- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

MSc program in Neural Systems and Computation - University of Zurich and ETH Zurich
by Michael Pfeiffer Aug. 22, 2014

Aug. 22, 2014

We are inviting applications for the MSc program in Neural Systems and Computation, an interdisciplinary program offered as a Joint Master Program by the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Switzerland. The program offers a theoretical and laboratory training in neural computation and systems neuroscience. It offers hands-on knowledge of data gathering, analysis and scientific presentation. Students join an international and interdisciplinary research community with expertise in neuroinformatics, advanced experimental techniques and neuromorphic engineering. Further information can be found on our homepage http://www.nsc.uzh.ch. We offer a specialized full-time Masters program open to students with a Bachelor’s degree in the following disciplines: neurosciences, information technology, electrical engineering, biology, physics, computer sciences, chemistry, mathematics, and mechanical/chemical/control engineering. The core courses (all offered in English) provide a common foundation for students with different educational backgrounds, and cover the following: 1. Systems Neurosciences 2. Neural Computation and Theoretical Neuroscience 3. Neurotechnologies and Neuromorphic Engineering The application deadline for students starting in Spring Semester 2015 is *September 15th 2014*. Details about the application process and required documents can be found here: http://www.nsc.uzh.ch/?page_id=10 The program is affiliated with the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Faculty (MNF) at the University of Zurich (UZH) and the Information Technology and Electrical Engineering Department (D-ITET) of the ETH Zurich. All applications are handled by the University of Zurich. Application documents should be sent to nsc(a)ini.uzh.ch. Michael Pfeiffer -- ========================================= Dr. Michael Pfeiffer Postdoc, Director of Studies NSC Institute of Neuroinformatics University of Zurich and ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland Tel. +41 44 635 30 45 Fax +41 44 635 30 53 pfeiffer (at) ini.phys.ethz.ch http://www.ini.uzh.ch/~pfeiffer/ =========================================

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PhD position available at VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam
by Andre Marquand Aug. 21, 2014

Aug. 21, 2014

Please see below for a PhD Vacancy at the VU University Medical Centre in Amsterdam for employing pattern recognition methods for neuroimaging data analysis. ----------------------------------------------------------- The project The focus of the proposed PhD project is two-fold; First, the PhD student will will employ advanced computational and statistical methods to evaluate the prognostic value of neuroimaging modalities, biomarker, genetic, environmental and clinical characteristics and their combination to classify the course of depression and anxiety. A second part of the project focuses on employing these methods to disentangle phenotypic heterogeneity of depression by identifying different subtypes based on a rich set of neuroimaging and clinical data and biological protein information, and by exploring the genetic basis of different subtypes and their association with course of depression and treatment response. For these purposes, you will work with data from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (www.nesda.nl) in which an extensive battery of detailed longitudinal clinical, biomarker, neuroimaging and genetic data have been collected in a large cohort. You will also work with similar data from other international cohorts, and with data from the MOTAR study (www.motar.nl) in which the effects of antidepressant and running treatments are examined. This project will integrate across these data-sources using a variety of methods, including the application of supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques. You will be involved in the processing of neuroimaging data (structural MRI, functional MRI), associating these data with biomarker, clinical and genetics information and using machine learning methods to classify the patients. You will be working in a multidisciplinary team with young and enthusiastic researchers, who have expertise in psychiatry, genetics, neuroimaging, statistics/engineering and epidemiology. Your challenge As a PhD Student your main tasks and responsibilites are: • Help examine predictors of the naturalistic course and treatment response in depression and anxiety; • Identifying subtypes of depression and anxiety based on multimodal data sources; • Apply unsupervised and supervised machine learning methods, such as Support Vector Machine and/or probabilistic methods, to genetic, multi-modal neuroimaging, clinical and environmental data from the NESDA study, the MOTAR study and other international cohorts; • Write various scientific papers on the above topics, and complete your research with a PhD thesis. Your profile We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher with a strong interest in psychopathology who has the following background and experience: • A strong numerate background (i.e. a Master's degree in computer science, mathematics, engineering, medical image analysis or related discipline), preferably with emphasis on machine learning, pattern classification, and/or multivariate image analysis; • Experience with neuroimage analysis or with (bio) statistics is desirable; • You have excellent statistical and strong computer programming skills (good command of LINUX, scripting, and Matlab); • You have excellent communications skills in English, both written and verbal; • Having experience in writing (international) publication(s) is a plus. Benefits Salary Scale: OIO (EUR 2.200 in the first year that increases to EUR 2.818 gross per month in the fourth year, based on 36 hours per week). We also offer a set 8.3% end-of-year bonus and 8% holiday pay. For more information about our fringe benefits, please visit http://www.werkenbijvumc.nl/vumc/arbeidsvoorwaarden/ (Dutch version). The PhD position is for four years, you will start with a contract for 12 months. Additional information The Department of Psychiatry of the VU University Medical Center (VUMC) and GGZ inGeest collaborately conduct research, education and academic patient care. The main focus is on depression and anxiety disorders, two common psychiatric disorders with high public health impact. Psychiatric research is embedded in two VU research institutes: EMGO+ and Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam. In this research area more than 150 persons from different disciplines (e.g. psychiatry, psychology, health science) collaborate. Interested? For more information you can contact dr. Lianne Schmaal, via telephone number: +31(0)20 – 788 4592. For more information about the application procedure you can contact mr. Wessel Haytink, recruiter, via telephone number: +31(0)6 – 1066 7718. Please submit your candidacy by latest September 7, 2014 with reference number D2.2014.00077WH via the following link: http://bit.ly/PhDMachineLearning

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Brain Modeling and Neural Engineering
by Mark Kramer Aug. 20, 2014

Aug. 20, 2014

A multi-year postdoctoral researcher position in computational neuroscience is available immediately through a collaboration of Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston University. The fellow will be tasked to build neural models capable of simulating and predicting human neural dynamics within and among a network of cortical and subcortical areas. These models will inform the design of adaptive “closed loop” stimulation to treat psychiatric disorders. The researcher will work with an interdisciplinary team of clinical and computational researchers at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Boston University to focus on three central aims: 1) Develop a mean-field computational model of human cortical and subcortical regions, 2) Simulate the impact of electrical stimulation on the model dynamics, 3) Implement data assimilation procedures to link in vivo brain voltage recordings from individual patients to the computational model variables and parameters. Experience in statistics (e.g., parameter estimation, Kalman filtering, particle filtering) and computer programming in MATLAB and C-like languages are required. Knowledge of neuroscience and models of neural population activity are preferred, and we will preferentially interview candidates with prior work in neural simulation or experimental neuroscience. This opportunity is available immediately, and candidates currently available to begin work will be preferred. However, we are happy to negotiate start terms for outstanding candidates. To apply, or for more information about the position, please send an email to Drs. Mark Kramer (mak(a)bu.edu) and Alik Widge (awidge(a)partners.org) Please include an updated CV, names and contact information of three references, and a brief statement of your interest in the position and relevant qualifications. Applications from women and representatives of minority groups are encouraged. See also: http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science/jobs/446865-postdoctoral-research-… -------- Mark A. Kramer Prof. Math & Stats, BU http://math.bu.edu/people/mak/

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[COSYNE2015] Call for workshop proposals
by Tomas Hromadka Aug. 20, 2014

Aug. 20, 2014

================================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience (Cosyne) 2015 MAIN MEETING WORKSHOPS Mar 5 - Mar 8, 2015 Mar 9 - Mar 10, 2015 Salt Lake City, Utah Snowbird Ski Resort, Utah http://www.cosyne.org ================================================================== ------------------------------------------------------------------ CALL FOR WORKSHOP PROPOSALS ------------------------------------------------------------------ PROPOSAL DEADLINE: November 21, 2014. PRE-PROPOSALS: In an effort to coordinate submissions, the organizers are encouraged to submit a pre-proposal by October 31, 2014. Pre-proposals will be shared among submitters. Pre-proposals are requested but not required. The organizers may submit the full proposal by its deadline. A series of workshops will be held after the main Cosyne meeting (http://www.cosyne.org) The goal is to provide an informal forum for the discussion of important research questions and challenges. Controversial issues, open problems, comparisons of competing approaches, and alternative viewpoints are encouraged. The overarching goal of all workshops should be the integration of empirical and theoretical approaches, in an environment that fosters collegial discussion and debate. Preference will be given to proposals that differ substantially in content, scope, and/or approach from workshops of recent years (examples available at http://www.cosyne.org/c/index.php?title=Workshops) Relevant topics include, but are not limited to: sensory processing; motor planning and control; functional neural circuits; motivation, reward and decision making; learning and memory; adaptation and plasticity; neural coding; neural circuitry and network models; and methods in computational or systems neuroscience. Please note that in an effort to enhance the distinctions between workshops, speakers will be asked to commit to only 1-2 workshops. If need be, workshop chairs will work with overcommitted speakers prior to final workshop acceptances to reduce overlap. WORKSHOP DETAILS: - There will be 4-8 workshops/day, running in parallel. - Each workshop is expected to draw between 15 and 80 people. - The workshops will be split into morning (8:00-11:00 AM) and afternoon (4:30-7:30 PM) sessions. - Workshops will be held at Snowbird, a ski resort located 30 miles (typically less than an hour) from the Salt Lake City airport. Buses from the main conference will be provided. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS: Deadline for pre-proposals: October 31, 2014 Deadline for proposals: November 21, 2014 Format: plain text only -- please no attachments, email to: cosyne15workshops(a)googlegroups.com (Claudia Clopath, Robert Froemke) PRE-PROPOSALS should include: - Name(s) and email address(es) of the organizers (no more than 2 organizers per session, please). A primary contact should be designated. - A title. - A brief description of 1) what the workshop will address and accomplish, 2) why the topic is of interest, 3) who is the targeted group of participants. - Names of potential invitees, with indication of confirmed speakers. Preference will be given to workshops with the largest fraction of confirmed speakers. - Proposed workshop length (1 or 2 days). Most workshops will be limited to a single day. If you think your workshop needs 2 days, please explain why. - A brief resume of the workshop organizer along with a short list of workshop-relevant publications (about half a page total). PROPOSALS should include the list of confirmed speakers in addition to components required for a pre-proposal. Workshop organizer responsibilities include coordinating workshop participation and content, scheduling all speakers and submitting a final schedule for the workshop program, and moderating the discussion. Organizers can be speakers but need not speak depending on scheduling constraints. SUGGESTIONS: Experience has shown that the best discussions during a workshop are those that arise spontaneously. A good way to foster these is to have short talks and long question periods (e.g. 30+15 minutes), and have plenty of breaks. We recommend fewer than 10 talks. WORKSHOP COSTS: Detailed registration costs, etc., will be available at cosyne.org. Please note: Cosyne does NOT provide travel funding for workshop speakers. All workshop speakers are expected to pay for workshop registration fees. Participants are encouraged to register early, in order to qualify for discounted registration rates. One complementary (free) organizer registration is provided per workshop. For workshops with 2 organizers, the free registration can be given to one of the organizers or split evenly between them. COSYNE 2015 WORKSHOP CHAIRS: Claudia Clopath (Imperial College London) and Robert Froemke (New York University). QUESTIONS: email: cosyne15workshops(a)googlegroups.com

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Postdoc Position in Sleep and Cognition Lab
by Sara C. Mednick Aug. 20, 2014

Aug. 20, 2014

The Sleep and Cognition (SaC) Lab of the Department of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside has an open position for a postdoc researcher. This researcher will be investigating mechanisms of memory encoding, consolidation, and retrieval by using event-related potential (ERP/EEG) during waking and sleep. Successful candidates should have experience in memory research and EEG methodologies, as well as programming skills. Experience in sleep research is not essential. Position is available immediately. Researchers must possess a doctoral degree. The University of California offers excellent benefits. Salary is based on research experience. The initial appointment is for 1 year with a possibility of extension. Please send your CV, statement of research interests and the names of three references or make inquires to Sara C. Mednick smednick(a)ucr.edu. -- Assistant Professor University of California, Riverside Department of Psychology Sleep and Cognition (SaC) Lab www.saramednick.com www.sleepandcognitionlab.org TEDx Talk <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MklZJprP5F0> Amandla awethu!

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[meetings] Australasian Conference on Artificial Life and Computational Intelligence (ACALCI 2015)
by Stephan Chalup Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

CfP: Australasian Conference on Artificial Life and Computational Intelligence (ACALCI 2015), 5-7 February 2015, The University of Newcastle, Australia http://www.newcastle.edu.au/ACALCI2015<http://newcastle.edu.au/ACALCI2015> PAPER DEADLINE: 12 September 2014 (extended) NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTANCE: 15 October 2014 PAPER FORMAT: 6-14 pages in Springer LNAI style PUBLICATION: Springer-Verlag LNAI are indexed by Scopus, Zentralblatt MATH, IO-Port, MathSciNet, ACM Digital Library, dblp, EI Engineering Index (Compendex and Inspec databases), and the ISI Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science (CPCI-S), included in ISI Web of Science. A special issue in the journal Connection Science will invite authors of some of the best papers to submit extended versions of their articles. CONFERENCE TOPICS: ACALCI 2015 will be organised in broad technical sessions that bring together experts from many different fields related to Artificial Life and Computational Intelligence. The forum also encourages associated applied research in domains as diverse as health, the creative arts and finance (to name a few). In this context ACALCI encourages presentations, demonstrations, performances and discussions on innovative research and interdisciplinary projects. WORKSHOPS, TUTORIALS and PERFORMANCES: If you would like to organise a workshop, tutorial or performance in connection with ACALCI2015 please contact the organisers as soon as possible. CONFERENCE WEBPAGE: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/ACALCI2015<http://newcastle.edu.au/ACALCI2015> ----------------------- Stephan Chalup, PhD http://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/stephan-chalup

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Databrary.org seeks web developer for open source data sharing project
by Rick Gilmore Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

** Web Developer for Databrary.org ** About Databrary Databrary is a first-of-its-kind web-based data library where scientists who collect and analyze video can store and share their data openly with other researchers. The project is based at New York University (NYU) and Penn State. It has grant support from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The overall goal is to accelerate the pace of discovery, improve scientific transparency and accountability, and transform research practices in psychology and developmental science. We are growing a team to design and build new open source solutions for science using the latest technologies. Web Developer position description The Databrary project seeks a motivated and flexible developer to help build a unique web-based data library. You will work with users and a small group of developers to design and build the front end UI and back end tools to enable behavioral researchers to collaborate, store, explore, and access research datasets in ways not possible with any existing tool. The ideal candidate will relish the challenge of building a uniquely powerful set of research tools while working on a small team in a diverse and intellectually stimulating academic environment. Responsibilities - Implement dynamic, modular, and responsive web interfaces to organize, present, and manipulate research materials. - Design, implement, test, and validate JavaScript across browsers and platforms. - Integrate feedback from UI experts and researchers (users) to identify and prioritize new features. - Learn, understand, and reorganize research data as needed for better integration with the site. Qualifications - Background in CS or other relevant field and 3+ years programming experience. - Knowledge of AngularJS or other modern web application frameworks. - Extensive experience with jQuery, JSON, HTML5, and CSS3. - Familiarity with standard UNIX development tools such as git. - Understanding of security and ethical concerns around sensitive data. Preferred - History of contributions to open source projects. - Comfortable with discussing and addressing UX/UI design issues. - Experience using RESTful interfaces for structured data. - Sensitive to performance considerations building big data interfaces. - Basic understanding of scientific practices and research tools, such as Matlab, SPSS, or R. To apply - Send the following to jobs(a)databrary.org: - One page cover letter (PDF). - Resume (PDF). - Links to your open source contributions or other samples of your work.

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IU Cognitive Science Faculty Search
by Olaf Sporns Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

Assistant Professor - Embodied Cognitive Science Cognitive Science Program Indiana University The Cognitive Science Program at Indiana University seeks a tenure track junior level appointment in the area of embodied cognitive science. Successful applicants will take a leadership role in the ongoing development of embodied cognition as a research and teaching focus of the program. Indiana University has a strong history in this area, ranging from theoretical foundations to computational and robotics modeling, to experimental approaches in developmental psychology and neuroscience. Although the emphasis of the position is on computational and/or robotic modeling approaches to problems in embodied cognition, candidates are expected to engage with the breadth of experimental programs and philosophical discussion that make up this interdisciplinary research area. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Cognitive Science, Computer Science or a closely related field and will join the faculty of a department or school on the Bloomington campus appropriate to their specific background. Applicants are expected to have a record that demonstrates an excellent potential in the areas of research and teaching. Interested candidates should review the application requirements and submit their applications athttps://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/1006. Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to Randall Beer, Cognitive Science Search Committee, 819 Eigenmann, 1900 E. 10th St., Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47406-7512 orcogsrch(a)indiana.edu. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2014 and will continue until the position is filled. Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status. Applications from women and minority group members are especially encouraged. Information about the program and the university is available athttp://www.cogs.indiana.edu/. -- Olaf Sporns -- @spornslab Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences Programs in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405

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Tenure-track faculty position in computational neuroscience
by Adam Kohn Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

The Albert Einstein College of Medicine, one of the leading medical schools in New York City, is seeking to fill multiple tenure track faculty positions in the newly formed Department of Systems and Computational Biology. Established in April 2008, the main goal of the new department is to advance our understanding of living systems by developing theoretical, computational and experimental approaches to study complex biological systems. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine, has 750 medical students, 325 graduate students and 360 post-doctoral fellows in training and boasts a strong research faculty covering broad areas of experimental biology, offering outstanding opportunities for collaborative interactions. The 200,000 square foot Price Center for Genetic and Translational Medicine at Einstein, which opened in late 2007, locates computational, systems, and experimental scientists in physical proximity to foster interdisciplinary communication and collaboration. Highly competitive start-up packages are available. We seek outstanding scientists with broad experience and demonstrated collaborative interactions with experimental or clinical investigators. Candidates should have strength in a physical, mathematical or computational field at the Ph.D. or equivalent level. Experience applying these skills to a biological or biomedical area (demonstrated through publications or support) is also required. Areas of interest that would be advantageous, but not required, are: Systems and Computational Neuroscience — visual processing, cortical computation, or population coding; Systems Evolutionary Biology; and Mathematical and Computational Modeling of Complex Traits. Applicants should send a letter of interest, C.V., statement of research and teaching interests, and names of three referees, in electronic format to: Systems and Computational Biology Search Committee Albert Einstein College of Medicine Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus 1300 Morris Park Ave. Price Center, Rm. 153 Bronx, New York 10461 E-mail Address: sysbio(a)einstein.yu.edu Subject line should be: SCB Faculty Search Yeshiva University is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

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2nd Call for Abstracts for the 7th Int'l Workshop on Guided Self-Organisation (Freiburg, Dec 16-18, 2014)
by Joschka Boedecker Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

<apologies for possible cross-posting> Dear colleagues, This is the 2nd Call for Abstracts for the Seventh International Workshop on Guided Self-Organisation (GSO-2014) to be held from December 16-18, 2014 in Freiburg, Germany. http://ml.informatik.uni-freiburg.de/events/gso14/index The workshop will bring together researchers from a richly diverse background who share interest in understanding and designing self-organising systems. Of particular interest are well-founded, but general methods for characterizing such systems in a principled way with the view of ultimately allowing them to be guided toward prespecified goals. Information theory, nonlinear dynamics and graph theory are core to many of these methods, and quantifying complexity and its sources is a common theme. This year, the workshop is organised in collaboration with the BrainLinks-BrainTools cluster of excellence at University of Freiburg ( https://www.brainlinks-braintools.uni-freiburg.de/ ), and one focus theme will be guided self-organisation in neural systems. Submissions to the workshop are extended abstracts (one-two pages). If interested in participating, send an extended abstract (by September 7th, 2014) by email to: jboedeck at informatik dot uni-freiburg dot de The notifications are expected by September 21st, 2014. Authors of accepted submissions will present the content to the workshop (scheduled 30 minutes presentation). It is expected that post-workshop publication of selected papers will follow in a special journal issue (as has been the case for previous GSO workshops). Please consult the website above and also http://guided-self.org/ for more information. Best wishes, Joschka Boedecker Mikhail Prokopenko Martin Riedmiller

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PhD Positions Combining Robotics and Neuroscience at the Queensland University of Technology
by Michael Milford Aug. 19, 2014

Aug. 19, 2014

Several PhD positions are available to work on a challenging interdisciplinary research project spanning neuroscience, robotics and computer vision. Project summary: Current robotic and personal navigation systems leave much to be desired; GPS only works in open outdoor areas, lasers are expensive and cameras are highly sensitive to changing environmental conditions. In contrast, nature has evolved superb navigation systems. This project will solve the challenging problem of place recognition, a key component of navigation, by modelling the visual recognition skills of humans and the rodent spatial memory system. This approach combines the best understood and most capable components of place recognition in nature to create a whole more capable than its parts. The project will produce advances in robotic and personal navigation technology and lead to breakthroughs in our understanding of the brain. This project is a strongly interdisciplinary one spanning neuroscience, robotics and computer vision and candidates will require experience or a skill set that facilitates this interdisciplinary approach - such as a strong background in computer science with an interest in neuroscience, or a neuroscientist / biologist with strong math and coding skills. PhD candidates will have the very challenging but rewarding task of achieving research breakthroughs that impact multiple disciplines simultaneously, as well as producing innovative technologies based on these breakthroughs. Project Collaborators and Support The project will involve collaboration with leading neuroscientists, roboticists, biologists and computer vision researchers at top international universities including Harvard University and Boston University, as well as local collaborators including The University of Queensland. PhD candidates will pursue an independent interdisciplinary research agenda but will have access to researchers from several major robotics and computer vision initiatives based at QUT, including the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Robotic Vision. How to Apply To apply please go to: https://wiki.qut.edu.au/display/cyphy/Applications+Milford. Scholarships and top-ups are available for high quality applicants. Or contact: Dr Michael Milford: https://wiki.qut.edu.au/display/cyphy/Michael+Milford School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Queensland University of Technology Phone: +61 7 3138 9969 | E-mail: michael DOT milford(a)qut.edu.au Michael Milford |ARC Future Fellow | Microsoft Faculty Fellow | Senior Lecturer | Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Science and Engineering Faculty | Queensland University of Technology S Block, Room S1110, Gardens Point Campus ph 3138 9969 | email michael.milford(a)qut.edu.au<mailto:c.degroot@qut.edu.au> CRICOS No 00213J * Recent Publications * * Visual Place Recognition Under Extreme Perceptual Change - "SeqSLAM: Visual route-based navigation for sunny summer days and stormy winter nights", International Conference on Robotics and Automation, link http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=6224623 * Navigating without GPS, using only a web camera - "Mapping a Suburb with a Single Camera using a Biologically Inspired SLAM System", IEEE Transactions on Robotics, link http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=4627450 * Continual mapping and navigation over a 2 week office delivery robot experiment - "Persistent Navigation and Mapping using a Biologically Inspired SLAM System", International Journal of Robotics Research, http://ijr.sagepub.com/content/29/9/1131.abstract * Combining robotics, neuroscience and animal navigation to manage uncertainty when navigating - "Solving Navigational Uncertainty Using Grid Cells on Robots", PLoS Computational Biology, http://www.ploscompbiol.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1000995 More information available at: https://wiki.qut.edu.au/display/cyphy/Michael+Milford Google Scholar Profile: http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=TDSmCKgAAAAJ&hl=en

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Neurocomputing special issue CFP
by Zhijun Yang Aug. 16, 2014

Aug. 16, 2014

Dear Colleagues, Sorry for any possible cross communications. May we draw your attention to a Neurocomputing special issue CFP: Advances on Biological Rhythmic Pattern Generation: Experiments, Algorithms and Application. The full announcement can be found as an internet link below. http://www.journals.elsevier.com/neurocomputing/call-for-papers/special-iss… Instructions for submission: • The submission website for Neurocomputing is located at: http://ees.elsevier.com/neucom/default.asp • To ensure that all relevant manuscripts are correctly identified for inclusion into this special issue, it is important that authors select SI: Creating Biology Rhythm when reaching the “Article Type” step in the submission process. We look forward to receiving your contributions to what promises to be an exciting special issue. Best regards, Zhijun Yang -- Zhijun Yang, BEng, MSc, PhD, Lecturer in Design Engineering Department of Design Engineering and Mathematics School of Science and Technology Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK Voice: +44 (0)7882681333

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Bernstein Conference 2014 - online registration ends August 24
by Kerstin Mosch Aug. 14, 2014

Aug. 14, 2014

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Graduate studies in the neuroscience of decision-making
by Paul Cisek Aug. 13, 2014

Aug. 13, 2014

Graduate studies in the neuroscience of decision-making Department of neuroscience, laboratory of Paul Cisek Applications are invited for a master's or doctoral studentship in cognitive neuroscience. The successful applicant will join a research group studying the neural mechanisms of decision-making in humans and non-human primates using a combination of computational and experimental techniques. Research in our laboratory involves computational models of the nervous system as well as behavioral experiments, transcranial magnetic stimulation, functional magnetic resonance imaging, and multi-electrode recording from the cerebral cortex and subcortical regions. Depending on the applicant's qualifications and interests, they will help to design and conduct behavioral and neurophysiological experiments, analyze data, develop theoretical models of neural systems, prepare manuscripts for publication, and participate in international conferences. See www.cisek.org/pavel for information on current projects and a list of sample publications. While students with a strong background in mathematics, computer science, or biological sciences are particularly encouraged to apply, all motivated students with an interest in understanding the brain will be considered. The successful applicant will receive a competitive salary in accordance with university guidelines. For further information, please contact Dr. Paul Cisek (paul.cisek(a)umontreal.ca) Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, curriculum vita, copies of academic transcripts, and the names and contact information of 2 references, to: Dr. Paul Cisek Department of neuroscience University of Montréal C.P. 6128 Succursale Centre-ville Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, CANADA Phone: 514-343-6111 x4355 Web: www.cisek.org/pavel email: paul.cisek(a)umontreal.ca Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but preference will be given to applications received before August 31, 2014. Interviews may be possible at the Bernstein conference (Göttingen, Sept 2-5, 2014, http://www.bernstein-conference.de/) the INT neuroscience conference (Marseille, Oct 2-3, 2014, http://www.int.univ-amu.fr/2nd-colloque-de-l-INT) or the Society for Neuroscience meeting (Washington DC, November 15-19, 2014, http://www.sfn.org/annual-meeting/neuroscience-2014) Montréal is consistently rated as one of the world's most livable cities and has been called "Canada's Cultural Capital". It has the highest number of university students per capita in the continent, with more than 17,000 foreign students from 150 countries and among the lowest tuition fees in North America. Montréal's vibrant neuroscience community spans four major universities (University of Montréal, McGill University, Concordia University, and the University of Québec at Montréal) and the Montréal Neurological Institute. The University of Montréal is the largest university in Québec and the second largest in Canada, with over 55,000 students and 10,000 employees. Deeply rooted in Montréal and dedicated to its international mission, the Université de Montréal is one of the top universities in the French-speaking world. The University of Montréal is a French-speaking institution, and most coursework is in French. However, the master's or PhD thesis can be written in French or English. ----------------------------------------------- Paul Cisek, Ph.D. Groupe de recherche sur le système nerveux central Département de neuroscience, local 4117 Université de Montréal C.P. 6128 Succursale Centre-ville Montréal QC H3C 3J7 Canada Tél: 514-343-6111 x4355 Fax: 514-343-2111 e-mail: paul.cisek(a)umontreal.ca -----------------------------------------------

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3 open PhD psoitions at the Neuroinformatics Lab at the Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Osnabrück, Germany
by Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa Aug. 13, 2014

Aug. 13, 2014

The Neuroinformatics Research Group (Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa) of the Institute of Cognitive Science invites applications for 3 Research Assistants (PhD student level), (Salary level E 13 TV-L 50%) to be filled as soon as possible for a period of three years. The position allows for further scientific qualification. We invite applicants that are interested in research in Neuroinformatics, with an emphasis on dynamical systems, machine learning, virtual reality, computational linguistics and electrophysiology. Candidates will participate in a highly international PhD program on cognitive science (with >40 currently enrolled students) and interdisciplinary research projects that can involve cooperation with other disciplines of our institute. Candidates should be highly motivated to understand the structure of neuronal coding and neuronal representations. To study this, we involve different research strategies that range from the development of highly sophisticated data analysis strategies, to modelling of neuronal processes on the level of recurrent networks. The qualification profile of the candidates can range from a purely mathematical neuroscientist, a dynamical systems researcher to interdisciplinary candidates that share interest in performing experiments with the virtual reality combined with EEG and sophisticated machine learning-based analysis of recorded activity (at http://ikw.uni-osnabrueck.de/en/ni/publications you find an overview of recent research topics). Description of Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be involved in several research projects that range from BSc to MSc projects. The position also involves teaching Cognitive Science courses at BSc and MSc level (2 hours/week). Required Qualifications: Candidates are expected to have an excellent academic degree (Master/diploma). Applicants should have an excellent knowledge in the field of machine learning, i.e. generalized linear and state space models, kernel methods, reservoir computing and deep learning. Experience or a strong interest in the fields of complex systems, computational neurosciences, dynamical systems theory and the concepts to study these, i.e. bifurcation and stability analysis, and delay- coupled differential equations, measurements of complexity, are encouraged. Experience or a strong interest in experimental methods such as EEG, and virtual reality are highly welcome. In addition, a strong interest or experience in the estimation of causal interactions from time series is welcome. As a certified family-friendly institution, Osnabrück University is committed to furthering the compatibility between work/studies and family life. As an employer, Osnabrück University is particularly concerned with creating equal opportunities for women and men. Women with relevant qualifications are therefore strongly encouraged to apply for the position. Preference will be given to women with equal qualifications. Furthermore, qualified applicants with disabilities will be favored. Applications with the usual documentation, including two letters of recommendation, should be submitted by e-mail in a single PDF file to the Director of the Institute of Cognitive Science (office(a)ikw.uni-osnabrueck.de) no later than 08.09.2014. An electronic copy should be sent to Prof. Dr. Gordon Pipa (gpipa(a)uni-osnabrueck.de) who can also be contacted for further information. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- --- Professor and Chair of the Neuroinformatics Department Dr. rer. nat. Gordon Pipa Institute of Cognitive Science, Room 31/404 University of Osnabrueck Albrechtstr. 28, 49069 Osnabrueck, Germany tel. +49 (0) 541-969-2277 fax (private). +49 (0) 5405- 500 80 98 home office. +49 (0) 5405- 500 90 95 e-mail: <mailto:gpipa@uos.de> gpipa(a)uos.de webpage: <http://www.ni.uos.de/> http://www.ni.uos.de research gate: <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gordon_Pipa/?ev=prf_act> https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gordon_Pipa/?ev=prf_act google scholar: <http://scholar.google.de/citations?user=joR6mgEAAAAJ> http://scholar.google.de/citations?user=joR6mgEAAAAJ Personal Assistent and Secretary of the Neuroinformatics lab: Anna Jungeilges Tel. +49 (0)541 969-2390 Fax +49 (0)541 969-2246 Email: <mailto:anna.jungeilges@uni-osnabrueck.de> anna.jungeilges(a)uni-osnabrueck.de visit us on <http://www.facebook.com/CognitiveScienceOsnabruck> http://www.facebook.com/CognitiveScienceOsnabruck <https://twitter.com/#!/CogSciUOS> https://twitter.com/#!/CogSciUOS

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Workshop on Stochastic Neural Computation in Paris
by Wolfgang Maass Aug. 13, 2014

Aug. 13, 2014

I am organizing a Workshop on Stochastic Neural Computation on Nov.27 and 28, 2014 in Paris, at the European Institute for Theoretical Neuroscience. You are welcome to attend, and present a poster (if it fits into the context of this workshop). This will be a very informal "working" workshop, where we want to bring together experts from neuroscience, cognitive science, theory, and neuromorphic hardware, that are working on different angles of stochastic neural computation with biological or artificial spiking neurons. The talks will focus on new results. We will also have plenty of time to discuss open problems and challenges that arise. Possibly this meeting could mark the beginning of some loose research network around this exciting research topic. You can find a preliminary program at https://flagship.kip.uni-heidelberg.de/jss/Ag?eMAt=38&showAgenda=x&eKn=SCom… Information on the venue and hotel information is available at https://flagship.kip.uni-heidelberg.de/jss/Ag?eMAt=38&SiD=x&eKn=SComNo27 The participation is free, but prior registration by October 1 is required on https://flagship.kip.uni-heidelberg.de/jss/Ag?eMAt=38&eKrn=SComNo27 Under "Registration type" on the registration page you can indicate whether you want to present a poster (please send title and abstract to me per email). There will be no registration fee. best regards Wolfgang Maass -- Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Maass Institut fuer Grundlagen der Informationsverarbeitung Technische Universitaet Graz Inffeldgasse 16b , A-8010 Graz, Austria Tel.: ++43/316/873-5822 Fax ++43/316/873-5805 http://www.igi.tugraz.at/maass/Welcome.html

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Neural plasticity for rich and uncertain robotic information streams, abstract deadline extended 12th September.
by f.vandervelde＠utwente.nl Aug. 13, 2014

Aug. 13, 2014

Dear All, We extended the abstract submission deadline for the research topic “Neural plasticity for rich and uncertain information streams”, hosted by Frontiers in Neurorobotics, due to requests. The new deadline is 12th of September. Note that the paper submission deadline remains unchanged (Jan 12, 2015). Description: Models of adaptation and neural plasticity are often demonstrated in robotic scenarios with heavily pre-processed and regulated information streams to provide learning algorithms with appropriate, well timed, and meaningful data to match the assumptions of learning rules. On the contrary, natural scenarios are often rich of raw, asynchronous, overlapping and uncertain inputs and outputs whose relationships and meaning are progressively acquired, disambiguated, and used for further learning. Therefore, recent research efforts focus on neural embodied systems that rely less on well timed and pre-processed inputs, but rather extract autonomously relationships and features in time and space. In particular, realistic and more complete models of plasticity must account for delayed rewards, noisy and ambiguous data, emerging and novel input features during online learning. Such approaches model the progressive acquisition of knowledge into neural systems through experience in environments that may be affected by ambiguities, uncertain signals, delays, or novel features. This research topic promises to unveil fundamental properties and dynamics of neural learning system that are naturally immersed in a rich information flow. We invite papers describing advances in robotic neural learning systems that model adaptation or plasticity with a rich and realistic stream of information. Abstract Submission Deadline (extended): Sep 12, 2014, Article Submission Deadline: Jan 12, 2015 Topic Editor(s): Andrea Soltoggio, Frank van der Velde Frontiers, a Swiss open-access publisher, recently partnered with Nature Publishing Group to expand its researcher-driven Open Science platform. Frontiers articles are rigorously peer-reviewed, can be disseminated freely and are widely read by your colleagues and by the broader scientific and medical research communities. The idea behind a research topic is to create an organized, comprehensive collection of several contributions, as well as a forum for discussion and debate. Contributions can be articles describing original research, methods, hypothesis & theory, opinions, etc. We have created a homepage on the Frontiers website (Frontiers in Neurorobotics) where all articles will appear after peer-review and where participants in the topic will be able to hold relevant discussions: http://www.frontiersin.org/Neurorobotics/researchtopics/Neural_plasticity_f…. Frontiers will also compile an e-book, as soon as all contributing articles are published, that can be used in classes, be sent to foundations that fund your research, to journalists and press agencies, or to any number of other organizations. As such, a manuscript accepted for publication incurs a publishing fee, which varies depending on the article type. Research Topic manuscripts receive a significant discount on publishing fees. Please take a look at this fee table: http://www.frontiersin.org/about/PublishingFees. Once published, your articles will remain free to access for all readers, and will be indexed in PubMed and other academic archives. As an author in Frontiers, you retain the copyright to your own papers and figures. Should you choose to participate, please confirm by sending me a quick email and then your abstract no later than Sep 12, 2014 using the following link:http://www.frontiersin.org/Neurorobotics/researchtopics/Neural_plastic… With best regards, Frank van der Velde and Andrea Soltoggio Guest Associate Editors, Frontiers in Neurorobotics www.frontiersin.org

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Seeking community input for Neurodata Without Borders
by Jeff Teeters Aug. 13, 2014

Aug. 13, 2014

Dear Colleague, The Neurodata Without Borders (NWB) project has just started. The project goal is to build a common data format for neurophysiology data from Allen Brain Institute, Janelia Farm and two labs from NYU and Caltech. Although focusing on a limited set of use cases, the project also aims to develop products that will serve the broader community. At this point we would like to solicit community input about ideas/approaches for designing a generalizable neurophysiology data format. If you are interested in contributing to this project, please review the project description at: https://crcns.org/NWB and fill out the questionnaire: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1CNTd4M-8kQ_WhEZc7n7WxpTa0LOupt_q3z21E1fRxj… On the basis of the questionnaire responses and ensuing communication, we will organize the first hackathon meeting of the project, to be held November 20 – 22, 2014 (just after SfN) at Janelia Farm, in Ashburn, Virginia. At this hackathon we will discuss in detail the requirements for a common format based on the project use cases and also discuss, compare and evaluate alternative techniques for implementing the common format. More information about the project is available in a recent press release: http://www.kavlifoundation.org/kavli-news/prominent-us-research-institution… Please forward this email to anyone you know with relevant expertise who may be interested in contributing to this project. Thank you, Fritz Sommer and Jeff Teeters Redwood Center for Theoretical Neuroscience UC Berkeley

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DEADLINE EXTENDED: 8th International Conference on Bio-inspired Information and Communications Technologies (BICT 2014, formerly BIONETICS)
by Jun Suzuki Aug. 12, 2014

Aug. 12, 2014

CFP: 8th International Conference on Bio-inspired Information and Communications Technologies (BICT 2014, formerly BIONETICS) http://www.bionetics.org/ Paper submission deadline extended: September 1, 2014 December 1 (Mon) - December 3, 2014 (Wed) Boston, MA, USA In-corporation with ACM BICT 2014 aims to provide a world-leading and multidisciplinary venue for researchers and practitioners in diverse disciplines that seek the understanding of key principles, processes and mechanisms in biological systems and leverage those understandings to develop novel information and communications technologies (ICT). BICT 2014 targets two thrusts: THRUST 1: Indirect/Weak Bioinspiration (ICT designed after biological principles, processes and mechanisms). Examples include evolutionary computation, artificial gene regulatory networks, neural computation, swarm intelligence, cellular automata, artificial immune systems, artificial life, artificial chemistry, reaction-diffusion computing, simulated annealing, self-organization and network science. THRUST 2: Direct/Strong Bioinspiration (ICT utilizing biological materials and systems). Examples include cellular computing, molecular computing/communication, membrane computing, DNA computing and memory, bacterial computing, Physarum computing and quantum computing. Expected, but not exclusive, topics are: * Signal/information processing and communication for bio-inspired ICT * Algorithms and their applications for bio-inspired ICT * Formal models and methods for bio-inspired ICT * Bio-inspired software and hardware systems * Modeling, simulations and empirical experiments of bio-inspired ICT * Self-* and stability properties in bio-inspired ICT * Security, robustness and resilience in bio-inspired ICT * Design, configuration and management issues in bio-inspired ICT * Software engineering and performance engineering in bio-inspired ICT * Tools, testbeds and deployment aspects in bio-inspired ICT * Applications, experiences and standardization of bio-inspired ICT * Socially-aware, game theoretic and other metaphor-assisted interdisciplinary research Application domains include, but not limited to, autonomic computing, bioinformatics, biomedical engineering, computer networks, computer vision, data mining, e-health, green computing and networking, grid/cloud computing, intelligent agents, mechanical engineering, molecular communication, nano-scale computing and networking, optimization, pervasive computing, robotics, security, social networks, software engineering and systems engineering. IMPORTANT DATES: Regular paper submission due: September 1 Short and poster/demo paper submission due: September 22 Notification for regular papers: September 22 Notification for short and poster/demo papers: October 6 Camera ready due: October 13 SPECIAL TRACKS: In addition to the regular track that covers general/mainstream topics, BICT 2014 features the following special tracks that focus on specific, emerging or underrepresented topics. * Artificial, Biological and Bio-Inspired Intelligence (ABBII) * Artificial Intelligence and Software Engineering (AISE) * Body Area Soft Computing (BASC) * Biologically-Inspired Process Calculi (BIPC) * Bio-Inspired Machine Vision (BIMV) * Bio-inspired/Biomimetic Microsystems & Microdevices (BMM) * Bio-inspired Wireless Network Security (BWNS) * Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) * Engineering Applications from Molecular and Gene Regulatory Networks (EMNET) * Molecular Communication and Networking (MCN) * Morphogenetic Collective Systems (MCS) * Modularization for Practical Software Engineering (MPSE) * Resilient Networks (RN) * Swarm and Modular Robotics (SAMR) * Smart Body Area Networks (SBAN) * Security and Privacy in Bio-inspired Networks (SPBN) PAPER SUBMISSION: Authors are invited to submit regular papers (up to 8 pages each), short papers (up to 4 pages each) or poster/demo papers (up to 2 pages each) in ACM's paper template. Up to two extra pages are allowed for each paper with extra page charges. See http://bionetics.org/2014/show/initial-submission for more details. PUBLICATION: All accepted paper will be published through ACM Digital Library and submitted for indexing by SI, EI Compendex, Scopus, ACM Library, Google Scholar and many more. Selected papers will be considered for publication in leading journals including: * ACM/Springer Mobile Networks and Applications * Elsevier Information Sciences * Elsevier Nano Communication Networks Journal * Int'l Journal of Software Engineering and Knowledge Engineering * Cloud-integrated Cyber-Physical Systems (Springer book) KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: * Andrew Adamatzky, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK * Gabriel Ciobanu, Romanian Academy, ICS, Iasi, Romania * Andrew Eckford, York University, Canada * Valeriy Perminov, BioTeckFarm, Ltd., Russia * Hiroki Sayama, SUNY Binghamton, USA * Theresa Schubert, Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Germany * Jon Timmis, University of York, UK * Honggang Wang, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, USA * Justin Werfel, Harvard University, USA GENERAL CHAIR: Jun Suzuki, University of Massachusetts, Boston, USA PC CHAIR: Tadashi Nakano, Osaka University, Japan PC VICE CHAIRS: Andrew Adamatzky, University of the West of England, UK Gabriel Ciobanu, Romanian Academy, Institute of Computer Science, Romania Douglas Dow, Wentworth Institute of Technology, USA Hiroaki Fukuda, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan Tyler Garaas, Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, USA Preetam Ghosh, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA Isao Hayashi, Kansai University, Japan Yu-Hsiang Hsu, National Taiwan University, Taiwan Saori Iwanaga, Japan Coast Guard Academy, Japan Masao Kubo, National Defense Academy, Japan Paul Leger, Universidad Católica del Norte, Chile Shih-Hsi "Alex" Liu, California State University, Fresno, USA Michael L. Mayo, US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, USA Parisa Memarmoshrefi, University of Goettingen, Germany Marjan Mernik, University of Maribor, Slovenia Alan Millard, University of York, UK Michael Moore, USA Marc Pomplun, University of Massachusetts Boston, USA Florian Raudies, Boston University, USA Hiroshi Sato, National Defense Academy, Japan Hiroki Sayama, SUNY Binghamton, USA Tomohiro Shirakawa, National Defense Academy of Japan, Japan Jon Timmis, University of York, UK Athanasios Vasilakos, University of Western Macedonia, Greece Honggang Wang, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, USA Jun Zhou, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

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Parallel computing workshop at SFN 2014 meeting
by Ted Carnevale Aug. 12, 2014

Aug. 12, 2014

What: Using the Neuroscience Gateway Portal for Parallel Simulations A Satellite Symposium at the 2014 Society for Neuroscience Meeting Where: Location to be announced in downtown Washington, DC When: 9 AM - Noon on Saturday, November 15, 2014 Speakers to include: A. Majumdar, S. Sivagnanam, and T. Carnevale Registration deadline: Friday, October 31, 2014 This workshop is for neuroscientists who need to use parallel supercomputers for large modeling projects. With support from NSF, we have been developing the Neuroscience Gateway Portal (NSG) http://www.nsgportal.org/, which * provides free CPU time on NSF-supported high performance computing resources * has a browser-based interface that simplifies the tasks of uploading models, specifying job parameters, monitoring job status, and storing and retrieving output data * already has many widely-used simulatiors optimally installed and configured, including Brian, GENESIS3, NEST, NEURON, and PyNN The workshop will combine didactic presentations by NSG's developers, discussions with experienced users, and hands on instruction in how to use the portal. Come find out how the NSG can be useful in your own research! For more information and the online registration form see http://www.neuron.yale.edu/neuron/static/courses/nsg2014/nsg2014.html --Ted

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postdoctoral position, Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson's disease, IUPUI and Purdue University
by Leonid Rubchinsky Aug. 12, 2014

Aug. 12, 2014

Postdoctoral opening in computational neuroscience The Department of Mathematical Sciences at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of mathematical and computational neuroscience. The position is with a collaborative group of scholars from the Department of Mathematical Sciences at IUPUI, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University and the Department of Neurosurgery of the Indiana University School of Medicine. The current research project is aimed at the development of adaptive deep brain stimulators for Parkinson's disease. Part of the duties may also include some teaching in the Mathematical Sciences. The position offers excellent interdisciplinary training possibilities in mathematical biology and computational neuroscience. Qualifications: Applicants are expected to have a Ph.D. in mathematics, physics, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, computer science or other related field. Applicants should have strong quantitative skills in data analysis and modeling and a strong interest in neuroscience applications. Experience in nonlinear dynamics/control theory/neurophysiology is a plus. How to apply: Send your CV with a list of publications, research statement, and arrange two-three recommendation letters to be sent to Dr. Leonid Rubchinsky via e-mail: leo(a)math.iupui.edu. Address all your inquiries to the same e-mail. Alternatively send your application by regular mail to: Dr. Leonid Rubchinsky, Department of Mathematical Sciences, IUPUI, 402 N. Blackford Street, LD 270, Indianapolis, IN 46202. Screening of applications will continue until position is filled. IUPUI is an EEO/AA Employer, M/F/D. *********************** Leonid Rubchinsky, PhD Associate Professor Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University - Purdue University, Indianapolis Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine 402 N. Blackford St Indianapolis, IN 46202 leo(a)math.iupui.edu http://www.math.iupui.edu/~leo 317-274-9745 317-274-3460 (fax) ***********************

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Job offer: PhD student position
by Seeger, Simone Aug. 12, 2014

Aug. 12, 2014

The Department of Theoretical Neuroscience (Head: Prof. Daniel Durstewitz) at the Central Institute of Mental Health (Mannheim) invites applications for a PhD student position (E 13 TV-L) (50% of the fulltime weekly hours) in the newly founded research group Data-driven network models of higher cognitive functions (Head: Dr. Joachim Hass) to be filled as soon as possible. The position is initially limited for 3 years. The research group develops biologically realistic computational neural network models of the neocortical structures such as the prefrontal cortex and the motor cortex. These models closely adhere to physiological data from both in vitro and in vivo experiments and are used to study higher cognitive functions such as time perception and working memory. The successful candidate will work in the project "The human mirror neuron system - measurement and beyond" funded by the Heidelberg Academy for Sciences and Humanities. The joint project of the Departments of Theoretical Neuroscience and Clinical Psychology of the Central Institute of Mental Health aims at a deeper understanding of the mirror neuron system in humans, which is thought to play a crucial role in social cognition by representing the emotions and intentions of others in the motor cortex. The project combines multimodal measurements (involving fMRI, EEG, transcranial magnetic stimulation and genotyping) with computational modeling. The Central Institute of Mental Health is an internationally renowned research institute for psychiatry and neuroscience as well as a clinic for psychiatry, psychotherapy and psychosomatics (part of the medical faculty of the University of Heidelberg). The research group closely interacts with neurobiologists and psychologists at the institute. The Department of Theoretical Neuroscience is focused on computational modeling and statistical data analysis of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus functions. It is one of the core research units of the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN) Heidelberg-Mannheim. Access to high-performance computing facilities is provided. Tasks: The project involves the development of a rate-based, brain-scale model as well as the further development of an existing spiking network model of the motor cortex. The resulting twostage model is then being adapted to the multimodal experimental data using stochastic optimization techniques. In particular, the effects of the transcranial magnetic stimulation and different levels of dopamine and oxytocin are to be implemented in the model and directly compared with the experimental data. Participation in the project organization and publication writing is also expected. It is also possible to participate in the analysis of the fMRI data. Requirements: The candidate should have a university degree (master or equivalent) in physics, mathematics, computer science, computational neuroscience or similar, a strong interest in neurobiological research and very good programming skills (ideally in MATLAB and C). Good communication skills in English as well as knowledge in nonlinear dynamics, numerical optimization or neural modeling are also required. Knowledge in neuroscience or experimental psychology is beneficial. Applicants should sent their application documents (cover letter including a brief description of personal qualifications and future research interests, CV and contact details of two personal references) to joachim.hass(a)zi-mannheim.de<mailto:joachim.hass@zi-mannheim.de>. Questions and informal discussions about the position are also welcome under this email address. The call is open until the position is filled. *** Simone Seeger, M.A. Administration Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Postfach 12 21 20, 68072 Mannheim J5, 68159 Mannheim Telefon: 0621/1703-1326 oder 06221/54-8310 Fax: 0621/1703-2915 E-Mail: Simone.Seeger(a)zi-mannheim.de<mailto:Simone.Seeger@zi-mannheim.de> Internet: http://www.bccn-heidelberg-mannheim.de<http://www.bccn-heidelberg-mannheim.de/> *** Simone Seeger, M.A. Administration Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Postfach 12 21 20, 68072 Mannheim J5, 68159 Mannheim Telefon: 0621/1703-1326 oder 06221/54-8310 Fax: 0621/1703-2915 E-Mail: Simone.Seeger(a)zi-mannheim.de<mailto:Simone.Seeger@zi-mannheim.de> Internet: http://www.bccn-heidelberg-mannheim.de<http://www.bccn-heidelberg-mannheim.de/>

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Call for Papers: IEEE Computational Intelligence Magazine (CIM) Special Issue: "Computational Intelligence for Changing Environments"
by Dr Amir Hussain Aug. 11, 2014

Aug. 11, 2014

Call for Papers (Please also forward to any interested colleagues - with advance apologies for any cross-postings!) IEEE Computational Intelligence Magazine (CIM) (http://cis.ieee.org/ieee-computational-intelligence-magazine.html) Special Issue on "Computational Intelligence for Changing Environments" (Submission Deadline: 15 Nov 2014) (http://www.cs.stir.ac.uk/~ahu/IEEE-CIM-CICE2015.pdf) Guest Editors: Amir Hussain, Dacheng Tao, Jonathan Wu and Dongbin Zhao Aims and Scope: Over the past decade or so, computational intelligence techniques have been highly successful for solving big data challenges in changing environments. In particular, there has been growing interest in so called biologically inspired learning (BIL), which refers to a wide range of learning techniques, motivated by biology, that try to mimic specific biological functions or behaviors. Examples include the hierarchy of the brain neocortex and neural circuits, which have resulted in biologically-inspired features for encoding, deep neural networks for classification, and spiking neural networks for general modelling. To ensure these models are generalizable to unseen data, it is common to assume that the training and test data are independently sampled from an identical distribution, known as the sample i.i.d. assumption. In dynamic and non-stationary environments, the distribution of data changes over time, resulting in the phenomenon of ‘concept drift’ (also known as population drift or concept shift), which is a generalization of covariance shift in statistics. Over the last five years, transfer learning and multitask learning have been used to tackle this problem. Fundamental analyses using probably approximately correct (PAC) and Rademacher complexity frameworks have explained why appropriate incorporation of context and concept drift can improve generalizability in changing environments. It is possible to use human-level processing power to tackle concept drift in changing environments. Concept drift is a real-world problem, usually associated with online and concept learning, where the relationships between input data and target variables dynamically change over time. Traditional learning schemes do not adequately address this issue, either because they are offline or because they avoid dynamic learning. However, BIL seems to possess properties that would be helpful for solving concept drift problems in changing environments. Intuitively, the human capacity to deal with concept drift is innate to cognitive processes, and the learning problems susceptible to concept drift seem to share some of the dynamic demands placed on plastic neural areas in the brain. Using improved biological models in neural networks can provide insight into cognitive computational phenomena. However, a main outstanding issue in using computational intelligence for changing environments and domain adaptation is how to build complex networks, or how networks should be connected to the features, samples, and distribution drifts. Manual design and building of these networks are beyond current human capabilities. Recently, computational intelligence methods has been used to address concept drift in changing environments, with promising results. A Hebbian learning model has been used to handle random, as well as correlated, concept drift. Neural networks have been used for concept drift detection, and the influence of latent variables on concept drift in a neural network has been studied. In another study, a timing-dependent synapse model has been applied to concept drift. These works mainly apply biologically-plausible computational models to concept drift problems. Although these results are still in their infancy, they open up new possibilities to achieve brain-like intelligence for solving concept drift problems in changing environments. Taking the current state of research in computational intelligence for changing environments into account, the objective of this special issue is to collate this research to help unify the concepts and terminology of computational intelligence in changing environments, and to survey state-of-the-art computational intelligence methodologies and the key techniques investigated to date. Therefore, this special issue invites submissions on the most recent developments in computational intelligence for changing environments algorithms and architectures, theoretical foundations, and representations, & their application to real world problems. We also welcome timely surveys & review papers. Topics of Interest include (but are not limited to): • Computational intelligence methodologies and implementation for changing environments • Transfer learning, Multitask learning, Domain adaption • Incremental Learning architectures, Unsupervised and semi-supervised learning architectures • Incremental Knowledge augmentation, Representation learning and disentangling • Incremental Adaptive Neuro-fuzzy systems • Incremental and single-pass data mining • Incremental Neural Clustering & Regression • Incremental Adaptive decision systems • Incremental Feature selection and reduction • Incremental Constructive Learning • Novelty detection in Incremental learning Submission Process The maximum length for the manuscript is typically 25 pages in single column format with double-spacing, including figures and references. Authors should specify in the first page of their manuscripts the corresponding author’s contact and up to 5 keywords. Submission should be made via: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=ieee-cim-cice2015 Important Dates (for August 2015 Issue) 15th November, 2014: Submission of Manuscripts 15th January, 2015: Notification of Review Results 15th February, 2015: Submission of Revised Manuscripts 15th March, 2015: Submission of Final Manuscripts Guest Editors Professor Amir Hussain, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland UK Email: ahu(a)cs.stir.ac.uk http://cs.stir.ac.uk/~ahu/ Professor Dacheng Tao, University of Technology, Sydney, 235 Jones Street, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia Email: dacheng.tao(a)uts.edu.au Professor Jonathan Wu University of Windsor 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, ON, Canada Email: jwu(a)uwindsor.ca Professor Dongbin Zhao Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China E-mail: dongbin.zhao(a)gmail.com -- The University of Stirling has been ranked in the top 12 of UK universities for graduate employment*. 94% of our 2012 graduates were in work and/or further study within six months of graduation. *The Telegraph The University of Stirling is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC 011159.

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FW: PhD/Researcher positions in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or Biomedical Engineering
by Morgado Dias Aug. 9, 2014

Aug. 9, 2014

Dear Members, Positions 3 and 4 might be interesting for the community. Best regards, Morgado ------------------------------------------------------ PhD/Researcher positions in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or Biomedical Engineering The research group of Prof. Morgado Dias (Madeira Interactive Technologies Institute - Partner of the Carnegie Mellon University - Portugal program) is looking for PhD students and researchers for: (1) Monitoring and Fault detection in Photovoltaic parks (funded project-1year-possible follow-up with a PhD) (2) 3D Image Processing (funded project-1year- possible follow-up with a PhD) (3) Hardware for Artificial Neural Networks, with emphasis on emerging architectures (PhD, but needs to be externally funded) (4) FPGA prototype for detecting sleep APNEA disorders (PhD – needs to apply to a specific program in Portugal for funding if required) Information about the Institute, University and Region: Madeira Interactive Technologies Institute - Partner of the Carnegie Mellon University - Portugal program, is an innovation institute established as an associated independent non-profit R&D organization whose founding members are the University of Madeira, Madeira Tecnopolo S. A. and Carnegie Mellon University. Recently awarded a 2,4M€ funding, Madeira-ITI operates in the interdisciplinary domain of human-computer interaction encapsulating contributions from computer science, psychology and design in order to address/engage in important scientific and technological challenges that are both relevant to society and have significant economic impact (www.m-iti.org <http://www.m-iti.org> ). The University of Madeira is an active public university integrated in Portuguese Higher Education System and the European Community. Madeira is a small island with paradisiac living conditions and warm people. Recently elected as the Best European Island, you will find in a small place a diversity of landscapes that go from the beach to the mountain with low living costs and almost no crime. Prof. Morgado Dias research expertise includes Artificial Neural Networks, FPGAs and Renewable Energy. More information can be found at: http://www.cee.uma.pt/morgado/ Profile for candidates: (1) A master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering or Computer Engineering (preferred) or an undergraduate degree in the same areas, completed before arrival. (2) Good oral and spoken English as well as good communication skills. TOEFL or IELTS scores are encouraged. At least the English proficiency that fulfills the requirements of CSC applications is necessary. (3) Teamwork spirit. (4) Self-motivation and independent working ability. (5) Knowledge of and research experience related to the above fields are strongly preferred. (6) Previous published work and interest in pursuing a PhD is preferred. Application: If you are interested, please address your motivation letter (with a brief description of yourself, research ability & interest) and CV to: morgadoatuma.pt <mailto:morgado@uma.pt> --- Este email está livre de vírus e malware porque a proteção avast! Antivirus está ativa. http://www.avast.com

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PhD opportunities at the Queensland Brain Institute
by Geoffrey Goodhill Aug. 8, 2014

Aug. 8, 2014

PhD Positions at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), The University of Queensland Application deadline Oct 1st 2014 The Queensland Brain Institute (www.qbi.uq.edu.au) is seeking exceptional and highly motivated PhD candidates to undertake neuroscience research at its state-of-the-art building located at The University of Queensland’s (UQ) St Lucia campus, Brisbane, Australia. UQ has 45,000 students (12,000 postgraduate) and is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world. QBI is one of UQ’s flagship research institutes, with researchers working to understand the fundamental mechanisms of brain function, and applying such research to the development of new therapeutics to combat diseases where brain function is compromised. The Institute’s multidisciplinary environment is home to more than 400 staff and students. Key areas of interest include: • Ageing Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease • Cognition and Behaviour • Computation and Neuronal Circuits • Neurogenesis and Neuronal Survival • Genetics and Epigenetics • Neuronal Development and Connectivity • Sensory Systems • Synaptic Function Since establishment in 2003 QBI researchers have published >1200 papers in the world’s foremost journals, including 460 in the past 2 years. QBI is 100 metres from UQ's Centre for Advanced imaging (www.cai.uq.edu.au) which houses 7T human and 16.4T animal MRI scanners. Scholarships and Remuneration QBI offers full-time PhD scholarships for outstanding Australian and International students (living allowance AU$25,392 per annum, indexed annually, tax exempt) for 3 years with a possible 6 month extension. In addition, QBI supports high quality domestic and international applicants in their nomination to The University of Queensland’s competitive scholarship rounds (three rounds per year). A QBI top-up scholarship of $5,000 per annum may also be available to successful candidates. Candidates should have a First Class Honours degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, molecular biology, bioscience, psychology, genetics, physical sciences, engineering, mathematics or a related discipline. Strong academic performance, the commitment to conduct high quality neuroscience research, and published output are highly desirable. For further information on the Basis of Admission to a UQ research higher degree, please visit http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/our-research-degrees. Successful applicants must accept and commence within 6 months of receiving an award. Enquiries and Applications Please review the research interests of QBI Group Leaders at http://www.qbi.uq.edu.au/group-leaders and make direct contact with a Group Leader working in an area of greatest interest to you, providing your detailed academic resume and complete academic records (including GPA scores/grades, and grading scale details). The Group Leader will work with you to develop your application for submission to QBI. Applications close on 1 October, 2014 Professor Geoffrey J Goodhill Queensland Brain Institute and School of Mathematics & Physics University of Queensland St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia Email: g.goodhill(a)uq.edu.au http://www.qbi.uq.edu.au/professor-geoffrey-goodhill

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PhD Studentship in Neural Fields and Movement Control, University of Reading, UK
by Ingo Bojak Aug. 7, 2014

Aug. 7, 2014

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Fellowships in Neural Engineering at the University of Washington
by Adrienne Fairhall Aug. 6, 2014

Aug. 6, 2014

We invite applications for the Washington Research Foundation Innovation Fellowships in Neuroengineering at the University of Washington in Seattle. These fellowships will be offered through the recently established UW Institute for Neuroengineering, which aims to aims to solve some of today’s greatest scientific challenges about neural system function by linking advances in biology, computing, devices, data science, and computational neuroscience. These highly selective fellowships will fund research in computational and engineering approaches to neuroscience; joint mentoring between faculty in different disciplines (CS, engineering, mathematics, neurobiology) is strongly encouraged. Applications are due September 1, 2014. Please see http://uwin.washington.edu/post-docs/ for more details of the application procedure.

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IWSP7: Epilepsy Mechanisms, Models, Prediction & Control
by Levin Kuhlmann Aug. 6, 2014

Aug. 6, 2014

Dear Colleagues, It is with unbridled excitement that we announce the date of the 7th International Workshop on Seizure Prediction: IWSP7: Epilepsy Mechanisms, Models, Prediction & Control Date: 3-6 August 2015 Location: Melbourne, Australia Website: www.iwsp7.org<http://www.iwsp7.org> The IWSP series of conferences bring together researchers across multiple disciplines to focus on epilepsy research. This conference will centre on the engineering and science of epilepsy from basic mechanisms and imaging, to computational modelling for analysis and prediction, through to feedback control of epilepsy. Invited Speakers: Samuel Berkovic, University of Melbourne, Australia (Genetics and individual-specific nature of epilepsy) Bin He, University of Minnesota, USA (EEG-based imaging to localise seizure and high frequency activity) Louis Lemieux, University College London, UK (Multi-modal imaging of human epileptic zone and networks) Martha Morrell, Stanford University, Neuropace, USA (Responsive seizure control and clinical implications) John Terry, University of Exeter, UK (Modelling multiscale brain networks: seizure initiation, evolution and prediction) Gregory Worrell, Mayo Clinic, USA (Forecasting epileptic seizures in dogs) Please forward this notice to anyone that you think might be interested. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting! On behalf of the local organizing committee Levin Kuhlmann, PhD David B. Grayden, PhD Mark J. Cook, MD Dean R. Freestone, PhD Alan Lai, PhD Elma O'Sullivan-Greene, PhD Andre Petersen, BSc(hons) Email: organizingcommittee(a)iwsp7.org<mailto:organizingcommittee@iwsp7.org>

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Wanted: neurotheory postdoc, to catch fireflies
by Xaq Pitkow Aug. 6, 2014

Aug. 6, 2014

POSITION: Xaq Pitkow's Computational Neuroscience group jointly at Rice University and the Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston, Texas, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher who will develop theory and analyses of dynamic neural representations in animal brains. This is for a newly funded project to test how neural computations enable animals to catch fireflies in a virtual reality environment. The project will require multiple interlocking theoretical components and hands-on engagement with neural data analysis. We aim to understand the interplay between vision, spatial navigation, and decision-making in the face of uncertainty during a naturalistic, continuous-time task. LAB ENVIRONMENT: Our research focuses on computational functions of neural networks, especially how they compute properties of the world using ambiguous sensory evidence. A few related topics include: distributed neural representations, biological algorithms for statistical inference, and computation by nonlinear recurrent networks. This project is a close collaboration with the labs of Dora Angelaki, Greg DeAngelis, and Paul Schrater, all highly quantitative researchers in behavioral and cognitive neuroscience. QUALIFICATIONS: Important selection criteria include strong mathematical skills, practical knowledge of machine learning tools, and past research accomplishments. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in a relevant quantitative discipline, e.g. physics, math, machine learning, or statistics. Previous experience with neurobiology is advantageous but not essential. APPLYING: Applicants should email a letter of research interests and CV to Xaq Pitkow (xaq(a)rice.edu) The position is available immediately, and we look forward to reviewing applications as they arrive.

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Postdoc position in machine/biological vision – Serre lab, Brown University (Providence, RI)
by Thomas Serre Aug. 5, 2014

Aug. 5, 2014

The computational vision research group, headed by Dr. Thomas Serre at Brown University, has an opening for a postdoctoral fellow to work at the interface between computational neuroscience and computer vision. In particular, we are looking for computer scientists interested in the development of novel machine learning / computer vision algorithms derived from high-fidelity representations of cortical microcircuits to achieve human-like performance on complex information processing tasks. Candidates are expected to have a solid background in modern computer vision and machine learning methods and in particular, strong expertise in optimization techniques and deep learning methods. An interest in biological vision and applications of computer vision to the biological sciences would also be a strong plus. The initial appointment is for 12 months, renewable for another year, and potentially longer depending on funding. The start date is negotiable though an early start is strongly preferred. Salary is commensurate with experience and is competitive. Representative recent work related to the project: D. Reichert & T. Serre. Neuronal synchrony in complex-valued deep networks. International Conference on Learning Representations, 2014 T. Serre and T. Poggio. Reverse-engineering the brain. In: the Communications of the Association for Computing Machinery (CACM), 53(10), pp. 54-61, Oct 2010 Research group: Our research group is located within the Department of Cognitive Linguistic & Psychological sciences at Brown University. We maintain strong ties with the neuroscience, computer science, engineering and applied math departments as part of the Brain Institute. Through Brown’s Center for Computation and Visualization (https://www.ccv.brown.edu) our group has access to a state-of-the-art computing facility with includes over 300K GPU cores and over 500 Teraflops of GPU computing power. Information about Dr. Serre and his research group can be found at http://serre-lab.clps.brown.edu . Requirements: Applicants are expected to have finished, or be about to finish their Ph.D. degrees. They must have a strong background in computer vision and/or machine learning, with a track record of relevant publications at top venues (such as NIPS, CVPR, ICCV, ICML or ECCV). Excellent programming skills are required (C/C++/Matlab/Python). Programming experience in CUDA and/or parallel computing would be a strong plus. Application: Please send your applications by email to serre-admin(a)correct_university_name.edu where correct_university_name should be replaced by brown. Please include a brief statement of interests, a curriculum vita, a list of publications and contact details for 2-3 letters of reference (no letters required at this stage).

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Two Postdoctoral Positions in Computational Modeling of Primate Motor Control
by Ilya Rybak Aug. 4, 2014

Aug. 4, 2014

=============== Two postdoctoral/research associate positions in computational neuroscience for the duration of up to three years are available in the externally funded project focusing on multiscale computational modeling of motor control mechanisms, involving interactions between basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum, cortex, and spinal cord in connection with realistic simulation of pathological changes in motor control during Huntington’s disease. This collaborative project is performed jointly by the groups of Drs. Ilya Rybak (Dept. of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA) and Yaroslav Molkov (Dept. of Mathematical Science, Indiana University – Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, USA). Applicants must have a PhD degree in Neuroscience, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline and have excellent C++ programming skills. Previous experience in computational neuronal modeling is a plus. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Rybak (rybak(a)drexel.edu) or Dr. Molkov (ymolkov(a)iupui.edu) by email. To apply, please send an email along with (1) curriculum vitae; (2) a cover letter describing previous research experience and interests; (3) the names and contact information of three references. ================================= Ilya A. Rybak, Ph.D. Professor Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy Drexel University College of Medicine 2900 Queen Lane Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA Tel.: (215) 991-8596 FAX: (215) 843-9082 E-mail: rybak(a)drexel.edu http://neurobio.drexelmed.edu/rybakweb/rybak.html http://www.drexelmed.edu/Home/AboutOurFaculty/IlyaARybak.aspx https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ilya_Rybak/publications/ http://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=SnA068QAAAAJ http://www.pubfacts.com/author/Ilya+A+Rybak Yaroslav Molkov, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis Department of Mathematical Sciences 402 N. Blackford St, LD 270, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Office: LD 224U Phone: (317) 274-6934 Fax: (317) 274-3460 Email: ymolkov(a)iupui.edu

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Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Cognitive Psychology
by Aaron Seitz Aug. 4, 2014

Aug. 4, 2014

The Department of Psychology,University of California, Riverside, invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Cognitive Psychology, beginning July 1, 2015. We seek applicants whose research examines language learning, at any time scale, and/or bilingualism. The ideal candidate will contribute to our emerging emphasis in experience- dependent change. Applicants should demonstrate a record of research excellence using methodological approaches involving human behavior, neuroimaging, and/or computational modeling. Applicants should be committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education. The Ph.D. degree is required at time of hire. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Review of completed applications begins October 10, 2014 and continues until the position is filled. Interested candidates should send a cover letter describing research and teaching interests, their curriculum vitae, reprints and preprints, and arrange to have three letters of recommendation provided, all using the following link: https://aprecruit.ucr.edu/apply/JPF00159. Questions about the position should be directed to Professor Christine Chiarello, Chair, Cognitive Area Search Committee, at christine.chiarello(a)ucr.edu. The Riverside campus of the University of California is growing rapidly and has an excellent psychology department with a strong record of success in research, teaching and extramural funding. For information on the Department of Psychology, see our web site at: http://www.psych.ucr.edu. The campus is centrally located in Southern California, about 50 miles east of Los Angeles and less than an hour's drive from the area's mountains, deserts and beaches. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. *Note Applicants who use Interfolio may utilize a feature provided by the Interfolio Service to allow Interfolio to upload their letters directly into AP Recruit without bothering the letter writer. Applicants can input an Interfolio-generated email address in place of their letter writer¹s email address. Interfolio refers to this as online application deliveries. The following link on the Interfolio website shows how to set this up: http://help.interfolio.com/entries/24062742-Uploading-Letters-to-an-Online- application-System ************************************************** Aaron Seitz, Ph.D. Professor Department of Psychology University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521 Ph: (951) 827-6422 Fax: (951) 827-3985 Email: aseitz(a)ucr.edu Web: http://faculty.ucr.edu/~aseitz/ **************************************************

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Call for Papers: Tha ICIISCT2015 Conference in India
by Grace Allas Aug. 2, 2014

Aug. 2, 2014

[My apology for receiving multiple copies] ----------------------------------------------------------------- http://sdiwc.net/conferences/iciisct2015/ *International Conference on Innovations in Intelligent Systems and Computing Technologies (ICIISCT2015)* September 18-20, 2015 Rajasthan Vidyapeeth (D) University, India Udaipur, Rajasthan, India All registered papers will be included in SDIWC Digital Library. ============================================================== 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, Modelling 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 Researchers are encouraged to submit their work electronically. All papers will be fully refereed by a minimum of two specialized referees. Before final acceptance, all referees comments must be considered. Paper Submission: http://sdiwc.net/conferences/iciisct2015/openconf/openconf.php IMPORTANT DATES: Submission Deadline : open from now until August 18, 2015 Notification of Acceptance : 2 - 4 weeks from the submission date Camera Ready Submission : September 05, 2015 Registration Date : September 05, 2015 Conference Dates : September 18-20, 2015 Contact email: : iciisct2015(a)sdiwc.net

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PhD position
by Lendasse, Amaury Aug. 1, 2014

Aug. 1, 2014

One PhD student position available (Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant) Topic: Machine Learning for Big Data Where: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA (http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/mie) Starting date: January 15th 2015 Requirements: Applicants should have a keen interest in Machine Learning and hold a Master or equivalent degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, or Mathematics. The candidate should have excellent programming skills (e.g. Matlab, Python, C/C++) and good analytic skills. Experience with Big Data in Machine Learning (e.g., Hadoop, MapReduce, GPU computing,...), Data Mining and Data Analysis (time series analysis, visualization,...) are a plus. Minimum TOEFL Score Requirements: a score of 600 or higher on the paper-based (PBT) version of the test, or a score of 100 or higher on the Internet-based version of the test (iBT). The selected candidate will then apply officially to the UIOWA: http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/mie/graduate-program/industrial-engineerin… Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Associate Prof. Lendasse (amaury-lendasse(a)uiowa.edu) by email. To apply, please send an email (subject: PhD Position MIE IOWA) along with a SINGLE PDF file including: (1) a cover letter describing previous experiences and interests (maximum 1 page) (2) Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages) (3) academic transcripts (4) the names and contact information of two or three references (maximum 1 page) (5) Skype Name Application Deadline: August 17th 2014 Amaury Lendasse, Associate Professor Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering 2403 Seamans Center for the Engineering Arts and Sciences The University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, USA email: amaury-lendasse(a)uiowa.edu WWW: http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/mie/faculty-staff/amaury-lendasse

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Kind Reminder:: CFP:: 3rd ICIEIS2014- Poland
by The Third International Conference on Informatics Engineering and Information Science (ICIEIS2014) Aug. 1, 2014

Aug. 1, 2014

| Please accept our apology for multiple posting. THANK YOU | +-----------------------------------------------------------+ The Third International Conference on Informatics Engineering and Information Science (ICIEIS2014) Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland September 22-24, 2014 http://sdiwc.net/conferences/2014/icieis2014/ ============================================================================ The proposed conference will be held at Lodz University of Technology Lodz, Poland from September 22-24, 2014 which aims to enable researchers to build connections between different digital applications. The conference welcomes papers on the following (but not limited to) research topics: - Real-Time Systems - Software Engineering - Biometrics Technologies - Mobile Social Networks - Information Ethics - Information Content Security - Information and Data Management - Network Security - Social Networks - Wireless Communications - Information Propagation on Social Networks Researchers are encouraged to submit their work electronically. All papers will be fully refereed by a minimum of two specialized referees. Before final acceptance, all referees comments must be considered. Important Dates ============================================================================ Submission Date : Open from now until August 20, 2014 Notification of acceptance: 2-3 weeks from the submission date Camera Ready submission : Sept. 12, 2014 Registration : Sept. 12, 2014 Conference dates : Sept. 22-24, 2014

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Open Position: Software Developer in Neuroinformatics at LMU Munich
by Thomas Wachtler July 31, 2014

July 31, 2014

At the German Neuroinformatics Node (G-Node, http://www.g-node.org) Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, a full-time position is available to join the G-Node team in developing neuroinformatics solutions for data management in neurophysiology. Variety and complexity of data in this field bring the challenge of large-scale data access, consistent storage and efficient data analysis. G-Node is interacting closely with research labs to address these challenges with state of the art neuroinformatics methods. Current developments include a data sharing platform and tools for metadata management and data annotation. G-Node is part of the Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience (http://nncn.de) is collaborating with the International Neuroinformatics Coordination Facility (INCF, http://incf.org) Secretariat and other INCF National Nodes, and is involved in teaching and training activities. The position involves working in a small team of developers within a lively neuroscience environment, with ample opportunities for bridging between neuroscience research and neuroinformatics. Tasks will include contributing to the development and enhancement of G-Node tools and services (http://www.g-node.org/tools-and-services) working closely with neuroscience laboratories that use, or plan to use, neuroinformatics solutions. Candidates should have excellent programming skills, preferably in Python and C++ or Java, knowledge about relational databases, the ability to work in a team, and a strong interest in the development of novel open-source solutions for neuroscience. Experience in further fields of relevance, such as web development (Javascript, HTML/CSS, web frameworks), semantic web technologies, scientific software and analysis, experimental or computational neuroscience, would be beneficial. The position is available immediately, salary level is according to TV-L, duration is one year with possibility of extension. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference in case of equal qualification. Applications by women are specifically encouraged. Applications should include CV, statement of experience and motivation, and names of referees. Informal inquiries prior to application are welcome. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications should be sent, preferably as pdf file by email, to Thomas Wachtler <wachtler(a)bio.lmu.de> -- Dr. Thomas Wachtler <wachtler(a)bio.lmu.de> Scientific Director German Neuroinformatics Node Department Biology II Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Grosshaderner Str. 2 82152 Planegg-Martinsried Germany

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Postdoctoral Position in Computational Motor Control
by Jon Sensinger July 31, 2014

July 31, 2014

A postdoctoral position in computational motor control is available to apply optimal control and computational motor control methods to improve the control, sensory feedback, and outcome measures used in prosthetics. The successful applicant will join an interdisciplinary team at the University of New Brunswick’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering that includes scientists, clinicians, and engineers focused on improving clinically viable prostheses and exoskeleton design and control. He or she will be expected to leverage research from the broader neuroscience research community to develop computational approaches for addressing real-world problems, and will have the opportunity to interact on a daily basis with patients. This collaborative project is performed jointly by the groups of Drs. Jon Sensinger (Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of New Brunswick, Canada) Levi Hargrove (Center for Bionic Medicine, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, USA), and Konrad Kording (Northwestern University, Chicago USA). A layman’s overview of the project is video-scribed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEzbuiJi0T0 Applicants must have a PhD degree in Neuroscience, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline and have excellent Matlab programming skills. Previous experience in computational motor control or optimal control is a plus. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Sensinger (j.sensinger(a)unb.ca<mailto:j.sensinger@unb.ca>) by email. To apply, please send an email along with (1) curriculum vitae; (2) a cover letter describing previous research experience and interests; (3) the names and contact information of three references. Dr. Sensinger will be available to answer questions and discuss this job opportunity with potential candidates at the EMBC 2014 meeting in Chicago, USA (August 27-30). Jon Sensinger, PhD Associate Director, Institute of Biomedical Engineering Associate Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering University of New Brunswick http://www.ece.unb.ca/jsensing Twitter: @jsensinger LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jon-sensinger/9a/1b2/a09

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[meetings] ICANN 2014 - Final Program and Call for Participation
by Stefan Wermter July 31, 2014

July 31, 2014

------------------------------------------------------------------- Call for Participation and Conference Program ICANN 2014: 24th Annual Conference on Artificial Neural Networks 15 - 19 September 2014, University of Hamburg, Germany http://icann2014.org/ =================================================================== We invite you to attend the 2014 International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks (ICANN), which is the annual flagship conference of the European Neural Network Society (ENNS). In 2014 the University of Hamburg will organize the 24th ICANN Conference from 15th to 19th September 2014 in Hamburg, Germany. CONFERENCE PROGRAM: The main conference program is now available. The program includes 72 oral presentations, 33 posters and 2 live Demonstrations. http://icann2014.org/program/ REGISTRATION: The ICANN 2014 registration is open. The full registration costs 490 € and 390 € for students. ENNS members pay a reduced rate of 440 €, and 340 € for students. The registration includes access to scientific sessions and plenary talks, coffee breaks during the main conference, welcome event, conference dinner, one copy of the proceedings (USB), one conference bag. Additional tickets for the conference dinner can be purchased for 70 €. http://icann2014.org/registration/ VENUE AND TRANSPORTATION: Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany, home to over 1.8 million people. Situated at the river Elbe, the port of Hamburg is the second-largest port in Europe. The University of Hamburg is the largest institution for research and education in the north of Germany. The venue of the conference is the ESA building of the University of Hamburg, situated at Edmund-Siemers-Allee near the city centre and easily reachable from Dammtor Railway Station. Hamburg Airport can be reached easily via public transport. ACCOMMODATION: For the accomodation we arranged guaranteed rates for a couple of hotels in Hamburg for ICANN 2014. http://icann2014.org/accommodation/ CHAIRS and ORGANISATION: General Chair: Stefan Wermter (Hamburg, Germany) Program co-Chairs Alessandro E.P. Villa (Lausanne, Switzerland, ENNS President) Wlodzislaw Duch (Torun, Poland, ENNS Past-President) Timo Honkela (Helsinki, Finland) Petia Koprinkova-Hristova (Sofia, Bulgaria) Günther Palm (Ulm, Germany) Cornelius Weber (Hamburg, Germany) Local Organizing Committee Chairs: Sven Magg, Johannes Bauer, Jorge Chacon, Stefan Heinrich, Doreen Jirak, Katja Koesters, Erik Strahl KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: Christopher M. Bishop (Microsoft Research, Cambridge, UK) Jun Tani (KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea) Paul Verschure (Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain) Yann LeCun (New York University, NY, USA) Barbara Hammer (Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany) Kevin Gurney (University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK) CONFERENCE TOPICS: ICANN 2014 will feature the main tracks Brain Inspired Computing and Machine Learning research, with strong cross-disciplinary interactions and applications. All research fields dealing with Neural Networks will be present at the conference. A non-exhaustive list of topics includes: Brain Inspired Computing: Cognitive models, Computational Neuroscience, Self-organization, Reinforcement Learning, Neural Control and Planning, Hybrid Neural-Symbolic Architectures, Neural Dynamics, Recurrent Networks, Deep Learning. Machine Learning: Neural Network Theory, Neural Network Models, Graphical Models, Bayesian Networks, Kernel Methods, Generative Models, Information Theoretic Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Relational Learning, Dynamical Models. Neural Applications for: Intelligent Robotics, Neurorobotics, Language Processing, Image Processing, Sensor Fusion, Pattern Recognition, Data Mining, Neural Agents, Brain-Computer Interaction, Neural Hardware, Evolutionary Neural Networks. CONFERENCE WEBSITE: http://www.icann2014.org *********************************************** Professor Dr. Stefan Wermter Chair of Knowledge Technology Department of Computer Science University of Hamburg Vogt Koelln Str. 30 22527 Hamburg, Germany http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/~wermter/ http://www.informatik.uni-hamburg.de/WTM/ ***********************************************

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FINAL CALL for Goettingen's 12th annual comp-neuro summer course. DEADLINE: Aug. 6th.
by Maximilian Puelma Touzel July 29, 2014

July 29, 2014

Final call for applicants to apply to the 12th summer course on COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE in Göttingen, Germany September 08th - 12th, 2014 Organized by Agostina Palmigiano, Joscha Liedtke and Maximilian Puelma-Touzel Sponsored by -the Bernstein Centre for Computation Neuroscience, Göttingen -the International Max Planck Research School for the Physics of Biological and Complex Systems -the Goettingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences ______________________________ The course is intended to provide graduate students and young researchers from within and outside of neuroscience with working knowledge of theory and analysis methods used in the field and to acquaint them with recent developments therein. The focus of this year's course is modelling and theory of neuronal ensembles. The course includes tutorials and lectures from the following researchers: * Carl Van Vreesijk, Universite Rene Descartes, Paris, France * Claudia Clopath, Imperial College London, London, England * Srdjan Ostojic, École Normale Supérieure, Paris, France * Gasper Tkacik, Institute of Science and Technology, Vienna, Austria * Alfonso Renart, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal The course takes place at the Department of Nonlinear Dynamics of the Max-Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Göttingen. A course fee of 100 Euro includes participation in the tutorials, study materials, and part of the social events. The number of participants is limited to 30. Course language is English. To apply please fill out the application form at: http://www.bccn-goettingen.de/events/cns-course by *August 6, 2014* Best wishes and looking forward to seeing you in Göttingen, Max Puelma Touzel (on behalf of the organizers) Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization Fassberg 17, 37077 Goettingen, Germany +49 551 5176 444 Office +49 (0)176 6 876 2821 Mobile mptouzel(a)nld.ds.mpg.de www.nld.ds.mpg.de

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Postdoc in computational neuroscience
by Joaquín Navajas July 29, 2014

July 29, 2014

Post doc in computational neuroscience (Centre for Systems Neuroscience - University of Leicester, UK) Spike sorting is the classification of single neurons from extra cellular recordings based on their spike shapes. The main focus of your research will be the study and implementation of optimal spike detection and sorting techniques. For this you will study different techniques to improve the spike detection and sorting results and will then implement these advances in a graphic user interphase and in batch codes to run in matlab. Link for more details: http://www.le.ac.uk/jobs/external/SEN00493_Job_Summary.pdf <https://email.le.ac.uk/owa/redir.aspx?C=6xLmoEDA8kadrrcI2z0-IpKjtXikftEISUM…> Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Sue Atkinson, Research Centre Manager, sam45(a)le.ac.uk <https://email.le.ac.uk/owa/redir.aspx?C=RXnrNoZO4k-7v7qrCHbb4FuwAk44fdEIFNi…> or 0116 252 3249

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CNS workshop
by Jonathan Rubin July 28, 2014

July 28, 2014

Dear Comp-Neuro members who are attending the CNS*2014 meeting, We are happy to invite you attend the workshop “Dynamics of Disease States” that will take place on Wednesday, July 30th at the CNS*2014 meeting in Quebec. The workshop will be held in room 2104A and the full program is available at: http://wwwhome.math.utwente.nl/~gilssa/cns2014/?page=program best regards, Stephan van Gils and Jon Rubin

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Columbia+Janelia postdoc positions: zebrafish computational neuroscience and machine learning
by Liam Paninski July 28, 2014

July 28, 2014

Colleagues, Will you please circulate this postdoc ad amongst your students or anyone else who might be interested: http://grossmancenter.columbia.edu/zebrafish.html? Thank you. Liam Paninski ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Postdoctoral position in large-scale computational neuroscience A full-time postdoctoral position is available immediately, jointly between Columbia University's Grossman Center for the Statistics of Mind and HHMI's Janelia Research Campus. The aim is to understand whole-brain activity at the cellular level using large-scale computational methods. The position is co-supervised by Liam Paninski, John Cunningham and Larry Abbott (at Columbia) and Jeremy Freeman and Misha Ahrens (at Janelia Research Campus) and is centered around understanding the dynamics of all neurons in the brain of behaving larval zebrafish. We use light-sheet imaging to record simultaneously from most of the ~10^5 neurons during behavior, and use large-scale cluster computing and machine learning, statistics, and modeling to gain insight into how brain-wide network dynamics underlies behavior. The position will be based at Columbia University and HHMI Janelia Research Campus, and we will encourage applicants to spend time at both campuses. Requirements: Qualifications include primarily a strong research portfolio in computational neuroscience, statistical neuroscience, machine learning, or a related field. Backgrounds in analyzing large neural datasets, modeling complex neural systems, and in cutting-edge machine learning will be particularly valuable. These positions are highly quantitative and highly interdisciplinary; applicants should have a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Statistics, Machine Learning, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Computational Neuroscience. Appointment: The initial appointments will be for one year, and are renewable. Salaries will be set based on experience and skills. Applicants should send an email to zebrafish.computation(a)gmail.com providing: 1. a one-page description of past research experience 2. a one-page description of future research interests and goals 3. a resume of educational and research experience, including publications 4. names of three people who could provide letters of reference All materials should be in pdf or plain text. Applications will be reviewed as they arrive until the positions are filled; interested candidates are encouraged to express their interest early. Due to demand, we may not be able to reply to all applications.

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ONLY FOR STUDENTS - 2 weeks mini computational neuroscience freelance project for students from home
by Robert Schindle July 28, 2014

July 28, 2014

Hello All, We are currently working on a project in the field of computational neuroscience which requires some help with analyzing data and documenting the research within the next 2 weeks. We are looking for someone with good c++ and Python skills. You will be compensated accordingly. If you are interested please contact us immediately so that we can discuss other details and start the work immediately. Thanks a lot, Robert Schindle.

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Postdoctoral Position- Arizona
by Jean-Marc July 26, 2014

July 26, 2014

The Computational and Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory is looking to fill a position for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow. The research project is geared towards understanding the role of awake hippocampal replay in spatial navigation. The techniques used include high density electrophysiology in the behaving rat. The project is multidisciplinary and involves collaboration with a robotics team (University of Florida, Tampa) and a computational neuroscience team (INSERM, Lyon, France). Good communication skills are necessary. This position is appropriate for a computational neuroscientist with some experimental background interested in branching out to experimental neuroscience. Applicants with a subset of the following skill set are strongly encouraged to apply: - Scientific expertise or interests in hippocampus and/or prefrontal-cortex - Electrophysiology (in vivo chronic behaving or in vitro) - Behavioral Neuroscience (rat training/testing) - General laboratory skills (e.g. histology, surgery) - Matlab programming and spike-data analyses Applicant should send a cover letter, CV and the names of at least 2 references to Dr. Jean-Marc Fellous (fellous(a)email.arizona.edu) The search is ongoing and is projected to be completed by October 30th, 2014. Information about the laboratory can be found at: http://amygdala.psychdept.arizona.edu/lab.html The CENL and the University of Arizona are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.

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Postdoctoral positions: Memory, motor, & learning dynamics
by Mark Goldman July 25, 2014

July 25, 2014

Two theoretical postdoctoral positions and 1-2 collaborative experiment-theory positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Mark Goldman at the University of California at Davis.The lab works on a broad range of problems in computational neuroscience ranging from neural coding to dynamics and plasticity of single neurons and networks. Immediate funding is available for a range of projects related to working memory, neural integration, motor learning, and synaptic plasticity as described below.The postdoctoral candidate also would have flexibility to work on a range of issues of his or her choosing.Candidates are expected to have strong training in an analytically rigorous discipline such as theoretical neuroscience, physics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering.The postdoctoral candidate will have ample opportunity to interact within the vibrant computational and systems neuroscience communities at UC Davis and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Candidates should send a CV, brief statement of previous research and future research interests, and contact information for three references to: Mark Goldman, msgoldman(a)ucdavis.edu. Specific positions with funding include: 1) *Theoretical positions:Dynamics of memory and motor-related neural activity* /Challenging the attractor picture of working memory/.In the traditional attractor picture of working memory, memory storage results from positive feedback processes that lead to the formation of self-sustained attractors.In one project, we are exploring how functionally feedforward, rather than feedback, network architectures can generate flexible codes for storing memories and producing a broad range of input-output transformations.In a second project, we are utilizing methods from engineering control theory to show how balanced cortical networks can utilize negative feedback to stabilize persistent patterns of neural activity. /Multi-scale modeling of neural integration./The oculomotor neural integrator, which transforms eye-velocity encoding motor commands into eye-position encoding commands, is a model system for understanding the mathematical integration of inputs and the maintenance of memory-storing activity.We seek to determine the respective roles of cellular and circuit mechanisms of memory storage in this system.Multi-scale models, from ion channels to behavior, will be generated based upon electrophysiological and optical imaging recordings and optogenetic manipulations performed in our experimental collaborators' laboratories. /Context-dependent memory storage./Recent experiments suggest that the oculomotor neural integrator functions in a context-dependent manner, producing spatially distinct activity patterns depending upon whether eye movements are being made in the context of rapid changes in gaze (saccades) versus smooth tracking of moving objects.We seek to determine the circuit mechanisms underlying this context-dependent activity and to propose general frameworks, applicable to both oculomotor and cortical memory systems, for how multiple context-dependent inputs can be separately stored in a single network. /Role of the granule cell layer in cerebellar motor learning./The eye movement system provides a highly tractable setting for studying motor learning because it is well-characterized experimentally and has fewer degrees of freedom than more complicated movement systems.In collaboration with whole-circuit optical imaging and optogenetic perturbation experiments in the Aksay laboratory at Cornell Medical University and genetic manipulations, electrophysiological recording, and optogenetic perturbations in Jennifer Raymond's laboratory at Stanford University, we are modeling the neural dynamics and coding of cerebellar granule neurons and their relation to Purkinje cell firing and the plasticity of eye movement behaviors. 2) *Experimental positions:* *Development, dynamics, and plasticity of neural networks: *In collaboration with Kim McAllister (kmcallister(a)ucdavis.edu <mailto:kmcallister@ucdavis.edu>), we are seeking to understand the learning rules underlying development and learning in neural networks. We will use cutting-edge technology in patterned substrates, optogenetics, and uncaging in a novel long-term imaging assay for synapse dynamics that allows recording and single synapse or single cell manipulation of neuronal and network activity. These cultured networks will be used to directly test central tenets of Hebbian, spike-timing dependent, and homeostatic learning over development. The applicant will perform these imaging experiments as well as apply theoretical models to better understand and predict our results. *Dynamics of memory and motor-related neural activity:*There are also possibilities for joint experimental-theoretical work with Emre Aksay's laboratory at Weill Medical College of Cornell University (in New York City) on either oculomotor memory storage or cerebellar motor learning, using /in vivo/ two-photon optical recording and stimulation to dissect circuit function and plasticity.Interested candidates should contact Dr. Aksay at ema2004(a)med.cornell.edu <mailto:ema2004@med.cornell.edu>.

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PhD Position in Brain-Inspired Computing (Theory)
by Mihai A. Petrovici July 25, 2014

July 25, 2014

The Kirchhoff-Institut für Physik at the Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg (Germany) has an immediate opening for a * PhD Position in Brain-Inspired Computing (Theory)* The position is located in the Electronic Vision(s) Lab of Prof. Karlheinz Meier. The group develops large-scale hardware for brain-inspired computing and investigates novel theoretical paradigms of neural computation. The Heidelberg group works on the development of brain-inspired electronic circuits, so-called neuromorphic systems. These systems implement physical models of neurons and synapses in-silico, with fully configurable parameters and connectivity. Throughout a series of international projects, the hardware systems have evolved from single chips to wafer-scale devices with hundreds of thousands of neurons (Schemmel et al., 2010) and are planned to be further scaled up in the framework of the EU Human Brain project (HBP). The configurability of these systems fosters their use as general-purpose emulation devices for neuroscientific research (Pfeil et al., 2013). Their intrinsic parallelism, low power consumption and high acceleration sets them apart from conventional computing architectures. The heterogeneity of neuromorphic substrates requires novel theoretical approaches (Petrovici et al., 2014). The Heidelberg group is also involved in theoretical research and modeling of spike-based computational principles. In particular, the use of stochasticity for Bayesian inference is a major focus. These models provide useful architectures for machine learning, while at the same time advancing the study of possible computational paradigms in the mammalian neocortex (Petrovici et al., 2013). The successful candidate will join the theory and modeling section of the group in developing new stochastic models that exploit the heterogeneity of the hardware substrate, thereby benefitting from its significant speed advantage over conventional simulators. ------------------------------------------ Candidates are expected to hold a Masters degree or equivalent in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related discipline. Knowledge in neuroscience is not required but would be an advantage. The candidates should have a deep interest in theoretical and computational neuroscience, as well as excellent mathematical abilities. An important part of their work will consist in acquiring new skills from various fields of neuroscience, as required by the interdisciplinary nature of the research topic. The successful candidates will use complex simulation software and are therefore required to have very good programming skills. ------------------------------------------ Applications should addressed to Prof. Karlheinz Meier (meierk(a)kip.uni-heidelberg.de) and Mihai Petrovici (mpedro(a)kip.uni-heidelberg.de) including the following information in a single pdf-file : - Statement of research - CV - Two names (with email addresses) of suggested referees - Copies of university degrees and additional certificates - URLs of master /diploma) thesis and related publications

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CNS*14 Tutorial on Neuronal Model Parameter Search Techniques
by Cengiz Günay July 24, 2014

July 24, 2014

Dear colleagues, You are invited to attend our shortly upcoming full-day tutorial session at CNS*2014 in Quebec City. *Where:* Organization for Computational Neurosciences (OCNS) Conference, Quebec City Conference Center, Room 2105 *When:* Saturday July 26, 2014 between 9am - 4:30pm *T9: Neuronal Model Parameter Search Techniques* Parameter tuning of model neurons to mimic biologically realistic activity is a non‐trivial task. Multiple models may exhibit similar dynamics that match experimental data – i.e., there is no single “correct” model. To address this issue, the ensemble modeling technique proposes to represent properties of living neurons with a set of neuronal models. Several approaches to ensemble modeling have been proposed over the years, but the two most prevalent parameter tuning methods are systematic “brute‐force” searches [1, 2] and various evolutionary algorithms‐based techniques [3, 4, 5, 6]. Both approaches relay on traversing a very large parameter space (with thousands to millions of model instances), but utilize diametrically different ways to accomplish that. In both cases, however, entire collections of biologically realistic models are generated, whose neural activity characteristics can then be cataloged and studied using a database [1, 2]. The tutorial covers “tips and tricks,” as well as various pitfalls in all stages of model construction, large‐scale simulations on high performance computing clusters [S2], database construction and analysis of neural data, along with a discussion about the strengths and weaknesses of the two parameter search techniques. We will review software implementations for each technique: PANDORA Matlab Toolbox [7][S1] for the brute force method and NeRvolver (i.e., evolver of nerve cells) for evolutionary algorithms. PANDORA was used in recent projects for tuning models of rat globus pallidus neurons [2][M1], lobster pyloric network calcium sensors [8][M2], leech heart interneurons [9][M3,S3] and hippocampal O‐LM interneurons (Skinner Lab, TWRI/UHN and Univ. Toronto). NeRvolver is a prototype of a computational intelligence‐based system for automated construction, tuning, and analysis of neuronal models, which is currently under development in the Computational Intelligence and Bio (logical) informatics Laboratory at Delaware State University [10]. Through the utilization of computational intelligence methods (i.e., Multi‐Objective Evolutionary Algorithms and Fuzzy Logic), the NeRvolver system generates classification rules describing biological phenomena discovered during the process of model creation or tuning. Thus in addition to producing neuronal models, NeRvolver provides–via such rules–insights into the functioning of the biological neurons being modeled. In the tutorial, we will present basic functionalities of the system and demonstrate how to analyze the results returned by the software. We will allocate enough time for Q&A and if participants bring a laptop pre‐loaded with Matlab, they can follow some of our examples. *Lecturers/Organizers:* Cengiz Günay, Anca Doloc-Mihu (Emory University, USA) Vladislav Sekulić (University of Toronto, Canada), Tomasz G. Smolinski (Delaware State University, USA) *References * [1] Astrid A. Prinz, Cyrus P. Billimoria, and Eve Marder. Alternative to hand‐tuning conductance‐based models: Construction and analysis of databases of model neurons. J Neurophysiol, 90:3998–4015, 2003. [2] Cengiz Günay, Jeremy R. Edgerton, and Dieter Jaeger. Channel density distributions explain spiking variability in the globus pallidus: A combined physiology and computer simulation database approach. J. Neurosci., 28(30):7476–91, July 2008. [3] Pablo Achard and Erik De Schutter. Complex parameter landscape for a complex neuron model. PLoS Comput Biol, 2(7):794–804, Jul 2006. [4] Tomasz G. Smolinski and Astrid A. Prinz. Computational intelligence in modeling of biological neurons: A case study of an invertebrate pacemaker neuron. In Proceedings of the International Joint Conference on Neural Networks, pages 2964–2970, Atlanta, GA, 2009. [5] Tomasz G. Smolinski and Astrid A. Prinz. Multi‐objective evolutionary algorithms for model neuron parameter value selection matching biological behavior under different simulation scenarios. BMC Neuroscience, 10(Suppl 1):P260, 2009. [6] Damon G. Lamb and Ronald L. Calabrese. Correlated conductance parameters in leech heart motor neurons contribute to motor pattern formation. PLoS One, 8(11):e79267, 2013. [7] Cengiz Günay, Jeremy R. Edgerton, Su Li, Thomas Sangrey, Astrid A. Prinz, and Dieter Jaeger. Database analysis of simulated and recorded electrophysiological datasets with PANDORA’s Toolbox. Neuroinformatics, 7(2):93–111, 2009. [8] Cengiz Günay and Astrid A. Prinz. Model calcium sensors for network homeostasis: Sensor and readout parameter analysis from a database of model neuronal networks. J Neurosci, 30:1686–1698, Feb 2010. NIHMS176368,PMC2851246. [9] Anca Doloc‐Mihu and Ronald L. Calabrese. A database of computational models of a half‐center oscillator for analyzing how neuronal parameters influence network activity. J Biol Phys, 37(3):263–283, Jun 2011. [10] Emlyne Forren, Myles Johnson‐Gray, Parth Patel, and Tomasz G. Smolinski. Nervolver: a computational intelligence‐based system for automated construction, tuning, and analysis of neuronal models. BMC Neuroscience, 13(Suppl 1):P36, 2012. -Cengiz -- Cengiz Gunay Postdoctoral Fellow, Dept. of Biology Visiting Faculty, Dept. of Math & CS Emory University cgunay(a)emory.edu http://www.biology.emory.edu/research/Prinz/Cengiz/

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Announcement: GENESIS 2.4 beta tutorial at CNS
by Hugo Cornelis July 23, 2014

July 23, 2014

This is a public announcement of the GENESIS-2.4 tutorial at the Computational Neuroscience meeting (CNS) in Quebec City and the official public beta release of GENESIS 2.4. This new release includes support for spike-timing dependent plasticity in large networks of multicompartmental cells, bug fixes, comes with new python utilities and tutorial materials. The "Ultimate GENESIS Tutorial Distribution", included in this release, contains updated course materials for the tutorial Constructing biologically realistic neuron and network models with GENESIS. The tutorial brings together material that is available as separate downloads from the GENESIS web site and through the GENESIS Users Group. It includes several simulator-independent tutorials on biologically realistic neural modeling, as well as both tutorial and research simulations that have been implemented with GENESIS. The latest version of this GENESIS tutorial distribution will be available at http://genesis-sim.org/GENESIS/UGTD.html. The GENESIS tutorial at the CNS meeting is introductory and aimed at people who are new to or have only elementary knowledge about the GENESIS-2 simulator, as well as those who have used GENESIS in the past and would like to learn of new developments in cortical network modeling with GENESIS. * introduction and overview ** Why are we doing this? ** resources ** installation and configuration overview * single neuron modeling and visualization * debugging model and script * fast simulations with hsolve * network modeling * spike-timing dependent plasticity During the last hour of the tutorial, I will show in detail how to technically debug models, scripts and source code, at various levels of implementation. The latest news can always be found at http://genesis-sim.org/GENESIS/ -- Hugo -- Hugo Cornelis Ph.D. GENESIS-3 -- lead architect http://www.genesis-sim.org/ Neurospaces Project Architect http://www.neurospaces.org/

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Brian tutorial at CNS meeting in Québec City
by Marcel Stimberg July 23, 2014

July 23, 2014

**Brian tutorial at CNS meeting in Québec City** Everyone interested in simulating spiking neural networks is invited to join us for a tutorial on the "Brian simulator": 9am-4.30pm, Saturday, 26th July 2014 in Québec City The tutorial is part of the OCNS meeting's tutorials (http://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2014-tutorials) and takes place in room 2101 of the Québec City Conference Center. It will demonstrate the use of Brian 2, a major update of the Brian simulator which further improves its flexibility and adds exciting new code generation abilities. We will provide an introduction to Brian in the morning (no prior knowledge of Brian necessary) and discuss more advanced topics (including the new code generation features) in the afternoon. We recommend participants to install the current version of Brian 2 beforehand; installation instructions, the schedule and additional material can be found here: http://briansimulator.org/brian-tutorial-at-cns-2014/ Best regards, Marcel Stimberg

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Faculty Position in Computational Neuroscience at the University of California, Irvine
by Jeff Krichmar July 22, 2014

July 22, 2014

Dear Computational Neuroscientists, The following job position may be of interest to many of you. ************************** University of California, Irvine Faculty Position in Computational Neuroscience The Department of Cognitive Sciences (www.cogsci.uci.edu) at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) invites applications for a faculty position at the Associate or Full Professor level. We are especially interested in candidates who use mathematical, computational, or robotics approaches to study the neural basis of cognition in any of these areas: (1) vision, hearing, and attention; (2) memory and decision-making; (3) learning and development; (4) language. Applicants whose research relates to human behavior are preferred. A strong record of publications and extramural funding is essential. Exceptional candidates at the Assistant Professor level will also be considered. The online application includes: A cover letter, CV, research and teaching statements, 3 recent publications, and contact information for 3-5 referees. Interested candidates can apply for the position at: https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/apply/JPF02452. To ensure full consideration, please complete the application by November 15, 2014. The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to excellence through diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy. ************************** Best regards, Jeff Krichmar Department of Cognitive Sciences 2328 Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway University of California, Irvine Irvine, CA 92697-5100 jkrichma(a)uci.edu http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~jkrichma

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