- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

REMINDER: Adam Tyson: Software Tools for Systems Neuroscience @ INCF/OCNS Software WG session on 9th July, 1500 UTC

by Ankur Sinha

Dear all, A reminder of tomorrow's session: ----------------------------------------------------- Dear all, Apologies for the cross posts. Please do spread the word to interested colleagues. Adam Tyson from the Neuroinformatics Unit at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre will talk about the software tools that their group develops at the next INCF/OCNS Software Working Group (WG) session on July 09 at 1500 UTC. There will be a Q&A/discussion session after the presentation, followed by any WG business. Please find the abstract and joining information below: - When: July 9, 1500 UTC - Where: Zoom: https://ucl.zoom.us/j/91017703246?pwd=RmdwMW9xL0FFaFVVL0Z6dUtnbkplZz09 - Web page: https://ocns.github.io/SoftwareWG/2024/06/26/wg-meeting-9-july-2024-softwar… Abstract: Understanding the brain requires processing and analysing large, multidimensional datasets. Systems neuroscience, in particular, has undergone a drastic transformation, with individual labs now commonly generating terabytes or even petabytes of data annually. While there has been an increase in software tools to process this data, many of these tools are single-purpose, inadequately maintained, or poorly integrated with the broader software ecosystem. This talk will outline some of the tools we are developing for computational neuroanatomy, video behavioural analysis, and data management. About the speaker: Adam Tyson is the Head Research Engineer at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre and Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit at University College London. He established the Neuroinformatics Unit, a research software engineering team dedicated to developing robust, maintainable, and user-friendly software tools for neuroscience and machine learning. Adam completed a PhD in neuroscience at King's College London before working as a software developer at the Institute of Cancer Research and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. Resources/links: - BrainGlobe: https://brainglobe.info/ - Movement: https://movement.neuroinformatics.dev/ - NeuroBluePrint: https://neuroblueprint.neuroinformatics.dev/ - Neuroinformatics Unit: https://neuroinformatics.dev/ - Sainsbury Wellcome Centre: https://www.sainsburywellcome.org/web/ - Gatsby Computational Neuroscience: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/gatsby-computational-neuroscience-unit On behalf of the WG, -- Thanks, Regards, Ankur Sinha (He / Him / His) | https://ankursinha.in Research Fellow at the Silver Lab, University College London | http://silverlab.org/ Free/Open source community volunteer at the NeuroFedora project | https://neuro.fedoraproject.org Time zone: Europe/London

July 8, 2024

Online Vocational Training and Internship: Python programing and Hypothesis Testing

by PRANAV NERURKAR

Dear colleagues, Apologies for the cross posts. Please spread the word to interested colleagues. Greetings Hope you are doing well. We are launching an internship. Registration: https://internships.utkarshminds.com/ In summary this two months internship has: 1. Students will experience advanced data analysis and work on 25 projects 2. After completion they can get a internship completion certificate 3. They can add in their resume and increase chances of getting a job 4. Only a one time fee of Rs. 99 (USD 2/EURO 2) *Description:* This internship is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to become an Applied Python Developer. You will learn how to write efficient Python code, work with data structures, handle file operations, and build real-world applications using Python. *Key Highlights:* 1. Experience writing efficient Python code 2. Master data structures and algorithms in Python 3. Build real-world applications with Python *What you will experience:* 1. Write Efficient Python Code 2. Experience best practices for writing clean, readable, and efficient Python code 3. Data Structures and Algorithms 4. Master essential data structures and algorithms in Python for effective problem solving 5. Build Real-world Applications 6. Apply your Python skills to build practical applications and projects Regards *Pranav A. NERURKAR* Specialist - AI & Data science UTKARSH MINDS +91 961-999-77-97 pranav.nerurkar@ <amandine.deplantes(a)igonogo.io>utkarshminds.com www.utkarshminds.com Nirmala Sadan, Jaya Nagar, Kasturba cross road no. 1, Mumbai - 400066

July 8, 2024

[Call for Abstracts] - 3rd International Conference on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (3ICEAI) (19-25 September 2024)

by steven gouveia

[Call for Abstracts] 3rd International Conference on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (3ICEAI) University of Azores, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island, Azores 19-25 September 2024 (19-20 Online, 23-25 in-person) About: The third edition of this conference will be organized into two distinct segments. The first segment, scheduled for September 19-20, 2024, will be conducted exclusively online, featuring virtual presentations. The second segment, taking place from September 23-25, 2024, will consist solely of in-person sessions. ETHICS OF AI AWARD 2024 (in-person talks only): The best-submitted abstract will receive the opportunity to deliver a special Award Talk similar to a keynote talk (note: the selected author will have the fee waived). Previous winner (2023): Dr. Cristina Voinea (The Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, Uni. Oxford). We're also proud to announce a publication partnership with Palgrave Macmillan. Selected papers presented at the conference will be considered (following a peer-review process) for inclusion in the Palgrave Handbook of the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, which will be edited by Steven S. Gouveia. The community is invited to submit proposals in different research fields until August 1st, 2024. KEYNOTES SPEAKERS: * Sabina Leonelli holds the Chair of Philosophy and History of Science and Technology at the Technical University of Munich, where she is also Research Director of the Ethical Data Initiative. * Pekka Mäkelä is an is a Research Coordinator in the Helsinki Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities (HSSH) at the University of Helsinki and the co-leader of the RADAR Group. * Ariane Hanemaayer is an Associate Professor at Brandon University, Canada, in the departments of Sociology and Gender and Women's Studies, and Affiliate Scholar at the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science. * Raul Hakli is a university researcher in practical philosophy and co-leader of the RADAR group. * Eleanor Drage is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence. * Hasse Hämäläinen is AI Scientist at Mehiläinen, holding a PhD in Philosophy in Philosophy from the University of Edinburgh. * Veridiana Cordeiro is a sociologist, a Professor at the Department of Sociology at the University of São Paulo, and a research fellow at the Center for Artificial Intelligence (IBM-Sao Paulo Research Foundation). Topics might include (but are not limited to): 1. Algorithmic Fairness and Bia 2. Privacy and Data Protection 3. Transparency and Explainability 4. Accountability and Responsibility 5. Human Rights and Social Justice 6. AI in Healthcare 7. AI in Autonomous Systems 8. Ethical Frameworks and Guidelines 9. AI and Decision-Making 10. Ethics of AI in Public Policy 11. AI and Environmental Ethics 12. Ethical Education and Awareness 13. AI in the Workplace 14. Global Perspectives on AI Ethics 15. Emerging Ethical Issues in AI 16. AI, Aesthetics and Cinema 17. Other topics related. FEES: * Professionals (posdoc, professor, tenure-track): € 160,00 * Students: (Master, PhD): € 110,00 Languages of the colloquium: English and Portuguese. SUBMISSIONS: * IMPORTANT: you should clearly state if you are submitting for the online segment (OS) (19-20 September) or the in-person segment (PS) (23-25 September). If (OS), you need to provide a preferred time schedule considering the Azores Time Zone (UTC - 1 hour). In-person submissions have a higher chance of being accepted (more slots available); * Proposals should include two files: (in word. format): (1) a cover page with identification, academic affiliation, and title (2) an anonymized title and abstract (maximum 250 words) and sent to interconfethicsofai(a)gmail.com * Paper duration: 30 minutes (20 minutes presentation + 10 minutes for discussion); * Information: in order to facilitate the request for funding of the accepted talks so speakers can prepare their travel in advance, notification of acceptance or rejection will be given in a 7-10 days period after the submission is submitted (and reviewed); * Papers presented at the colloquium are expected to be published in several projects (volumes, special issues, etc.) (this is optional - more information after the end of the conference); * Any doubts or concerns can be addressed to: interconfethicsofai(a)gmail.com Venue: University of Azores | Address: Rua da Mãe de Deus, 9500-321 Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Açores. Organization: Mind, Language and Action Group | Institute of Philosophy | University of Porto Center for Humanistic Studies | University of the Azores Organizing Committee Steven S. Gouveia (Chair) Rui Sampaio da Silva (Local Organizer) Sofia Miguens Jaroslav Malík Romeu Ivolela Liberty Severs Support: CEEC Project by FCT 2022.02527.CEECIND TL Modern & Contemporary Philosophy RG Mind, Language and Action Group (MLAG) Instituto de Filosofia da Universidade do Porto – UIDB/00502/2020 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) Reitoria da Universidade do Porto + Center for Humanistic Studies University of the Azores

July 4, 2024

Reminder: PhD-Researcher and Lecturer, Neurocomputation of Language, Tilburg University (1.0 fte, six years)

by Harm Brouwer

Reminder, the deadline (July 21st) is approaching for the following position: PhD-Researcher and Lecturer, Neurocomputation of Language, Department of Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence, Tilburg University (1.0 fte, six years) The Neurocomputation of Language (NCL) lab from the Department of Cognitive Science & Artificial Intelligence (CSAI) at Tilburg University invites applications for a 6-year position. The successful applicant for this position would spend 60% of their time as a PhD student and 40% as a lecturer. The PhD project would be determined by the successful applicant and the lab director but should employ advanced statistical modeling and/or neurocomputational modeling to address one or more of the core themes of the lab: the nature and time course of language comprehension, the neural representation and computation of meaning, and the cortical organization of the language network. The educational tasks of the candidate could include leading practical sessions, grading assignments and exams, and (eventually) supervising thesis students. Requirements * Master’s degree in (computational) cognitive (neuro)science, neurobiology of language, or a related field. If you expect to obtain your degree before August 2024, you are also eligible. * Good knowledge of statistics and machine learning (practical experience with large language models is a plus). * Excellent knowledge of English and good academic writing skills. What we offer * A full-time position. * The selected candidate will receive a contract for six years. * You will receive a temporary employment contract for the duration of 12 months. A 5-year extension is offered upon a positive assessment. After one year your UFO profile will change to PhD Candidate / Lecturer. In the second year your initial education assignment is 40% and your research assignment is 60%. * A minimum gross salary of €3226- per month up to a maximum of € 4036- in the 6th year. For the duration of 12 months, you are entitled to a allowance. The amount is the difference in salary of scale 10 level 0 and scale PR level 0. * A holiday allowance of 8% and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3% (annually). * Researchers from outside the Netherlands may qualify for a tax-free allowance equal to 30% of their taxable salary (the 30% tax regulation). The University will apply for such an allowance on their behalf. Note that the 30% rule will be scaled back from 1 January 2024. For new applications, during a five-year term, the scheme will gradually decrease to a 10% rule. More specifically, this means that during the first 20 months of the term, 30% of the salary will be reimbursed untaxed. In the next 20 months, this percentage drops to 20% and during the last 20 months, the untaxed reimbursement is 10% of the salary. * Assistance in finding accommodation (for foreign employees). * Benefits such as an options model for terms and conditions of employment and reimbursement of moving expenses, also including excellent technical infrastructure, savings schemes and excellent sports facilities. The collective labor agreement of the Dutch Universities applies. Information and application More detailed project information can be provided on request: please contact dr. Harm Brouwer (h.brouwer(a)tilburguniversity.edu<mailto:h.brouwer@tilburguniversity.edu>), PI of the Neurocomputation of Language lab. To apply, please submit: * a motivation letter in which you describe why you want to be considered for this position, and why you are the right person to do it; * a full curriculum vitae, demonstrating academic excellence, including publications (if applicable); academic transcripts of your Bachelor and Master’s degrees; * a sample of writing, such as your Master’s thesis or a relevant paper; * contact details of two academic referees. The only way to apply is online<https://career5.successfactors.eu/career?career%5fns=job%5flisting&company=…>. The first deadline for application is July 21, 2024, the position is open until filled. The starting date of this position is negotiable but preferably no later than October 1st, 2024. Neurocomputation of Language lab The Neurocomputational of Language (NCL) lab combines neurocomputational modeling with empirical experimentation to investigate the neural basis of language. Grounded in principles of neural information processing, and informed by empirical insights on the nature and time course of comprehension, our models aim to offer mechanistic explanations of how an interpretation is constructed in real time as spoken or written linguistic signal unfolds on a, more or less, word-by-word basis. See the lab website for more information: https://www.tilburguniversity.edu/about/schools/tshd/departments/dca/lab/ne… The department of Cognitive Science & Artificial Intelligence (CSAI) The Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence department (https://csai.nl/) at Tilburg University is part of the Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences. The department emphasizes innovative research spanning a wide array of fields including computational linguistics and language technology, data-science, human-robot interaction, virtual reality and serious games. CSAI is a member of the Benelux Association for Artificial Intelligence, participates in the Special Interest Group for AI (SIG AI), and also participates in the Confederation of Laboratories for Artificial Intelligence Research in Europe (CLAIRE). Tilburg University and the CSAI department offer a vibrant international environment, with current CSAI staff originating from more than 10 countries. Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences Research and education at the Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences (TSHD) has a unique focus on humans in the context of the globalizing digital society, on the development of artificial intelligence and interactive technologies, on their impact on communication, culture and society, and on moral and existential challenges that arise. The School of Humanities and Digital Sciences consists of four departments: Communication and Cognition, Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence, Culture Studies and Philosophy; several research institutes and a faculty office. Also the University College Tilburg is part of the School. Each year around 275 students commence a Bachelor or (Pre) Master Program. The School has approximately 2000 students and 250 employees. Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences<https://www.tilburguniversity.edu/about/schools/humanities/> Recruitment code Tilburg University applies the recruitmentcode<https://kmt.nvp-hrnetwerk.nl/download/?id=21374> of the Dutch Association for Personnel Management & Organization Development (NVP). Disclaimer The text of this vacancy advertisement is copyright-protected property of Tilburg University. Use, distribution and further disclosure of the advertisement without express permission from Tilburg University is not allowed, and this applies explicitly to use by recruitment and selection agencies which do not act directly on the instructions of Tilburg University. Responses resulting from recruitment by non-contractors of Tilburg Universities will not be handled. -- [ Dr. Harm Brouwer, Associate Professor [ Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence, Tilburg University [ E-mail: h.brouwer(a)tilburguniversity.edu<mailto:h.brouwer@tilburguniversity.edu> [ http://www.hbrouwer.eu/

July 3, 2024

Ph.D. position in Theoretical and Applied Neuroscience - Deadline 29th July 2024.

by Eleonora Russo

One Ph.D. position is available within the National Ph.D. Program in ‘Theoretical and Applied Neuroscience’. The Ph.D. will be held in the Brain Dynamics Lab<https://www.santannapisa.it/en/institute/biorobotics/brain-dynamics-laborat…> at the Biorobotics Institute of Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa (Italy) in collaboration with the Kelsch Group<http://www.synapticwiring.com/index.html> at the University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz (Germany). Information about the call can be found here<https://www.unicam.it/bandi/2024/bando-n0046958-del-28062024>. The deadline for applying to the position is at 13:00 on 29 July 2024. The project description can be found here<https://www.unicam.it/sites/default/files/bandi/2024/06/ANNEX%201_TAN_ciclo…> under ‘Code 4.2’. Project title: Functional modeling of brain dynamics: understanding reinforcement learning through the lens of dynamical systems. Keywords: neural coding, neuronal manifolds, modelling, dynamical system reconstruction, RNN, statistical mechanics, machine learning, reinforcement learning, dopamine. Host Institution: Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, BioRobotics Institute Reference person/supervisor: Russo Eleonora; eleonora.russo(a)santannapisa.it Research topic description Understanding the dynamical systems governing neuronal activity is crucial for unraveling how the brain performs cognitive functions. Historically, various forms of recurrent neural networks (RNNs) have been proposed as simplified models of the cortex. Recently, due to remarkable advancements in machine learning, RNNs' ability to capture temporal dependencies has been used to develop tools for approximating unknown dynamical systems by training them on observed time-series data. This approach allows us to use time series of electrophysiological multi-single unit recordings as well as whole brain ultra-high field functional imaging (fMRI) to parametrize neuronal population dynamics and build functional models of cognitive functions. The objective of this research project is to investigate the neuronal mechanisms underlying the reinforcement and depreciation of perceived stimuli in the extended network of the mouse forebrain regions. Research team and environment The PhD student will carry out his/her/their studies primarily at the BioRobotics Institute of Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies. The project will expose the student to a highly international and interdisciplinary context, in tight collaboration with theoretical and experimental neuroscientists in Italy and abroad. At the BioRobotics Institute, the research groups involved will be the Brain Dynamics Lab, the Computational Neuroengineering Lab, and the Bioelectronics and Bioengineering Area. Moreover, the project will be carried out in tight collaboration with the experimental group of Prof. Wolfgang Kelsch, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany. During the PhD, the student will have the opportunity to spend a period abroad. Preferred Research Skills and Competences The ideal candidate has a strong interest in neuroscience and a background in physics/math/biomedical engineering with computational and programming skills (ideally, knowledge of Matlab and/or Python). The ideal candidate carries out his/her/their work in a diligent, independent, and highly collaborative manner. The project will not require any experimental work. Best wishes, Eleonora Russo --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Eleonora Russo, Ph.D. PI of the Brain Dynamics Laboratory Assistant Professor at Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, The BioRobotics Institute, P.za Martiri della Liberta', 33 56127 Pisa, Italy

July 2, 2024

12th rTAIM Online Seminar | Francesco Prinzi (Uni. Palermo) | 24 July 2024 - 2pm Lisbon Time Zone | Zoom

by steven gouveia

Dear All, Following the 11th rTAIM Online Seminar (by Walter Sinnott-Armstrong, Duke University) available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL8fYl-I0d8, we are happy to announce the final seminar of this academic year, the 12th rTAIM Online Seminar, with the participation of Professor Francesco Prinzi (University of Palermo, IT), 24th July 2024, 14h-15h30 Lisbon Time Zone, via Zoom. Title: From Theory to Practice: Overcoming Challenges in Implementing AI-Based CDSSs in Healthcare Abstract: In recent years, the adoption of computer-assisted tools employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques has increased in several fields. These tools, which harness machine-learning and deep-learning architectures, have been pivotal in Medicine with the development of Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSSs). CDSSs are designed to assist clinicians in critical healthcare processes, where understanding the decision-making process and ensuring system reliability are paramount. Despite the potential of data-driven AI, its application in medicine remains fraught with challenges, including the creation of high-performing yet non-interpretable CDSSs. Consequently, only a few CDSSs have transitioned from theoretical frameworks to clinical practice. Several factors hinder this transition: insufficient clinician involvement in data preparation, limited datasets, a lack of external validation, etc. The engagement of clinicians in model interpretation is crucial, as relying solely on accuracy metrics raises significant concerns about the models' validity. Regulatory agencies have responded by proposing frameworks and guidelines such as the GDPR and the AI Act to address concerns about applications of machine learning models. This presentation aims to elucidate these critical challenges and provide recommendations for implementing reliable CDSS. In particular, the discussion will focus on achieving explainability in AI models, highlighting the importance of transparent and interpretable results. The concept of Trustworthy AI is central to this integration, emphasizing that explainability, one of the key features in trustworthy AI, is essential for developers to technically validate results, for clinicians to align models with clinical literature, and for patients to understand the decisions. The presentation will cover methods to achieve explainability in both shallow and deep learning architectures, considering tabular and image inputs. Additionally, a new paradigm addressing the accuracy-explainability trade-off will be discussed, offering insights into future developments in this field. Short Bio: Francesco Prinzi received his Ph.D. in biomedicine, neuroscience and advanced diagnostics in 2023, University of Palermo. He is currently Assistant Professor at University of Palermo and affiliated with the Computer Laboratory of the University of Cambridge (UK). His research is focused on the development of diagnostic and predictive models through Machine Learning, Explainable Artificial Intelligence and Medical Imaging Analysis methods. Link: https://videoconf-colibri.zoom.us/j/93235662066?pwd=4JGunJeQskC2DOVbALXGu2P… ID Meeting: 932 3566 2066 Password: 761386 We are also happy to announce that the Call for Abstract for the 3rd International Conference on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence that will happen in the São Miguel Islands in the Azores (Portugal), between 19-25 September 2024 (online and in-person), is OPEN for submissions (notifications of acceptance/rejectance) are given in 7-10 days). Pending peer review/editorial board acceptance, some of the papers accepted at the 3ICEAI will be selected for inclusion in the Palgrave Handbook of the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, currently under development with Palgrave Macmillan. We will also have the ETHICS OF AI AWARD 2024 (in-person talks only): the best-submitted abstract will receive the opportunity to deliver a special Award Talk similar to a keynote talk (note: the selected author will have the fee waived). You can find the information related to the 3ICEAI here: https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/3iceai.html Organizer

July 2, 2024

Two postdoc positions in decision-making and learning at the University of Zurich, Switzerland

by mailinglists.4svr4＠simplelogin.com

Postdoc in neuroscience of reward learning The successful candidate will work with Prof. Todd Hare and other SNS Lab researchers on the neuro-computational basis of human learning and decision making using cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques. For example, the successful candidate will work on a project aimed to determine if reward learning and corresponding striatal responses incorporate causal knowledge during Pavlovian conditioning. Using theoretically grounded and empirically verified reward learning predictions – blocking, conditioned inhibition, and overexpectation – we will test how Pavlovian conditioning operates over stimuli that are known to be either causal generators or correlated predicters of reward outcomes. Knowledge of the causal mechanisms should, in principle, determine how a reward learning agent summates predictions over two or more conditioned stimuli and whether a specific conditioned inhibitor will block a given causal state. We will test these hypotheses using modified versions of the standard conditioned inhibition and overexpectation paradigms together with functional neuroimaging. The results of these studies will provide important new insights into the fundamental nature of reward learning. They will reveal if Pavlovian conditioning mechanisms, which are generally thought to be model-free, incorporate model-based knowledge of cause-and-effect relationships in the environment or if instead they remain agnostic about causality and operate via predictiveness alone. https://jobs.uzh.ch/offene-stellen/postdoc-in-neuroscience-of-reward-learni… Postdoc in physiology of learning and decision making The successful candidate will work with Prof. Todd Hare and other SNS Lab researchers on projects testing the dynamic interplay between decision-making and attention, arousal, memory, emotion regulation and executive functions. These studies will make use of eye-tracking, pupil dilation, cardiac and respiratory data in combination with behavioral paradigms, validated questionnaires, and computational modeling. The use of neuroimaging data (EEG, fMRI), pharmacological manipulations, or brain stimulation is also possible. https://jobs.uzh.ch/offene-stellen/postdoc-in-physiology-of-learning-and-de…

July 1, 2024

Postodoc Research Fellow Position at Birkbeck/UCL, London, UK

by Fabrizi, Lorenzo

Dear all, Please see below for a postdoctoral position at the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck University of London with Prof. Emily Jones (with co-I’s Dr Lorenzo Fabrizi at University College London and Dr Judith Meek at University College London Hospital). Postdoctoral Researcher at Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development (1864) - Birkbeck, University of London<https://cis7.bbk.ac.uk/vacancy/postdoctoral-researcher-at-centre-for-brain-…> cis7.bbk.ac.uk<https://cis7.bbk.ac.uk/vacancy/postdoctoral-researcher-at-centre-for-brain-…> The project will be examining sensory processing in infants born prematurely and later trajectories of neurodevelopment, using a variety of neurocognitive methods. Infants were recruited as neonates and the postholder will be leading and conducting the follow up visits (when the infant is 18 months). The post would suit someone who is interested in infant development, neurodevelopmental conditions and has experience with infant/toddler EEG and eye tracking. Closing date: 24th July, online interviews: 26th July Lorenzo Fabrizi, PhD Associate Professor 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)

July 1, 2024

Open PhD position at the University of Bern

by jeanpascal.pfister＠unibe.ch

The Theoretical Neuroscience Group of the University of Bern is seeking applications for a PhD position, funded by a Swiss National Science Foundation grant titled “Why Spikes?”. This project aims at answering a nearly century-old question in Neuroscience: “What are spikes good for?”. Indeed, since the discovery of action potentials by Lord Adrian in 1926, it has remained largely unknown what the benefits of spiking neurons are, when compared to analog neurons. Traditionally, it has been argued that spikes are good for long-distance communication or for temporally precise computation. However, there is no systematic study that quantitatively compares the communication as well as the computational benefits of spiking neuron w.r.t analog neurons. The aim of the project is to systematically quantify the benefits of spiking at various levels by developing and analyzing appropriate mathematical models. The PhD student will be supervised by Prof. Jean-Pascal Pfister (Theoretical Neuroscience Group, Department of Physiology, University of Bern). The project will involve close collaborations within a highly motivated team as well as regular exchange of ideas with the other theory groups at the institute. The PhD candidates should hold a Master degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Computational Neuroscience, Neuroscience or a related field. She/he should have keen interests in developing theories that can be tested experimentally. Preference will be given to candidates with strong mathematical and programming skills. Expertise in stochastic dynamical systems, point processes, control theory, information theory and nonlinear Bayesian filtering will be a plus. The applicant should submit a CV (including contacts of two referees), a statement of research interests, marks obtained for the Master, and the abstract of the Master thesis in electronic format to Jean-Pascal Pfister (jeanpascal.pfister(a)unibe.ch<mailto:jeanpascal.pfister@unibe.ch>) The position is offered for a period of three years and can be extended. Salary scale is provided by the Swiss National Science Foundation (http://www.snf.ch/SiteCollectionDocuments/allg_doktorierende_e.pdf) The application deadline is August 8, 2024, or until the position is filled. ---------------------------------- Prof. Jean-Pascal Pfister Theoretical Neuroscience Group Department of Physiology University of Bern Bühlplatz 5 3012 Bern, Switzerland https://physio.unibe.ch/~pfister/group/ Tel: ++ 41 31 631 87 78

July 1, 2024

Postdoc in physics-based machine learning jointly with the MedTech industry

by Erik Fransén

Postdoc in physics-based machine learning jointly with the MedTech industry Are you looking for a postdoc combining academic research in machine learning with close collaboration with the industry? Do you want to join our research group at KTH developing fundamental machine learning times series algorithms and the team at Getinge producing the next generation ventilators for the intensive care? Are you passionate about physical simulation and proficient in parameter estimation? If so, we believe you will find our project developing a digital twin of the respiratory system a perfect match. Find the ad and apply: https://kth.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:739922/ Best regards, Erik Fransén and Elira Maksuti

June 30, 2024

Online Vocational Internship: Python programing and Hypothesis Testing

by PRANAV NERURKAR

Dear all, Apologies for the cross posts. Please spread the word to interested colleagues. Greetings Hope you are doing well. We are launching an internship. Registration: https://internships.utkarshminds.com/ In summary this two months internship has: 1. Students will learning advanced data analysis and work on 25 projects 2. After completion they can get a internship completion certificate 3. They can add in their resume and increase chances of getting a job 4. Only a one time fee of Rs. 99 (USD 2/EURO 2) is taken from them *Description:* This internship is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to become an Applied Python Developer. You will learn how to write efficient Python code, work with data structures, handle file operations, and build real-world applications using Python. *Key Highlights:* 1. Learn to write efficient Python code 2. Master data structures and algorithms in Python 3. Build real-world applications with Python *What you will learn:* 1. Write Efficient Python Code 2. Learn best practices for writing clean, readable, and efficient Python code 3. Data Structures and Algorithms 4. Master essential data structures and algorithms in Python for effective problem solving 5. Build Real-world Applications 6. Apply your Python skills to build practical applications and projects Regards *Pranav A. NERURKAR* Specialist - AI & Data science UTKARSH MINDS +91 961-999-77-97 pranav.nerurkar@ <amandine.deplantes(a)igonogo.io>utkarshminds.com www.utkarshminds.com Nirmala Sadan, Jaya Nagar, Kasturba cross road no. 1, Mumbai - 400066

June 28, 2024

Early bird registration CLOSING TOMORROW

by INCF

Join us at the INCF Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024 <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/> on Sep 23-25 at the University of Texas at Austin! Early bird registration <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/register> closes tomorrow - register before end-of-day on Fri Jun 28 to get the early bird price! The INCF Assembly is a unique venue where neuroscience standards developers, infrastructure providers, and software developers have the opportunity to interact with the research community to share the latest advancements in neuroinformatics. The meeting is followed by 3 training courses: Driving collaboration in neurophysiology with NWB and DANDI, Introduction to reproducible neuroimaging data processing and analysis, and DataJoint pipelines for your neuroscience experiments on Sep 26-27. This year's theme Brain Meets AI: Pioneering the Future of Neuroinformatics Our keynote speakers are Elisabeth Bik (Microbiome Digest), Timo Dickscheid (Jülich Research Cente), Hanchuan Peng (SEU-ALLEN Joint Center), Danilo Bzdok (Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute), and Viktor Jirsa (Institut de Neurosciences des Systemès). See you at Assembly 2024! /The INCF Team

June 27, 2024

Advanced Neural Data Analysis and Neuroinformatics School (ANDA-NI) - Apply by July 31, 2024!

by Michael Denker

June 27, 2024

Deadline approaching - Bernstein Conference 2024

by Alexander Lammers

The deadline for the submission of poster abstracts for the Bernstein Conference 2024 is approaching! Abstract submission: https://bernstein-network.de/bernstein-conference/abstract-submission/<https://bernstein-network.de/bernstein-conference/registration/> ____ Each year the Bernstein Network invites the international computational neuroscience community to the annual Bernstein Conference for intensive scientific exchange. It has established itself as one of the most renowned conferences worldwide in this field, attracting students, postdocs, and PIs from around the world to meet and discuss new scientific discoveries. Conference website: https://bernstein-network.de/bernstein-conference/ ____ IMPORTANT DATES * Poster abstract submission deadline: Jul 10, 2024 (15:00 CEST) * Early registration deadline: Jul 31, 2024 (23:59 CEST) * Late registration deadline: Sep 11, 2024 (23:59 CEST) * Bernstein Conference: Sep 29 – Oct 2, 2024 ____ INVITED SPEAKERS Dmitriy Aronov (Columbia University, USA) Helen Barron (University of Oxford, UK) Elizabeth Buffalo (University of Washington, USA) Alex Cayco Gajic (Ecole Normale Supérieure, France) Jan Drugowitsch (Harvard University, USA) Jakob Macke (University of Tübingen, Germany) Tirin Moore (Stanford University, USA) Mala Murthy (Princeton University, USA) Memming Park (Champalimaud Foundation, Portugal) Susanne Schreiber (Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Germany) Xiao-Jing Wang (New York University, USA) ____ CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Matthias Kaschube (Conference Chair) Srdjan Ostojic (Program Chair) Tatiana Engel (Program Vice Chair) Maria Eckstein (Workshop Chair) Wiktor Młynarski (Workshop Vice Chair) & Athena Akrami, Mehrdad Jazayeri, Jennifer Li, Scott Linderman, Ashok Litwin-Kumar, Ida Momennejad, Christina Savin, Andrew Saxe, Daniela Vallentin, Friedemann Zenke. ____ For any further questions, please contact: bernstein.conference(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.conference@fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

June 27, 2024

2024 Brain-Score Benchmarking Competition -- Deadline coming up

by Martin Schrimpf

[Image] The Brain-Score Benchmarking Competition<https://www.brain-score.org/competition/> aims to find behavioral and neural benchmarks on which the predictions of our current top models break down. We are entering the final week of the 2024 competition - please submit your benchmarks to highlight the flaws in current state-of-the-art models of vision (and win prizes)! In 2022, the first Brain-Score Competition led to new and improved models of primate vision that predicted existing benchmarks reasonably well. In this year's Brain-Score Competition 2024, we are closing the loop on testing model predictions by rewarding those benchmarks that show where models are the least aligned to the primate visual ventral stream. The Competition is open to the scientific community and we provide an infrastructure to evaluate a variety of models on new behavioral and neural benchmarks in a standardized and unified manner. In addition, we will incentivize benchmark submissions by providing visibility to participants and a $10,000 prize pool<https://www.brain-score.org/competition/#tracks> to the winning benchmarks. Submissions<https://www.brain-score.org/profile/vision/> are open until June 30, 2024. For regular updates related to the competition, please follow Brain-Score on Twitter<https://twitter.com/brain_score> and join our community<https://www.brain-score.org/community>. Good Luck! Competition Tracks * Behavioral: This track will reward those benchmarks that show-case model short-comings in predicting behavior (human or non-human primate). The winning submissions will be the behavioral benchmarks with the lowest model scores, mean-averaged over all models, i.e. as close as possible to 0. The benchmarks can target any behavioral task that the models engage on (labeling, class probabilities, odd-one-out ; see the model interface<https://brain-score.readthedocs.io/en/latest/modules/model_interface.html#b…>). 1st prize: $3,000; 2nd prize: $2,000. * Neural: This track will reward those benchmarks that show-case model short-comings in predicting neural activity across the primate visual ventral stream. The winning submissions will be the neural benchmarks with the lowest model scores, mean-averaged over all models, i.e. as close as possible to 0. The benchmarks can target any region(s) in the visual ventral stream: V1, V2, V4, IT (see the model interface<https://brain-score.readthedocs.io/en/latest/modules/model_interface.html#b…>). Brain recordings can be from human or non-human primates. 1st prize: $3,000; 2nd prize: $2,000.

June 27, 2024

PhD position in Computational Neuroscience, TU Berlin, Germany

by Klaus Obermayer

Dear moderator, can you post the job announcement below? Thank you very much! Best regards Klaus Obermayer ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Neural Information Processing Group @ Technische Universität Berlin* *PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience (salary grade E13 TV-L 100%)* *Modelling Neural Population Dynamics and the Effects of External Stimulation* *Faculty IV - Institute of Software Engineering and Theoretical Computer Science / Neural Information Processing Group* *Earliest starting date: *Sept. 1st, 2024 *Period:*5 years *Application Deadline: *July 26, 2024 *Reference number: *IV-307/24** *Working field: *Participation in the projects of the our research group in the field of computational neuroscience on modelling neural dynamics and the effects of external stimulation; collaboration with theoretical, experimental, and clinical research groups of the CRC 1315 (https://www.sfb1315.de/) and the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (https://www.bccn-berlin.de/) assistance in the maintenance of the computer infrastructure of the research group; teaching tutorials for introductory courses in programming and algorithms & architectures for non-CS students. For information about our research group see https://www.tu.berlin/en/ni. *Requirements: *Successfully completed university degree (Master, Diplom, or equivalent) in Computational Neuroscience, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related fields; in-depth knowledge in nonlinear dynamics; a very good command of the English and German languages; the ability to teach in German; very good programming skills. Experience in modelling neural systems and teaching experience are desirable. Please send your application with the usual documents (including CV, transcripts of records, German language certificate for non-native speakers) exclusively by e-mail to Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer at *klaus.obermayer(a)tu-berlin.de*.

June 27, 2024

Fully funded PhD position in Lifelong Machine Learning at Loughborough University

by Andrea Soltoggio

Dear All, A fully funded PhD position is available in my research group at Loughborough University on the topic "Lifelong learning and shareable models: How to reduce the energy footprint of AI and contribute to a sustainable decarbonised future". Please find further details at https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/phd-opportuniti… Application deadline: 19th July 2024 This project will further extend research directions highlighted in our recent paper "A collective AI via lifelong learning and sharing at the edge" Nature Machine Intelligence, March 2024, available at : https://rdcu.be/dB9zt Requirements: Applicant should have, or expect to achieve, a first-class honours (or international equivalent) in computer science or related subjects. Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements ( International website<http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/>) Project details: Current AI models are not designed to reuse and share knowledge. When conditions change, e.g., data distributions, locations, or platforms, retraining needs to occur from scratch. In some cases, like for foundation models or for complex robotics tasks, the process requires very large amount of data and energy. Recent advances towards lifelong learning and sharable models promise to create a new efficient AI landscape in which machine-learned knowledge can be built incrementally and worldwide with optimized energy use. This PhD project aims to advance the latest lifelong learning and sharable AI models to contribute to reduce the energy footprint of AI. An overview of this emerging field can be found in a recent publication from our group on Nature Machine Intelligence https://doi.org/10.1038/s42256-024-00800-2 The student will be part of a growing group of researchers in machine learning and artificial intelligence in the Computer Science Department with collaborators from Loughborough Business School. Learn more about Digital Decarbonisation<https://www.lboro.ac.uk/schools/business-school/digital-decarbonisation/>. The project is in collaboration with the co-supervision of Dr. Vitor Castro, Dr. Rebecca Higginson and Prof. Tom Jackson. Best regards, Andrea Soltoggio -- Dr. Andrea Soltoggio (he/him or they/them) Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Artificial Intelligence Department of Computer Science, School of Science & Intelligent Automation Centre https://www.intelligent-automation.org.uk/about-us/centre-staff & Centre for Information Management https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/sbe/cim/ Haslegrave Building, N.2.03 Loughborough University LE11 3TU, UK Email: a.soltoggio(a)lboro.ac.uk<mailto:a.soltoggio@lboro.ac.uk> Web: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/compsci/staff/dr-andrea-soltoggio.html

June 26, 2024

Adam Tyson: Software Tools for Systems Neuroscience @ INCF/OCNS Software WG session on 9th July, 1500 UTC

by Ankur Sinha

Dear all, Apologies for the cross posts. Please do spread the word to interested colleagues. Adam Tyson from the Neuroinformatics Unit at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre will talk about the software tools that their group develops at the next INCF/OCNS Software Working Group (WG) session on July 09 at 1500 UTC. There will be a Q&A/discussion session after the presentation, followed by any WG business. Please find the abstract and joining information below: - When: July 9, 1500 UTC - Where: Zoom: https://ucl.zoom.us/j/91017703246?pwd=RmdwMW9xL0FFaFVVL0Z6dUtnbkplZz09 - Web page: https://ocns.github.io/SoftwareWG/2024/06/26/wg-meeting-9-july-2024-softwar… Abstract: Understanding the brain requires processing and analysing large, multidimensional datasets. Systems neuroscience, in particular, has undergone a drastic transformation, with individual labs now commonly generating terabytes or even petabytes of data annually. While there has been an increase in software tools to process this data, many of these tools are single-purpose, inadequately maintained, or poorly integrated with the broader software ecosystem. This talk will outline some of the tools we are developing for computational neuroanatomy, video behavioural analysis, and data management. About the speaker: Adam Tyson is the Head Research Engineer at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre and Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit at University College London. He established the Neuroinformatics Unit, a research software engineering team dedicated to developing robust, maintainable, and user-friendly software tools for neuroscience and machine learning. Adam completed a PhD in neuroscience at King's College London before working as a software developer at the Institute of Cancer Research and the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. Resources/links: - BrainGlobe: https://brainglobe.info/ - Movement: https://movement.neuroinformatics.dev/ - NeuroBluePrint: https://neuroblueprint.neuroinformatics.dev/ - Neuroinformatics Unit: https://neuroinformatics.dev/ - Sainsbury Wellcome Centre: https://www.sainsburywellcome.org/web/ - Gatsby Computational Neuroscience: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gatsby/gatsby-computational-neuroscience-unit On behalf of the WG, -- Thanks, Regards, Ankur Sinha (He / Him / His) | https://ankursinha.in Research Fellow at the Silver Lab, University College London | http://silverlab.org/ Free/Open source community volunteer at the NeuroFedora project | https://neuro.fedoraproject.org Time zone: Europe/London

June 26, 2024

11th rTAIM Online Seminar | Walter Sinnott-Armstrong (Duke Uni.) | 26 June 2024 - 3pm Lisbon Time Zone | Zoom

by steven gouveia

Dear All, Following the 10th rTAIM Online Seminar (available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsRMi76gv9c) we are happy to announce the 11th rTAIM Online Seminar with the participation of Professor Walter Sinnott-Armstrong (Duke University, USA), on the 26th June 2024, 15h-16h30 Lisbon Time Zone, via Zoom. Title: The Moral AI and How We Get There Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to be used for many life-changing decisions in medicine. Critics object that using AI in these areas is too likely to lead to harm, unfairness, and other moral wrongs. In response, I will argue that these decisions can be made safer and more ethical by building human moral values into the AI decisionmaker. But how can we do that? I will discuss problems for some proposed ways to build morality into AI from the top down and from the bottom up. Then I will explain our lab’s novel hybrid alternative, which surveys human moral judgments and then corrects for ignorance, confusion, and partiality. Because our approach is based on idealized observer theories in ethics, it minimizes substantive assumptions about what is morally right or wrong, and it can be used in a wide variety of contexts. I will report initial empirical results using our method and discuss potential applications to kidney allocation and dementia. Short bio: Walter Sinnott-Armstrong is Chauncey Stillman Professor of Practical Ethics in the Department of Philosophy and the Kenan Institute for Ethics at Duke University. His most recent book is Moral AI and How We Can Get There, with Jana Schaich Borg and Vincent Conitzer in 2024. Zoom: Link: https://videoconf-colibri.zoom.us/j/98415196784?pwd=a3dHbmF4VzlTaVczWTB6QzV… Meeting ID: 984 1519 6784 Passcode: 765321 More info: https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/<https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/rtaim-seminars.html>rtaim<https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/rtaim-seminars.html>-seminars.html<https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/rtaim-seminars.html> We are also happy to announce that the Call for Abstract for the 3rd International Conference on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence that will happen in the São Miguel Islands in the Azores (Portugal), between 19-25 September 2024 (online and in-person), is OPEN for submissions (notifications of acceptance/rejectance) are given in 7-10 days). You can find the information related to the 3ICEAI here: https://trustaimedicine.weebly.com/3iceai.html Sincerely, Organizer

June 26, 2024

REMINDER: World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, June 26 at 11am (EDT), Eve Marder Brandeis University | Cryptic (hidden) changes that result from perturbations and climate change shape future dynamics of degenerate neurons and circuits

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the VVTNS fourth season final lecture given by Eve Marder Brandeis University on the topic of Cryptic (hidden) changes that result from perturbations and climate change shape future dynamics of degenerate neurons and circuits The lecture will be held on zoom on *June 26, 2024*, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *A fundamental problem in neuroscience is understanding how the properties of individual neurons and synapses contribute to neuronal circuit dynamics and behavior. In recent years we have done both computational and experimental studies that demonstrate that the same physiological output can arise from multiple, degenerate solutions, and that individual animals with similar behavior can nonetheless have quite different sets of underlying circuit parameters. Most recently, we have been studying the resilience of individual animals to perturbations such as temperature and high potassium concentrations. This has revealed that extreme environmental experiences can produce long-term changes in circuit performance that can be hidden, or “cryptic” unless the animals are again challenged or perturbed. Our present experimental and computational work is designed to understand differential resilience in natural, wild-caught animals in response to climate change, and shows long-lasting influences of the animals’ temperature history. *About VVTNS : Created as the World Wide Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), its aim is to be a platform to exchange ideas among theoreticians. 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

June 25, 2024

CNS-2024 Workshop on “Neuronal Oscillations: From Mechanisms to Computation”: Information and call for spontaneous presentations by members of the community

by Rotstein, Horacio G

CNS-2024 Workshop on “Neuronal Oscillations: From Mechanisms to Computation” Information and call for spontaneous presentations by members of the community The 2024 Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting ( https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2024; CNS-2024) will be in Natal, Brazil, July 20-24. The last two days of the meeting are devoted to workshops organized by members of the community. As in previous years, we are organizing a workshop on “Oscillations: from mechanisms to computations”. The workshop is scheduled for July 24. The primary purpose of this workshop is to bring together modelers, experimentalists, and theorists with the goal of sharing and discussing their current results and ideas on the underlying mechanisms that govern the generation of these rhythms at various levels of organization, and their functional implications. Following the tradition of this workshop - We have reserved slots for members of the community whom we might not have been aware of their interest in actively participating in the workshop, particularly the more junior members of the community - We are calling for spontaneous five minutes long data blitz where interested students and postdocs can briefly present their work and contribute to the discussion - We will allow for ample time for discussion by keeping the talks relatively brief. We would like to conclude by having an open discussion on 1. The role of oscillations for neural computation 2. The opportunity that presents to the community to apply the insights from oscillatory dynamics in the brain to the design of artificial neural networks (ANNs). If time becomes an issue, we will have this discussion after the regular workshop schedule to allow for a larger group of participants. We will do our best to accommodate people who are interested in being part of the workshop and/or contribute to the discussion on the topics i and ii listed above. Please, contact us. Best regards, Horacio -- -- Horacio, NY/NJ area. "Az di bobe volt gehat beytsim volt zi geven mayn zeide" (Yiddish expression) Horacio G. Rotstein, PhD (he/they) Professor Mathematical Biology & Computational Neuroscience BioDatanamics Lab Federated Department of Biological Sciences Rutgers University / New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark, NJ, 07102, USA. Graduate Faculty Behavioral Neurosciences Program Rutgers University (NWK) tel: (1-973) 596-8460 e-mail: horacio(a)njit.edu horacior(a)andromeda.rutgers.edu <horacio(a)njit.edu> http://web.njit.edu/~horacio

June 24, 2024

PhD and post-doc at University College Dublin

by Áine Byrne

Bridging the gap for mathematical models of gap junctions PhD and post-doctoral positions available with Dr Áine Byrne (https://people.ucd.ie/aine.byrne) in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at University College Dublin’s . This project seeks to develop novel mathematical models of gap junction modulation in the brain. Gap junctions promote the synchronous activation of neurons, a signature of epileptic seizures. Using a combination of mathematical models and electrophysiological experiments, we will investigate the interplay between gap junction coupling and neuronal synchronisation. Particular attention will be paid to how gap junction coupling varies in response to changes in the surrounding environment. This newfound understanding will be exploited to understand the emergence of excessive neuronal synchronisation in epilepsy and identify novel treatments. Experiments will be carried out at Trinity College Dublin under the guidance of collaborator Prof Mark Cunningham (https://www.cunninghamlab.org/) who will provide training and the use of his facilities. PhD student A 4-year fully funded position is available from September 1st, 2024. Funding includes a stipend of €22,000 per year and a travel allowance of €1,500 per year (years 2-4). Candidates should have a strong mathematical background, programming skills (Python, LaTeX, C++, Linux), an excellent command of the English language, good communication skills, and a passion for interdisciplinary projects. A MSc in mathematics, physics, computer science or a related field is desirable, but candidates with an excellent undergraduate degree (first class honours) may also apply. Applications, including a personal statement, CV, and contact details for two referees should be sent to Áine Byrne (aine.byrne(a)ucd.ie <mailto:aine.byrne@ucd.ie>). The deadline for applications is July 15, 2024, however, later applications may also be considered. Post-doctoral positions We are currently accepting expressions of interest for a 3-year position (start date: January 1st, 2025). Candidates should have a PhD in applied mathematics, physics, computer science, neuroscience, cognitive science or a related field. Mathematical or computational modelling experience is required, while experimental experience is desirable (but not essential). Candidates should also have strong programming skills (Python, LaTeX, XPPAUTO, C++, Linux), an excellent command of the English language, good communication skills, and a passion for interdisciplinary projects Expressions of interest, including a short description of your previous experience and motivation for working on this project, should be sent to Áine Byrne (aine.byrne(a)ucd.ie <mailto:aine.byrne@ucd.ie>). A formal application procedure will follow in the coming months.

June 24, 2024

Reminder: Call for contribution and registration for Systems Vision Science Virtual Symposium July 12, 2024

by Pavlovic, Maria

Systems Vision Science Virtual Symposium: July 12th, 2024 -------------------------------- <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/symposium-2024/> Systems Vision Science Virtual Symposium takes place on July 12th, 2024, 15:00-19:00 German time, as the end of the <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/virtual-systems-vision-science-summer-s chool-symposium-2024/> Systems Vision Science Virtual Summer School. This summer school and symposium are the virtual editions of the onsite <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/> summer school and symposium in 2023. We invite contribution and free registration for this symposium. -------------------------------- The presentations at the symposium will include two keynote speeches (30 minutes each): Keynote Speech 1: "Feedback processing in human visual cortex" by Sheng He <https://www.neuroscience.umn.edu/faculty/current-faculty/g-h/sheng-he-phd> , University of Minnesota and Chinese Academy of Science, Institute of Biophysics Keynote Speech 2: "Processing partially occluded objects in the primate brain" by Anitha Pasupathy <https://sites.uw.edu/biostr/people/faculty/anitha-pasupathy/> , University of Washington, Department of Biological Structure and contributed speeches (15 minutes each). The topics of the presentations will be any topic of <https://www.lizhaoping.org/Systems-Vision-Science.html> Systems Vision Science, which combines computational, behavioral, and neuroscience methods to discover and investigate functions and algorithms for vision in various brain regions and their implementations in neural circuits. -------------------------------- To contribute or register, please fill out our registration form (including an abstract for contribution), which can be found here: <https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Form-to-regi ster-or-submit-a-contribution-to-the-SVS-symposium-2024.docx> https://summerschool.lizhaoping.org/Form-to-register-or-submit-a-contributio n-to-the-SVS-symposium-2024.docx and send the filled form to svs.summerschool(a)tue.mpg.de <mailto:svs.summerschool@tue.mpg.de> Please direct inquiries to svs.summerschool(a)tue.mpg.de <mailto:svs.summerschool@tue.mpg.de> . -------------------------------- Organizing Team Li Zhaoping Maria Pavlovic Junhao Liang Ali Gholamzadeh Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics University of Tuebingen www.lizhaoping.org <http://www.lizhaoping.org>

June 24, 2024

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, June 26 at 11am (EDT), Eve Marder Brandeis University | Cryptic (hidden) changes that result from perturbations and climate change shape future dynamics of degenerate neurons and circuits

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the VVTNS fourth season final lecture given by Eve Marder Brandeis University on the topic of Cryptic (hidden) changes that result from perturbations and climate change shape future dynamics of degenerate neurons and circuits The lecture will be held on zoom on *June 26, 2024*, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *A fundamental problem in neuroscience is understanding how the properties of individual neurons and synapses contribute to neuronal circuit dynamics and behavior. In recent years we have done both computational and experimental studies that demonstrate that the same physiological output can arise from multiple, degenerate solutions, and that individual animals with similar behavior can nonetheless have quite different sets of underlying circuit parameters. Most recently, we have been studying the resilience of individual animals to perturbations such as temperature and high potassium concentrations. This has revealed that extreme environmental experiences can produce long-term changes in circuit performance that can be hidden, or “cryptic” unless the animals are again challenged or perturbed. Our present experimental and computational work is designed to understand differential resilience in natural, wild-caught animals in response to climate change, and shows long-lasting influences of the animals’ temperature history. *About VVTNS : Created as the World Wide Neuroscience Seminar (WWTNS) in November 2020 and renamed in homage to Carl van Vreeswijk in Memoriam (April 20, 2022), its aim is to be a platform to exchange ideas among theoreticians. 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

June 24, 2024

Call for Papers - International Conference on Gender and Technology 2025

by Shyam Diwakar

Dear All, We are very happy to announce that the "International Conference on Gender and Technology 2025<https://www.amrita.edu/events/gender-technology-conference-2025>" will be held at Amrita University in Kerala, India, from January 16 to 19, 2025, and invite all to submit research papers for the conference. This flagship event is organized by Amrita University, in collaboration with UNESCO. IEEE Society on Social Implications of Technology (SSIT) and IEEE Kerala Section are technical co-sponsors for the conference. Submit your paper here<https://bit.ly/ICGT25> Conference website<https://www.amrita.edu/events/gender-technology-conference-2025> Through peer-reviewed paper publications and presentations, keynote sessions, panel discussions, and a GenAI x Gender Tech hackathon, the conference aims to be a catalyst for change. We will inform, encourage, and celebrate technology designed with inclusion in mind, with a particular focus on women's empowerment. We will explore how women can lead the charge in creating technology that not only transforms their lives but also creates positive outcomes for all. We will bring together diverse stakeholders, including UN agencies, Government representatives, academicians, experts, policymakers, civil society, industry, gender financing institutions, senior and early researchers, and students, to facilitate an intergenerational and interdisciplinary dialogue. Conference activities will also include a poster session, a concluding awards ceremony for best conference papers, posters, and hackathon teams, a gala dinner and cultural performances. ***************************** TOPICS ***************************** The conference will focus on (but is not limited to) the below core thematic areas, through the lens of gender and emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, AR/VR, Robotics, Neuroscience, etc. For more details on each theme below, please visit our conference website<https://www.amrita.edu/events/gender-technology-conference-2025>. 1. Gender, Society, and Representation in Emerging Technologies 2. Climate Change, Environment, and Gender 3. Gender, Livelihood, and the Future of Work 4. Women’s Health and Sanitation in the Digital Age 5. Safety and Security: Gendered Perspectives on New Technologies 6. Gender, Education, and Cultural Shifts through Technology 7. Socio-cultural Change, Access to Technology, and Gender Equity Politics 8. Building Inclusive Resilience to Disaster and Climate Change 9. Inclusive Technology Design for Social Good 10. Ethics, Data Science, and Social Problem Solving 11. Emerging Technologies: Opportunities and Vulnerabilities 12. Gender and Finance: Technological Innovations for Financial Inclusion ***************************** IMPORTANT DATES: ***************************** Paper Submission Deadline: August 30, 2024 Notification of Acceptance: October 15, 2024 Final Camera-ready Paper: November 15, 2024 Registration Deadline: December 15, 2024 ***************************** SUBMISSION GUIDELINES ***************************** Full Papers for Publication and Presentation (up to 6 pages in length, including the full reference section): Mature results, tested innovations, or completed projects. Poster Presentation (1–2 page summary/abstract): Discussion of fieldwork in progress (with insufficient results for a full paper) that addresses intention, unexpected challenges, unintended outcomes, successes, and failures. All papers must adhere to the IEEE Standard two-column conference format on A4 size paper in English. Use IEEE conference templates in Word or LaTeX to prepare your manuscript. The use of artificial intelligence (AI)–)-generated text in an article shall be disclosed in the acknowledgments section of any paper submitted. The sections of the paper that use AI-generated text shall have a citation to the AI system used to generate the text. All submitted articles should report original, previously unpublished research results, experimental or theoretical. Articles submitted to the conference should meet these criteria and must not be under consideration for publication elsewhere. Any act of plagiarism will result in immediate rejection of the paper. Papers for publication must be submitted in full paper electronically via EDAS Submission System. Accepted papers presented by an original author or co-author will be published in the Conference Proceedings, and submitted for inclusion in IEEE Xplore and scopus indexing, subject to meeting IEEE Xplore’s scope and quality requirements. Posters will be published as an addendum to the conference proceedings and will not be submitted to IEEE Xplore or for scopus indexing. Join us at the 2025 International Conference on Gender and Technology to contribute to a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights shaping the future of technology through a gender lens. We look forward to your submissions and to welcoming you to Kerala, India, for the event. For inquiries, please contact: gendertechpublications(a)am.amrita.edu<mailto:gendertechpublications@am.amrita.edu> Submission can be sent at https://bit.ly/ICGT25 ***************************** CONTACT ***************************** E-mail (for general inquiries): gendertechconference(a)am.amrita.edu<mailto:gendertechconference@am.amrita.edu> E-mail (for paper submission inquiries): gendertechpublications(a)am.amrita.edu<mailto:gendertechpublications@am.amrita.edu> Website: https://www.amrita.edu/events/gender-technology-conference-2025 -- Prof. Shyam Diwakar, Ph.D. Director - Amrita Mind Brain Center Faculty Fellow - Amrita Center for International Programs Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University) Amritapuri, Clappana P.O. Kollam, India. Pin: 690525 Ph:+91-476-2803501 Fax:+91-476-2899722 http://amrita.edu/mindbrain [https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/mail-sig/AIorK4y0J3snkg8ODMTKoZbKJ51foHfW…] [https://intranet.cb.amrita.edu/sig/RankingLogo.png] Disclaimer<https://intranet.cb.amrita.edu/sig/Disclaimer.htm>

June 22, 2024