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Post-Doctoral position in Cognitive and Sensorimotor Neuroscience on human gargalesis | Donders Institute

by Konstantina Kilteni

Dear colleagues, We are excited to announce an opening postdoctoral position at our new lab at Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, to work on a starting ERC project on gargalesis (tickle) perception: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101039152. The main research focus of the project concerns when, where, how and why we interpret a touch applied on our body as ‘ticklish’. To address these questions, we will combine robotic technology, somatosensory psychophysics, neuroimaging (fMRI with focus on MVPA), brain stimulation (TMS), and advanced statistical modelling techniques. Requirements: • You should hold a PhD in the field of Neuroscience, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, or a related field. • You have skills and documented experience in collecting and analysing psychophysical, physiological, and behavioural data, as well as in analysing fMRI data, including the use of MVPA methods. • You have experience with, or are interested in, statistical and computational modelling. • You have a passion for research on the interface between neuroimaging, psychology and cognitive science. • You are curious, ambitious, and are able to work independently. • You are a team player with strong communication and coordination skills. • You have excellent English language skills and academic writing skills. Candidates will contribute to all steps of the research from literature review to implementation of study design, data collection, data analysis and preparation of manuscripts. The position is available for 1 year with the possibility for continuation for 2 more years, starting soon after the application deadline (with some flexibility on the starting date). For further information, please follow the link: https://www.ru.nl/en/working-at/job-opportunities/postdoctoral-researcher-i… Deadline of applications: January 15th, 2023 Interviews: January 25th, 2023 We are very curious and very excited about our research. Join us!! Konstantina Kilteni, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Neuroscience | Karolinska Institutet Solnavägen 9 | 17165 Stockholm | Sweden https://www.kiltenilab.org/ |https://ki.se/en/neuro/kilteni-laboratory När du skickar e-post till Karolinska Institutet (KI) innebär detta att KI kommer att behandla dina personuppgifter. Här finns information om hur KI behandlar personuppgifter<https://ki.se/medarbetare/integritetsskyddspolicy>. Sending email to Karolinska Institutet (KI) will result in KI processing your personal data. You can read more about KI’s processing of personal data here<https://ki.se/en/staff/data-protection-policy>.

Dec. 9, 2022

PhD student position in Machine Learning: Theoretically motivated deep learning

by Tony Lindeberg

PhD student position in Machine Learning: Theoretically motivated deep learning At the Division of Computational Science and Technology at KTH we are seeking a new PhD student in Machine Learning / Computer Vision to handle scale-dependent information in image data. In our research, we develop deep networks for processing image data that handle scaling transformations and other image transformations in a theoretically well-founded manner. Our research in this area comprises both theoretical modelling of the influence of image transformations on different architectures for deep networks as well as experimental evaluations of such networks on benchmark datasets to explore their properties. The work also comprises the creation of new benchmark datasets, to enable characterization of properties of deep networks that are not covered by existing datasets. For examples of our previous work in this area, see https://www.kth.se/profile/tony/page/deep-networks Within the scope of this PhD student position, you will work on and contribute to the research frontier regarding scale-covariant or scale-equivariant deep networks and/or deep networks parameterised in terms of Gaussian derivatives, on specific research topics that we choose together within the scope of the research project ”Covariant and invariant deep networks” that finances this position. The overall goal is to develop new architectures for deep networks that can generalise to scaling variations that are not spanned by the training data, and which can achieve higher robustness to variabilities in test data, as well as enable more efficient training with lower requirements concerning the amount of training data. The candidate should have very good knowledge in mathematics (analysis and linear systems, which we use for modelling convolution transformations and geometric image transformations) as well as in structured programming to write code that is easy to use for making experiments with, maintain and develop and share with colleagues. You must have very good knowledge about programming deep networks in Python, PyTorch is meritorious. Knowledge in computer vision and image analysis is strongly meritorious. For further information and information about how to apply, see https://www.kth.se/en/om/work-at-kth/lediga-jobb/what:job/jobID:567595/wher… [cid:FD2B374F-C472-4895-ADA7-B3CD5419FD22@csc.kth.se] Tony Lindeberg Professor of Computer Science — Computational Vision KTH Royal Institute of Technology Computational Brain Science Lab Division of Computational Science and Technology, CST SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden Phone: +46 8 790 6205 https://www.kth.se/profile/tony/

Dec. 9, 2022

December 15 Deadline; Wu Tsai Postdoctoral Fellowship

by giovanna.guerrero-medina＠yale.edu

The deadline to apply for a Wu Tsai Postdoctoral Fellowship is December 15, 2022. Please share the program details and the attached flyer with soon-to-be or recent PhDs outside of Yale who are enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research focused on cognition. The program provides a generous stipend for up to three years, funding for training and relocation, cohort-based professional development activities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities at Yale dedicated to integrative studies of the mind. International applicants are welcome. The Wu Tsai Postdoctoral Fellowship features opportunities for experimentalists and computationalists. The Computational Track is designed for scientists with expertise in computer science, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, applied math, or related fields who want to pursue independent research projects with Yale labs and use their skills to further our understanding of human cognition. The Experimental Track is for scientists wishing to work on co-mentored long-term projects in defined and compelling interdisciplinary neuroscience areas. Visit the Institute's website for a complete list of research projects. We encourage applications from scientists interested in contributing to diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. Find more information, past awardees, and application instructions here: https://wti.yale.edu/initiatives/postdoctoral. Best, Giovanna Guerrero-Medina, PhD She/Her/Ella Assistant Director for Diversity Equity & Inclusion, Wu Tsai Institute at Yale giovanna.guerrero-medina(a)yale.edu wti.yale.edu

Dec. 9, 2022

Announcing Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2023

by Erik De Schutter

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2023 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 19 to July 6, 2023 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc <https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc> The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 19th through July 6th, 2023 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc <https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc>) only; January 1 - January 31, 2023. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance end of March. Like in preceding years, the 18th OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international and local experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and may provide partial travel support. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Upinder Bhalla (NCBS, India) • Claudia Clopath (Imperial College London, UK) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Tomoki Fukai (OIST) • Yukiko Goda (OIST) • Mike Häusser (University College London, UK) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Jinny Kim (KIST, South Korea) • Sam Reiter (OIST) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Kazumasa Tanaka (OIST) • Marylka Yoe Uusisaari (OIST) • more to be announced

Dec. 8, 2022

6 PhD positions available in biomimetic embodied AI

by Thomas Nowotny

Dear Comp-Neuro community, We are offering 6 PhD studentships in our unique be.AI doctoral training centre in biomimetic embodied AI (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/ccnr/be_ai) at the University of Sussex in Brighton. Deadline: 23 February 2023 Apply online: https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/apply Full details at https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/fees-funding/phd-funding/view/1403-Leverhulm…. Kind regards, Thomas -- Prof. Thomas Nowotny Head of AI Research Group CCNR, Sussex Neuroscience Phone: +44-1273-678593 Engineering and Informatics, Fax: +44-1273-877873 University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny<http://sussex.ac.uk/informatics/tnowotny> <../../owa/redir.aspx?C=9e11bb0e527242938402b42d9b5498ea&URL=http%3a%2f%2fsussex.ac.uk%2finformatics%2ftnowotny> I support the University of Sussex Community Pledge, as I continue to help those around me during the pandemic. Small acts of collaboration, kindness and integrity can make a big difference. www.sussex.ac.uk/community-pledge<http://www.sussex.ac.uk/community-pledge>

Dec. 7, 2022

PhD on neural modelling of conscious perception

by Howard Bowman

PhD position, University of Birmingham: Identifying the Role of Conscious Perception, a Neuroimaging and Computational Investigation Howard Bowman and Damian Cruse, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham are seeking applications for this PhD project, which is competition-funded under the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership (supported by the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council). The deadline for applications is Friday, January 20, 2023; a percentage of the available scholarships can be allocated to non-UK students. Informal enquires can be made to H.Bowman(a)kent.ac.uk<mailto:H.Bowman@kent.ac.uk>. The question of what conscious perception is for remains a key issue for science. In fact, a substantial part of the scientific study of consciousness has focused on showing how sophisticated subconscious processing can be, seemingly leaving little room for a "special" purpose for conscious experience. We have recently presented evidence that the subconscious brain is limited in its capacity to represent episodic information (Avilés, Bowman & Wyble, 2020; Bowman & Avilés, In Press; Bowman et al, 2014). We now have extensive behavioural evidence for this hypothesis. We are thus at a perfect stage to 1) characterise the neural correlates (with fMRI, MEG or EEG) that support this formation of episodic memories, and 2) explain these findings with the Simultaneous Type/ Serial Token (STST) model (Bowman & Wyble, 2007), a neural network model of temporal attention. We are proposing a PhD to work on one or both of these topics. More details can be found at, https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/pgstudy/phd_opportunities/neurosc… https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/cross_fac/mibtp/ -------------------------------------------- Professor Howard Bowman (PhD) Professor of Cognition & Logic in Computing at Uni Kent, and Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience in Psychology at Uni Birmingham (honorary at Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London) Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems and the School of Computing, University of Kent at Canterbury, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NF, UK email: H.Bowman(a)kent.ac.uk<mailto:H.Bowman@kent.ac.uk> WWW: http://www.cs.kent.ac.uk/people/staff/hb5/ School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK

Dec. 7, 2022

Call for community review: The Essential Metadata for 3D BRAIN Microscopy metadata standards (3D-MMS)

by INCF

*INCF seeks community feedback on the 3D Microscopy Metadata Standard (3D-MMS)* Recent advances in fluorescence microscopy techniques and tissue clearing, labeling, and staining provide unprecedented opportunities to investigate brain structure and function, and to catalog brain cell types and define their location, morphology, and connectivity in a native context. It is essential to establish and adopt standards for annotating, reporting, and formatting imaging datasets so that other researchers can understand, reuse, and integrate microscopy data. The Essential Metadata for 3D BRAIN Microscopy metadata standards (3D-MMS) were built on existing efforts and developed with input from the brain microscopy community to promote adoption. The metadata standards include 91 fields organized into seven categories: Contributors, Funders, Publication, Instrument, Dataset, Specimen, and Image. Each metadata field is specified by a name, definition, a list of allowable values, whether it is required, and the number of times it can be repeated for a dataset. These metadata standards were developed by the BRAIN 3D Microscopy Working Group, and are being implemented within the Brain Image Library, the designated repository to accept and make microscopy data publicly available for investigators funded by the US BRAIN Initiative. Comments on this standard are open until February 3, 2023. Add your comments here: bit.ly/ComRevDec22 Why is it important to comment? Community feedback on standards & best practices helps us identify how standards can be improved to be as interoperable as possible with the systems, software, and resources that are currently being used in the field. Find out how to submit your feedback: bit.ly/INCFreview You can comment to express your support, help us identify potential weaknesses, or highlight possibilities for making the standard better or more useful. We value all feedback! Read the INCF criteria for endorsement: bit.ly/INCFreviewcriteria Community review report: bit.ly/ComRevDec22 3D-MMS in the INCF SBP catalog: bit.ly/INCFsbpBRAIN Project page: bit.ly/DORyProject 3D-MMS on Github: bit.ly/3DMMSonGH 3D-MM in Nature: go.nature.com/3VWdcWX Thanks for your help! /The INCF Team

Dec. 7, 2022

Postdoc on Brain network mechanisms underlying spatial cognition

by Peter Dayan

Postdoc position (m/w/d): Brain network mechanisms underlying spatial cognition A postdoc position is available at the Department of Computational Neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics to work with Dr. Oxana Eschenko on brain network mechanisms underlying spatial cognition. This project is a follow up study (Yang; https://www.jneurosci.org/content/jneuro/39/3/434.full.pdf; Mei; http://learnmem.cshlp.org/content/25/3/129) aiming at understanding the role of two thalamic nuclei – the nucleus reuniens and mediodorsal nucleus - within a large-scale brain network underlying spatial cognition. The involvement of both thalamic nuclei in spatial cognition can be inferred from anatomical connectivity and neuropharmacology, while neurophysiological mechanisms of the spatial network dynamics remain poorly understood. We hypothesize that a functional coupling exists between the associative thalamic nuclei, the hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex and that this coupling enables successful spatial navigation and retrieval of spatial memory. To test this hypothesis, we recorded multi-site neural activity while rats learned a complex maze task, and plan to relate model-agnostic and model-dependent behavioral variables reflecting learning and decision-making to aspects of the extracellular neural signals, including spectral decomposition, coherence, cross-frequency and phase-amplitude analysis. Candidates should have strong computational and data science skills and proven experience in the analysis of behavior and neural signals. Proficiency in English is essential. The position is available from March 1, 2023 and will be for one year in the first instance, subject to a probationary period. An extension may be possible depending on performance. Remuneration is based on qualifications and professional experience in accordance with the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD Bund) plus various social benefits and additional pension provision. The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer: Handicapped individuals are strongly encouraged to apply, and so are women in areas in which they are underrepresented. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Please contact Dr. Eschenko (e-mail: oxana.eschenko(a)tue.mpg.de) with any enquiries. Application deadline is January 31, 2023. Please upload your application documents electronically to our job portal by Jan 31, 2023 using the following link: https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/jobs/191

Dec. 7, 2022

Postdoc position in deep learning, closed loop methods, and explainable ML at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

by Benjamin Cowley

A postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience /machine learning is available in Dr. Benjamin Cowley’s research group at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, NY. We are looking for a computational postdoc broadly interested in using machine learning approaches to answer scientific questions about the brain. We focus on designing *closed-loop methods for systems neuroscience* as well as building *explainable computational models of neural responses and behavior*. An important component of our work is to build tight-knit collaborations with experimental neuroscientists—collecting data and building models in tandem. A long-term goal is to identify and understand the step-by-step computations in the brain. For more information, see cowleygroup.cshl.edu Position Requirements Qualifications: PhD in machine learning, computer science, statistics, engineering, neuroscience, or related field; strong programming skills, publications in machine learning conferences or neuroscience journals, and experience or interest in neuroscience and collaborating with experimentalists. Familiarity with deep learning is recommended but not needed. To apply: Interested candidates should Please submit a CV, a short description of how our research interests overlap, and contact information for two references to: cowley(a)cshl.edu. In addition, please apply via the CSHL careers website at: https://cshl.peopleadmin.com/postings/20312 Position ID 03327-R. Candidates from non-traditional and/or underrepresented backgrounds, broadly defined, are strongly encouraged to apply. Environment Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory is a world-renowned biomedical research institution in New York. It has shaped contemporary biomedical research and is the home of eight Nobel Prize laureates. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory provides a highly dynamic and interactive research environment and also a unique opportunity of timely exposure to advances in various biomedical research fields and of interaction with a broad range of researchers from all over the world through its renowned Meetings and Courses program. We believe that science is for everyone. We have had researchers with a variety of backgrounds and believe in the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Compensation and Benefits Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, paid time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our CSHL Benefits & Postdoctoral Landing sites to learn more.

Dec. 6, 2022

Funded PhD position available in Cellular Modelling

by b.flanagan＠ulster.ac.uk

The Intelligent Systems Research Centre at Ulster University is advertising a funded PhD position for a project titled “Computational Biophysical Modelling of Motor Neuron Disease.” Within this PhD, the candidate will explore several different disciplines including neuroscience, physics, and cell biology to develop a computational biophysical model which will help our understanding of the pathway to MN death in ALS. The candidate will consider the environment of the MN neurons, including glutamate pathways, surrounding astrocytes and the movement of ions, integral to proper neuronal function. The candidate will work closely with experimental neuroscientists to validate their model in vitro, to help further our understanding of the disease and offer insights into treatment development. More details about this position are available at https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/1455693. The PhD candidate will be based at the Derry campus of Ulster University, rated in the UK’s Top Ten Research Schools. Derry is located on the banks of the River Foyle in the north-west of Northern Ireland, perfectly positioned between the dramatic scenery of the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast. It is a vibrant city seeped in history and culture, and its multitude of family-friendly activities makes Derry a great place to live. For more information, visit https://www.visitderry.com/ Essential criteria: Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction. In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications. Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain. A comprehensive and articulate personal statement. Desirable Criteria If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview. First Class Honours (1st) Degree Masters at 70% For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75% Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain Work experience relevant to the proposed project Publications - peer-reviewed Experience of presentation of research findings Please contact Bronac (b.flanagan(a)ulster.ac.uk) if you are interested or have questions. --

Dec. 5, 2022

My Seizure Gauge Seizure Forecasting Challenge

by Levin Kuhlmann

The 'My Seizure Gauge Seizure Forecasting Challenge' is now open from Dec 1 2022 until March 1 2023. The contest is hosted on Eval.ai and has a total prize pool of $USD 16,000. The goal is to develop seizure forecasting algorithms using wearables data. More details are available at the following link https://eval.ai/web/challenges/challenge-page/1693/overview The contest is supported by the Epilepsy Foundation of America, Seer Medical, The Mayo Clinic, Kings College London, The University of Freiburg and Monash University. -- Cheers, Levin Kuhlmann, PhD Senior Lecturer of Data Science, AI and Digital Health Director of Master of AI Faculty of Information Technology Monash University Rm 2.73, Woodside Building, Clayton Campus email: levin.kuhlmann(a)monash.edu phone: +61412 552283 web: https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/levin-kuhlmann

Dec. 4, 2022

Postdoc in computational neuroscience at NYU

by Cristina Savin

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral scholar position in the Savin and Angelaki group in the Centre for Neural Science at NYU. The position is funded by a new NIH grant, and focuses on elucidating the mechanisms of spatial navigation using multi-area recordings in freely moving monkeys in the context of foraging tasks. Aspects of this problem include determining the mechanisms representing and updating beliefs about location of self and targets, through the lens of interaction between multiple cortical areas. A significant component of the work focuses on developing new statistical data analysis tools for understanding inter-area communication in the context of naturalistic behavior. This is a joint endeavor across the two lab, with weekly joint meetings and regular group interactions. More broadly, the postdoc will be part of a large and intellectually vibrant community of researchers from the Center for Neuroscience and the Centre for Data Science at NYU. The initial appointment is one year with the expectation of extension contingent on satisfactory progress. The successful applicant will have a degree in computational neuroscience or machine learning, excellent coding skills (python) and a track record of successful research. Prior experience in neural data analysis, probabilistic machine learning, or open software development are particularly appreciated. Prior experience in neuroscience is welcome, but not strictly required. Finally, since this is a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative project, good communication skills are important. Please submit your application to csavin(a)nyu.edu <mailto:csavin@nyu.edu>, including - CV - a statement of research interests - contact details of three people that are familiar with your work We will be evaluating the applications on a rolling basis, starting from Dec 15, 2022, until the position is filled. Cristina Savin Assist.Prof. Neural Science and Data Science New York University

Dec. 2, 2022

Fwd: Postdoctoral position in neural coding, UKE, Hamburg (Germany)

by Stefano Panzeri

I am seeking candidates for a fully funded postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE). The successful candidate will conduct research in my computational laboratory (Department of Excellence for Neural Information Processing) at UKE ( https://www.uke.de/english/departments-institutes/institutes/department-of-…) in collaboration with my lab’s experimental collaborators, including prominently Prof. Christopher Harvey at Harvard Medical School, Prof. Tommaso Fellin at IIT Italy, and Prof. Mriganka Sur at MIT. We will investigate, by developing and using advanced data analysis methods and biophysically plausible neural network models, how populations of neurons (and of glia) in the brain encode information and use it to produce appropriate behaviors. We are particularly interested in discovering how correlations between neurons shape the encoding and transmission of information across areas of the cerebral cortex, and in understanding the theoretical principles of how to combine measures and perturbations of neural activity to probe causally the contributions of interactions between neurons to brain function. Our laboratory offers a wide range of interdisciplinary expertise in computational neuroscience, including both advanced neural analysis techniques and neural network modeling. The laboratory also offers a thriving, ambitious and well-funded research environment (including receiving funding from the NIH Brain Initiative, Simons Foundation, the European Union). This gives successful candidates ample opportunities for advanced training and personal scientific growth. We seek candidates holding a PhD in a numerate or neuroscientific discipline, with a solid computational background and a keen interest in neuroscience. They must be highly motivated and creative individuals who want to work in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research environment and be willing to interact with both experimental and theoretical neuroscientists. The job is available starting immediately and applications will be considered as soon as they are received and until the position is filled. Funding is available for several years and a minimum commitment of two years is expected by interested candidates. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to email me (s.panzeri(a)uke.de or stefano.panzeri(a)gmail.com) as soon as possible, to inform me of the interest for the position and initiate a discussion about research projects. I suggest interested candidates to attach a CV when inquiring by email. For recent publications from my lab relevant to this project, see: Panzeri S, et al (2022) The structures and functions of correlations in neural population codes. *Nature Reviews Neuroscience* 23: 551-567 Koren V., Panzeri S (2022) Biologically plausible solutions for spiking networks with efficient coding. *NeurIPS 2022,* in press, arXiv:2210.07069 Curreli S, et al (2022) Complementary encoding of spatial information in hippocampal astrocites. *PLoS Biology* 20(3): e3001530. Valente, M. et al (2021), Correlations enhance the behavioral readout of neural population activity in association cortex. *Nature Neuroscience*, 24, 975–986 Chong, E. et al (2020) Manipulating synthetic optogenetic odors reveals the coding logic of olfactory perception. *Science* 368, 1329. Runyan C. A., et al (2017) Distinct timescales of population coding across cortex, *Nature*: 548: 92-96. Panzeri S., et al (2017) Cracking the neural code for sensory perception by combining statistics, intervention and behaviour. *Neuron* 93: 491-507 Pica, G. et al (2017) Quantifying how much sensory information in a neural code is relevant for behavior, *Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2017)* Thanks Stefano Panzeri

Dec. 2, 2022

Post-doc and graduate positions in DeAngelis lab, with Moreno-Bote and Drugowitsch Labs

by Ruben Moreno Bote

Postdoctoral and PhD positions in systems neuroscience, DeAngelis Lab, University of Rochester, in collaboration with Moreno-Bote and Drugowitsch Labs. A postdoctoral position and a graduate student assistantship in Systems Neuroscience are available at the University of Rochester, in the laboratory of Dr. Greg DeAngelis. The positions are part of a recently funded NIH project on the neural mechanisms of visually-guided navigation in virtual reality. The project is a collaboration with the laboratories of Dr. Ruben Moreno-Bote (UPF, Barcelona) and Dr. Jan Drugowitsch (Harvard Medical School, Boston). A 1-month visit to Barcelona every year is expected to foster the collaborative aspects of the project. The project involves psychophysics and large-scale electrophysiology in non-human primates, combined with computational approaches. The goal is to elucidate neural mechanisms for the visual-motor control of steering. Successful candidates will join a highly dynamic and collaborative group at the Center for Visual Science (https://www.cvs.rochester.edu) with strong theoretical/computational collaborations with the laboratories of Moreno-Bote and Drugowitsch, and expected extended visits to their labs. Previous work from our group has made fundamental contributions to our understanding of the neural basis of motion perception, depth perception, multisensory integration, self-motion perception, and perceptual decision-making ( https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=deangelis_gc&sort=date&size=100) Candidates are expected to have a background in neuroscience, experimental psychology, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Previous research experience in systems neuroscience is desirable, although it is not necessary. Candidates should submit their CV, a brief statement of research interests, and the names and contact information for three references to gdeangelis(a)ur.rochester.edu. -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter Professor 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>

Dec. 2, 2022

PhD modelling brain learning

by O'Donnell, Cian

Our group at Ulster University are looking for a computational neuroscience PhD student for a project on “Discovering the rules of neural learning by computer simulations of brain biophysics and deep neural networks.” You will use multiscale computer simulations of electro-chemical signalling in neurons, synapses, and astrocytes to understand how the physical arrangement of different cell types affects brain learning. You can then use more abstract deep neural network models to study the circuit functions of these mechanisms for learning and memory. More details including reading material here: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/1455716. The project will involve collaboration with Tom Bartol at the Salk Institute, La Jolla, California. You will join our research group which uses computational tools to do research on synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, autism, and neural data analysis methods: https://odonnellgroup.github.io. You will also be a member of the CNET team in the Intelligent Systems Research Centre (http://isrc.ulster.ac.uk) a community of researchers working across computational and cognitive neuroscience, neurotechnology, neuromorphic engineering, machine learning, robotics and related fields. We are based in the Derry campus of Ulster University. Derry a lively city of ~100K people on the River Foyle in Northern Ireland, UK. It has a highly affordable cost of living, thriving cultural scene, and access to spectacular coastal scenery and the great outdoors in Donegal and the north coast of Northern Ireland. To be eligible for funding, UK-based applicants should have or expect to obtain an upper second or first-class undergraduate or masters degree. International applicants should have a masters degree. Application deadline is 27th February 2023, for a Sept 2023 start. Application info here: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/1455716. Please contact Cian (c.odonnell2(a)ulster.ac.uk<mailto:c.odonnell2@ulster.ac.uk>) if you are interested or have questions. -- Cian O’Donnell Lecturer in Data Analytics School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems Ulster University https://odonnellgroup.github.io 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

Dec. 2, 2022

Kempner Institute Fellowships at Harvard University

by Cengiz Pehlevan

The Kempner Institute at Harvard University is soliciting applications for the Kempner Institute Fellowships. We seek candidates with demonstrated ability and creativity who study one or more of the following areas: Foundations of intelligence, including mathematical and computational models of intelligence, cognitive theories of intelligence, computational neurobiology, and the neurobiological basis of intelligence. Applications of artificial intelligence, including natural language processing, visual scene processing and analysis, and to the mechanistic analysis of high dimensional neural and behavioral data. The study of these applications can either be from an engineering standpoint (e.g. development of new methodologies or advancing the state of the art) as well as from a scientific one (e.g. achieving a better understanding of deep learning). The Fellowship is intended for early stage scientists and will provide them with opportunities for intellectual growth in a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment. The fellows will independently set their research agenda but are strongly encouraged to work between fields and collaborate with preeminent experts at the Kempner Institute and at Harvard, more generally. Fellows will be appointed for a term of up to 3 years, with an annual salary of $100,000 and up to $10,000 per year of research support. Fellows will have access to shared office space, world-class computational resources and engineering support. They will benefit from a wide and deeply-engaged community of scientists, as well as access to the breadth of resources and facilities available to members of Harvard University. See https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/11860 <https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/11860> for more information. For other postdoctoral opportunities at Harvard for researchers in ML/AI, please see this webpage https://mlfoundations.org/#opportunities <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__mlfoundations.org_-23o…>

Dec. 1, 2022

CFP: FLAIRS-36, Neural Networks and Data Mining Special Track, Clearwater Beach, Fl, May 14-17, 2023

by David B

FLAIRS-36 Clearwater Beach, Florida, USA, May 14-17, 2023 Neural Networks and Data Mining Special Track Abstract submission deadline: February 6, 2023 Paper submission deadline: February 13, 2023 Notifications: March 13, 2023 Camera ready version due: April 10, 2023 The Florida Artificial Intelligence Research Symposium (FLAIRS) is a medium-sized interdisciplinary AI conference which is noted for its double-blind reviewing, free tutorials, and beautiful venues. This special track will be devoted to neural networks and data mining with the aim of presenting new and important contributions in these areas. Papers and contributions are encouraged for any work related to neural networks, data mining, or the intersection thereof. Topics of interest may include (but are in no way limited to): 1. Applications such as Pattern Recognition, Control and Process Monitoring, Biomedical Applications, Robotics, Text Mining, Diagnostic Problems, Telecommunications, Power Systems, Signal Processing; Intelligence analysis, medical and health applications, text, video, and multi-media mining, E-commerce and web data, financial data analysis, cyber security, remote sensing, earth sciences, bioinformatics, and astronomy. 2. Algorithms such as new developments in Back Propagation, SVM, Deep Learning, Ensemble Methods, Kernel Approaches; hybrid approaches such as Neural Networks/Genetic Algorithms, Neural Network/Expert Systems, Causal Nets trained with Backpropagation, and Neural Network/Fuzzy Logic. 3. Modeling algorithms such as hidden Markov models, decision trees, neural networks, statistical methods, or probabilistic methods; case studies in areas of application, or over different algorithms and approaches. 4. Graph modeling, pattern discovery, and anomaly detection. 5. Feature extraction and selection. 6. Post-processing techniques such as visualization, summarization, or trending. 7. Preprocessing and data reduction. 8. Knowledge engineering or warehousing. Papers dealing with Cloud-based unstructured data or tool suites, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Mahout, or Apache Spark, are also encouraged. Submission Guidelines Submitted papers must be original, and not submitted concurrently to a journal or another conference. Double-blind reviewing will be provided, so submitted papers must use fake author names and affiliations. Papers must follow the FLAIRS template guidelines ( https://www.flairs-36.info/call-for-papers) and be submitted as a PDF through the EasyChair conference system. (Do NOT use a fake name for your EasyChair login; your EasyChair account information is hidden from reviewers.) FLAIRS will not accept any paper which, at the time of submission, is under review for or has already been published or accepted for publication in a journal or another conference. Authors are also required not to submit their papers elsewhere during FLAIRS's review period. These restrictions apply only to journals and conferences, not to workshops and similar specialized presentations with a limited audience and without archival proceedings. Authors will be required to confirm that their submissions conform to these requirements at the time of submission. Conference Proceedings Papers will be refereed and all accepted papers will appear in the conference proceedings. Program committee: Track Co-Chairs: David Bisant, Central Security Svcs, bisant(a)umbc.edu Steven Gutstein, Army Research Laboratory, s.m.gutstein(a)gmail.com William Eberle, Tennessee Tech University, weberle(a)tntech.edu Program Committee Members: Martin Atzmueller (University of Kassel, Germany) Juan Banda (Montana State University, USA) Lori Bogren (Verizon Business Solutions, USA) Sergei Dolenko (D.V.Skobeltsyn Inst of Nuc Phys, M.V.Lomonosov Moscow St Univ) Yoni Fridman (Verizon Business Solutions, USA) Olac Fuentes (University of Texas at El Paso, USA) Hyoil Han (Marshall University, USA) Sheikh Rabiul Islam (University of Hartford, USA) Mike James (iProgrammer, United Kingdom) Jacek Kukluk (Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, USA) Katrina Kutchko (Verizon Business Solutions, USA) Prabin Lamichhane (Mastercard, USA) Lenin Mookiah (eBay, USA) Ramesh Paudel (George Washington University, USA) Roberto Santana (University of Basque Country, Spain) Hujun Yin (University of Manchester, UK) Further Information Questions regarding the Data Mining Special Track should be addressed to the track co-chairs: David Bisant, Central Security Svcs, bisant(a)umbc.edu Steven Gutstein, Army Research Laboratory, s.m.gutstein(a)gmail.com William Eberle, Tennessee Tech University, weberle(a)tntech.edu Invited Speakers To be announced Conference Web Sites Paper submission site: https://www.flairs-36.info/submissions FLAIRS-36 conference web page: https://www.flairs-36.info/ Florida AI Research Society (FLAIRS): https://www.flairs.com

Nov. 30, 2022

New book on Neurorobotics

by Jeffrey L Krichmar

Dear Colleagues, Our book on Neurorobotics is now published. Please pick up a copy :) Happy reading! Jeff ----------- Neurorobotics: Connecting the Brain, Body, And Environment, The MIT Press. Authors: Tiffany J. Hwu and Jeffrey L. Krichmar Neurorobotics is an interdisciplinary field that draws on artificial intelligence, cognitive sciences, computer science, engineering, psychology, neuroscience, and robotics. Because the brain is closely coupled to the body and situated in the environment, neurorobots—autonomous systems modeled after some aspect of the brain—offer a powerful tool for studying neural function and may also be a means for developing autonomous systems with intelligence that rivals that of biological organisms. This textbook introduces approaches and design principles for developing intelligent autonomous systems grounded in biology and neuroscience. It is written for anyone interested in learning about this topic and can be used in cognitive robotics courses for students in psychology, cognitive science, and computer science. Neurorobotics covers the background and foundations of the field, with information on early neurorobots, relevant principles of neuroscience, learning rules and mechanisms, and reinforcement learning and prediction; neurorobot design principles grounded in neuroscience and principles of neuroscience research; and examples of neurorobots for navigation, developmental robotics, and social robots, presented with the cognitive science and neuroscience background that inspired them. A supplementary website offers videos, robot simulations, and links to software repositories with neurorobot examples. Tiffany J. Hwu is a research scientist working on projects in autonomous agents and human-machine communication. Jeffrey L. Krichmar is a Professor in the Department of Cognitive Sciences and the Department of Computer Science at the University of California, Irvine, where he teaches courses in artificial intelligence, cognitive robotics, and computational neuroscience. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/716394/neurorobotics-by-tiffany-j-… --------- 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

Nov. 29, 2022

PhD positions in the area of intracortical visual prostheses

by David Rotermund

The Computational Neurophysics lab at the University of Bremen headed by Dr. Udo Ernst offers - under the condition of job release - at the earliest possible date a position until 30.09.2024: *Research Assistant in Computational Neuroscience (f/m/d)* German federal pay scale E13 TV-L (65 %) for the research project *I-See2 - Improving Intracortical Visual Prostheses Using Complex Coding and Spontaneous Activation States* The lives of many individuals are strongly impaired by missing the sense of vision. One putative option to help them are cortical prostheses. Such devices record images from our environment, encode this information into the 'language' of the brain, and stimulate neuron populations in the visual system for creating a corresponding percept. I-See2 (www.isee.uni-bremen.de) investigates new principles for building cortical prostheses in an international group with researchers from Canada, Switzerland and Germany. Your position will be at the heart of the project in Bremen, where computational methods are developed and data from our partner labs comes together. You will perform modelling of visual information processing, analysis of data from electrophysiological multielectrode recordings and optical voltage imaging, and be involved in model-driven visual stimulus generation for animal and human experiments. The position comes with direct supervision by the principal investigators and project coordinators Dr. David Rotermund and Dr. Udo Ernst. *Requirements:* Ideal candidates have a master's degree in Computational Neurosciences, Physics, Computer Sciences or in related fields. They must have a strong background in neural networks, dynamical systems, mathematics and/or data analysis, and be experienced in programming (preferably in Python/Matlab). Above all, they must have a strong motivation, a sense for responsibility, a distinct desire to learn, and the ability to proactively collaborate in an international research environment. Fluency in English is required (both written and spoken). The Computational Neurophysics Lab offers a good working atmosphere, direct involvement in international research and attractive facilities. The university is family-friendly, diverse and sees itself as an international university. We therefore welcome all applicants regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity. As the University of Bremen intends to increase the proportion of female employees in science, women are particularly encouraged to apply. In case of equal personal aptitudes and qualification priority will be given to disabled persons. Please explicitly address each of the specified requirements in the application. Detailed instructions are described below. Please send your application documents (motivation letter, CV, copy of your degree certificates including high school, list of skills, awards, publications, contact details of two academic reference) until December 9th, 2022 by indicating the job id A325/22 to: University of Bremen FB1 Computational Neurophysics lab Secretary of Dr. Udo Ernst Mrs Agnes Janßen Hochschulring 18, Cognium D-28359 Bremen Tel.: +49 421 218 62000 or in electronic form in a summarized PDF file via e-mail: ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de. For questions of the research project please contact: Dr. Udo Ernst, E-Mail: udo(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de See also for general information on this topic: http://www.isee.uni-bremen.de _Detailed instructions for applicants_ Your application must comprise: *Motivation letter* Your 1-2 page essay should reply the following questions: • What is your background? In which fields have you worked before and how do you think this can be useful for the present job? • What attracts you to the field of computational neuroscience? • Which problem(s) in computational neuroscience are you most interested in? • What is your motivation to join our project? • What are your plans for your future career? *Curriculum Vitae* Send a classical tabular CV with your contact details, and all stages of education and employment. *List of skills, awards, publications* List your skills, especially proficiency in languages (including the level of proficiency), that you think might be useful for the job. Also list awards you might have got and peer-reviewed papers, in case there are some. *Contact details of two academic references* One of the references should be your MSc advisor. Please contact the references prior to listing their names so that they are not surprised if they get contacted. Your application can be in English or German, whatever language you are more familiar with. -- *Dr. David Rotermund* *University of Bremen* Institute for Theoretical Physics Faculty 01 Physics/Electrical Engineering Hochschulring 18, D-28359 Bremen Cognium, room 2450 Tel. +49 421 218-62003 Fax +49 421 218-62014 davrot(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de www.neuro.uni-bremen.de <https://www.neuro.uni-bremen.de> www.isee.uni-bremen.de <https://www.isee.uni-bremen.de>

Nov. 29, 2022

Fwd: INCF in Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2023: call for mentors and project ideas

by Malin Sandström

Dear all, ---- please forward this call to potentially interested mentors in your network! --- INCF will apply to be a mentor organization in Google Summer of Code <https://summerofcode.withgoogle.com/> for the 13th time running. Important: Interested mentors need to contact us on gsoc(a)incf.org as early as possible with a declaration of interest and a short summary of the intended project. The deadline for expressions of interest is January 10. Full project descriptions need to be submitted by January 17. We are calling for open source software development project ideas with some sort of neuro connection - fixes or extensions to big/broadly applicable or small/niche tools used by neuroscience researchers, efforts and initiatives in the broad field of computational neuroscience. If your project supports or implements INCF endorsed standards or best practices <https://www.incf.org/resources/sbps>, we especially encourage you to apply. NB: There have been some changes to the program in recent years. These are the conditions for the 2023 program: - Flexibility in project lengths: a project can run for a duration of 10-22 weeks. The standard length is 12 weeks, but projects can be planned for a longer duration at the start, and they can be extended (by the org admin) on request during the program. - Choice of project time commitment: a project can be one of two sizes, either large (350 h) or medium (175 h). Google will want to us to apply with a good mix of large and medium project sizes. To give us a good chance of achieving a good mix, everyone submitting at least two project ideas will be asked to include both half-time and full-time projects (or at least one flexible project where the duration can be either large or medium, to be decided by mentor and contributor). - Contributions are *open to students* AND to *beginners in open source* software development. Also, the usual reminder: there is no guarantee that INCF will be accepted as a mentoring organization this year; Google announces the accepted organizations in February. Please be clear with this in your communication with potential contributors. The timeline will be a bit earlier than last year. Org applications will open January 23 and close February 7, with accepted organizations announced February 22. We aim to have a live Project Ideas list latest mid January. Reminder: Interested mentors need to contact us on gsoc(a)incf.org as early as possible with a declaration of interest and a short summary of the intended project. The deadline for expressions of interest is January 10. Full project descriptions need to be submitted by January 17. ________________________________ *Submission instructions* Each project idea submission should come by email to gsoc(a)incf.org and contain: 1) An informative title with relevant keywords (good-to-have: name of tool/project, name of programming language(s) or tools used) 2) A project description including a brief general intro, motivation, aims, scope and skills/skill level needed. Please make sure to clearly state - the planned effort (175 h, 350h or flexible) - the intended skill level (beginner, novice, intermediate, advanced) - the list of prerequisite skills the contributor will need to have - 2-5 tech keywords (Python, C++, Java, SQL, REST, CUDA, ...) For submissions with two or more project ideas, please include at least one project of each size (175 or 350 hours) or at least *one *project idea with flexible duration. 3) Name and email address of at least one lead mentor + one named co-mentor/backup mentor (a person who would be able and willing to back the main mentor up in mentoring in case something unforeseen happens). There can be more than one lead mentor, as long as you are internally clear on who does what. 4) Any planned longer absences during the lead up/student interaction period (February - April) or the project period (May - August), and your plan for covering them. 5) Format: your choice - txt, doc, docx, pdf or a link to a webpage with the full description(s). Anything that can be copied and pasted! Best regards, Malin Sandström -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org ORCID: 0000-0002-8464-2494 International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org ORCID: 0000-0002-8464-2494 International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org -- Malin Sandström, PhD Community Engagement Officer malin.sandstrom(a)incf.org ORCID: 0000-0002-8464-2494 International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Karolinska Institutet Nobels väg 15 A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden http://www.incf.org

Nov. 29, 2022

Two open postdoctoral positions at Temple University

by Gillian Queisser

Position 1: Computational Neuroscience (https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/21518<https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mathj…>) The Department of Mathematics, Temple University, is inviting applications for a non-tenure-track Research Assistant Professor position. The appointment is for four years, to start on July 1st, 2023. This position is part of a US-German Collaboration toward a biophysically principled network model of transcranial magnetic stimulation. The ideal candidate will have profound knowledge of numerical and computational methods for solving partial differential equations, excellent C++ programing skills and an interest in neuroscience/life science applications. The position also carries a teaching load of one class per semester. Applications should be be submitted via mathjobs.org, and include: the standard AMS Cover Sheet for Academic Employment, a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a statement about current and future research, and a teaching statement. A complete application will also include at least four letters of recommendation, one of which addressing the candidate’s teaching qualifications. Review of applications will begin on January 1, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. Temple University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty. We especially encourage applications from women, minorities, and other under-represented groups in the mathematical sciences. The Department of Mathematics at Temple University abides by the AMS postdoctoral offer response date guidelines. Position 2: Computational Mathematics (https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/21570<https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mathj…>) The Department of Mathematics, Temple University, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position. This is a non-tenure-track appointment. The appointment is for four years, to start on July 1st, 2023. This research position is part of a US-German Collaboration toward a biophysically principled network model of transcranial magnetic stimulation. The ideal candidate will have profound knowledge of numerical and computational methods for solving partial differential equations (PDEs), and an interest in developing mathematical theory and numerical methods for solving nonlinear PDEs on complex domains with nonlinear interface conditions. The position also carries a teaching load of one course per semester. Applications should be submitted via mathjobs.org, and include: the standard AMS Cover Sheet for Academic Employment, a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a statement about current and future research, and a teaching statement. A complete application will also include at least four letters of recommendation, one of which addressing the candidate’s teaching qualifications. Review of applications will begin January 1, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. Temple University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty. We especially encourage applications from women, minorities, and other under-represented groups in the mathematical sciences. The Department of Mathematics at Temple University abides by the AMS postdoctoral offer response date guidelines. ————————————————— Gillian Queisser Department of Mathematics Temple University 1805 N Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19122-6094, USA

Nov. 28, 2022

PhD / PostDoc positions in the area of machine learning with spiking neurons

by David Rotermund

The Computational Neuroscience group at the University of Bremen headed by Prof. Dr. Klaus Pawelzik offers - under the condition of job release - at the earliest possible date a position until February 28, 2025 *Research Assistant /Postdoc in Computational Neuroscience (f/m/d)* German federal pay scale E13 TV-L (100 %) for the research project *Efficient Implementation of Spike-by-Spike Neural Networks using Stochastic and ApproximativeTechniques* The overarching goal of our project is to improve the efficiency of spiking artificial neural networks using hardware and algorithmic approximation techniques. Specifically, the project focuses on Spike-by-Spike networks since they offer a balance between computational requirements and biological realism which keeps the advantages of the biological networks while enabling a compact technical realization. To fully take advantage of the unique features of SbS in terms of robustness and sparseness, dedicated hardware architectures are required. You would join in with numerical simulations, theoretical analyses, as well as through the development of new ideas and approaches for boosting the performance and capabilities of the Spike-By-Spike model. Furthermore, you would also work on combining Spike-By-Spike networks with non spiking deep neuronal networks into hybrid models. Details can be found at https://www.neuro.uni-bremen.de/drupal/open-position-sbs *Requirements:* Ideal candidates have a master's or doctorate degree in Computational Neurosciences, Physics, Computer Sciences or in related fields. They must have a strong background in mathematics, programming (preferably in Python/Matlab), and machine learning as well as an intense interest in neuroscience. An optimal candidate should not be afraid of cooperating with engineers, since this is a joint project with a focus on hardware development. Above all, he/she must have a strong motivation, a sense for responsibility, a distinct desire to learn, and the ability to proactively collaborate in an international research environment. Fluency in English is required (both written and spoken). The Theoretical Neurophysics Lab offers a good working atmosphere, direct involvement in international research and attractive facilities. The university is family-friendly, diverse and sees itself as an international university. We therefore welcome all applicants regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity. As the University of Bremen intends to increase the proportion of female employees in science, women are particularly encouraged to apply. In case of equal personal aptitudes and qualification priority will be given to disabled persons. Please explicitly address each of the specified requirements in the application. Detailed instructions are described below. Please send your application documents (motivation letter, CV, copy of your degree certificates including high school, list of skills, awards, publications, contact details of two academic reference) until December 9th, 2022 by indicating the job id A326/22 to: University of Bremen FB1 Theoretical Neurophysics lab Secretary of Prof. Dr. Klaus Pawelzik Mrs Agnes Janßen Hochschulring 18, Cognium D-28359 Bremen Tel.: +49 421 218 62000 in electronic form in a summarized PDF file via e-mail: ajanssen(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de. For questions of the research project please contact: Prof. Dr. Klaus Pawelzik, E-Mail: pawelzik(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de See also for general information on this topic: http://www.neuro.uni-bremen.de/content/open-position-sbs _Detailed instructions for applicants_ Your application must comprise: *Motivation letter* Your 1-2 page essay should reply the following questions: • What is your background? In which fields have you worked before and how do you think this can be useful for the present job? • What attracts you to the field of computational neuroscience? • Which problem(s) in computational neuroscience are you most interested in? • What is your motivation to join our project? • What are your plans for your future career? * * ** *Curriculum Vitae* Send a classical tabular CV with your contact details, and all stages of education and employment. *List of skills, awards, publications* List your skills, especially proficiency in languages (including the level of proficiency), that you think might be useful for the job. Also list awards you might have got and peer-reviewed papers, in case there are some. *Contact details of two academic references* One of the references should be your MSc advisor. Please contact the references prior to listing their names so that they are not surprised if they get contacted. Your application can be in English or German, whatever language you are more familiar with. -- *Dr. David Rotermund* *University of Bremen* Institute for Theoretical Physics Faculty 01 Physics/Electrical Engineering Hochschulring 18, D-28359 Bremen Cognium, room 2450 Tel. +49 421 218-62003 Fax +49 421 218-62014 davrot(a)neuro.uni-bremen.de www.neuro.uni-bremen.de <https://www.neuro.uni-bremen.de> www.isee.uni-bremen.de <https://www.isee.uni-bremen.de>

Nov. 28, 2022

Postdoc position - Computational neuroscience - Cheng Lab

by Vinita Samarasinghe

*Postdoctoral Position in Computational Neuroscience at the Institute for Neural Computation, Faculty of Computer Science* Prof. Sen Cheng, Institute for Neural Computation, Faculty of Computer Science at the Ruhr University Bochum, invites applications for a full time (currently 39.83 hours/week) *Postdoctoral position (TV-L E13) in Computational Neuroscience. * The position starts as soon as possibleand is funded until 30.06.2025. *Job description* The position is part of the Collaborative Research Center “Extinction Learning” (SFB 1280) and studies the principles underlying spatial learning and its extinction with reinforcement learning models. A particular focus is the role of episodic-like memory in learning and extinction processes. The research group is highly dynamic and uses diverse computationalmodeling approachesincludingbiological neural networks, cognitive modeling, and machine learning to investigatelearning and memory in humans and animals. For further information see www.rub.de/cns <http://www.rub.de/cns>. *Your Profile: * Candidates must have * a doctorate degreein neuroscience, physics, mathematics, electrical/biomedical engineering or a closely related field, * relevant experience in mathematical modeling, * excellent programming skills (e.g., Python, C/C++, Matlab), * excellent communication skills in English * the ability to work well in a team. Research experience in neuroscience would be a further asset. The Ruhr University Bochum is home to a vibrant research community in neuroscienceand cognitive science. The Institute for Neural Computation combines different areas of expertise ranging from experimental and theoretical neuroscienceto machine learning androbotics. Please send your application, including CV, transcripts and research statement electronically, as a *single PDF file*, to samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de <mailto:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de>. In addition, at least two academic references mustbe sent independently to the above email address. The deadline for applications is December 31^st , 2022. Travel costs for interviews will not be reimbursed. The Ruhr University Bochum is committed to equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. We are committed to providing a supportive work environment for female researchers, in particular those with young children. Our university provides mentoring and coaching opportunities specifically aimed at women in research. We have a strong research network with female role models and will provide opportunities to networkwith them. Wherever possible, events will be scheduled during regular childcare hours. Special childcare will be arranged if events have to be scheduled outside of regular hours, in case of sickness and during school or daycare closures. Where childcare is not an option parents will be offered a home office solution. Contact person: Vinita Samarasinghe, samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de <mailto:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de> -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/73 Postfachnummer 110 Universitätstr. 150 44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0) 234 32 27996 Email:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de

Nov. 25, 2022

Postdoc and PhD positions in the area of predictive coding

by Christopher Laurie Buckley

Hi all, We are looking to recruit PhDs and a postdoc in the area of predictive coding. We are recruiting for the specific project below but there are various other sources of funding too. A postdoc and a PhD position are available at the University of Sussex between my own group and the group of Prof. Anil K Seth (Department of Informatics and Centre for Consciousness Science) on the EU-funded project entitled “A metapredictive model of synthetic awareness for enabling tool invention”. The project is a ground-breaking international and multidisciplinary project that aims at developing a novel computational model of cognition based on the predictive processing of metacognition and validating its utility in real robots in the context of conditional sequential tasks, operationalised by tool use, as well as by the novel challenge of tool creation. This will suit those interested in predictive processing and generally work at the intersection of cognitive science and ML. To apply for the postdoc please see, https://www.sussex.ac.uk/about/jobs/research-fel-in-computational-cognitiv-… The closing date is 9th December 2022. For the PhD positions, and all informal inquiries. please contact c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk <mailto:c.l.buckley@sussex.ac.uk>.

Nov. 25, 2022

2 year Post-Doc in Brain Criticality at the University of Padova

by Samir Suweis

2 year Post-Doc in Brain Criticality at the University of Padova The groups of Judit Gervain <https://sites.google.com/site/juditgervain/?pli=1> and Samir Suweis <http://www.liphlab.com/> are recruiting a talented young postdoctoral researcher to participate in a project that is at the intersection of mathematics, physics, and neuroscience in the general area of brain criticality. In particular, the project will investigate how efficient learning during critical or sensitive periods early in life may be modelled. It will combine the theory of criticality in statistical physics with developmental cognitive neuroscience to offer a new model of perceptual attunement to the native language during the first year of life. The ideal candidate will have a quantitative background (e.g. PhD in mathematics, physics, computer science) along with (preferable but not mandatory) experience in applying this background to neuroscience. The post doc will join the Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, The Department of Physics and the Padova Neuroscience Center and live in highly active, stimulating interdisciplinary environment at the University of Padova, one of the most prestigious universities in Italy. The position is open immediately with primary location in Padova, a nice small university town near Venice. Ideally, the starting date is between January-April 2023, unless otherwise agreed. The position is funded for two years. Interested candidates should contact Prof. Samir Suweis (samir.suweis(a)unipd.it <mailto:samir.suweis@unipd.it>) and Prof Judit Gervain (judit.gervain(a)unipd.it <mailto:judit.gervain@unipd.it>).We strive for a diverse and inclusive environment, and encourage applications from members of any identity. Sorry for cross posting, please forward to who may be interested. Best Samir - - - - - - - - Associate Professor, LIPh Lab - www.liphlab.com <http://www.liphlab.com/>, Physics & Astronomy Dept. Padova Neuroscience Center University of Padova Tel: +39 049 827 71 74 @SamirSuweis https://suweis.github.io/ <https://suweis.github.io/> Why don't you join the next generation publishing experiment with "Peer Community In" - publish and read at no cost and inject more money into research! Check us out @ https://peercommunityin.org <https://peercommunityin.org/> https://youtu.be/4PZhpnc8wwo <https://youtu.be/4PZhpnc8wwo> @PeerCommunityIn

Nov. 25, 2022