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Postdoc positions available at University of Pittsburgh

by Runyan, Caroline A.

Postdoctoral positions are available in the Runyan lab in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh and the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition. Our research involves dissecting inhibitory and neuromodulatory circuits across the cortical hierarchy. Our goal is to understand how changes in behavioral context and brain state shift local information processing and the transmission of information between cortical networks. We use two-photon imaging of population activity and optogenetics in head-fixed mice performing perceptual decision-making tasks. See Runyan et al., Nature, 2017 and carolinerunyan.org<http://carolinerunyan.org> for more information about our work. We are seeking individuals with experience in two-photon imaging, large-scale electrophysiology, optogenetics, and/or computational modeling. As we build our laboratory and our own approach to understanding the brain, the ideal candidates should have strongly driven scientific curiosity and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills. This position offers the opportunity to participate in building a new research program, and to work in the highly collaborative, collegial environment at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. See cnbc.cmu.edu and cnup.neurobio.pitt.edu for more details. Interested candidates should send a CV, statement of research interests, and contact information for at least two references to runyan(a)pitt.edu. Caroline Runyan Assistant Professor Department of Neuroscience University of Pittsburgh Office: Langley A453, 412-383-4336 runyan(a)pitt.edu

Oct. 11, 2017

Postdoctoral position at the University of Rochester

by Tatiana Pasternak

Postdoctoral position in cognitive neuroscience Postdoctoral position to study cortical circuitry underlying memory-guided visual decisions is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Tatiana Pasternak in the Department of Neuroscience and Center for Visual Science. The focus of the research program is on the activity of large populations of simultaneously recorded neurons across cortical network to identify on a trial-by-trial basis neural codes and network dynamics that underlie memory and comparison processes during perceptual decisions. The analysis will emphasize inter-neuronal and inter-areal interactions and synchrony as well as population decoding algorithms. Experimental approaches include array recording of spiking and LFP activity from prefrontal and extrastriate visual cortical regions of non-human primates during memory-guided sensory comparison tasks. Other approaches include reversible inactivation and microstimulation of identified cortical sites. An important component of the work is a collaboration with computational neuroscientists and developing models 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 Departments of Neuroscience, Brain & Cognitive Science, Biomedical Engineering, and Center for Visual Science University of Rochester 585 275-8668 (office)

Oct. 10, 2017

PhD positions at the Max Planck Research School for Neural Circuits, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

by Jochen Triesch

8th Call for applications: International Max Planck Research School for Neural Circuits, Frankfurt am Main, Germany The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Neural Circuits was established in 2011 and offers up to ten fully-paid positions every year for talented students holding a relevant Master´s or Bachelor´s as their highest degree to perform research resulting in a PhD. The program is taught in English. The common focus of the the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Neural Circuits will be the understanding of neural circuits (from the simple to the large and complex), at all scales required to achieve this understanding. This ambitious objective will require analyses at the molecular, cellular, multi-cellular, network and behavioral levels, with the full understanding that macroscopic phenomena (spatial patterns, dynamics) can be scale-dependent, and that reductionism is not always sufficient as a method. Research areas are perception, connectomics, theoretical neuroscience, synaptic plasticity, brain dynamics, neural circuits, behavior and systems neuroscience. In the IMPRS for Neural Circuits we offer a multidisciplinary program to excellent doctoral students with backgrounds in neuroscience, mathematics, physics, computer science, (bio) chemistry, biology and medicine as well as research experience in the participating institutions of the Frankfurt Neuroscience community. Students will participate in a tailor-made educational program including research rotations and neuroscience courses but also in trainings in transferable skills as well as retreats, conferences and summer schools and lecture series. We welcome excellent students to apply to the program. Till December 1, 2017, it will be possible to apply for a position starting in the Fall of 2018. You can apply via our electronic registration system. After the deadline, the Faculty members will select around 25 students to participate in the interview symposium in Frankfurt, taking place in February 5-7, 2018. Shortly after the symposium, the students will receive a letter with an offer or rejection. More information, including Frequently Asked Questions, can be found on our website www.imprs.brain.mpg.de. -- 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

Oct. 10, 2017

2 postdoc positions in Geometric Methods for Deep and Reinforcement Learning at RIST

by Luigi Malagò

=========================================================== *Subject*: 2 postdoc positions in Machine Learning (1 year, renewable up to 3 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*: 20 October 2017 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) *Salary*: around 2190 euro net *Official announcement*: http://rist.ro/en/details/news/postdoc- positions-in-deep-learning-and-machine-learning.html =========================================================== Dear colleagues, the Romanian Institute of Science and Technology (RIST) has an opening for 2 postdoc positions, 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 3 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-learning-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: 20 October 2017 (applicants are encouraged to apply earlier) best regards, Luigi Malagò

Oct. 9, 2017

Doctoral studies in Computational/Theoretical Neuroscience at NYU

by Eero Simoncelli

New York University is home to a thriving interdisciplinary community of researchers using computational and theoretical approaches in neuroscience. We are interested in PhD candidates with strong quantitative training (e.g., physics, mathematics, engineering) coupled with a clear interest in brain sciences. A list of relevant faculty, sorted by their primary departmental affiliation, is provided below. Doctoral programs are flexible, allowing students to pursue research across departmental boundaries. Nevertheless, admissions are handled separately by each department, and students interested in pursuing graduate studies should submit an application to the program that best fits their goals and interests. Neural Science (CNS) (deadline: 1 December) [http://www.cns.nyu.edu/doctoral/] * AndrÃ© A. Fenton - Molecular, neural, behavioral, and computationalaspects of memory. * Paul W. Glimcher - Decision-making in humans and animals. Neuroeconomics. * Roozbeh Kiani - Vision and decision-making. * Wei Ji Ma (also in Psychology) - Perception, working memory, and decision-making. * Tony Movshon - Vision and visual development. * Bijan Pesaran - Neuronal dynamics and decision-making. * Alex Reyes - Functional interactions of neurons in a network. * John Rinzel (also in Mathematics) - Biophysical mechanisms and theory of neural computation. * Cristina Savin (also in CDS) - Computational models of memory, machine learning. * Robert Shapley - Visual physiology and perception. * Eero Simoncelli - Computational vision and audition, image processing. * Xiao-Jing Wang - Computational neuroscience, decision-making and working memory, neural circuits. Neuroscience and Physiology program, School of Medicine (deadline: 1 December) [http://neuroscience.med.nyu.edu/training-programs/graduate-program-neurosci…] * Gyorgy Buzsaki - Rhythms in neural networks. * Dmitri Chklovskii (also in the Simons Foundation) - Neural computation and connectomics. * Dmitry Rinberg - Sensory information processing in the behaving animal. * Mario Svirsky - Auditory neural prostheses; experimental/computational studies of speech production/perception. Psychology, Cognition & Perception program (deadline: 1 December) [http://www.psych.nyu.edu/programs/cp/] * Todd Gureckis - Memory, learning, and decision processes. * David Heeger (also in CNS) - fMRI, computational neuroscience, vision, attention. * Brenden Lake (also in CDS) - Computational modeling of cognition. * Michael Landy - Computational approaches to vision. * Laurence Maloney - Mathematical approaches to psychology and neuroscience. * Gary Marcus - Origins of the human mind. * Denis Pelli - Visual object recognition. * Jonathan Winawer - Visual perception and memory. Center for Data Science (CDS) (deadline: 18 December) [https://cds.nyu.edu/academics/phd-in-data-science/] * Joan Bruna (also in Computer Science) - Machine learning, signal/image processing. * Kyungyun Cho (also in Computer Science) - Machine learning, natural language processing. * Carlos Fernandez-Granda (also in Mathematics) - Optimization methods for medical imaging, neuroscience, computer vision. Mathematics (deadline: 18 December) [http://math.nyu.edu/degree/phd/] * David Cai - Nonlinear stochastic behavior in physical and biological systems. * Aaditya Rangan - Computational neurobiology, numerical analysis. * Michael Shelley - Modeling and large-scale computation, computational visual neuroscience. * Daniel Tranchina - Information processing in the retina. * Lai-Sang Young - Dynamical systems, statistical physics, computational modeling and theoretical neuroscience. Physics (deadline: 18 December) [http://physics.as.nyu.edu/page/graduate] * Marc Gershow - Perception, decision-making, and learning in neural circuits. Computer Science (deadline: 12 December) [http://www.cs.nyu.edu/home/phd/] * Davi Geiger - Computational vision and learning. * Yann LeCun - Machine learning, hierarchical visual processing, robotics. Economics (deadline: 18 December) [http://as.nyu.edu/econ/degree-programs/phd.html] * Andrew Caplin - Economic theory, neurobiology of decision. * Andrew Schotter - Experimental economics, game theory, neurobiology of decision.

Oct. 9, 2017

Workshop announcement: The Probabilistic Brain, March 2018

by Ulrik Beierholm

Dear Colleagues We are very pleased to invite you to an exciting 2-day workshop on *probabilistic approaches to learning, perception, and action* in the historic city of Durham in the North-East of England: see the workshop website <https://sites.google.com/view/tpbw2018/>. The workshop will take place on *March 23rd-24th 2018*, and registration is *open now*. Speakers: Vikranth Rao Bejjanki, Hamilton College ● Nick Chater, University of Warwick ● József Fiser, Central European University ● Aldo Faisal, Imperial College London ● Samuel Gershman, Harvard University ● Janneke Jehee, Donders Institute ● Rebecca Lawson, UCL / Cambridge ● Laurence T Maloney, NYU ● Pascal Mamassian, Ecole Normale Supérieure ● Christopher Summerfield, University of Oxford ● Jane Wang, Google DeepMind The workshop is supported by the Experimental Psychology Society and Durham University. For full info on the workshop format and topics, our location and travel, and Registration, please see the workshop website <https://sites.google.com/view/tpbw2018/>. Hope to see you there, The organisers, Marko Nardini ● Ulrik Beierholm ● Maria Olkkonen (Durham University) ● Tessa Dekker (UCL) ● Laurence T Maloney (NYU)

Oct. 8, 2017

[jobs] Assistant and Associate Professor positions in Bio- and Neural Robotics in Odense

by Poramate Manoonpong

The Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute, University of Southern Denmark, invites applications for Assistant or Associate Professor with research focus in Neural Robotics, Bio-inspired or Biorobotics, available from January 2018 and based in Odense. The positions are based in the Embodied Systems for Robotics and Learning (ESRL) unit and will complement the unit's existing research activities: - biorobotics; - neural models of control for embodied robots; - bio-inspired / neural learning mechanisms; - cross-modal and multi-modal sensory interpretation; - development of bio-inspired and embodied robotic hardware; - bio-inspired collective behaviour in robot groups; - embedded electronics design and research; - development and use of robotic educational tools; - morphological computation and the role of embodiment. Duties comprise research and teaching, student project supervision and acquisition of external funding. If you have a Ph.D. in a computing, mathematical, computational neuroscience or robotics-related discipline and a research track record including strong interdisciplinary work in one or more of the topics above, send us an application: for more detail and application form see [1]. The closing date is the 27th of October, 2017. For more information about these positions, please contact Professor John Hallam <john(a)mmmi.sdu.dk<mailto:john@mmmi.sdu.dk>>. [1] https://ssl1.peoplexs.com/Peoplexs22/CandidatesPortalNoLogin/Vacancy.cfm?Po…

Oct. 8, 2017

M-GATE: 15 PhD positions available in leading labs across Europe on the physiology and circuits of memory [WITH FIXED LINK; APOLOGIES]

by Francesco Battaglia

M-GATE is a network of 8 leading European institutions funded by a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Action of the European Commission, for 15 PhD students Healthy brain physiology, as well as diseases of memory circuits such as epilepsy and Alzheimer will be studied. Detailed circuit analysis approaches in animals will be combined with work on human subjects and theoretical approaches. New experimental and analytical technologies will be developed and deployed, also in collaboration with industrial partners. Positions are available with the following PIs: - Dr. Francesco Battaglia (network coordinator)/Dr. Lisa Genzel Donders Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands; - Dr. Clifford Kentros; NTNU, Trondheim, Norway - Dr. Hugo Spiers; University College London - Dr. Christophe Bernard Université d’Aix/Marseille, France - Dr. Pim Drinkenburg; Janssen Pharmaceutica BV, Beerse, Belgium - Dr. Alessandro Treves; SISSA International School for Advanced Studies, Trieste, Italy - Dr. Nachum Ulanovsky; Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel - Dr. Misha Tsodyks; Weizmann Institute, Rehovot Israel - Dr. Rosa Cossart; Institut de neurobiologie de la Mediterranée, Marseille France We will offer to the students a training program including events at all participating institutions, including theoretical courses, experimental methodologies and transferable skills. The details of the network and all projects are available at our website http://www.mgate.eu <http://www.mgate.eu/> requirements and application procedures vary by PhD project, as described in the website. Please contact the project PIs (addresses available on the website) for questions on the project. General inquiries may be directed to the network coordinators at info(a)mgate.eu <mailto:info@mgate.eu>. In general, we will give full consideration to applications received by Nov., 30 2017.

Oct. 6, 2017

Two Post-doctoral positions available in Rome

by Aldo Genovesio

Two ERC funded Post-doctoral positions in Primate Neurophysiology are available in the laboratory of Aldo Genovesio at the Medical School of the Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. Both positions are of one year renewable for at least other two years. We are looking for candidates with a PhD in the field of neuroscience, statistics, biomedical engineering, computer science, or related fields with a background in training animals, recording and analysis of neuronal data or in computational neuroscience. Experience with data analysis, programming (C/C++ and Matlab), and a quantitative approach are important. One position is for a candidate with previous experience in training animals, recording and analysis of neuronal data. The other position is for a candidate with a background in computational neuroscience or computer science. He is expected to analyze the activity of large sets of single cells of simultaneously recorded neurons and local fields and to develop computational models of the data. The ERC project investigates using multi-site electrode arrays the neural activity underlying prediction, categorization, and monitoring of self and others goals actions in the prefrontal cortex during social interaction with a focus on the Frontal Pole cortex, a prefrontal area only recently investigated at the single cell level in our past studies. Inquiries should be addressed to genovesiolab(a)gmail.com. All interested candidates should send a CV, a brief description of research interests for a preliminary evaluation and names and contact of 2 references to genovesiolab(a)gmail.com. The start date is flexible. The salary will be determined based on the experience. Prof. Aldo Genovesio Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Sapienza University of Roma Piazzale Aldo Moro 5; 00185 Roma E-mail: aldo.genovesio(a)uniroma1.it

Oct. 6, 2017

AoN Brainhack Warsaw 2017 - call for participants - early bird registration till 15.10

by Daniel Borek

*AoN Brainhack Warsaw 2017* *November 17-19, 2017* *University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland* *— The early bird registration extended to 15th October2017 — * On the weekend of *17-19th November 2017*, the first edition of AoN Brainhack Warsaw will take place. During this three-day event dedicated to students and PhD students, we will work in teams on* neuroscience-related projects*. The aim of the event is to meet new, enthusiastic researchers, make new friendships in academia, learn, share the knowledge on data mining and brain research, but also promote open science in the spirit of the whole Brainhack community ( <https://gigascience.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13742-016-0121-x>Craddock et al., 2016) <https://gigascience.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13742-016-0121-x>. Attendees of various backgrounds are welcome to join! Below you could see list of projects which will be realised during our three day event: 1. Functional connectivity research: can we find a common ground? <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity> 2. Detecting trypophobia triggers <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23trypophobia> 3. Development of video game for studying joint action dynamics <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23game> 4. Training a human-like movie evaluation system based on the semantic features of the storylines <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23movies> 5. Hypothesis-driven white matter tractography from T1-weighted MRI images <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23whitematter> 6. One channel EEG sleep staging with open source and open hardware NeuroOn sleep mask <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23neuroon> 7. Building a brain-ageing biomarker using machine learning <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23ageingbiomarker> 8. Building and using the “FlyPi”: the 3D-printed Neurobiology Lab <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/#connectivity%23flypi> *‘Early bird’* registration for project participants,* closes on 15th October 2017*. The applications will be reviewed and the notification of acceptance will be sent to the applicants until 20th October2017. We welcome everyone at the AoN Brainhack Warsaw 2017 event. We would like to prepare the equipment and the clusters properly before the event, therefore we are asking the participants to register in advance and choose the projects of their preference. We will do our best to make sure that everyone can take part in the project they like, and that the projects are well prepared for the participants. In any case, we welcome everyone to come, watch the event and help us at the first Brainhack in the history of AoN conference! A registration fee of 25EUR (or 100PLN) will be requested upon acceptance. The registration fee will be spent on the catering during the event. To register please visit our page and learn more about the Brainhack Warsaw! https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/ <https://brainhackwarsaw.github.io/> We looking forward to see you in Warsaw! *The AoN Brainhack Warsaw 2017 team*

Oct. 6, 2017

M-GATE: 15 PhD positions available in leading labs across Europe on the physiology and circuits of memory

by Francesco Battaglia

M-GATE is a network of 8 leading European institutions funded by a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Action of the European Commission. We offer to 15 promising young researchers the opportunity to get a world-class doctoral training and do cutting edge research on memory circuits. Healthy brain physiology, as well as diseases of memory circuits such as epilepsy and Alzheimer will be studied. Detailed circuit analysis approaches in animals will be combined with work on human subjects and theoretical approaches. New experimental and analytical technologies will be developed and deployed, also in collaboration with industrial partners. Positions are available with the following PIs: - Dr. Francesco Battaglia (network coordinator) Donders Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands; - Dr. Rosa Cossart; Institut de neurobiologie de la Mediterranée, Marseille France - Dr. Hugo Spiers; University College London - Dr. Christophe Bernard Université d’Aix/Marseille, France - Dr. Pim Drinkenburg; Janssen Pharmaceutica BV, Beerse, Belgium - Dr. Clifford Kentros; NTNU, Trondheim, Norway - Dr. Alessandro Treves; SISSA International School for Advanced Studies, Trieste, Italy - Dr. Nachum Ulanovsky; Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel - Dr. Misha Tsodyks; Weizmann Institute, Rehovot Israel We will offer to the students a training program including events at all participating institutions, including theoretical courses, experimental methodologies and transferable skills. The details of the network and all projects are available at our website http://www.mgate.eu <http://www.maget.eu/>. Job requirements and application procedures vary by PhD project, as described in the website. Please contact the project PIs (addresses available on the website) for questions on the project. General inquiries may be directed to the network coordinators at info(a)mgate.eu <mailto:info@mgate.eu>. In general, we will give full consideration to applications received by Nov., 30 2017.

Oct. 6, 2017

Open position: Expert in machine learning and high-performance computing

by Daniel Zysman

The Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences seeks an expert in machine learning and high-performance computing to collaborate on cutting edge research on neuroscience, perception, cognition, and artificial intelligence. The department is a world leader in computational approaches to brain science, and is home to state-of-the-art computing resources as well as the Center for Brains, Minds and Machines, a multi-institutional NSF Science and Technology Center dedicated to the study of intelligence. Salary will be competitive with industry. To apply: https://careers.peopleclick.com/careerscp/client_mit/external/jobDetails.do… <https://careers.peopleclick.com/careerscp/client_mit/external/jobDetails.do…> For more information about our department: https://bcs.mit.edu/ <https://bcs.mit.edu/> Job Description: PROGRAMMER/SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER/COMPUTATIONAL AND MACHINE LEARNING SPECIALIST, Brain and Cognitive Sciences, to help tackle challenging problems in high-performance computing methods and systems, machine learning, management of large datasets, and artificial intelligence. Responsibilities include helping researchers translate computational algorithms into efficiently functioning (especially parallelized and GPU optimized) code; assisting with installation and implementation of third-party tools; staying up-to-date with cutting-edge computational techniques; providing guidance for storage and management of large data sets; developing and maintaining online courses for computing resources, running in-person tutorials on specific software packages/tools, and helping transition users to new computing tools; providing educational support and training to users of the departmental computing cluster; and monitoring cluster usage and resolving problems. Job Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred) in a scientific field or computer science; at least four years’ experience in scientific high-performance (cluster) computing; familiarity with Slurm and Lustre; broad computational background with knowledge of Unix, HPC algorithms, GPU computing, programming models, debuggers, and performance tools; software development experience, especially Python and MATLAB, but also R, Lua, JavaScript, etc.; knowledge of high-level APIs for HPC computing; expertise installing and maintaining third-party software in an HPC environment and with container technology, especially in the context of computational reproducibility; familiarity with mathematical algorithms for high-performance computing, use or design of HPC profiling or optimization tools, and deep neural networks; ability to work effectively with scientists and engineers; initiative, tact, and judgment in developing solutions for users; excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively, orally, in writing, and via live presentations; demonstrated ability to assume leadership roles, grasp complex problems, and develop solutions; and extensive background in high-performance computing. MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.

Oct. 5, 2017

Lecturer (Assistant Prof.) in Computational Neuroscience at Univ. of Leicester

by Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo (Prof.)

We are currently recruiting a lecturer in computational neuroscience at the Centre for Systems Neuroscience (CSN) within the Department Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour (NPB), at the University of Leicester. The successful candidate will have an international research profile, and will advance an interdisciplinary program in synergy with CSN (for details see: www.le.ac.uk/csn) Particular areas of interest are advanced analysis and modeling of neurophysiological data, mechanisms of behavior, population activity and principles of neural coding. For details see: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BEI917/lecturer-in-computational-neuroscience/ Cheers, Rodrigo Rodrigo Quian Quiroga Centre for Systems Neuroscience University of Leicester www.le.ac.uk/csn

Oct. 5, 2017

COSYNE 2018: Call for workshop proposals and Meeting announcement

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2018 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 01 - 04 March 2018 Denver, Colorado WORKSHOPS 05 - 06 March 2018 Breckenridge, Colorado www.cosyne.org ==================================================== IMPORTANT DATES NEW Workshop pre-proposal deadline: 14 October 2017 NEW Workshop proposal deadline: 10 November 2017 Abstract submission opens: 10 October 2017 Abstract submission deadline: 20 November 2017 ---------------------------------------------------- MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. For details on workshop proposals please see below or visit Cosyne.org -> Workshops. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, and computation with spiking networks. This year we would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. COSYNE SPEAKERS Tim Behrens (Oxford) Josh Berke (UCSF) Tiago Branco (UCL) Jessica Cardin (Yale) Claudia Clopath (Imperial) Marlene Cohen (Pittsburgh) Iain Couzin (Max-Planck) Carina Curto (Penn State) Ann Graybiel (MIT) Vivek Jayaraman (Janelia) Mate Lengyel (Cambridge) Joni Wallis (Berkeley) Byron Yu (CMU) When preparing an abstract, authors should be aware that not all abstracts can be accepted for the meeting, due to space constraints. Abstracts will be selected based on the clarity with which they convey the substance, significance, and originality of the work to be presented. ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Ilana Witten (Princeton) and Eric Shea-Brown (U Washington) Program Chairs: Linda Wilbrecht (Berkeley) and Brent Doiron (U Pittsburgh) Workshop Chairs: Laura Busse (LMU) and Ralf Haefner (U Rochester) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Robert Wilson (U Arizona) Publicity Chair: Il Memming Park (Stony Brook) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org ----------------------------------------------- CALL FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS ----------------------------------------------- PRE-PROPOSALS In an effort to coordinate submissions, the organizers are encouraged to submit a pre-proposal by *14 October 2017.* Pre-proposals will be shared among submitters. Pre-proposals are not mandatory but workshops with a pre-proposal will have priority. The organizers may submit the full proposal by its deadline. A series of workshops will be held after the main Cosyne meeting (www.cosyne.org) The goal is to provide an informal forum for the discussion of important research questions and challenges. Controversial issues, open problems, comparisons of competing approaches, and alternative viewpoints are encouraged. The overarching goal of all workshops should be the integration of empirical and theoretical approaches, in an environment that fosters collegial discussion and debate. Preference will be given to proposals that differ substantially in content, scope, and/or approach from workshops of recent years (examples available at Cosyne.org -> Workshops). Relevant topics include, but are not limited to: sensory processing; motor planning and control; functional neural circuits; motivation, reward and decision making; learning and memory; adaptation and plasticity; neural coding; neural circuitry and network models; and methods in computational or systems neuroscience. In order to foster discussion within Workshops and reduce overlap between workshops, organizers should inform invited speakers that a single person should not speak in more than one of the Workshops taking place on the same day. WORKSHOP DETAILS - There will be 4-8 workshops/day, running in parallel. - Each workshop is expected to draw between 15 and 80 people. - The workshops will be split into morning (8.00-11.00 AM) and afternoon (4.30-7.30 PM) sessions. - Workshops will be held at Breckenridge, CO, a ski resort located 100 miles (approximately two hours) from the Denver International Airport. Buses from the main conference will be provided. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS Deadline for pre-proposals: 14 October 2017 Deadline for proposals: 10 November 2017 Format: plain text only, please no attachments, email to workshops [at] cosyne.org (Laura Busse, Ralf Haefner) PRE-PROPOSALS should include: - Name(s) and email address(es) of the organizers (no more than 2 organizers per session, please). A primary contact should be designated. - A title. - A brief description of 1) what the workshop will address and accomplish, 2) why the topic is of interest, 3) who is the targeted group of participants. - Names of potential invitees, with indication of confirmed speakers. Preference will be given to workshops with the most confirmed speakers. - Proposed workshop length (1 or 2 days). Most workshops will be limited to a single day. If you think your workshop needs 2 days, please explain why. - A brief resume of the workshop organizer along with a short list of workshop-relevant publications (about half a page total). FULL PROPOSALS should include the list of confirmed speakers in addition to components required for a pre-proposal. Workshop organizer responsibilities include coordinating workshop participation and content, scheduling all speakers and submitting a final schedule for the workshop program, and moderating the discussion. Organizers can be speakers but need not speak depending on scheduling constraints. SUGGESTIONS Experience has shown that the best discussions during a workshop are those that arise spontaneously. A good way to foster these is to have short talks and long question periods (e.g. 30+15 minutes), and have plenty of breaks. We recommend fewer than 10 talks. WORKSHOP COSTS Detailed registration costs, etc, will be available at www.cosyne.org. Please note: Cosyne does NOT provide travel funding for workshop speakers. All workshop speakers are expected to pay for workshop registration fees. Participants are encouraged to register early, in order to qualify for discounted registration rates. One complementary (free) organizer registration is provided per workshop. For workshops with 2 organizers, the free registration can be given to one of the organizers or split evenly between them. COSYNE WORKSHOP QUESTIONS workshops [at] cosyne.org COSYNE MAILING LISTS Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> Mailing lists for details.

Oct. 5, 2017

High performance computing workshop at SFN 2017

by Ted Carnevale

Seats are still available in the workshop Using the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) for Parallel Simulations Saturday, Nov. 11 from 9 AM to noon which we are presenting in downtown Washington, DC as a satellite to this year's SFN meeting. NSG eliminates most technical and adminstrative barriers to using high performance computing resources, and even gives away free CPU time on parallel supercomputers. Software currently installed on NSG includes BluePyOpt, Brian, CARLsim, Freesurfer, GENESIS, MATLAB, MOOSE, NEST, NEURON, PyNN, and the Virtual Personalized Multimodal Connectome Pipeline. At this workshop you will learn how to use this NSF-supported resource in your computationally-intensive modeling and data analysis projects. You will also hear presentations from several research teams about how they are using NSG in their own research. For a description of the workshop and its application form, see http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2017/nsg2017.html The registration deadline is Friday Oct. 28. --Ted

Oct. 4, 2017

Postdoctoral Position in Computational Approaches to Rodent Social Neurophysiology

by Liu, Robert C

Postdoctoral Position in Computational Approaches to Rodent Social Neurophysiology Yerkes National Primate Research Center and the Department of Biology Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia The laboratories of Robert Liu, Gordon Berman and Larry Young at Emory University are accepting applications for a postdoctoral scientist working in a collaborative team to use quantitative behavioral and electrophysiological methods to study pro-social interactions in rodents. The research combines recent advances in computational ethology (Berman et al, Interface, 2014) with in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics in socially interacting prairie voles (Amadei, Johnson et al, Nature, 2017), a premier rodent model for the formation of social bonds (Lim et al, Nature, 2004). Our NIH-funded project's goal is to use prior behavioral and neurophysiological activity to build predictive models of social dynamics leading to a pair bond. PhD required. We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in experimental, in vivo extracellular electrophysiology (ideally in rodents) and computational data analysis and scientific programming. Training in the neurobiology of social behavior, social information processing, sensorimotor integration, and/or the neural circuitry for reward and reinforcement would also be viewed favorably. Emory University and the Yerkes National Primate Research Center have a rich, collaborative neuroscience community (http://biomed.emory.edu/PROGRAM_SITES/NS/) especially in the areas of translational social neuroscience (http://ctsn.emory.edu/) and computational neuroscience (http://compneurosci.college.emory.edu/) Research at Emory in the neurobiology of social behavior extends across many labs from the molecular level through the organismal level in animal models and humans, with a particular interest in the functions of oxytocin (http://www.oxytocin.emory.edu/) Ongoing efforts include both elucidating normal processes and ameliorating deficits found in human conditions, like autism spectrum disorder. To inquire or apply, please email robert.liu(a)emory.edu<mailto:robert.liu@emory.edu>. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue at least through Oct. 31, or until the position is filled. Applications should include a CV, the names and full contact information of 3 references, and at least one representative publication. Emory University is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. References: Amadei EA*, Johnson ZV*, Kwon YJ, Shpiner AC, Saravanan V, Mays W, Ryan S, Walum H, Rainnie D, Young LJ, Liu RC (2017). Dynamic corticostriatal activity biases social bonding in monogamous female prairie voles, Nature, 546(7657):297-301. doi:10.1038/nature22381<http://www.nature.com/articles/doi:10.1038/nature22381> Berman GJ, Choi DM, Bialek W, Shaevitz JW (2014). Mapping the stereotyped behaviour of freely moving fruit flies. Journal of the Royal Society Interface, 11(99):20140672. doi:10.1098/rsif.2014.0672<http://doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2014.0672> Lim, MM, Wang Z, Olazábal DE, Ren X, Terwilliger EF, Young LJ (2004). Enhanced partner preference in promiscuous species by manipulating the expression of a single gene. Nature, 429(6993):754-757. doi:10.1038/nature02539<http://www.readcube.com/articles/10.1038/nature02539> Robert C. Liu, PhD Associate Professor Department of Biology Emory University O. W. Rollins Research Center Rm 2131 1510 Clifton Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30322 USA Phone: +1 404-727-5274 Email: robert.liu(a)emory.edu<mailto:robert.liu@emory.edu> Lab Website<http://www.biology.emory.edu/research/Liu/html/index.php> ________________________________ This e-mail message (including any attachments) is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this message (including any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender by reply e-mail message and destroy all copies of the original message (including attachments).

Oct. 4, 2017

Quantification of the Function of Criticality: Call for Contributions

by Nergis Tomen

[Apologies if you received this message more than once] Dear Colleagues, We are calling for abstracts for contributions towards a publication on *The Functional Role of Critical Dynamics* *in Neural Systems*. The collection will be published by Springer and will be free of charge for the authors. The main aim of this collection will be to bring together research and ideas linking together criticality in the cortex, dynamical and emergent network states and the putative role such states may serve in the way of function and computational advantages. The intended format of the book is a collection of short and concise chapters focusing around this central theme, in order to allow for many different perspectives to be represented. If you would like take part in this publication, please send an extended abstract summarizing your planned contribution, following the guidelines below, to A. Janssen (*ajanssen**(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de* <ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de>) who will be coordinating the communications by *October* *25th*. For details of the planned contents and structure of the full contributions, as well as our expected timeline, please see below. Full papers will be expected by the end of this year. Best wishes, Udo Ernst & Nergis Tomen & Michael Herrmann *Guidelines for your contribution * We are aiming for a publication that will give a broad overview of the state of research linking neuronal avalanches and self-organized criticality (SOC) to neural function and information processing (for the related concepts please see e.g. [Bak, Tang and Wiesenfeld, 1987] and [Beggs and Plenz, 2003]). Due to the computational advantages of simple systems operating close to a phase transition (e.g. [Langton, 1990]), there has been a growing interest in the neuroscience community in the recent years to tackle the question “Can critical dynamics be useful for the brain?”. And this was the central theme of the *Excellence Workshop "Dynamical network states, criticality and cortical function"* that took place on 25-28 March 2017 in Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg, Delmenhorst, Germany ( *http://www.h-w-k.de/index.php?id=2240* <http://www.h-w-k.de/index.php?id=2240>). In light of the positive feedback and interest we received from the community, we are now aiming to bring together different ideas and approaches related to critical dynamics and its potential functional role in cortical information processing, and we are looking forward to your contributions. We will have a two-stage submission process for the authors. The first stage is to submit an extended abstract that can be of any format, but should include a title and contact information of the authors and should begin with a very brief summary of the main message of the contribution. As a guideline it is suggested that the length of the extended abstract is 1 to 4 pages and that it contains 1 to 4 figures. Please submit your abstract to *ajanssen**(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de* <ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de> by *October 25th*. Full papers will be requested before the end of this year. The final papers are expected to include an easy-to-follow introduction, one or more well-evidenced claims and a substantial discussion section. The full papers are limited in size to 15-20 pages each (each page about 450 words), including figures and references. There will be LaTeX and MS Word templates provided by Springer for the full contributions. Each contribution will be peer-reviewed by at least 2 colleagues before being published. Each author of a contribution is also expected to act as a reviewer for 2-3 other contributions. We plan to include reviewers from outside the field to provide 'critical' input. Realistically, we estimate that the review process will start in in winter 2017 and end in spring 2018. We expect the submissions to present original research by the authors.This can include new results or review of past research by the authors (for review papers, it is allowed to include research by other persons where suitable, as long as it does not constitute a major part of the contribution). We believe it is important for contributions to put forward a vision or perspective on criticality research. It is important to make connections to the functionality of the concepts described in your contribution (e.g. how do the properties observed in your model/experiments relate to information transfer/processing, behavioural performance, computation, communication and configuration, etc.). Where applicable, it is allowed and encouraged to talk about predictions and theories about how the contents of a contribution may relate to active computation in the cortex, what practical advantages and biological mechanisms they may be linked to as well as what direction future research should take to answer such questions. We encourage the authors to actively try to draw connections between their own research, research of other scientists in their field as well as outside of their field (e.g. discussing ties with experimental results in a theoretical contribution and vice versa). Thank you for considering these guidelines.

Oct. 4, 2017

Start-up EEG hardware and data analytics roles at start-up

by Brian Murphy

BrainWaveBank's mission is to transform how cognitive illness is diagnosed and treated so that people can live longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives. Our 16-channel EEG headset is designed for home-use, and is supported by a platform of tablet-based games and cloud-based analytics to track cognitive performance and health. We are now expanding, and hiring a number of software, hardware and scientific roles into our Dublin and Belfast offices. We are seeking exceptional candidates for these roles (see links below for full details): - Senior EEG Research Engineer, Dublin • Full-time - EEG Research Engineer, Dublin • Full-time - Machine Learning Engineer, Dublin • Full-time - Cognitive Neuroscientist, Dublin • Full-time - EEG Hardware Design Lead, Belfast • Full-time - Full Cloud Stack SW Engineer, Belfast • Full-time - Senior Mobile Developer (Android), Belfast • Full-time - Trial Manager, Belfast • Full-time View full details of the roles and apply through: https://www.indeedjobs.com/brainwavebank/_hl/en_GB Learn more about the team and mission: http://www.brainwavebank.com -- Dr. Brian Murphy Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer BrainWaveBank Ltd M: +44 7716 686654 M: +353 86 0666732 E: brian(a)brainwavebank.com Twitter: @brainwavebank www.brainwavebank.com The information contained in this email transmission is confidential and may be privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, any use, dissemination, distribution, publication, or copying of the information contained in this email is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately notify us by telephone at +44 028 9264 6600 or email info(a)brainwavebank.com and delete the email from your system. Thank you for your co-operation. BrainWaveBank Ltd is a limited company registered in Northern Ireland. Registered number: NI628481. Registered office: 32-36 Dublin Road, Belfast BT2 7HN.

Oct. 4, 2017

Postdoc/programmer position at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology

by Erik De Schutter

The Computational Neuroscience unit (https://groups.oist.jp/cnu) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan has an opening for a postdoctoral researcher or technician in software development and computational modeling of stochastic neuronal reaction-diffusion processes. Initial duration is two years with an option to extend. The hired postdoctoral researcher or technician is expected to make valuable contributions to the STEPS project (http://steps.sourceforge.net) in two ways: 1) by researching molecular neuronal processes and designing novel techniques and routines for accurate computational modeling of such systems, and 2) contributing to realistic applications of the new techniques in biological modeling studies. In performing these tasks, the candidate is expected to contribute to publications that are either based on theory and computational techniques, or geared more towards answering real biological questions through computational modeling. As such the ideal candidate will have a scientific background but also possess good programming skills. There will be many opportunities to interact with other STEPS developers in our lab and also other researchers working on related cerebellar projects, and also to collaborate on STEPS development with the Blue Brain Project, EPFL, Geneva. Competences: For the postdoctoral position a recent PhD is required in a relevant discipline such as neuroscience, molecular biology, biophysics, biochemistry, and for a technician a masters degree is required in a similar discipline or computer science. For either position, we require a talented programmer with experience in C++ and Python. In satisfying these criteria, it is expected that the candidate has some experience of modeling neuronal or other biological processes computationally, but this is not essential if the candidate has a strong enough interest in moving into the field. Fluent English conversation and writing skills are required. Benefits / Offer: A competitive salary and relocation package are offered. This an ideal position to gain experience in a prominent computational neuroscience lab. Contributions of technicians are honored by authorship on relevant publications. Please contact Prof. Erik De Schutter (erik(a)oist.jp) for inquiries.

Oct. 4, 2017

Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience at UCSD

by Maxim Bazhenov

Applications are invited for post-doctoral research position in the laboratory of Dr. Maxim Bazhenov (http://www.bazhlab.ucsd.edu/) at the University of California, San Diego to study role of sleep in memory and learning. The ultimate goal of the project is to understand how the interaction among brain areas during sleep leads to consolidation of memory for recent learning and how sensory or electrical stimulation can enhance memory consolidation. This project involves close collaboration with several experimental laboratories. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design of the anatomically realistic brain network models based on experimental data. These models will be applied to understand network dynamics that are involved in the processes of memory consolidation, to design optimal stimulation approaches, to guide data analysis and to make predictions for future experimental studies. Qualified applicants are expected to have experience in computational/theoretical neuroscience and neural modeling. Programming experience with C/C++ is required. Knowledge of PYTHON and MATLAB is a significant plus. The University of California offers excellent benefits. Salary is based on research experience. Applicants should send a brief statement of research interests, a CV and the names of three references to Maxim Bazhenov at mbazhenov(a)ucsd.edu -- Maxim Bazhenov, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Medicine, Neurosciences Graduate Program, UCSD, School of Medicine http://www.bazhlab.ucsd.edu/

Oct. 3, 2017

PhD positions at the Univ. of Leicester (for UK/EU candidates only)

by Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo (Prof.)

Fully Funded PhD Studentships (for UK/EU candidates only) Centre for Systems Neuroscience, University of Leicester, UK. www.le.ac.uk/csn The Centre for Systems Neuroscience at the University of Leicester, UK, offers up to 2, 3-Year Fully Funded (stipend plus fees) PhD positions for UK/EU candidates, to study single cell recordings in humans – performed in epileptic patients for curative surgery. The project will investigate concept cells (a.k.a. Jennifer Aniston neurons) – that means, neurons in the hippocampus and surrounding areas that selectively fire to specific concepts, like different pictures and the written or spoken name of a particular person (e.g. Quian Quiroga et al, Nature 2005; Quian Quiroga Nature Reviews Neuroscience 2012), which are involved in declarative memory functions. The successful candidate will contribute to performing recordings with patients in collaborating hospitals and the analysis of the data to investigate the role of these neurons in memory formation. Candidates should have very good quantitative skills (data processing, and programing in Matlab), a strong background in neuroscience and, ideally, good experience with neurophysiology recordings. They should be able to work both independently and as part of a research team within the Centre for System Neuroscience at Leicester and with our external collaborators. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Valeria Zonato, Research Centre Manager, vz12(a)le.ac.uk or 0116 252 3249. Interested candidates should send their curriculum vitae and a brief description of their scientific interests to Valeria Zonato (vz12(a)le.ac.uk<mailto:vz12@le.ac.uk>). The closing date for the applications is Friday 6th October 2017.

Oct. 3, 2017

APA Technology, Mind, & Society Conference - Submissions due Oct 20

by Jeff Krichmar

Dear Colleagues, This upcoming APA conference on Technology, Mind, & Society may be of interest to many of you. Keynote speakers include Cynthia Breazeal (MIT, Jibo Inc.), Justine Cassell (CMU), Eric Horvitz (Microsoft Research Labs), and Alex "Sandy” Pentland (MIT). Paper submissions are due October 20th. See:http://pages.apa.org/tms/ Best regards, Jeff Krichmar Department of Cognitive Sciences 2328 Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA 92697-5100 jkrichma(a)uci.edu http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~jkrichma The American Psychological Association will hold an interdisciplinary conference on Technology, Mind, and Society in Washington, D.C., on April 5-7, 2018. Scientists, practitioners, policymakers, and students from around the world are invited to participate in the event. The conference will provide a venue for reporting and assessing current efforts to understand and shape the interactions of human beings and technology, for identifying priorities for future work, and for promoting exchange and collaboration among participants. The conference will feature four keynote speakers: Cynthia Breazeal (MIT), Justine Cassell (Carnegie Mellon), Eric Horvitz (Microsoft Research), and Sandy Pentland (MIT). APA invites you and your colleagues and students to submit papers, symposia, and posters for this conference, which will be organized around the following broad themes: • Basic research: How humans understand and use technology, impacts of technology on human experience and behavior, human-technology interactions as mutually adaptive systems, role of technology in advancing other areas of scientific research, and related topics. • Foundations of technology design: Development of technologies informed by psychological, behavioral, and social science research. • Applications: Development, use, and impact of specific technologies in domains such as aging, education, mental and physical health, recreation, and the workplace. • Broader implications: Ethical and policy questions concerning the opportunities and challenges arising from human-technology interactions. The deadline for submissions is October 20, 2017. The conference is open to researchers, professionals, and students in all relevant areas, including psychology and other behavioral and social sciences, neuroscience, computer science, engineering, design, health research, education research, city and regional planning, public policy, history of science and technology, and philosophy. The conference aims to address the full range of contemporary and emerging technologies. These include but are not limited to artificial intelligence, robotics, mobile devices, social media, virtual/augmented reality, gaming, geographic information systems, autonomous vehicles, and biomedical technologies (e.g., brain-machine interfaces, genetic engineering). APA is sponsoring the conference in cooperation with the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) and the Association for Computing Machinery — Special Interest Group for Computer-Human Interaction (ACM SIGCHI). We look forward to seeing you at the Technology, Mind, and Society Conference! For additional information, see the conference website (http://pages.apa.org/tms/) If you have any questions, please contact the APA Science Directorate (science(a)apa.org)

Oct. 1, 2017

Postdoc in computational neuroscience of consciousness

by Srivas Chennu

In the School of Computing at the University of Kent (UK), we are seeking to recruit a Research Associate to work on the computational neuroscience of consciousness. This post is part of the EPSRC project "A Computational Prototype for Electroencephalographic Brain Connectomics" awarded to Dr. Srivas Chennu. This exciting project sits at the interface of signal processing, machine learning and neuroscience. More information is available at the link below: https://www.cs.kent.ac.uk/people/staff/sc785/mohawk.html This role will involve: • Develop a computational prototype for electroencephalographic brain connectomics for discriminating states of awareness and use real datasets and develop simulations to test and validate the prototype. • Working with the PI, interact with collaborators at partner sites to explore deployment of the prototype at the bedside of patients with disorders of consciousness • Communicate and disseminate project outcomes in academic publications, scientific conferences, technical reports, web-based platforms and social media You will play a key role in this project, focusing on the development of the software prototype. In addition to working closely with Dr. Chennu, you will interact regularly with clinicians and neuroscientists at the Universities of Cambridge and Liége. Both partners have made available a large dataset of EEG acquired from patients and controls, which will be used to test and validate the prototype to be developed here. You will be supported in your role by Dr. Chennu, in addition to PhD students in the research group, and will be able to access the broad-ranging expertise available across other members of the Data Science group and the School of Computing. This is a fixed term post (to start in Jan 2018, date negotiable) and will provide the successful candidate with a rich collaborative environment: it is positioned within the recently formed Data Science group at the University of Kent, and will involve close collaboration with external partners at the Universities of Cambridge and Liège (Belgium). To succeed in this role you will: • A PhD in Computer Science/Neuroscience, or be near completion • Experience of EEG/MEG Signal Processing, Machine Learning in Neuroscience and MATLAB and/or Python in Neuroscience • Experience of working in a research environment and the ability to liaise with other external partners *The School of Computing* at Kent is a welcoming and supportive environment that has recently been recognised with a Bronze Athena SWAN award. We are a well-balanced, inclusive and diverse community that aims to further enhance our achievements and reputation in teaching, research and innovation. Start date for applications: 29 September 2017 Closing date for applications: 05 November 2017 Interviews are to be held: 29 November 2017 Please see the link below to view the full job description and also to apply for this post. If you require further information about this post/project please contact the PI, Dr. Srivas Chennu at sc785(a)kent.ac.uk. For any questions regarding the application process please contact The Resourcing Team on jobs(a)kent.ac.uk quoting ref number: STM0847 https://www11.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_kent01.asp?s=4A515F4E5A565B1A&jobid=41306, 5425238748&key=50937013&c=223465364822&pagestamp=sewzjjuhsdmqkvijvz

Sept. 30, 2017

Post-doctoral Research Scientist in Cochlear Implant Research, Psychoacoustics and Virtual Acoustics

by Seeber, Bernhard

Dear List, we are inviting applications for a post-doctoral research scientist to join our team in cochlear implant research, psychoacoustics and/or virtual acoustics. Main responsibilities are: - Research on binaural hearing and auditory scene analysis with normal hearing listeners and/or users of cochlear implants and/or - Development of techniques for and experiments in interactive audio-visual virtual reality - Development of listening tests and statistical analysis of the results - 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. We offer... you the opportunity to join an interdisciplinary team, to work with up-to-date technical equipment including an anechoic chamber hosting a virtual reality system, and to learn about the latest methods in hearing research. 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 find further information at www.aip.ei.tum.de. Employment is according to the state employees salary scheme (TV-L/E13) and is initially for 1 year with the option for extension. 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 also 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 stating research interests preferably by email no later than 31 October 2017 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. For further information about the post, including qualification requirements, please visit www.aip.ei.tum.de. Kind regards, Bernhard Seeber -- DAGA Conference Munich, 19.-22. March 2018 http://2018.daga-tagung.de/ Note: Abstract submission deadline: 01.11.2017 Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernhard U. Seeber Professor of Audio Information Processing Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering Technical University of Munich Arcisstrasse 21 D-80333 Munich, Germany Office: +49 89 289-28282 Fax: +49 89 289-28211 Mobile: +49 (0)174 928 6338 Visitors: Theresienstrasse 90, building N5, room N6504 Web: www.aip.ei.tum.de www.bseeber.de

Sept. 29, 2017

PhD Studentship in Computer Science -- University of Surrey, UK

by a.gruning＠surrey.ac.uk

% PhD Studentship in Computer Science % Studentship start date: January 2018 % Application deadline: September 30, 2017 # Funding amount Fee waiver and a stipend of £16,000 per annum for a Home (UK/EU) student # Position Summary Applications are invited for a cutting-edge 3-year Ph.D. project in the Department of Computer Science, University of Surrey, UK in a number of areas, including machine learning especially deep learning and neural networks, complex systems, and evolutionary computation, with application to biomedicine, transport, security and design optimisation. Applications are particularly welcome to one of the following highlighted projects: 1. Neural networks for biomedicine. The project will focus on constructing a framework for the formulation of bio-inspired learning rules for deep learning neural networks. Its aim is to develop a mathematical and conceptual framework within which bio-inspired learning algorithms can be formulated clearly and concisely for ease of their application, understanding, and generalisation. This project will build upon an ongoing project, namely the Human Brain Project (HBP), a multi-billion Flagship project funded by the EU Horizon 2020. This project area will be co-supervised by Dr Clive Cheong Took and Dr André Grüning. 2. Modelling and controlling the dynamics and time evolution of complex systems. The aim of this PhD is to develop a computational framework for maximising the effect of external interventions in a complex system, and do so in a predictable and trusted manner. Such systems include: transportation networks; social networks; multi-modal patient care systems; social-ecological systems; and many others where there are no single points of control or failure. The core objective is to bring together formal verification and machine learning and develop approaches that allow model checking and scenario appraisal in complex systems. This project area will be co-supervised by Dr Sotiris Moschoyiannis and Dr Clive Cheong Took. For more about the NICE group, see http://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/research/nice. # Department of Computer Science The Department of Computer Science at the University of Surrey, within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, has an international reputation for research and teaching. Our research excellence is reflected from the fact that Surrey’s research in computer science has been consistently ranked World Top 150 and UK Top 10 in the SJTU ARWU Subject Ranking in Computer Science since 2012. Similarly, Surrey’s Computer Science subject is ranked at 6 th position in the UK according to the latest Guardian University Guide 2018, which focuses more on teaching excellence. Research in the Department is focused on two main areas: Nature Inspired Computing and Engineering (NICE) and Secure Systems. The NICE group is internationally leading in the area of evolutionary computation, machine learning, brain-inspired computing and complex systems with application to optimisation, data analytics, image processing, swarm robotics, healthcare and bioinformatics. The Secure Systems 1 International (non-UK/EU) students are also eligible to apply, but will be expected to bring additional funding to cover the difference (currently £14,815 per year) between UK/EU and international fees: see https://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/pgr-fees. # Qualifications To apply you should have at least an upper second class honours degree (or overseas equivalent) in Computer Science, or a suitable technical science or engineering subject such as Computer Engineering and Electronic Engineering. Preference will be given to those with appropriate MSc or equivalent research/industrial experience in relevant areas. Experience in a relevant area is not required, but advantageous. The candidate is expected to have solid mathematical knowledge, including calculus and linear algebra. Hands-on skills in one of the programming languages is expected, such as Matlab, Python, Java, or C/C++. In addition, the applicant must have good communication skills and be fluent in English. We look for a candidate that is self-motivated, engaging, and is a team player. # Application Procedure The application process requires the submission of a CV, two letters of recommendation or contact information of two referees, copies of degree certificates and transcripts from all university-level courses taken. More information about how to apply can be found in the Computer Science PhD page by clicking on the ‘apply online’ button. In addition to the above, as part of your application, you are also required to upload the following documents: - Statement of purpose (1-3 pages) where you introduce yourself, explain why you want to pursue a PhD, present your qualifications and describe your future research plans; - Research proposal describing your research area of interest and motivation in one of the relevant areas. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly to arrange a suitable time for an interview. For any questions regarding the application process or an informal discussion about the position especially the highlighted projects, please contact the named supervisors of the specific project given before. For more general queries about the studentship contact Dr Andre Gruning <a.gruning(a)surrey.ac.uk> Surrey continuously strives to be an attractive employer. We acknowledge, understand and embrace diversity. # Useful links: Potential PhD Supervisors and their research interest and publications: - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/clive_cheong_took/ - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/andre_gruning/ - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/sotiris_moschoyiannis/ - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/yaochu_jin - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/paul_krause - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/people/hongying_tang PhD in Computer Science at Surrey: - http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/computer-science-phd - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/department-computer-science/study/postgraduate-res… - https://www.surrey.ac.uk/department-computer-science/study/postgraduate-res… The NICE group - http://www.surrey.ac.uk/cs/research/nice -- Brief? Here's why: http://emailcharter.org<http://emailcharter.org/> Dr Andre Gruning Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) Postgraduate Research Director Department of Computer Science University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH United Kingdom

Sept. 29, 2017