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Uri Hasson speaking on September 25 in Developing Minds global online lecture series

by Jochen Triesch

Dear colleagues, On September 25, the Developing Minds global online lecture series is proud to host Uri Hasson from Princeton University, USA, speaking on: "Developing cognitively feasible learning agents that can acquire language like children through real-life experiences“. Thursday, September 25, 2025: 9:00 am EST (Eastern Standard Time, US) 14:00 UTC (Universal Coordinated Time) 15:00 CET (Central European Time) 22:00 JST (Japan Standard Time) The zoom link/credentials are: https://uni-frankfurt.zoom-x.de/j/65594262654?pwd=2BdrxR1IvUy2rjn3dDmfEVGXy… Meeting-ID: 655 9426 2654 Access code: 141793 Abstract: Understanding how humans learn to think, speak, and interact in natural environments is one of the most significant scientific challenges. Traditional computational models perform well in artificial tasks but struggle to generalize to real-life ecological situations. In contrast, new deep learning models excel at processing real-world information and demonstrate cognitive abilities close to those of humans. However, these models are trained on impractically large datasets and use training protocols that are not cognitively feasible, which limits their ability to explain or predict human learning and cognitive development. This project aims to develop the first cognitively feasible learning agents—AI systems that learn language and cognition within constraints that mimic human development. Leveraging a unique dataset (the 1kD corpus)— continuous daily audio-visual recordings from 18 children’s first 1,000 days of life—we will train models directly on the ecologically valid, socially embedded experiences that shape children’s growth. Unlike large-scale industrial models, which depend on vast impersonal datasets, our approach emphasizes individual-centered, real-world input that captures the long-tail variability of human development. By replicating learning trajectories across multiple households, we will establish the first mechanistic framework for how natural input shapes children’s cognition. The project represents a bold shift from analyzing existing models to building new brain-inspired learning agents, directly addressing ecological validity and laying the foundation for a new generation of cognitive science. Short Bio: Uri Hasson grew up in Jerusalem. He studied philosophy and cognitive sciences at the Hebrew University as an undergrad. He completed his Ph.D. in Neurobiology at the Weizmann Institute in Israel and was a postdoctoral fellow at NYU before moving to Princeton. He is currently a Professor in the Psychology Department and the Neuroscience Institute at Princeton University. His research program aims to understand the neural basis of face-to-face, brain-to-brain, communication in real-world contexts, using big ECoG data and deep language models. The talk will be recorded and made available for later viewing. For more information on the talk series and recordings of previous events, please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/developing-minds-series/home Best regards, Jochen Triesch -- Prof. Dr. Jochen Triesch Johanna Quandt Chair for Theoretical Life Sciences Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies and Goethe University Frankfurt http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/~triesch/ Tel: +49 (0)69 798-47531 Fax: +49 (0)69 798-47611

Sept. 8, 2025

Call for Presentations and Workshops: 5th Applied Active Inference Symposium (November 12-14, 2025)

by Zohreh Rahmannejad

Dear Colleagues, (Apologies for any cross-posting.) We are excited to invite researchers and practitioners to submit presentations for the upcoming 5th Applied Active Inference Symposium 2025, to be held on 12-14 November, 2025. This online Symposium will focus on exploring the frontiers of Active Inference with a special focus on its applications in industry. As with last year’s Symposium, the keynote address and panel will feature Karl Friston. All information: symposium.activeinference.institute/ Complete this form <https://coda.io/form/5th-Applied-Active-Inference-Symposium-Presenter-Form_…> to submit your presentation proposal, and/or read on for more details. Please feel free to share this invite with anyone else who you think would be a great addition to the Symposium. Symposium Themes and Topic We are welcoming presentations and workshop submissions that align with the Symposium themes and tracks: - Overall Theme - - Applying Active Inference in Industry: In 2025 we are seeing increased application of Active Inference across industry domains. What are the success stories? What was learned along the way? What challenges remain? What kind of applied research would accelerate applications? - Topics - - Open Science & Tool Development: Increasing the function and accessibility of Active Inference software across languages. Focused tracks and workshops on practical aspects of Active Inference. - Learning & Education: Share initiatives and experiences in teaching and spreading knowledge about Active Inference. Connecting the global Active Inference community with each other, resources, and research/education opportunities. Interactive Aspects & Specific Affordances Submissions of the following types are welcomed: - Presentations: Pre-recorded video presentations of 15-60 minutes, or livestream slots of 30-90 minutes for panels or group discussions. - Workshops, Tutorials, and Hackathons: Hands-on sessions of 60-180 minutes, that engage participants with Active Inference methods and provide open source materials/outputs. Accessibility & Participation We are committed to making this online symposium accessible to all. - Participant registration: The Symposium will be online, with no financial barrier to participation. We will provide pathways for participants to foster deeper involvement with ongoing research and projects <https://activities.activeinference.institute/> in the ecosystem. - Collaboration with Active Inference Journal: We will publish the Abstracts of presentations (similar to last year <https://zenodo.org/records/14106553>) to give visibility to proceedings and enhance availability of the materials - Translation: We will translate materials into different languages where possible, to provide content that reaches a broader audience (the organizing team will support presenters on this). - Multimodal Content: audio, visual, interactive/real-time simulations or other media that help communicate complex ideas. The content will remain posted on our YouTube channel for asynchronous viewing following the symposium. Important Dates - Presenter Submission Deadline: October 12, 2025 - Symposium Dates: November 12-14, 2025 How to Submit Please submit your abstracts and proposals via this form <https://coda.io/form/5th-Applied-Active-Inference-Symposium-Presenter-Form_…>. Symposium co-organizers: Alexander Ororbia, Alexandra Mikhailova, Andrew Pashea, Bradly Alicea, Christian Martens, Cory Slater, Daniel Friedman, Marc Broberg, Maria Garcia, Maria Luiza Iennaco, PabloFM, Rorik Smith, Sylvia Zhang, Bleu Knight, Zohreh Rahmannejad, Alex Vyatkin Contact Information: For any inquiries, please reach out to blanket(a)activeinference.institute . We are also seeking sponsors <https://coda.io/d/AII_do5M5iYau8H/Sponsorship-at-the-Symposium_sue6mCUY> at this time. Information on participant registration will be available here <https://symposium.activeinference.institute/> closer to the date.

Sept. 6, 2025

Postdoc Opportunity in Neonatal Brain Imaging in London – Apply by 25 September

by Fabrizi, Lorenzo

🔬🧠👶 We’re recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a new collaborative project between UCL’s Medawar Pain and Somatosensory Labs, UCLH, and Birkbeck BabyLab/ToddlerLab<https://cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/toddlerlab>, led by Prof. Lorenzo Fabrizi<https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/1290>, Dr. Judith Meek<https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/our-services/find-consultant/dr-judith-meek> and Prof. Emily Jones<https://cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/people/scientificstaff/emily-jones>. This interdisciplinary research explores how early sensory experiences influence long-term sensory processing in preterm-born neonates and children. 🧪 Your Role: • Use EEG and novel sensory testing methods • Identify individuals at risk of sensory challenges • Collaborate with leading experts in brain imaging and neurodevelopment 🎓 We’re Looking For: • Background in Medical Physics, Bioengineering, Computational Neuroscience, or related fields • Proficiency in brain imaging and programming • Strong communication and teamwork skills 🌍 Where: UCL, UCLH, and Birkbeck, London, UK 📅 Deadline: 25 September 2025 📋 Apply here<https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/search-ucl-jobs/details?nPostingId=15369&…> Lorenzo Fabrizi, PhD Professor of Developmental Systems Neuroscience Medical Research Foundation Fellow Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology Department Room G17A, Medawar Building Bloomsbury Campus University College London Gower St, London WC1E 6BT office tel. 02031081888 (int. 51888)

Sept. 5, 2025

Five Faculty Positions in Neuroscience at U Notre Dame

by Robert Rosenbaum

Dear colleagues, The University of Notre Dame is hiring 5 tenure or tenure-track professors in Neuroscience, including Computational Neuroscience, across 4 departments. Feel free to reach out with any questions. And please share with any colleagues who might be interested. apply.interfolio.com/173031 Best, Robert Rosenbaum

Sept. 5, 2025

Postdoctoral Position in Computational Cognitive Neuroscience (Marseille, France)

by Andrea Brovelli

** *We are pleased to announce a postdoctoral opening in computational cognitive neuroscience in the group of Dr. Andrea Brovelli <https://brovelli.github.io/>at the Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone(INT <https://www.int.univ-amu.fr/>), Marseille, France.* * The successful candidate will join the Brain Networksteam (BraiNets <https://www.int.univ-amu.fr/recherche-int/equipes/brainets>), a research group at INT in computational neuroscience at the interface of systems neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, network neuroscience, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The recruited postdoc will work in close collaboration with Dr. Alain Barrat at the Centre de Physique Théorique (CPT <https://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/>). This highly interdisciplinary project combines information-theoretic and network-science approaches to investigate the role of brain interactions in goal-directed causal learning, using multi-scale human neurophysiological data (magnetoencephalography, MEG, and intracranial stereo-electroencephalography, SEEG). What We’re Looking For * PhD in Cognitive and/or Computational Neuroscience, or in Physics, Computer Science, or Mathematics with a strong motivation to transition into neuroscience * Research experience with neural data (e.g., EEG, MEG, ECoG, LFPs) is highly valued * Knowledge of neural mechanisms and computational models of learning and decision-making is welcome * Expertise in information theory, signal processing, or network neuroscience is valued * Proficiency in Python is required * Excellent scientific communication and collaboration skills; publications in top-tier scientific journals are welcome Position Details * Start date:Flexible (ideally before April 2026) * Duration:24 months * Application deadline:November 15, 2025 Application InstructionsPlease send your application (CV and motivation letter) to Dr. Andrea Brovelli. In addition, arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent by your supervisors. ContactDr. Andrea Brovelliandrea.brovelli(a)univ-amu.fr*

Sept. 5, 2025

Cross-domain saliency maps: interpretable attributions for EEG/MEG/LFP models (PyTorch & TensorFlow library)

by Christodoulos Kechris

We are introducing a saliency map method that produces meaningful attributions for time-series ML models. Instead of restricting explanations to the time domain, our approach generates saliency maps in relevant domains such as frequency or ICA components - improving interpretability when applying deep models to EEG/MEG/LFP. *Cross-Domain Saliency Maps* is an open-source toolkit that: - Provides frequency and ICA domain attributions out-of-the box - Extends to any invertible transform with a differentiable inverse - Works plug-and-play with PyTorch and TensorFlow, no retraining required - Demonstrates utility on EEG seizure detection and other datasets *Get started:* *What does your deep model see in your EEG? (Colab demo) * https://colab.research.google.com/drive/1mJmLGzgJaGFJ50Q3BmNVeUECtZQzFLQP#s… *Get the code & run it on your data (GitHub repo)* https://github.com/esl-epfl/cross-domain-saliency-maps <https://github.com/esl-epfl/cross-domain-saliency-maps> *Read the full story (arXiv preprint)* https://arxiv.org/pdf/2505.13100 We would be happy to hear your thoughts and experiences applying this to neural data.

Sept. 3, 2025

conference announcement

by Tom Verguts

Announcing NEUROCOG 2025 Artificial Intelligence and the Human Brain NEUROCOG is a biannual international conference in cognitive neurosciences, held in Belgium. It serves as a dynamic platform for sharing recent advances across all domains of cognitive neuroscience. 🎓 Keynote Speakers * Chris Summerfield * Evelina Fedorenko * Jeff Bowers * Iris Groen * Mariya Toneva * Nicolas Schuck Each keynote talk is followed by extended discussion time. With the same goal of fostering the interactions and discussions among the attendants, there will be no parallel talk sessions and the number of individual talks, as the number of attendants, will be limited. Two guided poster sessions will also be organised. 📅 November 17–18, 2025 📍 Academy Palace, Hertogstraat 1, Brussels (BE) (Walking distance from Brussels Central Station) 📝 Submission Deadline: September 30 🧾 Registration Deadline: October 15 ________________________________ 🔗 More Information * 🌍 Website: neurocog.be<http://neurocog.be/> * 📧 Contact: neurocog2025(a)gmail.com<mailto:neurocog2025@gmail.com>

Sept. 3, 2025

What can you do with 1000 neurons? Task 2

by Nicolas P. Rougier (inria)

Dear all, The first task (simple decision) has been solved by a number of participants. Most of the models were able to survive in the proposed environment for quite a long time, and one entry used the optimal decision strategy, with only 22 neurons (out of 1000 available). The challenge is still running with a new task (cued decision, which might be simpler) and a new agenda (you have two months). You'll find instructions at https://github.com/rougier/braincraft the rules for the new task. Reminder: you have have 1000 neurons (leaky rate models), 100 seconds of training time and 10 runs for evaluation. The difficulty comes from the imposed constraints. You have to 2 months to propose your model. Best, Nicolas Rougier. -- Nicolas P. Rougier —— www.labri.fr/perso/nrougier Institute of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bordeaux

Sept. 3, 2025

COSYNE 2026: Meeting announcement; Call for Abstracts

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2026 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 12 - 15 March 2026 Lisbon, Portugal WORKSHOPS 16 - 17 March 2026 Cascais, Portugal www.cosyne.org ==================================================== ---------------------------------------------------- MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. All abstract submissions will be reviewed double blind. The deadline for Abstract submission will be 16 October 2025. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural basis of behavior, sensory and motor systems, circuitry, learning, neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, neuromodulation, and computation with spiking networks. We would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. IMPORTANT DATES Abstract submission opens: 05 September 2025 Abstract submission deadline: 16 October 2025 When preparing an abstract, authors should be aware that not all abstracts can be accepted for the meeting. Abstracts will be selected based on the clarity with which they convey the substance, significance, and originality of the work to be presented. ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Tatiana Engel (Princeton) and Kevin Franks (Duke) Program Chairs: Kimberly Stachenfeld (DeepMind) and Mark Histed (NIH) Workshop Chairs: N Alex Cayco Gajic (ENS) and Guillaume Lajoie (MILA/U Montreal) Tutorial Chairs: Eva Dyer (Georgia Tech) and Talmo Pereira (Salk) Mentorship and Networking Chairs: Denise Cai (Mount Sinai) and Luke Sjulson (Albert Einstein) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Lea Duncker (Columbia) and Kevin Miller (DeepMind) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) Social Media Chair: Sabera Talukder (Caltech) Audio-Video Media Chair: Carlos Stein Brito (Chamaplimaud) Poster Design: Maja Bialon PROGRAM COMMITTEE Mark Histed (NIH) Co-chair Kimberly Stachenfeld (DeepMind) Co-chair Mikio Aoi (UCSD) Arkarup Banerjee (CSHL) Helen Barron (Oxford) Marcus Benna (UCSD) Adrian Bondy (Princeton) N Alex Cayco Gajic (ENS) Hannah Choi (Georgia Tech) Ben Cowley (CSHL) Brian DePasquale (BU) Sridhar Devarajan (IISc) Laura Driscoll (Allen Institute) Eva Dyer (U Penn) Becket Ebitz (U Montreal) Noemi Elteto (DeepMind) Arseny Finkelstein (Tel Aviv U) Juan Alvaro Gallego (Imperial) Matt Golub (U Washington) Laura Grima (Janelia) Bilal Haider (Georgia Tech) Kiah Hardcastle (Harvard) Y Kate Hong (CMU) Michele Insanally (U Pittsburgh) Jonathan Kao (UCLA) Ann Kennedy (Northwestern) Kishore Kuchibhotla (JHU) Anna Levina (U Tubingen) Camilo Libedinsky (National Institute of Singapore) Laureline Logiaco (CU Anschutz) Emily Mace (Med Cntr Gottingen) Emily Mackevicius (Basis) Francesca Mastrogiuseppe (Champalimaud) Alexander Mathis (EPFL) Luca Mazzucatto (U Oregon) Dan McNamee (Champalimaud) Jorge Mejias (UVA) James Murray (U Oregon) Hendrikje Nienborg (NIH) Ramon Nogueira Manas (U Chicago) Gouki Okazawa (Inst of Neurosci, China) Marino Pagan (U Edinburgh) Agostina Palmigiano (UCL) Hannah Payne (NYU) Rui Ponte Costa (Oxford) Carolina Rezaval (U Birmingham) Erin Rich (NYU) Alex Roxin (Centre de Recerca Matematica) Shreya Saxena (Yale) Benjamin Scott (BU) Alireza Soltani (Dartmouth) Nicholas Steinmetz (UW) Carsen Stringer (Janelia) Jennifer Sun (Cornell, DeepMind) Marie Suver (Vanderbilt) Tatjana Tschumatchenko (U Bonn) John Tuthill (U Washington) Ali Weber (Bryn Mawr) Brandon (Brady) Weissbourd (MIT) Alex Williams (NYU) Klaus Wimmer (Centre de Recerca Matematica) Anqi Wu (Georgia Tech) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org ----------------------------------------------------- COSYNE MAILING LISTS ----------------------------------------------------- Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> About-> Mailing lists for details.

Sept. 2, 2025

BabyBench Competition @ IEEE ICDL 2025: deadline extended to September 8

by Jochen Triesch

Dear colleagues, Due to several requests the deadline of the first BabyBench Competition @ IEEE ICDL 2025 has been extended to September 8 (midnight, Pacific time). This first BabyBench Competition (https://babybench.github.io/2025) is featured at the IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning (ICDL) 2025 (https://icdl2025.fel.cvut.cz/) The topic is how infants discover their own bodies. Can you help the multimodal infant model MIMo learn two typical infant behaviors: self touch and hand regard? What is BabyBench? BabyBench is a Multimodal Benchmark of Infant Behaviors for Developmental Artificial Intelligence. The goal of the competition is to devise learning algorithms that allow MIMo to obtain important milestones of cognitive development. We provide the embodiment, the simulation environments, and the evaluation metrics; all you need is to implement your ideas. Are you up for the challenge? Important dates • New submission deadline: September 8, 2025 • Winner announcement at ICDL: September 19, 2025 Why Participate? • Low Entry Barrier: Get started quickly using our pre-defined, user-friendly simulation environment. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a curious newcomer, the BabyBench platform is designed to let you focus on modeling, not engineering. • The winner will receive a €150 prize sponsored by the IEEE RAS TC Cognitive Robotics. • All finalists will receive a certificate at the IEEE ICDL. • Contribute to the Developmental AI community! For more information visit: https://babybench.github.io/2025 Main contact point: Francisco Lopez (fcomlop(a)gmail.com) Feel free to forward this to anyone who might be interested! Warm regards, The BabyBench 2025 Organizing Team Francisco M. López (Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies) Valentin Marcel (Czech Technical University in Prague) Xavier Hinaut (INRIA Bordeaux) Jochen Triesch (Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies) Matej Hoffmann (Czech Technical University in Prague)

Sept. 2, 2025

Job offer for Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Neuroimaging (Psychosis & Lifespan Normative Modelling)

by christian.gaser＠uni-jena.de

**Employer**: Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital **Contract**: 2 years initially; renewable for up to 3 additional years subject to performance **Project**: “The glue that holds the pieces together”: Unlocking Cognitive Health in Psychotic Disorders (Wellcome Trust) **Application deadline**: 30 September 2025 **Preferred start**: from November 2025 *Short description* This project will (i) quantify global and regional deviations from typical ageing using brain-age models, (ii) disentangle prenatal vs. postnatal structural deviations by leveraging lifespan normative models for cortical gyrification and grey-matter volume, and (iii) characterise and predict longitudinal brain change in psychosis by estimating individual rates of ageing. *Role* You will extend BrainAGE from global estimates to regional normative models using Bayesian regression and GAMLSS to derive age- and region-specific reference distributions (centiles) and individual deviation scores. The work spans multi-site morphometry, scanner harmonisation, model comparison, and external validation. You will work closely with the project lead at the University of Bath and collaborate with partners in Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Cardiff on all aims, including joint analyses and dissemination. *What we offer* * Join the small, highly engaged team behind the CAT12 toolbox and BrainAGE. * A collaborative, supportive atmosphere with genuine day-to-day interaction and room to do your best work. * Close collaboration with the Bath lead and active links to Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Cardiff (regular cross-site meetings and joint outputs). *Requirements* * PhD in Psychology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Neuroscience, Physics, or a related field. * Strong skills in machine learning and statistics; experience with Gaussian process regression and/or probabilistic regression. * Experience with normative modelling is an advantage. * Proficiency in Python (and ideally C/C++); experience with MRI morphometry. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team; excellent written and spoken English. *Application* Please send one PDF containing: motivation letter; CV (including publications); degree certificates with grades; list of relevant courses; and the names and email addresses of two referees to Christian.Gaser(a)uni-jena.de till 30 September 2025. *Contact* For further information about the project, contact: Prof. Dr. Christian Gaser — Tel: +49-3641-9325778 — Email: Christian.Gaser(a)uni-jena.de

Sept. 1, 2025

Tenure track position in Lyon: AI & Neurociences

by DI VOLO MATTEO

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the opening of a Junior Professor (CPJ) position at the University of Lyon 1, entitled Towards a New Convergence of AI and Neuroscience The recruited candidate will lead a research project focused on the development of biologically plausible AI models, linking physiology and cognition. The position is affiliated with the CRNL (Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon): https://www.crnl.fr/fr On the teaching side, the CPJ will contribute to the creation and promotion of new interdisciplinary training programs at the interface of AI and Biology/Health, across Bachelor, Master, and Engineering levels. A funding package of 260,000 euros (in addition to the candidate’s salary) is allocated to support of this project. Applications must be submitted via the French Galaxie–Odyssee platform, closing on September 11. Please note that an account must be created to access the platform. Contacts: * Research Laurent Bezin, CRNL Director – laurent.bezin(a)cnrs.fr<mailto:laurent.bezin@cnrs.fr> Jérémie MAattout, CRNL - jeremie.mattout(a)inserm.fr * Teaching Matteo Di Volo – matteo.di-volo(a)univ-lyon1.fr We would appreciate it if you could circulate this announcement within your networks. Many thanks, Matteo di Volo

Sept. 1, 2025

Reminder: Call for proposals_EduBrains Training Programme ***deadline 04.09.25***

by Frings, Maren

Dear all, We hope this email finds you well. We would like to kindly remind you about the ongoing call for proposals for the EduBrains training series, a unique opportunity for early-career researcher! The training program will offer the opportunity to: * Gain practical and theoretical skills in innovative brain health research * Become a power user of <https://www.ebrains.eu/> EBRAINS, the open research infrastructure that gathers data, tools and computing facilities for brain-related research * Receive training on ethics, dual use, data protection and FAIR open science * Connect with international initiatives, institutions and leading scientists The series of events comprises a total of seven modules over a period of 24 months, which are planned as on-site and online events. Send us an application letter in English explaining your motivation for participating in the training series and include two letters of recommendation until 04.09.2025 to <mailto:edubrains@fz-juelich.de> edubrains(a)fz-juelich.de. More information can be found https://foldercase.com/proext.php?pid=466. and, in case of questions, feel free to contact us. Spaces are limited, don´t miss the chance to be part of this unique initiative! Warm regards, Maren and Valentina Dr. Maren Frings Project Manager Simulation & Data Lab Neuroscience Division HPC in Life Science Jülich Supercomputing Centre Tel +49 2461 61-6431 Fax +49 2461 61-6656 <http://www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc> www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht (Vorsitzende), Dr. Stephanie Bauer (stellvertretende Vorsitzende), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Laurens Kuipers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht (Vorsitzende), Dr. Stephanie Bauer (stellvertretende Vorsitzende), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Laurens Kuipers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sept. 1, 2025

PhD position on multiscale theory and simulation of human language processing

by Tilo Schwalger

A PhD position on multiscale theory and simulation of human language processing is available in the group of Prof. Tilo Schwalger at the Technical University Berlin and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (https://page.math.tu-berlin.de/~schwalge) Germany. The position is offered in the context of the project The Role of Long-Range Brain Connectivity in Human Language Processing (ConnLingua), a collaboration between the Technical University Berlin, the Max-Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences (Leipzig), the Technical University Chemnitz, and the Czech Acedemy of Science (Prague). We will use spiking neural network models for cortical microcircuits, models of white-matter connectivity as well as advanced mean-field methods and human MEG data to develop a whole-brain model that elucidates the neural mechanisms of syntactic language operations. The candidate should have a background in physics, mathematics, computer science, or computational neuroscience. Excellent analytical and programming skills as well as a keen interest in mathematical modeling are required. In addition, expertise in stochastic nonlinear dynamics is desirable. At the Bernstein center, we offer a structured program guiding doctoral researchers through the PhD work and plenty of opportunities for collaborations. The PhD student will also benefit from intensive scientific interactions among researchers of the different labs of the project. For more details, please contact me (e-mail: tilo.schwalger(a)bccn-berlin.de) Please include a CV with publication list. -- Prof. Dr. Tilo Schwalger Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin Philippstr. 13, Haus 6, 10115 Berlin Room: 202, phone: 0049(0)302093 6788 Technische Universität Berlin Institute of Mathematics Straße des 17. Juni 136, 10623 Berlin Room: 784, phone: +49 (0)30 314-22698 http://page.math.tu-berlin.de/~schwalge tilo.schwalger(a)bccn-berlin.de

Aug. 28, 2025

Submissions Open to the Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Research Topic

by Amin Kamaleddin

Dear Colleagues, We're pleased to announce an open call for submissions to the Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Research Topic: Advancements in Neural Coding: Sensory Perception and Multiplexed Encoding Strategies A comprehensive collection exploring neural coding principles across sensory systems, including multiplexed encoding, temporal dynamics, neuromorphic hardware implementations, noise resilience, and beyond. Why submit? - This Research Topic is currently accepting submissions - Articles may include Original Research, Methods, Reviews, Hypotheses & Theory, and more—refer to the full list of article types on the collection webpage Submit via this link: Submission Link Key next steps: - Review the section’s Author Guidelines to ensure your manuscript aligns with scope and formatting. - Reach out promptly—though no formal deadline is stated, early submissions are encouraged. Please share this with peers whose work aligns with the topic, and consider contributing to this timely and impactful collection. Best regards,

Aug. 27, 2025

Tenure Track Position at Rice University

by Caleb Kemere

Dear Colleagues, The Department of BioSciences at Rice University (biosciences.rice.edu) invites applications for an tenure track faculty position. We seek candidates with research programs in theoretical and computational neuroscience, including those who seek to understand nervous system structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and/or developmental levels. All ranks (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor) with a track record of research excellence commensurate with their seniority will be considered. Application review will start October 1, 2025 and will continue until the positions are filled. More information can be found here: https://apply.interfolio.com/172558 Please pass along this announcement to any potential candidates you know who might be interested. Any inquiries regarding this search may be sent to Drs. Rosa Uribe (ru5(a)rice.edu) and Joff Silberg (joff(a)rice.edu) Caleb Kemere -- – 713-348-6089 : MS-384 : BRC971 : http://rnel.rice.edu – – Assoc. Prof, Rice University Electrical & Computer Engineering –

Aug. 26, 2025

Tübingen System Neuroscience Symposium 2025 (SNS2025)

by Tübingen SNS

The Centre for Integrative Neuroscience of the University of Tübingen is pleased to announce the *Tübingen Systems Neuroscience Symposium 2025 (SNS2025)* on *October 6 and 7, 2025 * This annual international meeting will bring together leading researchers in the field of systems neuroscience featuring plenary lectures, poster sessions and social events. Join us in Tübingen to learn about latest advances in systems neuroscience. Confirmed speakers: Marlene Cohen, *University of Chicago* Simone Ebert, *University of Tübingen* Marion Inostroza, *University of Tübingen* Tim Kietzmann,* University of Osnabrück* Etienne Koechlin, *Ecole Normale Supérieure de Paris* Floris de Lange, *Radboud University Nijmegen* Jan Lause, *University of Tübingen* Arthur Lefevre, *University of Lyon* Valerio Mante,* ETH and University of Zürich* Emily Oby, *Queen's University* Liina Pylkkänen, *New York University* Tomás Ryan, *Trinity College Dublin* Laura Seidler, *University of Tübingen* Sylvia Schröder, *University of Sussex* Manuel Spitschan, *Max Planck Institute Biological Cybernetics* Christopher Summerfield, *Oxford University* Mara Wolter, *University of Tübingen* For more information and registration, please visit: http://meg.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/sns_2025/ Follow us on: 🦋 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/snstuebingen.bsky.social 🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/tuebingen_SNS Best regards, SNS 2025 Conference Organizers

Aug. 26, 2025

UK Theoretical Neuroscience Workshop & Call for Posters – London, Dec 16, 2025

by Dimitris Pinotsis

UK Theoretical Neuroscience Workshop & Call for Posters – London, Dec 16, 2025 We are delighted to invite you to the UK Theoretical Neuroscience Workshop, taking place on December 16, 2025, at City St George’s, University of London. This one-day workshop in central London will bring together researchers from across the UK and beyond to share ideas, present cutting-edge work, and spark discussions on computational and theoretical neuroscience. Please find the schedule and details below. Highlights: - An exciting lineup of invited talks covering diverse areas of theoretical and computational neuroscience. - A Poster Session, offering a platform to showcase your research and engage with peers. - A Poster Award, recognizing outstanding contributions and presentations. Schedule: 09:05–09:40 — Claudia Clopath — Semantic extraction via systems consolidation 09:40–10:15 — Dan Goodman — TBA 10:15–10:50 — Thomas Nowotny — Harnessing the adjoint method for gradient descent in spiking neural networks 10:50–11:15 — Break & Posters 11:15–11:50 — Li Su — Digital twin models that talk the talk and walk the walk 11:50–12:25 — Sean Froudist-Walsh — TBA 12:25–13:00 — Vassilis Cutsuridis — Super memory retrieval in the hippocampus 13:00–14:00 — Lunch & Posters 14:00–14:35 — Karl Friston — Active inference and artificial curiosity 14:35–15:10 — Rick Adams — TBA 15:10–15:45 — Conor Houghton — TBA 15:45–16:10 — Break & Posters 16:10–16:45 — Peter Grindrod — The insights from neuroscience driving next generation neuromorphic AI and information processing 16:45–17:20 — Enrico Amico — Higher-order connectomics of human brain function 17:20–17:30 — Poster Award & Closing Remarks Call for Posters (with Poster Award): We invite poster submissions across theoretical and computational neuroscience. Present your work, spark new collaborations, and compete for the Poster Award. Venue: City St George’s, University of London (Auditorium B200) Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 Register / Submit a Poster: [ link ] | | | | | | | | | | | UK Theoretical Neuroscience Workshop Register for the UK Theoretical Neuroscience Workshop, which will be held at City St George’s, University of Lo... | | | We look forward to welcoming you to London for a stimulating day of theory-driven neuroscience! Best regards, Steve Coombes and Dimitris Pinotsis

Aug. 26, 2025

Fwd: Professor in Machine Learning and AI, University of Surrey, UK

by roman bauer

Dear all, We are pleased to announce an open professor position at the University of Surrey: https://jobs.surrey.ac.uk/Vacancy.aspx?id=14997 Closing Date: Tuesday 30 September 2025 The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering at the University of Surrey is seeking to recruit a Professor in Machine Learning and AI with a focus on Large Machine Learning Models to expand our dynamic team of internationally recognised AI faculty and researchers. This is part of a strategic investment of 6 posts across the School in AI, Cyber Security and Satellite Communications. In conjunction with the postholder, the School will also appoint a Lecturer to support their research direction and strategy. The School is home to two established research centres with expertise in AI and Machine Learning: the Computer Science Research Centre (CSRC) and the Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing (CVSSP). This post is aligned to the Nature Inspired Computer and Engineering group within Computer Science. Surrey has an established international reputation in AI research, 1st in the UK for computer vision and top 5 for AI, computer vision, machine learning, robotics and natural language processing (CSRankings.org) and were 7th in the UK for REF2021 outputs in Computer Science research. Computer Science and CVSSP are at the core of the Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI (PAI), established in 2021 as a pan-University initiative which brings together leading AI research with discipline expertise across health, social, behavioural and engineering sciences, business, law and the creative arts to shape future AI for the benefit of people and society. PAI leads a portfolio of over £100m in grant awards including major research activities in creative industries and healthcare, and two doctoral training programmes with funding for over 100 PhD researchers: the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Digital Media Inclusion and the Leverhulme Trust Doctoral Training Network in AI-Enabled Digital Accessibility. The candidate should have wide knowledge of the AI field and ideally experience of working with industry. The candidate must have a proven record of internationally recognised research contributions and leading significant research programmes in AI and Machine Learning. Current research in AI within the School focuses on solving foundational and real-world problems in areas such as Natural Language Processing, Optimisation, Audio and Vision, AI for Health and Medical Applications, Robotics, and Security. Informal inquiries can be directed to the Director of the Computer Science Research Centre, Professor Steve Schneider at *s.schneider(a)surrey.ac.uk* <s.schneider(a)surrey.ac.uk>. The full advert, and application portal, is available at the link above. Our staff and students come from all over the world and we are proud of our friendly and inclusive culture. The University and the Department specifically are committed to building a culturally diverse organisation. Applications are strongly encouraged from female and minority candidates. Best wishes, Roman *Roman Bauer, Ph.D.Senior LecturerHead of the Nature Inspired Computing and Engineering (NICE) Research GroupBioDynaMo SpokespersonComputer Science Research CentreUniversity of SurreyGuildford, UK*

Aug. 25, 2025

Postdoc NeuroAI: AI-powered eye-tracking technology and reconstruction of mental images from neuroimaging data

by Roberto Bottini

The BottiniLab <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=_rV7XZgAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao> (University of Trento Italy) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position focusing on two projects: 1. Development of high-precision eye-tracking technology for closed-eye conditions using machine learning and deep neural networks (DNNs). 2. Reconstruction of visual imagery (and potentially dreams) from non-invasive neuroimaging techniques (fMRI/MEG), combined with machine learning-based eye-tracking technology. The research offers promising applications in both academic and industrial contexts. This position is for an initial term of 24 months, with the possibility of renewal pending available funding. We seek a postdoctoral fellow with strong interests and a solid background in brain decoding and the application of machine learning methods in neuroscience. The eye-movement project (approximately 60-70% workload) involves training neural networks to map Electrooculography (EoG) signals onto concurrently recorded eye-tracking data. This approach aims to significantly enhance EoG precision and enable accurate eye-tracking even with eyes closed. This project is funded by an ERC Proof of Concept (PoC) grant. The brain decoding project (approximately 30-40% workload) utilizes deep neural networks and diffusion models to decode visual information from neuroimaging data and generate images (pictures, short video) directly from brain activity. Our ultimate aim is to apply this technology to internally generated mental contents, including visual imagery, dreams, and lucid dreaming. This project is conducted in collaboration with Dr. Paolo Rota <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=K1goGQ4AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao> from the University of Trento. Lab Environment: The BottiniLab (http://www.bottinilab.com/) is an international research team comprising members from various regions worldwide. Our dynamic and growing group currently includes 3 postdocs, 4 Ph.D. students, and 2 research assistants. The working language at CIMeC is English, promoting an inclusive and globally connected research environment. Facilities and Resources: The CIMeC hosts state-of-the-art research facilities, including: • Siemens Prisma 3T MRI scanner • Magnetoencephalography (MEG) – newly acquired with exceptional signal quality • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation combined with EEG (TMS-EEG) • Advanced eye-tracking technology • Human intracranial stereotactic EEG, facilitated through external collaborations with leading neurosurgical centers Life in Trentino offers exceptional natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and outstanding quality of life, making it an ideal location for both academic and personal growth (https://www.visittrentino.info/en) Applicants must hold a Ph.D. and have substantial experience and interest in artificial neural networks and machine learning. Candidates without prior neuroscience experience but possessing strong computational skills are also encouraged to apply; relevant neuroscience training will be provided. To express your interest, please email the lab manager, Lucia Albasini ( lucia.albasini(a)unitn.it) and cc Roberto Bottini (roberto.bottini(a)unitn.it) Include the following documents: • CV • A brief research statement *Application Deadline: August 29th, 2025* *Starting date: January 2026* -- ****************************************** Roberto Bottini Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience CIMeC - Center for Mind/Brain Sciences University of Trento Via delle Regole 101 38123, Mattarello (TN) Phone: +390461282778 http://www.bottinilab.com ******************************************

Aug. 22, 2025

Postdoctoral position in quantifying neurovascular coupling using simultaneous EEG/fNIRS (Boston University)

by Emily Stephen

Hi All, We have an opening for a two-year Postdoctoral Associate to join our team investigating the mechanisms underlying neurovascular coupling and its modulation by attention and neuromodulation, using simultaneous EEG/fNIRS recordings. Our research team spans Boston University (E Stephen, Math/Stats; D Boas, BME; M Esterman, BUMC; and more), and the position is through the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. For more details and application, see: https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/26858 Thanks, Emily Stephen

Aug. 20, 2025

Call for Papers NeurIPS 2025 Workshop on Symmetry, Geometry and Neural Representations (NeurReps)

by Simone Azeglio

Hello Everyone, We are pleased to announce the call for papers for the 4th edition of the *NeurReps Workshop on Symmetry and Geometry in Neural Representations <https://www.neurreps.org/>* at NeurIPS 2025 in San Diego (December 6-7). Our workshop brings together researchers from computational neuroscience, deep learning, and applied mathematics to explore geometric principles underlying neural representations in both biological and artificial systems. *Important Information:* - *Submission Deadline:* August 29, 2025 (11:59 PM AoE) - *Author Notification:* September 22, 2025 - *Best Paper Awards (sponsored by NewTheory AI <https://www.newtheory.ai/>):* $500 prize for top submissions in each category: - Neuroscience & Interpretability - Topological & Geometric ML - Symmetry & Equivariance *Submission Tracks:* 1. Proceedings Track (up to 9 pages, published in PMLR) 2. Extended Abstract Track (up to 4 pages) *Topics of Interest:* - Representational geometry in neural data - Theory and methods for learning invariant/equivariant representations - Topological deep learning and topological data analysis - Dynamics of neural representations - Geometric approaches to mechanistic interpretability - Symmetries, dynamical systems, and learning *Invited Speakers:* - SueYeon Chung (NYU & Flatiron) - Surya Ganguli (Stanford) - Max Tegmark (MIT) - Katrin Franke (Enigma Project) - Bastian Rieck (University of Fribourg) - Razvan Pascanu (DeepMind & MILA) For submission instructions and LaTeX templates, please visit: https://www.neurreps.org/call-for-papers Questions? Contact us at organizers(a)neurreps.org Best regards, Simone Azeglio & NeurReps Workshop Organizers

Aug. 20, 2025

Abstract submission closing August 29th for The Mechanistic Basis of Foraging 2025, Birmingham (UK), 3-5th November

by Mark Humphries

Abstract submission for the "The Mechanistic Basis of Foraging 2025" will close on August 29th https://uobevents.eventsair.com/the-mechanistic-basis-of-foraging/ This international meeting will bring together everyone fascinated by the brain's role in foraging - ecologists, neuroscientists, theorists, psychologists, clinicians and all. It will be at the Edgbaston Park Hotel, University of Birmingham, UK on 3-5th November 2025. Confirmed talks from Miriam Klein-Flügge<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAACtE-3kBGfSLNtzwaO6Gg_61I2z7v1QL2cY> (Oxford), Susan Healy (St Andrews), Benjamin Hayden<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAACqwHUBWuoA8vX4E9N3dC7uDIwKm0gvJqk> (Rice), Dean Mobbs<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAADO7t_EBfMOStW_2EEXmENwS1evhIbwqXxM> (Caltech), Becket Ebitz<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAACCpbA8BHCMs39mrznP4hOIHFZXsdQvjof0> (Montreal), David Barack (Pennsylvania), Jennifer Li<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABs3v9oB9QVZ7O9k-SSERjAk7Rg1TdBsCLg> (Max Planck), Elli Leadbeater (UCL), Aaron Bornstein<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABpLq0cBebU5WP08r2J0Psww0wcniLCYixI> (UC Irvine), Nicholas Furl<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAAU3bbUBQbDszqRAFEIbNuWQGfbXb_3rpUg> (Royal Holloway), Mark Humphries (University of Nottingham), and more to come. We are grateful to University of Birmingham<https://www.linkedin.com/company/university-of-birmingham/>, BBSRC<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bbsrc/> and The Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH)<https://www.linkedin.com/company/thechbh/> for supporting this meeting. Please share in your networks! Organising Committee: Prof. Matthew Apps, University of Birmingham Prof. Mark Humphries, University of Nottingham Prof. Mark Walton, University of Oxford Dr. Laura Grima, HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus Dr. Tiago Monteiro, University of Aveiro Dr. Adithya Rajagopalan, NYU Emma Scholey, University of Birmingham Kubra Karatas, University of Birmingham This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

Aug. 18, 2025

[Meetings] Call for Participation – Workshop on NeuroDesign in Human–Robot Interaction (IEEE RO-MAN 2025)

by NeuroDesign in HRI

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to invite you to the 3rd Workshop on NeuroDesign in Human–Robot Interaction, held in conjunction with the IEEE International Conference on Robot and Human Interactive Communication (RO-MAN 2025). The event will take place on August 25, 2025 in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, with both onsite and online participation options. ================================================== CALL FOR PARTICIPATION Date: August 25, 2025 Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm CEST Location: Eindhoven, Netherlands Format: Hybrid (Onsite & Online via Zoom) Workshop Website: https://neurodesign-in-hri.webflow.io Conference Website: https://www.ro-man2025.org Registration (Zoom link): https://forms.gle/fQMxJtkXb8JEU2WR6 ================================================== WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION The NeuroDesign in Human–Robot Interaction Workshop explores how neuroscience, AI, psychology, wearable robotics, and human-centered design can converge to create the next generation of brain-centered, intuitive, and engaging human–robot systems. NeuroDesign goes beyond performance metrics, focusing on cognitive and physical interactions (cHRI/pHRI) that feel natural to the brain and body—adaptive, ergonomic, and socially meaningful. The program will feature cutting-edge research, live demonstrations, and interdisciplinary discussion on themes such as: Themes include: - Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCI) and Cognitive HRI - Wearable and Assistive Robotics - Neuroergonomics and Human Factors - Embodied AI and Human–AI Co-adaptation - Affective and Social Robotics - Soft Robotics, Exosuits, and Human Augmentation ================================================== DISTINGUISHED SPEAKERS Keynote Speakers: - Jeff Krichmar, University of California, Irvine - Alessandra Sciutti, Italian Institute of Technology - Matteo Bianchi, University of Pisa - Raphaëlle N. Roy, Université de Toulouse - Kyle Yoshida, University of California, Los Angeles - Kai Arulkumaran, Araya Inc. - Kinsey Herrin, Georgia Institute of Technology - Alexis E. Block, Case Western Reserve University Industry Spotlight: - Tharun Iyer, OpenBCI - Ryan Hanson, Wearable Sensing ================================================== STUDENT EXPO & COMPETITION The Student EXPO & Competition is still open for submissions. Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students are invited to present their concepts, prototypes, or exploratory studies in HRI, BCI, and neuro-inspired design. Highlights: - Prizes doubled compared to the previous call - All 10 selected finalists will receive awards - Awards include: * Best Innovation in HRI NeuroDesign (up to €500) * Most Popular Project Award (including a full APC waiver for Frontiers in Robotics and AI) * Lucky Draw Prizes (e.g., DIY Neuroscience Kit, Raspberry Pi 5, wearable EMG kits, etc.) * Certificates for all finalists Intent-to-Participate Deadline: August 20, 2025 Intent Form: https://forms.gle/TeywZB55NchRXeWn6 Competition Guidelines: https://neurodesign-in-hri.webflow.io/#competition-guidelines ================================================== JOIN US The NeuroDesign in HRI Workshop provides a unique platform to engage with leading researchers, industry innovators, and student projects shaping the future of human–machine synergy. We look forward to welcoming you in Eindhoven or online. Best regards, Organizing Committee 3rd Workshop on NeuroDesign in Human–Robot Interaction @ IEEE RO-MAN 2025 Email: neurodesign.hri(a)gmail.com Website: https://neurodesign-in-hri.webflow.io

Aug. 18, 2025

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in AI for Low-Cost PET–MRI Imaging at the University of Cape Town, South Africa

by jon.shock＠gmail.com

The Shocklab, picoPET, and SoLow research groups at the University of Cape Town (UCT) invite suitably qualified candidates to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in AI for low-cost medical imaging. The fellowship advances research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, image reconstruction, and multimodal neuroimaging, with applications to global health and diagnostic equity in low-resource settings. Call for Applications The successful fellow will be jointly hosted by the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, the picoPET group in the Department of Physics, and the SoLow group in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and will conduct research on AI-based PET/MRI reconstruction, PET–MRI fusion, and advanced image analysis techniques. Conditions of Award (General) • Applicants must have achieved a doctoral degree within the past five (5) years. • Applicants may not previously have held full-time, permanent professional or comprehensive academic posts. • The successful incumbent will be required to comply with UCT’s approved policies, procedures, and practices for postdoctoral fellows. • No benefits or allowances are included other than those stated under Value and Tenure. • Postdoctoral fellows may undertake up to 12 hours per week of remunerated employment outside the fellowship for professional development; such remuneration is taxable and processed via UCT HR. Value and Tenure • Value of the fellowship: R500,000 per annum, compliant with the SARS Binding Class Ruling and therefore tax-exempt. • Travel allowance: R50,000 per annum for conferences and collaborations. • Tenure: One (1) year, renewable for up to one (1) additional year (maximum two years). In line with UCT policy, further extension up to five years of enrolment may be considered under exceptional circumstances. • Location: University of Cape Town, South Africa. • Start date: Available immediately or from early 2026. Academic Criteria • PhD in a relevant field (e.g., AI, biomedical engineering, medical imaging, applied mathematics, physics). • Experience with image reconstruction/medical imaging or a strong computer vision background, and deep learning. • Proficiency in Python-based ML frameworks (e.g., JAX, PyTorch). • Strong publication record and ability to work independently. Project Description The fellow will lead research at the interface of AI and low-cost imaging hardware, including: • Design of AI-based PET and MRI reconstruction algorithms optimized for signal recovery, clinical interpretability, and efficiency. • Validation on simulated and experimental data, benchmarking against MLEM, OSEM, and FBP using PSNR/SSIM or related metrics. • Development of PET–MRI image fusion pipelines combining picoPET and SoLow data. • Evaluation of the diagnostic utility of fused images through expert review or pilot clinical studies. • Exploration of advanced techniques (e.g., end-to-end multimodal models, latent-space regularization, attention mechanisms, diffusion-based denoising, super-resolution). The long-term aim is to demonstrate that AI can enable high-quality medical imaging in low-resource settings using affordable hardware. Research Environment • Shocklab, led by Associate Professor Jonathan Shock (Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics; Interim Director of the UCT AI Initiative). • picoPET, led by Dr James Keaveney, developing novel low-cost PET systems. • SoLow, led by Professor Ernesta Meintjes, pioneering low-field MRI technology. The fellow will join an interdisciplinary team across Biomedical Engineering, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, Physics, and the Neuroscience Institute. Computing Resources • Access to the UCT High Performance Computing cluster. Application Requirements Please submit a single PDF including: • Letter of application stating expertise, research interests, and experience. • Curriculum vitae with publication list. • Description of prior research and its relevance to AI-based medical imaging. • Research statement (1–2 pages) outlining ideas for the PET–MRI project. • Certified copies of academic transcripts. • Either names and contact details or letters of reference from at least two academics who have taught, supervised, or worked with the applicant. Applications and enquiries: Associate Professor Jonathan Shock, jonathan.shock(a)uct.ac.za Selection Process Eligible and complete applications will be considered by the hosting departments in consultation with the relevant research groups. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interview. Key Dates Application deadline: 15 September 2025 Interviews: October 2025 About UCT and Cape Town UCT, founded in 1829, is consistently ranked among Africa’s leading universities, with a diverse community of over 30,000 students and a strong international profile. The main campus lies at the foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town, a city offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban culture. Living costs in Cape Town are substantially lower than in major US or European cities. See: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Cape-Town Equity Statement UCT is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. The Employment Equity Policy is available at Employment Equity Policy. Indemnity The University of Cape Town reserves the right to disqualify ineligible, incomplete and/or inappropriate applications, change the conditions of award, or make no awards at all.

Aug. 17, 2025