr Joseph Raimondo and Alex Antrobus IBRO-Simons Computational Neuroscience Imbizo Committee 2019 #isicni2019 Twitter: @isicni

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FENS Satellite Symposium: From Scanner to Bedside
by Marcus Kaiser June 2, 2018

June 2, 2018

Dear colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to our FENS Satellite Symposium "From Scanner to Bedside - What do connectome and gene expression say about brain diseases?" chaired by Prof. Marcus Kaiser (Newcastle University) and Dr Markus Butz-Ostendorf (Biomax): https://www.biomax.com/symposiums/from-scanner-to-bedside/ In this FENS satellite symposium on Friday 6 July, research with a high potential for applications in neurology and psychiatry is presented. We want to bring together scientists with clinicians from all disciplines dealing with brain diseases and to provide a forum for discussion and exchange what steps are needed to bring novel techniques into clinical applications. Keynote Lectures are given by PROF. DR. ANDREAS MEYER-LINDENBERG (Zentralinstitut für seelische Gesundheit, Mannheim, Germany) PROF. DR. ED BULLMORE (Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK) PROF. DR. DR. ELISABETH BINDER (Max-Planck Institute for Psychiatry, Munich, Germany) For the full program see https://www.biomax.com/symposiums/from-scanner-to-bedside/ Participation is free but please register at https://ssl.biomax.de/Symposium/register.html Looking forward to welcoming you in Berlin! Best regards from the organizers, Marcus Kaiser & Markus Butz-Ostendorf -- Marcus Kaiser, Ph.D. FRSB @ConnectomeLab<https://twitter.com/ConnectomeLab> Professor of Neuroinformatics Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex Biosystems (ICOS) Research Group School of Computing Urban Sciences Building Newcastle University 1 Science Square Science Central Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5TG UK Lab website: http://www.dynamic-connectome.org<http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/>/ Neuroinformatics@Newcastle: http://neuroinformatics.ncl.ac.uk/ Neuroinformatics UK: http://www.neuroinformatics.org.uk/ Neuroinformatics one-year master programme: http://research.ncl.ac.uk/neuroinformatics/study

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Job Vacancy Announcement - Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) Computational Neuroscience and Electrophysiology Program
by Michele Ferrante June 1, 2018

June 1, 2018

*Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer)Computational Neuroscience and Electrophysiology ProgramNational Institute of Mental HealthDepartment of Health and Human Services* The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Division of Neuroscience and Basic Behavioral Research announces openings for Health Scientist Administrators (Program Officer) to guide and manage a grants program supporting basic research in computational neuroscience and electrophysiology. The Program Officer will lead an extramurally-funded and innovative program employing computational and mathematical approaches to modeling dynamical neuronal processes underlying brain signaling from molecules and cells, as well as complex behaviors (e.g., affect, cognition, executive function, and social behavior). Topic areas within this program include empirical and computational studies (theory- and data-driven models), that combine mathematical and computational tools with neurophysiological, neuroanatomical, or neurochemical techniques to identify the biological mechanisms underlying single cell and circuit dynamics. The program supports studies to develop novel analytical and statistical approaches to high dimensional data sets to identify patterns and relationships among mental health relevant variables. Hypothesis-driven studies seeking to integrate diverse levels of analysis, casual manipulations, and theoretical modeling of neural dynamics are of special interest as are studies developing novel computational algorithms and methods for acquisition, analysis and interpretation of neural data in model systems. This position provides an opportunity to impact priorities, develop new research initiatives and to contribute to the advancement of a national program of computational neuroscience research spanning molecular and cellular electrophysiological analyses. Individuals are encouraged to apply who have research experience using a broad range of computational methods and electrophysiology. General responsibilities will include administering and managing an extramural portfolio of research grants, interacting with researchers and program officers for related programs at NIMH, NIH, and other funding agencies, and developing new research initiatives. This position requires working both independently and collaboratively. Strong organizational, oral, written and communication skills are also required. Salary will be commensurate with the experience of the candidate. A full package of federal Civil Service benefits is available, including: retirement, health and life insurance, long term care insurance, leave, and a Thrift Savings Plan (401K equivalent). The successful candidate is subject to a background investigation and public financial disclosure requirements. For medical and scientific specialties, qualification requirements, evaluation criteria, and application instructions, please view the vacancy announcement at https://jobs.nih.gov/globalrecruitment/. Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, including a curriculum vitae to *NIMHsearch(a)mail.nih.gov* <NIMHsearch(a)mail.nih.gov>*.* The NIH encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. HHS and NIH are Equal Opportunity Employers. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/careers/job-vacancy-announcement-health-scie… https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/careers/dnbbs_job_announcement_hsa_computati… Please feel free to reach out (ferrantem(a)nih.gov) for guidance. Regards, Michele …………………………. Michele Ferrante, Ph.D. (ferrantem(a)nih.gov) Program Director: Computational Neuroscience & Computational Psychiatry National Institute of Mental Health 301-435-6782 <(301)%20435-6782>

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CFP: Workshop on Crossmodal Learning for Intelligent Robotics in conjunction with IEEE/RSJ IROS 2018
by Pablo Barros June 1, 2018

June 1, 2018

**Apologies for cross-posting** 1st CALL FOR PAPERS for the international workshop: * Crossmodal Learning for Intelligent Robotics * in conjunction with IEEE/RSJ IROS 2018 * Madrid, Spain - Friday 5 October 2018 * * Website: http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/WorkshopCLIR18/index.php * I. Aim and Scope The ability to efficiently process crossmodal information is a key feature of the human brain that provides a robust perceptual experience and behavioural responses. Consequently, the processing and integration of multisensory information streams such as vision, audio, haptics and proprioception play a crucial role in the development of autonomous agents and cognitive robots, yielding an efficient interaction with the environment also under conditions of sensory uncertainty. Multisensory representations have been shown to improve performance in the research areas of human-robot interaction and sensory-driven motor behaviour. The perception, integration, and segregation of multisensory cues improve the capability to physically interact with objects and persons with higher levels of autonomy. However, the multisensory input must be represented and integrated in an appropriate way so that they result in a reliable perceptual experience aimed to trigger adequate behavioural responses. The interplay of multisensory representations can be used to solve stimulus-driven conflicts for executive control. Embodied agents can develop complex sensorimotor behaviour through the interaction with a crossmodal environment, leading to the development and evaluation of scenarios that better reflect the challenges faced by operating robots in the real world. This half-day workshop focuses on presenting and discussing new findings, theories, systems, and trends in crossmodal learning applied to neurocognitive robotics. The workshop will feature a list of invited speakers with outstanding expertise in crossmodal learning. II. Target Audience This workshop is open to doctoral students and senior researchers working in computer and cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience and related areas with the focus on crossmodal learning. III. Confirmed Speakers 1. * Yulia Sandamirskaya * Institute of Neuroinformatics (INI), University and ETH Zurich 2. * Angelo Cangelosi * Plymouth University and University of Manchester, UK 3. * Stefan Wermter * Hamburg Universit, Germany IV. Submission 1. Topics of interest: - New methods and applications for crossmodal processing (e.g., integrating vision, audio, haptics, proprioception) - Machine learning and neural networks for multisensory robot perception - Computational models of crossmodal attention and perception - Bio-inspired approaches for crossmodal learning - Crossmodal conflict resolution and executive control - Sensorimotor learning for autonomous agents and robots - Crossmodal learning for embodied and cognitive robots 2. For paper submission, use the following IEEE template: <http://ras.papercept.net/conferences/support/support.php>* 3. Submitted papers should be limited to *2 pages (extended abstract)* or *4 pages (short paper)*. 4. Send your pdf file to barros(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de AND jirak(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de Selected contributions will be presented during the workshop as spotlight talks and in a poster session. Contributors to the workshop will be invited to submit extended versions of the manuscripts to a special issue (to be arranged). Submissions will be peer reviewed consistent with the journal practices. V. Important Dates * Paper submission deadline: August 15, 2018 * Notification of acceptance: September 5, 2018 * Camera-ready version: September 15, 2018 * Workshop: Friday 5 October 2018 VI. Organizers * German I. Parisi * Hamburg University, Germany * Pablo Barros * Hamburg University, Germany * Doreen Jirak * Hamburg University, Germany * Jun Tani * Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan * Yoonsuck Choe * Samsung Research & Texas A&M University, TX, USA -- Dr.rer.nat. Pablo Barros Postdoctoral Research Associate - Crossmodal Learning Project (CML) Knowledge Technology Department of Informatics University of Hamburg Vogt-Koelln-Str. 30 22527 Hamburg, Germany Phone: +49 40 42883 2535 Fax: +49 40 42883 2515 barros at informatik.uni-hamburg.de https://www.inf.uni-hamburg.de/en/inst/ab/wtm/people/barros.html https://www.inf.uni-hamburg.de/en/inst/ab/wtm/

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Deadline extended to June 15th for abstracts for the 2nd International Youth Conference of Bionic Science and Engineering (IYCBE2018), 7th-9th November 2018, Odense, Denmark
by Jan-Matthias Braun May 31, 2018

May 31, 2018

The deadline for abstract submission has been extended to June 15th, 23:59:59 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The 2nd International Youth Conference of Bionic Engineering (IYCBE2018) will be held on 7th-9th November 2018 in Odense, Denmark. WEBPAGE: http://iycbe2018.sdu.dk/ ****Abstract Submission Instructions and Publication Details**** The abstract should fit into 500 words, the title into 500 characters. Up to one figure or table can also be added. *Direct links to updated templates and all details are available at the conference webpage.* Then, submit your abstract on our submission page until 15th June 2018. https://easychair.org/my/conference.cgi?welcome=1;a=13832989;conf=iycbe2018 All accepted abstracts with oral or poster presentation will be published in Frontiers in Neurorobotics as an e-book. Selected authors may additionally be invited to submit extended versions for a conference Special Issue of Frontiers in Neurorobotics and Journal of Bionic Engineering. ****Plenary Talks**** John Hallam, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark Title: From Lizards to LEGO, and back again? Zhendong Dai, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, China Title: Biomimetic on gecko locomotion: revealing the biology mechanism and developing robot for engineering. Han Zhiwu, Jilin University, China Title: Title: Fabrication and Performance of Bionic Strain Component ****Keynote speakers**** Thierry Darmanin, University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, France Title: Tunable Conducting Polymer Nanotubes with Special Wetting Properties Zhiguang Guo, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China Title: Bioinspired Separation Materials for Liquid Lubricants Alexander Spröwitz, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Germany Title: Implementing and Testing Bioinspired Mechanisms on Robots to Understand Legged Locomotion Massimo Sartori, University of Twente, Netherlands Title: Neuro-Mechanical Modelling for Man-Machine Interaction Lars Heepe, Kiel University, Germany Title: Biological and Biomimetic Surfaces: Adhesion, Friction, and Applications Limei Tian, Jilin University, China Title: Non-bactericidal coating of bionic surfaces used for anti-biofouling ****Important Dates**** *Extended* Abstract Submission Deadline: 15th June 2018, 23:59:59 UTC – SUBMISSION IS OPEN Notification of Acceptance: 20th August 2018 Camera Ready Submission: 20th September 2018 Early Registration: 20th September 2018 Conference: 7th-9th November 2018 ****Scope of the Conference**** To meet the demand of the bionic scientists for academic communication, the 2nd International Youth Conference of Bionic Engineering (ICBSE2018) will be held on 7th-9th November 2018 in Odense, Denmark. This conference will be supported by the Youth Committee of International Society of Bionic Engineering (ISBE) and Frontiers in Neurorobotics and organized by University of Southern Denmark and Nanjing University of Aeronautics & Astronautics. The objective of this interdisciplinary conference is to provide an international forum for youth or outstanding scientists and engineers around the world who are interested in the field of bionic science and engineering. All aspects of bionic science and engineering and application areas are welcome, including, but not limited to, the following topics: Bio-inspired Robotics Bio-inspired Sensors and Actuators Bio-inspired Energy Storage Bio-inspired Flexible Electronics Bio-Inspired Solar Cells Biomimetic Engineering Embodied Artificial Intelligence and Neurorobotics Functional Morphology Musculoskeletal Systems, Biomechanics Biological Interface and Functionalization Biomimetic Materials, Biomimetic Structures Mechanics, Biomimetic Surfaces Biomimetic Design Methodologies Bionic Fluid, Biological Systems and Brain-Inspired Computing and Neuromorphic Systems. ****Awards**** The best abstract, as well as the best poster, will be awarded at the conference. ****Conference Format**** The conference will be single track with additional poster sessions. ORGANIZING COMMITTEE The Honorary Chair: Julian Vincent General Chair: Poramate Manoonpong Vice-General Chairs: Limei Tian, Zhiguang Guo Program Chair: Jørgen C. Larsen Local Arrangement Chair: Danish Shaikh Publication Chairs: Jan-Matthias Braun, Xiaofeng Xiong Registration Chair: Tórur Andreassen Media Operation Chair: Mathias Thor Technical Support: Peter Billeschou, Leon Bonde Larsen, David Docherty

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CfP: Computationally Intelligent Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data at BI 2018, Arlington, Texas, USA.
by Mufti Mahmud May 31, 2018

May 31, 2018

*[Apologies for cross posting.]* *Call for Paper for Special Session on * *Computationally Intelligent Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data* *11th Brain Informatics Conference (BI 2018), Arlington, Texas, USA, December 7-9, 2018* *Web: http://uta.engineering/conferences/bi-2018/ <http://uta.engineering/conferences/bi-2018/>* Organizers: *Mufti Mahmud1, M Shamim Kaiser2, Ning Zhong3, Nitish V Thakor4* *1* *Computing and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, NG11 8NS – Nottingham, UK* 2*Institute of Information Technology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, 1342 – Dhaka, Bangladesh* 3*Dept. of Life Science and Informatics, Maebashi Institute of Technology, 371-0816 - Maebashi-City, Japan* *4**Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, 117456 – Singapore; & * *Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21205 – MD, USA* *Introduction:* The brain receives and processes information simultaneously coming from diverse sources. The neurons, being the basic information processing units, interconnect to each other to form hierarchical and/or parallel pathways. Technologies related to neural systems engineering have been employed to study these pathways along with processing and modelling of neuronal data for disease diagnosis and brain decoding purposes. Combining both experimental and computational approaches in recent years, thanks to the advancements in neurotechniques, scientists can access large amount of neuronal data and apply computationally intelligent and nature-inspired machine learning techniques including deep learning and reinforcement learning on those data to suggest next generation experimental design aiming to decipher brain’s information processing capabilities and diagnose its diseases. *Scope:* Developing data-intensive and intelligent tools, as well as sophisticated neurotechniques, to process and analyse the neuronal big data is one of the biggest challenges posed to today’s multidisciplinary brain science community. To share recent progress in decoding neuronal information processing, both in healthy and diseased brain, this special session aims to provide a forum for scientists from diverse disciplines including – computer, electrical, biomedical, and neuro engineering – who are looking for more relevant information in interpreting brain functions and diagnosing diseases using expert and computationally intelligent systems. This special session expects to attract papers on recent research progress in the area of intelligent computational tools and techniques in acquiring and processing neuronal big data. The focus areas include, but not limited to, the following: Ø Neural systems engineering and technology to study neural pathways; Ø Processing and modelling of neuronal data for disease diagnosis and brain decoding; Ø Bio-inspired methods for network analysis and pattern recognition in neural data; Ø Novel machine learning techniques for neuronal big data analysis; Ø Application of deep and reinforcement learning to neuronal big data analysis; Ø Computationally intelligent techniques for neuroscience applications; Ø Neuroinformatics (including cloud computing and real-time systems); Ø Cognitive science applications (learning, workload, decision making, etc.) and data analytics; Ø Computational and imaging methods for human brain connectome; and Ø Information analysis in human brain machine interface (invasive, noninvasive). *Submission of papers:* Submit Springer Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) complaint – 10 page – pdf paper to the Special Session following the steps below: Ø Prepare the paper as per the Springer LNCS template from: http://www.springer.com/us/computer-science/lncs/conference-proceedings-gui… Ø Visit https://wi-lab.com/cyberchair/2018/bi18/scripts/ws_submit.php?subarea=S Ø Select the link: Special session on Computationally Intelligent Methods in Processing and Analysis of Neuronal Big Data Ø Select the link Submit a New Paper (TYPE I Submission) Ø Provide paper details (i.e., Author(s), Paper Title, Abstract, Keywords, PDF file to upload). *Important dates:* Ø Paper submission deadline: *30 July 2018* Ø Decision notification: *30 August 2018* Ø Special Session date: *7 December 2018* Ø Conference dates: *8-9 December 2018*. -- *Mufti Mahmud, PhD* | (Senior) Lecturer of Computing & Technology <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/sat/about/academic_teams/comp_tech.html> | School of Science & Technology <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/sat/> Office: ERD200 | Nottingham Trent University <https://www.ntu.ac.uk/> | Clifton Campus | NG11 8NS – Nottingham, UK Phone: +44 (0)115 84 83202 | Email: mufti.mahmud(a)ntu.ac.uk Meeting requests: https://doodle.com/mufti http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2037-8348 https://sites.google.com/site/muftimahmud/ https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=L8em2YoAAAAJ&hl=en Senior Member, IEEE <https://www.ieee.org/> & ACM <https://www.acm.org/> Associate Editor, IEEE Access <http://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/> Editorial Board Member, Cognitive Computation <https://www.springer.com/biomed/neuroscience/journal/12559> & Big Data Analytics <https://bdataanalytics.biomedcentral.com/>

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New book: Neural Information Theory
by James V Stone May 31, 2018

May 31, 2018

I'd like to announce the publication of this book: Principles of Neural Information Theory: Computational Neuroscience and Metabolic Efficiency by James V Stone. Reviews, synopsis, and table of contents can be found here: http://sebtelpress.com regards, James V Stone, University of Sheffield, UK.

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[High Performance Computing] Become a specialist!
by Master in HPC May 31, 2018

May 31, 2018

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PhD studentship in Biocomputation Research Group, Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research, University of Hertfordshire
by Shabnam Kadir May 30, 2018

May 30, 2018

Applications are invited for a *PhD studentship* on *Computational frameworks for high-dimensional neural data* with *Dr. Shabnam Kadir *in the *Biocomputation Research Group* in the Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research, University of Hertfordshire, U.K. *Project Description* New developments in experimental technology have led to petabytes of raw data being produced by experimental neuroscientists, which are increasingly publicly available, e.g. Allen Institute data http://www.brain-map.org/. In particular, we are in the realm where population recordings of tens of thousands of neurons are feasible thanks to, e.g. a new generation of large dense probes for electrophysiological recordings, imaging using 2-photon microscopy coupled with calcium fluorescent sensors. Large scale neuronal recordings require novel approaches for both processing and quantitative analysis. As well as using techniques from high-dimensional statistics, machine learning, information theory, we aim to explore new approaches from mathematical fields outside statistics, such as algebraic topology. The study of networks is a particularly important topic in neuroscience: neurons communicate with each other electrically via synapses, forming intricate networks. These networks can be studied using techniques from computational topology (e.g. persistent homology, clique topology). These could be used to extract information about subnetworks and assemblies, both from large scale recordings, and via connectomics derived from simulations (Blue Brain Project). We aim in this project to go beyond spike sorting and develop new tools and computational frameworks which would help interpret high dimensional data and interrogate how information is being processed by the brain, e.g. How are sensory stimuli (location in environment, visual and auditory stimuli) encoded? How can we characterise the neural activity associated with memory, attention, decision making and motor control? We shall be collaborating with labs at Imperial, Pennsylvania State University and UCL. More information can be found here: http://www.herts.ac.uk/_ _data/assets/pdf_file/0003/187455/Dec2017-computational-fram eworks-for-high-dimensional-neural-data.pdf *Requirements * We are looking for candidates with the following profile: - Strong first degree in a quantitative field such as mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, computational neuroscience. - Strong programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C++). - Interest in neuroscience and biology would be helpful. A studentship from the PhD Programme in Computer Science provides approximately £14,750 per annum bursary plus the payment of student fees. Applicants from outside the UK or EU are eligible. Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognised as excellent in the latest Research Excellence Framework Assessment (2014), with 50% of the research submitted rated as internationally excellent or world-leading. The Centre for Computer Science and Informatics Research provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialised and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training and researcher development opportunities. The University is situated in Hatfield, in the green belt just north of London. Please contact *Dr Shabnam Kadir* (s.kadir2(a)herts.ac.uk) for informal enquiries. Application forms are available under http://www.herts.ac.uk/a pply/schools-of-study/computer-science/our-research/the-phd- programme-in-computer-science and should be returned to Mrs Lorraine Nicholls and Mrs Emma Thorogood, Research Student Administrators, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, Tel: 01707 286083, doctoralcollegeadmissions(a)herts.ac.uk. The short-listing process will begin on 25th June 2018. ------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------------- Dr Shabnam Kadir Senior Lecturer School of Computer Science, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB, United Kingdom. Tel. +44 1707 284641 ------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------------------

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Faculty position in systems neuroscience, U of Montreal
by Paul Cisek May 30, 2018

May 30, 2018

Professor in Systems/Computational Neuroscience Faculty of medicine / Department of neurosciences Mandate description The Département de neurosciences at the Université de Montréal invites applications for a faculty position at the assistant or associate level, in Systems/Computational Neuroscience. We are seeking candidates who use experimental and/or computational approaches to study how large-scale distributed brain networks implement behavioural-level phenomena such as sensorimotor control and decision-making, with a particular emphasis on system-level learning mechanisms. Ideal candidates will either combine multi-electrode, multi-area neurophysiological studies in behaving animals (in particular non-human primates) with sophisticated computational modeling of brain function, or alternatively, will use predominantly computational approaches to study how biologically realistic large-scale and recurrent network models simulate behavioral-level phenomena. The Département de neurosciences offers state of the art laboratory space and animal facilities for rodent and non-human primates research. Montréal is a rich academic environment, with 4 major universities and a strong tradition of systems neuroscience. The candidates will have outstanding opportunities for collaborations with other systems neuroscientists at the Université de Montréal, McGill University, Concordia University and the Université du Québec à Montréal, as well as with leading experts in artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep-learning networks who are centered in the MILA/IVADO at the Université de Montréal. Responsibilities - The appointed candidate will be expected to maintain an active research program, supervise graduate students, have international collaborations, contribute to the academic life of the Department of Neurosciences, and teach undergraduate and graduate courses. - The candidate will collaborate closely with researchers working in three affiliated research centers at University of Montreal: CHU-Ste Justine (Pediatric Hospital), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montréal, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal. - The teaching language is French; consequently, non-French-speaking candidates should become able to teach in French no longer than three years after their appointment. Requirements - The candidate needs to hold a PhD in neurosciences (or equivalent) and demonstrate significant experience at the post-doctoral level in the field of computational neurosciences. - The candidate needs to show exceptional track record in the field, including in sensorimotor control, decision making, neurophysiological studies in living animal, and computational approaches in order to study how neural network are modeling behavior. - The candidate needs to hold teaching experience at graduate and undergraduate levels, as well as experience in supervising post-doctoral fellowships, research assistants, and highly qualified research personal. - We will prioritize candidates with exceptional research productivity with a publication of articles in the best journals in the field, as well as a strong track record of research funding from national and international research agencies. - The ability and interest of the candidate to work in a multidisciplinary team (biochemists, biologists, engineers, bio informaticians, and clinicians) is mandatory. - Have sufficient knowledge of the French language (written and spoken) or be determined to learn it *. General information Posting No: MED 4-18 / 4 Posting period: June 15th, 2018 Salary: The University of Montreal offers a competitive salary and a complete range of employee benefits Start date: Autumn 2018. The announcement will remain open until the selection committee finds an acceptable candidacy. Application procedure Interested candidates should send their curriculum vitae, a letter explaining their motivation, research interest and competence in their area of expertise, and three letters of support, no later than June 15th 2018; at the following address (email correspondence is preferred): Dr Patrick Cossette, directeur Département de neurosciences Faculté de médecine Université de Montréal C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville Montréal (Québec) H3C 3J7 E-mail : nancy.crete(a)umontreal.ca <mailto:nancy.crete@umontreal.ca> *Linguistic Policy The Université de Montréal is a Québec University with an international reputation. French is the language of instruction. To renew its teaching faculty, the University is intensively recruiting the worlds best specialists. In accordance with the institutions language policy, the Université de Montréal provides support for newly-recruited faculty to attain proficiency in French. Confidentiality The Université de Montréal application process allows all regular professors in the Department to have access to all documents unless the applicant explicitly states in her or his cover letter that access to the application should be limited to the selection committee. This restriction on accessibility will be lifted if the applicant is invited for an interview. Equal Access Employment Program Université de Montréal promotes diversity in its workforce and encourages members of visible and ethnic minorities as well as women, Aboriginal people, persons with disabilities and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities to apply. Immigration Requirements We invite all qualified candidates to apply at Université de Montréal. However, in accordance with immigration requirements in Canada, please note that priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Paul Cisek, PhD Département de neurosciences Université de Montréal Physical: 2960 chemin de la tour, local 4117 Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 CANADA Mailing: CP 6128 Succursale centre-ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7 CANADA e-mail: <mailto:paul.cisek@gmail.com> paul.cisek(a)gmail.com Web: www.cisek.org/pavel <http://www.cisek.org/pavel>

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