- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

4-year Ph.D. Position in Neuroscience at the Donders Institute

by Bernhard Englitz

Dear List, we are pleased to announce a 4-year Ph.D. position in the field of neuroscience, with a focus on acquisition and computational analysis of multilevel neural data. The position will be jointly supervised by Dr. Englitz and Dr. Cohen. Please find the details of the call below. Best wishes, Bernhard & Mike Bernhard Englitz, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Department of Neurophysiology Donders Centre for Neuroscience Faculty of Science, Radboud Universiteit Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Project: This project will involve a combination of EEG and lowlevel neural recordings from multiple areas of the brain in rodents. Our focus will be on the rapid patterns of electrical activity that are observed during rest, sleep, and cognition. We will compare neural activity in multiple brain regions to simultaneously recorded EEG activity, in order to determine how these multiscale microstates are related to sensory processing. Results from this project will help us understand how the EEG signal is related to the complex spatiotemporal dynamics of the brain, its neural computations, and their relation to sensory perception. In turn, these findings will help lay groundwork for individualized diagnosis of brain dysfunctions. Scientific Environment: The Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour consists of three research centres, the Centre for Cognition, the Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging and the Centre for Neuroscience. The Donders Institute focuses on state-of-the-art cognitive neuroscience, in a multidisciplinary approach, and offers excellent lab and neuroimaging facilities. The position will be jointly hosted at the Neuroinformatics and the Neurophysiology departments, which together provide a high quality neuroscience environment with facilities for chronic and non-chronic many-channel recordings, imaging and computational modeling. The research questions of the departments range from fundamental to applied, and enable the interaction of theory and experimental work in a single location. The Donders Institute is an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community, and as such encourages applications from women and minorities. Radboud University offers a parental leave scheme and day care on campus. Qualifications: - MSc degree in computational neuroscience, mathematics, physics, engineering or a related area. - Experience with programming and data analysis in Matlab/Python. - Experience with quantitative analysis (e.g. linear algebra, time-frequency analysis) - Experience with electrophysiology is considered a plus. - The applicant should have a pro-active attitude, good communication skills, and be able to effectively work in a multi-disciplinary team. Application Link: http://www.ru.nl/werken/details/details_vacature_0/?recid=579059 <http://www.ru.nl/werken/details/details_vacature_0/?recid=579059> Closing Date of Call : 30.5.2016 Planned Starting Date : 1.9.2016

May 5, 2016

Ph.D. and Master positions in theoretical neuroscience at the MPI for Brain Research

by Tatjana Tchumatchenko

Ph.D. and Master positions in theoretical neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research We are seeking undergraduate students interested in writing a Master thesis and also have open positions for Ph.D. Students to join our group "Theory of neural dynamics" at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research lead by Dr. Tatjana Tchumatchenko. Our group studies how networks of neurons encode and decode sensory stimuli and how these functions are related to computations that underlie cognitive functions and behavior. We develop models to address linear and non-linear properties of neuronal networks and have ongoing collaborations with experimental labs where we analyze in vitro as well as in vivo data and develop appropriate models to explain the observed phenomena. Successful applicants should have a strong background in a quantitative field such as physics, mathematics or computer science and should be interested in an interdisciplinary exchange with other disciplines such as biology or medicine. Life science majors interested in quantitative modeling work are also encouraged to apply, particularly if they would like to combine experiments and theory in their Master or Ph.D. thesis work. We are looking for candidates with strong English skills and prior programming experience. In order to make teamwork in our group enjoyable and fun, the ideal candidate should have a strong work ethic and have demonstrated consistent self-motivation skills. Female students are particularly encouraged to apply. Prospective students should apply by sending an email to theoryneuraldynamics(a)gmail.com which includes * a letter of motivation, * CV, * and a copy of the current academic transcripts To make your motivation letter easier to write for you and more informative for us, please check the list of questions to be answered in your motivation letter at http://www.tchumatchenko.de/Opportunities.html Looking forward to your applications! Tatjana Tchumatchenko -- Dr. Tatjana Tchumatchenko Research group leader Theory of Neural Dynamics Max Planck Institute for Brain Research Max-von-Laue-Str 4 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany www.tchumatchenko.de

May 4, 2016

Collaborative Development of Data-Driven Models of Neural Systems: Janelia Farm Sept 18-12

by Padraig Gleeson

[Apology for cross-postings] Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce a conference on: Collaborative Development of Data-Driven Models of Neural Systems September 18-21, 2016 Janelia Farm Research Campus, Virginia, USA Deadline for registration: 18th May Detailed computational models are critical for elucidating neuronal and network function. They enable different levels of description to be linked, a wide range of neurophysiological experiments to be interpreted and quantitative predictions to be made. These factors are important for understanding large-scale complex systems, like neural circuits; however, more extensive use and scaling up of these data driven models pose challenges in ensuring that models are scientifically rigorous, as well as accessible and usable by both theoretical and experimental researchers alike. This conference will bring together a range of experimentalists, theoreticians and neuroinformatics developers with the aim of facilitating a global, open infrastructure for collaborative model development in neuroscience. *Organizers* Padraig Gleeson, University College London Angus Silver, University College London *Invited Participants* Anton Arkipov, Allen Institute for Brain Science Giorgio Ascoli, George Mason University Upinder Bhalla, National Centre for Biological Sciences Avrama Blackwell, George Mason University Kevin Briggman, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/NIH Dean Buonomano, University of California, Los Angeles Nicholas Cain, Allen Institute for Brain Science Claudia Clopath, Imperial College London Rosa Cossart, Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée Sharon Crook, Arizona State University Andrew Davison, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Erik De Schutter, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Shaul Druckmann, Janelia Research Campus/HHMI Chris Eliasmith, University of Waterloo Jeremy Freeman, Janelia Research Campus/HHMI Michael Hausser, University College London Jeanette Hellgren Kotaleski, Karolinska Institutet Fritjof Helmchen, University of Zurich David Kleinfeld, University of California, San Diego Jeff Magee, Janelia Research Campus/HHMI Robert McDougal, Yale School of Medicine Eilif Muller, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne Hanchuan Peng, Allen Institute for Brain Science Ruben Portugues, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology Mark Schnitzer, HHMI/Stanford University Ivan Soltesz, Stanford School of Medicine Nelson Spruston, Janelia Research Campus/HHMI Misha Tsodyks, Weizmann Institute of Science Registration is free, but places are limited.*Registration closes 18th May 2016*. For more details and to apply for participation go to https://www.janelia.org/you-janelia/conferences/collaborative-development-d…. ----------------------------------------------------- Padraig Gleeson Room 321, Anatomy Building Department of Neuroscience, Physiology& Pharmacology University College London Gower Street London WC1E 6BT United Kingdom +44 207 679 3214 p.gleeson(a)ucl.ac.uk -----------------------------------------------------

May 4, 2016

MICCAI Challenge on Neural Circuit Reconstruction

by Jan Funke

Dear colleagues, We would like to draw your attention to the MICCAI challenge "CREMI: Circuit Reconstruction from Electron Microscopy Images" (http://cremi.org/) As of May 1st, the training phase of the challenge has opened. We provide three volumes with dense neuron and synapse segmentation, along with annotations for pre- and post-synaptic partners (http://cremi.org/data.html) The goal of this challenge is to evaluate algorithms for automatic reconstruction of neurons and neuronal connectivity from serial section electron microscopy data. The comparison is performed not only by evaluating the quality of neuron segmentations, but also by assessing the accuracy of detecting synapses and identifying synaptic partners. The challenge is carried out on three large and diverse datasets from adult Drosophila melanogaster brain tissue, comprising neuron segmentation ground truth and annotations for synaptic connections. A successful solution would demonstrate its efficiency and generalizability, and carry great potential to reduce the time spent on manual reconstruction of neural circuits in electron microscopy volumes. Follow us on Twitter for updates (https://twitter.com/cremi_challenge) and feel free to contact us at challenge(a)cremi.org. Regards, The CREMI organizers (Jan Funke, Stephan Saalfeld, Davi Bock, Srini Turaga, and Eric Perlman)

May 3, 2016

BMVA Workshop on "Vision for interaction: From humans to robots"

by Alessandra Sciutti

=============================================== VISION FOR INTERACTION: From humans to robots One Day BMVA symposium - London, UK on October 19, 2016 Website: www.bmva.org/meetings ================================================ **************** Keynote Speakers: **************** + Prof. Antonia Hamilton (UCL) and + Prof. Yiannis Aloimonos (Univ. of Maryland). **************** Abstract: **************** Since early infancy, the ability of humans at interacting with each other is substantially strengthened by vision, with several visual processes tuned to support prosocial behaviour. For instance, a natural predisposition to look at human faces or to detect biological motion is present at birth. More refined abilities as the understanding and anticipation of others' actions progressively develop with age, leading, in a few years, to a full capability of interaction based on mutual understanding, joint coordination and collaboration. A key challenge of robotics research nowadays is to provide artificial agents with similar advanced visual perception skills, with the ultimate goal of designing humanoid robots able to recognize and interpret both explicit and implicit communication cues embedded in human movements. These achievements pave the way for the large-scale use of Human-Robot Interaction based applications on a variety of contexts, ranging from the design of personal robots, to physical, social and cognitive rehabilitation. ******************* Call for contributions: ******************* In this highly interdisciplinary one-day workshop we aim at bringing together contributions from the fields of cognitive science, robotics, machine vision and artificial intelligence, to corroborate the discussion on the potential guidelines to design and develop biologically-inspired computational vision models that may favour a natural interaction between artificial systems and humans. Please submit a short abstract summarizing your contribution, you may include links or pointers to web-based illustrations, demonstration material or papers giving more details. The work can be in progress or recently published, in addition to novel research. If you would like to give a talk, please contact Noceti (nicoletta.noceti(a)unige.it ) and Sciutti (alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it ) by email by July 6, 2016. Areas of interest include but are not limited to: Vision neuroscience for interaction Computational vision models Vision for Robotics and Artificial intelligence Human robot interaction Vision in Social sciences This workshop is supported by the European Project CODEFROR (FP7-PIRSES-2013-612555) ************** Important dates: ************** + July 6, 2016 Deadline for abstract submission October 19, 2016 + BMVA symposium at BCS (British Computer Society) in London, UK. *********** Chairs: *********** + Nicoletta Noceti (Università degli Studi di Genova) - + nicoletta.noceti(a)unige.it Alessandra Sciutti (Istituto Italiano di + Tecnologia) - alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it

May 3, 2016

Postdoc position: Neural engineering and BMI in NYU

by Chen, Zhe

Dear colleagues Applications are now being accepted for a postdoctoral fellow position to combine experimental, computational and engineering techniques to study neural mechanisms of central pain circuits using rodent models. The applicant will work closely with Dr. Zhe (Sage) Chen and Dr. Jing Wang at the New York University School of Medicine, with cross-disciplinary training in computational neuroscience, rodent behavior and electrophysiology, optogenetics, and neural engineering (brain-machine interface). The applicant will have great opportunities to interact with a large and growing neuroscience community at the NYU campus, including the Neuroscience Institute (http://neuroscience.med.nyu.edu) Center for Neural Science (http://www.cns.nyu.edu) Department of Neuroscience & Physiology (http://neuro-physio.med.nyu.edu) Department of Psychiatry (http://psych.med.nyu.edu) and Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine (http://www.med.nyu.edu/anes/home ). NYU Neuroscience community is also surrounded by other institutions in the greater New York metropolitan area (such as Columbia, Cornell, Rockefeller and Mount Sinai). The postdoc position is available immediately, and will be renewable up to 4 years depending on performance. Applications must have a PhD degree in Engineering (Biomedical or Electrical), Statistics, Physics or a related discipline. The desired applicant is expected to be highly motivated and work independently as well as cooperatively with other colleagues in all research projects. Ability to learn new techniques and resolve new research challenges is essential. Strong experiences in developing rodent or primate brain-machine interface (BMI) systems are desired. Previous training in animal behavior and optogenetics, in vivo neurophysiological recordings, are preferred but not required. Strong programming skills in C/C++ or hardware implementation experiences are a plus. To apply, please send an email along with (i) CV (with a complete list of publications); (ii) a cover letter describing research accomplishments and interests; (iii) the names and contact information of two to three references to: Dr. Zhe (Sage) Chen (zhe.chen3(a)nyumc.org<mailto:zhe.chen3@nyumc.org>) with a subject line “Postdoc application”. Best Zhe (Sage) Chen ------------------------------------------------------------ This email message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender by return email and delete the original message. Please note, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The organization accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. =================================

May 2, 2016

PhD position: population coding in the retina

by Olivier Marre

A funded PhD position is available at the Vision Institute, Paris, to work with Olivier Marre on population coding in the retina. We have developed methods to record the activity of a large number (100-200) of ganglion cells, the output of the retina. The student will perform experiments and analyze data to understand how information can be coded in this activity. A particular emphasis will be put on the coding of trajectories of moving objects in different visual contexts. The research project is highly interdisciplinary. Applicants should have a quantitative background or some programming experience. A background in biology is welcomed but not required. The student will be trained to perform in vitro retina experiments. The Vision Institute ( http://www.institut-vision.org ) is a research center located in the center of Paris and dedicated to research on vision and vision diseases, with the aim of bridging the gap between academic, clinical, and industrial research. It is affiliated to Pierre and Marie Curie University. This PhD is funded as part of a project involving Drs Frédéric Chavane and Ivo Vanzetta (INT Timone, Marseille, France) and Dr Bruno Cessac (INRIA, Sophia-Antipolis). Collaborations with these labs will therefore be encouraged. The position should ideally start in October 2016. For more information, please contact Olivier Marre: olivier.marre(a)inserm.fr

May 2, 2016

2nd Call for Papers: IEEE RO-MAN 2016 Workshop on Neuroscience Methods in Human-Robot Interaction

by Burcu Ayşen Ürgen

IEEE RO-MAN 2016 Workshop on Neuroscience Methods in Human-Robot Interaction (New York City, 26-31st August, 2016) Neuroscience methods such as brain imaging are increasingly used to address research questions in robotics, robot-human communication and interaction. This workshop will provide an overview of state-of-the-art work at the intersection of human-robot interaction and human neuroscience, to show how cross-disciplinary collaboration can be a win-win, and to help increase communication between researchers from different yet complementary disciplines, with the hope of catalysing new ideas and collaborations. Neuroscientists with expertise in several topics of interest for RO-MAN 2016 <http://www.ro-man2016.org/> (e.g., embodiment, empathy, social cognition, body movements, gestures, facial expressions, anthropomorphism, learning and imitation, social presence, inference of human states, machine learning and brain-machine interfaces) will introduce the methods used, and present empirical work exemplifying their application to robotics, highlighting not only how such studies have led to insights on neural mechanisms of interaction, communication, and collaboration, but also how the findings inform the design and development of new robots, robot-human collaborative systems, interaction modalities and interfaces. We will solicit papers from the broader community that address these themes. Robotics and neuroscience both being active, rapidly developing, and high priority research areas, and the combination of expertise across disciplines holding great promise for advances in both theory and applications, the workshop will serve an important role by bringing together researchers coming from different backgrounds. Panel sessions will address challenges for interdisciplinary and novel research and discuss ideas for increasing synergy and impact future work. *SPEAKERS* Ayse P. Saygin, PhD (UC San Diego, USA) Emily S. Cross, PhD (Bangor University, UK) Thierry Chaminade, PhD (Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone, FRANCE) Susanne Quadflieg, PhD (University of Bristol, UK) James Thompson, PhD (George Mason University, USA) *WORKSHOP ORGANIZERS* Burcu A. Urgen, PhD (University of Parma, ITALY) Ayse P. Saygin, PhD (UC San Diego, USA) Emily S. Cross, PhD (Bangor University, UK) Workshop website: http://neurorobotics.ucsd.edu/ *CALL FOR PAPERS* We solicit full paper submissions from cognitive and social neuroscientists and human-robot interaction researchers with expertise in several topics of interest for RO-MAN 2016 including but not limited to embodiment, empathy, social cognition, nonverbal communication via body movements, gestures, facial expressions, anthropomorphism, learning and imitation, social presence, social knowledge, inference of human states, machine learning and brain-machine interfaces. The submitted papers are intended to include applications of various neuroimaging methods such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to topics of relevance to RO-MAN 2016. Observational and behavioural studies may be suitable as long as they are highly cross-disciplinary. Theoretical papers that address the theme of the workshop and RO-MAN 2016 may also be included. The expectation from submissions is to highlight not only how neuroscience studies involving robotics have led to insights on the human cognitive and neural mechanisms of interaction, communication, and collaboration, but also how the findings inform the design and development of new robots, robot-human collaborative systems, interaction modalities and interfaces. *EVALUATION* All submissions will be evaluated by a minimum of two reviewers. The reviewers will evaluate each submission based on how informative the study has been both to human neuroscience AND human-robot interaction as well as the quality of the research methodology. All accepted papers will be published in workshop proceedings. Each paper accepted for an oral or poster presentation has to be presented by one of the authors. *IMPORTANT DEADLINES* Full paper submissions due 05/15/2016. Notifications will be sent by 05/18/2016. Final versions will be submitted by 05/20/2016. *PAPER GUIDELINES* All full paper submissions should follow the guidelines specified in the main conference website, check here <http://www.tc.columbia.edu/conferences/roman2016/submissions/papers/>. *HOW TO SUBMIT* The papers should be emailed to neuroscience.robotics.workshop(a)gmail.com by the deadline: 05/15/2016. -- Burcu Aysen Urgen, PhD Email: burcu.urgen(a)gmail.com Website: http://www.burcuaysenurgen.com

May 2, 2016

Book: Bayes' Rule With Python

by James Stone

I'd like to announce the publication of this book: Bayes' Rule With Python A Tutorial Introduction to Bayesian Analysis by JV Stone Reviews, synopsis, and table of contents can be found here: http://jim-stone.staff.shef.ac.uk/BookBayes2012/books_by_jv_stone/index.html regards, Dr James V Stone, Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK.

April 30, 2016

SSBSS 2016: Call for Oral Presentations/Posters: 9-13 July 2016, Volterra (Pisa) Tuscany, Italy - 3rd Int. Synthetic & Systems Biology Summer School - Early Application: May 26, 2016

by Giuseppe Nicosia

_________________________________________________________________________ Call for Participation (apologies for multiple copies) Please help forward it to other potentially interested attendees, thanks! _________________________________________________________________________ 3rd International Synthetic and Systems Biology Summer School - SSBSS 2016, 9-13 July 2016, Volterra (Pisa) - Tuscany, Italy ssbss.school(a)gmail.com <mailto:ssbss.school@gmail.com> http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ https://www.facebook.com/ssbss.school/ https://twitter.com/SchoolSsbss EARLY APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 26, 2016 http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/#application-form The Synthetic and Systems Biology Summer School (SSBSS) is a full-immersion five-day residential summer school at the Volterra Learning Center (Pisa - Tuscany, Italy) on cutting-edge advances in systems and synthetic biology with lectures delivered by world-renowned experts. The school provides a stimulating environment for students (from Master students to PhD students), Post-Docs, early career researches, academics and industry leaders. Participants will also have the chance to present their results (with Oral Talks and Posters), and to interact with their peers, in a friendly and constructive environment. SSBSS 2016 DEADLINES: Early Application: May 26, 2016 Notification Acceptance: from April 2 to 28 May 2016 Late Application: from May 27, to July 4th 2016 Notification Acceptance: from May 28th 2016 according to registration time Early Short Talk/Poster Submission: May 26, 2016 Notification Acceptance: from 2 April to 28 May 2016 Late Short Talk/Poster Submission: from May 27, to July 4th 2016 Notification of Decision for Oral/Poster Presentation: from May 28, 2016 according to submission time http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/#application-form FINAL LIST OF SPEAKERS * Yaakov (Kobi) Benenson, Synthetic Biology Group@Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland Lecture 1: The practice of mammalian synthetic biology Lecture 2: Mammalian cell classifiers * Leonidas Bleris, Bioengineering Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, USA Lecture 1: Genome Editing Technologies and Therapeutic Modalities Lecture 2: Benchmark Circuits and Topological Properties * Edoardo Boncinelli, Universita’ Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy Lecture: TBA * John Cumbers, Founder SynBioBeta, Mountain View, CA, USA Lecture: Synthetic Biology: new tools for an industry at an inflection point. * Domitilla Del Vecchio, Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT, USA Lecture 1: Modularity in genetic circuits: Dream versus Reality Lecture 2: Engineering Modularity in Genetic Circuits * Diego Di Bernardo, Dept of Chemical Materials and Industrial Production Engineering University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy Lecture 1: "Engineering and Control of Biological Circuits in Yeast" Lecture 2: "Engineering and Control of Biological Circuits in Mammalian Cells * Barbara Di Ventura, Synthetic Biology Group, BioQuant/DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany Lecture 1: Using blue light to control protein localization in living mammalian cells Lecture 2: Using split inteins for protein engineering in living cells * Jonathan S. Gootenberg, Feng Zhang and Aviv Regev Groups, Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, USA Lecture 1: "Discovering and Characterizing CRISPR effectors" Lecture 2: "Probing Biology with CRISPR Screening" * Markus Herrgard, Technical University of Denmark - Biosustain, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Denmark Lecture 1: "Developing an Integrated Cell Factory Design Tool" Lecture 2: "Using Automated Laboratory Evolution to Optimize Cell Factories” * Shalev Itzkovitz, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel Lecture 1: "Single Molecule Approaches for Studying Gene Expression in Intact Mammalian Tissues" Lecture 2: "Systems Biology of Stem Cell-Maintained Tissues” * Francesco Ricci, Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy Lecture 1: "DNA Nanotechnology Tools and Reactions for Synthetic Biology" Lecture 2: "Nature-inspired DNA-based Nanodevices Next Generation Sequencing Workshop – Afternoon July 12th, 2016 * “How fast can we align sequences?” Mario Guarracino, CNR, Italy * “Advanced Bioinformatics tools for NGS” – TBC Luca Zammataro, Yale University, USA Tutorials: * “Detection and analysis of contaminating sequences in NGS sequencing data” Ilaria Granata, CNR, Italy * “Detection and interpretation of circular RNAs in RNA-seq experiments” Parijat Tripathi, CNR, Italy SSBSS 2016 DIRECTORS Diego Di Bernardo, TeleThon Institute of Genetics & Medicine - TIGEM and University of Napoli "Federico II", Italy Giuseppe Nicosia, University of Catania, Italy Luca Zammataro, Yale University, USA MORE INFORMATION ssbss.school(a)gmail.com <mailto:ssbss.school@gmail.com> http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ https://www.facebook.com/ssbss.school/ https://twitter.com/SchoolSsbss Social event(s): social tour and dinner in Florence. Please help us distributing in your circles (emails, blogs, and social networks) the call for participation and call for oral talks/posters for SSBSS 2016. Together we will make SSBSS a great event! See you in Tuscany in July! More Info: ssbss.school(a)gmail.com <mailto:ssbss.school@gmail.com> http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ -- Giuseppe Nicosia, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Computer Engineering Dept of Mathematics & Computer Science University of Catania Viale A. Doria, 6 - 95125 Catania, Italy P +39 095 7383048 nicosia(a)dmi.unict.it http://www.dmi.unict.it/nicosia ================================================================== 3rd International Synthetic & Systems Biology Summer School - SSBSS 2016 * Biology meets Computer Science & Engineering * July 8-14, 2016 - Volterra (Pisa), Tuscany, Italy http://www.taosciences.it/ssbss/ ================================================================== 2nd International Workshop on Machine learning, Optimization & big Data - MOD 2016 August 26-29, 2016 - Volterra (Pisa), Tuscany, Italy http://www.taosciences.it/mod/ ==================================================================

April 29, 2016

Call for proposals to host the annual Computational Neuroscience (CNS) Meeting in 2018

by Tam, Nicoladie

Call for proposals to host the annual Computational Neuroscience (CNS) Meeting in 2018 The Organization for Computational Neurosciences (OCNS, http://www.cnsorg.org ) requests proposals from candidate local organizers to organize the CNS meeting in 2018 in a location outside of Europe, preferably in North or South America. Groups or individuals interested in organizing the CNS*2018 meeting should submit a proposal with consideration of the extensive on-line information ( http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-local-organizer ) and using the on-line templates provided as a guide. The OCNS board members will select/discuss the different proposals, contact the potential local organizers for more information if necessary and come to a timely agreement between OCNS and potential local organizers. Proposals should be emailed to the OCNS president at president(a)cnsorg.org<mailto:president@cnsorg.org> no later than June 15th, 2016. Decisions are expected to be conveyed to potential organizers in July 2016. Astrid Prinz (OCNS President)

April 29, 2016

Parallel Simulation with NEURON

by Ted Carnevale

A few seats remain available in the course Parallel Simulation with NEURON that we will be presenting at HHMI|Janelia Saturday, June 25 - Monday, June 27. This course is designed for users who already know how to write hoc or Python code for NEURON and now want to adapt existing models, or create new ones, that can be simulated on parallel hardware. Special attention will be paid to strategies for debugging, and measuring and improving performance. Registration is subject to approval by the course's faculty. The registration deadline is Friday, May 20, 2016. For more information and the online application form, see http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/summer2016/summer2016.html --Ted

April 28, 2016

Fully funded PhD position, University of Genoa, Italy - "Visuo-haptic sensorimotor models"

by Silvio P. Sabatini

===================================================================== Applications are invited for one full-time PhD studentship (with scholarship) for a period of 3 years, at the Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Italy. ===================================================================== The position will start on Nov 1st, 2016 on the following research project: ACTION-PERCEPTION TRANSFER IN VISUAL AND VISUO-HAPTIC BEHAVIOR _Deadline for Applications: June 10th, 2016_ Experiencing the sensory feedback gained from movements allows us to learn the contingencies and correlations between actions and sensory events. Accordingly, sensing "educates" motor action, but, conversely, and more elusively, motor practice can "educate" sensing. The proposed research aims at investigating the interplay between action and perception at different levels: (1) modelling early action-perception transfer in visual feature extraction (cf. neural coding of visual properties) and perceptual judgement processes (decoding stages); (2) experiments on bidirectional perceptual-action influence - including the development of systems and devices that integrate vision and haptics; (3) applications in neuromotor and cognitive rehabilitation, in which action is used to educate perception and perception is used to educate action. The project will provide the opportunity to work on neural modeling, visual and visuo-haptic psychophysics, and robotics. Experimental, modeling, and theoretical approaches might be pursued with a different accent according to personal attitude. * HOW TO APPLY Candidates must have: - University degree at M.Sc. level (or expect to obtain it by October 31st, 2016) in Bioengineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related disciplines; - attitude for problem solving and interest in experimental work; - essential skills comprise Matlab and/or C/C++/C# or Python programming. Online application is possible till June 10th, 2016 (at noon) Italian time Full details on the call and the application procedure are available at: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXII/ENG/ http://phd.dibris.unige.it/biorob/index.php/how-to-apply Prospective students, please contact: Silvio P. Sabatini (silvio.sabatini(a)unige.it) or Vittorio Sanguineti (vittorio.sanguineti(a)unige.it) providing your CV and qualifications, the name and contact details of two references, and a description of your research interests. * WHERE The research will be conducted jointly at "The Physical Structure of Perception and Computation (PSPC) Lab", and the "Neuro-engineering and Neuro-robotics lab (NEUROLAB)", led by Silvio P. Sabatini and Vittorio Sanguineti, respectively. PSPC-Lab has a long-standing expertise in visual coding and multidimensional signal representation, robot perception and computer vision. In the last years, the lab's research activity focused on the analysis of the structural mechanisms of visuo-spatial cognition, responsible for orienting and interacting in the 3D space. NEUROLAB (http://www.neurolab.dibris.unige.it/) focuses on experimental studies on neural control of movement, in normal and pathologic conditions. Recent activity aimed at investigating the computational basis of motor skill learning, and how this process can be facilitated by robots and other interactive technologies. Our labs are located in Genoa, a small beautiful town in northernItaly, both from historical (its historical center is the largest of Europe) and naturalistic point of view (sea and mountains coexist creating a unique landscape). Genoa is only 1.30h away from Milan by train and connected by plane to Rome (1.00h), London (2h) and Paris (1.30h). Regards, -- --------------------------------------------------------------------- Silvio P. SABATINI, PhD [PSPC Research Group] Professor of Bioengineering DIBRIS - University of Genova | e_mail:silvio.sabatini@unige.it Via Opera Pia, 11A | phone: +39 010 3532092/3532794 I-16145 Genova (ITALY) | fax: +39 010 3532289/3536533 URL:http://pspc.unige.it --------------------------------------------------------------------- "Imagination is more important than knowledge..." [Albert Einstein]

April 28, 2016

PhD Studentships in Computational Neuroscience at the University of Hertfordshire

by Torben-Nielsen, Benjamin

We welcome applications for a funded PhD position in the Biocomputation Research Group at the University of Hertfordshire. The successful applicant will work on a project related to the detailed modelling of neuronal dynamics arising through dendritic processing and/or the analysis of morphological and circuit data. Potential projects in the fields of neuroinformatics and computational neuroscience include (but are not limited to): - Analysis of neuronal morphology and micro-circuitry. - Simulation of development of neuronal morphologies and tissues. - Simulation of dendritic processing on hardware. - Sensory processing and behaviour generation in individual invertebrate neurons. - Development of experimental robot controllers based on dendritic computation. - Structural plasticity at the single neuron and micro-circuitry level. More project ideas can be found here: http://www.dendrites.club/Positions.html The successful candidate will have extensive programming experience, preferably in Python (and/or other programming languages depending on the precise project). Depending on the project, experience with parallel programming (MPI, ZMQ), meshing software (VTK, CGAL, ITK, ...), or statistical analysis in R or Python are an advantage. In addition, we greatly value curiosity and a personal motivation to find out how things work. We collaborate closely with leading experimentalists and theoreticians all over the world, such as Prof. Adrian Moore (RIKEN, Japan), Prof. Erik De Schutter (OIST, Japan) and Dr. Marylka Uusisaari (Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands). The student will be based in the Biocomputation Group (biocomputation.herts.ac.uk) at the University of Hertfordshire and will be supervised by Drs. Ben Torben-Nielsen and Volker Steuber to whom informal enquiries can be sent. Successful candidates are eligible for a research studentship award from the University (approximately GBP 14,250 per annum bursary plus the payment of the student fees). Application forms can be obtained from Mrs Lorraine Nicholls, Research Student Administrator, STRI, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, Tel: 01707 286083, l.nicholls @ herts.ac.uk. The short-listing process will begin on 30 May 2016. Dr. Ben Torben-Nielsen Senior Lecturer (Assistant professor) Biocomputation Group University of Hertfordshire, UK

April 28, 2016

PhD Position: NEUROPHYSIOLOGY and BEHAVIOUR

by Andrea Burgalossi

PhD Position: NEUROPHYSIOLOGY and BEHAVIOUR The lab of Andrea Burgalossi at the Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN) in Tübingen is looking for PhD candidates in the field of Neurophysiology and Behaviour Research in our lab focuses on the cellular basis of behavior. We employ a combination of anatomical and electrophysiological techiques for studying how defined neural circuits contribute to sensory and high-level representations of the external world. Possible PhD projects will involve the use of state-of-the-art in vivo electrophysiology techiques, in combination with anatomical methods for neural circuit mapping (please see www.burgalossilab.com or contact Andrea Burgalossi for more details). Previous experience with electrophysiological methods is desirable, but not essential. Analytical and programming skills are a plus. Applications should contain a CV and names of at least two referees. Please send your application electronically to andrea.burgalossi(a)cin.uni-tuebingen.de. More info at http://burgalossilab.com/ http://www.cin.uni-tuebingen.de/ SELECTED PUBLICATIONS Burgalossi et al., Neuron (2011) 70:773-86 Tang et al, Nature Protocols (2014) 9:2369-81 Tang et al., Neuron (2014) 84:1191-7 Ray et al., Science (2014) 343:891-6 Diamantaki et al., Current Biology (2016) 26:536-41 -- Andrea Burgalossi, PhD Cellular and Synaptic Basis of Behaviour Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN) Otfried-Müller-Straße 25 72076 Tübingen Tel: 0049-(0)7071 / 29 - 88797 Fax: +49-(0)7071 / 29-25006 Lab web: burgalossilab.com CIN web: http://www.cin.uni-tuebingen.de

April 28, 2016

Fully funded PhD position, University of Birmingham, UK - Human movement

by Chris Miall

Please bring this fully-funded 3-year PhD studentship to the attention of your students: Title: Quantification of motor performance in patients with impaired upper limb movements Supervisors: Chris Miall and Joe Galea,  Place: School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, UK There is growing need for accurate quantification of performance in patients with impaired upper limb movements. This arises from the need to assess recovery of movement following neurosurgery and stroke and to underpin a stratified approach to rehabilitation. We have recently developed methods to assess upper limb movements in a 2D workspace, using the resulting “performance map” to guide stroke rehabilitation. We have also developed methods to link the patients’ performance to muscle activation patterns. We now want to extend this work into 3D, to allow assessment of a broader range of movements, closer to normal activities, and in a shorter period of assessment. In addition, we wish to extend from stroke to assessment of functional recovery after neurosurgery, as a prelude to testing enhancement of recovery with brain stimulation: this would include patients with surgical repair of traumatic injury (road traffic accidents). Finally, we aim to extend our methods to link performance to muscle activation patterns in these continuous movements, in order to better understand the underlying deficits in motor control. The project will make use of a state-of-the-art 3D robotic arm, and assess performance by developing a 3D tracking task, in which a subject’s motor ability is progressively expanded from an initial slow and central focus to regions needing more extended limb postures and faster movement. An assistive algorithm in which the force-controlled robot guides movement towards the target will be used to help patients overcome weak and unstable movement, while still allowing assessment of performance speed, direction and stability. Actions in the robot-assisted task will be compared with free movement tracking in a virtual reality environment, with limb movements captured by existing motion tracking systems, but this motion tracking will ultimately be possible with a device such as the Microsoft Wii or smartphone. The comparisons will inform the potential to translate the assessment from the lab based robotic systems to the bedside. The outcome will be a set of diagnostic tests that deliver accurate quantification of upper limb movement control, suitable for triage of rehabilitation and for assessment of progressive recovery. The project is suited for students with an excellent first degree in neuroscience, engineering, robotics, or computer science. Masters training would also be advantageous. Experience in programming (Matlab or C) would be very valuable, and an interest in working with patients is important. There is studentship funding available for three years from the EPSRC, for UK or EU students only. Please contact Chris Miall (r.c.miall(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:r.c.miall@bham.ac.uk>) or Joe Galea (j.galea(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:j.galea@bham.ac.uk>) for further information or use FindaPhD: https://www.findaphd.com/search/ProjectDetails.aspx?PJID=74850 Deadline for application is 20-MAY-2016. ---------------------------------------------------------- Professor R.C. Miall Tel +44 (0)121 414 2867 School of Psychology, Fax +44 (0)121 414 4897 University of Birmingham, Mobile: +44 (0)7709 586997 Edgbaston, Email: r.c.miall(a)bham.ac.uk<mailto:r.c.miall@bham.ac.uk> Birmingham B15 2TT UK Web: http://prism.bham.ac.uk ----------------------------------------------------------

April 27, 2016

PhD position in Neural Data Science / Retina

by Philipp Berens

The labs of Philipp Berens (www.berenslab.org) and Thomas Euler (www.eulerlab.de) at the Center for Integrative Neuroscience (CIN) at the Eberhard-Karls-University of Tübingen are offering a PhD position (TV-L E13 65%) to be filled as soon as possible, with funding for 3 years. The successful candidate will combine experimental and computational approaches to study *neuronal cell type specific computations* in the mouse *retina*. The goal of the project is to provide an account of how the functional response properties of selected ganglion cell types arise from their anatomical structure, connectivity and dendritic integration properties. We envision a highly interdisciplinary project, where the successful candidate will perform state-of-the-art optical imaging and electrophysiological recordings and use computational approaches to analyze their data. The CIN offers a stimulating interdisciplinary scientific environment where research is carried out at all levels of neuroscience. The two labs are also part of the Institute for Ophthalmic Research (Eye Hospital Tübingen) and affiliated with the Bernstein Centre for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN). Furthermore, the project will be performed in collaboration with the lab of Tom Baden at the University of Sussex, UK (www.badenlab.org) We offer employment with a salary and social benefits based on the collective agreement for public service employees in the academic and science sector, TV-L. The Eberhard-Karls-University of Tübingen promotes gender equality and therefore particularly encourages female scientists to apply. Preferential status will be given to handicapped persons, if equally qualified. Requirements: • Background in statistics, machine learning and data analysis • Experience with electrophysiology and/or two-photon imaging or a strong desire to learn these techniques • Programming experience in Python, Matlab, R or similar • Strong quantitative skills Interested applicants should contact Dr. Philipp Berens (philipp.berens(a)uni-tuebingen.de) providing: • a curriculum vitae • a one-page description of past research experience & future research interests • a one-page description of the motivation for applying to this position • names of at least two people that could provide letters of reference Please compile your application in one single PDF-file. -- University of Tübingen http://philippberens.wordpress.com http://www.bethgelab.org

April 27, 2016

3 Fully Funded PhD Positions at the Cognitive Robotics and Interaction Lab of the Robotics, Brain and Cognitive Sciences Department at the Italian Institute of Technology

by Alessandra Sciutti

Apologies for cross-posting =========================================================================== PhD Openings at the Cognitive Robotics and Interaction Lab Robotics, Brain and Cognitive Sciences Department Italian Institute of Technology =========================================================================== In the spirit of the doctoral School on Bioengineering and Robotics the PhD Program for the curriculum Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies offers interdisciplinary training at the interface between technology and life-sciences. The objective of the PhD program is to form scientists and research technologists capable of working in multidisciplinary teams on projects where human factors play a crucial role in technological development and design. Robotics and neuroscience researchers in RBCS share, as a fundamental scientific objective, the study of physical and social interaction in humans and machines (www.iit.it/rbcs ). Among the different research themes proposed I would like to advertise these three topics: VISUO-HAPTIC EXPLORATION STRATEGIES FOR OBJECT RECOGNITION MAKE HUMANOIDS UNDERSTAND HUMAN ACTIONS MULTISENSORY HUMAN-ROBOT INTERACTION The ideal candidates are students with a higher level university degree willing to invest extra time and effort in blending into a multidisciplinary team composed of neuroscientists, engineers, psychologists, physicists working together to investigate brain functions and realize intelligent machines, rehabilitation protocols and advanced prosthesis. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to spend part of his/her PhD at the Osaka University and the University of Tokyo in the framework of the Marie Curie IRSES project CODEFROR (www.codefror.eu) , with the purpose of integrating his/her knowledge with the different expertise available at these institutes. International applications are encouraged and will receive logistic support with visa issues, relocation, etc. Below you can find more details related to the position and the instructions on how to apply. Application deadline: *****10 June 2016, Noon, Italian time***** Best regards, Alessandra Sciutti ----------------------------------------- Alessandra Sciutti (PhD) Researcher, Robotics Brain and Cognitive Sciences Dept. Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy email: alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it https://www.iit.it/people/alessandra-sciutti =========================================================================== Make humanoids understand human actions Tutors: Dr. Alessandra Sciutti, Dr. Francesco Rea, Prof. Giulio Sandini Department: RBCS (Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia) http://www.iit.it/rbcs =========================================================================== Description: Action understanding is a fundamental ability at the basis of human interaction. Neurophysiological evidence indicate that it is supported by a visuo-motor matching process: action observation activates in the observer a motor representation of the same action learned through execution, which yields to a rapid and automatic understanding of the action goal. Hence, visual action understanding requires a sensori-motor representation of the action, built by performing it and learning its motor and sensory consequences. The general aim of this project will be to provide the humanoid robot iCub with a similar visuo-motor matching skill in order to endow it with a human-like ability to understand human actions. In particular the robot will have to learn the motor (efference copy) and sensory (visual, joint angles, forces) consequences of its own actions to build a complete action representation. The research should determine which are the visual information needed to allow the recall of this model when the robot observes the same action performed by someone else. The work might take advantage of a computational system already available on the robot designed to localize the portion of the scene containing biological motion and extract some of its visual features . The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to spend part of his/her PhD at the Osaka University and the University of Tokyo in the framework of the Marie Curie IRSES project CODEFROR, with the purpose of integrating his/her knowledge with the different expertise available at these institutes. Requirements: degree in robotics, bioengineering, computer science, computer engineering, or related disciplines, attitude for problem solving, c++ programming. A background on machine learning is an asset. References: Sciutti A., Ansuini C., Becchio C. & Sandini G. 2015, Investigating the ability to read others intentions using humanoid robots, Frontiers in Psychology Cognitive Science, vol. 6,no. 1362 Noceti N., Sciutti A. & Sandini G. 2015, Cognition helps vision: recognizing biological motion using invariant dynamic cues, 18th International Conference on Image Analysis and Processing. Rizzolatti G, Craighero L. 2004 The mirror-neuron system. Annu Rev Neurosci 27:169192 Contacts: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the perspective tutors before they submit their application: alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it, francesco.rea(a)iit.it , giulio.sandini(a)iit.it =========================================================================== Multisensory human-robot interaction Tutors: Dr. Francesco Rea, Dr. Alessandra Sciutti, Prof. Giulio Sandini Department: RBCS (Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia) http://www.iit.it/rbcs =========================================================================== Description: Humans interact with each other by exploiting a variety of communicative cues across many different sensory channels. Communication signals range from speech to sounds in the auditory domain, from gestures to facial expressions in the visual domain and to different types of physical contacts in the haptic domain. Moreover, these signals can be explicitly communicative, as pointing or waving, or implicit and unconscious, as gaze direction or body movements speed. The activity we propose is to endow the humanoid robot iCub with a library of sensory and motor skills supporting all these communication possibilities. The robot will have first to detect the presence of a potential human partner nearby and then establish a communication with him by making use of these multisensory cues. The research will leverage on the current social capabilities of the robot iCub, as gaze tracking, biological motion detection, biologically plausible motion generation, etc. The selected candidate will have to integrate the existing skills and develop the missing abilities, in order to enable iCub to interact naturally with non-expert users across multiple sensory domains. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to spend part of his/her PhD at the Osaka University and the University of Tokyo in the framework of the Marie Curie IRSES project CODEFROR, with the purpose of integrating his/her knowledge with the different expertise available at these institutes. Requirements: Degree in robotics, bioengineering, computer science, computer engineering, or related disciplines, attitude for problem solving, c++ programming, as also willingness to make experiments with human participants. Strong motivation to work and adapt to a multidisciplinary environment. References:. Palinko O., Sciutti A., Rea F. & Sandini G., 2015, Eye Gaze Tracking for a Humanoid Robot in IEEE/RAS International Conference of Humanoids Robotics, Seoul, Korea, November 3-5 2015. Mosadeghzad M., Rea F., Tata M., Brayda L. & Sandini G. 2015, Saliency Based Sensor Fusion of Broadband Sound Localizer for Humanoids, 2015 IEEE International Conference on Multisensor Fusion and Information Integration (MFI 2015), San Diego, CA, USA, September 14-16, 2015; Sciutti A., Patanè L., Nori F. & Sandini G., 2014, Understanding object weight from human and humanoid lifting actions, IEEE Transactions on Autonomous Mental Development, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 80-92 doi: 10.1109/TAMD.2014.2312399 Contacts: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the perspective tutors before they submit their application: francesco.rea(a)iit.it , alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it, giulio.sandini(a)iit.it =========================================================================== Visuo-haptic exploration strategies for object recognition Tutors: Dr. Alessandra Sciutti, Dr. Francesco Rea, Prof. Giulio Sandini Department: RBCS (Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia) http://www.iit.it/rbcs =========================================================================== Description: In everyday situations human adults are capable of transferring information about objects from one sensory modality to the other. Objects explored visually can, at a later time, be analyzed, and recognized, by exploring them with our hands and, vice versa, we can visually recognize objects that have been previously explored haptically. This cross-modal transfer can be explained only through the use of a representation of objects merging visual and haptic information and perhaps by hypothesizing a shared exploratory strategy used when we explore objects visually or haptically. The main scientific objective of the project is to test this hypothesis by investigating how the transfer of information form one sensory modality to the other develops in humans and if different sensory channels share the same exploration strategy. A model of this ability could be implemented on the humanoid robot iCub to build and exploit a multisensory representation of manipulable objects, augmenting its ability to learn how to interact with the environment and with others. The successful candidate will conduct experimental investigation of human visuo-haptic explorative strategies by means of multiple techniques, as eye-tracking, motion capture and force measurements with ad hoc designed devices. The collected data will be used to model the exploration strategies both during healthy development and in presence of sensory deficits. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to spend part of his/her PhD at the Osaka University and the University of Tokyo in the framework of the Marie Curie IRSES project CODEFROR, with the purpose of integrating his/her knowledge with the different expertise available at these institutes. Requirements: The candidate for this position must have either a degree in Computer Science Engineering, Bioengineering or equivalent, with high interests in human sciences, or alternatively a degree in Psychology, with proven background in programming toolboxes (Matlab, R). References:. Gori M., Sciutti A., Burr D. & Sandini G. 2011, Direct and indirect haptic calibration of visual size judgments, PLoS ONE, vol. 6,no. 10, e25599. [ Sann, C. and Streri, A. (2007), Perception of object shape and texture in human newborns: evidence from cross-modal transfer tasks. Developmental Science, 10: 399410. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-7687.2007.00593.x Gori, M., Del Viva, M., Sandini, G., & Burr, D. C. (2008). Young children do not integrate visual and haptic form information. Current Biology, 18(9), 694-698. Contacts: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the perspective tutors before they submit their application: alessandra.sciutti(a)iit.it, francesco.rea(a)iit.it , giulio.sandini(a)iit.it =========================================================================== How to apply =========================================================================== Please note that the positions are available through the PhD course of Bioengineering and Robotics, curriculum on Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies, offered jointly by IIT and the University of Genoa. The official calls are available here: https://www.iit.it/phd-school under the section Research themes for the call for application to PhD Courses established in agreement with the Università degli Studi di Genova, XXXII cycle. Please have a look at the "tips and tricks" section which contains detailed instructions on how to apply and a list of documents you have to present. The link to the on-line application page is: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXII/ In case of problems or questions related to the application procedure, please contact: anastasia.bruzzone(a)iit.it =========================================================================== Application deadline: *****10 June 2016, Noon, Italian time****** ===========================================================================

April 27, 2016

Postdoctoral position in active touch sensing

by Calogero Oddo

Dear Colleagues, we are opening at least one postdoctoral position in active touch sensing within the Neuro-robotics Area of The BioRobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy. The recruited postdoctoral fellow(s) may be requested to contribute to the supervision of a growing research team, and will be involved in the development of artificial touch sensory systems, spanning from components level up to robotic system integration and data analysis via neuro-bio-inspired architectures for a wide range of applications, including neuroprosthetics, medical and industrial robotics. Both junior and senior post-docs can apply. Net salary may reach up to 2k€/month, depending on qualification. In our research group we target the engineering of an artificial tactile sense in parallel to the investigation of human touch. We develop and integrate novel transducers. We implement neuromorphic systems, with natural spike-based coding of tactile information. We analyse neural data to unveil the neuronal processes underlying the human sense of touch, and we implement behavioural protocols to characterize the perception of tactile features. The developed biorobotic technologies, complemented with a body of neuroscientific knowledge, converge in key application domains in bionic limb prostheses, safe human-machine co-work, tele-presence for medical robotics and hand-held consumer electronics. The ideal candidate shall have a subset of the following qualifications: - PhD in disciplines such as biorobotics, robotics, computational neuroscience, control and automation, electrical engineering, computer science - Experience in (real-time) programming with C/C++, LabVIEW Real-Time, LabVIEW FPGA - Experience in data-analysis via Matlab - Experience in designing printed circuit boards with software such as Eagle or Orcad - Experience in designing mechanical parts with software such as SolidWorks or PTC Creo - Experience in the development of spike-based neuro-robotic systems, with a particular focus on artificial touch - Track-record in publishing scientific papers in international journals - Track-record in the management of intellectual property issues - Ability to contribute to the preparation of research project proposals - Ability to contribute to didactic activities at graduate or undergraduate level - Ability to work in research teams and to contribute to co-supervision of junior team members - Excellent knowledge of English language Recent publications of our group include: 1. Oddo, C.M.; Raspopovic, S.; Artoni, F.; Mazzoni, A.; Spigler, G.; Petrini, F.; Giambattistelli, F.; Vecchio, F.; Miraglia, F.; Zollo, L.; Di Pino, G.; Camboni, D.; Carrozza, M.C.; Guglielmelli, E.; Rossini, P.M.; Faraguna, U.; Micera, S. Intraneural stimulation elicits discrimination of textural features by artificial fingertip in intact and amputee humans. Elife 2016. 2. Rongala, U.B.; Mazzoni, A.; Oddo, C.M. Neuromorphic Artificial Touch for Categorization of Naturalistic Textures. IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems 2015. 3. Rongala, U.B.; Mazzoni, A.; Camboni, D.; Carrozza, M.C.; Oddo, C.M. Neuromorphic artificial sense of touch: bridging robotics and neuroscience. International Symposium on Robotics Research 2015. 4. Salgarella, A.R.; Giudetti, G.; Ricotti, L.; Camboni, D.; Puleo, G.L.; Ruini, F.; Tonda-Turo, C.; Chiono, V.; Ciardelli, G.; Micera, S.; Menciassi, A.; Oddo, C.M. A bio-hybrid mechanotransduction system based on ciliate cells. Microelectronic Engineering 2015. 5. Klöcker, A.; Oddo, C.M.; Camboni, D.; Penta, M.; Thonnard, J.-L. Physical Factors Influencing Pleasant Touch during Passive Fingertip Stimulation. PloS One 2014. To express interest in this position, please contact: - Dr. Calogero Maria Oddo - c.oddo(a)sssup.it - Prof. Maria Chiara Carrozza - m.c.carrozza(a)sssup.it Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna (SSSA, http://www.santannapisa.it/en) is a public Italian university for research and advanced undergraduate and graduate education in the fields of Experimental and Social Sciences. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings of young universities, released in April 2016, SSSA ranked 10th worldwide among institutions that are aged 50 or younger and 5th worldwide among institutions that are aged 30 or younger. Post-graduate education and research activities at SSSA are structured within six Institutes. The present position is opened at The BioRobotics Institute, directed by Prof. Paolo Dario, which was specifically created to host the research activities of SSSA at the intersection between scientific research and technological innovation in robotics and bioengineering (http://sssa.bioroboticsinstitute.it) The BioRobotics Institute was formally established in 2011 and it gathers the experience of more than 20 years of research carried out by the ARTS and CRIM Labs, that were founded by Prof. Paolo Dario with the mission of addressing research in the field of Biorobotics and Biomechatronics with a strong interdisciplinary approach, integrating different knowledge backgrounds to study theoretical and technological problems related to the development of advanced robotic systems and microtechnologies. Please feel free to forward this call to colleagues or to any candidate that you may consider qualified. Thank you and best regards, Calogero Maria Oddo and Maria Chiara Carrozza -- Calogero M. Oddo PhD BioRobotics MSc, BSc Electronic Engineering Assistant Professor of Bioengineering Head of the Human Machine Nexus Laboratory Neuro-robotics Area The BioRobotics Institute Viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, 56025, Pontedera (PI), Italy Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy Tel: +39 050 88 3067 Mobile: +39 331 6992273 email: oddoc(a)sssup.it http://sssa.bioroboticsinstitute.it/user/102 http://sssa.bioroboticsinstitute.it/research/neurorobotics

April 27, 2016

Conf: Frontiers in Applied and Computational Mathematics, June 3-4, USA

by Casey Diekman

The 13th Annual Conference on Frontiers in Applied and Computational Mathematics (FACM '16) will be held at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) in Newark, New Jersey on June 3-4, 2016. The conference focuses on mathematical and computational aspects of materials science, mathematical neuroscience, computational wave propagation, biological and microscale fluid dynamics, statistics, and biostatistics. Researchers in these areas are invited to address the development of mathematical techniques for application to challenging problems. Plenary speakers: Robert Kass (Carnegie Mellon University), Mitchell Luskin (University of Minnesota), Laura Miller (UNC Chapel Hill), André Nachbin (IMPA, Brazil) *Travel funding for contributed poster presentations is available. Abstract submission and registration deadline is April 29, 2016.* Further details can be found at: http://m.njit.edu/Events/FACM16/

April 27, 2016

PhD position in swarm robotics available at UTC (Compiegne - France)

by Eliseo Ferrante

—apologies for multiple postings— A fully-funded three years PhD position in swarm robotics is available at the Laboratory of Excellence (LABEX) at the Université de Technologie de Compiègne (UTC) in France (www.utc.fr/labexms2t) The successful candidate will work with Dr. Eliseo Ferrante on exciting topics at the interface between swarm robotics, evolutionary biology, and statistical physics. The research direction will be managed by Dr. Ferrante in collaboration with the DIVINA project ( https://www.hds.utc.fr/labex-ms2t-484/news-rubrique/events/DIVINA/?lang=en) team led by Prof. Vincent Frémont. The PhD is expected to start in Fall 2016. The accepted candidate will work on a project focusing on the design of self-organized collective behaviors for performing collective exploration of a an unknown environment using a swarm of robots and principles of self-organization. The methods will be based on biological models of information retrieval and integration, such as distributed decision-making and collective categorization, which in turns recalls the cognitive mapping processes in the human brain. For a description of the research interests of Dr. Ferrante, please visit his website (https://bio.kuleuven.be/ento/ferrante/) Graduate students with background in computer science, physics, or biology and with specialization in artificial intelligence, statistical physics, computational modeling in biology, or robotics are encouraged to apply. The candidate is expected to be proficient in programming in languages such as C++ and Java, and to have solid knowledge of scientific software packages such as Matlab, R, and/or equivalent. Candidates with experience with multi-agent simulations will be highly preferred. Fluent English (written and spoken) is required, and only applications in English will be accepted. Above all, the applicants must be motivated, autonomous, and able to learn quickly and work effectively on challenging research problems. We will begin reviewing candidate's applications starting from June 2016. To apply, you can send the following documents to Eliseo.Ferrante(a)hds.utc.fr and Vincent.Fremont(a)hds.utc.fr: - Curriculum vitae - Motivation letter - At least two references and/or recommendation letters - A statement of research experience and interests - Any research articles authored by the applicant For any informal enquiry about the eligibility conditions, as well as for more details about the position, please contact Eliseo Ferrante < eliseo.ferrante(a)hds.utc.fr>.

April 26, 2016

Fully funded PhD position, University of Genoa, Italy - Binocular visuomotor systems

by Silvio P. Sabatini

Applications are invited for a fully-funded three-year PhD student position at "The Physical Structure of Perception and Computation" (PSPC) lab of the Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Italy. The position will start on Nov 1st, 2016 on the following research project: **Modeling the impaired binocular visual system** Expected results will concern: 1) a better understanding of the neural mechanisms that underlie the healthy and impaired visual system, 2) developing and assessing diagnostic and therapeutic methodologies for visual impairments, 3) inspiring design principles for artificial visual systems. The project will provide the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment in collaborations with engineers, neuroscientists and clinicians. Ongoing cooperations, at international level, and especially with: - Prof. Peter J. Bex, Translational Vision Lab, Northeastern University, Boston, MA. - Prof. Marty Banks, BanksLab, University of California - Berkeley, CA. will ensure a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating environment. The PhD will be fully funded, including stipend (EUR 1230 per month after taxes), fees, and a research training and support grant (EUR 1650 per year). * * HOW TO APPLY* Candidates must have: - a University degree at Master level (or expect to obtain it by October 31st, 2016) in Bioengineering, Computer Science, Physics, Applied Mathematics or related disciplines; - a keen interest in reverse-engineering the brain; - essential skills in Matlab and/or C/C++/C# or Python programming. Knowledge on computational neuroscience, machine learning, image processing are a plus. Experience with Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and CUDA programming is also a plus. Online application is possible till June 10th, 2016 (at noon) Italian time Full details on the call and the application procedure are available at: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXII/ENG/ http://phd.dibris.unige.it/biorob/index.php/how-to-apply _Informal inquiries regarding the position are encouraged.__ __Please contact:_ Silvio P. Sabatini (silvio.sabatini(a)unige.it) Also, a post-doc of mine (Agostino Gibaldi) will be available throughout the VSS 2016 conference, so please send him an email (agostino.gibaldi(a)unige.it) if you would like to set up a meeting. * * WHERE* DIBRIS is a unique inter-school department of the University of Genoa, bridging together researchers from the former Science and Engineering Faculties. It offers an excellent multidisciplinary, interactive and collaborative research environment combining expertise in computer vision, computational neuroscience, neuromorphic computing, robotics and mechatronics. PSPC-Lab has a long-standing expertise in visual coding and multidimensional signal representation, robot perception and computer vision. In the last years, the lab's research activity focused on the analysis of the structural mechanisms of visuo-spatial cognition, responsible for orienting and interacting in the 3D space. Our lab is located in Genoa, a small beautiful town in northern Italy, both from historical (its historical center is the largest of Europe) and naturalistic point of view (sea and mountains coexist creating a unique landscape). Genoa is only 1.30h away from Milan by train and connected by plane to Rome (1.00h), London (2h) and Paris (1.30h). Regards, -- --------------------------------------------------------------------- Silvio P. SABATINI, PhD [PSPC Research Group] Professor of Bioengineering DIBRIS - University of Genova | e_mail: silvio.sabatini(a)unige.it Via Opera Pia, 11A | phone: +39 010 3532092/3532794 I-16145 Genova (ITALY) | fax: +39 010 3532289/3536533 URL: http://pspc.unige.it --------------------------------------------------------------------- "Imagination is more important than knowledge..." [Albert Einstein]

April 26, 2016

Interdisciplinary post-doctoral position in cognitive neuroscience

by Schurger Lab

----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interdisciplinary post-doctoral position in cognitive neuroscience Brain-behavior forecasting: Neural antecedents of spontaneous self-initiated movement in humans and the perception of personal causation Starting date: Fall 2016 / Spring 2017 Duration: 2 years (renewable for one additional year) The French Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) invites applications for a post-doctoral position in the Cognitive Neuroimaging Group, at the NeuroSpin Research Center near Paris, France, as part of the research team of Dr. Aaron Schurger. The Schurger lab focuses on understanding how decisions are made and actions initiated spontaneously, without an external sensory cue, and how the relevant causal processes in the brain are related to the subjective perception of personal causation. We are also interested in how time series of neural activity can be used to forecast behavior. We pursue this research using a combination of behavioral experiments, neuroimaging, computational modeling, time-series analysis, and machine learning techniques. Applicants should have a obtained a PhD in a relevant discipline prior to the starting date, and should have strong skills in two or more of the following areas: neuroimaging techniques (MEG, EEG) and data-analysis tools, computer programming (MatLab, Python, C, C++), statistics, signal processing, machine learning, computational and/or neural network modeling, behavioral psychophysics, time-series analysis, forecast verification methods. Resources available at NeuroSpin include Siemens 3T and 7T MRI scanners; high-density EEG (EGI Inc.); Elekta NeuroMag 306-channel MEG (allowing for the simultaneous recording of EEG); eye tracking (available for MRI, MEG, and behavioral experiments); an in-house team of experts in signal processing and statistical learning; a dedicated staff handling subject recruitment, scheduling, and payment; various Nespresso devices; and proximity to Paris. Applicants should send a CV, letter of motivation (max 2 pages), and three letters of recommendation (or contact information for three references) via e-mail to schurgerlab(a)gmail.com. Review of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The NeuroSpin Research Center is located on the campus of the CEA-Saclay, near Orsay, about 18 km southwest of Paris. For more information on the NeuroSpin Research Center and the Cognitive Neuroimaging Group: http://www-centre-saclay.cea.fr/fr/Visite-guidee-de-NeuroSpin http://meg-france.in2p3.fr/_lesCentres/Neurospin_en.php http://www-dsv.cea.fr/en/institutes/institute-of-biomedical-imaging-i2bm/de… http://www.unicog.org/pm/pmwiki.php -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

April 26, 2016

Neuroinformatics 2016 in Reading, UK, September 3-4

by Ingo Bojak

April 26, 2016

post-doc in computational neuroscience and development...

by John Spencer (PSY)

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES SCHOOL OF PSYCHOLOGY UNIVERSITY OF EAST ANGLIA Senior Research Associate (1fte) £31,342 to £37,394 per annum, pro rata This role offers an exciting opportunity to be involved in innovative experimental research with young children as well as extensive process-based modelling using dynamic neural fields. The programme aims to test the first formal theory of early word learning that integrates visual object processing and word learning across multiple timescales. The successful applicant will work closely with Profs. Larissa Samuelson and John Spencer. You will take a lead role in the project, coordinating dynamic neural field simulations and related theory development, developing and running experiments with young children, and analysing and reporting data. The post is available on a full-time (1fte) basis from 15 June 2016 for a fixed term period until 31 May 2020. The post is subject to a criminal records check at enhanced level from the Disclosure and Barring Service. Closing date: 12 noon on 21 May 2016. Further particulars and an application form are available on our website: www.uea.ac.uk/hr/vacancies/<http://www.uea.ac.uk/hr/vacancies/> or Tel. 01603 593493 John P. Spencer, PhD Professor School of Psychology, Room 0.09 Lawrence Stenhouse Building, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ United Kingdom Email: j.spencer(a)uea.ac.uk<mailto:j.spencer@uea.ac.uk> School website: http://www.uea.ac.uk/psy Telephone 01603 593968 [cid:image001.png@01D09851.EF67E200] UK Top 20 (16th Complete University Guide 2015, 18th Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2015-16) UK 2nd for Student Satisfaction (National Student Survey 2015) World Top 1% (Times Higher Education World Rankings 2015-16) World Top 100 (Leiden Ranking 2015) [facebook]<http://www.facebook.com/ueaofficial> [twitter-old] <http://www.twitter.com/uniofeastanglia> [tumblr] <http://uniofeastanglia.tumblr.com/> [flickr] <http://www.flickr.com/uniofeastanglia> [linkedin] <http://www.linkedin.com/edu/school?id=12699> [youtube] <http://www.youtube.com/ueaofficial> [cid:image008.png@01CF8BB5.50024060] <http://instagram.com/uniofeastanglia>

April 26, 2016

Call for abstracts - Neuromechanics 2016 - Approaching abstract submission deadline

by Manish Sreenivasa

*International Symposium on the Neuromechanics of Human Movement* 4-6 October 2016, Heidelberg, Germany Reminder: Approaching abstract submission deadline, 30th April 2016 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Researchers working in neuroscience, biomechanics and robotics with a focus on human movements are invited to submit their work to the Neuromechanics 2016 symposium: http://orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/neuromechanics2016/abstract-submissions/ The symposium will feature talks by renowned speakers working in, and across, these fields. In addition, there will be poster sessions and ample opportunities for discussions in formal and informal settings. List of speakers: http://orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/neuromechanics2016/speakers/ Researchers are welcome to present their work as posters or fill the few remaining speaker slots (please indicate your preference during submission). Please note that this will be a 2.5 day single track event with a limited number of participants. As an added incentive, selected high quality abstracts will be invited to submit full length papers to the newly established journal research topic titled: "Neuromechanics and Control of Physical Behavior: from Experimental and Computational Formulations to Bio-inspired Technologies". The research topic is edited by Massimo Sartori, Manish Sreenivasa, Alfred Schouten, Matthew Tresch, Yoshihiko Nakamura and Francisco Valero-Cuevas, and appears in the journals Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience, and, Frontiers in Neurorobotics: journal.frontiersin.org/researchtopic/4698 -- Dr. Manish Sreenivasa Optimization in Robotics & Biomechanics Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing University of Heidelberg Berlinerstr. 45 | 69120 Heidelberg | Germany Tel: +49-6221-54-14874 Web: orb.iwr.uni-heidelberg.de/people/manish

April 26, 2016

Save the date! 5th Annual Winter q-bio Meeting in HAWAII Feb. 21-24, 2017!

by Santamaria, Cookie

THE FIFTH ANNUAL WINTER Q-BIO MEETING Quantitative Biology on the Hawaiian Islands February 21-24, 2017 http://w-qbio.org/ SAVE THE DATE!! More details to come, but our fifth anniversary venue will be at the Grand Hyatt<http://kauai.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html> in Kauai! The Winter q-bio meeting brings together scientists and engineers who are interested in all areas of q-bio. Technology is driving revolutionary changes in biology. Systems Biology has arisen as the deduction of interaction networks from -omics data generated in the wake of remarkable technological achievements. Likewise, DNA synthesis technologies are driving the development of Synthetic Biology, whereby engineered circuitry and even entire genomes can be reconstituted from chemical building blocks. These two emerging areas have catalyzed the growth of Quantitative Biology, whereby the central goal is the deduction of quantitative principles that can be used to construct predictive models for biological phenomena. The venue for 2017 is the Grand Hyatt, which is located in Poipu, on the island of Kauai. This remarkable resort is balanced between magnificent lush mountains and the azure sea, among the wonders of the Garden Isle. CONFERENCE ORGANIZERS: Jeff Hasty, University of California, San Diego Galit Lahav, Harvard University Wendell Lim, University of California, San Francisco Gurol Suel, University of California, San Diego Olga Troyanskaya, Princeton & Simons Center for Data Analysis Lev Tsimring, University of California, San Diego We encourage you to forward this message to any colleagues who may be interested in taking part in this exciting event. Questions should be emailed to: coordinator(a)w-qbio.org<mailto:coordinator@w-qbio.org> SPONSORED BY: UC San Diego BioCircuits Institute and the San Diego Center for Systems Biology UC San Diego Divisions of Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, q-bio, and Engineering UC San Francisco Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology

April 25, 2016

Deadline Approaching: Gordon Research Conference & Seminar on Neurobiology of Cognition

by Sarah Heilbronner

We would like to invite you to apply for the 2016 Gordon Research Conference on Neurobiology of Cognition, "Neural Circuits for Perception, Memory, Thought, and Consciousness." The Gordon Research Conference will be held July 24-29 at Sunday River, ME. More information, including a list of speakers, can be found here: https://www.grc.org/programs.aspx?id=14548 The Gordon Research Seminar for postdocs and graduate students will precede the main conference (July 23-24). Please note that the deadline for submitting an abstract to be considered for a GRS talk is April 30! More information can be found here: https://www.grc.org/programs.aspx?id=16594 We look forward to seeing many of you in Maine this summer. Best, Tatiana Pasternak & David Leopold, GRC chairs Brian Russ & Sarah Heilbronner, GRS chairs

April 25, 2016

postdocotral fellowship: empirical testing of integrated information theory with neural recordings

by Naotsugu Tsuchiya

Advertisement: Postdoctoral position at Monash University, Australia. A postdoctoral position is available to work on a JST (Japan Science and Technology) funded CREST research project on “Towards constructing artificial consciousness based on the integrated information theory (IIT)” (PIs: Kanai, Kawanabe and Maekawa, Co-PIs: Tsuchiya and Oizumi), which started in Oct 2015 and will run for 5.5 years till Mar 2021. The initial appointment will be for one year, with renewal based upon satisfactory performance and evaluation. Salary will be commensurate with experience. We are looking for a postdoctoral fellow whose main research interest is the neuronal basis of consciousness, the analysis of multi-channel neural data and the integrated information theory (IIT) of consciousness, in order to empirically test predictions from IIT in real neural systems For those who are interested, please check out the following key papers for the project. 1. Measuring integrated information from the decoding perspective http://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.10046… 2. A unified framework for information integration based on information geometry http://arxiv.org/abs/1510.04455 3. Contents of Consciousness Investigated as Integrated Information in Direct Human Brain Recordings http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2016/02/15/039032 You will be employed at Araya Brain Imaging (CEO: Kanai) in Japan, but the actual location of work will be conducted at A/Prof NaotsuguTsuchiya's lab in Monash University, Australia. There will be some travels between Japan and Australia at least twice a year to maximise interactions within the team in Japan. Required skills: excellent programming, familiarity in key mathematical concepts especially machine learning and information theory. Excellence in written and oral English communication skills, as supported by objective publication recorded, will be essential. Monash University, one of the eight top universities in Australia (G8), is forming a strong cluster of consciousness researchers, called Monash Neuroscience of Consciousness (MoNoC http://ochinpun.wix.com/monoc#!who_we_are/c139r) ranging from philosophers, neurophysiologists, and psychologists. We are located in the building with excellent cognitive neuroscience tools available (simultaneous EEG & fMRI experiments and EEG/TMS & fMRI experiments at Monash Brain Imaging facility, which hosts a research-only MRI scanner, EEG, TMS and eye tracking. http://mbi.monash.edu.au/) Interested candidates are encouraged to send a CV, statement of research accomplishments and interests, PDF copies of representative publications, and contact information for 2 reference letters to: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu Application review will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Best wishes, Nao Tsuchiya -- -- *Nao (Naotsugu) Tsuchiya* Associate Professor *Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences* Attention and Memory Program School of Psychological Sciences Monash University 770 Blackburn Monash Brain Imaging facility, Clayton, VIC 3800 Australia T: +61 3 9905 4564 E: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu W: homepage: http://users.monash.edu.au/~naotsugt/Tsuchiya_Labs_Homepage http://med.monash.edu.au/psych/email-sig/miccn-email-sig.jpg <http://www.monash.edu/neuro-institute/> 2. ARC Future Fellow 3. Visiting Researcher at Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging, Advanced Telecommunications Research (ATR), Japan 4. Visiting Researcher at CiNet, Osaka University, Japan orcid.org/0000-0003-4216-8701

April 25, 2016

Last Call for Abstracts in Brain/Computer/Machine Interfacing and Neuromodulation

by Camille Grigsby-Rocca

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the final call for abstracts for Neuromodulation: The Science Conference, for the Neurovations Awards for Scientific Excellence in Neuromodulation. Submissions are due this Friday, April 29, 2016 for our upcoming neuroscience summit, slated for May 25-29, 2016 in San Francisco. See the Abstract Submission Guidelines here<http://ntsconference.com/neurovations-award/>. The Scientific Committee is accepting abstracts for posters presenting original basic or clinical scientific research or updates in brain/computer/machine interfacing, neuromodulation of the brain and nervous system, and bioengineering. Three prizes in the amounts of $3000, $2000, and $1000 are available for the posters selected by the committee. Awards will be presented on the final day of the conference. All posters must be attended by a registered conference attendee. Early registration rates are available through April 29. Discounted lodging rates at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero, San Francisco, run until April 29. Abstracts will be accepted through April 29. We would be grateful if you would share this information with your colleagues, and hope to see you at our meeting next month. More information is available at ntsconference.com - I have also included more below on our poster requirements and meeting, including our full Scientific Committee. Please email education(a)neurovations.com directly with any further questions. VIEW THE FULL CONFERENCE PROGRAM HERE<http://ntsconference.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/NTS_agenda_040516.pdf>. With warm regards, Camille Grigsby-Rocca Neurovations Education ________________________________ SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE Elliot Krames, MD Past President INS, Founding Editor of Neuromodulation Eric Grigsby, MD, MBA CEO, Neurovations Clinical Research and Education Founder, Napa Pain Institute, the SpectrumCare Group Peter Staats, MD Premier Pain Centers, Past President, NANS Joe Pancrazio, PhD Associate Provost and Professor of Biomedical Engineering at University of Texas at Dallas Hunter Peckham, PhD Professor Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University Dominique Durand, PhD El Lindseth Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve Universtiy Magdy Hassouna, MD, PhD Department of Urology, University of Toronto Ali Rezai, MD Director, OSU Neuroscience Program, Stanley and Jodi Ross Chair in Neuromodulation, Associate Dean of Neurosciences, Professor of Neurosurgery and Neuroscience Robert Gross, MD, PhD Professor, Departments of Neurosurgery, Neurology, Biomedical Engineering, and Neuroscience,Director, Functional, Stereotactic & Epilepsy Surgery Division Tony Yaksh, PhD Distinguished Professor in Anesthesiology and Pharmacology and Vice Chairman for Research in Anesthesiology(1988-present), Co-director of the Pain and Symptom Management Core of the UCSD Regional Cancer Center Chad Bouton, MS Division Leader, Neurotechnology and Analytics, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Managing Director, Center for Bioelectronic Medicine Simon Thomson, MD Past President, INS Bengt Linderoth, MD, PhD Professor of Neurosurgery, retired, Karolinska Institute Robert Foreman, PhD George Lynn Cross Research Professor, University of Oklahoma, Dept of Physiology, retired Michael DeJongste, MD, PhD Faculty of Medical Sciences, Dept of Cardiology, University of Groningen Jiande Chen, PhD Professor of Medicine and Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University

April 25, 2016

Funded PhD studentship in eye-hand coordination in virtual reality (UK/EU students only)

by Sang-Hoon Yeo

Development of a low-cost, virtual reality based eye-hand coordination assessment system for home-based rehabilitation Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo and Dr Ned Jenkinson, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences University of Birmingham, UK Starting October 2016, We have a funded PhD studentship available for UK and EU (who have been in UK for more than 3 years) students. The goal of this 3 year PhD project is 1) to develop a novel virtual reality based hardware and software platform that can capture and assess the three-dimensional eye-hand coordination patterns during interceptive movements and 2) to build a computational model that will advance our quantitative understanding of the brain’s interception mechanism. One unique and innovative aspect of the development is that the whole system will consist of consumer-level display and motion tracking devices (head mounted display, e.g. Oculus Rift, with and eye tracking ability and magnetic sensor based 3D joysticks), of which the total cost will be no more than £1,000. This will allow us to build a cost-effective, home-based health care system that can be easily distributed to patients’ home, which will quantitatively evaluate the patient’s sensorimotor performance, detect and prevent preemptively any potential neuromotor disorders, and help patient’s rehabilitation following neuromotor disease. We are looking for motivated people to participate in the development of the experimental platform, data collection and computational modelling / analysis. The ideal candidate will have a background in computer science, robotics, psychology, mathematics, physics, and have some experience (or at least a keen interest) in one or more of the following fields: human movement experiment, motion capture, eye-tracking, computer animation, virtual reality, software development. Please contact Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo (s.yeo(a)bham.ac.uk) for further information. Deadline for application is 20-MAY-2016. Best wishes, Sang-Hoon -- Dr Sang-Hoon Yeo Lecturer in Biomechanics and Motor Control School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences The University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom +44(0)121 414 8748

April 24, 2016

CALL FOR SUBMISSION for the Fourth International Conference on CSCEET 2017 in Lebanon

by Grace Allas

*** CALL FOR PAPERS SUBMISSION *** The Fourth International Conference on Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Education Technologies (CSCEET2017) April 26-28, 2017 Faculty of Engineering - Lebanese University Beirut, Lebanon http://sdiwc.net/conferences/csceet2017/ ---------------------------------------------------------- All registered papers will be submitted to IEEE for potential inclusion to IEEE Xplore The conference aims to enable researchers build connections between different digital applications. The event will be held over three days, with presentations delivered by researchers from the international community, including presentations from keynote speakers and state-of-the-art lectures. RESEARCH TOPICS ARE NOT LIMITED TO: • Information and Data Management • Social Networks • Data Compression • Information Content Security • E-Technology • Mobile, Ad Hoc and Sensor Network Management • E-Government • Web Services Architecture, Modeling and Design • E-Learning • Semantic Web, Ontologies • Wireless Communications • Web Services Security • Mobile Networking, Mobility and Nomadicity • Quality of Service, Scalability and Performance • Ubiquitous Computing, Services and Applications • Self-Organizing Networks and Networked Systems • Data Mining • Data Management in Mobile Peer-to-Peer Networks • Computational Intelligence • Data Stream Processing in Mobile/Sensor Networks • Biometrics Technologies • Indexing and Query Processing for Moving Objects • Forensics, Recognition Technologies and Applications • Cryptography and Data Protection • Information Ethics • User Interfaces and Usability Issues form Mobile Applications • Fuzzy and Neural Network Systems • Mobile Social Networks • Signal Processing, Pattern Recognition and Applications • Peer-to-Peer Social Networks • Image Processing • Sensor Networks and Social Sensing • Distributed and parallel applications • Social Search • Internet Modeling • Embedded Systems and Software • User Interfaces, Visualization and Modeling • Real-Time Systems • XML-Based Languages • Multimedia Computing • Network Security • Software Engineering • Remote Sensing --------------------------------------------------------------- IMPORTANT DATES Submission Deadline : Open from now until Feb 26, 2017 Notification of Acceptance : March 11, 2017 or 4 weeks from the date of submission Camera Ready Submission : March 26, 2017 Registration Deadline : March 26, 2017 Paper Submission: http://sdiwc.net/conferences/csceet2017/openconf/openconf.php Write us for more details: csceet17(a)sdiwc.net

April 24, 2016

NEURAL COMPUTATION - May 1, 2016

by Terry Sejnowski

Neural Computation - Volume 28, Number 5 - May 1, 2016 Available online for download now: http://www.mitpressjournals.org/toc/neco/28/5 ----- Article Causal Inference on Discrete Data via Estimating Distance Correlations Furui Liu, Laiwan Chan Note A Mathematical Motivation for Complex-valued Convolutional Networks Mark Tygert, Joan Bruna, Soumith Chintala, Yann LeCun, Serkan Piantino, and Arthur Szlam Letters Learning Precise Spike Train to Spike Train Transformations in Multilayer Feedforward Neuronal Networks Arunava Banerjee Separating Spike Count Correlation From Firing Rate Correlation Giuseppe Vinci, Valerie Ventura, Matthew A. Smith, and Robert E. Kass Effect of Reference Scheme on Power and Phase of the Local Field Potential Vinay Shirhatti, Ayon Borthakur, and Supratim Ray State Space Analysis of Granger-Geweke Causality With Application to fMRI Victor Solo Whole-Body Reaching Movements Formulated by Minimum Muscle-Tension Change Criterion Naoki Kudo, Kyuheong Choi, Takahiro Kagawa, and Yoji Uno Recurrent Neural Network for Computing Outer Inverse Ivan S. Zivkovic, Predrag S. Stanimirovic, and Yimin Wei ------------ ON-LINE -- http://www.mitpressjournals.org/neuralcomp SUBSCRIPTIONS - 2016 - VOLUME 28 - 12 ISSUES Student/Retired $78 Individual $138 Institution $1,108 MIT Press Journals, One Rogers Street, Cambridge, MA 02142-1209 Tel: (617) 253-2889 FAX: (617) 577-1545 journals-cs(a)mit.edu ------------

April 24, 2016

Postdoctoral position at UC Santa Barbara

by Yon Visell

We are seeking a highly creative and motivated postdoctoral fellow to work in the RE Touch Lab (http://www.re-touch-lab.com) College of Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, within a multidisciplinary team of roboticists, engineers, and scientists. The successful candidate will undertake research aimed at illuminating biomechanical mechanisms of sensory information processing in the upper limb. We are using novel instrumentation, 3D imaging techniques, and computational modeling, in order to characterize sensory information processing associated with soft tissue dynamics in the whole limb, including signals associated with multi-digit grasping and manipulation. The results will guide the design of new interactive technologies with applications in VR and robotics. We are interested in candidates with possible expertise in a number of potential areas, including any of the following: - Perception; Decision theory - Signal processing - Probabilistic and computational models of behavior - Deformable image registration Consideration will be given to candidates with strong quantitative skills and a recent (< 5 years) PhD in a relevant field (computational neuroscience, psychology, computer science, engineering, etc). A PhD is required. Salary will be highly competitive. The RE Touch Lab is affiliated with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (http://ece.ucsb.edu) and the Media Arts and Technology Graduate Program (http://www.mat.ucsb.edu) an interdisciplinary program at the convergence of art, multimedia and engineering. The lab is physically integrated in the UCSB California NanoSystems Institute - A unique institution combining multiple Engineering departments at UCSB, and whose faculty include Nobel Prize winners, Fields Medal winners, Technical Academy Award winners, and multiple National Academy of Science members. With world-class facilities set in a beautiful mediterranean climate on the California shore, the University of California, Santa Barbara College of Engineering is rated among the top 10 in the world. Interested parties should contact Professor Yon Visell <yonvisell(a)ece.ucsb.edu> for information. Applicants are asked to a CV, copies of relevant publications, and contact information for at least three references. The Department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. _________________________________________________________ Yon Visell, PhD Assistant Professor University of California, Santa Barbara Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Media Arts & Technology Graduate Program Mechanical Engineering Department www.re-touch-lab.com Mobile: +1 267 800 8960 _________________________________________________________

April 23, 2016

DENDRITES 2016, June 18-21, Crete: EMBO travel fellowships

by Yiota Poirazi

Please post this announcement on the comp-neuro list. Thanks much! Yiota Poirazi ----------------------- Dear colleagues, We are happy to announce additional support from EMBO for the DENDRITES 2016 EMBO Workshop <www.dendrites2016.gr>. As a result: *A.* Early registration rates extend to May 31st, 2016 B. We offer *six* travel fellowships (up to 500 Euro) provided by EMBO for participants of the DENDRITES 2016 meeting working in *Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain* and*Turkey*. Interested candidates, including both registered and new participants, must submit: 1) a short Resume 2) a short statement of why they wish to attend the workshop and why financial support is critical for them 3) at least one letter of recommendation The above should be submitted by email to poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr by *May 8th, 2016*. Awardees will be announced on *May 15th, 2016*. on behalf of the organizing committee, Yiota Poirazi *---------------------------------- EMBO Workshop on Dendritic Anatomy, Molecules and Function (DENDRITES 2016)* Heraklion, Crete, Greece June 18-21, 2016 http://dendrites2016.gr/ <http://www.dendrites2016.gr/> info(a)dendrites2016.gr <mailto:info@dendrites.gr> _Organizers:_ Yiota Poirazi, IMBB-FORTH Michael Hausser, UCL * * Matthew Larkum, Humboldt University _Invited speakers (scientific talks): _ Claudia Clopath Daniel Dombeck Casper Hoogenraad Arthur Konnerth Attila Losonczy Judit Makara Rishikesh Narayanan Elly Nedivi Jackie Schiller Erin Schuman Idan Segev Nelson Spruston Greg Stuart _Invited speakers (Career Issues in academia):_ Monica Di Luca, FENS President: "Publication issues: right time for a reality check" Camilla Belone, FENS-Kavli Scholar: "Retention of women in high levels of neuroscience - Perspectives" Emre Yaksi, FENS-Kavli Scholar: "Funding opportunities in Neuroscience: how to write a successful grant proposal" Matthew Larkum: "How to write an influential scientific publication" -- Panayiota Poirazi, Ph.D. Director of Research Computational Biology Laboratory Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) Vassilika Vouton, P.O.Box 1385 GR 711 10 Heraklion, Crete, GREECE Tel: +30 2810 391139 <tel:+30%202810%20391139> Fax: +30 2810 391101 <tel:+30%202810%20391101> Εmail: poirazi(a)imbb.forth.gr <mailto:poirazi@imbb.forth.gr> http://www.dendrites.gr Chair http://www.fens.org/Outreach/FENS-Kavli-Network-of-Excellence/ -

April 23, 2016

MSc program in Neuroscience - Univ. Freiburg, Germany

by Carsten Mehring

MSc program in Neuroscience - University of Freiburg, Germany We are inviting applications for the interdisciplinary MSc program in Neuroscience at the University of Freiburg, Germany. The program provides theoretical and practical training in neuroscience, covering both the foundations and latest research in the field. It is taught by lecturers from an international scientific community from three faculties and two neuroscience research centres. The modular course structure caters to the specific backgrounds and research interests of each individual student and we offer specialisations in computational neuroscience, neuro-/optophysiology, neurotechnology and developmental neuroscience. All courses are taught in English and the program is free of tuition fees. We welcome applications with a background in natural sciences, mathematics, behavioural sciences, computer science or engineering sciences. The deadline for applications for a start in October 2016 is the 15th of July (EU students) or the 31st of May (non-EU students). Further details can be found on our homepage http://www.mscneuro.uni-freiburg.de <http://www.mscneuro.uni-freiburg.de/> Please contact mscneuro@uni-freiburg,de for further questions. With best regards Carsten Mehring — Bernstein Center Freiburg & Faculty of Biology University of Freiburg

April 23, 2016

Fully funded PhD position, University of Genoa, Italy – "Computational Neuroengineering"

by Silvio P. Sabatini

Applications are invited for one full-time PhD studentship for a period of 3 years, at the Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Italy. The position will start on Nov 1st, 2016 on the following research project: *Sensory processing in large-scale hierarchical networks of interacting neuronal assemblies* Feed-forward networks provide a minimal framework to study coding and decoding strategies as well as to interpret certain aspects of cortical information processing. Following this architectural paradigm, deep networks have been proposed to specialize for different perceptual tasks, for taking decisions, or planning motor acts. However, such networks rely on an over-simplification in which single nodes model homogeneous population of cells and connections represent average interactions among populations (i.e., meta-network approach). The proposed project aims to increase the complexity and the realism of this model by designing and analyzing the behavior of large-scale hierarchical network of interacting neuronal assemblies. Each node should be modeled as an assembly composed of excitatory and inhibitory neurons with their own dynamics. The neurons of each assembly will respond to properties of the visual signal through their afferent receptive fields. Yet, their overall behavior will emerge from recurrent interactions, and will be ruled by network-parameters, like balance between excitation and inhibition, kind of connectivity, number of neurons of each of these assemblies. The goal is to develop a new model and to investigate the role of specific vs. unspecific inhibition on the tuning properties of the single cells, and on the efficiency of the code provided by the emerging functionally homogeneous populations, and on their attendant adaptation capabilities. The dynamic properties of the network will be analyzed in relation with the interconnections topology, and eventually related to its sensory processing capabilities. The research will be conducted at the NBT and PSPC labs of DIBRIS, under the joint guidance of Paolo Massobrio and Silvio P. Sabatini. Successful applicants would have a background (M.Sc. degree) in bioengineering, computer science, physics or related disciplines; strong interest in computational neuroscience; attitude for problem solving. Interests in understanding/learning basic biology. Essential skills comprise Matlab and/or C++/C# programming. Experience in computational neuroscience is a plus. * HOW TO APPLY Candidates must have: - a University degree at Master level (or expect to obtain it by October 31st, 2016) in Bioengineering, Computer Science, Physics or related disciplines; - strong interest in computational neuroscience; attitude for problem solving. Interests in understanding/learning basic biology. - Essential skills comprise Matlab and/or C++/C# programming. Experience in computational neuroscience is a plus. Online application is possible till June 10th, 2016 (at noon) Italian time Full details on the call and the application procedure are available at: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXII/ENG/ http://phd.dibris.unige.it/biorob/index.php/how-to-apply Prospective students, please contact either Paolo Massobrio (paolo.massobrio(a)unige.it) or Silvio P. Sabatini (silvio.sabatini(a)unige.it) providing your CV and qualifications, the name and contact details of two references, and a description of your research interests. * WHERE NBT-Lab has a recognized experience in the field of in vitro electrophysiology (gained through several national and international projects), computational neuroscience and neuroengineering. Currently, the main goal of the lab is the understanding of the interplay between dynamics and connectivity in large-scale neuronal networks. PSPC-Lab has a long-standing expertise in visual coding and multidimensional signal representation, robot perception and computer vision. In the last years, the lab’s research activity focused on the analysis of the structural mechanisms of visuo-spatial cognition, responsible for orienting and interacting in the 3D space. Our labs are located in Genova, a small beautiful town in northern Italy, both from historical (its historical center is the largest of Europe) and naturalistic point of view (sea and mountains coexist creating a unique landscape). Genova is only 1.30h away from Milan by train and connected by plane to Rome (1.00h), London (2h) and Paris (1.30h). Regards, -- --------------------------------------------------------------------- Silvio P. SABATINI, PhD [PSPC Research Group] Professor of Bioengineering DIBRIS - University of Genova | e_mail:silvio.sabatini@unige.it Via Opera Pia, 11A | phone: +39 010 3532092/3532794 I-16145 Genova (ITALY) | fax: +39 010 3532289/3536533 URL:http://pspc.unige.it --------------------------------------------------------------------- "Imagination is more important than knowledge..." [Albert Einstein]

April 22, 2016

Research Scientist: Machine Learning, Signal Processing, Neuroscience

by Behnood Gholami

AreteX Systems, a medical technology startup company accelerating the use of information technology in healthcare, has an immediate opening for a Research Scientist in its office located in the New York City area. The position involves developing signal processing algorithms for innovative biomedical technologies involving physiological signals. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly talented individual with an excellent background in signal processing and machine learning. The successful candidate will work closely with a team of physicians, nurses, engineers, and scientists in designing new clinical decision support systems. Candidates with experience in the analysis of experimental data derived from---but not limited to---auditory/visual/cross-sensory psychophysical, ECG, and galvanic-skin conductance, data would be given a higher priority. *Minimum Requirements:* - PhD in electrical engineering, computer science, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, applied mathematics, or a similar discipline. - Knowledge of machine learning techniques. - Experience with Python. - *Applicants must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. permanent residents. * - Applicants must have received a Ph.D. degree in the seven years prior to the application date. *Preferred Qualifications:* - Prior expertise and exposure using non-invasive human physiological measures such as ECG, galvanic-skin conductance (electrodermal activity), or other categorically similar methodologies. - Prior experience in feature extraction from physiological signals. - Experience working with quantitative methods of neural data analysis. - Knowledge of advanced concepts in signal processing. - Research experience in biosignal and EEG analysis. Please send your cover letter and CV to info(a)aretexeng.com *About AreteX Systems:* AreteX Systems is accelerating the use of information technology in healthcare. Our innovative solutions help reduce intensive care unit costs and increase quality of care. Our core technology utilizes mathematical modeling to predict patient outcome and improve quality of care. The technology provides an efficient method to analyze and interpret patient data already available at the hospitals.

April 21, 2016

Postdoctoral Position at The Rockefeller University

by George Reeke

Postdoctoral position in Computational Neuroscience A postdoctoral position supported by the BRAIN initiative is available at The Rockefeller University under the guidance of George Reeke in collaboration with Charles Gilbert and Winrich Freiwald. The overall project will study cortical mechanisms of face and object recognition and more specifically the influence of top-down task and attentional influences on cortical dynamics and perceptual learning in areas of the visual cortical pathway. The computational work will involve developing and running large-scale spiking models of multiple cortical regions studied in the overall project, with the goal of developing an accurate theoretical understanding of the phenomena observed in the experimental research. We are also interested in trying to combine aspects of neural-ensemble style modeling with single-cell modeling where possible to achieve computational efficiency without sacrifice of biological realism, and in devising better statistical approaches for analyzing correlations between firing in different brain areas and between firing records and modeling results. Rockefeller is installing a high-performance computing system with a large number of both CPU and GPU nodes which will provide a state-of- the-art platform for the proposed computational studies. The successful candidate should, ideally, have a Ph.D. in a relevant area of neuroscience with a strong knowledge of mammalian visual systems and experience programming and running models of neuronal systems. The candidate will be expected to develop suitable software to supplement the available tools as needed and will be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Interested individuals should send a c.v. and the names of three references to Dr. George Reeke (reeke(a)rockefeller.edu) with a subject line "Computational Neuroscience postdoc position". The position is available immediate- ly, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The Rockefeller University is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans.

April 21, 2016

Call for applications: Brains for Brains Young Researchers' Computational Neuroscience Award 2016

by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder

Dear colleagues, for the seventh time, the Bernstein Association for Computational Neuroscience<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association> is announcing the "Brains for Brains Young Researchers' Computational Neuroscience Award". The call is open for researchers of any nationality who have contributed to a peer reviewed publication (as coauthor) or peer reviewed conference abstract (as first author) that was submitted before starting their doctoral studies, is written in English and was accepted or published in 2015 or 2016. The award is endowed with a travel grant of 2.000 € to cover a trip to Germany, including participation in the Bernstein Conference 2016 in Berlin (www.bernstein-conference.de<http://www.bernstein-conference.de>), and an individually planned visit to up to two German research institutions in Computational Neuroscience. Deadline for application is May 20, 2016 (5:00 p.m. CET). Detailed information about the application procedure can be found under: www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association/brains-for-brains-2016<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association/brains-for-brains-2016> For inquiries please contact bernstein.network(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.network@fz-juelich.de> Best regards, Kerstin Schwarzwälder -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

April 21, 2016

Reminder: Valentino Braitenberg Award for Computational Neuroscience - Call for Nominations

by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder

Dear Colleagues, Please let me remind you that the Bernstein Association for Computational Neuroscience<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association> invites nominations for the Valentino Braitenberg Award for Computational Neuroscience. The award is biannually presented by the Bernstein Association to a scientist in recognition of outstanding research that contributes to our understanding of the functioning of the brain. The major criterion for the award is the impact or potential impact of the recipient's research on the field of brain science. In the spirit of Valentino Braitenberg's research, special emphasis is given to theoretical studies elucidating the functional implications of brain structures and their neuronal network dynamics. The awardee receives a €5.000 prize donated by the Autonome Provinz Bozen Südtirol as well as complimentary participation (registration, travel, and hotel accomodation) in the Bernstein Conference 2016. Here, the prize is awarded together with a Golden Neuron pin badge in a special ceremony that includes the Valentino Braitenberg lecture given by the awardee. Nominations may be submitted by scientists working in the field of Computational Neuroscience and should include the following documents: - One-page laudation, in which the scientific work of the candidate is honored with regard to the award's criteria - CV and list of publications Deadline for nominations is April 30, 2016 by e-mail to an.huber(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:an.huber@fz-juelich.de> The call for nominations can be found under the followingn URL: www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association/valentino-braitenberg-award-for-comput…<http://www.nncn.de/en/bernstein-association/valentino-braitenberg-award-for…> For inquiries please contact an.huber(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:an.huber@fz-juelich.de> Best regards, Andrea Huber Brösamle -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

April 21, 2016

Postdoctoral position at NYU Abu Dhabi

by Robert Volcic

The search for this position will close in a couple of weeks. If you are planning to attend the Vision Science Society meeting it may be possible to schedule an informal meeting to discuss the position in more detail. ---------------------------------------------------------- The Psychology Department at New York University Abu Dhabi is inviting applications for a fully funded postdoctoral associate position in the area of Psychology with interests in human perceptual and motor systems. The postdoctoral associate will work under the supervision of Dr. Robert Volcic (http://volcic.github.io) and will carry out behavioral studies on human multisensory perception (mainly vision and touch) and action (reaching and grasping). The lab will be equipped with a state of the art system for 3D visualization, a head tracking system, and a motion capture system for monitoring reaching and grasping movements. Moreover, the postdoctoral associate will have access to an eye movement tracker, and to fMRI and EEG facilities. Applicants must hold (or be close to completing) a Ph.D. in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Biology, or related fields. Prior experience in vision/haptic/motor research is important as is programming efficiency. Applications will be accepted immediately and will be considered on a rolling basis. Please visit our website at http://nyuad.nyu.edu/about/careers/faculty-positions.html for instructions and information on how to apply. To be considered, all applicants must submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with full publication list, a statement of research interests, representative publications, expected date of availability, and names of two referees, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please e-mail robert.volcic(a)nyu.edu. The preferred start date is September 1st, 2016. A later start date is possible based on the needs of the applicant. The duration of employment is for two years with the possibility to renew. This position is based in Abu Dhabi (U.A.E.). The terms of employment are competitive and include housing and other benefits. About NYUAD: New York University has established itself as a Global Network University, a multi-site, organically connected network encompassing key global cities and idea capitals. The network has three foundational degree-granting campuses: New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, complimented by a network of eleven research and study-away sites across five continents. Faculty and students will circulate within this global network in pursuit of common research interests and the promotion of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary solutions for problems both local and global. Entering its sixth year, NYU Abu Dhabi has recruited a cohort of faculty who are at once distinguished in their research and teaching. Our students are drawn from around the world and surpass all traditional recruitment benchmarks, both US and global. NYU Abu Dhabi’s highly selective liberal arts enterprise is complimented by an institute for advanced research, sponsoring cutting-edge projects across the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, and Engineering. EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled

April 21, 2016

[jobs] Postdoc-level in Intelligent Adaptive Systems (including neural networks, nlp and robotics)

by Wermter, Stefan

The Knowledge Technology Research Group at the University of Hamburg invites applications for a Research Associate (Postdoc or postdoc-level/final year PhD candidate) in accordance with Section 28 of the Hamburg Higher Education Act (Hamburgisches Hochschul- gesetz, HmbHG). The position commences on 1 July 2016 or as soon as possible and is for three years plus a three year extension option. Responsibilities: Duties include teaching and research in the knowledge technology institute. Research associates can also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications as well as acquire teaching experience. These duties are intended to promote academic achieve- ment. Therefore, at least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the associate's own academic work. Specific Duties: The successful candidate will manage the international Master Pro- gramme in the field of MSc Intelligent Adaptive Systems as well as contribute to its teaching (4hrs/teaching week). Furthermore, the candidate is expected to conduct research in the area of Knowledge Technology and Intelligent Systems. This post is open to Postdocs or postdoc-level PhD candidates. PhD candidates have the opportunity to advance their academic education through the completion of a doctoral dissertation. Requirements: Academic degree preferably in computer science qualifying the post holder to carry out the above-mentioned responsibilities. In particu- lar, an MSc or PhD in Artificial Intelligence or Computer Science is essential. Your demonstrated research interests should be in the areas of Knowledge Technology and Intelligent Systems (e.g. Neural Networks, Cognitive Robotics, Natural Language Processing, Vision, or Knowledge Representation ). You should have published papers in this intelligent systems field. We are also looking for very good com- munication skills and teamwork; a very good command of both German and English is a requirement. Experience with teaching or organisation of MSc programmes is considered an advantage. The job is remunerated at the salary level TV-L 13. The position is full-time and comprises 39 hours per week. The fixed-term nature of this contract is based upon Section 2 of the Academic Fixed-Term Labor Contract Act (Wissenschaftszeitver- tragsgesetz, WissZeitVG). The initial fixed term is three years. The contract provides for a maximum extension of another three years de- pending on the associate's achievements during the first stage. The University aims to increase the number of women in research and teaching and explicitly encourages women to apply. Equally qualified female applicants will receive preference in accordance with the Hamburg Equality Act (Hamburgisches Gleichstellungsgesetz, HmbGleiG). Severely disabled applicants will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants. In case of questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Stefan Wermter, Head of Knowledge Technology Institute or consult our website at https://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/wtm/. Applications should include an application letter, full curriculum vitae, pdf of best international publications, copies of degree certificates and transcripts. The application deadline is 6 May 2016. Please email applications in a single pdf file to: Ms Katja Koesters, katja.koesters(a)informatik.uni-hamburg.de *********************************************** Professor Dr. Stefan Wermter Chair of Knowledge Technology Institute Department of Computer Science, WTM, Building F University of Hamburg Vogt Koelln Str. 30 22527 Hamburg, Germany Email: wermter AT informatik.uni-hamburg.de http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/~wermter/ http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/WTM/ ***********************************************

April 20, 2016

Open PhD position in Juelich, Germany: “From spike trains to whole-brain dynamics – Bottom-up and top-down processing during active vision”

by Martina Reske

Dear colleagues We have an open PhD student position in our collaborative project entitled “From spike trains to whole-brain dynamics – Bottom-up and top-down processing during active vision” to fill. This project addresses the question how visual input is processed in extremely short time cycles of fixations and saccades through interaction of various cortical areas. MEG recordings from human subjects performing free viewing tasks will allow for the simultaneous observation of neuronal activities from different cortical areas during active vision. Analysis of subjects’ performance and brain activity on these visual tasks enables us to study the information flow through various cortical areas, and to identify top-down components interacting with bottom-up processes. What we expect from you: · We seek for a highly motivated candidate with curiosity and persistence · A preferable candidate will have background and strong Master degree in physics, neuroscience, electrophysiology, biology, computer science or a closely related field of natural science, preferably in the field of MEG/EEG biophysics, data acquisition and analysis, biostatistics, MEG/EEG biophysics or signal processing · Obligatory: excellent educational records in the related field, good programming and data processing skills, time series analysis and M/EEG source estimation · Substantial expertise in scientific programming (preferable languages: Python, C, C++ ) and substantial knowledge of Linux and Windows · Strong motivation to carry out neuroimaging studies utilizing MEG and to perform source and connectivity analysis · Beneficial: basic knowledge of neuroscience concepts · Ability and willingness to work independently and proactively · Confident appearance and ability to work cooperatively in an interdisciplinary environment · Good interpersonal and communication skills, structured and systematic working style · Fluent in English (spoken and written); beneficial: knowledge of German The candidate will primarily be based at the Jülich Research Center. What we offer: We offer a position in a creative and international team, themes ranging from computational neuroscience, simulation technology and multimodal imaging, see www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> and <http://www.fz-juelich.de/inm/inm-4/EN/Forschung/MEG-Physik/_node.html> http://www.fz-juelich.de/inm/inm-4/EN/Forschung/MEG-Physik/_node.html. The Jülich Research Center is one of the largest research centers in Germany, with excellent scientific equipment, located on a green campus, and near the cultural centers Köln, Düsseldorf, and Aachen. The PhD position is available for 3 years. Applications, including a letter clearly motivating your application, CV, publication list, copies of university certificates, and one reference letter should be sent as a single PDF email attachment (max. 10MB) mentioning the internal reference code CSC-GID latest until May 31st , 2016, to should be sent to: Dr. Juergen Dammers (d.dammers(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:d.dammers@fz-juelich.de>). Project leaders will be: Prof. Dr. Sonja Grün (INM-6/IAS-6), Dr. Junji Ito (INM-6/IAS-6), Dr. Jürgen Dammers (INM-4) Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6, INM-4), Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6), Jülich Research Center and JARA52425 Jülich, Germany, www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> -- Dr. Martina Reske Scientific Coordinator Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-6) Computational and Systems Neuroscience & Institute for Advanced Simulation (IAS-6) Theoretical Neuroscience Jülich Research Centre and JARA Jülich, Germany Work +49.2461.611916 Work Cell +49.151.26156918 Fax +49.2461.619460 www.csn.fz-juelich.de<http://www.csn.fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

April 20, 2016

Fully funded PhD positions: Robotics, Brain and Cognitive Sciences

by Giulio Sandini

We are seeking candidates for eight fully funded PhD positions at the Italian Institute of Technology's Robotics Brain and Cognitive Sciences Department (RBCS - www.iit.it/rbcs<http://www.iit.it/rbcs> ) directed by Giulio Sandini. The fellowships give access to the PhD course "Bioengineering and Robotics" offered by the University of Genova and specifically to the "Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies" Curriculum. Deadline for Applications is June 10, 2016 at noon, Italian Time. The objective of the PhD program is to form scientists and research technologists capable of working in multidisciplinary teams on projects where human factors play a crucial role in technological development and design. Robotics and neuroscience researchers in RBCS share, as a fundamental scientific objective, the study of physical and social interaction in humans and machines (www.iit.it/rbcs<http://www.iit.it/rbcs> ). More specifically the themes supported by PhD fellowships<https://www.iit.it/110-phd-program-in-biorob-cognitive-robotics-2016> in this Curriculum are part of RBCS studies on human sensorimotor, cognitive and social interaction abilities, their implementation in the humanoid robot iCub, and on the design and assessment of assistive technologies and robotic rehabilitation devices for persons with disabilities. Among the topics offered one is left open to applicant's bright ideas (see the BYO theme in the list). RBCS research facilities<http://www.iit.it/rbcs> supports our student's research activities including the realization of ad-hoc experimental set-ups and mechatronic devices. The experimental facilities include, besides the humanoid platform iCub, a fully equipped motion capture room with simultaneous electromyography recording and force-platforms, a Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Lab, an Electrophysiology Lab for EEG recording, haptic devices for ergonomic measures of individual and dyadic interaction, robot rehabilitation devices for the upper limbs including the wrist; The ideal candidates are students with a higher level university degree willing to invest extra time and effort in blending into a multidisciplinary team composed of neuroscientists, engineers, psychologists, physicists working together to investigate brain functions and realize intelligent machines, rehabilitation protocols and advanced prosthesis. The list of the themes offered by the curriculum Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies can be downloaded here: https://www.iit.it/110-phd-program-in-biorob-cognitive-robotics-2016 [PDF] Applicants are strongly encouraged to get in touch with the tutors of the specific themes before completing the submission or with Giulio Sandini. International applications are encouraged and will receive logistic support with visa issues, relocation, etc. =========================================================================== How to apply Application deadline: 10 June 2016, Noon, Italian time =========================================================================== Please note that the positions are available through the PhD course of Bioengineering and Robotics, curriculum on Cognitive Robotics, Interaction and Rehabilitation Technologies, offered jointly by IIT and the University of Genoa. The official calls are available here: https://www.iit.it/phd-school under the section "Research themes for the call for application to PhD Courses established in agreement with the Università degli Studi di Genova, XXXII cycle". Please have a look at the "tips and tricks" section of this page which contains detailed instructions on how to apply and a list of documents to be presented. The link to the on-line application page is: http://www.studenti.unige.it/postlaurea/dottorati/XXXII/ In case of problems or questions related to the application procedure, please contact: anastasia.bruzzone(a)iit.it<mailto:anastasia.bruzzone@iit.it> =========================================================================== LIST OF THEMES OFFERED (tutors within brackets) Detailed descriptions are here: https://www.iit.it/110-phd-program-in-biorob-cognitive-robotics-2016 [PDF] =========================================================================== 1. INTERACTION AND GRASP FORCE IN HANDWRITING AND DEXTEROUS ACTION (Gabriel Baud-Bovy) 2. UNTANGLING FORCES PERCEPTUALLY IN HUMAN-HUMAN PHYSICAL INTERACTION (Gabriel Baud-Bovy) 3. VISUO-HAPTIC EXPLORATION STRATEGIES FOR OBJECT RECOGNITION (Alessandra Sciutti, Francesco Rea, Giulio Sandini) 4. MAKE HUMANOIDS UNDERSTAND HUMAN ACTIONS (Alessandra Sciutti, Francesco Rea, Giulio Sandini) 5. MULTISENSORY HUMAN-ROBOT INTERACTION (Alessandra Sciutti, Francesco Rea, Giulio Sandini) 6. ROBOT TECHNOLOGIES FOR EVALUATION OF SENSORIMOTOR IMPAIRMENT AND NEUROMOTOR REHABILITATION (Jacopo Zenzeri, Prof. Pietro Morasso) 7. MOTOR SKILL LEARNING IN DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENTS (Jacopo Zenzeri, Prof. Pietro Morasso) 8. FROM SCIENCE TO TECHNOLOGY FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN (Monica Gori) 9. CORTICAL MECHANISMS OF MULTISENSORY INTEGRATION IN CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH AND WITHOUT VISUAL DISABILITY (Monica Gori, Giulio Sandini) 10. SPATIAL AWARENESS THROUGH EGOCENTRIC ON-BODY TACTILE STIMULATION (Luca Brayda, Fabrizio Leo) 11. IMPROVING ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY SKILLS IN VISUALLY IMPAIRED PERSONS BY MEANS OF PROGRAMMABLE TACTILE DISPLAYS (Luca Brayda, Fabrizio Leo) 12. BYO: BRING YOUR OWN (PROJECT) (Giulio Sandini)

April 20, 2016

summer school on 3D displays and the Human Visual System

by Jenny Read

Hello everyone, The European Training Network on Full Parallax Imaging is organising a summer Training School on 3D displays and the Human Visual System, June 27 - July 1 in Newcastle, UK. Aimed at post-graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, especially those from engineering / computing backgrounds who are working on visual displays and interested in learning more about human visual perception in order to create the best experience for viewers. Registration is £250 for 5 days. Please circulate to any students / lab members who might be interested. More information and registration here: http://www.full-parallax-imaging.eu/TS1/ Thanks, Jenny -- Jenny C. A. Read Professor of Vision Science Mobile 0756 151 6988 Institute of Neuroscience Office +44 191 208 7559 Newcastle University, Website jennyreadresearch.com NE2 4HH, United Kingdom Twitter @jcaread _______________________________________________ visionlist mailing list visionlist(a)visionscience.com http://visionscience.com/mailman/listinfo/visionlist

April 20, 2016

Program Director Positions at NSF

by Tuller, Betty K.

Two Program Officer positions are being advertised at the National Science Foundation: Cognitive Neuroscience Program Director: BCS is seeking a Program Director for the Cognitive Neuroscience program. The Cognitive Neuroscience Program aims to spur the development of highly novel theories, techniques and models directed toward enabling basic scientific understanding of a broad range of issues involving brain, cognition, and behavior. Research will provide insights into healthy functions of brain, cognition, and behavior. Additionally, the program highly values the exploration of new methodologies, utilization of the latest analytic approaches, and the convergence of cutting edge techniques for addressing basic questions about human cognition. For additional information, see:https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/435126100?org=BCS Science of Learning Program Director: The Division of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences (BCS) at NSF is seeking a Program Director in the Science of Learning, who could also contribute to the management of the Development and Learning Sciences Program. Over the years, the Division has successfully supported research on learning across many scales of analysis, drawing on perspectives from many fields including cognitive and behavioral sciences, social science, engineering, biology, neuroscience, mathematics and physical sciences, computer science, machines learning and artificial intelligence. Attention is now turned to planning the next phase of Science of Learning investments, vis-à-vis the Developmental and Learning Sciences program, to continue the advancement of fundamental knowledge about learning. For additional information, see: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/435131500?org=BCS Betty Tuller, Ph.D. Director, Program in Perception, Action, and Cognition National Science Foundation 4201 Wilson Blvd Arlington, VA 22230 Tel: 703.292.7238 Fax: 703.292.9068 1) A new Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide is now available at http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf16001 2) The PAC program has additional requirements for submission: Please go to the website at http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=5686 3) Other items of potential interest to the PAC community are listed on the PAC website. NOTE: New solicitation for Integrative Strategies for Understanding Neural and Cognitive Systems: http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf16508<http://www.nsf.gov/publications/pub_summ.jsp?ods_key=nsf16508>. Interested in serving as a Program Officer at NSF? Visit: http://www.nsf.gov/about/career_opps/rotators/microsite/<http://www.nsf.gov/about/career_opps/rotators/microsite/>

April 19, 2016

Fully funded PhD position in Computational models of cortical sensory processing at IIT (Italy)

by Stefano Panzeri

We are seeking candidates for a PhD position at the Italian Institute of Technology’s Neural Coding Laboratory ( https://www.iit.it/lines/neural-computation ) directed by Stefano Panzeri and located in Rovereto (Trento), Italy. IIT collaborates with Università degli studi di Trento and finances these positions at the PhD course in Cognitive and Brain Sciences. *Interested candidates are invited to informally approach as soon as possible Prof. Stefano Panzeri (*stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it*) by emailing their CV and briefly explaining their interest in this position. In order to formally apply to the PhD Position, candidates will then need to refer to the call published by Università degli Studi di Trento and available at the following link*: http://web.unitn.it/en/drcimec/10140/admission-doctoral-school-cognitive-an… *Deadline for formal application is 10 may 2016* Topic description: This project will develop neural network models to investigate the mechanisms by which neural circuits encode and transmit information about the sensory environment. In particular, the successful candidate will model the role of specific classes of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in shaping cortical information processing. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to interact with the collaborating IIT laboratory of Dr Tommaso Fellin, that performs neurophysiological and optogenetic experiments to test the model predictions. The applicant should have a strong background in numerate sciences, and have a propensity for interdisciplinary research. No extensive previous experience in neuroscience is needed. However, a keen interest in understanding the brain is essential.

April 19, 2016

fully funded PhD position in Information theoretic studies of neural population coding at IIT (Italy)

by Stefano Panzeri

We are seeking candidates for a PhD position at the Italian Institute of Technology’s Neural Coding Laboratory ( https://www.iit.it/lines/neural-computation ) directed by Stefano Panzeri and located in Rovereto (Trento), Italy. IIT collaborates with Università degli studi di Trento and finances these positions at the PhD course in Cognitive and Brain Sciences. Interested candidates are invited to informally approach *as soon as possible* Prof. Stefano Panzeri (stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it) by emailing their CV and briefly explaining their interest in this position. In order to formally apply to the PhD Position, candidates will then need to refer to the call published by Università degli Studi di Trento and available at the following link: http://web.unitn.it/en/drcimec/10140/admission-doctoral-school-cognitive-an… *Deadline for formal application is 10 may 2016* Topic description: Understanding how populations of neurons encode and transmit information is a prerequisite for understanding brain functions such as perception. Progresses in neural recordings technology enable scientists to monitor the activity of larger and larger number of neurons, but it is still unclear how to analyze these data to understand how groups of neurons work together. The successful candidate will develop and use tools for the analysis of large-scale simultaneous recordings of the spiking activity of cells in the cortex to understand how populations of neurons carry information. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to both develop new advanced methods and to analyze experimental data in collaboration with many experimental neuroscience laboratories. The applicant should have a strong background in numerate sciences, and have a strong propensity for interdisciplinary research. No extensive previous experience in neuroscience is needed. However, a keen interest in understanding the brain is essential.

April 19, 2016

[jobs] Post-doc in Developmental Robotics, closing date 28th April

by Patricia Shaw

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Fixed Term until 31 March 2018) Institute of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science, Aberystwyth University, Wales, UK Grade 7 - £32,600 - £37,768 Closing Date: Midnight 28 April 2016 Applicants are invited to join the Robotics Laboratory for a project (entitled “Developmental Algorithms for Robotics”). The project is focusing on developmental robotic learning based on an iCub humanoid robot. This is a three year EPSRC funded project running at Aberystwyth University started March 2015, with the support of an International Scientific Advisory Board consisting of leading developmental psychologists. We wish to appoint a Post-Doctoral Research Associate who will develop models based on the psychological literature, and conduct experiments on our iCub humanoid robot. The successful candidate will have appropriate modelling skills and experience, and proven abilities in this area. Other tasks include writing scientific documents and papers, documenting experiments and writing reports, supervising a PhD student and collaborating with other researchers. Regular European travel will be involved. The project ends March 2018, with the fixed-term contract running to this date. For informal enquiries contact Patricia Shaw: phs(a)aber.ac.uk +44 (0)1970 622432. For the full job description, please visit: https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__jobs.aber.ac.uk_en_vac…

April 19, 2016