- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

New on the VVTNS website and YouTube channel

by David Hansel

[image: VVTNS.png] > > <https://streaklinks.com/B6q193DODqR1jYtfTwOu_wvC/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > https://www.wwtns.online > <https://streaklinks.com/A9c7PbbpKY7PxB6PaAJWGD3-/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wwtns.on…> > - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide > New on the VVTNS website and YouTube channel Manuel Beiran Columbia University "Prediction of neural activity in connectome-constrained recurrent networks" talk given on April 3, 2024 https://www.wwtns.online/past-seminars-2023-2024 ------------------------------------ *VVTNS: VVTNS is a weekly digital seminar on Zoom targeting the theoretical neuroscience community. 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.* -- 'Life is good ..' (Carl van Vreeswijk, 1962-2022) --------------------------------------- David Hansel Directeur de Recherche au CNRS Co-Group leader Cerebral Dynamics Plasticity and Learning lab. 45 rue des Saints Pères 75270 Paris Cedex 06 Tel (Cell): +33 607508403 - Fax (33).1.49.27.90.62 ᐧ

April 5, 2024

[jobs] PhD position(s) in Toulouse (France): Deep learning models of the Global Workspace

by Rufin VanRullen

PhD position(s) in an ERC-funded project exploring deep-learning implementations of the Global Workspace theory. We are seeking highly motivated and dedicated students to join our group in Toulouse, France. Successful candidates will have formal training in AI, Computer Science or related fields (e.g. computational neuroscience), and a keen interest in cognitive neuroscience. Our ERC Advanced Grant "GLoW" aims to take inspiration from neuroscience and cognitive theories to build deep neural network models of cognition, capable of integrating or "grounding" information across sensory and linguistic modalities, and of displaying flexible cognitive behavior. We will also use advanced AI models to improve the decoding and understanding of brain activity. Details on the ideas that are developed in the project can be found in this Opinion paper <https://www.cell.com/trends/neurosciences/fulltext/S0166-2236(21)00077-1>. The project is headed by Rufin VanRullen (CNRS, Toulouse, France), with external advisors Ryota Kanai (Araya, Tokyo, Japan) and Murray Shanahan (ICL/Deepmind, London, UK). Our lab <https://rufinv.github.io/> is part of the CerCo Institute <https://cerco.cnrs.fr/en> as well as the Artificial and Natural Intelligence Toulouse Institute (ANITI) <https://aniti.univ-toulouse.fr/en/>. Our team has many opportunities to collaborate with neuroscientists, computer scientists, linguists, roboticists etc. We have direct access to fMRI recording facilities and to in-house (GPU) computing clusters as well as research-dedicated supercomputers. Typical appointments for PhD students are 3 years. The PhD stipend is 2,000 Euros/month (net). We expect to hire at least one candidate in the Fall of 2024, but will continue to recruit exceptional applicants in the foreseeable future. There is no firm deadline, but applications received before May 15, 2024 will receive full consideration. To apply, please send a CV and a letter <mailto:rufin.vanrullen@cnrs.fr> explaining your research interests and motivations to: rufin.vanrullen [at] cnrs.fr Any questions should also be directed to the same address. --

April 4, 2024

Flatiron Neuro Data Analysis Workshop at Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2024

by Jessica Hauser

Applications are open for the Flatiron Institute's Center for Computational Neuroscience's first pynapple-fastplotlib-nemos workshop, a satellite event of FENS Forum 2024 in Vienna. Learn neural data analysis, visualization and modeling using state-of-the-art open source python packages developed by the NeuroRSE Group <https://neurorse.flatironinstitute.org/> at CCN. *Accommodation and meals are provided.* Learn more and apply here <https://events.simonsfoundation.org/event/62ec461f-1f9d-4e7b-8827-67e1c47c1…> . *Flatiron CCN Neuro data analysis workshop at Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2024* *Date: *June 23-24, 2024 *Application deadline: *April 19pynapple <https://pynapple-org.github.io/pynapple/> is a light-weight python library for neurophysiological data analysis. The goal is to offer a versatile set of tools to study typical data in the field, i.e. time series (spike times, behavioral events, etc.) and time intervals (trials, brain states, etc.). It also provides users with generic functions for neuroscience such as tuning curves and cross-correlograms.fastplotlib <https://github.com/fastplotlib/fastplotlib> is a next-gen plotting library built using the pygfx rendering engine that can utilize modern GPUs so it is very fast! It is an expressive plotting library that enables rapid prototyping for large scale explorative scientific visualization.nemos <https://github.com/flatironinstitute/nemos> is a statistical modeling framework for systems neuroscience, with a current focus on electrophysiology, fully compatible with pynapple. As of today, its core functionality includes the implementation of the Generalized Linear Model (GLM) for spike train analysis.If you have any questions, please contact jhauser(a)flatironinstitute.org. -- Jessica Hauser Coordinator, Center Administration Center for Computational Neuroscience *FLATIRON INSTITUTE* 160 Fifth Avenue, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10010 +1 (929) 969-7812 mobile +1 (929) 562-4586 desk

April 4, 2024

Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Summer School application deadline extension (April 10)

by Chengcheng Huang

Application deadline is extended for the 12th Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Summer School (CCNSS), which will be held from *June 23 to July 14, 2024*, at *Suzhou, China*. Online application: https://www.csh-asia.org/?content/2382 Application deadline: **April 10, 2024** About CCNSS: Designed to emphasize computational principles and neural circuit mechanisms of higher cognitive functions, the course aims at training talented and highly motivated students and postdoctoral fellows from Asia and around the world. We welcome both applicants with quantitative backgrounds (including Physics, Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science) and those with experimental backgrounds. The lectures will introduce the basic concepts and methods, as well as cutting-edge research on higher brain functions such as decision-making, attention, learning and memory. Modeling will be taught at multiple levels, ranging from single neuron computation and microcircuits up to large-scale brain systems and artificial intelligence and psychiatric disorders. Python-based programming labs coordinated with the lectures will provide practical training in important computational methods. 2024 Faculty: Hannah Choi, Georgia Institute of Technology Robert Desimone, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Alain Destexhe, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Tomoki Fukai, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Leyla Isik, Johns Hopkins University Máté Lengyel, University of Cambridge Sukbin Lim, New York University, Shanghai Yunzhe Liu, Beijing Normal University Luca Mazzucato, University of Oregon Jorge Mejias, University of Amsterdam Yuanyuan Mi, Tsinghua University Ida Momennajad, Microsoft Research Memming Park, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown Anqi Wu, Georgia Institute of Technology Organizers: Dora Angelaki, New York University Christopher Honey, Johns Hopkins University Chengcheng Huang, University of Pittsburgh Songting Li, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Xiao-Jing Wang, New York University Guangyu Robert Yang, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Supports: Cold Spring Harbor Asia Simons Foundation -- Dr. Chengcheng Huang Assistant Professor Department of Neuroscience Department of Mathematics University of Pittsburgh

April 4, 2024

Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024: Keynote announcement, IP sessions, abstract submissions, & early bird registration

by Heather Topple

*Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024: Keynote announcement,* *IP sessions, abstract submissions, & early bird registration* The INCF Assembly <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/> 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. For the first time since 2019, we're hosting Assembly in-person! Assembly will run from Sep 23-25 in Austin, Texas, with training activities from Sep 26-27. This year's theme is Brain Meets AI: Pioneering the Future of Neuroinformatics. Abstract submission <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/abstract-submission> and early bird registration <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/register> are open for INCF Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024 <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/> - make sure to register before Jun 28 to get the early bird price! Are you interested in presenting at Assembly 2024? We’re seeking 3 investigator presentations for each of the 4 main sessions at INCF Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024: - FAIR neuroscience - Technologies for large-scale computation and team science - Applications of AI to neuroscience research - Closing the discovery loop and digital twins Please submit your investigator presentation abstract via this link <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/abstract-submission> no later than April 08, 2024. Selected presenters will have their registration fee waived as a thank-you for your contribution. Note: You need to be signed in to submit an abstract, but you don’t need to be an INCF member to create an account. Keynote announcement! Elisabeth Bik, PhD, Microbiome Digest Microbiome specialist Elisabeth Bik is a Microbiome and Science Integrity consultant. She can often be found discussing science papers on Twitter at @MicrobiomDigest <https://twitter.com/MicrobiomDigest>, writing for her blog ScienceIntegrityDigest <https://scienceintegritydigest.com/> or searching the biomedical literature for inappropriately duplicated or manipulated photographic images, plagiarized text, or poor study design and data analysis. Bik’s work has been featured in Nature, Science, the New York Times, Le Monde, Wall Street Journal, STAT News, and The Scientist. Viktor Jirsa, PhD, Institut de Neurosciences des Systemès Dr. Jirsa is one of the Lead Scientists in the Human Brain Project <https://www.humanbrainproject.eu/> and The Virtual Brain <https://www.thevirtualbrain.org/> and has published more than 150 scientific articles and book chapters, as well as co-edited several books including the Handbook of Brain Connectivity <https://www.amazon.ca/Handbook-Brain-Connectivity-Viktor-Jirsa/dp/3540714626>. Dr. Jirsa has made notable contributions to the understanding of how network structure constrains the emergence of functional dynamics using methods from nonlinear dynamic system theory and computational neuroscience. Danilo Bzdok, MD, PhD, Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute Dr Bzdok currently serves as Associate Professor at McGill's Faculty of Medicine and as Canada CIFAR AI Chair at Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, Montreal, Canada, including cross-appointments at the McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, and the School of Computer Science at McGill University. His interdisciplinary research activity centers on narrowing knowledge gaps in the brain basis of human-defining types of thinking, with a special focus on the higher association cortex in health and disease. Important dates Mar 15 - Early bird, abstract, & investigator presentation registration open! Apr 08 - IP registration closes Jun 29 - Regular registration Sep 23-25 - Assembly Sep 26-27 - Training See you at Assembly 2024! /The INCF Team

April 4, 2024

2-years post-doc position in neuro-computational AI ethics, ISIR, Sorbonne University, Paris

by Mehdi Khamassi

Context The CAVAA European project (https://cavaa.eu/) proposes to realize a theory of awareness instantiated as an integrated computational architecture and its components to explain awareness in biological systems and engineer it in technological ones. In a world governed by hidden states, awareness enables to deal with the “invisible”, from unexplored environments (counterfactual pasts and futures) to social interaction that depends on the internal states of agents and moral norms. In particular, we will study such cognitive architecture agents’ ability and propensity of reasoning, decision-making, or revisiting past experiences, but also reflecting upon what was right or wrong given some moral norms, and which possible future states could be right or wrong. CAVAA’s awareness engineering is accompanied by an ethics framework towards human users and aware artefacts in the broader spectrum of trustworthy AI, considering shared goals, counterfactuals and projections towards new future scenarios, and prediction of the impact of choices. CAVAA aims to deliver a better user experience because of its explainability, adaptability, and legibility. Location and environment The post-doc position will be located in the Institute of Intelligent Systems and Robotics (ISIR, http://www.isir.upmc.fr) Paris, France. ISIR belongs to Sorbonne Université, CNRS and INSERM, and is located in the center of Paris, thus at walking distance from the Seine river, from other academic institutions (La Sorbonne, Collège de France, Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital la Pitié Salpétrière), and from famous monuments (Notre Dame, Conciergerie, Panthéon, Théâtre du Châtelet, Institut du Monde Arabe). Speaking or understanding French is not required. This work will be done in close collaborations with philosophers, engineers and computational neuroscientists of the CAVAA consortium. Profile We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a strong academic record. An excellent background is expected at the interface between computational neuroscience and machine learning. Significant experience in cognitive architectures and computational modeling for neuroscience, psychology, AI or cognitive robotics will be appreciated. Mastery of reinforcement learning and game theory, and advanced programming skills in modern C++ and python are required. A strong interest in philosophy of mind and moral philosophy is expected. Mission The post-doc work will focus on ethical reasoning through virtualization, deliberation and alignment with human values. The theoretical framework will be anchored on probabilistic model-based reinforcement learning, extended to include homeostatic, epistemic and social values, including social conventions and moral norms as starting point. Research will investigate learning through interaction with the environment and with other agents, social decision-making, mental simulation and counterfactual reasoning to inform humans about potential long-term consequences of actions. The model will be confronted to experimental data about human decision-making when confronted to various social and moral dilemmas. The model will be integrated into the CAVAA cognitive architecture and applied in artificial agents and robots in virtual and real-world scenarios involving spatial navigation and social interaction. To apply Applicants should send a CV, letter of motivation (max 2 pages), and a list of two references via e-mail to mehdi.khamassi(a)sorbonne-universite.fr and raja.chatila(a)sorbonne-universite.fr. Please put [CAVAA post-doc application] in the subject of the mail. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until the position is filled. -- Mehdi Khamassi, PhD, HDR Research director (DR2), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Institute of Intelligent Systems and Robotics, Sorbonne Université ISIR - BC 173, 4 place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France phone: +33 6 50 76 44 92 email: mehdi.khamassi(a)sorbonne-universite.fr https://pages2.isir.upmc.fr/mkhamassi/ Visiting Researcher at the Institute of Communication and Computer Systems National Technical University of Athens, Greece https://www.iccs.gr/en/?noredirect=en_US

April 3, 2024

New positions for postdoc at unipv

by Shailesh Appukuttan

*(posting on behalf of Simona Tritto)* *New calls for postdoc positions are now open at the Neurophysiology/Neurocomputation Units of the University of Pavia coordinated by prof. Egidio D'Angelo *(dangelo lab <https://dangelo.unipv.it/>) · Spiking neural networks for digital brain twins of schizophrenia <https://dangelo.unipv.it/2024/03/20/7606/> · Generation and simulation of a cerebellar robotic controller <https://dangelo.unipv.it/2024/03/20/new-position-1-generation-and-simulatio…> · Workflow design and signal analysis <https://dangelo.unipv.it/2024/03/20/new-position-3-workflow-design-and-sign…> Many thanks, best wishes Simona [image: LOGO-UNIPV] Simona Tritto Dipartimento di Scienze del Sistema Nervoso e del Comportamento Scientific Technician T. 0382.987048 <0382987048>

April 3, 2024

Call for participants -- WasON study

by Davide Coraci

Dear list members, We are recruiting participants worldwide and it would be fantastic if you could take part in the WasON study. The aim of the study is to investigate how *neuroscientists* and researchers (psychologists, cognitive scientists, philosophers, etc.) with some familiarity with neuroimaging techniques draw associations between *cognitive processes* and *fMRI data* observed experimentally. The study has been developed by the SANe and the MInD units (MoMiLab <https://momilab.imtlucca.it/> research group at IMT School Lucca, Italy) and can be found here: https://www.sane-elab.eu/NRIA/welcome.php. The questionnaire can be completed through PC or smartphone (however, the use of the PC is warmly suggested to visualize the fMRI maps better). Collected data will be completely *anonymous*. Once the questionnaire is finished, you can *check your accuracy* and decide to continue with another set of questions. In this case, please do not close or restart the session, otherwise the system will create another participant ID. We ask you to complete the questionnaire individually. However, after completing the survey you may want to compare your score with one of your lab mates and colleagues. Feel free to forward the link to anyone you think could be interested. If you have any questions or just want to be updated with the results of the study, please do not hesitate to contact us (davide.coraci(a)imtlucca.it) Thank you very much for your availability and your time. All the best, Davide Coraci -- Davide Coraci Phd Student IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca MoMiLab <https://momilab.imtlucca.it> - *Molecular Mind Laboratory* MInD <https://momilab.imtlucca.it/research/mind> - *Models, Inference, and Decisions * https://www.davidecoraci.com/welcome.php

April 3, 2024

positions available in consciousness research: 2x postdoc and 3x PhD

by Anil Seth

Apologies for cross posting: 2x Postdoc and 3x PhD new positions now available at Sussex! Do you have a strong background in cognitive and computational neuroscience and a desire to contribute to the cutting edge of consciousness research? Two postdoctoral research positions and three PhD positions are now available at the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science (SCCS; https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/ccs/) The SCCS is a University of Sussex Centre of Excellence and an internationally prominent group in consciousness science, situated in the beautiful Falmer campus of Sussex University, and boasting enviable research facilities as well as strong collaborative links with a range of national and international partners. The positions are supported by an ERC Advanced Investigator Grant (project CONSCIOUS; 2 postdocs and 2 PhDs) to Anil Seth, and by the SCCS, via the School of Informatics and Engineering (1 PhD). The postdoc positions funded for 2 years with possible extension for another 2, starting as soon as suitable candidates are identified. The PhD positions are fully funded (for both UK and overseas candidates) for 3.5 years, starting in September 2024 (earlier start may be negotiable). The ERC positions are all within the broad remit of computational (neuro)phenomenology, exploring different applications of a predictive processing view of conscious perception. One of the ERC PhD positions will focus on perceptual diversity, analysing and extending our unique Perception Census project (https://perceptioncensus.dreamachine.world/) The SCCS PhD is flexible in terms of project focus and supervisor; here, we invite PhD proposals that have a computational/informatics element. *Updated Deadline*. Apply by April 26 for all positions. Further details, including how to apply, are here: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-centre-for-consciousness-s… ------------------------------------------- Anil K. Seth, D.Phil. Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience, University of Sussex Director, Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science, University of Sussex Co-Director, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Program on Brain, Mind, and Consciousness Advanced Investigator, European Research Council Editor-in-Chief, Neuroscience of Consciousness www.anilseth.com @anilkseth [Being You Pb Digital Assets v1 Email copy.png]

April 3, 2024

Dana Ballard memorial symposium at ICDL (May 20, 2024), UT Austin

by Reinoud Maex

From: Brian Sullivan <brian.sullivan(a)bristol.ac.uk<mailto:brian.sullivan@bristol.ac.uk>> Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2024 14:27 To: comp-neuro-owner(a)lists.cnsorg.org<mailto:comp-neuro-owner@lists.cnsorg.org> <comp-neuro-owner(a)lists.cnsorg.org<mailto:comp-neuro-owner@lists.cnsorg.org>> Subject: Dana Ballard memorial symposium at ICDL (May 20, 2024), UT Austin On May 20, 2024, a memorial symposium will be held as a remembrance and celebration of the life and scientific work of Dr. Dana Ballard (1946–2022), who was a pioneer in the study of computer vision, neural computation, human vision and motor coordination, and robotics. Dr. Ballard was a professor of computer science at the University of Texas at Austin and a member of the Center for Perceptual Systems. As part of the IEEE International Conference on Development and Learning (ICDL) 2024,https://la.utexas.edu/users/dil/ICDL_Austin_2024/<https://la.utexas.edu/users/dil/ICDL_Austin_2024>, we will host a morning seminar session celebrating Dana Ballard’s research with presentations by: Rajesh Rao, Jochen Triesch, Chen Yu, Virginia De Sa, Constantin Rothkopf, Janneke Jehee, and Ruohan Zhang. Memorial Session Website: https://la.utexas.edu/users/dil/symposium%20_icdl/index.html<https://la.utexas.edu/users/dil/symposium%20_icdl/index.html> Date: Monday May 20, 2024 Time: 8:30 am to 12:00 pm Location: The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA The session is free but we ask that you kindly register your plans to attend via the Google form listed on the session website, or via the direct link here: Registration for the Dana Ballard Memorial Symposium at ICDL 2024 (google.com)<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScI5RRtrBBlKpEi3wcXw30MBM3nfe7mwCj…> Note that registration for the main conference is not required, but if you are interested in attending the main conference, you can register here: https://web.cvent.com/event/298b4f7f-1772-4c46-b774-f438a164f72f/summary<https://web.cvent.com/event/298b4f7f-1772-4c46-b774-f438a164f72f/summary> Information about accommodation is available on the main conference web page. Brian Sullivan & Chen Yu -- Brian Sullivan brian.sullivan(a)bristol.ac.uk<mailto:brian.sullivan@bristol.ac.uk> Honorary Research Fellow Population Health Sciences Bristol Medical School BF7 Barley House University of Bristol Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK

April 3, 2024

Applications are now open for CAMP2024

by Jeevan Kumar Gochhayat

Dear All, Applications for CAMP 2024 are now open <https://campiiser.com/>! . CAMP (Computational Approaches to Memory and Plasticity) summer school is a two-week program that provides Ph.D. students and postdocs with training in the areas of learning, memory, and plasticity in the brain. The program will take place between 1st and 17th July 2024 at IISER Pune <https://www.iiserpune.ac.in/>, India. Deadline for application submission is 23rd April ,2024. Apply now at https://campiiser.com/ Please circulate the course information among labs/departments/students that might be interested. You can also follow us on X (formerly Twitter) : https://x.com/camp_course?t=p_3pXlqRl3yNmRgb83_AMQ&s=09 CAMP invites Ph.D. students, master’s students, final-year undergraduates, and postdocs worldwide from all backgrounds to CAMP@Pune. At this intensive 17-day course, students will be trained in theoretical and computational modeling of memory and plasticity in the brain, spanning different scales of space, time, and complexity. This year’s flavor of CAMP will be Data-Driven Neuroscience. The course will have lectures, hands-on tutorials, and projects to launch students into the exciting field of computational neuroscience. Accommodation and meals will be covered for the participants. More details on the poster <https://campiiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CAMP2024.pdf>. For more information please visit https://campiiser.com/ or email us at: camp(a)acads.iiserpune.ac.in On behalf of the organisers, Aravind Kumar Collins Assisi Rishikesh Narayanan Suhita Nadkarni Upi Bhalla ReplyForward

April 3, 2024

Modellers Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox

by Stewart Heitmann

Enrolments are now open for the Modellers Workshop for the Brain Dynamics Toolbox. This is an online course for researchers who wish to build custom dynamical models in matlab using the Brain Dynamics Toolbox. The course focuses on practical programming techniques for the major classes of differential equations (ordinary, partial, delay, stochastic) in computational neuroscience. Study time is 8 hours. Example code is provided in all cases. Upon completion, students will be able to turn custom differential equations into working simulations. Course Website https://bdtoolbox.teachable.com/p/modellers-workshop Toolbox Website https://bdtoolbox.org Important Dates Enrolments close 28th April 2024. Disclaimer The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and may have been automatically archived by Mimecast Ltd, an innovator in Software as a Service (SaaS) for business. Providing a safer and more useful place for your human generated data. Specializing in; Security, archiving and compliance. To find out more visit the Mimecast website.

April 2, 2024

Optics and Microscopy Workshop, Goniądz, Poland - Deadline April 10th

by Mateusz Kostecki

Dear Colleagues We would like to remind you that the deadline for registration to our Optics and Microscopy Workshop is April 10th! The workshop will be a *thorough, hands–on introduction to optics and microscopy*. With our instructor, Fred Marbach from Crick Institute, we will start from absolute basics – *photons, ray diagrams and lenses*; then move to building a simple optical system, just to *end up building DIY bright-field and fluorescent microscopes.* We will image neurons (hopefully!), and understand every last bit of how that image came to be (this is a certainty!). During the workshop you will build an intuition for optics, allowing you to reason about optical systems found in the lab (and in publications): you will understand the equipment you are using on a much deeper level. The workshop will take place *May 10-12th in Goniądz*, in Dwór Bartla, overlooking the beautiful Biebrza river, which at this time of the year provides great opportunities for birdwatching. The deadline for registration is April 5th,* the cost of the workshop is EUR 250 (but we provide fee waivers if needed)*. The cost includes the r*egistration fee, accommodation, breakfast and lunch.* Please find the registration form and more info here - https://nenckiopenlab.org/optics-and-microscopy-workshop-2024/ Best! NOL Team -- --- Mateusz Kostecki PhD Student Knapska Laboratory Nencki Institute 02-093 Warsaw, Pasteura 3, Poland https://twitter.com/mtkostecki https://evolvingbehavior.blog/

April 2, 2024

PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience at the University of Hertfordshire, UK

by Volker Steuber

PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience Biocomputation Research Group School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science University of Hertfordshire, UK Application deadline 1 May 2024 Bursary £19,632 per annum bursary plus the payment of the student fees Applications are invited from candidates with excellent first degrees in computer science, engineering, physics, maths, biology, neuroscience or other relevant disciplines to join projects as research students. Projects are available in (but not limited to): Computational Modelling of Homeostatic Plasticity Mechanisms for Functional Recovery of Neuronal Networks after Peripheral Lesions (supervisors Dr Muhammad Yaqoob, Dr Ankur Sinha, UCL, Dr Christoph Metzner, Technical University Berlin, Prof Volker Steuber). Mathematical Modelling of Microglia and the Neuroimmune System (supervisors Dr Alireza Poshtkohi, Prof Volker Steuber). Research in Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire has been recognised as excellent in REF 2021, with 90% of the research submitted and all of the research impact rated as internationally excellent or world leading. The University of Hertfordshire provides a very stimulating environment, offering a large number of specialised and interdisciplinary seminars as well as general training and researcher development opportunities. The University is situated in Hatfield, in the green belt just north of London. For informal enquiries contact Prof Volker Steuber (v.steuber(a)herts.ac.uk) Dr Mohammad Yaqoob (m.yaqoob3(a)herts.ac.uk) or Dr Alireza Poshtkohi (a.poshtkohi(a)herts.ac.uk) Detailed project descriptions and an application form can be found at: https://www.herts.ac.uk/study/schools-of-study/physics-engineering-and-comp… Volker Steuber Professor of Computational Neuroscience Biocomputation Research Group School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science University of Hertfordshire College Lane, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK biocomputation.herts.ac.uk<http://biocomputation.herts.ac.uk> ________________________________

April 2, 2024

Paper Submission Deadline May 1st: From Animals to Animats: 17th International Conference on the Simulation of Adaptive Behavior (SAB 2024)

by Jeffrey L Krichmar

Dear Colleagues, The submission deadline for SAB 2024 is one month away! More information about the conference can be found at: https://sites.uci.edu/sab2024/ CFP DEADLINE: From Animals to Animats: 17th International Conference on the Simulation of Adaptive Behavior (SAB 2024) CALL FOR PAPERS - SAB 2024 ------------------------------------------- The Simulation of Adaptive Behavior (SAB) interdisciplinary conference brings together researchers in artificial intelligence, artificial life, computer science, cybernetics, ethology, evolutionary biology, neuroscience, robotics, and many other fields, to further our understanding of the behaviors and underlying mechanisms that allow natural animals and artificial agents to adapt and survive in complex, dynamic and uncertain environments. Animats denote the connection between animals and synthetic agents. The conference focuses on models and experiments designed to help characterize and compare various organizational principles and architectures underlying adaptive behavior in real animals and in animats. SAB 2024 solicits contributions dealing with any aspect of adaptive behavior. We especially invite submissions from researchers who connect biology and natural behavior to synthetic agents. Conference papers are peer-reviewed and accepted papers will be published in “From Animals to Animats 17. SAB 2024.” Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence, Springer Nature. Venue -------- CalIT2 Auditorium University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA 92697 USA Important Dates ——————————— May 1, 2024: Deadline for paper submission May 1, 2024: Deadline for Workshop and tutorial proposals June15, 2024: Notice of acceptance June 30, 2024: Camera-ready papers September 9-12: Conference dates Jeff Krichmar Department of Cognitive Sciences 2328 Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA 92697-5100 jkrichma(a)uci.edu http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~jkrichma https://sites.uci.edu/sab2024/

April 1, 2024

World wide VVTNS series: Wednesday, April 3 at 11am (EDT),Manuel Beiran Columbia University | Prediction of neural activity in connectome-constrained recurrent networks

by David Hansel

Important: North America moved to daylight savings time on March 10 Please check the time in your country ------------------- [image: VVTNS.png] https://www.wwtns.online - on twitter: wwtns@TheoreticalWide You are cordially invited to the lecture given by Manuel Beiran Columbia University on the topic of "Prediction of neural activity in connectome-constrained recurrent networks *"* The lecture will be held on zoom on *April 3, 2024*, at *11:00 am EDT * To receive the zoom link: https://www.wwtns.online/register-page *Abstract: *In this talk, I will explain a theory of connectome-constrained neural networks in which a “student” network is trained to reproduce the activity of a ground-truth “teacher”, representing a neural system for which a connectome is available. Unlike standard paradigms with unconstrained connectivity, here both networks have the same connectivity but they have different biophysical parameters, reflecting uncertainty in neuronal and synaptic properties. We find that the connectome is often insufficient to constrain the dynamics of networks that perform a specific task, illustrating the difficulty of inferring function from connectivity alone. However, recordings from a small subset of neurons can remove this degeneracy, producing dynamics in the student that agree with the teacher. Our theory can prioritize which neurons to record from to most efficiently unmeasured network activity. The analysis shows that the solution spaces of connectome-constrained and unconstrained models are qualitatively different, and provides a framework to determine when such models yield consistent dynamics. *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.* -- 'Life is good ..' (Carl van Vreeswijk, 1962-2022) --------------------------------------- David Hansel Directeur de Recherche au CNRS Co-Group leader Cerebral Dynamics Plasticity and Learning lab., CNRS 45 rue des Saints Pères 75270 Paris Cedex 06 Tel (Cell): +33 607508403 - Fax (33).1.49.27.90.62 ᐧ

March 31, 2024

Research Summit on Fundamental Challenges for AI. Mountain View, April 15th.

by Battleday, Ruairidh

We are most excited to announce the AE Spring Summit on Fundamental Challenges for AI (Computer History Museum, Mountain View; April 15th). www.algopreneurship.org This is a day of keynote talks and panels by leading AI researchers on what the open problems for the development of AI algorithms are, and promising scientific and engineering strategies for solving them. We have invited speakers and representatives from the following five technical stakeholder groups to this Summit: - Academia - Tech - FROs / nonprofits - Start-up - VCs / Funders By soliciting answers and discussions from scientists and leaders at these different groups we hope to also examine what their different roles will be in the next period of AI research, and to foster the sharing of research between them. This should be an exciting and productive day, and we have made lower-priced tickets available for students and early-stage researchers. Lunch and a reception will be provided. We look forward to seeing some of you there, and please feel free to share news about the event on social media. The Thinking About Thinking <http://www.thinkingaboutthinking.org> Team Twitter / X: https://bit.ly/springsummitaix LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/springsummitaiLI -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

March 29, 2024

Doctoral studies in the computational neuroscience of decision-making

by Paul Cisek

Doctoral studies in the computational neuroscience of decision-making Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal Applications are invited for doctoral studies in computational neuroscience, in the laboratory of Paul Cisek at the University of Montreal. Our research investigates the neural mechanisms of embodied decision-making and action planning in humans and non-human primates using computational models of the nervous system integrated with behavioral experiments, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and multi-electrode recording in multiple regions of the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. New projects will use virtual reality to study naturalistic behavior in humans and non-human primates and develop theoretical models of how distributed cortical and subcortical circuits govern continuous interaction with a dynamic environment. We are currently seeking a PhD student whose primary project will involve mathematical models that capture and explain data from previous and current experiments and make testable predictions for future work. Students with a strong background in mathematics, engineering, computer science, or physics, coupled with a keen interest in theoretical neuroscience are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in neurophysiology, behavioral neuroscience and/or computational modeling of neural systems is desirable. Interested candidates are asked to send a curriculum vita, copies of academic transcripts, a statement of research interests and the names and contact information for two references, to Paul Cisek (paul.cisek(a)umontreal.ca<mailto:paul.cisek@umontreal.ca>). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but preference will be given to applications received before April 30, 2024. Paul Cisek, PhD Département de neurosciences Université de Montréal Physical: 2960 chemin de la tour, local 4117 Montréal, QC H3T 1J4 CANADA Mailing: CP 6128 Succursale centre-ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7 CANADA e-mail: paul.cisek(a)umontreal.ca<mailto:paul.cisek@umontreal.ca> Web: www.cisek.org/pavel<http://www.cisek.org/pavel>

March 28, 2024

Present at Assembly 2024: Submit your IP session abstract today

by INCF

Present at Assembly 2024: Submit your IP session abstract today! Deadline: April 08 **please share with your networks** Are you interested in speaking at INCF Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024 <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/>? We are seeking 3 investigator presentations for each of the 4 main sessions at INCF Neuroinformatics Assembly 2024: - FAIR neuroscience - Technologies for large-scale computation and team science - Applications of AI to neuroscience research - Closing the discovery loop and digital twins Those selected for investigator presentations will have their registration fee waived. See the full list of topics & apply today <http://bit.ly/INCFabstracts> Poster abstract submissions <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/abstract-submission> and early bird registration <https://neuroinformatics.incf.org/register> are also open - be sure to check them out while time lasts! /The INCF Team

March 28, 2024

Position of Associate Professor in software engineering and Computer Science, University of Lille

by Chaabane Djeraba

The position of Associate Professor in computer science is open at the University of Lille. It is open for the FOX research team (https://www.cristal.univ-lille.fr/equipes/fox/; doi: 10.1109/TAFFC.2019.2949559), which wishes to strengthen research in the field of computer vision, and in particular: * software engineering for computer vision * computer vision and artificial intelligence * spiking neural network and neuromorphic approaches to computer vision * frugal learning for computer vision https://galaxie.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/antares/fichePosteAntee?t… Candidates will be expected to publish in vision-related conferences and journals. In terms of disciplinary teaching, there is a strong need for courses in areas such as software engineering, databases, computer architecture, system programming, networks, cybersecurity; programming and software engineering; algorithms, automata, languages, logic; data, AI, machine learning; HMI, vision, image processing. More generally, the experience of candidates coming to reinforce all the department's teaching units will be appreciated. Contact: Chaabane Djeraba (chaabane.djeraba(a)univ-lille.fr) and Ioan Marius Bilasco (marius.bilasco(a)univ-lille.fr) for further information. Deadline : Friday 29 March 2024, 4 PM, heure de Paris Start date : 01 September 2024 — Chaabane Djeraba Professeur des Universités en Informatique Univ. Lille CRIStAL CNRS - UMR 9189 Cité Scientifique 59650 Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex - France ----oooOooo---- Recent papers of the target research team: DOI: 10.1109/TIP.2021.3129120 DOI: 10.1109/TAFFC.2019.2949559 Doi: 10.1016/j.neucom.2023.126805 Doi: 10.1109/TAFFC.2021.3124142 Doi: 10.1016/j.patcog.2019.04.016 ----ooooOooo----

March 27, 2024

Deadline approaching: Call for Satellite Workshop Proposals - Bernstein Conference 2024

by Alexander Lammers

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops at the Bernstein Conference 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Deadline: April 10, 2024 – 15:00 CEST ____ Bernstein Conference 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. https://www.bernstein-conference.de/ ____ Invited speakers Dmitriy Aronov (Columbia University, USA) Alison Barker (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Germany) 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) Xiao-Jing Wang (New York University, USA) ____ Satellite Workshops Satellite Workshops of the Bernstein Conference 2024 provide a forum to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches, and challenges in computational neuroscience and related fields. Ideally, the format should foster extensive scientific discussions and debates, and go beyond a mere series of talks. https://bernstein-network.de/bernstein-conference/call-for-satellite-worksh… ____ Important Dates Satellite Workshops: September 29 - 30, 2024 * Sunday, Sep 29, 14:00 - 18:30 CEST * Monday, Sep 30, 8:30 - 12:30 CEST Main Conference: September 30 - October 2, 2024 Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: April 10, 2024 – 15:00 CEST Notification of Satellite Workshop acceptance: May 2024 ____ Benefits of participation Satellite Workshop registration is free for speakers of workshops. Workshop organizers (max. 2 per workshop) will receive waivers for the Satellite Workshops and Main Conference. ____ 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), Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

March 27, 2024

Last few days to apply to the Eresfjord School "Mathematical Methods in Computational Neuroscience"

by Ines Samengo

If you are a master, a PhD student, or a postdoc working in computational neuroscience, you may want to consider applying to the Eresfjord summer school "Mathematical Methods in Computational Neuroscience" taking place in Eresfjord, Norway, between the 8th and the 16th July 2024. The deadline is next Sunday 31st March. More information in https://www.compneuronrsn.org/

March 27, 2024

Postdoc/Master position ML

by Sivan Kinreich

Please forward this to those who may be interested: Dr. Kinreich's group at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, NY ( https://www.pmbd2.org/) investigates the structural and functional neural networks (fMRI, EEG), genetics, and other phenotypes associated with the risk and resilience factors underlying the development of brain diseases. We use advanced machine learning algorithms and seek a skilled, motivated, and enthusiastic individual with a Master's degree / postdoctoral fellow to join the lab. The position: Education: Candidates must have a Master's degree or a Ph.D. degree (or towards completion) in computational neuroscience, biology, computer science, data science, or a related discipline. Computer and General Skills: Knowledge of experimental statistics and excellent programming skills are required (Python, Matlab). High-level expertise in neuroimaging analyses is a plus. Previous experience in machine learning analysis and computational modeling is desirable. Takes initiative. Strong communications skills and research productivity, as well as the ability to work effectively in a research team. Duties and Responsibilities: • Managing and analyzing big data, including neuroimaging, genetics, and clinical data • Writing machine learning programs in Python and Matlab to identify patterns in data • Writing manuscripts • Presenting findings at national conferences and local seminars/meetings This job is available immediately for 2 years. Job is open until filled. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications according to NIH scales. Candidates should send their CV, representative publications, and contact information of two references to Sivan Kinreich, email: sivan.kinreich(a)downstate.edu Sivan Kinreich, Ph.D. Department of Psychiatry Prediction Modeling and Biomarker Discovery of Brain Disorders lab (PMBD2) Henri Begleiter Neurodynamics Laboratory SUNY Downstate Medical Center 450 Clarkson Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11203 Tel: 718-270-3322 646-775-8509 Email: sivan.kinreich(a)downstate.edu sivankinreich(a)gmail.com ________________________________ The contents of this email message and any attachments are confidential and are intended solely for the addressee. The information may also be legally privileged. This transmission is sent in trust, for the sole purpose of delivery to the intended recipient. If you have received this transmission in error, any use, reproduction or dissemination of this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify sender by reply email or by (718) 270-HELP.

March 26, 2024

FLUX workshop for MEG data analysis

by Qiaoyu Chen

[cid:e934249d-37a9-41ef-9696-bb8c8f3992cf]Toolkit in Using the FLUX Pipeline for MEG Research Join us for an immersive learning experience using the FLUX pipeline for MEG data analysis Toolkit at the Centre for Human Brain Health at the University of Birmingham from 11th -14th June 2024. The FLUX pipeline<https://www.neuosc.com/single-project>, is an approach for analysing Magnetoencephalography (MEG) data using state-of-of-the art approaches and standards. Whether you are a newcomer to research using MEG or a healthcare professional integrating MEG into clinical practice, this course is designed to elevate your skills and advance your research capabilities. · Gain practical skills: Learn to streamline data preprocessing, event-related field spectral analysis, source modeling, multi-variate pattern analysis, and reporting using the FLUX pipeline. This pipeline is based on the widely used MNE-Python toolbox. · Enhance research practices: Learn the embraces practices for data curation (BIDS), reproducible research, open science, and standardized reporting empowering you to publish reliable and transparent findings. · Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Research: Learn how the FLUX pipeline is used in our MEG research projects. · Engage in interactive learning: Connect with world-leading experts and fellow attendees in discussions, exercises, and networking opportunities, fostering valuable collaborations and knowledge exchange. Application (pre-registration) deadline: 15th April 2024, 11:59 pm (GMT) Join us at the Centre for Human Brain Health for the FLUX toolkit course<https://www.neuosc.com/flux-toolkit>! For pre-registration, please visit https://www.neuosc.com/pre-registration. Contact us at q.chen.5(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:q.chen.5@bham.ac.uk> for further details.

March 26, 2024

Cogitate Connectivity Data Challenge at BIOMAG 2024

by Qiaoyu Chen

We’re thrilled to invite researchers and enthusiasts to the Cogitate Connectivity Data Challenge<https://www.arc-cogitate.com/biomag-2024>, a featured event at BIOMAG 2024<https://www.biomag2024.org/cms/call-for-submissions-2-2/>! [cid:00d63bba-7772-41cb-8330-edb48529bde1] What’s the Challenge About? The Cogitate Connectivity Data Challenge aims to scrutinize contrasting predictions of two neuroscientific theories of consciousness: Global Neuronal Workspace Theory (GNWT) and Integrated Information Theory (IIT). Your task is to explore meaningful measures of functional connectivity using MEG data sets collected from healthy volunteers. MEG data have been collected from approximately 100 participants. The first batch of data will be available from March 25, 2024, setting the stage for your initial discoveries. Following this, the replication dataset will be released on June 15, 2024, offering further opportunities to validate and deepen your findings. Timeline * Data release - Batch 1: March 25, 2024 * Report - First draft/preregistration: June 14, 2024 [23:59 GMT] * Data release - Batch 2: June 15, 2024 * Report - Replication: July 15, 2024 [23:59 GMT] * Competition scoring: July 16 - August 25, 2024 * Competition results: August 26-29 @ BIOMAG 24 Prizes Entries will be evaluated by a board from the Cogitate Consortium, with prizes awarded as follows: * 1st prize: $1000 * 2nd prize: $500 * 3rd prize: $250 The winners will be announced at BIOMAG 2024<https://www.biomag2024.org/cms/call-for-submissions-2-2/> in Sydney (Australia), August 26-29, 2024. For more information, visit the Cogitate Connectivity Data Challenge<https://www.arc-cogitate.com/biomag-2024> website. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at cogitateconnectivitychallenge(a)gmail.com<mailto:cogitateconnectivitychallenge@gmail.com>. Best regards, the Organizing Committee

March 26, 2024