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Final call for Mathematics of Neuroscience Conference: 28th Sept - 1st Oct 2023, Old Town, Rhodes, Greece.

by Battleday, Ruairidh

Fourth International Symposium on the Mathematics of Neuroscience. 28th September - 1st October 2023, Old Town, Rhodes, Greece. —---------------- Final call for general attendance and poster sessions —---------------- One week left before this year’s conference on the mathematics of neuroscience, and last chance to register for general attendance or to present a physical or virtual poster: www.neuromonster.org The line up is looking fantastic, and thank you to everyone that made a submission. Fortunately, flights and accommodation are still reasonably cheap! In this exploratory symposium, we present and discuss general mathematical models of brain function. We give priority to those models that account for brain or behavioural data, or provide simulations to that effect. Keynote Speakers Professor Aapo Hyvärinen (University of Helsinki) Painful intelligence: What AI can tell us about human suffering Professor Janneke Jehee (Donders Institute) Probabilistic representations in the human visual cortex Professor Peter Latham (UCL) What’s the question and how do we answer it? Session Chairs Probabilistic models: Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday (Harvard / MIT) Neurotheory: Dr James Whittington (Oxford / Stanford) Biocomputation: Professor Dan V. Nicolau (King’s College London / Oxford) Representational alignment: Dr Ilia Sucholutsky (Princeton) Confirmed Speakers Professor Andrew Adamatzky (UWE) Professor Dan Nicolau Sr (McGill) Professor Bill Thompson (Berkeley) Professor Bradley Love (UCL) Professor Iris Groen (Amsterdam) Professor Volker Tresp (Munich) Professor Daniel Graham (HWS) Professor Marcelo Bertalmío (SNRC) Professor Mayank Kejriwal (USC) Dr Thomas Parr (UCL) Dr Andreea Bobu (MIT) Dr Ilias Rentzeperis (SNRC) Dr Steeve Laquitaine (The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) Dr. Panagiotis Mougkogiannis (UWE) Dr Jonathan V. Gill (NYU) Dr Tommaso Salvatori (Verses.ai) Dr Charles Cohen (Fidelis.ai) Dr Aslan Satary Dizaji (AutocurriculaLab & Neuro-Inspired Vision) Dr Michael Popov (OMCAN network) Dr Sunder Bukya (University of Hyderabad) Shirin Vafaei (Osaka University) Arvind Saraf (Attention Tag) Shivang Rawat (NYU) Jay Verma (University of Delhi) Declan Campbell (Princeton University) Tyler Giallanza (Princeton University) Carol Upchurch (Louisiana State University) Francesco Guido Rinaldi (SISSA) Hang Li (LMU Munich) Simon Frieder (Oxford) Sabahaddin Taha Solakoglu (Hacettepe University) Hanna Derets (University of Waterloo) Jia Li (KU Leuven) Rahul Jain (Pomona College) The symposium will be held virtually or in-person on the island of Rhodes, Greece from the 28th September - 1st October 2023 (www.neuromonster.org) Submission for poster sessions is by 250-word abstract, emailed to the session chairs at battleday(a)thinkingaboutthinking.org, indicating the desired session. -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Sept. 20, 2023

Multiple Tenure-Track Faculty positions at University of Oregon

by Luca Mazzucato

The University of Oregon is seeking candidates for multiple tenure-track faculty positions at the Assistant Professor level in data science, statistics, and applied math—one in the Math department and two in UO's new Data Science Department. We encourage applications from candidates working in Computational Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence as well as other data science-related fields, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. UO's vibrant neuroscience community includes our Institute of Neuroscience <https://ion.uoregon.edu/>, the NeuroAI Center <https://ion.uoregon.edu/neuroai>, and the International Network for Bio-Inspired Computing <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.in-bic.org/__;!!C5qS4YX3!EH7D1JvIbA…> . Please circulate the two job advertisements below to any potential applicants at your institution who may be interested. -- *Assistant Professor of Mathematics* https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/22919 <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/22919__;!!C5…> The University of Oregon’s Mathematics Department invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position, to begin in fall 2024. Successful candidates will be working at the interface of mathematics with statistical inference, machine learning, and/or related areas of data science. They will have a record of research excellence, potential for excellent teaching, and a commitment to promoting an inclusive community. While this position will be in the Mathematics Department, we value the ability to interact with other units on campus, including (but not limited to) the School of Computer and Data Sciences, the Department of Biology, the Institute of Neuroscience, and the Knight Campus for Accelerating Academic Impact. We welcome applicants with a wide range of academic backgrounds. Questions about this search can be directed to James Murray (jmurray9 at uoregon dot edu). -- *Assistant Professor of Data Science* https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/25568 <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/25568__…> We enthusiastically invite multiple interdisciplinary researchers to join our newly established Department of Data Science as tenure-track faculty colleagues. We invite applications from researchers working in Data Science, broadly defined, including those working in other domains who contribute to data analysis methodology for that domain (e.g., methods and/or applications of artificial intelligence, machine learning, statistical inference, computational/applied mathematics, data visualization, etc) as well as those whose research focuses directly on the methodology itself (e.g., computer science or statistics). We are building the Data Science department to center justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (JDEI), in our department's research, teaching, and organization. Strong faculty candidates will therefore have demonstrated impactful contributions to JDEI. We encourage applications from candidates with a history of collaboration with domain experts. Questions about this search can be directed to Luca Mazzucato (lmazzuca at uoregon dot edu).

Sept. 19, 2023

Two faculty positions at the University of Miami (Department of Psychology)

by Mingbo Cai

The Department of Psychology at the University of Miami, a private institution in a diverse and metropolitan city, invites applications for two full-time, tenure-eligible, or tenure-track faculty members to join our department in August 2024. One position is in the department’s Adult Division, and the other is the Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience division. *Adult Division - *The specific area is open. Area(s) of focus could include, but are not limited to, basic research on affect, cognitive science, and/or mechanistic studies related to mental health or the impact of disparities. We also welcome outstanding scholars with expertise in one or more of the following methods, including lab-based experimental, neurophysiological, computational, and/or mobile health/digital phenotyping. Individuals with interests in data science, including advanced quantitative techniques, big data, and machine learning are also encouraged to apply. *Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience Division - *The specific area is open, but we are particularly interested in individuals who incorporate innovative and sophisticated cognitive, affective, or social neuroscience methods into their research program. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. (non-clinical or clinical) by the appointment start date. Applications will be considered at the rank of Assistant Professor and Associate Professor level. Appointment is expected to start on August 15, 2024. Applications can be submitted via the UM Careers website – Adult Division posting <https://umiami.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMFaculty/job/Coral-Gables-FL/A-S---Ps…> and Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience posting <https://umiami.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UMFaculty/job/Coral-Gables-FL/A-S---Ps…> . Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. Inquiries, requests for information, and nominations can be sent to the Search Committee Chairs (Adult – Kiara Timpano k.timpano(a)miami.edu; Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience – Aaron Heller aheller(a)miami.edu) *------------------------------ * The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Females, Minorities, Protected Veterans, and/or Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here <https://www.hr.miami.edu/careers/eo-ada/index.html> for additional information.

Sept. 19, 2023

Postdoctoral positions for CRCNS project on Role of ACh on Memory

by Alex Roxin

*Call for one experimental and one theoretical postdoctoral position in the framework of a collaborative (US/Spain) CRCNS project on the role of acetylcholine on memory.* The Wang lab at the Max Plack Florida Institute for Neuroscience, and the Computational Neuroscience group at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica (Barcelona, Spain) are looking for postdoctoral researchers for an experimental-theoretical collaboration to shed light on the role of acetylcholine (ACh) in the formation and long-term dynamics of memory in rodents. This collaborative project will combine large-scale two-photon imaging recordings of in-vivo neuronal and ACh dynamics (Wang lab), with computational modeling and analysis (Roxin group) to investigate the role of ACh in the emergence of internally generated sequences in hippocampal CA1 cells. We will furthermore track the long-term dynamics of the resulting patterns of neuronal activity to characterize the degree of representational drift and elucidate the underlying mechanisms through network modeling. *Call for Experimental Postdoctoral Researcher*: The experimental postdoctoral position will be based at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, in the laboratory of Yingxue Wang.The ideal candidates should have a background in neuroscience or related field, and are interested in understanding the neuronal mechanisms of learning and memory. Previous experience with electrophysiology and/or two-photon imaging in behaving animals, quantitative data analysis and computer programming is highly preferred. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well in a team are required. The three year project will begin immediately. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience is part of the Jupiter Neuroscience Research Campus which also includes UF Scripps Biomedical Research and Florida Atlantic University. It provides a flourishing interdisciplinary research environment for neuroscience. We offer outstanding benefits and salary compensation above the NIH scales. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Yingxue Wang at Yingxue.Wang(a)mpfi.org. *Call for Theoretical Postdoctoral Researcher*: The theoretical postdoctoral position will be based at the Centre de Recerca Matemàtica, located on the campus of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain. The postdoctoral researcher will combine the analysis of experimental data from the Wang Lab with computational modeling in order to study the physiological and network mechanisms underlying memory formation and representational drift. This work will involve large-scale numerical simulation as well as network analysis using methods from dynamical systems theory and statistical physics. Strong coding and mathematical skills are a must. This is a three-year position which is expected to begin in early 2024. Interested candidates should contact Alex Roxin at alexander.roxin(a)gmail.com. This project is jointly funded by the National Institutes of Health (USA) and the Agencia Estatal de Investigación (Spain) in the framework of Collaborative Research in Computational Neuroscience program (CRCNS). As such, the experimental and theoretical teams will work closely together, including regular online meetings and an annual in-person meeting to be held alternatingly in Florida and Barcelona. The postdoctoral researchers will be expected to work in a collaborative fashion with members of both teams to ensure a unified research effort. -- Alex Roxin Computational Neuroscience Group Centre de Recerca Matemàtica Campus de Bellaterra, Edifici C 08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona) https://sites.google.com/site/alexanderroxin/home

Sept. 19, 2023

post-doc position, RL and Comp Neuro, Moreno-Bote and Jonsson Labs

by Ruben Moreno Bote

*Post-doctoral position* *Reinforcement Learning and Computational Neuroscience, Moreno-Bote and Jonsson Labs* *University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain* We are looking for strong post-doctoral candidates interested in joining the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote lab and the group of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning of Anders Jonsson. We are looking for excellent post-doctoral candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background. The publication record of the candidate should be very strong in their respective discipline. The candidate will develop state of the art theory and models of RL inspired by computational neuroscience to understand natural behavior based on reward-free approaches. Related papers on the focus of the project are: [2205.10316] Seeking entropy: complex behavior from intrinsic motivation to occupy action-state path space (arxiv.org) <https://arxiv.org/abs/2205.10316> [2302.01098] A general Markov decision process formalism for action-state entropy-regularized reward maximization (arxiv.org) <https://arxiv.org/abs/2302.01098> The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. TCN lab (https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by MdM and salary is competitive. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format, a 1 page-long project in pdf format, and names and email addresses of 2 referees should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu Informal inquiries are welcome. DEADLINE: until the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between November 2023 and April 2024 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter Full Professor and ICREA Academia Director of the Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience Group Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn https://twitter.com/morenobote <https://twitter.com/morenobote?lang=ca>

Sept. 19, 2023

Post-doc in Paris (Benoît Girard, ISIR, Sorbonne Université, Paris)

by Benoît Girard

A 18-month postdoc position is opened at the Institute of Intelligent Systems and Robotics (ISIR, Sorbonne Université & CNRS). We are looking for a young and enthusiast researcher trained in computational neuroscience or neuro-robotics to develop a computational model of catatonia. It is based on a new theory and preliminary results obtained in the lab (Aubin et al., 2022), dealing with the study of alteration of dynamic regimes observed in models of cortico-baso-thalamo-cortical loops. Results obtained with a population model have to be reproduced and extended with a spiking model, as well as connected to motor control module so as to investigate the motor symptoms of catatonia. The position could start as soon as a candidate is found. The project builds on an ongoing collaboration between Benoît Girard (ISIR, computational neuroscience), David Cohen (ISIR and Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, clinical expertise) and Ghilès Mostafaoui (ETIS at Cergy-Pontoise Université, robotics and motor control) Please contact us (benoit.girard(a)isir.upmc.fr, david.cohen(a)aphp.fr, ghiles.mostafaoui(a)u-cergy.fr) for further information. Aubin, L., Batailley, B., Raffin, M., Mostafaoui, G., Cohen, D. and Girard B. (2022) Exploration of the respective roles of cortex and basal ganglia in catatonia with a computational model. Poster presented at FENS2022 and NeuralNet2022. -- Benoît Girard, ISIR, Sorbonne Université/CNRS Pyramide T55/65, CC 173 4 place Jussieu, 75252 Paris Cedex http://people.isir.upmc.fr/girard/ Submit your replications to ReScience: https://rescience.github.io/

Sept. 18, 2023

Scientific Computing Associate - Biophysical Modeling - Janelia Farm Research Campus

by Ahmed El Hady

Dear all, Below an exciting opportunity in Janelia Farm Research Campus to be part of an exciting collaboration if you are into scientific computing, software development and interaction with state of the art biophysics experiments: The Scientific Computing Associate (SCA) <https://www.janelia.org/support-team/scientific-computing-software/scientif…> II position represents an alternative to traditional scientific roles (e.g. postdoc) and provides an ideal environment to establish a career in computational research or software engineering. The position aims at developing qualifications and experience in computational research and professional software engineering in a research environment that enables the candidate to pursue their future career in science or industry. For each project, the SCA will be paired with an experienced software engineer and a member from the specific lab, often the lab head, to quickly learn techniques and about the project itself. The developed software will be openly accessible and the SCA will have the opportunity to become a lead contributor and to potentially publish results. The SCA position is a time-limited appointment for 12 to 24 months, with discretionary renewal for a 12-month term (maximum of 36 months in total). *What We Provide:* * A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits. * The opportunity to collaborate with skilled scientists and software engineers and work alongside computational and experimental enthusiasts * The ability to work as an independent scientist * An exciting and inspiring work environment at HHMI Janelia *What You’ll Do:* We are seeking an SCA to join our team at HHMI Janelia to lead a project aimed at /in silico/ biophysical modeling of extracellular ion dynamics in the mammalian brain. Dr. Kayvon Pedram <https://www.pedramlab.com/> will provide mentorship on biochemical aspects of the work; Dr. Ahmed El Hady <https://www.ab.mpg.de/person/111828/2736> will provide mentorship in theoretical neuroscience; and Dr. Stephan Preibisch <https://www.janelia.org/people/stephan-preibisch> and his team will provide mentorship in algorithm development and software engineering. Successful candidates will be interested in exerting intellectual and operational freedom to tackle research objectives at the intersection of these three fields. In brief, neurons convey information through electric pulses, which are generated by rapid ion transport between the cell’s interior and the local extracellular environment. These action potentials propagate from one neuron to the next via chemical synapses, where neurotransmitter-containing vesicles are released into the extracellular space for detection by neighboring neurons. The process of neurotransmitter release itself depends on a rapid, synaptically localized calcium exchange with the extracellular environment. While it is widely understood that transmembrane ion gradients are a crucial aspect of the biophysics that underlies communication within neuronal networks, there is a much more limited understanding of how molecules in the extracellular space, which are heterogenous and actively remodeled throughout the brain, contribute to neuronal communication over a variety of spatial and temporal scales. You will build theoretical frameworks and computational models to explore how extracellular factors, such as ion-ion interactions and mechanical perturbations, influence the diffusion of charged molecules, and subsequently, neuronal excitability. You can expect a close, bidirectional relationship between your theory/modeling efforts and experiments ongoing in the lab and will have the opportunity to test theoretical predictions in the laboratory, if desired. A detailed project description and bibliography will be provided to candidates at the interview stage. *What You Bring:* * M.S. or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Neuroscience, or related fields (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Engineering). * Extensive coding experience * Collaborative and collegial attitude toward staff at all levels. For more information and application , please check here:https://hhmi.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External/job/Janelia-Research… <https://hhmi.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External/job/Janelia-Research-Camp…>

Sept. 17, 2023

Postdoctoral Position in Deep Learning/Computer Vision with a Focus on 2D Pose Estimation

by Majid Mohajerani

Position Overview: The Mohajerani lab (https://douglas.research.mcgill.ca/majid-mohajerani/) at McGill University is seeking individuals with expertise and experience in video analysis to fill a postdoctoral position that will span three years, ideally starting in November-December 2023. The Postdoctoral position will be based in the vibrant city of Montreal, offering an exceptional quality of life with its rich cultural diversity, culinary delights, and dynamic arts scene. As part of this role, you will work at McGill University, known for its world-class research and academic excellence, providing an intellectually stimulating and inspiring environment for your career growth. The preferred candidate for this Postdoctoral opportunity should hold a Ph.D. in deep learning, computer vision, engineering, or a related field, along with a distinguished research track record. A solid foundation in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data mining is essential. Proficiency in programming, analytical problem-solving skills, and strong organizational capabilities are prerequisites. Previous hands-on experience with deep neural networks is obligatory. We are searching for a dedicated researcher who thrives on tackling challenges and possesses expertise and enthusiasm for developing video analysis techniques utilizing deep learning methodologies. The recruited candidate will be responsible for conducting research within the PREMIERE project and for participating in the related Work Package activities. The successful candidate must possess a collaborative spirit, as this role involves cooperation with multiple institutions and investigators. Key qualifications: - Strong expertise in deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras). - Demonstrated expertise in applying Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Transformers for temporal sequence analysis, or hybrid models such as Convolutional-LSTM architectures. - Experience in research and/or development for action recognition, body pose and motion estimation, multi-objects tracking, activity recognition, scene understanding, etc. - Expert knowledge of the principles, algorithms, and tools of deep learning, including models, training strategies, training dataset building, loss functions, quality metrics, etc. - Excellent communication and collaboration skills. How to Apply: If you’re passionate about machine learning and want to work in a dynamic and exciting environment, please apply with your resume and a cover letter describing your relevant experience and why you’re the right fit for this role. We strive to ensure that our team is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. All qualified applicants, including women and members of visible minority groups, are welcome to apply. The application review will start on Oct 15th till the positions are filled. If you meet all the requirements, please fill out the following form. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6jDyhrjyE8nFVSokgn3vWpzEjfLhUi83…

Sept. 15, 2023

Tenure track faculty position Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Psychology at UMass Amherst

by Tejas Savalia

Dear all, The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (http://www.umass.edu/pbs/) is inviting applications for a tenure track, academic year, faculty position at the Assistant Professor level in its Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Psychology program, starting in Fall 2024. We are seeking outstanding applicants with expertise in any area of cognitive psychology or cognitive neuroscience, including interdisciplinary fields connected to cognitive psychology, whose work complements and broadens existing strengths in our program. We are known for interdisciplinary and cross-area collaborations and innovation. The program has current strengths in attention, decision-making, psycholinguistics, and mathematical modeling, with connections to our Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, Developmental Science, and Social Psychology programs. Across the university, our faculty have strong connections to Linguistics, Information and Computer Sciences, and Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, as well as the Initiative in Cognitive Science, the Computational and Social Science Institute, the Institute for Diversity Sciences, and the Institute for Applied Life Sciences. The Department is interested in candidates who have demonstrated the ability to contribute to the inclusive excellence and diversity mission of the department, college, and university in research, teaching, and/or outreach. Requirements - Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology or a closely related field at the time of appointment. - A developing record of demonstrated excellence in research consistent with an early career stage. - Strong methodological skills and a theoretically-based research program. - Demonstrated ability or strong promise of extramural funding. - A strong commitment to undergraduate education, graduate training and mentoring, and diversity and inclusion. About UMass Amherst UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region. Application Instructions Along with the application, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, statement of teaching philosophy, statement of contributions and future plans to diversity, equity and inclusion (see below), samples of representative research papers, and contact information for three (3) professional references. We will begin to review applications on October 1, 2023, and will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. Please submit materials online to: http://careers.massachusetts.edu/cw/en-us/job/520191?lApplicationSubSourceI… As part of our commitment to supporting our multicultural community, we seek an individual with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and one who will understand and embrace university initiatives and aspirations. The statement of contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion should identify past experiences and future goals. These contributions may result from lived experiences, scholarships, and/or mentoring, teaching, and outreach activities. (https://www.cns.umass.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion) The University is committed to active recruitment of a diverse faculty and student body. The University of Massachusetts is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities and encourages applications from these and other protected group members. Because broad diversity is essential to an inclusive climate and critical to the University’s goals of achieving excellence in all areas, we will holistically assess the many qualifications of each applicant and favorably consider an individual’s record working with students and colleagues with broadly diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in educational, research or other work activities. We will also favorably consider experience overcoming or helping others overcome barriers to an academic career and degree. Best, Tejas Savalia

Sept. 15, 2023

Fwd: CFP: UniReps Workshop on Unifying Representations in Neural Models, NeurIPS 2023, DEADLINE 04 Oct

by Clementine Domine

We are thrilled to announce the first edition of the UniReps Workshop on Unifying Representations in Neural Models <https://unireps.org/>! To be held on Dec 15, 2023 at NeurIPS 2023 <https://nips.cc/>, New Orleans, USA. Our workshop aims to explore the emergence of similar representations from diverse neural models, both artificial and biological, when exposed to similar stimuli. We will investigate this phenomenon's reasons, conditions, and methods and explore the potential for unifying these representations into a shared framework. Additionally, we will delve into exciting applications such as model merging, stitching, and reusing independently trained modules. Our primary objective is to foster collaboration and idea exchange among Machine Learning, Neuroscience, and Cognitive Science researchers. We aim to create a platform for interdisciplinary discussions and collaborations by bringing together experts from diverse backgrounds. *Check our Call For Papers <https://unireps.org/call-for-papers/> below. * *For any additional information check our website <https://unireps.org/>, Twitter profile <https://twitter.com/unireps>, Slack workspace <https://join.slack.com/t/unirepsunifyi-stf5976/shared_invite/zt-22vr60uon-G…>, or contact us at unireps.organizers(a)gmail.com <unireps.organizers(a)gmail.com>.* Call For Papers Neural models, whether in biological or artificial systems, tend to learn similar representations when exposed to similar stimuli. This phenomenon has been observed in various scenarios, e.g., when individuals are exposed to the same stimulus or in different initializations of the same neural architecture. Similar representations occur in settings where data is acquired from multiple modalities (e.g., text and image representations of the same entity) or when observations in a single modality are acquired under different conditions (e.g., multiview learning). The emergence of these similar representations has sparked interest in the fields of Neuroscience, Artificial Intelligence, and Cognitive Science. This workshop aims to get a unified view on this topic and facilitate the exchange of ideas and insights across these fields, focusing on three key points: When: Understanding the patterns by which these similarities emerge in different neural models and developing methods to measure them. Why: Investigating the underlying causes of these similarities in neural representations, considering both artificial and biological models. What for: Exploring and showcasing applications in modular deep learning, including model merging, reuse, stitching, efficient strategies for fine-tuning, and knowledge transfer between models and across modalities. Topics A non-exhaustive list of the preferred topics includes: - Model merging, stitching, and reuse - Representational alignment - Identifiability in neural models - Symmetry and equivariance in NNs - Learning dynamics - Disentangled representations - Multiview representation learning - Representation similarity analysis - Linear mode connectivity - Similarity-based learning - Multimodal learning - Similarity measures in NNs Important Dates - Paper submission deadline: Oct 04, 2023 – Submit on OpenReview <https://openreview.net/group?id=NeurIPS.cc/2023/Workshop/UniReps> - Final decisions to authors: Oct 27, 2023 Tracks Submissions to the workshop are organized in two tracks, both requiring novel and unpublished results: an Extended abstract track, which will address early-stage results, insightful negative findings, opinion pieces, and a Proceedings track, which will address complete papers to be published in a dedicated workshop proceedings volume. Both tracks will be included in the workshop poster session to give an opportunity to authors to present their work, and a subset of the submissions will be selected for a spotlight talk session during the workshop. Paper FormatThe full paper submissions must be at most 9 pages long (excluding references and supplementary materials) and anonymized. We will follow the Neurips general conference submission criteria for papers - for details please see: NeurIPS Call For Papers <https://nips.cc/Conferences/2023/CallForPapers>. As a note, the reviewers will not be required to review the supplementary materials, so ensure your paper is self-contained. For the extended non-archival abstracts please use the same template but limit the submission to 4 pages, excluding references. The submission site will have an option to differentiate full papers and extended abstracts. Please make sure to use the NeurIPS LaTeX template <https://media.neurips.cc/Conferences/NeurIPS2023/Styles/neurips_2023.tex> and style file <https://media.neurips.cc/Conferences/NeurIPS2023/Styles/neurips_2023.sty>.

Sept. 15, 2023

Postdoc on Dravet syndrome modeling (Inria, BCAM, Achucarro)

by desroche

Dear all, We have funds for a two-year postdoc on Dravet syndrome modeling. This is part of an international collaboration between Inria (Bordeaux, Montpellier, Sophia Antipolis, France) and BCAM - the Basque Center for Applied Mathematics (Bilbao, Spain), involving Fabien Campillo, Pierre Del Moral, Mathieu Desroches and Serafim Rodrigues. The postdoc will be based at Inria, in Montpellier. The aim of the project is to develop a multiscale model of Dravet syndrome, from ionic channels of interacting neurons to large neural populations. We will use various modeling frameworks, adapted to the scale, from piecewise-deterministic Markov processes to mean-field formalism. The postdoc will perform a mathematical analysis of the models, extensive numerical simulations as well as data analysis using neural recordings from our experimental partners. Regarding profiles that we are seeking, familiarity of the candidate with mathematical modeling in Neuroscience and Markov processes. Ability and willingness to do programming, as well as analyse experimental data, will also be a strong point to select candidates. Please apply online via the following page: https://jobs.inria.fr/public/classic/en/offres/2023-06688 Best, Mathieu Desroches. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Mathieu Desroches Research Director (Directeur de Recherche) MathNeuro <https://team.inria.fr/mathneuro/> Project Team Leader Centre Inria d'Université Côte d'Azur, France https://www-sop.inria.fr/members/Mathieu.Desroches/

Sept. 15, 2023

Scientific Computing Associate - Biophysical Modeling - Janelia Farm Research Campus

by Ahmed El Hady

Below an exciting opportunity in Janelia Farm Research Campus to be part of an exciting collaboration if you are into scientific computing, software development and interaction with state of the art biophysics experiments: The Scientific Computing Associate (SCA) <https://www.janelia.org/support-team/scientific-computing-software/scientif…> II position represents an alternative to traditional scientific roles (e.g. postdoc) and provides an ideal environment to establish a career in computational research or software engineering. The position aims at developing qualifications and experience in computational research and professional software engineering in a research environment that enables the candidate to pursue their future career in science or industry. For each project, the SCA will be paired with an experienced software engineer and a member from the specific lab, often the lab head, to quickly learn techniques and about the project itself. The developed software will be openly accessible and the SCA will have the opportunity to become a lead contributor and to potentially publish results. The SCA position is a time-limited appointment for 12 to 24 months, with discretionary renewal for a 12-month term (maximum of 36 months in total). *What We Provide:* * A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits. * The opportunity to collaborate with skilled scientists and software engineers and work alongside computational and experimental enthusiasts * The ability to work as an independent scientist * An exciting and inspiring work environment at HHMI Janelia *What You’ll Do:* We are seeking an SCA to join our team at HHMI Janelia to lead a project aimed at /in silico/ biophysical modeling of extracellular ion dynamics in the mammalian brain. Dr. Kayvon Pedram <https://www.pedramlab.com/> will provide mentorship on biochemical aspects of the work; Dr. Ahmed El Hady <https://www.ab.mpg.de/person/111828/2736> will provide mentorship in theoretical neuroscience; and Dr. Stephan Preibisch <https://www.janelia.org/people/stephan-preibisch> and his team will provide mentorship in algorithm development and software engineering. Successful candidates will be interested in exerting intellectual and operational freedom to tackle research objectives at the intersection of these three fields. In brief, neurons convey information through electric pulses, which are generated by rapid ion transport between the cell’s interior and the local extracellular environment. These action potentials propagate from one neuron to the next via chemical synapses, where neurotransmitter-containing vesicles are released into the extracellular space for detection by neighboring neurons. The process of neurotransmitter release itself depends on a rapid, synaptically localized calcium exchange with the extracellular environment. While it is widely understood that transmembrane ion gradients are a crucial aspect of the biophysics that underlies communication within neuronal networks, there is a much more limited understanding of how molecules in the extracellular space, which are heterogenous and actively remodeled throughout the brain, contribute to neuronal communication over a variety of spatial and temporal scales. You will build theoretical frameworks and computational models to explore how extracellular factors, such as ion-ion interactions and mechanical perturbations, influence the diffusion of charged molecules, and subsequently, neuronal excitability. You can expect a close, bidirectional relationship between your theory/modeling efforts and experiments ongoing in the lab and will have the opportunity to test theoretical predictions in the laboratory, if desired. A detailed project description and bibliography will be provided to candidates at the interview stage. *What You Bring:* * M.S. or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Physics, Neuroscience, or related fields (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Engineering). * Extensive coding experience * Collaborative and collegial attitude toward staff at all levels. For more information and application , please check here: https://hhmi.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External/job/Janelia-Research-Camp…

Sept. 15, 2023

Postdoc in Barcelona

by Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo (Prof.)

We are looking for a postdoc to study single cell recordings in humans, performed in epileptic patients for curative surgery. The position will be in the recently established group of Prof. Quian Quiroga at the Hospital del Mar Research Institute, in Barcelona (https://www.imim.es<https://www.imim.es/>). The project will investigate concept cells (a.k.a. Jennifer Aniston neurons) – that means, neurons in the hippocampus and surrounding areas that selectively fire to specific concepts, like different pictures and the written or spoken name of a particular person (e.g. Quian Quiroga et al, Nature 2005; Quian Quiroga, Cell 2019), which are involved in declarative memory functions. For more details see: https://web.archive.org/web/20220108024112/https://www2.le.ac.uk/centres/cs…<https://web.archive.org/web/20220108024112/https:/www2.le.ac.uk/centres/csn…> The successful candidate will contribute to performing recordings with patients and the analysis / modelling of the data to investigate the role of these neurons in memory. The candidate should have very good quantitative skills (data processing and programing, e.g. in Matlab) and a strong background or interest in neuroscience. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof. Rodrigo Quian Quiroga (rquian(a)imim.es) To apply see instructions in this link: https://www.imim.es/ofertes/es_detall-oferta-temporals.html?id=2343 Review of applications will start on the 2nd October 2023, and will continue until the position is filled. Best, Rodrigo Quian Quiroga

Sept. 14, 2023

1st EBRAINS National Node Germany Workshop ***26.09.2023 in Berlin, Germany***

by Frings, Maren

Dear Colleagues, We would like to kindly invite you to participate the 1st EBRAINS National Node Germany Workshop which will take place on September 26, 2023 in Berlin from 09:00-13:30 CET. Guest Speakers: Dr. Seán Froudist-Walsh, University of Bristol Prof. Dr. Thomas Wachtler, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich Prof. Dr. Lena Oden, FernUni Hagen & FZ Jülich Prof. Dr. Bryan Strange, Technical University Madrid Dr. Andreas Rowald, Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg Prof. Dr. Petra Ritter, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin Prof. Dr. Thanos Manos, Cergy Paris University For further details and for registration please browse to our <https://flagship.kip.uni-heidelberg.de/jss/HBPm?m=SgD&mI=254> event website. The EBRAINS National Node Germany (NNG) invites to the 1st EBRAINS NNG Workshop as a back-to-back event of the Bernstein Conference 2023 in Berlin, Germany. You will hear about the EBRAINS RI, its usage, an Expert Discussion on Digital tools to bridge the gap between experimental and computational neuroscience and will have the opportunity to network during our NNG lunch. <https://ebrains.eu> EBRAINS is a unique digital Research Infrastructure (RI), created by the EU-funded Human Brain Project. It is an open platform providing an extensive range of data and tools to enhance brain-related research. EBRAINS is a pan-European distributed network of services, that will in the future be organized through National Nodes. The <https://www.ebrains.eu/national-nodes/germany> EBRAINS NNG currently encompasses about 40 universities and research institutions across Germany joining forces to develop a common scientific and technical strategy, addressing the major scientific challenges of our time. The EBRAINS NNG partners offer unique services, including science liaison activities, for basic neuroscience, medical applications, and industry in the fields of: * High-Performance Computing * Neuromorphic Computing * Artificial Intelligence * Simulation * Robotics * Information privacy and security Programme Committee: Nicola Palomero-Gallagher, Petra Ritter, Fabrice Morin, Francesca Cavallaro, Björn Kindler, Sandra Diaz, Maren Frings. In case of further questions please dont hesitate to contact ebrains-nng(a)fz-juelich.de <mailto:ebrains-nng@fz-juelich.de> Kind regards Maren Frings on behalf of the Programme Committee Dr. Maren Frings Project Manager, EBRAINS National Node Germany Jülich Supercomputing Centre Institute for Advanced Simulation Tel +49 2461 61-6431 Fax +49 2461 61-6656 <http://www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc> www.fz-juelich.de/ias/jsc ------------------------------------------------------------------- Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH 52425 Jülich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Jülich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Düren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Stefan Müller Geschäftsführung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Dr. Ir. Pieter Jansens, Prof. Dr. Astrid Lambrecht, Prof. Dr. Frauke Melchior -------------------------------------------------------------------

Sept. 14, 2023

[jobs] 3.5-year PhD Scholarship in Human-like performance in neuromorphic robots

by Di Nuovo, Alessandro

All applications must be submitted using the online application form<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…>. To apply, click here<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…> For information on how to apply please visit https://www.shu.ac.uk/research/degrees<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…> About the Project This scholarship is to support the Horizon Europe project PRIMI: Performance in Human Robot Interaction via Mental Imagery, led by Professor Alessandro Di Nuovo (scientific coordinator). The project aims to create the next-gen humanoid robots with efficient computation, high cognition, and autonomy, by synergistically combining interdisciplinary research development in neurophysiology, psychology, machine intelligence, cognitive mechatronics, neuromorphic engineering, and humanoid robotics. The PRIMI project seeks to create more capable interactive robots with advanced abilities, able to provide innovative and personalised services. Prototypes will be used in stroke rehabilitation studies. You will join the Smart Interactive Technologies (SIT) research laboratory; a vibrant interdisciplinary group, led by Prof. Alessandro Di Nuovo, that conducts world-leading research on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. The group is currently running several research projects worth over £2.5 million funding from the European Commission and UKRI. This PhD project will focus on machine intelligence techniques and neuromorphic computing technologies to create active inference models for interactive learning in robots with human-like performance. Background Humans can learn faster with less data by reducing surprise or uncertainty by making predictions based on internal models. Indeed, neurophysiology and developmental psychology increasingly highlight the embodied nature of intelligence, which is shaped the experiences acquired through the body, such as manipulatives, gestures, and movements. To overcome the current limitations, the research methodology will adopt the developmental neuromorphic approach with cognitive agents that are embodied in humanoid robotic platforms. Developmental robotics fundamentally differs from traditional machine learning as it targets task-independent self-determined learning via interaction with the environment rather than task-specific inference over selected, human-edited sensory data. It also differs from traditional cognitive robotics because it focuses on the processes that allow the formation of cognitive capabilities rather than these capabilities themselves. Neuromorphic computing investigates large-scale processing systems that support natural neuronal computations through spike-driven communication to imitate the efficient neuro-synaptic framework of the physical brain. Compared to traditional approaches, key advantages of neuromorphic computing are energy efficiency, execution speed and robustness against local failures. Eligibility Candidates should have (or expect to obtain before the start of the PhD) a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree (2.1) or equivalent in Computer Science, Neuroscience, or a closely related subject. To be eligible for a waiver of the international fees, candidates should have a strong Master's degree and/or scientific publications on the subject of the research project. For further details on entry requirements, please click here<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…> How to apply All applications must be submitted using the online application form<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…>. To apply, click here<https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=160616&type=184&DID=6…>. We strongly recommend you contact the lead academic, Prof. Alessandro Di Nuovo, a.dinuovo(a)shu.ac.uk<javascript:void(0)>, to discuss your application. Start date for studentship: February 2024 Interviews are scheduled for: TBC

Sept. 14, 2023

looking for a postdoc on modeling / optimization of brain stimulation

by Dana Brooks

Postdoctoral Research Fellow at UMass Boston A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Brain Stimulation & Simulation Lab <https://www1.coe.neu.edu/%7Erampersad/index.html>, directed by Dr. Sumientra Rampersad, in the Department of Physics at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Our lab focuses on investigating electromagnetic brain stimulation through computational methods and experiments with healthy volunteers. This position is funded by a newly awarded 5-year NIH R01 <https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10719222> grant with the goal to investigate a novel form of brain stimulation called transcranial temporal interference stimulation (TIS) and to optimize and translate it into an effective and efficient neuromodulation method for academic research and clinical practice. The fellow will develop novel optimization methods for high-density TIS and supervise a PhD student who will conduct simulations and optimizations using finite element modeling. The goal is to provide noninvasive and spatially specific treatment options to patients with brain disorders resistant to existing approaches. You will join a multidisciplinary team with expertise in computational modeling and optimization, human and primate electrophysiology, cellular and systems neuroscience, and biomedical engineering. You will also have the opportunity to work on other cutting-edge projects involving several brain stimulation methods including tCS, TMS, ECoG, sEEG and TTF (see lab website <https://www1.coe.neu.edu/%7Erampersad/index.html> for examples). Our collaborators at Northeastern University, the University of Utah, Harvard University, MGH, and the University of Washington, provide us access to specialized software and unique clinical data. The fellow will be mentored by Dr. Rampersad (UMass Boston) and Dr. Dana Brooks (Northeastern). This is an outstanding career development opportunity to work with leaders in the field of brain stimulation with an exceptional record of collaboration and mentoring. Required qualifications include a PhD in physics, math, electrical, biomedical engineering, or equivalent, expertise in either brain stimulation modeling or computational optimization methods (preferred both), a track record of conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications, strong verbal and written communication skills, and proficiency in Matlab or Python. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of extension provided satisfactory progress is made. To apply, send a cover letter and CV to Dr. Rampersad (sumientra.rampersad(a)umb.edu) with the subject “TIS postdoc”. Please describe in detail your experience with optimization, brain stimulation, FEM, coding, project management, and mentoring students.

Sept. 14, 2023

Faculty postion at Harvard bridging computational neuroscience and AI

by Blum, Kenneth I.

The Center for Brain Science (CBS) and Kempner Institute for the Study of Natural and Artificial Intelligence at Harvard University seek a tenure-track faculty member working across the fields of computational neuroscience and a machine learning approach to AI. Please forward this information to any interested candidates. Applications should be submitted to this site: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/12751. ***** HARVARD UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR BRAIN SCIENCE and KEMPNER INSTITUTE FACULTY POSITION The Center for Brain Science (CBS) and Kempner Institute for the Study of Natural and Artificial Intelligence at Harvard University seek a tenure-track faculty member to lead an innovative research program working across the fields of Computational Neuroscience and Machine Learning to discover how brain computation can benefit artificial systems and how principles of computation and learning in artificial systems can be used to understand the brain. Current faculty use a variety of approaches to learn how brains compute and govern cognition and behavior. The successful candidate will be appointed an Institute Investigator within the Kempner Institute and will hold an academic appointment in an appropriate department in the life or physical sciences in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University. A full list of potential departments can be found here: science.fas.harvard.edu/pages/about<https://science.fas.harvard.edu/pages/about>. CBS (cbs.fas.harvard.edu<https://cbs.fas.harvard.edu/>) fosters interactions across disciplinary boundaries—faculty from several academic departments have neighboring labs and share common research facilities and meeting space; its connections also reach out across the University. The Kempner Institute (harvard.edu/kempner-institute<https://www.harvard.edu/kempner-institute/>) is building a community of scholars, who work across boundaries and fields to advance our understanding of intelligence, broadly speaking. Investigators will join a dynamic community of researchers to study intelligence from biological, cognitive, engineering, and computational perspectives. A doctoral degree in the life and physical sciences, or a related discipline is required by the time the appointment begins. Candidates should have demonstrated excellence in both research and teaching. A strong doctoral record is required and postdoctoral experience preferred. Teaching will include offerings at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply, please use this link to submit a cover letter; curriculum vitae; three-page research statement; statement of teaching and advising philosophy; statement describing efforts to encourage diversity, inclusion, and belonging, including past, current, and anticipated future contributions in these areas; and up to three publications: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/12751. Please also submit contact information, including email addresses, for 3-5 people who will be asked by a system-generated email to upload a letter of recommendation once the candidate’s application has been submitted. Three letters of recommendation are required, and the application is considered complete only when at least three letters have been received. At least one letter must come from someone who has not served as the candidate’s undergraduate, graduate, or postdoctoral advisor. We will begin considering applications as they are received, but all materials, including letters of reference, should be submitted by October 15, 2023. Note that there are three additional faculty searches ongoing currently with the Kempner Institute at Harvard University. One is in partnership with Psychology, another with Computer Science, and a third with Applied Mathematics. If applying to more than one, please read the search criteria carefully. The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. We strongly welcome applications from persons from underrepresented groups. Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, military service, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or other protected status.

Sept. 13, 2023

Open faculty position in "cognition" at the University of Rochester

by Jacobs, Robert

See the job ad below for an open faculty position in "cognition" at the University of Rochester. People interested in computational modeling are strongly encouraged to apply. Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Human or Animal Cognition The University of Rochester’s Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences seeks to hire an outstanding early-career candidate in the area of Animal or Human Cognition. Appointment will be at the tenure-track Assistant Professor level. We particularly welcome applications from candidates researching cognition through non-invasive behavioral, computational or neuroimaging methods. Animal researchers may be either field or laboratory based. Areas of study may center on any aspect of cognition, with an emphasis on higher-level cognitive processes such as decision-making, learning and memory, concepts, communication and language, reasoning, metacognition, and collective cognition. Successful candidates will develop a research program that establishes novel collaborations within the department and across the university, and will also be part of a university–wide community engaged in graduate and undergraduate education. The University of Rochester is a distinguished research university, and the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences is a dynamic department with interests in the study of perception, motor control, learning, cognition, language, and development through combined neurobiological, computational, and behavioral research (http://www.bcs.rochester.edu/<http://www.bcs.rochester.edu/index.html>). It offers outstanding opportunities for developing a research program, highly ranked doctoral programs, a vibrant undergraduate major, and a collaborative environment. There is excellent collaboration among faculty across areas, and close ties to other groups in the University, particularly the Center for Visual Science, Neuroscience, Psychology, Education, Psychiatry, the Center for Language Sciences, Computer Science, Data Science, the Eastman School of Music, and Biology. The city of Rochester, NY is a diverse, energetic, and family-friendly community located on Lake Ontario adjacent to the Finger Lakes region with a metropolitan population of 1+ million. Rochester also boasts a thriving arts and music culture, substantial employment opportunities in various sectors, affordable housing, a rich history of social justice, and easy access to urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods. Candidates should hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in cognitive science, comparative cognition, psychology, neuroscience, or another relevant domain, and should have considerable research experience. Applicants should submit a CV, a statement of research and teaching interests, a statement of commitment to advancing equity and fostering an inclusive and diverse community, including past work and future goals, and contact information of three referees via the following website: https://www.rochester.edu/faculty-recruiting/positions/show/16192 . Questions concerning this position can be addressed to Prof. Dora Biro (dbiro(a)ur.rochester.edu<mailto:dbiro@ur.rochester.edu>), chair of the search committee, or Prof, Duje Tadin (dtadin(a)ur.rochester.edu<mailto:dtadin@ur.rochester.edu>), chair of the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences. Review of applications will begin on November 6, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. The University of Rochester is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, and actively encourages applications from candidates from groups underrepresented in higher education. Salary: $105,000 – $110,000 (9 month salary) The referenced pay range represents the full base range of pay for this job. Individual salaries will be determined within the job’s salary range and established based on market data, experience and expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations. EOE / Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled

Sept. 13, 2023

2 x Postdoctoral research fellowships Horizon Europe project PRIMI

by Di Nuovo, Alessandro

Sheffield Hallam University is advertising two positions to work on the Horizon Europe project PRIMI: Performance in Human Robot Interaction via Mental Imagery<https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101120727>, led by Professor Alessandro Di Nuovo (scientific coordinator). The project aims to create the next-gen humanoid robots with efficient computation, high cognition and autonomy, by synergistically combining interdisciplinary research development in neurophysiology, psychology, machine intelligence, cognitive mechatronics, neuromorphic engineering, and humanoid robotics. The PRIMI project seeks to create more capable interactive robots with advanced abilities, able to provide innovative and personalised services. Prototypes will be used in stroke rehabilitation studies. SHU unit will focus on machine intelligence techniques and neuromorphic computing technologies to create active inference models for interactive learning in robots with human-like performance. You will also join the Smart Interactive Technologies (SIT) research laboratory; a vibrant interdisciplinary group, led by Prof. Alessandro Di Nuovo, that conducts world-leading research on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. The group is currently running several research projects worth over £2.5 million funding from the European Commission and UKRI. As a Senior Research Fellow, https://bit.ly/SnrResFellMachIntell, you are expected to work alongside the scientific coordinator of the PRIMI project, Prof. Di Nuovo, and support him in the high-level management of the project activities. It will also be your responsibility to carry out independent research as required by the project and provide leadership and support to the other staff, along with the supervision of a PhD student's research on the topics of the PRIMI project. It will be your responsibility to guarantee the delivery of research objectives, including the day-to-day management and implementation of the research tasks, e.g. design and carry-out neuro-robotic experiments, assist with data collection and perform both quantitative and qualitative analysis, develop and maintain open-source software, prepare high-quality scientific outputs, and present and organise at international events. As a Research Fellow https://bit.ly/ResFellNeuroRobot, you will carry out independent research as required by the project, provide leadership, and support the supervision of a PhD student researching on the topics of the PRIMI project. Under the mentorship of Prof. Di Nuovo, the research fellow will guarantee the delivery of the research objectives, including the day-to-day management and implementation of the research tasks, e.g. design and carry out neuro-robotic experiments, assist with data collection and perform both quantitative and qualitative analysis, develop and maintain open-source software, prepare high-quality scientific outputs, present and organise at international events. Please read the job information pack in the links above, which includes the full job description and person specification, available on our website for more details: https://www.shu.ac.uk/jobs/apply-for-jobs Alessandro Di Nuovo, PhD Professor of Machine Intelligence Leader of Technological and Digital Innovations, Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre College of Business, Technology and Engineering Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom Email: a.dinuovo(a)shu.ac.uk<mailto:a.dinuovo@shu.ac.uk>

Sept. 13, 2023

2 year Post Doc position @University of Padova - LIPh group - Dr. Michele Allegra

by Samir Suweis

We are looking for a strongly motivated young scholar for a two-year Post-doctoral position at the Physics Department, University of Padova within the LIPh Lab https://www.liphlab.com/. The post-doc will work with Dr. Michele Allegra, but also in close contact with Prof. Dal Maschio’s Lab (Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unipd) and in collaboration with Dr. Pietro Rotondo (Department of Mathematical, Physical and Information Sciences, University of Parma). The post-doc will combine data analysis and modeling to investigate low-dimensional manifolds in neural activity, comparing real data from zebrafish and computational models based on artificial neural networks (a more detailed description of the project is provided below). The position will be fully funded by the National Interest Research Project (PRIN) “Unveiling the role of low dimensional activity manifolds in biological and artificial neural networks”, which also includes funding for traveling. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics, Computational Neuroscience or a related subject. Advanced computational skills (including solid experience with Matlab or Python programming) and data analysis experience are mandatory. Previous experience with neural data is highly welcome. Starting date: as soon as possible. For further info: Michele Allegra <michele.allegra(a)unipd.it> ***************** Samir Suweis www.liphlab.com Tel: +39 049 827 71 74

Sept. 13, 2023

post-doc position offer on computational analysis of neuroimaging data

by GILSON Matthieu

URL REFERENCE: https://matthieugilson.eu/positions/Post-Doc_neuroimaging_biomarkers.html JOB TITLE Post-doctorate position to study diagnosis of multimodal neuroimaging data for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis RESEARCH FIELDS Data Science, Neuroimaging, Neurology, Computational Neuroscience PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project aims to develop and test prediction tools for clinical diagnosis from neuroimaging data, with pipelines covering data preprocessing and machine-learning representational techniques. The focus is on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare neurodegenerative disease for which no efficient treatment exists. A particular goal is to test the possibility of stratifying ALS patients in subtypes with slow versus fast disease progression. It is based on a dataset of 30 ALS patients and matched controls, acquired on 7T and 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, which is currently being extended. Specifically, this dataset involves advanced MRI techniques that are promising for neurodegenerative diseases: quantitative and sodium MRI modalities, in addition to usual structural and functional MRI. We thus plan to build a multimodal prediction pipeline such as to test the combination of distinct types of MRI data (graph/network fusion) for clinical prediction. It also includes an international collaboration and aims to compare ALS datasets acquired in different centers. The position lies at the intersection between clinical research in a hospital and a neuroscience laboratory, aiming to bridge the different research cultures from both sides. We provide an interdisciplinary environment with a team of experts in the following fields: • computational neuroscience with Matthieu Gilson (https://matthieugilson.eu) and Xenia Kobeleva (https://xenia-kobeleva.com/) • MRI techniques with Wafaa Zaaraoui (https://crmbm.univ-amu.fr/contact/zaaraoui-wafaa) • neurology with Aude-Marie Grapperon (https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/593696) and again Xenia Kobeleva. JOB OFFER The position consists of 2 contracts for a total duration of 18 months (full time, 35 hours / week), because of combining two sources of funding. The monthly net salary is between 2000 to 2500 euros depending on previous working experience. The work place is at the Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (INT, https://int.univ-amu.fr) and Center for Magnetic Resonance in Biology and Medicine (CRMBM, https://crmbm.univ-amu.fr) both part of Aix-Marseille University (France). Start date: October 2023 REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL SKILLS We are looking for a candidate that can demonstrate sufficient experience at the PhD level and knowledge in data analysis for neuroscientific data for reaching the project objectives. We seek profiles with solid programming skills in Python (or an equivalent language) combined with a background in the field of neurology. Experience in clinical neuroimaging, markers for neuropathologies and/or computational neuroscience will be favored. Additionally, experience with working in a interdisciplinary team and interest for open science are desired. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. The candidates will also be evaluated on their motivation, with respect to all steps of the process from data acquisition to analysis and scientific communication. CONTACT AND REQUESTED DOCUMENTS Please send a curriculum vitae summarizing your academic and professional trajectory, as well as a motivation letter, to: matthieu.gilson(a)univ-amu.fr -- Matthieu Gilson Chaire de Professeur Junior Aix-Marseille Université Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone https://matthieugilson.eu

Sept. 13, 2023

*** SAVE THE DATES *** From Animals to Animats 17: The 17th International Conference on Simulation of Adaptive Behavior (SAB 2024) at UC Irvine

by Jeffrey L Krichmar

*** SAVE THE DATES *** From Animals to Animats 17: The 17th International Conference on Simulation of Adaptive Behavior (SAB 2024) When: September 9-12, 2024 Where: The University of California, Irvine, Irvine CA, USA Website: https://sites.uci.edu/sab2024/ 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 Computer Science, Springer. Typical, but not exclusive, topics of interest are: - Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Life, and Computational neuroscience o Action selection, behavioral sequencing o Communication and language o Emotion and motivation o Internal models and representations o Reinforcement learning o Sensory-motor coordination, motor control o Software agents and virtual creatures - Philosophical Issues o Consciousness o Ethics o Mind/Body problem - Robotics o Autonomous robotics o Bio-inspired and hybrid robotics o Cognitive robotics o Developmental robotics o Humanoid robotics o Navigation and mapping o Neurorobotics - Self-Organizing Systems o Body and brain co-evolution o Collective and social behavior o Dynamical systems approaches o Evolutionary and co-evolutionary approaches o Self-assembling and self-replication IMPORTANT DATES (tentative): Paper submission deadline: April 1, 2024 Workshop and Tutorial proposals submission deadline: April 15, 2024 Notice of acceptance: June 30, 2024 Camera-ready papers: July 15, 2024 Conference dates: • Workshops and Tutorials: September 9, 2024 • Main Conference: September 10-12, 2024 ABOUT THE SAB CONFERENCE: SAB started in 1990 (Paris, 24-28 September 1990). After years of great success, SAB has given birth to numerous other conferences (on genetics algorithms, reinforcement learning, swarm intelligence, bio-inspired systems, developmental robotics, etc.). In the forthcoming 17th edition, we want to both celebrate this prior success and expand into trending research areas. Since SAB is held every two years, we want to strengthen the conference as a place to discuss the new trends in all relevant areas from the people bringing breakthrough ideas and results. SAB will continue to have a single-track format, to propose self-critical, thought-provoking, and nurturing discussions among specialists in each area as well as with specialists in other areas, so that the conference will both present the state of the art and inspire new ideas at the cutting edge of science. As steps in this direction, this year we will have a broad range of invited speakers to discuss both, longstanding topics in SAB, and the new trends in (and the future of) the Simulation of Adaptive Behavior. The conference will be held at the CalIT2 Auditorium on the UC Irvine Campus (https://www.calit2.uci.edu) We look forward to welcoming you at SAB 2024! SAB Organizing Committee ----------- 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

Sept. 12, 2023

Call for Visiting Scholars at OIST

by Kenji Doya

We are pleased to call for three types of Visiting Scholars at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology: 1) Theoretical Sciences Visiting Program (TSVP): Deadline: Sept. 17, 2023 Visits of 3–12 months, research on theoretical projects. https://groups.oist.jp/tsvp/application-visiting-scholars 2) Experimental Visiting Scholar Program (EVSP): Deadline: Sept. 30, 2023 Visits of 3–12 months by senior faculty, interdisciplinary projects preferred. https://groups.oist.jp/tsvp/application-experimental-visiting-scholars 3) Domestic Visitors Program: Rolling Deadline Visits up to 3 months, possibly as multiple visits, in any scientific field. https://groups.oist.jp/tsvp/application-domestic-visiting-scholars Please refer to each Program page as well as the overview: https://groups.oist.jp/tsvp/application OIST is actively seeking applications from women and underrepresented groups. OIST also has up to 10 open faculty positions: Deadline October 31, 2023 https://groups.oist.jp/facultypositions We look forward to your applications. Best wishes, Kenji ---- Kenji Doya <doya(a)oist.jp> Neural Computation Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan Phone: +81-98-966-8594; Fax: +81-98-966-2891 https://groups.oist.jp/ncu

Sept. 12, 2023

Autumn School in Comp Neuro/Neurotech/NeuroAI

by O'Donnell, Cian

Final notice for online applications for our 3rd annual Autumn School in Computational Neuroscience, Neurotechnology and Neuro-inspired AI (ISRC-CN3), hosted at the Intelligent Systems Research Centre (ISRC) at Ulster University, Northern Ireland (in-person attendance slots are now full). The School runs from 25-31st October 2023. Topics and lecturers: * Introductory neuroscience / Elaine Murray, Ulster University * Mathematics for neuroscience / Rachel Nicks, University of Nottingham * Computational modelling of plasticity and learning in brains / Cian O’Donnell, Ulster University * Computational modelling of neuronal and glial interactions / Liam McDaid, Ulster University * Modelling the dynamics of decision-making / KongFatt Wong-Lin, Ulster University * Investigating time series neural data: Common signal processing practices / Saugat Bhattacharyya, Ulster University * Fundamentals of functional and effective connectivity / Maria Dauvermann, University of Birmingham * Non-invasive brain-computer interfaces: Enhancing applicability using computational intelligence and technological advances / Girijesh Prasad, Ulster University * Decoding mental imagery from electroencephalography (EEG) and applications of AI-enabled wearable neurotechnology for communication and rehabilitation / Damien Coyle, University of Bath & Ulster University * Brain-inspired spiking neural network models for life-long and explainable learning / Nikola Kasabov, Auckland University of Technology & Ulster University * Introduction to Lifelong Learning / Shirin Dora, Loughborough University * Foundations of Large Language Models / Muskaan Singh, Ulster University * Neuromorphic Engineering / Jim Harkin, Ulster University * Ethical and regulatory issues in Neuroscience There will also be daily computer lab sessions and group projects. The school is primarily targeted at PhD student level but we also welcome applications from MSc students, postdoctoral researchers, academic faculty, and industrial researchers. Registration is made highly affordable: £50 for attendees from high-income countries, £20 for attendees from low- and middle-income countries. For more information and application, please visit the website at: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/faculties/computing-engineering-and-the-built-envi… Deadline for online application is 15th September 2023. Sponsored by generous funding from NeuroCONCISE, IEEE Brain, IEEE Computational Intelligence Society, IEEE EMBS, and g.tec. This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

Sept. 11, 2023

General attendance open for Symposium on the Mathematics of Neuroscience (28th Sept - 1st Oct 2023, Old Town, Rhodes, Greece)

by Battleday, Ruairidh

Fourth International Symposium on the Mathematics of Neuroscience. 28th September - 1st October 2023, Old Town, Rhodes, Greece. —---------------- General attendance now open; poster sessions still accepting submissions. —---------------- We have finalized the schedule for this year’s conference on the mathematics of neuroscience, and have opened registration for general attendance: www.neuromonster.org Thank you to everyone that made a submission! We will continue to accept submissions for the poster sessions until the 20th September (and, registration for poster sessions includes general conference admission). In this exploratory symposium, we present and discuss general mathematical models of brain function. We give priority to those models that account for brain or behavioural data, or provide simulations to that effect. Keynote Speakers Professor Aapo Hyvärinen (University of Helsinki) Painful intelligence: What AI can tell us about human suffering Professor Janneke Jehee (Donders Institute) Probabilistic representations in the human visual cortex Professor Peter Latham (UCL) What’s the question and how do we answer it? Session Chairs Probabilistic models: Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday (Harvard / MIT) Neurotheory: Dr James Whittington (Oxford / Stanford) Biocomputation: Professor Dan V. Nicolau (King’s College London / Oxford) Representational alignment: Dr Ilia Sucholutsky (Princeton) Invited Speakers Professor Andrew Adamatzky (UWE) Professor Dan Nicolau Sr (McGill) Professor Bill Thompson (Berkeley) Professor Bradley Love (UCL) Professor Iris Groen (Amsterdam) Dr Thomas Parr (UCL) Dr Ilias Rentzeperis (SNRC) The symposium will be held virtually or in-person on the island of Rhodes, Greece from the 28th September - 1st October 2023 (www.neuromonster.org) Submission for poster sessions is by 250-word abstract before the 20th September 2023, emailed to the session chairs at battleday(a)thinkingaboutthinking.org, indicating the desired session. -- Dr Ruairidh McLennan Battleday BMBCh (Oxon) PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow Center for Brain Science, Harvard University Center for Brains, Minds, and Machines, MIT

Sept. 10, 2023