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Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Magnetoencephalographic imaging of dissociative anaesthetic action

by David Liley

Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Magnetoencephalographic imaging of dissociative anaesthetic action The Brain Dynamics Unit within the Brain and Psychological Research Centre at Swinburne University of Technology, in collaboration with the Universities of Michigan, Pennsylvania and Washington in St Louis, and supported financially by the James S McDonnell Foundation, is looking for a motivated and capable Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on the functional neuroimaging of anaesthetic action. The planned project, to be performed in collaboration with physician anaesthesiologists, will involve the administration of the dissociative anaesthetic agents xenon (a noble gas) and nitrous oxide ('laughing gas') to healthy participants while simultaneous MEG and EEG is recorded. The induced changes in the functional architecture of the recorded electromagnetic activity will then be characterised using a range of existing and to be developed information theoretic, graph theoretic and non-linear methods. Attempts to account for any induced changes in terms of mean field/mass action models of brain electrical activity will also be investigated. The dissociative anaesthetic agents are of particular interest because they are reported to increase activity in the brain in addition to targeting glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of psychiatric and neurological disorders. The position is intended for someone with substantial experience in recording MEG and the attendant source level analysis techniques (minimum norm, beamforming) in addition to possessing the requisite experience in existing and emerging methods used to estimate functional and effective brain connectivities from MEG and EEG data. Interested applicants should have a strong background in any of the following disciplines: theoretical physics, mathematics, biomedical or electrical engineering or quantitative biology. A first class honours degree or equivalent is required with proficiency in more than one of the following: C, Fortran, Python or Matlab in addition to substantial working knowledge of one or more of the following: FieldTrip, MNE, NutMEG, EEGlab, Brainstorm or SPM. Researchers in the unit, led by Prof David Liley, have developed a physiologically motivated theory of the dynamical genesis of the electroencephalogram (EEG). The model accounts for the rhythms of the human EEG and predicts their alteration by a range of pharmaceutical agents, in particular that of anaesthetic and sedative agents. Numerical solutions of the model's coupled set of non-linear partial differential equations have revealed spatio-temporal structures similar to those observed in experiment. It is hoped that this model can contribute to our understanding of how anaesthetic agents modulate brain activity. The Brain Dynamics group is part of the Brain and Psychological Sciences Research Centre (BPsyC), a vibrant, multi-disciplinary team of researchers whose expertise spans several different fields that include physics, psychology, psychophysiology, biophysics and the neurosciences. The BPsyC has among the most comprehensive suite of functional neuroimaging facilities available in Australia. These facilities include a 306 channel Elekta TRIUX MEG system, a Siemens 3T TIM Trio MRI and multiple high density EEG systems. Initial appointment will be for a period of 3 years at a salary level of no less than A6 (currently AUD 76,531) plus 17% superannuation. Interested applicants should email Prof. David T. J. Liley at dliley(at)swin.edu.au. Prof David T. J. Liley Brain Dynamics Brain and Psychological Sciences Research Centre Swinburne University of Technology Burwood Road Hawthorn 3122 Victoria Australia --------------------------- Prof David Liley Brain and Psychological Sciences Research Centre Swinburne University of Technology P.O. Box 218 Hawthorn VIC 3122 Australia ph: +61 3 9214 8812<tel:%2B61%203%209214%208812>

Oct. 9, 2015

Post doc research staff positions at HRL Laboratories in Malibu, CA

by Pilly, Praveen K

The Information and Systems Sciences Laboratory (ISSL) at HRL Laboratories (www.hrl.com<http://www.hrl.com>) is looking for two exceptional postdocs to join a world-class team aiming to build revolutionary non-invasive stimulation systems that can accelerate skill acquisition and boost learning and memory for the general population. Successful candidates will work alongside leading scientists and engineers across the US and Europe. This project will be a very collaborative and inter-disciplinary effort. We are specifically looking for individuals with expertise in one or more of the following topics: neural statistical modeling, high-density EEG decoding, pattern recognition applied to brain/body signals, machine learning with very limited training data, closed-loop transcranial stimulation, brain-machine interfaces, and computational neuroscience. One individual will be tasked with developing, implementing, and validating real-time pattern recognition algorithms for decoding high-density EEG signals to inform non-invasive stimulation for memory enhancement. The other individual will be responsible for developing, implementing, and validating statistical and computational models that can interpret natural as well as stimulation-modulated brain activity at multiple time points to predict future behavioral performance in realistic memory tasks. Knowledge of declarative and/or procedural memory systems and sleep consolidation is desired, but not strictly required. Individuals with a keen interest in translating basic neuroscience research into real-world applications are especially encouraged to apply. These are post-doctoral positions with an initial appointment for one year and renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance. The Information and Systems Sciences Laboratory conducts groundbreaking research in three thrust areas: Complex Networks, Cyber-Physical Resilience and Brain-Machine Intelligence. We create new and innovative capabilities for diverse applications such as cyber-security, unmanned autonomous systems, human performance augmentation, big data analytics, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. The goal of our research in Brain-Machine Intelligence is to understand how humans process information and effectively interact with the environment to develop smarter autonomous systems, enhance human performance, and develop novel processing systems. Our research starts with the development of large-scale, neurobiologically and behaviorally faithful brain region models. We apply these models along with real-time measurements of brain activity (EEG, fMRI, fNIRS) to create advanced brain-computer interfaces, human decision aids, and neurostimulation-based enhanced training systems. We also use our models to develop novel, brain-inspired sensor exploitation, machine learning, and control algorithms, and to develop low size, weight and power brain-based processing hardware for resilient autonomous systems, dexterous robots, and threat warning applications. HRL offers a competitive salary and benefits package, a small company atmosphere, and an ideal work location overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We also provide a collaborative technical culture committed to producing the leading R&D in the world. Interested candidates are requested to apply on line at HRL's website (http://www.hrl.com/careers/cars_jobs.html) Due to the large number of resumes that we receive from various sources, HRL has chosen to only accept employment inquiries submitted through our website. Please contact Dr. Praveen Pilly (pkpilly(a)hrl.com<mailto:pkpilly@hrl.com>) for any questions related to this job opportunity. Applications will be accepted and reviewed until the positions are filled. https://www4.recruitingcenter.net/Clients/HRL/PublicJobs/controller.cfm?jba… https://www4.recruitingcenter.net/Clients/HRL/PublicJobs/controller.cfm?jba… -- Praveen K. Pilly, Ph.D. Research Staff Member Center for Neural and Emergent Systems Information and Systems Sciences Laboratory HRL Laboratories Email: pkpilly(a)hrl.com<mailto:pkpilly@hrl.com> Tel: 310-317-5492

Oct. 9, 2015

Neuroscience Graduate Group at the University of Pennsylvania

by Joshua Gold

The Neuroscience Graduate Group (NGG) at the University of Pennsylvania is a collaborative and interdisciplinary PhD program that is currently accepting applications for matriculation in the fall of 2016. We are particularly interested in attracting exceptional applicants with backgrounds in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, and/or Psychology and are interested in the broadly defined field of Computational Neuroscience. We have a robust and interdisciplinary community of scholars in this field, including: Geoff Aguirre, Neurology Vijay Balasubramanian, Physics Danielle S Bassett, Bioengineering David H Brainard, Psychology Maja Bucan, Genetics Johannes Burge, Psychology Alice S Chen-Plotkin, Neurology Brian Chow, Bioengineering Yale E Cohen, Otorhinolaryngology Diego Contreras, Neuroscience Steven Eliades, Otorhinolaryngology Christopher M Fang-Yen, Bioengineering Maria Neimark Geffen, Otorhinolaryngology Joshua I Gold, Neuroscience Joseph W Kable, Psychology Michael J Kahana, Psychology Max Kelz, Anesthesiology Brian Litt, Neurology and Bioengineering Minghong Ma, Neuroscience Joel D Mainland, Neuroscience Nicole C Rust, Psychology Marc Schmidt, Biology Robert G Smith, Neuroscience Alan A Stocker, Psychology Sharon Thompson-Schill, Psychology Penn also has strong programs in Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology with faculty actively involved in machine learning, decision making, perception, and computational learning theory. NGG students are encouraged to pursue collaborations and interactions with these groups. Penn also is home to a newly established Computational Neuroscience Initiative (https://cni.upenn.edu <https://cni.upenn.edu/>), which oversees many of our academic and research programs related to computational neuroscience. The application deadline for the NGG is December 1, 2015. For more details please see our website: http://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/app_info.shtml <http://www.med.upenn.edu/ngg/app_info.shtml> ----- Joshua Gold Chair, Neuroscience Graduate Group Professor, Neuroscience University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA 19104-6074 office phone: 215-746-0028 e-mail: jigold(a)mail.med.upenn.edu <mailto:jigold@mail.med.upenn.edu> http://www.med.upenn.edu/goldlab <http://www.med.upenn.edu/goldlab>

Oct. 8, 2015

PhD position in computational neuroscience. 'Identification of Metastable Cortical Dynamics Underlying Cognitive Decisions'. Bournemouth University-IDIBAPS

by Emili Balaguer-Ballester

PhD position in computational neuroscience. 'Identification of Metastable Cortical Dynamics Underlying Cognitive Decisions'. Bournemouth University-IDIBAPS. A PhD position is available in 3-years fully-funded project "Identification of Metastable Cortical Dynamics Underlying Cognitive Decisions"; based at Bournemouth University (UK) and at the Biomedical Research Institute August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS, http://www.idibaps.org/en_index.htm, University of Barcelona, Spain). Do we have analysis tools for a reliable identification of the dynamical processes underlying decision-making? This is a fundamental question, touching the very basics of our understanding of neural computation and hence one of the most exciting topics in neuroscience. However, to reconstruct in detail neural dynamics generating cognitive decisions is a major challenge for current methodologies. This would be a highly significant advance; for instance the identification of stable dynamical patterns of activity in hippocampus deserved to win the last Nobel Prize. The aim of the project is to develop innovative approaches designed for the identification of metastable dynamics underlying cognitive decisions. We aim for the fusion of statistical learning approaches to pattern discovery with methods for identifying neural attractor dynamics and neurocomputational modelling. The novel approach will reconstruct neural dynamics during tasks specifically designed at Sanchez-Vives Lab in rodents and in human subjects at the Bournemouth EEG lab. The training possibilities that this interdisciplinary project offers are multiple and relevant in building-up a high-profile as a neuroscientist. The student will benefit from the vibrant scientific environment of neural computation and neurosciences at BU and at the cortical networks lab; embedded in the renowned systems neuroscience network in Barcelona. Applicants holding a degree in Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or similar disciplines are welcome. Interest or previous training in neuroscience and machine learning, as well master qualifications in these subjects, laboratory experience and a strong mathematical background would be very welcome. The researcher would be based at the Faculty of Science, Bournemouth University, and work with Dr Balaguer-Ballester at the Computational Neuroscience laboratory (http://dec.bournemouth.ac.uk/staff/ebb) and would spend prolonged periods of time in the Cortical Networks Lab (http://www.sanchez-vives.org/ IDIBAPS, Barcelona) led by Prof. Maria Victoria Sanchez-Vives; providing an outstanding opportunity to gain a diverse experience of both neuro-computational and experimental approaches. For more information and for applying please visit https://research.bournemouth.ac.uk/pgr/funded-phd-studentships-in-the-facul… For further details please do not hesitate to contact me: eb-ballester(a)bournemouth.ac.uk; twitter: @emilibalball . Kind regards Emili BU is a Disability Two Ticks Employer and has signed up to the Mindful Employer charter. Information about the accessibility of University buildings can be found on the BU DisabledGo webpages This email is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed and may contain confidential information. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender and delete this email, which must not be copied, distributed or disclosed to any other person. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Bournemouth University or its subsidiary companies. Nor can any contract be formed on behalf of the University or its subsidiary companies via email.

Oct. 8, 2015

Postdoctoral positions in theoretical biophysics at Emory University

by Nemenman, Ilya

Dear Colleagues, We’re happy to announce that the we are in the process of hiring multiple postdoctoral scientists for the newly-formed theoretical biophysics cluster at Emory University. If you could forward the attached ad to anyone who might be interested, or suggest suitable candidates, it would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Gordon Berman Ilya Nemenman Daniel Weissman ---------------------- Postdoctoral Positions: Theoretical Biological Physics at Emory University Applications are invited for multiple Postdoctoral Scientist positions in the new theoretical biophysics cluster at Emory University. The groups of Professors Gordon Berman, Ilya Nemenman, and Daniel Weissman constitute the core of the cluster, and additional members include groups within the Departments of Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Biomedical Engineering, amongst others across Emory. The cluster studies a wide range of questions at the interface of physics and biology, with particular focus on modeling and quantifying behavior, collective information processing in neural and cellular systems, and evolutionary dynamics. A successful applicant will have a PhD and a strong publication record in theoretical physics, quantitative biology, computational neuroscience, or a related field. We are particularly interested in candidates with a track record of scientific creativity and independent thinking. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. Please send your CV, a brief description of your research experience and interests, and a list of three references to q-bio-jobs(a)listserv.emory.edu. <mailto:q-bio-jobs@listserv.emory.edu> Emory University is one of the world’s leading research universities, with top-ranked programs in Population Biology Ecology and Evolution, Computational Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, and Biophysics. The outstanding School of Medicine and Rollins School of Public Health and the nearby Georgia Institute of Technology provide ample opportunities for collaborations. The hired postdoctoral scientists will benefit from unique resources available at Emory, such as the Center for Disease Control, located on Emory Campus, and the Yerkes Primate Research Center. Emory is located within a leafy neighborhood in the heart of Atlanta, a major cultural center and transportation hub, which offers high quality of life. Emory University is an AA/EEO employer. ________________________________ 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. 8, 2015

PhD opportunities in Computational Neuroscience

by Claudia Clopath

Computational Neuroscience Laboratory Headed by Dr. Claudia *Clopath* Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London -----------------Requirements:----------------- The Computational Neuroscience Laboratory, headed by Dr. Claudia Clopath, is looking for a talented PhD student, interested in working in the field of computational neuroscience, specifically addressing questions of *learning and memory*. The perfect candidate has a strong mathematical, physical or engineering background (or equivalent), and a keen interest in biological and neural systems. Demonstrated programming skills are a plus. -----------------Research topic:----------------- Learning and memory are among the most fascinating topic of neuroscience, yet our understanding of it is only at the beginning. Learning is thought to change the connections between the neurons in the brain, a process called *synaptic plasticity*. Using mathematical and computational tools, it is possible to model synaptic plasticity across different time scales, which helps understand how different types of memory are formed. The PhD candidate will be working to build those models of synaptic plasticity, and study the functional role of synaptic plasticity in artificial neural networks. They will have the opportunity to collaborate with experimental laboratories, which study connectivity changes and behavioural learning. Candidates should be EU nationals. ----------------- The lab:----------------- The Computational Neuroscience Laboratory is very young and dynamic, and publishes in prestigious journals, such as Nature and Science. It is part of the Department of Bioengineering, which conducts state-of-the-art multidisciplinary research in biomechanics, neuroscience and neurotechnology. The lab is at *Imperial College London*, the 3rd ranked university in Europe, is in the top 10 worldwide, and is located in the city centre of London. More information can be found at: http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/c.clopath/lab/index.html <http://www.bg.ic.ac.uk/research/c.clopath/> ----------------- How to apply:----------------- Candidates should send a single pdf file, consisting of a 1-page motivation letter, CV (mentioning that they are EU nationals) to clopathlab.imperial(a)gmail.com, with the subject containing 'PHD2016'. In addition, candidates should organize two letters of references to be sent to clopathlab.imperial(a)gmail.com. The application *deadline is **Oct 25th* (both for the application as well as for the two letters of references). Skype Interviews will be held on the Oct 29th. ----------------- Funding:----------------- The candidate will apply to an Imperial College PhD scholarship. Deadline for funding application is on Nov 12. More information can be found at: <http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/researchstrategy/funding/phdscholarships> <http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/studentfinance/prospectivepgstudents/phdscholars…> http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/studentfinance/prospectivepgstudents/phdscholars…

Oct. 7, 2015

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY

by Wilson Truccolo

POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY: Applications for NIH-funded post-doctoral positions are invited for the Laboratory of Dr. Wilson Truccolo in the Department of Neuroscience at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. The positions are for the development of data-driven stochastic and biophysical models of multiscale neural dynamics in human epilepsy. Data consist of simultaneous intracortical microelectrode array recordings of ensembles of single neurons and local field potentials, as well as ECoGs, during seizure and non-seizure states in individuals with intractable epilepsy. The project involves a collaboration between the labs of Dr. Truccolo and Dr. Sydney Cash (Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience and modeling of stochastic neural dynamics. Related recent publications can be found on the Truccolo lab website ( http://www.truccololab.com/ <http://dl.dropbox.com/u/983891/Truccolo_home.htm>). Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Truccolo (wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu) Applications including a CV, statement of research interests, and the names and full contact details of three referees should be sent to wilson_truccolo(a)brown.edu. -- Wilson Truccolo, Ph.D. Pablo J. Salame '88 Goldman Sachs Assistant Professor of Computational Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience & Institute for Brain Science, Brown University Lab website: http://www.truccololab.com/

Oct. 7, 2015

PhD Position in Deep Learning & Visual Neuroscience

by Paul Zhutovsky

Hi there, we at EyeQuant, a visual neuroscience / machine learning startup based in Berlin have teamed up with a Marie Curie training network to offer a fully salaried PhD candidate position at the rapidly advancing intersection of Deep Learning, Computer Vision and Visual Neuroscience, starting as soon as possible. This is a really unique opportunity to obtain a PhD through a prestigious programme while working with and at a successful technology software startup, enabling you to simultaneously advance your career prospects both inside and outside of academia. Your supervisor and PI will be neuroscientist and EyeQuant co-founder Prof. Dr. Peter König, who is the Director of the Institute of Cognitive Science and Head of the Neurobiopsychology Lab at the University of Osnabrück, Germany. You will be based in EyeQuant’s Berlin HQ, with regular trips to our Lab in Osnabrück. You can find more details and next steps here: http://www.eyequant.com/#!/jobs#phd-candidate-research-engineer Please note that in order to be eligible for the MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE grant, you must not have carried out your main research activity for more than 12 months in Germany in the previous 36 months.

Oct. 7, 2015

Tenure Track Faculty Position in Theoretical Condensed Matter and Biological Physics

by Stepanyants, Armen

The Department of Physics at Northeastern University invites applications for an Assistant or Associate Professor level tenure track position in theoretical condensed matter and biological physics to begin Fall 2016. This is a broad search covering all forefront areas of theoretical and computational condensed matter and biological physics. Candidates are expected to teach effectively both undergraduate and graduate physics courses, and establish an independent externally funded research program. The successful applicant is expected to have a PhD in Physics, although closely related areas will also be considered. Northeastern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Educational Institution and Employer, Title IX University, and an E-Verify Employer. Applications from minorities, women and persons with disabilities are particularly welcome. Application materials submitted online at https://neu.peopleadmin.com/postings/38431 should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research and teaching statements, and names and e-mail addresses of four references. The deadline for receipt of all application materials, including the reference letters, is January 15, 2016. The position will, however, remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.

Oct. 6, 2015

COSYNE 2016: Abstract submission is open, Workshop proposal deadline on Oct 31

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2016 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING Feb 25 - Feb 28, 2016 Salt Lake City, Utah WORKSHOPS Feb 29 - Mar 01, 2016 Snowbird Ski Resort, Utah www.cosyne.org ==================================================== IMPORTANT DATES Abstract submission is now open! Abstract submission deadline: 13 November 2015 Workshop proposal deadline: 31 October 2015 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. MAIN MEETING The main meeting is single-track. A set of invited talks are selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. 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. 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. WORKSHOPS The workshops feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. 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 www.cosyne.org) 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. CONFIRMED SPEAKERS: Blaise Aguera y Arcas (Google) Marisa Carrasco (NYU) Edward Chang (UCSF) Greg DeAngelis (Rochester) Mark Goldman (UC Davis) Sonja Hofer (Basel) Richard Mooney (Duke) Mala Murthy (Princeton) Peggy Series (Edinburgh) Reza Shadmehr (Johns Hopkins) Paul Smolensky (Johns Hopkins) Leslie Vosshall (Rockefeller) Xiao-Jing Wang (NYU) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: General Chairs: Maria Geffen (U Penn) and Konrad Körding (Northwestern) Program Chairs: Megan Carey (Champalimaud) and Emilio Salinas (Wake Forest) Workshop Chairs: Claudia Clopath (Imperial College) and Alfonso Renart (Champalimaud) Publicity Chair: Xaq Pitkow (Rice) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Anne Churchland (CSHL) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT cosyne.meeting [at] gmail.com

Oct. 6, 2015

Postdoctoral Position in Robust Intelligence / Theoretical Neuroscience

by Stepanyants, Armen

The Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Complex Systems and the Department of Physics at Northeastern University, Boston, invite applicants for a postdoctoral position in Robust Intelligence / Theoretical Neuroscience to begin in the fall of 2015. The successful candidate will work on an AIR FORCE sponsored project to create a theoretical framework for the analysis of the effects of learning and robust memory storage on synaptic connectivity in local cortical networks. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in computational neuroscience, physics, mathematics, or related quantitative disciplines. Track record of experience in computational neuroscience, as well as excellent theoretical and computational skills are required. Knowledge of machine learning, replica/cavity theory from statistical physics, cortical neuroanatomy and connectivity is preferred. To apply, please send (1) a CV, including a list of publications, (2) a summary of prior research accomplishments, and (3) names and contact information of three reference providers by email to Prof. Armen Stepanyants, a.stepanyants(a)neu.edu<mailto:a.stepanyants@neu.edu>. The position is available immediately, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal on a yearly basis. Northeastern is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Title IX Employer. More information can be found at the Neurogeometry Lab website, www.neurogeometry.net<http://www.neurogeometry.net>. Armen Stepanyants Associate Professor Department of Physics and Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Complex Systems Northeastern University 110 Forsyth St., Boston, MA 02115 Phone: (617) 373-2944 Fax: (617) 373-2943 http://www.neurogeometry.net/

Oct. 5, 2015

PhD position in Zurich

by Jean-Pascal Pfister

Applications are invited for one PhD student position at the University of Zurich. The position is funded by a SystemsX grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project is entitled "Baysian learning of quantal parameters at single synapse resolution", and involves both experimentation and theory. Most models of synaptic transmission assume that all synapses between two neurons are identical. However, there is experimental evidence for significant heterogeneity in synaptic transmission between synapses. The major goal of this project is the development of an approach that allows for quantification of functional synaptic parameters incorporating single synapse heterogeneity. Half of the project will be devoted to experiments (electrophysiological and optophysiological investigation of synaptic transmission at Drosophila synapses), while the second part will involve modeling (Bayesian learning). The PhD student will be co-supervised by Prof. Martin Müller (Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich) and by Prof. Jean-Pascal Pfister (Institute of Neuroinformatics, ETH and University of Zurich). Both institutes offer ideal environments for performing theory-driven experiments due to the presence of many theoretical and experimental labs. The candidate should hold a Master degree/Diplom in Physics, Biology, Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience or a related field. She/he should have prior experience in an experimental lab, a very strong mathematical background, and good programming skills. The applicant should submit a CV, a statement of research interests, marks obtained for the Master/Diploma, and the abstract of the Master/Diploma thesis in electronic format to Jean-Pascal Pfister (jpfister(a)ini.uzh.ch <mailto:jpfister@ini.uzh.ch>) or Martin Müller (Martin.Mueller(a)imls.uzh.ch <mailto:Martin.Mueller@imls.uzh.ch>). In addition, two referees should directly send a letter of recommendation by email. The position is offered for a period of three years, starting on the 1st of January 2016. Salary scale is provided by the Swiss National Science Foundation (www.snf.ch <http://www.snf.ch/>). Deadline for application is the 30th of October 2015 or until the position is filled. +++ Martin Mueller SNSF Assistant Professor Institute of Molecular Life Sciences University of Zurich Y55-K78 Winterthurerstrasse 190 8057 Zurich Switzerland www.imls.uzh.ch/mueller.html <http://www.imls.uzh.ch/mueller.html> www.neuroscience.ethz.ch/research/molecular_cellular/mueller <http://www.neuroscience.ethz.ch/research/molecular_cellular/mueller> +++ Jean-Pascal Pfister SNSF Assistant Professor Theoretical Neuroscience Group Institute of Neuroinformatics University of Zurich and ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 8057 Zurich, Switzerland www.ini.uzh.ch/~jpfister <http://www.ini.uzh.ch/~jpfister> www.neuroscience.ethz.ch/research/computation_modeling/pfister <http://www.neuroscience.ethz.ch/research/computation_modeling/pfister>

Oct. 5, 2015

NIPS Workshop on Modelling and Inference for Dynamics on Complex Interaction Networks

by Yasser Roudi

We invite contributions to the workshop on Modelling and Inference for Dynamics on Complex Interaction Networks Friday 11 December 2015 Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Montréal, Canada Submissions of both contributed talks and posters are welcome. Please email an abstract of up to 1 page (PDF preferred) to peter....(a)kcl.ac.uk <> by 30 October 2015 and indicate your preference for talk or poster. We will get back to you with decisions on acceptance of submissions by mid-November. Further information on the workshop theme, invited speakers etc can be found below or at http://www.netadis.eu/ <http://www.netadis.eu/> (go to "NIPS 2015" tab). Please distribute to any researchers that might be interested in participating. Many thanks, Manfred Opper, Yasser Roudi and Peter Sollich --------------------------------------------- INVITED SPEAKERS and indicative topics • Jose Bento Ayres Pereira, Boston College – learning networks of stochastic differential equations • Mathias Bethge, MPI Tübingen – dynamics of generalized linear models • Alfredo Braunstein, Polictecnico di Torino – inference problems for irreversible stochastic epidemic models • Ramon Grima, University of Edinburgh – approximate solutions of Fokker-Planck equations, Feynman system size expansion • Andrea Montanari, Stanford – to be confirmed • Federico Ricci-Tersenghi, “La Sapienza” University, Roma – cross-correlations to infer delay structure then interactions • Graham Taylor, University of Guelph – deep learning in dynamical networks ORGANIZERS Prof Manfred Opper (Technische Universitaet Berlin, Germany), Prof Yasser Roudi (NTNU, Trondheim, Norway), Prof Peter Sollich (King’s College London, UK) CONTACT Prof Peter Sollich: peter....(a)kcl.ac.uk <> ABSTRACT Inference and learning on large graphical models, i.e. large systems of simple probabilistic units linked by a complex network of interactions, is a classical topic in machine learning. Such systems are also an active research topic in the field of statistical physics. The main interaction between statistical physics and machine has so far been in the area of analysing data sets without explicit temporal structure. Here methods of equilibrium statistical physics, developed for studying Boltzmann distributions on networks of nodes with e.g. pairwise interactions, are closely related to graphical model inference techniques; accordingly there has been much cross-fertilization leading to both conceptual insights and more efficient algorithms. Models can be learned from recorded experimental or other empirical data, but even when samples come from e.g. a time series this aspect of the data is typically ignored. More recently, interest has shifted towards dynamical models. This shift has occurred for two main reasons: * Most of the interesting systems for which statistical analysis techniques are required, e.g. networks of biological neurons, gene regulatory networks, protein-protein interaction networks, stock markets, exhibit very rich temporal or spatiotemporal dynamics; if this is ignored by focusing on stationary distributions alone this can lead to the loss of a significant amount of interesting information and possibly even qualitatively wrong conclusions. * Current technological breakthroughs in collecting data from the complex systems referred to above are yielding ever increasing temporal resolution. This in turn allows in depth analyses of the fundamental temporal aspects of the function of the system, if combined with strong theoretical methods. It is widely accepted that these dynamical aspects are crucial for understanding the function of biological and financial systems, warranting the development of techniques for studying them. In the past, the fields of machine learning and statistical physics have cross-fertilised each other significantly. E.g. the establishment of the relation between loopy belief propagation, message passing algorithms and the Bethe free energy formulation has stimulated a large amount of research in approximation techniques for inference and the corresponding equilibrium analysis of disordered systems in statistical physics. It is the goal of the proposed workshop to bring together researchers from the fields of machine learning and statistical physics in order to discuss the new challenges originating from dynamical data. Such data are modelled using a variety of approaches such as dynamic belief networks, continuous time analogues of these – as often used for disordered spin systems in statistical physics –, coupled stochastic differential equations for continuous random variables etc. The workshop will provide a forum for exploring possible synergies between the inference and learning approaches developed for the various models. The experience from joint advances in the equilibrium domain suggests that there is much unexplored scope for progress on dynamical data. Possible topics to be addressed will be: Inference on state dynamics: – efficient approximation of dynamics on a given network, filtering, smoothing – inference with hidden nodes – existing methods including dynamical belief propagation & expectation propagation, variational approximations, mean-field and Plefka approximations; relations between these, advantages, drawbacks – alternative approaches Learning model/network parameters: – with/without hidden nodes Learning network structure: – going beyond correlation information

Oct. 5, 2015

PhD positions in Marie-Curie European Training Network (Synaptic Dysfunction in Alzheimer Disease)

by Tomas Hromadka

A Marie Sklodowska Curie Actions sponsored European Training Network in Synaptic Dysfunction in Alzheimer Disease (SyDAD) is seeking 15 PhD students. ============ www.sydad.eu ============ RESEARCH SCHOOL SyDAD is an interdisciplinary PhD programme including an innovative research programme with cutting edge methodology, an excellent training programme, international exchanges and a translational and collaborative orientation. AIMS 1. To foster a new generation of researchers with an innovative mind-set and full understanding of the requirements of academia, pharmaceutical companies, the clinics and the societal challenges. 2. To, through a collaborative research programme, elucidate how the different pathways underlying synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer Disease (AD) relate to each other, to identify novel pharmaceutical targets and to elaborate a drug discovery platform. THE DOCTORAL EDUCATION PROJECTS AND THE DUTIES OF THE STUDENT The doctoral students will use biochemical, cell biological, electrophysiological and in vivo methods as well as clinical material. The network has access to a wide repertoire of cutting-edge methodology including super-resolution microscopy, mass spectrometry, in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics. The doctoral students will be seconded to other sites of the network during shorter periods to best utilize the resources of the network and participate in a common training programme at the different sites of the network. PROJECTS For more information about the projects, please see the SyDAD web site www.sydad.eu Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ESR 10: Targeting Cholesterol homeostasis and synaptic maturation. Contact: angel.cedazo-minguez(a)ki.se ESR 11: Synaptic proteome and Aβ interactome in AD brain and mouse models. Contact: susanne.frykman(a)ki.se ESR 13: EEG as a functional central biomarker in AD. Contact: vesna.jelic(a)ki.se ESR 14: Mitochondria stabilisers and synaptic function in AD. Contact: maria.ankarcrona(a)ki.se Apply to the projects at Karolinska Institutet at http://ki.se/en/about/jobs-at-karolinska-institutet University of Bordeaux, France ESR 2: Role of APP in presynaptic mechanisms. Contact: gael.barthet(a)u-bordeaux.fr ESR 7: Mitochondrial dysfunction in relation to synaptic function in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease. Contact: Sandrine Pouvreau sandrine.pouvreau(a)u-bordeaux.fr ESR 12: Plasticity of local hippocampal circuits in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease: relation with episodic memory encoding. Contact: christophe.mulle(a)u-bordeaux.fr Apply to the projects at University of Bordeaux by e-mail: christophe.mulle(a)u-bordeaux.fr University of Milano, Italy ESR 1: Linking actin-dependent dendritic spine remodelling and ADAM10 activity in AD: the role of CAP2. Contact: monica.diluca(a)unimi.it ESR 9: A spine to nucleus signalling pathway in Alzheimer's disease. Contact: fabrizio.gardoni(a)unimi.it ESR 15: Development of cell permeable peptides capable of increasing ADAM10 activity. Contact: monica.diluca(a)unimi.it Apply to the projects at University of Milano by e-mail: monica.diluca(a)unimi.it and fabrizio.gardoni(a)unimi.it Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Bonn, Germany ESR 3: Cascade linking Aß and tau-dependent toxicity to synapse loss. Contact: Mandelkow(a)dzne.de ESR 4: Loss-of-function genetic screening using CRISPR/Cas9. Contact: Daniele.Bano(a)dzne.de ESR 8. Synaptic plasticity and calcium remodelling. Contact: office-nicotera(a)dzne.de Apply to the projects at DZNE by e-mail: application(a)dzne.de Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Beerse, Belgium ESR 6: The roles of physiological and pathophysiological tau in synapse function and morphology. Contact: jpitaalm(a)ITS.JNJ.com Apply for the Janssen position here: http://jobs.jnj.com/s/u3z0MT Axon Neuroscience, Bratislava, Slovakia ESR 5: Rescue of truncated Tau-mediated synaptic dysfunction in vivo. Contact: novak(a)axon-neuroscience.eu For further information on the application process at Axon Neuroscience, please contact novak(a)axon-neuroscience.eu ENTRY REQUIREMENTS The entry requirements for each participating university will apply. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS OF MARIE SKLODOWSKA-CURIE ACTIONS The applicant should be a postgraduate researcher in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research activity, including the period of research training, who has not been awarded a doctoral degree. NOTE! Mobility rule: The researcher must not have resided or carried out his/her main activity (work, studies, etc) in the country of his/her host organisation for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to his/her recruitment. SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALITIES - The applicants should have a genuine interest and solid education in Neuroscience at a master level or equivalent. - The applicants should have excellent practical skills in performing laboratory work. For specific requirements for the different projects, please contact the respective supervisor. - The applicants should have substantial experience in performing independent research projects, e g a Master thesis project - The applicants should have good collaborative skills and be open-minded. - The applicants should show good proficiency in written and spoken English equivalent to TOEFL or IELTS. APPLICATION PROCESS An application must contain the following documents in English: - A personal letter and curriculum vitae including references - A list of potential other project(s) within the SyDAD network the applicant applies for in prioritised order. - A copy of degree certificates and associated certificates. DEADLINE OF APPLICATION October 25th 2015

Oct. 2, 2015

Open-rank Tenure-track Position in (Computational) Neuroscience

by Erik De Schutter

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology [OIST] Graduate University (http://www.oist.jp <http://www.oist.jp/>) invites applications for a faculty position in neuroscience. OIST emphasizes interdisciplinary research and teaching. Current faculty covers multiple disciplines in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics; including a strong presence in experimental and theoretical neuroscience. Appointments can be made as Assistant Professor (tenure track), Associate Professor (tenured) or Professor (tenured). This is part of a plan to hire 50 new faculty members by 2023. We seek applicants with outstanding scholarship, creativity, and interdisciplinary interests. Further information and details of the application procedure may be accessed at https://groups.oist.jp/facultypositions <https://groups.oist.jp/facultypositions> Inquiries should be directed to Professor Ken Peach, Dean of Faculty Affairs, faculty-recruiting(a)oist.jp <mailto:faculty-recruiting@oist.jp> Applications should be made online before 15th November 2015. OIST is a new, English-language graduate university offering a world-class research environment and has an international research community with faculty, students and staff from over 50 countries. Faculty receives research budgets and has access to top of the line equipment. The campus is located on a beautiful, subtropical island in Okinawa, Japan. OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity educator and employer committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff by having proactive policies in place. We provide a family-friendly working environment, including a bilingual child development center on campus. Applications from women and other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged. See https:// <https://groups.oist.jp/ged>groups.oist.jp/ged <https://groups.oist.jp/ged>.

Oct. 1, 2015

Up to five (5) tenure-track faculty positions in Brain and Cognitive Sciences @ MIT

by Kate White

The Department of Brain & Cognitive Sciences (BCS) (http://bcs.mit.edu) at MIT is looking to hire up to five (5) tenure-track faculty at the assistant professor level. Affiliations with the Picower Institute for Learning & Memory and the McGovern Institute for Brain Research are possible. We are most excited about candidates who work in one or more of the following four (4) areas: i. Computational and theoretical approaches to neuroscience and cognition. Possible areas of focus include but are not limited to: statistics and data science, neural circuits, neural population representations and transformations, and cognitive processes. Candidates with the ability to build bridges across empirical domains are especially attractive. An affiliation with Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS), or other allied departments is possible. ii. Systems neuroscience in non-human animals. The ideal candidate would be driven by computational questions and ideas from human cognition, with the goal of reverse-engineering the underlying neural representations and processes using tools that allow access to multiple brain regions. iii. Cognitive neuroscience in humans, especially if the candidate's work bridges levels of analysis using a variety of methods including MRI, MEG, fMRI, theoretical modeling, genetics and reverse engineering approaches. iv. Human cognition using behavioral methods, especially in the areas of language and/or cognitive development. Successful applicants are expected to develop and lead independent, internationally competitive research programs and to share in our commitment to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education by teaching courses and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. PhD must be completed by start day of employment and some postdoctoral training is preferred. Please submit application materials - cover letter, CV, statement of research and teaching interests and representative reprints - online at http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/5972. Please state research area in cover letter. To help direct the application, applicants should indicate which of the four areas listed above is their main research area by answering the mandatory questions included in the application. In addition, please arrange to have three letters of recommendation submitted online. All application materials are due by midnight (EST) on October 31, 2015. MIT is an affirmative action employer, and we encourage applications from women and underrepresented minorities. Best regards, Kate White Human Resources Administrator MIT - Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (BCS) 77 Massachusetts Ave., Bldg 46-2005A Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: 617-253-5749 E-mail: kowhite(a)mit.edu<mailto:kowhite@mit.edu>

Sept. 30, 2015

Research Fellow Position in Mathematical Modelling and Feedback Control of Neural Systems

by David Grayden

Research Fellow Position in Mathematical Modelling and Feedback Control of Neural Systems Research Fellow Grade 2 (Level B) NeuroEngineering Laboratory, Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering The University of Melbourne Australia We seek a highly motivated person with expertise in neuroengineering, neural modelling, and control theory. The primary aim of this project is to devise and validate mathematical models of neural circuits and to developed closed-loop control algorithms for those circuits. In particular, the project will use experimental observations to derive and test transfer functions of afferent and efferent nerve activity for closed- loop control of inflammatory bowel disease. The mathematical modelling objective will run alongside physiological experiments to derive the transfer functions that constitute the most important aspects of the system. The research fellow will contribute to all aspects of the project, including the development of the transfer functions and the development of closed-loop control algorithms. This will involve working with physiologists to obtain the necessary neural and network parameters, constructing neuron models that match biological data, developing the control models and analysing their behaviour and parameter dependence, and implementing the algorithms to assess their effect. The person may also co-supervise PhD, MPhil and Master of Engineering students. The position is available for two years, renewable for a further two years depending on funding availability. More information and applications here: http://jobs.unimelb.edu.au/caw/en/job/886547/research-fellow Close date: 13 Oct 2015 Regards, David Professor David B. Grayden Director, Biomedical Engineering Dept of Electrical & Electronic Engineering Melbourne School of Engineering The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010 Australia [cid:image001.jpg@01D0FB55.848428B0] This email and any attachments may contain personal information or information that is otherwise confidential or the subject of copyright. Any use, disclosure or copying of any part of it is prohibited. The University does not warrant that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or defects. Please check any attachments for viruses and defects before opening them. If this email is received in error please delete it and notify us by return email.

Sept. 29, 2015

2nd CFP Advanced Research on Biologically Inspired Cognitive Architecture

by Prof. Dr. Jordi Vallverdú

*2nd Call for papers:* *"Advanced Research on Biologically Inspired Cognitive Architecture"(http://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/1900 <http://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/1900>). To be relased in July 2016, by IGI Global. * *Deadline: January 2016.* *Anthropic Oriented Computing (AOC) lies at the intersection among sociology, neuroscience, philosophy, anthropology, psychology, and computer science. We want to establish a new domain of the Anthropic-centric oriented computing merging and attract attention of wide audience for the inter/cross/trans- disciplinary areas and approaches such as field of a: philosophy, sociology, psychology, anthropology, neurophysiology and computer science. This way we aim at initiating the discussion on the Anthropo-centric -oriented computing with several specialists from different domains of the cognitive and social sciences. To gain broader view on the problems and tackled from different angles of perspective on Artificial Consciousness, and AGI and group/crowd dynamics.* *Recommended topics include, but are not limited to:* · *Affective cognitive architectures* · *Emotional computer interface* · *Situated and embodied cognition* · *Crowdcasting, Crowdsourcing, Crowdsensing* · *Swarm cognition (swarm intelligence + distributed cognition = swarm cognition)* · *Neuro-biologically inspired systems for AI* · *Philosophical aspects of Artificial consciousness* · *Computational Psychological aspects of Affective computation* · *Computational Neuroscientific aspects of Affective computation* · *Decision making and Artificial Consciousness* · *Volunteer computing* · *Social computing* · *Collective intelligence* · *Crowd agents* · *Agent crowdmap* · *Theory-based inference* · *Logic and graphical models* · *Causal reasoning and counterfactuals* · *Foundational and technical questions in bridging logical and probabilistic models* *Inquiries: Jordi Vallverdú, jordi.vallverdu(a)uab.cat <jordi.vallverdu(a)uab.cat> * Prof. Dr. Jordi Vallverdú, B. Phil, B. Mus, M.Sci, Ph.D. Room B7/104, Philosophy Dept. UAB 08193 Bellaterra (BCN) CATALONIA ------------------- FULL CV/Publications: https://uab.academia.edu/JordiVallverdu <https://uab.academia.edu/JordiVallverd%C3%BA> ORCID: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9975-7780 ResearcherID: http://www.researcherid.com/rid/K-5536-2014 Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jordi_Vallverdu

Sept. 29, 2015

Post-doctoral position in cognitive neuroscience of learning

by Christopher Honey

A joint postdoctoral position is available in the labs of Amy Finn, Katherine Duncan, and Christopher Honey in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto. We are seeking a colleague who is interested in understanding how the human brain learns new sequential structure and how this changes with development. This unique collaboration will use computational modeling and neuroimaging to characterize the roles that subcortical learning and memory systems play in the development of statistical learning. The ideal candidate will have experience in cognitive neuroscience, strong quantitative training and an interest in systems of learning and memory as well as their development. The University of Toronto, typically ranked as one of the world's top 20 research universities, is located in downtown Toronto. The city is one of the most liveable and cosmopolitan cities in the world, and has a vibrant academic and biomedical community. This full-time position with benefits is fully funded for two years with an initial appointment of one year. There is also the possibility of extending the position beyond the first two funded years by applying for outside fellowships, such as the Canadian Institute of Health Research Fellowships, which are open to international trainees. The start date is flexible. Applicants should submit a CV, brief research statement, relevant publications, and contact details for two academic references to the addresses below. Please see the posting on the Psychology Department website ( http://home.psych.utoronto.ca/Assets/Psych+Digital+Assets/Psychology/Psych+… Employment+Opportunities/pdf.pdf), and contact any address below for more information. Contact Details Amy Finn: finn(a)psych.utoronto.ca, finnlandlab.org Katherine Duncan: duncan(a)psych.utoronto.ca , duncanlab.org Christopher Honey: honey(a)psych.utoronto.ca , honeylab.org

Sept. 29, 2015

Tenure Track Faculty Position in Biological Physics

by Ralf Haefner

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Rochester invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Biological Physics. Applicants in both theoretical and experimental areas will be considered. Applicants should have a Ph.D., an outstanding record of research, and a commitment to excellence in teaching at both the undergraduate and the graduate level. The position is anticipated to be at the Assistant Professor level, however applicants at a more senior level will also be considered. We are especially interested in candidates whose research interests might leverage the University's recent strategic initiative in Interdisciplinary Data Science. However strong applications in any area of biological physics are encouraged. Each candidate should submit a letter of application, a curriculum vita including a list of publications, and a description of research and teaching plans. The candidate should arrange for four letters of recommendation to be sent in support of their application. Further instructions for applying to this search may be found at: https://www.rochester.edu/faculty-recruiting <https://www.rochester.edu/faculty-recruiting> To receive the fullest consideration, applicants are encouraged to apply by November 15. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. The University of Rochester has a strong commitment to diversity and actively encourages applications from candidates from groups underrepresented in higher education. The University of Rochester is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applicants from members of minority groups and women. All applications are considered without regard to race, sex, religious or national origin. Salary will be competitive. EOE Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled

Sept. 29, 2015

Multiple postdocs and RA positions in artificial consciousness based upon the integrated information theory

by Ryota Kanai

Advertisement: 4 Postdoctoral and/or RA positions at Araya Brain Imaging, Tokyo, Japan. Four postdoctoral positions (or RA positions) are available to work on a JST (Japan Science and Technology) funded CREST research project on “Towards constructing artificial consciousness based on the integrated information theory (IIT)” (PIs: Kanai, Kawanabe and Maekawa, Co-PIs: Tsuchiya and Oizumi), which will run for 5.5 years from Oct 2015. The initial appointment will be for one year, with renewal based upon satisfactory performance and evaluation. Salary will be commensurate with experience. We are looking for young researchers (i.e., RAs, late-stage candidates for MSc or PhD degrees, or postdoctoral fellows) whose main research interest is the neuronal basis of consciousness, artificial intelligence, and/or the integrated information theory (IIT) of consciousness. There are 4 main projects: 1. Evolving artificial intelligent systems in complex game environments 2. Constructing systems with flexible sensory, cognitive and motor capability using deep neural networks (DNN) 3. Evaluation of integrated information in artificial systems 4. Empirical tests of IIT in real neural systems You will be employed at Araya Brain Imaging (CEO: Kanai) in Japan for all projects, but the actual location of work depends on the project. Projects 1 and 2 will mainly take place within Araya Brain Imaging in Tokyo, Japan, whereas Projects 3 and 4 will be conducted at Monash University, Australia. All projects will be supervised by Ryota Kanai (Araya), Naotsugu Tsuchiya (Monash) and Masafumi Oizumi (Monash and RIKEN, Japan). Researchers in all projects are expected to travel between Japan and Australia frequently (at least twice a year) to maximise interactions within the team. For each project, the exact requirement for experience and skills differ, but excellent programming and mathematical skills (especially familiarity in advanced statistics, machine learning and information theory) will be essential in all projects. Research Assistants are expected to learn those skills upon appointment. Excellence in written and oral English communication skills, as supported by objective publication recorded, is essential for postdoctoral applicants. Most importantly the enthusiasm to solve consciousness is mandatory. Araya Brain Imaging is a rapidly growing start-up located in Tokyo. While being a private company, our priority is the quality in research that drives innovation in neurotechnology. Many of the Araya members have been trained abroad (UK and US) and we are aiming to build an international hub for artificial consciousness. www.araya.org/eng Monash University, one of the eight top universities in Australia (G8), is forming a strong cluster of consciousness researchers, ranging from philosophers, neurophysiologists, and psychologists with excellent cognitive neuroscience tools available (simultaneous EEG & fMRI experiments and EEG/TMS & fMRI experiments at Monash Brain Imaging facility, which hosts a research-only MRI scanner, EEG, TMS and eye tracking. http://mbi.monash.edu.au/) Interested candidates are encouraged to send a CV, statement of research accomplishments and interests, PDF copies of representative publications, and contact information for 2 reference letters to: Please contact Yoshiko Tan (postdoc(a)araya.org) for questions and application. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Best wishes, Ryota Kanai CEO of Araya Brain Imaging

Sept. 28, 2015

10th European Conference on Mathematical and Theoretical Biology

by Stephen Coombes

========== ECMTB/SMB 2016 - www.ecmtb2016.org<http://www.ecmtb2016.org> ========== ========== Call for Minisymposium proposals - deadline, 18 Dec 2015 ========== 10th European Conference on Mathematical and Theoretical Biology The joint meeting of the European Society for Mathematical and Theoretical Biology (ESMTB) and the annual meeting of the Society for Mathematical Biology (SMB) will be held in Nottingham, 11-15 July 2016. We now invite proposals for minisymposia at the interface of mathematics and biology, including all areas of the life and medical sciences. Minisymposia will be held in two-hour blocks, consisting of 4 talks of 30 minutes each (including time for questions and changing speakers). Please fill in the form at www.ecmtb2016.org/submissions/<http://www.ecmtb2016.org/submissions/> to submit your minisymposium proposal. Following submission, the minisymposium proposer will receive a unique link which they should forward to each speaker, in order to register and submit their individual abstracts. Minisymposium proposers are encouraged to consider geographical and gender diversity when selecting speakers. Submission of abstracts for contributed talks and posters will open in due course, with a deadline of 14 Feb 2016. Please note: The first submission associated with your email address will create a user account, and a password will be emailed to that email address. Each registered user may make a maximum of two submissions to ECMTB 2016 (one as a minisymposium organiser; one for a minisymposium talk, contributed talk or poster). =========== Confirmed plenary speakers include: ============ Ruth Baker (University of Oxford, UK) Sander van Doorn (University of Groningen, Netherlands) Julia Gog (University of Cambridge, UK) Leah Keshet (University of British Columbia, Canada) Johan van de Koppel (Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research) Hisashi Ohtsuki (Kanagawa, Japan) Johan Paulsson (Harvard University, USA) and John Rinzel (NYU, USA) - SMB Winfree Prize lecture ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== best wishes, Markus Owen (Chair of the Local Organising Committee, ECMTB/SMB 2016) Local Organising Committee: Markus Owen, Daniele Avitabile, Leah Band, Bindi Brook, Stephen Coombes, Etienne Farcot, John King, Reuben O'Dea, Ruediger Thul, Jonathan Wattis Scientific Committee: Linda Allen, Ellen Baake, Jim Cushing, Andreas Deutsch, Odo Diekmann, Susanne Ditlevsen, Stephen Eglen, Amina Eladdadi, Yoh Iwasa, Eva Kisdi, Santiago Schnell, Artie Sherman, Jonathan Sherratt, Vitaly Volpert This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please send it back to me, and immediately delete it. Please do not use, copy or disclose the information contained in this message or in any attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. This message has been checked for viruses but the contents of an attachment may still contain software viruses which could damage your computer system, you are advised to perform your own checks. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored as permitted by UK legislation.

Sept. 28, 2015

4th Winter Q-Bio Mtg in HAWAII Feb. 2016 ***Abstract submission deadline NOV. 10, 2015***

by Santamaria, Cookie

THE FOURTH ANNUAL WINTER Q-BIO MEETING Quantitative Biology on the Hawaiian Islands February 15-18, 2016 http://w-qbio.org/ The Winter q-bio meeting brings together scientists and engineers who are interested in all areas of q-bio. Technology is driving revolutionary changes in biology. Systems Biology has arisen as the deduction of interaction networks from -omics data generated in the wake of remarkable technological achievements. Likewise, DNA synthesis technologies are driving the development of Synthetic Biology, whereby engineered circuitry and even entire genomes can be reconstituted from chemical building blocks. These two emerging areas have catalyzed the growth of Quantitative Biology, whereby the central goal is the deduction of quantitative principles that can be used to construct predictive models for biological phenomena. The venue for 2016 is the Sheraton Waikiki<http://www.sheraton-waikiki.com/>, which is located in Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. The resort is known for its breathtaking oceanfront views, a first-of-its-kind recently opened "Superpool" and many award-winning dining venues. This year we will select contributed talks from the submitted abstracts to be presented with the invited talks during the plenary sessions. Contributed talks will also be selected for parallel breakout sessions that commence in the late afternoon. 2016 CONFIRMED SPEAKERS: Nathalie Balaban — Hebrew University Karen Carniol — Cell Hana El-Samad — UCSF James Ferrell — Stanford Justin Gallivan — DARPA Susan Golden — UCSD Jeff Hasty — UCSD Evonne Kaplan-Liss — Stony Brook Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz — NIH X. Shirley Liu — Harvard Katie Pollard — UCSF Bryan Ray — Science Jonathan Weissman — UCSF Lingchong You — Duke CONFERENCE ORGANIZERS: Jeff Hasty, University of California, San Diego Galit Lahav, Harvard University Wendell Lim, University of California, San Francisco Gurol Suel, University of California, San Diego Olga Troyanskaya, Princeton & Simons Center for Data Analysis Lev Tsimring, University of California, San Diego ***REGISTRATION OPENS SOON! *** Registration fee covers conference venue, registration reception, banquet, coffee & snacks. EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION ($700 / $475 Student) DEADLINE: Sunday, December 20, 2015 REGULAR REGISTRATION ($800 / $575 Student) DEADLINE: Sunday, January 31, 2016 LATE REGISTRATION ($875 / $650 Student) After Sunday, January 31, 2016 REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE AT: http://w-qbio.org/ HOTEL: A block of rooms has been reserved for registered conference participants at the Sheraton Waikiki<http://www.sheraton-waikiki.com/> at a negotiated rate starting at $229 per night plus tax. We have also reserved a block of rooms at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani<http://www.princess-kaiulani.com/> (just one block east and across the street from the Sheraton Waikiki) at a negotiated rate starting at $160 per night plus tax. The rooms will be available soon on a first-come, first-served basis, so book early! CONTRIBUTED TALKS: If you wish to present your work at the conference, either as an oral talk or a poster, you must submit an abstract through the conference website by the November 10th deadline. Abstract guidelines and submission information at: http://www.w-qbio.org/submit-abstract/ ABSTRACT DEADLINE: Tuesday, November 10, 2015 Abstract guidelines and submission information at: http://www.w-qbio.org/submit-abstract/ We encourage you to forward this message to any colleagues who may be interested in taking part in this exciting event. Questions should be emailed to: coordinator(a)w-qbio.org<mailto:coordinator@w-qbio.org> SPONSORED BY: ACS Synthetic Biology UC San Diego BioCircuits Institute and the San Diego Center for Systems Biology UC San Diego Divisions of Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, q-bio, and Engineering

Sept. 28, 2015

Release of NEST 2.8.0

by Jochen Martin Eppler

Dear NEST users, NEST 2.8.0 is distributed under the GNU General Public License version 2 (or later). This version marks the completion of our development efforts during the HBP ramp up phase and consists of 290 repository checkins by 25 developers since 2.6.0. The most notable changes are: * The new connection framework introduced in NEST 2.6.0 can now handle parameter arrays for the 'all-to-all' and 'one-to-one' rules. * A new propagator for integrate-and-fire neurons correctly handles the case where membrane and synapse time constants are similar or the same. * Better documentation and much extended examples for PyNEST improve the discoverability of NEST's features. All users are encouraged to upgrade and adapt their simulation scripts to the changes in the user interface at this point in time to benefit from the improvements in the new version. For a full list of changes and download links, see https://github.com/nest/nest-simulator/releases/tag/v2.8.0 IMPORTANT: some of the defaults in NEST changed. You might have to adapt your scripts accordingly. See the release notes for details. Best regards, Jochen! -- Dr. Jochen Martin Eppler Phone: +49 2461 61-9471 ---------------------------------- Simulation Laboratory Neuroscience Jülich Supercomputing Centre Institute for Advanced Simulation ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sept. 27, 2015

Open position: Software Developer in Neuroinformatics

by Thomas Wachtler

At the German Neuroinformatics Node (G-Node, http://www.g-node.org) Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, a full-time position is available to join the G-Node team in developing neuroinformatics solutions for data management in neurophysiology. Variety and complexity of data in this field challenge large-scale data access, consistent storage and efficient data analysis. G-Node is interacting closely with research labs to address these challenges with state of the art neuroinformatics methods, including tools and formats for data annotation, management, and sharing. G-Node is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and is part of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience (http://nncn.de) and national node of the International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF, http://incf.org) The position involves working in a small team of developers within a lively neuroscience environment, with ample opportunities for bridging between neuroscience research and neuroinformatics. Tasks include contributing to the development and enhancement of G-Node formats, tools and services (http://www.g-node.org/tools-and-services, https://github.com/G-Node) working closely with neuroscience laboratories that use, or plan to use, neuroinformatics solutions. Candidates should have excellent programming skills, preferably in Python and C++ or Java, the ability to work in a team, and a strong interest in the development of novel open-source solutions for neuroscience. Experience in fields of relevance, such as semantic web technologies, relational databases, web development, scientific software and analysis, experimental or computational neuroscience, would be beneficial. The position is available immediately, salary level is according to TV-L, duration is one year with possibility of extension. Individuals with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification. Applications by women are specifically encouraged. Applications should include CV, statement of experience and motivation, and names of referees. Informal inquiries prior to application are welcome. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications should be sent, preferably as single pdf file by email, to Thomas Wachtler <wachtler(a)bio.lmu.de> -- Dr. Thomas Wachtler <wachtler(a)bio.lmu.de> Scientific Director German Neuroinformatics Node Department Biology II Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Grosshaderner Str. 2 82152 Planegg-Martinsried Germany

Sept. 26, 2015