- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

[seminar.wwtns] New recordings are available on the VVTNS website
by David Hansel Nov. 5, 2025

Nov. 5, 2025

[image: VVTNS.png] > > <https://streaklinks.com/BT7ApM4NDVkoziHWhQptf9sP/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > https://www.wwtns.online > <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide - on Youtube > New recordings available on the VVTNS website https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2024-2025 ---------------------------- The First Memorial Carl van Vreeswijk Lecture Do contemporary, machine-executable models of primate sensory systems unlock the ability to non-invasively, beneficially modulate high level brain states? delivered on April 9, 2025 by James DiCarlo MIT ---------------------------- Learning generative dynamical systems models from multi-modal and multi-animal neuro-data delivered on April 23, 2025 by Daniel Durstewitz Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim ------------------------------------------------- Energy efficient learning in neural networks delivered on May 7, 2025 by Mark van Rossum University of Nottingham ------------------------------------------------- Neural mechanisms of memory linking and replay: inhibition matters delivered on May 14, 2025, by Tomoki Fukai Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology ------------------------------------------------- From neurons to Newtons: Brain evolution as a machine learning problem delivered on May 21, 2025 by Alexei Koulakov Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* April, 13, 2022 ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ

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Neural Data Analysis Workshop at Flatiron Institute (Feb 2-5, 2026) - Apply Now
by Edoardo Balzani Nov. 5, 2025

Nov. 5, 2025

Dear colleagues, Excited to share a great opportunity for systems neuroscientists! This February, the Flatiron Institute Center for Computational Neuroscience of the Simons Foundation is hosting a hands-on workshop on neural data analysis in New York City. *Workshop Details:* *What: *3-day workshop on pynapple & NeMoS *When: *February 2–5, 2026 *Where: *Flatiron Institute, NYC *Who:* Grad students & postdocs analyzing electrophysiology or calcium imaging data Via live-coding and hands-on group projects, you will learn to: - Use pynapple for neural data manipulation and exploration - Build statistical models with NeMoS (powered by JAX with GPU acceleration) *Cost:* Accommodation & meals provided, no participation fees. Both packages are open-source Python tools developed at Flatiron CCN to streamline neural data analysis and modeling. *Apply here:* https://simonsfoundation.formstack.com/forms/ neural_data_analysis_workshop_at_flatiron_institute *Learn more:* https://www.simonsfoundation.org/event/flatiron-ccn-neural-data-analysis-wo… Please feel free to share with anyone who might be interested! Best regards, Edoardo Balzani -- *Edoardo Balzani* Associate Research Scientist Center for Computational Neuroscience Flatiron Institute

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Open PhD position - Brain-inspired Machine Learning and Spiking Neural Networks
by Robert Legenstein Nov. 5, 2025

Nov. 5, 2025

The Lab of Robert Legenstein at Graz University of Technology (Austria) https://www.tugraz.at/institute/iml/people/prof-legenstein/ is offering a funded PhD position (Univ. Assistant) in the areas Brain-inspired Machine Learning/Spiking Neural Networks. In paticular, we will investigate brain-inspired models that bridge between sub-symbolic and symbolic artificial intelligence approaches in the context of the Cluster of Excellence Bilateral AI: https://www.bilateral-ai.net A background in Machine Learning, Computer Science, or Mathematics is desirable, as well as evidence for excellent prior performance as a student. For details and application portal, see https://jobs.tugraz.at/en/jobs/2a6e0939-accb-36e0-f2b6-68da792d9797?preview… -- Dr. Robert Legenstein Univ.-Professor Institute of Machine Learning and Neural Computation Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria http://www.iml.tugraz.at/legi/ WebEx: https://tugraz.webex.com/meet/robert.legenstein ++43/316/873-5824 ----------------------------------

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Virtual workshop (Nov 13, 9am - 12pm US Pacific Time) - Neuroscience Gateway enabling large scale modeling, AI/ML, data processing, and software dissemination on supercomputers
by Majumdar, Amitava Nov. 5, 2025

Nov. 5, 2025

Dear Colleagues, We are organizing a virtual workshop titled "Neuroscience Gateway enabling large scale modeling, AI/ML, data processing, and software dissemination on supercomputers". Please see the list of speakers, title of talks, abstracts, date and time below. If you are interested in attending please register via the registration link. Thank you. Amit Majumdar and Subhashini Sivagnanam San Diego Supercomputer Center University of California San Diego ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: 13 November (Thursday) 2025 Time: 9:00 – 12:00 USA Pacific Time Workshop Abstract: The Neuroscience Gateway (NSG) serves the neuroscience community by providing researchers and students easy, open and free access to a large number of neuroscience software and tools on supercomputing resources, academic cloud computing resources, and associated storage resources, which are located at various national academic supercomputer centers in the US and funded by the National Science Foundation. NSG is also a dissemination platform and enables dissemination of neuroscience modeling and data processing software to the community. This virtual workshop is intended for computational, cognitive and experimental neuroscientists – researchers and students - who use large scale modeling, AI/ML and data processing for their research. Computational neuroscientists who are building and using computational models of neurons and network of neurons, and cognitive neuroscientists who are processing EEG, fMRI and other types of data, as well as neuroscientist who are using AI/ML for their research, will find this workshop of interest. NSG is funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. Registration deadline: November 11, 2025 Register for this session at: https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/newreg.php?eventid=862126<https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/newreg.php?eventid=862126&>&<https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/newreg.php?eventid=862126&> Agenda (times in USA Pacific Time): 9:00 – 9:30: Human Neocortical Neurosolver (HNN): An open-source software for cellular and circuit-level interpretation of human MEG/EEG, Dylan Daniels, Brown University Abstract: HNN is a user-friendly neural modeling software designed to provide a cell and microcircuit-level interpretation of macroscale magneto- and electroencephalography (M/EEG) signals (hnn.brown.edu, Neymotin et al 2020). The foundation of HNN is a biophysically-detailed neocortical model, representing a patch of neocortex receiving thalamic and corticocortical drive. The HNN model was designed to simulate the time course of primary current dipoles and enables direct comparison, in nAm units, to source-localized M/EEG data, along with layer-specific cellular activity. HNN workflows are constructed around simulating commonly measured ERPs and low-frequency oscillations. In this workshop, we will review the scientific foundations underlying the HNN model. Thereafter, will we walk through how to get started with HNN using NSG, and we will briefly demo various features of the HNN GUI. 9:35 – 10:05: AI-driven Brain Digital Twins: Large-scale biophysical models of neuronal circuits to study brain function and disease, Salvador Dura Bernal, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Abstract: Understanding brain function and disease requires studying interactions across multiple scales, from molecular and cellular mechanisms to circuit-wide dynamics and behavior. Biophysically detailed brain circuit models provide a powerful tool to integrate diverse experimental data across these scales, allowing researchers to simulate and analyze brain activity in a mechanistic and predictive manner. Leveraging AI and high-performance computing, we have developed large-scale, biologically realistic models of various thalamocortical circuits, including motor, somatosensory, and auditory regions, each comprising ~15,000 neurons and ~30 million synapses. These models incorporate experimentally derived neuronal morphologies, electrophysiological properties, and connectivity, enabling them to reproduce cell-type and layer-specific electrical activity patterns observed in vivo across scales, from membrane voltages and action potentials to local field potentials and electroencephalogram signals. Our models have been instrumental in elucidating the cellular and circuit mechanisms underlying neurological disease and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, epilepsy, dystonia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s disease. They also offer insights into therapeutic targets to restore healthy neural dynamics through novel pharmacological and neurostimulation treatments, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). These mechanistic models provide the foundation for constructing AI-driven Brain Digital Twins—virtual replicas of an individual’s brain state that integrate multimodal patient data to simulate brain function, predict disease progression, and optimize personalized treatment strategies. By bridging mechanistic modeling of brain circuits and AI, Brain Digital Twins have the potential to transform diagnosis, prevention and treatment of neurological and psychiatric conditions, addressing key challenges in brain research and clinical care. 10:10 – 10:40: NeuroelectroMagnetic Data Archive and high-performance computing for human EEG/MEG/iEEG data: the NEMAR-NSG platform, Arnaud Delorme; Seyed Yahya Shirazi; Dung Truong; Choonhan Youn; Subhashini Sivagnanam (UC San Diego); Russell A. Poldrack (Stanford University); Amitava Majumdar; Scott Makeig (UC San Diego) Abstract: The NeuroElectroMagnetic Data Archive and Tools Resource integrates open data, standardized annotation, and high-performance computing to accelerate reproducible analysis of human EEG, MEG, and iEEG. Built as a gateway to OpenNeuro, NEMAR indexes BIDS-formatted datasets with HED event annotations, provides search, quality assessment, and interactive visualizations, and brokers compute to SDSC resources through the Neuroscience Gateway for scalable, containerized workflows including EEGLAB-based pipelines. By coupling archive storage to NSG-mediated execution on systems such as Expanse, NEMAR minimizes data movement and enables end-to-end, provenance-preserving analyses at scale, supporting FAIR principles and cross-study meta-analysis. Together, NEMAR and NSG lower barriers for large-cohort neurophysiology, promote standardized event semantics, and provide a transparent path from dataset discovery to replicable results. 10:45 – 11:15: Neuron and NSG – parallel software meets parallel hardware, Ted Carnevale, Yale University Abstract: This presentation surveys how the Neuroscience Gateway has enabled productive use of the NEURON simulator to address problems in the domain of computational neuroscience that require high-performance and high-throughput computing. 11:20 – 11:50: HiAER-Spike: Running large spiking neural networks on an FPGA neuromorphic computing platform through NSG, Kenneth Yoshimoto, Diana Vins UC San Diego Abstract: HiAER-Spike is a hardware (FPGA)/software (Python) platform for reconfigurable neuromorphic computing. It has the potential to execute spiking neural networks up to 160 million neurons and 40 billion synapses. A Python interface allows users to specify neurons, connectivity, and input and direct timesteps. This tool is available through NSG. This talk will present integration of NSG with the hardware and show data demonstrating running a network on the FPGA. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Tadahiro Taniguchi speaking on Thursday, November 13 in Developing Minds global online lecture series
by Jochen Triesch Nov. 4, 2025

Nov. 4, 2025

Dear colleagues, On November 13, the Developing Minds global online lecture series is proud to host Tadahiro Taniguchi from Kyoto University, Japan, speaking on: "Developing Collective Minds: Symbol Emergence and Co-creative Learning via Collective Predictive Coding“. Thursday, November 13, 2025 3 am EST (Eastern Standard Time, US) 8 am UTC (Universal Coordinated Time) 9 am CET (Central European Time) 5 pm JST (Japan Standard Time) The zoom link/credentials are: https://uni-frankfurt.zoom-x.de/j/62848974907?pwd=wKdKlyBSVirfJqzrFfULhhOiu… Meeting-ID: 628 4897 4907 Kenncode: 735273 Abstract: This talk introduces the Collective Predictive Coding (CPC) hypothesis, a computational theory for how collective minds develop. CPC extends the Free Energy Principle (FEP) to the societal level, positing that interacting agents (both human and artificial) collaboratively minimize their collective prediction error through interaction. We argue that this process, functioning as a form of decentralized Bayesian inference embodied in interaction games, is the engine for symbol emergence. It provides a mechanism for agents to integrate their partial and heterogeneous perceptual information, leading to a shared, co-created understanding that exceeds the capabilities of any single agent. The CPC framework provides a scientific foundation for "co-creative learning," a new paradigm for human-AI interaction where systems learn with humans, rather than merely from them. This contrasts with traditional AI alignment, which often assumes a unilateral transfer of knowledge. CPC enables a bilateral, organic alignment that emerges from continuous, mutual interaction. This bottom-up, co-creative process offers a compelling alternative to top-down alignment methods, paving the way for a future of human-AI symbiosis. It allows humans and AI to co-evolve, generate new knowledge together, and realize the development of true collective minds. Short Bio: Tadahiro Taniguchi is a Professor at the Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University. He received his M.E. in 2003 and Ph.D. in Engineering in 2006, both from Kyoto University. He began his academic career at Ritsumeikan University, serving as an Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor in the College of Information Science and Engineering before assuming his current position at Kyoto University in 2024. During his tenure at Ritsumeikan, he was also a Visiting Associate Professor at Imperial College London from September 2015 to September 2016. Concurrently, he serves as a Senior Technical Advisor at Panasonic Holdings Corporation, an Affiliate Professor at Ritsumeikan University, a Director of the Tomorrow Never Knows association, Representative Director of the Bibliobattle Association, Director of the AI Robot Association (AIRoA), a Technical Advisor for ABEJA, Inc., and the Chair of the IEEE Cognitive and Developmental Systems Technical Committee. His research interests include artificial intelligence, emergent systems, and cognitive and developmental robotics. He is a pioneer in the field of "Symbol Emergence in Robotics," a constructive approach to understanding the mechanisms of language acquisition and semantic understanding from the perspective of the symbol grounding problem. Dr. Taniguchi has received numerous awards, including the Academic Encouragement Award from the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers (SICE), the Paper Award from the Institute of Systems, Control and Information Engineers (ISCIE), and the Advanced Robotics Best Survey Paper Award. 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

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CALL FOR SYMPOSIA PROPOSALS: AISB 2026, University of Sussex
by Simon Bowes Nov. 4, 2025

Nov. 4, 2025

CALL FOR SYMPOSIA PROPOSALS: AISB 2026, University of Sussex (DEADLINE: November 30, 2025) Contact: Simon Bowes (S.C.Bowes(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:S.C.Bowes@sussex.ac.uk>) AISB 2026 will be held at the University of Sussex on the 1st-2nd July. For more information on the convention please see the website at https://aisb.org.uk/. Keynote Speaker: Anil Seth The AISB 2026 convention will follow the same overall structure as previous conventions, namely a set of co-located symposia, and we are seeking proposals for these symposia. Typical symposia last for one or two days, and can include any type of event of academic benefit: talks, posters, panels, discussions, demonstrations, outreach sessions, etc. Proposals for Symposia are welcomed in all areas of AI and cognitive science. Some suggested areas are shown below, although any proposal in the field of AI or cognitive science will be welcomed: * AI in Education * Agency & AI * Art & AI * Artificial Life * Cognitive & Computational Neuroscience * Computational theory of mind * Computational Intelligence * Consciousness * Embodiment and AI * Ethics of AI * Human and Machine Creativity * Hybrid Human-AI * Knowledge Representation * Machine Learning * Robotics * Bio-inspired approaches. * Simulation of Human and Animal Behaviour * The Turing Test and Philosophical Foundations of AI -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Proposing a Symposium Each symposium is organized by its own programme committee. The committee proposes the symposium, defines the area(s) and structure for it, issues calls for abstracts/papers etc., manages the process of selecting submitted papers for inclusion, and compiles an electronic file for inclusion in the convention proceedings. Proposers are welcome to submit or be involved with more than one proposal. Proposers need not already be members the AISB and will not be required to become members. They will of course be encouraged to join! Deadline for symposium proposals: 30th November 2025 Notification of acceptance: 15th December 2025 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Submissions should consist of the following - A title. - A 300–1000-word description of the scope of the symposium, and its relevance to the convention along with the nature of the academic events (talks, posters, panels, demonstrations, etc.). - Whether the symposium is intended as a sequel to a symposium at a previous AISB conference. - An indication of whether submissions will be by abstract, extended abstract, or full paper. - Your preferences about the intended length of the symposium as a number of days (half a day, one day or two days), together with a brief justification. - A description (up to 500 words) of any experience you have in organization of academic research meetings (please note that it is not a requirement that you have such experience). - Names and affiliations of any invited speakers that you may have in mind for the symposium. - Your names and full contact details, together with, if possible, names and workplaces of the members of a preliminary, partial programme committee. - Please e-mail your completed proposal to Simon Bowes: S.C.Bowes(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:S.C.Bowes@sussex.ac.uk>

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[Meetings] [CFP] NeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition (Submission Deadline: November 10, 2025)
by NeuroDesign in HRI Nov. 4, 2025

Nov. 4, 2025

Dear HRIers, HCIers, Roboticists and Neuroscientists around the world, We hope this information finds you well! Are you developing a human-interactive robot, a wearable system, or a neuro-inspired interface and algorithm? Do you have a prototype, an early-stage concept, or a compelling study that reimagines the future of human-machine interaction? Thank you once again for your interest in participating in the *NeuroDesign in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) Student Competition* (previously with IEEE RO-MAN 2025). We truly appreciate your continued enthusiasm and support! *🌟 We're thrilled to announce an exciting new update!* The *NeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition *has been scheduled again as a "Virtual" event on *November 19, 2025*. This unique showcase welcomes undergraduate, master's, and PhD students to present their innovative work and engage in live, cross-disciplinary dialogue with an international jury of experts from * Human-Robot Interaction * Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) * Cognitive Neuroscience & Psychology * Wearable and Soft Robotics * Design, Arts & Human-Centered Engineering * AI, Innovation, and Startups Whether your project is a concept, a working prototype, or an exploratory study, we are excited to see how it challenges conventional boundaries and contributes to the evolution of neuroadaptive, engaging, and socially impactful technologies. 📤 *Final Submission Deadline: Monday, November 10, 2025* If you missed the chance to participate last time — no worries! 🎉 You're warmly invited to submit your entry by including the following materials to secure your* 5-minute pitch* spot (We're dedicating on selecting *10 finalists* on a *rolling basis* and *there are still few seats available!!* ): * (1) Project Title (required) (2) Abstract (~100 words) (required) (3) Choose One of the following (choose one) (required):* * 🎥 A 1–2 minute video overview, or 🖼️ 5 informative slides, or 📄 A 2-page write-up (IEEE RAS format preferred)* *You can submit your materials directly through our Google Form:*👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHr36BmtfTxLbjHSmiY1CYapUiZPXHgsn… —*or simply reply to the email *(✉️ neurodesign.hri(a)gmail.com) with your materials attached (or share access links). *🏆 Awards & Recognition* For full details on all awards and recognitions, please see here: 🔗 https://www.neurodesign-hri.ws/2025#competition-guidelines 🔆 *Highlights include:* 🧠 Best Innovation in HRI NeuroDesign (3 awards) – up to €500 EUR ❤️ Most Popular Project Award (2 awards) – including a full APC waiver for Frontiers in Robotics and AI 🎁 Lucky Draw Prizes (5 prizes) and certificates for all finalists 💯 100% award opportunity – all 10 finalists will receive recognition! ✨ Prizes are doubled compared to the previous call! *📅 Key Dates* 🔺* Final Submission Deadline: November 10, 2025* 🔺* Event Date: November 19, 2025* Join us in shaping the future of human-machine symbiosis—where your creativity fuels the innovation of tomorrow. We can't wait to see your visionary ideas come to life! With warm regards, *The NeuroDesign in Human-Robot Interaction TeamNeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition*

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Fully funded PhD position for Chinese nationals in rodent electrophysiology analysis at QMU (London)
by Bush, Daniel Nov. 4, 2025

Nov. 4, 2025

Dear colleagues Please see here<https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbbs/postgraduate/phd-programmes/projects/display-ti…> for details of a fully funded PhD position for Chinese nationals at Queen Mary University (London, UK). The project will primarily focus on the analysis of rodent electrophysiology data from the hippocampal formation, under the joint supervision of Guifen Chen<https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbbs/staff/guifen-chen.html> (QMU) and Daniel Bush<https://bushlab-ucl.github.io/> (UCL). Data collection and computational modelling could also be incorporated, according to the successful applicant's interests and skills. This project offers a unique opportunity to bridge neuroscience, data science, and AI, helping to uncover how the brain turns transient experience into lasting memory. Please note that applicants must be a Chinese citizen and hold a Chinese passport so that they are eligible for CSC funding<https://www.qmul.ac.uk/scholarships/items/china-scholarship-council-scholar…> <https://www.qmul.ac.uk/scholarships/items/china-scholarship-council-scholar…> . Experience of programming in Matlab or Python, a good understanding of maths and/or experience of rodent experiments are also highly desirable. For more details, please feel free to contact Guifen Chen (guifen.chen AT qmul.ac.uk) or Daniel Bush (d.bush AT ucl.ac.uk). Many thanks Dan ---------------------------------------------------- Dr. Daniel Bush GM01, Medical Sciences Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT Principal Investigator, UCL Human Electrophysiology Lab<https://bushlab-ucl.github.io/> Associate Professor, UCL Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology<https://www.ucl.ac.uk/npp/> Associate Editor, PLoS Computational Biology<https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/>

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Postdoc positions in nanoscale modeling of neurons, synapses or astrocytes
by Erik De Schutter Nov. 4, 2025

Nov. 4, 2025

The Computational Neuroscience unit (https://www.oist.jp/research/research-units/cnu) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology has openings for postdoctoral researchers interested in nanoscale computational neuroscience modeling. Initial duration is two years with option to extend. We have been spearheading the development of efficient computational tools to simulate electrophysiological, molecular and cell biology processes in neurons at the nanoscale (STEPS project http://steps.sourceforge.net) Examples are detailed simulations of the molecular control of vesicle pools and their release in presynaptic terminals (Science Advances 2025) and of how morphology affects calcium transients in perisynaptic astrocytic processes. We make use of recent experimental data like single cell proteomics and super-resolution imaging of live cells. The modeling technology allows for simulation of complete neurons with their spines. We are looking for postdocs interested in pursuing questions about the function of cerebellar or hippocampal neurons, synapses or astrocytes that require nanoscale simulation. Competences: Experience in computational modeling with a recent PhD in a relevant discipline such as computational biology, neuroscience, molecular biology, biophysics or biochemistry. Experience in programming in Python. Fluent English conversation and writing skills. Benefits / Offer: A seniority-based salary and relocation package are offered. Standard medical insurance and housing allowance are included. This an ideal position to gain experience in a prominent computational neuroscience lab and take part in our international collaborations. Please contact Prof. Erik De Schutter (erik(a)oist.jp) for inquiries.

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World wide VVTNS series (6th season): Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 11:00 am ET - Georges Debrégeas CNRS, Paris
by David Hansel Nov. 2, 2025

Nov. 2, 2025

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture Georges Debrégeas CNRS, Paris on the topic of Latent-aligned generative models uncover shared structure in spontaneous whole-brain dynamics? The lecture will be held on zoom on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at *11:00 am ET * > To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page > *Abstract: *Assessing how brain activity generalizes across individuals is a central challenge in experimental neuroscience. Traditional task- or stimulus-driven approaches align data through trial averaging and anatomical registration, but these methods fail for spontaneous activity, where no shared temporal reference exists. In this talk, I will introduce a statistical framework, called latent-aligned Restricted Boltzmann Machines, to build a common representational space from whole-brain recordings of spontaneous activity in multiple zebrafish larvae. This shared latent space, composed of spatially localized co-activation motifs or cell assemblies, allows bidirectional mapping of brain states: activity patterns from one fish can be encoded and decoded into another. The translated activity patterns retain their original spatial structure and show high plausibility within the recipient brain. We further use this shared space to segment spontaneous activity into discrete brain states and we quantify their Markovian transition statistics. Remarkably, these state-to-state dynamics are stereotyped across individuals, suggesting that spontaneous activity reflects intrinsic computational priors of neural processing. Together, these results demonstrate how probabilistic generative modeling can bridge individual variability and reveal conserved organizational principles of vertebrate brains. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.*

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Call for Papers: "Spiking Neural Networks at Scale" in Frontiers in Neuroscience
by Wei Fang Nov. 2, 2025

Nov. 2, 2025

Dear colleagues: I am glad to tell you that the following research topic is now open for submissions in /Frontiers in Neuroscience/: Spiking Neural Networks at Scale: Learning Algorithms, Architectures, and Real-World Applications Refer to this link for more details: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/74585/spiking-neural-networks-a… Please feel free to submit your article by 24 Dec 2025. -- ----------------------- Wei Fang Postdoc, Electrical & Computer Engineering Yale University, USA

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Collaborate with the International Brain Laboratory
by Nick Steinmetz Oct. 31, 2025

Oct. 31, 2025

Dear colleagues - The International Brain Laboratory <https://www.internationalbrainlab.com/> is entering a new phase. We have completed our "Brain-wide Map <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09235-0>" of neural activity during a complex behavior, alongside detailed studies of the reproducibility of neural <https://elifesciences.org/articles/100840> and behavioral <https://elifesciences.org/articles/63711> data and the development of new methods <https://www.nature.com/articles/s41592-022-01742-6> and visualizations <https://viz.internationalbrainlab.org/app> for large-scale datasets, as well as many scientific studies <https://www.internationalbrainlab.com/publications>. Now, the IBL seeks to broaden access to its tools, pipelines, and methodologies to new research groups. You can now collaborate with the IBL on your own project: we aim to bring our approaches to new large-scale projects and we are looking for new partners! We can help with your Neuropixels recordings, multiphoton imaging, data processing, visualisation, data management, and more. Or, we can support work that you want to do using IBL's existing public data, for example if it requires running new large-scale analyses of those data that you need help with. These services are free to you, thanks to generous funding from the Simons Foundation, and provided by our world-class team of expert staff. Learn more and apply, with a short 2-page proposal, at: www.internationalbrainlab.com/ibl-core-apply Applications deadline now extended to Nov 8! Nick Steinmetz -- Associate Professor Department of Neurobiology & Biophysics University of Washington, Seattle www.steinmetzlab.net

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The recording of the VVTNS sixth season opening talk (Andrew Barto, October 29, 2025) is now available online
by David Hansel Oct. 31, 2025

Oct. 31, 2025

[image: VVTNS.png] > > <https://streaklinks.com/BT7ApM4NDVkoziHWhQptf9sP/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > https://www.wwtns.online > <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide - on Youtube > The VVTNS sixth season opening talk delivered on October 29, 2025 by Andrew Barto University of Massachusetts, Amherst on the topic What is So Interesting About Reinforcement Learning? is now available https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2025-2026 <https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2022-2023> *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* April, 13, 2022 ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ ᐧ --------------------------------------- David Hansel Directeur de Recherche au CNRS Co-Group leader Cerebral Dynamics Plasticity and Learning lab., CNRS 45 rue des Saints Peres 75270 Paris Cedex 06 Tel (Cell): +33 607508403 - Fax (33).1.49.27.90.62

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Call for papers – Special Issue “Simulating Developmental Neurobiology”
by Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan Oct. 30, 2025

Oct. 30, 2025

Dear Colleagues, Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience is running a Research Topic, [“Simulating Developmental Neurobiology,”](https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/71541/simulatin… and invites submissions that advance computational modeling of neural development. This special issue, accessible to the global community, will gather multidisciplinary contributions. Scope of Interest We welcome original research articles, methodological papers, and concise reviews addressing, but not limited to, the following topics: - Computational models of neurogenesis, migration, and differentiation. - Multi-scale simulations linking molecular pathways to tissue dynamics. - Activity-dependent plasticity and circuit formation in development. - Integration of imaging, electrophysiology, and omics in modeling. - Novel algorithms or tools for modeling developmental processes. - Validation studies comparing models and empirical data. The submission deadline is 29 January 2026. Submission Procedure - Access the Research Topic [page](https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/71541/simulating-developm…: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/71541/simulating-developmental-… - Click “Submit Your Manuscript.” - Select the appropriate article type (Original Research, Methods, or Review). - Ensure that “Simulating Developmental Neurobiology” is chosen as the Research Topic during the submission process. All submissions will undergo rigorous peer review while benefiting from Frontiers’ transparent review model. On behalf of the topic editors of Simulating Developmental NeurobiologyRuben Tikidji-Hamburyan --- Ruben A. Tikidji-Hamburyan, Ph.D. Senior Research Scientist Department of Physiology & Pharmacology School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University Washington, DC 20052, USA e-mail: rath(a)gwu.edu

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International Conference on Neural Information Processing (ICONIP) 2025, Nov. 20-24 at OIST
by Kenji Doya Oct. 30, 2025

Oct. 30, 2025

The 32nd International Conference on Neural Information Processing (ICONIP) 2025 is starting on November 20th at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST). Here is an update: • The main conference is in-person, single-track format. Registration includes online access to >400 papers in Spring LNCS and CCIS. • Tutorials can be joined in-person or online. Registration allows access to recordings of all tutorials. • Registrations for the banquet, childcare, shuttle bus, etc. will close on October 31st (AoE). • Open Forum on AI Agents and Human Society is organized for dialogue with local citizens and students. Please visit the web https://iconip2025.apnns.org and register. We hope to see many of you in beautiful Okinawa. ***** The 32nd International Conference on Neural Information Processing (ICONIP) 2025 Date: November 20 to 24, 2025 Venue: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST): https://www.oist.jp Web site: https://iconip2025.apnns.org Honorary Chairs: Shun-ichi Amari, Kunihiko Fukushima Keynote Lectures: Jun Tani (OIST): Development of Higher Cognitive Mechanisms: Insights From Neurorobotics Yew Soon Ong (NTU): Closing the gap: From Digital AI to Physically grounded intelligence Asako Kanezaki (IST): Machine Learning for Robots: From Perception to Action Tutorials: Taiji Suzuki (U Tokyo): Mathematical Theories of Deep Foundation Models Takuya Isomura (RIKEN): Free-energy Principle for AI Researchers and Neuroscientists Saori Tanaka (ATR, NAIST), Okito Yamashita (ATR, RIKEN), Yu Takagi (NIT): AI for Human Neuroscience Research Maryam Doborjeh, Nikola Kasabov (AUT): Improved Explainability with Spiking Neural Networks Yoshimasa Tawatsuji, Hiroshi Yamakawa, Yudai Suzuki (U Tokyo): Methodology for Designing Brain-Like AI Software Special Sessions: Sustainable Smart Villages – Harnessing Edge AI and TinyML for Low-Resource Communities Generative AI and Deep Learning for Advancing Affective Human-Robot Interaction Reliable, Robust and Secure Machine Learning Algorithms and 5 more Workshops: 18th International Workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity (AICS 2025) Quantifying and Simulating Multi-Neuromodulatory Dynamics in the Biological Brain and 5 more Open Forum: Society of Humans and AI Agents (in Japanese with English transcript) Yutaro Yamada (Sakana AI) Mizuki Oka (Chiba Tech, Artificial Life Institue) and other panelists General Chairs: Kenji Doya, Maryam Doborjeh Program Chairs: Tadahiro Taniguchi, Andrew Chi Sing Leung Inquiry: iconip2025(a)apnns.org ---- Kenji Doya <doya(a)oist.jp> Neural Computation Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan Phone: +81-98-966-8594; Fax: +81-98-966-2891 https://www.oist.jp/ncu

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2-year PostDoc position AI perception and control for robotics
by Bernabé Linares Barranco Oct. 30, 2025

Oct. 30, 2025

*2-year PostDoc position in Spain (Barcelona and Sevilla):* The Institute of Informatic and Industrial Robotics in Barcelona (http://www.iri.csic.es) and the Sevilla Microelectronics Institute (http://www.imse-cnm.csic.es) offer a joint MSCA Post-Doctoral 2-year fellowship for conducting cutting-edge AI research focused on exploring Spiking Neural Networks for AI systems in robotics perception and control. More details are available at: http://www2.imse-cnm.csic.es/neuromorphs/data/_uploaded/file/postdoc_IMSE-I… Interested candidates please contact: teresa.serrano(a)csic.es --

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Join COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025 – Explore the Full Program & Register Now
by Hocine Cherifi Oct. 30, 2025

Oct. 30, 2025

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to invite you to participate to *COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025* in *Binghamton, New York, USA*, from *December 9 to 11, 2025*. The *final program* is now available: 📄 *Program Download:* [ https://drive.google.com/file/d/18s7apg46PBZCvu2YJg7P6IABoqLCWsNm/view?usp=… ] <https://drive.google.com/file/d/18s7apg46PBZCvu2YJg7P6IABoqLCWsNm/view?usp=…> 🌐 Also accessible soon on https://complexnetworks.org <https://complexnetworks.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com> This year’s conference will feature: 🎓 *Tutorials (December 8):* · *Yian Yin* (Cornell University): *Toward a Quantitative Understanding of Failure* · *Brennan Klein* (Northeastern University): *Networks, Shapes, Maps, and More* 🎤 *Keynote Speakers (December 9–11):* · *Kimberley Glass* (Harvard Medical School): *Network Modeling for Precision Medicine* · *Mark Newman* (University of Michigan): *Networks and Ranking in Sports, Markets, and Society* · *Michelle Girvan* (University of Maryland): *Meta-Learning with Reservoir Networks: Forecasting Complex Systems from Limited Data* · *Luis Bettencourt* (University of Chicago): *The Networks of Cities: From Complex Infrastructure to Human Development* · *David Stark* (Columbia University): *“This is not a Test!”: Testing After Preparedness* In addition to these highlights, the program includes *three full days of oral, lightning, and poster sessions* covering all aspects of *network science, computational social science, and machine learning on graphs*, along with *networking events* such as the Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. 👉 *Register now:* [https://complexnetworks.org/registration/] <https://complexnetworks.org/registration/> We look forward to welcoming you in *Binghamton* this December for an inspiring and collaborative edition of COMPLEX NETWORKS. Best regards, *Hocine Cherifi* General Co-Chair – Complex Networks 2025 📍 https://complexnetworks.org <https://complexnetworks.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com> Join us at COMPLEX NETWORKS 2025 <https://complexnetworks.org/> *-------------------------* Hocine CHERIFI University of Burgundy Franche-Comté Laboratoire* I*nterdisciplinaire *C*arnot de *B*ourgogne - ICB UMR 6303 CNRS Editor in Chief Applied Network Science <https://appliednetsci.springeropen.com/> Plos Complex Systems <https://plos.org/complex-systems-research-journal/#:~:text=PLOS%20Complex%2….> Editorial Board member PLOS One <https://journals.plos.org/plosone/>, IEEE ACCESS <https://ieeeaccess.ieee.org/?http%3A%2F%2Fieeeaccess_ieee_org%2F>, Scientific Reports <https://www.nature.com/srep/>, Journal of Imaging <https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jimaging>, Quality and Quantity <https://www.springer.com/journal/11135/>, Computational Social Networks <https://computationalsocialnetworks.springeropen.com/>, Complex Systems <https://www.complex-systems.com/> Evolutionary Intelligence <https://link.springer.com/journal/12065>

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CRCNS 2025: Registration closes tomorrow at midnight!
by Garrison Cottrell Oct. 29, 2025

Oct. 29, 2025

Hi folks - Sorry for the late notice, as registration is going to close tomorrow, but even if you are not funded by the *NSF Collaborative Research in Computational Neuroscience program,* you are welcome to attend our PI's meeting, just prior to the SfN meeting, November 13th and 14th on the UCSD campus. The tentative meeting schedule is here <https://inc.ucsd.edu/events/crcns/2025/program.php>, and registration is here <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?event…>. Keynote speakers are Terry Sejnowski and Bruno Olshausen. cheers, Gary Cottrell

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Postdoctoral Fellowships at Yale's Wu Tsai Institute (Deadline Nov 10)
by Dan Levenstein Oct. 28, 2025

Oct. 28, 2025

The Wu Tsai Postdoctoral Fellowships <https://wti.yale.edu/initiatives/postdoctoral> are now open to applications. Please share this email with early-career scientists interested in interdisciplinary research to advance fundamental understanding of cognition. The program offers a generous stipend for up to 3 years, discretionary funds and additional funding opportunities, access to cutting-edge facilities, protected time and programmatic opportunities for professional development, and a welcoming and inclusive community of trainees. International applicants are welcome. Applicants may propose to be co-mentored by Wu Tsai Faculty Members from different disciplines; work with single mentors while transitioning to a new field; or propose self-directed computational or theoretical projects with flexible mentoring arrangements. Candidates are encouraged to reach out to any of the over 180 Wu Tsai Faculty Members <https://wti.yale.edu/humans/faculty>. The deadline for applications is November 10. Candidates can find more information, past awardees, and application instructions here: https://wti.yale.edu/initiatives/postdoctoral Feel free to forward this email and encourage scientists who might be interested to apply. For questions, please contact wti(a)yale.edu <mailto:wti@yale.edu>.

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[Meetings] [CFP] Call for Submission: NeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition @ Neuroscience 2025
by NeuroDesign in HRI Oct. 28, 2025

Oct. 28, 2025

Dear Colleagues, We hope this information finds you well and aligns with your interests. Are you developing a human-interactive robot, a wearable system, or a neuro-inspired interface? Do you have a prototype, an early-stage concept, or a compelling study that reimagines the future of human-machine interaction? Thank you once again for your interest in participating in the NeuroDesign in Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) Student Competition (previously with IEEE RO-MAN 2025). We truly appreciate your continued enthusiasm and support! 🌟 We're thrilled to announce an exciting new update! The NeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition has been scheduled again as a “Hybrid” event (online + onsite), co-located with Neuroscience 2025 ( https://www.sfn.org/meetings/neuroscience-2025) in San Diego on November 19, 2025. This unique showcase welcomes undergraduate, master's, and PhD students to present their innovative work and engage in live, cross-disciplinary dialogue with an international jury of experts from * Human-Robot Interaction * Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) * Cognitive Neuroscience & Psychology * Wearable and Soft Robotics * Design, Arts & Human-Centered Engineering * AI, Innovation, and Startups Whether your project is a concept, a working prototype, or an exploratory study, we are excited to see how it challenges conventional boundaries and contributes to the evolution of neuroadaptive, engaging, and socially impactful technologies. 📤 Final Submission Deadline: Monday, November 10, 2025 If you missed the chance to participate last time — no worries! 🎉 You're warmly invited to submit your entry by including the following materials to secure your 5-minute pitch spot: (1) Project Title (necessary) (2) Abstract (~100 words) (necessary) (3) Choose One of the following (choose one) (necessary): 🎥 A 1–2 minute video overview, or 🖼️ 5 informative slides, or 📄 A 2-page write-up (IEEE RAS format preferred) You can submit your materials directly through our Google Form: 👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHr36BmtfTxLbjHSmiY1CYapUiZPXHgsn… —or simply reply to the email (✉️ neurodesign.hri(a)gmail.com) with your materials attached (or share access links). 🏆 Awards & Recognition For full details on all awards and recognitions, please see here: 🔗 https://www.neurodesign-hri.ws/2025#competition-guidelines Highlights include: 🧠 Best Innovation in HRI NeuroDesign (3 awards) – up to €500 EUR ❤️ Most Popular Project Award (2 awards) – including a full APC waiver for Frontiers in Robotics and AI 🎁 Lucky Draw Prizes (5 prizes) and certificates for all finalists 💯 100% award opportunity – all 10 finalists will receive recognition! ✨ Prizes are doubled compared to the previous call! 📅 Key Dates 🔺 Final Submission Deadline: November 10, 2025 🔺 Event Date: November 19, 2025 (San Diego & Online) Join us in shaping the future of human-machine synergy—where your creativity fuels the innovation of tomorrow. We look forward to celebrating your ideas and visionary work! With warm regards, The NeuroDesign in Human-Robot Interaction Team NeuroDesign in HRI Student EXPO & Competition Co-located with Neuroscience 2025

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PhD student positions in computational neuroscience / machine learning / bioinformatics
by Philipp Berens Oct. 27, 2025

Oct. 27, 2025

We are hiring two PhD student for machine learning projects about (1) spatial transcriptomics in the retina and (2) using biophysical modeling to understand energy consumption in the retina! In project (1), we want to better understand how neurons in the retina change their function and genetics over time. During your PhD, you will develop novel probabilistic models for cutting-edge data acquired in collaboration with Thomas Euler and Shahar Alon. As an ideal candidate, you are curious about open questions in neuroscience, and passionate about using your datascience skills to merge these data with previous datasets across modalities (Calcium imaging, spatial transcriptomics, single-cell transcriptomics) to get to novel insights about the retina and the visual system. https://jobs.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/Job/6816/PhD-student-in-bioinformatic… In project (2), we want to use biophysical modeling to understand energy consumption in the retinaand integrate the resulting models with a deep reinforcement learning framework! The project will allow you to work with cutting-edge differentiable simulator for understanding principles of neural coding. This PhD is part of aDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - German Research Foundation <https://www.linkedin.com/company/deutsche-forschungsgemeinschaft/>-funded iRTG "limits2vision" (https://limits2vision.net/ <https://limits2vision.net/>) betweenUniversity of Tübingen <https://www.linkedin.com/company/eberhard-karls-universit-t-t-bingen/>andUniversité Paris-Sorbonne <https://www.linkedin.com/company/lettres-sorbonne-universite/>. https://jobs.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de/Job/6831/PhD-student-computational-ne… Both post will be filled as soon as possible. -- Professor of Data Science, Director Hertie Institute for AI in Brain Health Medical Faculty of the University of Tübingen www.hertie.ai

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Meetings - 2026 Nengo Summer School Call For Applications
by Madeleine Bartlett Oct. 27, 2025

Oct. 27, 2025

Dear colleagues, All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce our 11th annual Nengo summer school on large-scale brain modelling and neuromorphic computing. This two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Summer school participants will be given on-site access to neuromorphic hardware and will learn to run high-level applications using Nengo! More generally, Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun, which includes spiking deep learning, reinforcement learning, adaptive motor control, and cognitive control networks. For a look at the last in-person summer school, check out this short video: https://youtu.be/hHwIryt053M?si=N70eVlC3Sm_2sDy5 We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. ***Application Deadline: December 22nd, 2026*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, creating models to account for neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: * interface Nengo with various kinds of neuromorphic hardware (e.g. BrainDrop, SpiNNaker) * build perceptual, motor, and sophisticated cognitive models using spiking neurons * build models to account for anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data * use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model  * integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models * interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems * implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models * neurally implement vector symbolic architecture algorithms * and much more… Date and Location: May 31st to June 12th, 2026 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summer-school, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact: Madeleine Bartlett: madeleine.bartlett(a)uwaterloo.ca<mailto:madeleine.bartlett@uwaterloo.ca> Kathryn Simone: kpsimone(a)uwaterloo.ca<mailto:kpsimone@uwaterloo.ca> The school is partly supported by ABR, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you! Maddy she/her Postdoctoral Fellow University of Waterloo email: m2bartle(a)uwaterloo.ca

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Ph.D. position in event-based computing / spiking networks at Champalimaud, Lisbon
by Christian Machens Oct. 27, 2025

Oct. 27, 2025

PhD position in computational neuroscience (event-based computing / spiking networks) As part of a Marie-Curie Doctoral Network (ELEVATE <https://www.elevate-dn.eu/index.php/about/>), we are offering a PhD student position. The proposed project sits a the interface of computational neuroscience and neuromorphic computing, and is embedded within a strong network of European academic and industrial partners. ENVIRONMENT: The student will be part of the Theoretical Neuroscience lab <https://www.machenslab.org/>, led by Christian Machens, which is hosted at the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown in Lisbon, Portugal. The Champalimaud Foundation <https://www.fchampalimaud.org/> is a private, non-profit institute with a vibrant and highly international academic community. Many groups work in the field of systems and computational neuroscience, <https://www.fchampalimaud.org/champalimaud-research> providing a stimulating and exciting work environment. The student will also interact with the training network ELEVATE <https://www.elevate-dn.eu/index.php/about/> and spend several months at Rodolphe Sepulchre <https://sites.google.com/site/rsepulchre/>‘s lab at KU Leuven, Belgium. PROJECT: Across the animal world, biological networks are made up of different types of neurons. The most prominent division is that between excitatory (E) and inhibitory (I) neurons. However, modern AI system as well as most neuromorphic systems ignore this division and assume only one type of neuron. In this project, we will study the specific functional or structural qualities arising from a division into E and I neurons, and work out any potential benefits. One key design feature of networks with E and I neurons is that they are composed of intrinsically unstable subsystems, namely recurrently connected E neurons, that are controlled and stabilized by other subsystems, namely I neurons. The benefits of designing and controlling intrinsically unstable systems have long been known to engineers in other context, e.g., the desing of modern fighter aircraft. The goal of this project is to use some of these engineering insights in order to investigate how the interplay of excitation and inhibition can be utilized to perform specific computations. Since real neurons communicate with discrete events (spikes), a key aim is to work out the distinct computational roles of inhibitory and excitatory spikes, and apply the concepts to a few example systems. TASKS: * Study the relevant background literature from both engineering and neuroscience fields. Based on geometric and analytical insights from the framework of ‘spike coding networks’, develop analytical or geometric methods to study the roles of excitatory and inhibitory spikes. Develop a few canonical systems and use numerical simulations to demonstrate the role of excitatory and inhibitory populations in computational tasks. * Publish research articles, regular participation in top international conferences to present your work. * Complete an internship at KU Leuven with Prof. Rodolphe Sepulchre * Participate in yearly retreats organized by the doctoral network participants * Support the dissemination of software tools and concepts. SALARY AND CONDITIONS: The salary and benefits will follow standard EU rules. PhD students will receive their degree from the NOVA University of Lisbon. APPLICATION: We are looking for a candidate with strong quantitative skills (e.g., degree in physics, computer science, engineering, etc.) and curiosity about how the brain works. Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV, a cover letter explaining their interest in the position (1 page), a transcript for their BSc and Msc, and the contact information of 2 references to christian.machens(a)neuro.fchampalimaud.org. The application process will remain open until the position is filled. We strive to build a diverse work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals irrespective of their gender, age, cultural background, and disability status. Only candidates shortlisted for this position will be contacted for an interview. STARTING DATE: We anticipate a start in the year 2026. The earliest starting date is January 1st, 2026.

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World wide VVTNS series: Sixth season opening lecture, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11:00 am EDT - Andrew Barto
by David Hansel Oct. 26, 2025

Oct. 26, 2025

*Important:* The seminar is at 11 am *EDT* Europe moved to Winter Time on Sunday, October 26, 2025 US will move to Winter Time next Sunday, November 2 This week 11 am EDT= 4pm CET Check the time where you are [image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the sixth season opening lecture of the online VVTNS series Andrew Barto University of Massachusetts Amherst on the topic of What is So Interesting About Reinforcement Learning? The lecture will be held on zoom on October 29, 2025, at *11:00 am EDT * > To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page > > *Abstract: *This talk aims to answer these questions along four dimensions. First is history. RL was the basis of AI long before the term AI was introduced in 1956. The first machine learning (ML) systems were based on RL even before digital computers existed. Despite notable early successes of ML based on RL, RL essentially disappeared from ML until relatively recently. A second reason for renewed interest in RL is the clarification of some misunderstandings that have been prevalent in the ML community. A third, and most important, reason for this resurgence is that new, or rediscovered, algorithms and connections to well developed mathematical and engineering methods have been worked out. Finally, a fourth reason for the renewed interest in RL is its strong links to animal reward systems, in particular, to the role that dopamine plays in motivation and learning. *About VVTNS : Launched as the World Wide Theoretical Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), Speakers have the occasion to talk about theoretical aspects of their work which cannot be discussed in a setting where the majority of the audience consists of experimentalists. The seminars, **held on Wednesdays at 11 am ET,** are 45-50 min long followed by a discussion. The talks are recorded with authorization of the speaker and are available to everybody on our YouTube channel.* ᐧ

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Open PhD and Postdoc position at El-Boustani Lab (University of Geneva, Switzerland)
by sami_elboustani＠msn.com Oct. 21, 2025

Oct. 21, 2025

The El-Boustani Lab at the University of Geneva (Switzerland) is looking for a highly motivated PhD student and Postdoctoral fellow to research the plasticity mechanisms underlying the learning of goal-directed sensorimotor associations in mice. This project involves whole-brain mappings, two-photon calcium imaging of neuronal populations, as well as dendritic spine imaging in mice during the acquisition of perceptual decision-making tasks. Genetically encoded tools will be used to dissect the circuits that contribute to the learning of these tasks, and state-of-the-art behavioral modeling will help infer the timescale and nature of synaptic plasticity. Successful applicant will contribute to a research program focused on understanding how changes in specific sensorimotor synapses underpin the acquisition of new associations. We welcome applicants with diverse quantitative backgrounds, including but not limited to neuroscience, mathematics, physics, and engineering. We are especially interested in applicants with excellent programming skills (e.g., MATLAB, Python), experience with mouse behavior and imaging techniques in vivo. Switzerland offers a vibrant neuroscience community with outstanding research conditions and attractive salaries. Candidates should send their CV, at least two references and a brief cover letter describing their previous work and future goals to Sami El-Boustani: sami.el-boustani(a)unige.ch. Please visit http://elboustani-lab.org/ for more details.

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