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Postdoc/programmer position at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology
by Erik De Schutter Jan. 17, 2019

Jan. 17, 2019

The Computational Neuroscience unit (https://groups.oist.jp/cnu) at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Japan has an opening for a postdoctoral researcher or technician in software development and computational modeling of stochastic neuronal reaction-diffusion processes and 3D modeling of neurons at the submicron level. Initial duration is two years with an option to extend. The hired postdoctoral researcher or technician is expected to make valuable contributions to the STEPS project (http://steps.sourceforge.net) in two ways: 1) by researching molecular neuronal processes and designing novel techniques and routines for accurate computational modeling of such systems, and 2) contributing to realistic applications of the new techniques in biological modeling studies. In performing these tasks, the candidate is expected to contribute to publications that are either based on theory and computational techniques, or geared more towards answering real biological questions through computational modeling. As such the ideal candidate will have a scientific background but also possess good programming skills. There will be many opportunities to interact with other STEPS developers in our lab and also other researchers working on related cerebellar projects, and also to collaborate on STEPS development with the Blue Brain Project, EPFL, Geneva. Competences: For the postdoctoral position a recent PhD is required in a relevant discipline such as neuroscience, molecular biology, biophysics, biochemistry, and for a technician a masters degree is required in a similar discipline or computer science. For either position, we require a talented programmer with experience in C++ and Python. In satisfying these criteria, it is expected that the candidate has some experience of modeling neuronal or other biological processes computationally, but this is not essential if the candidate has a strong enough interest in moving into the field. Fluent English conversation and writing skills are required. Benefits / Offer: A competitive salary and relocation package are offered. This an ideal position to gain experience in a prominent computational neuroscience lab. Contributions of technicians are honored by authorship on relevant publications. Please contact Prof. Erik De Schutter (erik(a)oist.jp) for inquiries.

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BindsNET - A Machine Learning Spiking Neural Networks Library in Python
by Hananel Hazan Jan. 17, 2019

Jan. 17, 2019

[Apologies for cross-postings] Dear colleagues, It is our pleasure to introduce the release of the python package BindsNET <https://github.com/Hananel-Hazan/bindsnet>and its companion paper in Frontiers in Bioinformatics “BindsNET: A Machine Learning-Oriented Spiking Neural Networks Library in Python <http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fninf.2018.00089>”. BindsNET is a python package to simulate a spiking neuronal network using a GPU. The framework is easy and well in line with Python, NumPy and PyTorch standard that runs on CPU’s/GPU’s. BindsNet will serve both the novel researcher and the seasoned programmer wanting to perform rapid prototyping prior to diving into hardware implementation. To achieve maximum performance and flexibility, BindsNET re-purposes the powerful and flexible PyTorch <http://pytorch.org/> library. By wrapping around PyTorch we avoid "reinventing the wheel" by reusing it's function and sub-modules for the spiking neuronal networks computational needs. For more details on performance, usability and code examples please see the Frontier paper <http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fninf.2018.00089> as well in the GitHub repository <https://github.com/Hananel-Hazan/bindsnet>. BindsNet welcomes researcher, students and neuro-scientists to both utilize and contribute to this leading-edge toolbox. *Happy spiking* Thanks Hananel Hazan Postdoctoral Research Associate BINDS Lab, UMass Amherst, USA http://Hananel.Hazan.org.il

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Master in Brain and Cognition, Barcelona
by Ruben Moreno Bote Jan. 16, 2019

Jan. 16, 2019

Dear Comp-neuro members, The Master in Brain and Cognition being offered at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain (*http://www.upf.edu/mbc/ <http://www.upf.edu/mbc/>*) opens the rolling application period (final deadline is June 2019). The core of the master's programme is composed of the research groups at UPF's Center for Brain and Cognition (*http://cbc.upf.edu <http://cbc.upf.edu/>*). In this email, we emphasize the possibility of participation of outstanding candidates with strong quantitative background, such as physics, mathematics or machine learning eager to learn about computational neuroscience. Candidates with these backgrounds could perform research activity with the following experts in computational neuroscience: Gustavo Deco (http://cns.upf.edu/) Albert Compte (http://complab.fcrb.es/complab/pres) Rubén Moreno-Bote (https://portal.upf.edu/web/ruben-moreno-bote) Overall, the groups participating at the Master are directed by renowned scientists in areas such as computational neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, psycholinguistics, vision, multisensory perception, human development and comparative cognition http://cbc.upf.edu/node/498 Students will be exposed to the ongoing research projects at the Center for Brain and Cognition and will be integrated in one of its main research lines, where they will conduct original research for their final project. Please visit the Master’s web page or contact mbc(a)upf.edu for further information. Scientific-related questions such as fit of quantitative backgrounds can be consulted to Rubén Moreno-Bote, ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu

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Systems Neuroscience Spring School 2019, 3/10-13, Kyoto, Japan
by Hidetoshi Urakubo Jan. 16, 2019

Jan. 16, 2019

Dear members of Comp-neuro mailing list, Below please find the announcement of Systems Neuroscience Spring School 2019, 3/10-13, Kyoto, Japan. We look forward to your applications and recommendations. The full advertisement is available below. Hidetoshi Urakubo ============================================== Shin Ishii Laboratory, Department of Systems Science, Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University Yoshida-Honmachi 36-1, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501 Japan Phone: +81-75-753-4908 Fax: +81-75-753-4907 Email: urakubo-h(a)sys.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp ============================================== [Announcement of the Systems Neuroscience Spring School 2019] Systems Neuroscience is a field of science that seeks to understand the architecture of the nervous system at multiple scales ranging from molecular level through behavioural level. SNSS2019 will provide chances to learn the frontiers of the systems neurobiology from six world's leading scientists with masteries in wide variety of subjects, including mathematical modelling, fundamental biology, and nano-technology based measurement and instrumentation techniques. This year's theme is “Statics and Dynamics of Neural Systems", and the conference features exciting talks with particular focus on the large-scale anatomy of the brain, behavioral experiments using latest multi-electrode recording techniques, and their theoretical backgrounds. The school is particularly intended for young scientists, and there will be active discussions throughout the session. Participants are encouraged to prepare a poster presentation to introduce their research to the community. ---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o---o--- [Date] March 10 (Sun) - 13 (Wed), 2019. The preliminary seminar at March 10 is only for students. [Place] Coop-in Kyoto (Kyoto, Japan) [Sponsors] Japanese Neural Network Society Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas “Brain information dynamics underlying multi-area interconnectivity and parallel processing” Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development “Brain Mapping by Integrated Neurotechnologies for Disease Studies” [Registration Deadline] February 20th, 2019 [Lecturer] (alphabetical order) Kenneth Harris, Ph.D. UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology Michael Hawrylycz, Ph.D. Allen Institute for Brain Science Valentin Nägerl, Ph.D. University of Bordeaux Atsushi Nambu, M.D, Ph.D. National Institute for Physiological Sciences Sang Wan Lee, Ph.D. KAIST Tetsuo Yamamori, Ph.D. RIKEN Center for Brain Science [Homepage] http://ishiilab.jp/SNSS/SNSS2019/ - Please confirm the details of the application. [Contact information] snss2019(a)sys.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp [Program committees] Ken Nakae, Kyoto University Hidetoshi Urakubo, Kyoto University Hiroshi Higashi, Kyoto University Yasuhiro Tanaka, University of Tokyo Hideaki Shimazaki, Kyoto University [Director] Shin Ishii, Kyoto University

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CNS*2019 Call for Abstracts and Registration Open
by Sharon Crook Jan. 16, 2019

Jan. 16, 2019

CNS*2019 Call for Abstracts Organization for Computational Neurosciences (OCNS) 28th Annual Meeting Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain July 13-17, 2019 Local Organizers: Alex Roxin, Klaus Wimmer, Albert Compte, Jaime de la Rocha, Gemma Huguet Ramon The main meeting begins the evening of Saturday July 13 and runs through Tuesday July 16. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Saturday July 13) and followed by workshops (Tuesday July 16 mixed with the main meeting and Wednesday July 17 workshops only). Invited Keynote Speakers: Ed Bullmore, University of Cambridge Kenji Doya, Okinawa Institute for Science and Technology Mavi Sanchez-Vives, Universitat de Barcelona Ila Fiete, University of Texas Registration and abstract submission are open. Abstract submission deadline: March 4, 2019. Note that one of the authors must register as sponsoring author for the main meeting before abstract submission. In case the abstract is not accepted for presentation, the registration fee will be refunded. Submitted abstracts are used for creating the program and for publication. Please follow the formatting guidelines on the submission site. Travel awards are available for student and postdoc members of OCNS. Please apply using the checkbox on the abstract submission form and note that an extended abstract is required when applying for a travel award or oral presentation format. Registration: https://ocns.memberclicks.net/index.php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mcid=form_259… Abstract Submission: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019-abstract-submission Workshop proposals also are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019-call-for-workshops For up-to-date conference information, please visit: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019-quick -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OCNS is the international member-based society for computational neuroscientists. Become a member to be eligible for travel awards and more. Visit our website for more information: http://www.cnsorg.org

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New research topic in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience: “Information Processing in the Cerebellum"
by Conor Houghton Jan. 15, 2019

Jan. 15, 2019

We would like to let you know about a new research topic in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience: “Information Processing in the Cerebellum": https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/9115/information-processing-in-… The aim is to provide a forum through which leading experts in the field can share both experimental and theoretical insights into the neural dynamics of the cerebellum at levels spanning ions, cells, microcircuits and the interaction of the cerebellum with other areas of the central nervous system. We welcome contributions, the deadline for titles is 28 February 2019 and full manuscripts, 31 May 2019. With best wishes, Conor Houghton Richard Apps Nadia Cerminara Phillipe Isolde

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PhD / postdoc position "Risk-sensitive choice and reinforcement learning under uncertainty"
by Obermayer, Klaus, Prof. Dr. Jan. 15, 2019

Jan. 15, 2019

Dear moderator, would you be so kind to post the job announcement below? Best regards Klaus Obermayer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Research Assistant (PhD / PostDoc position) Neural Information Processing Group Technische Universität Berlin Berlin, Germany Risk-sensitive choice and reinforcement learning under uncertainty Salary level: TV-L 13 (100%) Duration: 3 years Starting date: April 1st, 2019 Application deadline: February 15th, 2019 (but later applications may also be considered) Working field The successful candidate will join a DFG funded project (with Co-PI Dirk Ostwald, Freie Universität Berlin) which combines computational modelling with behavioral and fMRI experiments. The goal is to better understand human decision making and reward-based learning under perceptual uncertainty. The computational framework generalizes the risk-sensitive MDP approach of Yun et al. 2014 (Neural Comput. 26, 1298ff) to a POMDP-based behavioral modelling framework. Planned experiments address response time behavior and neural reinforcement learning processes under perceptual risk. The work program can be biased either towards computational or experimental work depending on the qualifications of the candidate. Qualifications Successfully completed university degree in a subject relevant to the work program; very good programming and English language skills; solid background in decision making and reward-based learning on a theoretical and / or experimental level; experience with computational modelling and the model-based analysis of behavioral and fMRI data is desirable. How to apply: Please send your application with the usual documents (CV, letter of motivation, transcripts of records, certificates, and the names of two persons who can provide recommendation letters) to Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer (FG Neuronale Informationsverarbeitung, Sekr. MAR 5-6, Marchstr. 23, 10587 Berlin) preferably by e-mail (klaus.obermayer(a)tu-berlin.de) Please send copies only. Original documents will not be returned.

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Bernstein Conference 2019 in Berlin: Call for Workshop Proposals
by Kerstin Schwarzwaelder Jan. 15, 2019

Jan. 15, 2019

The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience<https://www.bernstein-network.de/en/start_page> invites proposals for Satellite Workshops directly preceding the Bernstein Conference 2019<http://www.bernstein-conference.de/> in Berlin. ************************************************************** Important Dates: Satellite Workshops: September 17 - 18, 2019 Main Bernstein Conference: September 18 - 20, 2019 Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: March 27, 2019, 3 pm CET (Deadline will not be extended!) Notification of Workshop acceptance: April 2019 Special in 2019: The Conference on Cognitive Computational Neuroscience (CCN)<https://ccneuro.org/> will be held back-to back with the Bernstein Conference on September 13 - 16. ************************************************************** The Bernstein Conference is the largest annual single-track Computational Neuroscience conference in Europe. It hosts pre-conference workshops which provide a stage to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches and challenges in Computational Neuroscience and related fields. Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster debate, rather than a mere series of talks. The selection criteria for workshop proposals will include scientific excellence, topical relevance and gender diversity. Satellite Workshop Schedule: September 17, 2019, 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm September 18, 2019, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm Workshop proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. Workshop Costs – Financial Support: All organizers and speakers of accepted workshops will receive a waiver for the workshop fee. Organizers of accepted workshops additionally receive a waiver for the main conference. Coffee break catering will be provided. Up to 10 selected workshops can receive financial support up to 1.500,00 € each. Instructions for Workshop Proposal Preparation: Workshop proposals must contain: 1) Workshop Title 2) Concise description of workshop topic 3) List of potential speakers indicating speaker commitment 4) Optional: a comment on how the organizers plan to achieve gender diversity among speakers Please use the Workshop Proposal Form that can be downloaded here: www.bernstein-network.de/en/bernstein-conference/2019/satellite-workshops<http://www.bernstein-network.de/en/bernstein-conference/2019/satellite-work…> Deadline for submission of Workshop Proposals: March 27, 2019, 3 pm CET (Deadline will not be extended!) For further information about the conference, please visit the conference website www.bernstein-conference.de<http://www.bernstein-conference.de> Contact: bernstein.conference(at)fz-juelich.de We are looking forward to seeing you in Berlin! Workshop Selection Committee: Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Workshop Chair) Tim Vogels (Workshop Vice Chair) Danielle Bassett Alexander Borst Alain Destexhe Tim Gollisch Máté Lengyel Stephanie Palmer Elad Schneidman (Program Vice Chair) Susanne Schreiber (Program Chair) Terry Sejnowski Sara Solla Henning Sprekeler (Conference Chair and Host) Gina Turrigiano -- Dr. Kerstin Schwarzwälder Scientific Coordination / Management Officer Please note: Our email addresses have changed. Please use k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience | Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Branch Office of the Forschungszentrum Jülich at the University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9A | 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: (+49) 0761 203 9589 mail: k.schwarzwaelder(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:k.schwarzwaelder@fz-juelich.de> web: www.nncn.de<http://www.nncn.de> Twitter: NNCN_Germany<https://twitter.com/NNCN_Germany> YouTube: Bernstein TV<https://www.youtube.com/user/BernsteinNetwork> Facebook: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.facebook.com/BernsteinNetwork/> LinkedIn: Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience, Germany<https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/bernstein-network-computational-neuroscien…> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Dr. Karl Eugen Huthmacher Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Post-doctoral fellow in PET imaging analysis
by Sean Hill Jan. 11, 2019

Jan. 11, 2019

The Early Psychosis Imaging Research Group at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Toronto, Canada) is recruiting a Post-doctoral Fellow (MD / or PhD) to join the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) at the Research Imaging Center, at the Center of Addiction and Mental Health (RIC-CAMH). Minimum qualifications are a doctoral degree in a health related field (e.g.: neuroscience, psychology, biology) with significant imaging experience or MD degree with proved research background. Successful candidates should already have papers published in international peer reviewed journals, or grants or research awards in these specific imaging research areas. The successful candidate will have considerable expertise in computational and statistical methods, and a good working knowledge of brain anatomy. Experience in working with clinical populations is an asset. Good oral and written communication skills are required. The project will focus on a brain PET investigation of the neurochemical events occurring during psychosis and its prodrome and their relationship brain correlates (structure, MRS, DTI, etc). CAMH is Canada’s largest mental Health and addiction teaching and research hospital and is affiliated with the University of Toronto. Send letter of interest outlining experience and CV Romina.mizrahi(a)camhpet.ca<mailto:Romina.mizrahi@camhpet.ca> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. AVIS DE CONFIDENTIALITÉ : Ce message électronique, ainsi que tout fichier qui y est joint, est reserve à l'usage exclusif du destinataire visé et peut contenir des renseignements confidentiels et privilégiés. Toute lecture, utilisation, divulgation ou distribution non autorisée est interdite. Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire visé, veuillez en aviser l'expéditeur par retour de courriel et détruire toutes les copies du message original.

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Call for Papers: The Embodied Brain
by Peters, J (PSYCHOLOGY) Jan. 11, 2019

Jan. 11, 2019

******EXTENDED PAPER SUBMISSION DEADLINE******** "The Embodied Brain: Computational Mechanisms of Integrated Sensorimotor Interactions with a Dynamic Environment" https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/8147/the-embodied-brain-computa… Topic Editors: Gustavo Deco, Rainer Goebel, Mario Senden, Florian Röhrbein, Judith Peters Participating journals: Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience Frontiers in Neurorobotics Frontiers in ICT Frontiers in Robotics and AI Keywords: Sensorimotor integration, embodiment, neurorobotics, deep neural networks, dynamical systems Abstract Submission Deadline: 1-2-2019 Article Submission Deadline: 15-4-2019 **************************************************

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PhD/postdocs spike pattern analysis/methodology
by Francesco Battaglia Jan. 9, 2019

Jan. 9, 2019

Three positions are available (preferred start: first half 2019, contract duration, 2-4 years) for PhD students and postdocs, funded by a Dutch NWO Exact sciences TOP grant. The researchers will develop methods for the unsupervised pattern detection in neural data based on Optimal Transport theory, developing on the idea described in the paper by Grossberger et al. PLoS Comp. Biol. 14(7): e1006283 (2018) We look for a combination of expertise, ideally one applied mathematician, one computer scientist/machine learning specialist, and one computational neuroscientists. Positions will be awarded at the postdoc or PhD level, depending on the best available candidate. The researchers will be embedded in the Memory Dynamics Lab (co-leaders, FP Battaglia and L Genzel), a rapidly growing group active in the exploration of mechanisms of memory, and will have access to large datasets from behavioral neurophysiology experiments (large scale ensemble ) from the group, currently further funded by a Marie Sklodowska Curie "M-GATE" Doctoral Network coordinated by FP Battaglia, a NWO VIDI grant to L Genzel and other public and private grants, and counting eight core members active in experimental work. Data obtained via external collaborations will also be available. Dr. Martin Vinck (ESI Frankfurt) and Dr. Paul Tiesinga (Donders Institute) will be key collaborators on this project. The group is embedded in the Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behavior at the Radboud University in Nijmegen, sporting a large concentration of top theoretical and experimental neuroscience work. To apply, please send a CV, a letter of motivation (2 page max. length) and the name and contact info for two possible referees to Francesco Battaglia f.battaglia(a)donders.ru.nl <mailto:f.battaglia@donders.ru.nl>. Requests for information go to the same address. Applications reaching us before February, 28th 2019 will be given full consideration.

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postdoctoral fellowships at the Theoretical Neuroscience Group, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Higher School of Economics, Moscow.
by boris gutkin Jan. 9, 2019

Jan. 9, 2019

Higher School of Economics (HSE, Moscow) is pleased to announce a new post-doctoral post at the Theoretical Neuroscience Group <http://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/Theoretical/> (TNG) that applies computational and mathematical approaches to understanding neural function and cognition. Research interests of the TNG at the Centre for Cognition and Decision Making <http://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre> are wide ranging, carried out in collaboration with the experimental labs at the Center. Current research topics include computational psychiatry, computational neuroeconomics, information processing in neurons and circuits, as well as role of oscillations in cognition. The candidate will have the opportunity to further define and expand the Group’s research programme. We are seeking highly qualified and motivated candidate with backgrounds in quantitative disciplines: applied mathematics, physics, computer science or engineering. Knowledge of biology, neuroscience and ability to work with data is highly desired. Candidates will be trained in model building, analysis and will be offered advanced training in neuroscience and cognitive psychology. Candidates will have an opportunity to develop independent research projects and collaborations under the direction of the group leading scientists. The TNG is a structural part of the HSE’s Centre for Cognition & Decision Making <https://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/> with ample collaboration opportunities within the Centre with other research groups, both within Russia and internationally. This new international group is tightly linked with the Group for Neural Theory at the Ecole Normale Superior <http://iec-lnc.ens.fr/group-for-neural-theory/?lang=en> in Paris, where research internships and visiting positions can be made available. The job involves: working under the direct supervision of Boris Gutkin, head of the Theoretical Neuroscience Group. participants are encouraged to pursue their own research in parallel with working on research projects in collaboration with other groups in the Center for Cognition and Decision Making and the Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience. participation in organization of the events and other contribution to the Lab’s development public presentations of candidate’s own research to the researchers in the field and the broader academic community some teaching is encouraged, though not required. Requirements: a PhD from an international research university in such fields as: neuroscience, applied mathematics, physics, engineering a strong background in mathematical and computational modelling in neuroscience. ability to work in a team, fluent English relevant experience is an asset although not required General conditions for Post-Doctoral Research positions can be found here <https://iri.hse.ru/faq_pd>. Appointments will be normally made for one year. A CV and research statement should be submitted via online application form <https://www.hse.ru/expresspolls/poll/229374241.html> and two letters of recommendation should be submitted by the referees directly to fellowship(a)hse.ru <mailto:fellowship@hse.ru> by February 15, 2019. Please note that direct applications to TNG may not be reviewed. About HSE HSE <http://hse.ru/en> is a young, dynamic, fast-growing Russian research university providing unique research opportunities. For more information about HSE, please visit: Centre for Cognition & Decision Making <https://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/> or contact Boris Gutkin (boris.gutkin(a)gmail.com) directly.

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Call for applications - Science of Intelligence Berlin - Cluster of Excellence
by Sprekeler, Henning Jan. 8, 2019

Jan. 8, 2019

*Early notice* Call for applications - Science of Intelligence Berlin - Cluster of Excellence 11 PhD and 12 Postdoc positions Cross-disciplinary research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, control, robotics, computer vision, behavioral biology, cognitive science, psychology, educational science, neuroscience, and philosophy. Starting dates: Summer / Fall 2019 Duration: 3 years Salary level: TV-L 13, 100% What are the principles of intelligence, shared by all forms of intelligence, no matter whether artificial or biological, whether robot, computer program, human, or animal? And how can we apply these principles to create intelligent technology? Answering these questions - in an ethically responsible way - is the central scientific objective of the new Cluster of Excellence Science of Intelligence (www.scioi.de<http://www.scioi.de>). Researchers from a large number of analytic and synthetic disciplines - artificial intelligence, machine learning, control, robotics, computer vision, behavioral biology, cognitive science, psychology, educational science, neuroscience, and philosophy - join forces to create a multi-disciplinary research program across universities and research institutes in Berlin. Our approach is driven by the insight, that any method, concept, and theory must demonstrate its merits by contributing to the intelligent behavior of a synthetic artifact, such as a robot or a computer program. These artifacts represent the shared “language” across disciplines, enabling the validation, combination, transfer, and extension of research results. Thus we expect to attain cohesion among disciplines, which currently produce their own theories and empirical findings about aspects of intelligence. Interdisciplinary research projects have been defined which combine analytic and synthetic research and which address key aspects of individual, social, and collective intelligence. In addition the Science of Intelligence graduate program promotes the cross-disciplinary education of young scientists on a Master, PhD, and postdoctoral level. All PhD students associated with the cluster are expected to join the Science of Intelligence doctoral program (www.scioi.de/education/doctoral-program<http://www.scioi.de/education/doctoral-program>). The cluster welcomes applications from all disciplines that contribute to intelligence research. Applications shall be uploaded through the application portal (www.scioi.de/call-for-applications/application-process<http://www.scioi.de/call-for-applications/application-process>), where details of the individual research projects (www.scioi.de/call-for-applications/open-positions<http://www.scioi.de/call-for-applications/open-positions>) are also available. Please submit your applications by 15 February 2019 in order to receive full consideration. Applicants wishing to apply for several projects need to upload separate applications for each project.

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Call for Applications: Summer School on Intrinsically Motivated Open-Ended Learning (IMOL): June 27 - July 3
by Jochen Triesch Jan. 8, 2019

Jan. 8, 2019

We invite applications from PhD students and post-docs to participate in our summer school: "Intrinsically Motivated Open-Ended Learning (IMOL)" Place: Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies, Germany Dates: June 27 to July 3, 2019 Web: http://www.goal-robots.eu/announcements/events/summer-school-2019-2/ *Participation is free of charge, but participants must cover their own travel and lodging.* Topics will include: - Intrinsic Motivations - Architectures for open-ended learning - Deep reinforcement learning - Multi-task reinforcement learning - Curriculum learning - Goal self-generation - Goal-based skill learning - Modularity and hierarchies - Ethics of open-ended learning List of confirmed speakers (more to be added): Gianluca Baldassarre (organizer) Marc Bellemare Luc Berthouze Stephane Doncieux Kenji Doya Petar Kormushev Georg Martius Kathryn Merrick (organizer) Yukie Nagai Nicolas Navarro-Guerrero Kevin O'Regan Daniel Polani Elmar Rueckert Vieri Giuliano Santucci (organizer) Bertram E. Shi Céline Teulière Jochen Triesch (organizer) How to Apply: 1. Prepare a letter of intent and CV (single PDF) 2. Arrange for a letter for recommendation to be sent by your supervisor Both should be sent to: triesch(a)fias.uni-frankfurt.de by January 27th, 2019. The school is organized with funding from the European GOAL-Robots project: http://www.goal-robots.eu Happy learning, Jochen Triesch -- Prof. Dr. Jochen Triesch Johanna Quandt Research Professor Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies http://fias.uni-frankfurt.de/~triesch/ Tel: +49 (0)69 798-47531 Fax: +49 (0)69 798-47611

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Seeking group leaders in computational neuroscience
by Daniel Choquet Jan. 7, 2019

Jan. 7, 2019

Dear colleague, I would like to seek your help in identifying outstanding candidates for our ongoing call for group leaders in our Neuroscience department. Please note our special emphasis in seeking group leaders in computational neuroscience. Could you please circulate this add ? I thank you in advance for your help and wish you a very happy and fruitful year 2019 Best wishes Daniel Choquet Director of the BRAIN cluster of excellence Group Leader Position in Neuroscience, Bordeaux, France Neuroscience in Bordeaux, France, has grown over the last 10 years to become one of the largest scientific communities in the field of Neuroscience in Europe. Encompassing a total of 650 international scientists organized in 6 main independent research centers, 10 core facilities and the Bordeaux School of Neuroscience, the neuroscience in Bordeaux, France, constitutes an exciting international environment with worldwide recognition in the fields of addiction, brain imaging, synapse biology, memory and dementia, sleep, attention and cognition, movement disorders, pain and sensory functions, pathophysiology of brain development, nutrition and neuro-inflammation. We are seeking to recruit new Group Leaders at junior or midcareer level. We offer attractive start-up packages and state-of-the-art laboratories and infrastructures to young group leaders, typically as a first independent position specialised in non-human primate (patho)physiology of neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer Disease & Parkinson Disease), or in chemical biology, biosensors, structural biology, physical chemistry of molecular assemblies, cell biology and synapse physiology, modelling from molecular and cellular mechanism to neural circuits, all for neuroscience applications. Two major site grants enable to position Bordeaux Neurocampus as a foremost center to meet the challenges of brain research. The Neurocampus project, fully supported by the University of Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM and the Aquitaine Regional Government, consists into the extension of Neurocentre Magendie (+ 8 000 m2) and of the construction of a 12 000m2 new building which hosts laboratories, animal facilities and the Bordeaux Imaging Center. It also supports the installation of new international research teams, start-up companies and medical patients' association. We expect candidates to develop a competitive, independent research program in his/her respective field, local collaboration and integration into the Bordeaux neuroscience community. Applicants should hold a PhD or MD/PhD degree, with a record of outstanding training and exceptional research potential. Applications from abroad are expressly welcome. We strive to increase the proportion of female staff and expressly encourages qualified women to apply. Interested candidates should submit : <http://bit.ly/neurocampus-application> http://bit.ly/neurocampus-application -a complete CV, - a description of research interests (achievements and projects, max 5 pages), - Name and contact of three references who will be independently asked to provide support letters The deadline for applications is February 28th, 2019. Preselection of the candidates will occur in spring before onsite interview in June 2019. For additional information, please contact <mailto:applicants-neurocampus@u-bordeaux.fr> : applicants-neurocampus(a)u-bordeaux.fr

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PhD level - international fellowship
by Vinita Samarasinghe Jan. 7, 2019

Jan. 7, 2019

Prof. Sen Cheng, Institute for Neural Computation at the *Ruhr University Bochum* in Germany, invites applicants for an International Student Fellowship to be awarded through the international research training group “Integration and Representation of Sensory Processes” (SFB 874). The fellowship has a duration of 4 months, after which it could be extended to a *3 year **PhD position* if a good fit with the group is observed. The work will focus on studying the interaction between neocortex and hippocampus using spiking neural network models. The position is part of the project "Theory of the interplay between sensory cortices and hippocampus in memory formation and retrieval", which is funded by the German Research Foundation as part of the collaborative research center SFB 874. The appointment will be initially from 01.03.2019-30.06.2019. Candidates should have an excellent university degree in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, engineering or a related field and be eligible to enroll in a relevant PhD program at the Ruhr University. Competence in mathematical modeling and excellent programming skillsare mandatory. Familiarity with computational neuroscience or computational cognitive modeling would be a further asset. Only candidates who have not previously lived in Germany will be considered. For further information regarding the IRTG fellowship please visit https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sfb874/integrated_research_training_group/fe… The Ruhr University Bochum is home to a vibrant research community in neuroscience and cognitive science. The Institute for Neural Computation is an independent research unit and combines different areas of expertise ranging from experimental and theoretical neuroscience to machine learning and robotics. For further information see www.rub.de/cns <http://www.rub.de/cns>. To apply please send a statement of your motivation and research interests, academic transcripts, and a complete CV to samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de <mailto:samarasinghe@ini.rub.de> in a single PDF file. Please, also request from at least two academic referees that they send letters of reference directly to the same email address. The deadline for applications is 15.01.2019. The Ruhr University Bochum is committed to equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. -- Vinita Samarasinghe M.Sc., M.A. Science Manager Arbeitsgruppe Computational Neuroscience Institut für Neuroinformatik Ruhr-Universität Bochum, NB 3/26 Universitätstr. 150 D-44801 Bochum Tel: +49 (0)234 32 27316 Email: samarasinghe(a)ini.rub.de Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8-11

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Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2019: Apply now
by Erik De Schutter Jan. 7, 2019

Jan. 7, 2019

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2019 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 24 to July 11, 2019 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 24th through July 11th, 2019 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc) only; January 1 - February 2, 2019. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 16th OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and provides partial travel support. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Claudia Clopath (Imperial College, UK) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Tomoki Fukai (OIST) • Wenbiao Gan (New York University, USA) • Geoff Goodhill (University of Queensland, Australia) • Jun Izawa (Tsukuba University, Japan) • Mike Hausser (University College London, UK) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Eve Marder (Brandeis University, USA) • Peggy Series (University of Edinburgh, UK) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Taro Toyoizumi (RIKEN BSI, Japan) • Yoko Yazaki-Sugiyama (OIST) • Yi Zeng (Chinese Academy of Sciences, China)

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Research tech/postdoc position in computational neuroscience (Washington U in St. Louis)
by Carlos R. Ponce Jan. 6, 2019

Jan. 6, 2019

Position available: Computational specialist for neuroscience research (research tech or postdoc) Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri Our laboratory conducts visual neuroscience research using electrophysiology and artificial neural networks. We are looking for candidates with experience in Python and C++, and with interest in deep learning approaches. The ideal candidate will help implement third-party software, working closely with biologists in designing and/or performing experiments. Salary based on experience. Requirements: strong interest in visual neuroscience. Minimum Bachelor’s degree in scientific field, computer science and/or engineering. Experience with Python/C++ programming (Linux/Windows). Preferred but not required: Familiarity with data analysis and statistics,Matlab, coding high-performance computing software (including container technology), optimizing parallelized and GPU-based code. Please send application materials to Carlos R. Ponce (crponce(a)wustl.edu , poncelab.org) including CV with cover letter, and contact information for 2-3 references. If a recent graduate, please send transcripts. Peer-reviewed journal or conference publications a plus.

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Postdoc position jointly at UCSD/CMU (Coleman/Grover labs).
by Pulkit Grover Jan. 6, 2019

Jan. 6, 2019

Postdoctoral position in Coleman lab at UCSD and Grover lab at CMU in theory and data analysis: modeling, monitoring, and modulating the enteric nervous system A postdoc position at the intersection of theoretical and computational neuroscience is available working jointly with the labs of Todd Coleman at UC San Diego and Pulkit Grover at Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA). The team's goal is to develop advanced theoretical techniques, closely with validation in realistic computational models, for noninvasive detection, tracking, and modulation of neural activity of the enteric nervous system. The role of the postdoc will be to lead computational modeling, simulations, and data analysis for these systems. The postdoc will collaborate with information theorists, experimentalists, and clinicians. The postdoc will be based in UCSD, and is expected to travel a few times between UCSD and CMU to learn from the existing approaches and coordinate efforts of the two teams. This is an opportunity to work on a challenging and applicable scientific problem in a highly interdisciplinary and vibrant environment. Requirements: PhD in a related discipline (Engineering, Computer Science, Neuroscience, or Biomedical Engineering) with a strong theoretical and computational record. Background in basic cellular neurophysiology is recommended but not mandatory. The labs are committed to the professional development of the members, making this position a valuable preparation for those interested in academic, industrial or entrepreneurial careers. The position has no mandatory teaching or administrative duties. The ideal start date is Mar 2019, but early applications will also be accepted. The position is initially for 12 months with the possibility of renewal. Compensation will be competitive, and commensurate with relevant experience. Candidates should send a CV, a statement of research experience and interests, expected date of availability, and the contact information for three references to tpcoleman(a)ucsd.edu and pulkit(a)cmu.edu with the subject line “enteric-system postdoc”. Application review will proceed until the position is filled.

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NeuroFedora: A ready to use Free/Open source software platform for neuroscience
by Ankur Sinha Jan. 4, 2019

Jan. 4, 2019

Hello everyone, We would like to announce the NeuroFedora initiative[1] that we have recently begun working on. Our goal is to provide a ready to use, Free/Open source environment for researchers to use, to enable Free/Open Neuroscience[2]. NeuroFedora is based on the Fedora Linux distribution[3] that is part of the RedHat/Scientific Linux/CentOS eco-system. It is still in the early stages, but we already have a few of the commonly used computational neuroscience simulators available for use: - NEST - Genesis - Moose - Brian2 Neuron, PyNN, and a host of other tools are currently being worked upon for inclusion also. More information can be found in the documentation[1]. We welcome feedback, comments, ideas, and discussion to improve NeuroFedora. It is purely a volunteer driven community project, so we welcome contributions in all forms. You can get in touch with us using the communication channels listed here[4]. [1] https://docs.fedoraproject.org/en-US/neurofedora/overview/ [2] http://opensourceforneuroscience.org/ [3] https://getfedora.org/ [4] https://docs.fedoraproject.org/en-US/neurofedora/overview/#_communicating_a… -- Thank you, Regards, On behalf of the NeuroFedora team, Ankur Sinha PhD candidate in computational neuroscience at UH Biocomputation Volunteer at the Free/Open source Fedora project https://ankursinha.in https://biocomputation.herts.ac.uk https://fedoraproject.org/wiki/User:Ankursinha Time zone: Europe/London

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Post-Doc in Social Neuroscience
by Prata, Diana Jan. 4, 2019

Jan. 4, 2019

Happy new job! Two new Post-Doc positions opened at the Biomedical Neuroscience Lab (https://dpratalab.wordpress.com/; PI: Dr Diana Prata, with double affiliation in King’s College London), at the University of Lisbon - for research in human social neuroscience and the oxytocin and the dopamine systems in a highly interdisciplinary 3-year project involving pharmacology, genetics and a range of psychophysiological techniques. Expertise in fMRI and/or EEG highly preferred; and in eye-tracking and SCR favourable. Negotiable salary. Open until 26th of Jan 2019. We look forward to welcoming you!: http://www.eracareers.pt/opportunities/index.aspx?task=global&jobId=106526 Diana Prata, Phd Marie Curie Fellow Principal Investigator (Biomedical Neuroscience Lab), Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, FCUL Visiting Lecturer, IoPPN, King's College London

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Faculty positions in Computational Neuroscience at Imperial College London. Deadline 13 Jan
by Clopath, Claudia Jan. 3, 2019

Jan. 3, 2019

Imperial College London is hiring at the level of Assistant Professor and Associate Professor (in the UK called Lecturers/Senior Lecturers) at the interface between Engineering and Biology broadly speaking, i.e. including Computational Neuroscience. Deadline 13th of January. Original advert: http://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/description/ENG00620/lecturerssenior-lecture…

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Call for applications - 2019 Nengo Summer School
by Peter Blouw Jan. 3, 2019

Jan. 3, 2019

[All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summerschool] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce our 6th annual Nengo summer school on large-scale brain modelling and neuromorphic computing. This two-week school will teach participants to use the Nengo simulation package to build state-of-the-art cognitive and neural models to run both in simulation and on neuromorphic hardware. Summer school participants will be given on-site access to Loihi, Intel’s new neuromorphic research chip [1], and will learn to run high-level applications on Loihi using Nengo! More generally, Nengo provides users with a versatile and powerful environment for designing cognitive and neural systems, and has been used to build what is currently the world's largest functional brain model, Spaun [2], which includes spiking deep learning, reinforcement learning, adaptive motor control, and cognitive control networks. For a look at last year's summer school, check out this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwtYgBB2N6I We welcome applications from all interested graduate students, postdocs, professors, and industry professionals with a relevant background. [1] Davies, et al. (2018). Loihi: A neuromorphic manycore processor with on-chip learning. IEEE Micro. Vol. 38 no. 1 pp. 82-99. [ https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8259423] [2] Eliasmith, C., Stewart T. C., Choo X., Bekolay T., DeWolf T., Tang Y., Rasmussen, D. (2012). A large-scale model of the functioning brain. Science. Vol. 338 no. 6111 pp. 1202-1205. DOI: 10.1126/science.1225266. [ http://compneuro.uwaterloo.ca/files/publications/eliasmith.2012.pdf] ***Application Deadline: February 15, 2019*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on testing hypotheses, modeling neural or cognitive data, implementing specific behavioural functions with neurons, expanding past models, or providing a proof-of-concept of various neural mechanisms. Hands-on tutorials, work on individual or group projects, and talks from invited faculty members will make up the bulk of day-to-day activities. A project demonstration event will be held on the last day of the school, with prizes for strong projects! Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to: - interface Nengo with neuromorphic hardware (e.g. Loihi, SpiNNaker) - build perceptual, motor, and cognitive models using spiking neurons - model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data - use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model - integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models - interface Nengo with cameras and robotic systems - implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models - and much more… Date and Location: June 9th to June 21st, 2019 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit http://www.nengo.ai/summerschool, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form listing required materials. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Peter Blouw (peter.blouw(a)appliedbrainresearch.com) The school is also partly supported by ONR and ABR, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

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PhD in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience (EPSRC funded, 3.5 yrs, Sept 2019 start)
by James Rankin Jan. 3, 2019

Jan. 3, 2019

*PhD in Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience (EPSRC funded, 3.5 yrs, Sept 2019 start)* General information & apply (funding is primarily targeted at UK students): http://www.exeter.ac.uk/studying/funding/award/index.php?id=3386 Project description: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/codebox/phdprojects/Rankin-EPSRC-DTP-Project.pdf *Closing date 7th Jan 2019* This interdisciplinary project will develop computational and mathematical models of the auditory system to understand how complex stimuli like speech are encoded by spiking neurons in the midbrain. The auditory midbrain is a key hub in the auditory processing pathway, functioning as an important junction that relays and shapes neural signals as they ascend towards auditory cortex. Knowledge of the way in which complex sounds, e.g. speech, are encoded in the midbrain is crucial for understanding how dysfunction in the earlier auditory processing pathway (cochlea, auditory nerve, cochlear nucleus) leads to different types of hearing loss (a problem affecting 1 in 6 people in the UK). Working with neural recordings from the auditory midbrain in gerbils, a commonly-used animal for the study of low-frequency hearing, this project will develop mathematical and computational models of the auditory processing pathway. The aim is to understand the different roles of the patterns of inputs to midbrain neurons and their intrinsic response properties (e.g. their spiking rate) in shaping their responses to complex sounds. The project will use a dynamical systems approach to model the intrinsic properties of individual neurons in the midbrain in a biologically plausible way (working with, e.g. adaptive exponential integrate-and-fire neurons or the Hodgkin-Huxley equations). Inputs to these neurons will be based on established cochlear models and the biological details of the auditory nerve and cochlear nucleus. The resulting model will produce firing patterns directly comparable with neural recordings provided by the experimental supervisor. This data will be used to train and parameter fit the model using e.g. Bayesian optimisation or genetic algorithms. The resultant model will have explanatory power for the extent to which midbrain responses are shaped by its inputs from cochlear nucleus. Further, it will make predictions, testable in new experiments, of how midbrain responses will be affected by different dysfunctions of the early auditory system relating to hearing loss. The successful candidate will receive training dynamical systems theory and in the development and analysis of individual neuron and neural network models. An interdisciplinary approach, incorporating known biological details of the auditory processing pathway, will require the candidate to learn the relevant biology and neuroscience along with mathematical and computational techniques. The project will involve working closely with experimental neuroscientists and experimental data. This project provides a unique opportunity to receive training in mathematical modelling in close collaboration with experimentalists using cutting-edge methods recording spikes simultaneously from hundreds of neurons. Experience working on such interdisciplinary projects is highly sought after. Candidates with quantitative backgrounds (mathematics, physics, engineering) and from neuroscience programmes are encouraged to apply. Programming experience, knowledge of dynamical systems theory and experience in biological modelling are a plus. For further information, please contact me at the email address above. *For further information, please contact Dr James Rankin, email j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk <j.a.rankin(a)exeter.ac.uk>* http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/mathematics/staff/jar226

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NIH-funded Postdoctoral Position at the Italian Institute of Technology
by Stefano Panzeri Jan. 3, 2019

Jan. 3, 2019

I am seeking to hire one or more postdoctoral scientists to research with me and my Neural Computation laboratory at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia. The project, funded by a Brain Initiative multi-PI RO1 Grant from the National Institute of Health, will be performed in collaboration with my experimental collaborators Christopher Harvey (Harvard Medical School) and Wei-Chung Lee (Children’s Hospital). The proposed computational research will use data-driven models of recurrent neural networks and information-theoretic methods to analyze functional activity of hundreds of neurons recorded during cognitive tasks, together with anatomical electron-microscopy data collected from the same subjects and brain regions. The aim of the project is to establish novel and firm relationships between the anatomical structure of a cortical microcircuit and its neural population coding function. The laboratory offers a wide range of interdisciplinary expertise in computational neuroscience, including both advanced neural analysis techniques and neural network modeling. The laboratory also offers a thriving, well-funded and ambitious research environment with extensive international collaborations and ample opportunities for advanced training and personal scientific growth. We seek candidates holding a PhD in a numerate or neuroscientific discipline, with a solid computational background and a keen interest in neuroscience. They must be highly motivated and creative individuals who want to work in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary research environment and be willing to interact with both experimental and theoretical neuroscientists. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to conduct research at either the IIT in Italy, or at the IIT outstation at Harvard Medical School, in Boston, depending on the nature of the agreed research and on personal preferences. For representative recent publications from the PI, see: Runyan C. A., et al (2017) Distinct timescales of population coding across cortex, *Nature*: 548: 92-96. Panzeri S., et al (2017) Cracking the neural code for sensory perception by combining statistics, intervention and behaviour. *Neuron* 93: 491-507 Safaai, H., et al (2015) Modelling the effect of Locus Coeruleous firing on single trial cortical state dynamics and sensory processing. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA* 112(41): 12834–12839 Further information about my research can be found at my IIT and Google Scholar web pages: https://www.iit.it/people/stefano-panzeri https://scholar.google.it/citations?user=C-HCQ9cAAAAJ&hl=en Applications (full CV, statement of research interest and name and contact of 2 referees) should be sent by e-mail to stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it, quoting “Postdoctoral position in Computational Neuroscience” in the subject line. The deadline for applications is January 31th, 2019. Applications will be examined until the position is filled. Interested applicants are advised to contact me by email informally *as soon as possible* to discuss about the science and the position informally. Thanks! Stefano Panzeri

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CFP 28th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks ICANN 2019, Sept 17-19, Munich, DE
by Paolo Masulli ENNS Jan. 2, 2019

Jan. 2, 2019

28th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks http://icann2019.org Munich, Germany 17 - 19 September 2019 Special event: BIGCHEM (http://bigchem.eu) final meeting ============================================================ The International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks (ICANN) is the annual flagship conference of the European Neural Network Society (ENNS). In 2019 the Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen - German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH (HMGU) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM) together with the "Big Data in Chemistry" Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network European Industrial Doctorate project (BIGCHEM) organize the 28th ICANN Conference from the 17th to the 19th of September 2019 in Munich, Germany. CONFERENCE TOPICS ICANN 2019 is a dual-track conference featuring tracks in Brain Inspired Computing and Machine Learning and Artificial Neural Networks, 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: Machine Learning: Deep Learning, Neural Network Theory, Neural Network Models, Graphical Models, Bayesian Networks, Kernel Methods, Generative Models, Information Theoretic Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Relational Learning, Dynamical Models Recurrent Networks. Brain Inspired Computing: Cognitive models, Computational Neuroscience, Self-organisation, Reinforcement Learning, Neural Control and Planning, Hybrid Neural-Symbolic Architectures, Neural Dynamics. Neural Applications for: Bioinformatics, Biomedicine, Intelligent Robotics, Neurorobotics, Language Processing, Image Processing, Sensor Fusion, Pattern Recognition, Data Mining, Neural Agents, Brain-Computer Interaction, Neural Hardware, Evolutionary Neural Networks. Special session (BIGCHEM): Big Data analysis in chemistry, chemoinformatics, use of deep learning to predict molecular properties, drug-discovery, modelling and prediction of chemical reaction data, synthetic route prediction, structure generation, molecular dynamics simulations and quantum chemistry. CALL FOR CONTRIBUTED SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATIONS All scientific communications presented at ICANN 2019 will be reviewed and scientifically evaluated by a panel of experts. The conference will feature three categories of communications: - oral communications (15'+5') - poster communications - demonstrations Call for Special Sessions: ICANN2019 organizers cordially invite internationally recognised experts to organise Special Sessions (including workshops and competitions) within the general scope of the conference. Special Session Proposal request should be sent to icann2019(a)bigchem.eu Call for Papers: Authors willing to present original contributions in either oral or poster category may submit: - a proceedings paper manuscript of about 10 - 12 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series with individual DOI - extended abstracts of a maximum length of 2 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series. The number of oral slots is limited. In case the number of requested oral presentations is larger than the available slots the ICANN scientific committee will select which papers will be reassigned to a poster session. This selections will be based on the coherence of the programme and is totally independent of the category of submission. Submission of communications will be online. More details will be made available soon on the conference website: http://icann2019.org IMPORTANT DATES Deadline of special sessions submission: 1 February 2019 Opening of contribution submissions: 1 February 2019 Submission of demonstration proposals: 1 March 2019 Deadline of proceedings paper submission: 15 March 2019 Deadline of extended abstracts submission: 1 April 2019 Notification of acceptance: 1 May 2019 Camera-ready paper and registration opening: 1 June 2019 Deadline early registration at discount rate: 15 June 2019 Conference dates: 17-19 September 2019 BEST PAPER AWARDS ENNS will sponsor a maximum of four best paper awards, two in the Brain Inspired Computing track (one poster and one oral communication) and, analogously, two in the Machine Learning Research track. All awardees will be presented during the final ceremony. TRAVEL GRANTS The European Neural Network Society sponsors a number of Student Travel Grants covering part of the costs for attending ICANN. Details on the conference website. ORGANISATION General Chair: Igor Tetko (ENNS/HMGU Munich, Germany) and Fabian Theis (HMGU/TUM Munich, Germany) Organising Committee Chairs: Monica Campillos (HMGU Munich, Germany), Alessandra Lintas (ENNS Lausanne, Switzerland) Honorary Chair: Vera Kurkova, Czech Academy of Sciences (ENNS President) Communication Chair: Paolo Masulli (ENNS Lausanne, Switzerland) -- Paolo Masulli European Neural Network Society https://e-nns.org

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Post-doc or engineer: image analysis to study astrocyte-synapse/circuit signaling in Lausanne/Switzerland
by Carlos Vivar Rios Dec. 30, 2018

Dec. 30, 2018

We seek a highly motivated post-doc or engineer with solid experience in computer programming and analysis of biological fluorescence signals (e.g. 3D two-photon and microendoscopy Ca2+ imaging), to develop innovative analytical pipelines for studying astrocyte-synapse/circuit computations. Research in our lab is interdisciplinary and focuses on decoding the mode of astrocyte communication and the role of astrocytes in synaptic/circuit functions in the normal and pathologic brain. More info at: https://www.fbm.unil.ch/dnf/group/glia-an-active-synaptic-partner. Publications at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Volterra+A Website at: https://www.fbm.unil.ch/dnf/group/glia-an-active-synaptic-partner Relevant papers: - Savtchouk et al. Front Cell Neurosci, 12:98 (2018); - Bindocci et al., Science, 356.6339 (2017); - Volterra A et al., Nat Rev Neurosci 15:327-35 (2014); - Di Castro et al. Nat Neurosci, 14(10):1276-84 (2011) The ideal candidate is a highly interactive team player in a multidisciplinary English-speaking team; must have solid background in image analysis approaches, experience with most common analysis tools (Imaris, ImageJ, etc), excellent computer programming skills (Python, MATLAB) and knowledge in design of analysis pipeline (linux/windows-based). Expected tasks include: 1) develop both novel analysis approaches and existing programs/interfaces to fit the evolving lab needs in day-by-day interaction with biologists. 2) Maintain and extend our large existing codebase of dedicated analysis scripts for extract and analyze imaging datasets (using proper documentation and exploiting GitHub) and 3) keep track of novel technological and algorithmic developments. Requirements: documented record of productivity, excellent command of English, communication skills and team-working capacity. Applicants should send (as a single PDF file): motivation letter, detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for 2 references, by email to volterralab(a)gmail.com<mailto:volterralab@gmail.com>, indicating “Candidate - data analysis” in the subject field. Job Information Closing date: 2019-01-15 Employment start date: 2019-03-01 Contract length: Typical post-doc contract may last up to 5 years and renewals are 1+2+2 years Institution: University of Lausanne Department: Fundamental Neuroscience|volterra Kind regards, Carlos Vivar Rios UNIL - Université de Lausanne Département des Neurosciences Fondamentales Groupe de Andrea VOLTERRA Bugnon 9 | CH-1005 | Lausanne | Suisse +34 666 05 42 42 carlos.vivarrios(a)unil.ch<mailto:carlos.vivarrios@unil.ch>

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PhD Studentships in Systems/Computational Neuroscience
by Jian Liu Dec. 26, 2018

Dec. 26, 2018

PhD Studentships in Systems/Computational Neuroscience Centre for Systems Neuroscience at the University of Leicester, UK. www.le.ac.uk/csn A number of PhD studentships are available in a wide range of research topics. Please find the details of all the projects below. The deadlines are different. Please contact the PIs on the list, or Dr. Jian K. Liu directly: Project: Neural mechanisms of memory formation, consolidation and recall PI: Prof R Quian Quiroga https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/neural-mechanisms-of-memory-formation… Project: Towards a Functional Model for Associative Learning and Memory Formation PI: Dr Jian K. Liu, Prof Rodrigo Quian Quiroga https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/towards-a-functional-model-for-associ… Project: Dynamics of a minimal neuronal network with multisynaptic dendrites PI: Dr Jian K. Liu, Dr. V Marra https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/dynamics-of-a-minimal-neuronal-networ… Project: Interpretation of social behaviours among mice with Parkinson’s disease PI: Dr. H Zhou, Dr Jian K. Liu https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/interpretation-of-social-behaviours-a… Project: Serotonergic modulation of functional connectivity in cortical microcircuits PI: Dr M Okun, Prof Rodrigo Quian Quiroga https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/serotonergic-modulation-of-functional… -- ************************************************************************** Jian K. Liu, Ph.D. Mathematics Centre for Systems Neuroscience Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour University of Leicester, Leicester, UK Phone: +44 (0)116 373-6860 email: jian.liu(a)leicester.ac.uk <jl634(a)leicester.ac.uk> Webpage: https://sites.google.com/site/jiankliu ************************************************************************** <http://www.avg.com/email-signature?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_cam…> Virus-free. www.avg.com <http://www.avg.com/email-signature?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_cam…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>

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SoAIR 2019 [Extended Deadline]: JST-CREST / IEEE-RAS Spring School on "Social and Artificial Intelligence for User-Friendly Robots" in Japan
by Amir Aly Dec. 26, 2018

Dec. 26, 2018

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS **Apologies for cross posting ** We are pleased to call for applications for the *JST-CREST / IEEE-RAS* spring school on: "*Social and Artificial Intelligence for User-Friendly Robots*" * Which will be held from 17-24 March, 2019 in Shonan Village, Japan *after the *Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)* conference that will be held in the near South Korea. *Webpage: **https://inic8.bitbucket.io/SoAIR19/* <https://inic8.bitbucket.io/SoAIR19/> *I. Aim and Scope *Autonomous and intelligent systems are progressively moving into spaces, which have previously been predominantly shaped by human agency. Unlike in the past where machines obediently served their human operators, machines now increasingly act without the intervention of a human. Artificial intelligence is meeting new challenges in the world, though human-like intelligence may still be a distant goal. Robots in factories are coming out of their cages. Autonomous cars are being tested on streets with regular human-driven cars. The private household is changing with the appearance of not only robotic vacuum cleaners, but also with the first-generation of social robots and smart devices. The challenges that face both the robotics and artificial intelligence communities are how the necessary intelligence for such new environments can be created as well as how to make artificial agents capable of not only solving tasks at hand but also considering social environments around them during interaction with human users so as to behave appropriately. Within the school, we plan to address the tension created by the balance between task-specific artificial intelligence and the demands of sociability required to function effectively in human-centered environments. ** *Who should apply?* We invite *Masters and PhD students* as well as *post-doctoral candidates and researchers from industry* with relevant research background to apply for this spring school. *Additional support could be available based on eligibility.* ** *This spring school is a Technical Education Program (TEP) endorsed and supported by JST-CREST / IEEE-RAS*. ** *The school aims at bridging the gap between social and cognitive Human-Robot Interaction (HRI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Autonomous Vehicles (AV) through high level talks, tutorials, and hands-on workshops (the program will be announced soon).* *II. Keynote Speakers: * 1. * Takayuki Nagai, *Osaka University, Japan 2. * Jun Tani *– Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), Japan 3. *Daniele Magazzeni *– King's College London, UK 4. * Yukie Nagai *– National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Japan 5. * Tetsuya Ogata* – Waseda University, Japan 6. *Mohamed Chetouani *– University of Pierre and Marie Curie (UPMC), France 7. *Silvia Rossi* – University of Naples, Italy 8. *Agnieszka Wykowska *– Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), Italy 9. *Tetsunari Inamura *– National Institute of Informatics (NII), Japan 10. *Amit Kumar Pandey *– SoftBank (Aldebaran) Robotics, France 11. *Mehul Bhatt* – Orebro University, Sweden (Tutorial) 12. *Mohsen Kaboli –* Bavarian Motor Works (BMW), Germany (Tutorial) 13. *Francesco Maurelli *– Jacobs University, Germany (Preparing Marie Curie funding proposal) 14. *Atsuko Nakatsuka* – Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Japan (Preparing JSPS funding proposal) *III. Submission * The applications must include the following files (combined into one file). No other documents would be necessary (More information is available on the school's webpage). 1. *Curriculum vitae*: A CV detailing relevant aspects of the candidate's academic career that demonstrates her/his relevance to the school theme. Please consider including the list of publications. 2. *Research abstract*: A 200-word research abstract that the candidate intends to present during the school. 3. *Letter of recommendation*: A brief letter from the academic advisor or the employer of the candidate supporting her/his application. Please also indicate if additional support would be required to attend the school. *Application submission*: Please use the following EasyChair web link:* Application Submission <https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=soair2019>.* *IV. Important Dates * 1. Application submission *[Extended]*: *10-January, 2019 * 2. Notification of acceptance: *14-January, 2019 * 3. Spring School: *17-24 March, 2019* *V. Organizers * 1. *Amir Aly *– Ritsumeikan University – Japan 2. *Franziska Kirstein *– Blue Ocean Robotics, Denmark 3. * Shashank Pathak *– Visteon Corporation, Germany --------------------- *Amir Aly, Ph.D.* Senior Researcher Emergent Systems Laboratory College of Information Science and Engineering Ritsumeikan University 1-1-1 Noji Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-8577 Japan

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Post-doc vacancies in Lisbon
by Prata, Diana Dec. 25, 2018

Dec. 25, 2018

Two new Post-Doc positions opened at the Biomedical Neuroscience Lab (https://dpratalab.wordpress.com/; PI: Dr Diana Prata, with double affiliation in King’s College London), at the University of Lisbon - for research in human social neuroscience and the oxytocin system in a 3 year project. Expertise in fMRI and/or EEG highly preferred; and in eye-tracking and SCR favourable; with negotiable salary. Open until 28th of Dec 2018. Please apply or divulge. We look forward to welcoming you!: http://www.eracareers.pt/opportunities/index.aspx?task=global&jobId=106522 Diana Prata, Phd Marie Curie Fellow Principal Investigator (Biomedical Neuroscience Lab), Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica, FCUL Visiting Lecturer, IoPPN, King's College London

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Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling
by Jelmer Borst Dec. 24, 2018

Dec. 24, 2018

Fourth Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling – ACT-R, Nengo, & PRIMs – Date: April 8-12, 2019 Location: Groningen, the Netherlands Fee: € 250 (late fee after February 15 will be € 300) More information and registration: www.cognitive-modeling.com/springschool We are happy to announce the fourth Groningen Spring School on Cognitive Modeling (April 8-12, 2019). This year, the Spring School will cover three different modeling paradigms: ACT-R, Nengo, and PRIMs. Moreover, we are finalising a fourth tutorial on error-driven learning, more details on that will follow soon. Each day will consist of theory lectures, one on each paradigm. Each modeling paradigm also includes hands-on assignments. Although students are free to choose the number of lectures they attend, we recommend students to sign up for lectures on two of the modeling paradigms, and complete the tutorial units for one of the paradigms. At the end of most days there will be a plenary research talk, to show how these different approaches to modeling are applied. On the first day, spring school students are asked to present their own research in a poster session. Like last year, we again offer the opportunity for project students to attend. The idea is that you have attended the spring school in an earlier year and now come back in the week of the spring school to work on your own modeling project under our supervision. Registration is now open. Admission is limited, so register soon! See the website www.cognitive-modeling.com/springschool for more information. Please feel free to forward the information to anyone who might be interested in the Spring School. ______________ ACT-R Teachers: Jelmer Borst & Katja Mehlhorn (University of Groningen) Website: http://act-r.psy.cmu.edu. ACT-R is a high-level cognitive theory and simulation system for developing cognitive models for tasks that vary from simple reaction time experiments to driving a car, learning algebra, and air traffic control. ACT-R can be used to develop process models of a task at a symbolic level. Participants will follow a compressed five-day version of the traditional summer school curriculum. We will also cover the connection between ACT-R and fMRI. Nengo Teacher: Terry Stewart (University of Waterloo) Website: http://www.nengo.ca Nengo is a toolkit for converting high-level cognitive theories into low-level spiking neuron implementations. In this way, aspects of model performance such as response accuracy and reaction times emerge as a consequence of neural parameters such as the neurotransmitter time constants. It has been used to model adaptive motor control, visual attention, serial list memory, reinforcement learning, Tower of Hanoi, and fluid intelligence. Participants will learn to construct these kinds of models, starting with generic tasks like representing values and positions, and ending with full production-like systems. There will also be special emphasis on extracting various forms of data out of a model, such that it can be compared to experimental data. PRIMs Teacher: Niels Taatgen (University of Groningen) Website: http://www.ai.rug.nl/~niels/actransfer.html How do people handle and prioritize multiple tasks? How can we learn something in the context of one task, and partially benefit from it in another task? The goal of PRIMs is to cross the artificial boundary that most cognitive architectures have imposed on themselves by studying single tasks. It has mechanisms to model transfer of cognitive skills, and the competition between multiple goals. In the tutorial we will look at how PRIMs can model phenomena of cognitive transfer and cognitive training, and how multiple goals compete for priority in models of distraction. -- Jelmer Borst Assistant Professor University of Groningen Dept. of Artificial Intelligence E: j.p.borst(a)rug.nl W: http://www.jelmerborst.nl/

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A databank for intracellular electrophysiological recordings of adult somatosensory cortex
by Fleur Zeldenrust Dec. 24, 2018

Dec. 24, 2018

Dear all, It is our pleasure to share with you a large database of whole-cell intracellular recordings from 315 neurons located in the supragranular layers (L2/3) of the primary somatosensory cortex in adult mice (9-45 weeks old) from both sexes (females, N=195; males, N=120). Data include 361 somatic current-clamp (CC) and 476 voltage-clamp (VC) experiments, recorded using a step-and-hold protocol (CC, N=257; VC, N=46), frozen noise injections (CC, N=104) and triangular voltage sweeps (VC, 10 (N=132), 50 (N=146) and 100 ms (N=152)), from regular spiking (N=169) and fast-spiking neurons (N=66). We believe that this database will particularly benefit computational modellers, as the data can be used to systematically study the properties of somatic integration, and the principles of action potential generation across sexes and across electrically characterised neuronal classes in adulthood. Understanding the principles of the somatic transformation of postsynaptic potentials into action potentials will shed light onto the computational principles of intracellular information transfer in single neurons and information processing in neuronal networks, helping to recreate neuronal functions in artificial systems. So feel free to use the data for your (cortical) cell models! The data can be found here: http://gigadb.org/dataset/100535 The paper can be found here: https://doi.org/10.1093/gigascience/giy147 Best regards and happy holidays, Angelica da Silva Lantyer Niccolò Calcini Ate Bijlsma Koen Kole Melanie Emmelkamp Manon Peeters Wim J. J. Scheenen Fleur Zeldenrust Tansu Celikel -- Fleur Zeldenrust Assistant Professor Department of Neurophysiology Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour Faculty of Science, Radboud University Heyendaalseweg 135, postvak 33, kamer 02.204 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands tel +31 24 36 53195 fleurzeldenrust.nl

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SSCND9 - Call for applications
by Richard Naud Dec. 21, 2018

Dec. 21, 2018

Dear comp-neuro, We are happy to announce the ninth Summer School of the Centre for Neural Dynamics<http://www.neurodynamic.uottawa.ca/summer.html> At the University of Ottawa May 26 - June 7, 2019 The course is intended for graduate students and undergraduate students in their third and fourth year of study in the physical sciences (e.g. physics, applied mathematics, engineering, computer science) and the life sciences (e.g. neuroscience, biology, physiology, human kinetics) who wish to develop their skills in neural data analysis and in mathematical modeling of neural activity. The topics will range from cellular to systems neuroscience, with applications in medicine. Individuals outside of academia may also participate. The first week will consist of 3 hours of lectures in the mornings followed by an afternoon of relatedcomputer-based laboratories. The second week will consist of 3 hours of lectures in the mornings, followed by an afternoon of interactive discussions and brainstorming activities. Each day will focus on a different subject in systems neuroscience and/or medicine. Participants will work in small groups with mentors, and will be prepared for these activities by directed readings. Later in the afternoon, groups will convene into a plenary session with our experts to identify proper computational questions and associated timely research projects on the focus theme. All classes will be held on the main downtown campus of the University of Ottawa. The course can also be taken for credit, since it is a University of Ottawa three-credit graduate course (NSC8104). The mark will be based on work done in the computer laboratories and a project. All students receive a letter stating that they satisfactorily participated in the school, regardless of whether they take the course for credit. Those taking it for credit will receive their mark from the University of Ottawa Registrar's Office later in the summer. Important Dates January 6, 2019: Registration opens. February 15, 2019: Application deadline (including letter of recommendation). Faculty * Prof. André Longtin (uOttawa) * Prof. Richard Naud (uOttawa) * Prof. John Lewis (uOttawa) * Prof. Jean-Philippe Thivierge (uOttawa) * Prof. Jean-Claude Béïque (uOttawa) * Prof. Maurice Chacron (McGill) * Prof. Jonathan Rubin (U Pitt) * Prof. Simon Chen (uOttawa) * Prof. Blake Richards (McGill,MILA) * Prof. Steve Prescott (U Toronto) * Dr. Saskia De Vries (Allen Institute) Organizers André Longtin Richard Naud John Lewis

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MSc and PhD programmes in Computational Neuroscience
by Mark van Rossum Dec. 21, 2018

Dec. 21, 2018

Dear all Applications are invited for our new MSc and PhD programmes in Computational Neuroscience in Nottingham. https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/courses/psychology/computational-neuro… https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/courses/doctoral-training-programmes/e… Merry Christmas and a happy 2019 -- Mark van Rossum, Professor, Schools of Psychology and Maths, U Nottingham Psych Bldg Rm LG.19, +44-115-74-86851, +44-7722049644(m) This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

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A review of the year in (systems) neuroscience, from The Spike
by Mark Humphries Dec. 21, 2018

Dec. 21, 2018

Systems neuroscience is a fascinating, if daunting, subject - daunting to keep up with, even more daunting to dive into for the first time That’s why I launched The Spike in 2016, as a platform to bring the triumphs and challenges of systems neuroscience to a broad audience As a great place to start, we’ve just published our review of 2018, https://medium.com/the-spike/2018-a-mildly-muddled-review-of-the-year-in-ne… And read the rest here: https://medium.com/the-spike Enjoy! Prof Mark Humphries @markdhumphries This message and any attachment are intended solely for the addressee and may contain confidential information. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender and delete the email and attachment. Any views or opinions expressed by the author of this email do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Nottingham. Email communications with the University of Nottingham may be monitored where permitted by law.

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Faculty position in AI and Neuroscience, Cambridge
by Máté Lengyel Dec. 20, 2018

Dec. 20, 2018

Faculty position in AI and Neuroscience Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, UK Applications are invited for a University Lectureship (~ US Assistant Professor equivalent) at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Neuroscience (including Cognitive Science) in the Computational and Biological Learning Lab (cbl.eng.cam.ac.uk). CBL combines expertise in computational neuroscience and cognitive science (Mate Lengyel, Guillaume Hennequin, Rich Turner) and machine learning (Zoubin Ghahramani, Carl Rasmussen, Rich Turner, Jose Miguel Hernandez-Lobato). We particularly encourage applicants who would complement our current research activities. The successful applicant’s research should use AI-inspired computational and theoretical approaches to neuroscience (including computational cognitive science), or conversely, biological intelligence-inspired approaches to AI (with an emphasis on machine learning-based approaches), and may combine these approaches with behavioural experiments. This is a linked post offered in association with Wolfson College, and the successful applicant will be elected to an Official Fellowship of the College. Informal enquiries are welcome to: Mate Lengyel <m.lengyel(a)eng.cam.ac.uk> Guillaume Hennequin <g.hennequin(a)eng.cam.ac.uk> Richard Turner <ret26(a)cam.ac.uk> Timeline: - Closing date of applications: Friday, 1 February 2019 - Interviews: March-April 2019 - Decision expected: April 2019 Further information and details of the application process can be found at http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/19416/ The University of Cambridge values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. -- Mate Lengyel Professor of Computational Neuroscience Computational and Biological Learning Lab Cambridge University Engineering Department Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK tel: +44 (0)1223 748 532, fax: +44 (0)1223 765 587 email: m.lengyel(a)eng.cam.ac.uk web: www.eng.cam.ac.uk/~m.lengyel

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Research positions in Neuromorphic computing in Singapore
by Yansong Chua Dec. 19, 2018

Dec. 19, 2018

Multiple scientist and engineer positions are open for a neuromorphic program (on-going till 2021) in Singapore, at the Institute for Infocomm Research (I2R), A*STAR. The program is a multi-disciplinary effort, that straddles across the hardware (neuromorphic chip with RRAM, on-chip learning), middleware (emulator) and software (learning algorithms), and we aim to develop a demonstrating application system at end of the program. The program hence presents an unique research opportunity for candidates hoping to build a complete neuromorphic learning system. We are now in the second year of the program and have made good progress on all three aspects of the program. We have still a few openings for talented scientists and both software and hardware engineers who would be excited to work on any aspects of the program (hardware, middleware, software and system integration). Multiple top-ranked universities and research institutes in Singapore (NUS, NTU, IME, IHPC, I2R) are collaborating on the program. The work package I am in-charge of is primarily involved in the design of better algorithms for spiking neural networks. To this end, successful candidates will conduct research in one or more of the following areas: - Neuronal encoding: how to better encode external stimuli into spike based representations to facilitate decoding with high fidelity and also better learning performance (in terms of accuracy and power efficiency). - Supervised learning: given that spiking neural networks are asynchronous and sparse in their activities, the design of supervised learning algorithms that can fully capitalize on these properties becomes critical. - Mapping of state-of-art deep learning networks to spiking networks. Neuromorphic learning algorithms are still solving fairly simple problems compared to deep learning. For this, we would like to systematically borrow from the deep learning community networks and learning algorithms that can quickly boost the capabilities of spiking neural networks. - Unsupervised learning. STDP is well suited for unsupervised learning in spiking neural networks, and we would like to further advance STDP learning in spiking neural networks (both theory and applications). Preference will be given to candidates who can document knowledge in deep learning, spiking neural networks or signal processing (with interest in spiking neural networks). Candidates must have a PhD (for scientists) or MS/BS (for engineers) in computer science, computational neuroscience or related fields. Strong programming and quantitative skills are highly desired. Candidates should be proficient in spoken and written English. The appointment will be for 3 years, and extended for another 1 year, after review. Salaries are commensurate with internationally-competitive salaries and benefits. The start date is flexible and applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. Other benefits include: - Funding for international conferences and training courses - Collaboration opportunities with an excellent network of international scientists Candidates please send your curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests and three references to Dr. Yansong Chua (chuays(a)i2r.a-star.edu.sg)

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Joint A*STAR (Singapore) and King’s College London PhD Studentship
by Yansong Chua Dec. 19, 2018

Dec. 19, 2018

We would like to encourage potential PhD candidates interested to work on understanding the role of stochastic neuron models in neuromorphic computing to apply for the above PhD studentship. We are including below a non-technical introduction to the project involved. The candidate will be jointly supervised by Prof. Osvaldo Simeone, Professor of Information Engineering, King's College London and Dr. Yansong Chua, Institute for Infocomm Research, A*STAR. For further queries, we maybe reached at: Prof Simeone: osvaldo.simeone at kcl.ac.uk Dr Chua: chuays at i2r.a-star.edu.sg More application details are also available at https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/funding-opportunities/doctoral-research-oppo… https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/funding-opportunities/doctoral-research-oppo… For all its recent breakthroughs, modern machine learning based on deep neural networks is becoming increasingly unaffordable in terms of computing and energy resources needed to run training algorithms that achieve state-of-the-art performance. This poses possibly insurmountable challenges for the implementation of efficient learning methods on resource-limited devices such as smart sensors or wearables. A possible solution to this problem is the adoption of the new paradigm of neuromorphic computing, which relies on energy-efficient sparse spike-domain processing and communication that are inspired by the operation of the brain. Whether Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) can overcome the limitations of conventional deep networks for the implementation of low-power machine learning is a fundamental question that is currently being investigated by major technology companies and universities. In this project, this issue will be tackled both theoretically and through hands-on experiments by leveraging the complementary expertise of the respective research teams at KCL and A*STAR. Specifically, this research will seek to understand whether conventional deterministic models for SNNs can be improved by probabilistic models, which are typically used in neuroscience to model the brain operation, in terms of accuracy, speed, and robustness. In the first two years, at KCL, the project will concentrate on deriving models and learning rules for probabilistic SNNs. In the last two years, at A*STAR, the research will shift to aspects related to implementation, with a focus on the comparison between deterministic and probabilistic SNNs and on the use of nano-scale devices for the implementation of probabilistic SNNs.

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Call for abstracts, AMAM 2019, Adaptive motion in animals and machines, Aug 19-23 2019, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
by Auke Ijspeert Dec. 19, 2018

Dec. 19, 2018

AMAM 2019, Adaptive Motion in Animals and Machines, Aug 19-23 2019, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland https://amam2019.epfl.ch/ Call for abstracts and robot demonstrations, deadline March 8th, 2019 Investigating how animals and humans excel at adaptive movements can help engineers to improve the adaptive capabilities of robots. In return, robots can serve as scientific tools to explore the basic principles of biological systems, in particular the neuromechanical mechanisms underlying their fascinating motor abilities. AMAM 2019 is the 9th international symposium dedicated to stimulate fruitful interactions among biologists and engineers interested in adaptive motion. It aims at bringing together researchers in robotics, biomechanics, neuroscience, sports science, and other fields related to motor behavior in biological and artificial systems. Previous symposia were held in Montreal, Canada (2000); Kyoto, Japan (2003); Ilmenau, Germany (2005); Cleveland, USA (2008); Awaji, Japan (2011); Darmstadt, Germany (2013); Cambridge, USA (2015); and Sapporo, Japan (2017). Two-page abstract contributions are invited from all areas pertaining to adaptive motion in animals and machines. Accepted abstracts will be presented in poster sessions. Invited talks will be presented in oral sessions in a single track (see the exciting list of speakers below). We also encourage participants to contribute hardware demonstrations, as part of the ‘Robot Zoo’@AMAM2019. See https://amam2019.epfl.ch/ for instructions. Important dates: * Jan 18th, 2019 Opening of the extended abstract submission * March 8th, 2019 Deadline of extended abstracts submission * April 12th, 2019 Notification of acceptance for extended abstracts * May 31st, 2019 Deadline of submission for Robot Zoo (Robot Demos) * August 19-23, 2019 Conference Sponsors: Maxon https://www.maxonmotor.com Plenary speakers: * Grégoire Courtine, EPFL, Switzerland * Monica Daley, Royal Veterinary College, UK * Dario Floreano, EPFL, Switzerland * Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University, USA * Lena Ting, Emory University & Georgia Institute of Technology, USA * Herman van der Kooij, University of Twente & Delft University of Technology, Netherlands Invited speakers: * Shinya Aoi, Kyoto University, Japan * David Franklin, Technische Universität München, Germany * John Hutchinson, Royal Veterinary College, UK * Tetsuya Iwasaki, University of California, Los Angeles, USA * Katsu Kagaya, Kyoto University, Japan * Sangbae Kim, MIT, USA * Megan Leftwich, The George Washington University, USA * David Lentink, Stanford University, USA * Charlotte Le Mouel, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Germany * Poramate Manoonpong, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark * Kamilo Melo, EPFL, Switzerland * Katja Mombaur, Heidelberg University, Germany * Beth Mortimer, University of Oxford, UK * Ulrike Müeller, California State University, Fresno, USA * Jamie Paik, EPFL, Switzerland * Pavan Ramdya, EPFL, Switzerland * Chris Richards, Royal Veterinary College, UK * Nidhi Seethapathi, University of Pennsylvania, USA * Simon Sponberg, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA * Emily Standen, University of Ottawa, Canada * Dagmar Sternad, Northeastern University, USA * Barbara Webb, University of Edinburgh, UK * Rob Wood, Harvard University, USA * Kotaro Yasui, Tohoku University, Japan Program Committee: * Hitoshi Aonuma, Hokkaido University, Japan * Jordan Boyle, Leeds University, UK * Monica Daley, Royal Veterinary College, UK * Koh Hosoda, Osaka University, Japan * Fumiya Iida, Cambridge, UK * Auke Ijspeert, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland * Akio Ishiguro, Tohoku University, Japan * Masato Ishikawa, Osaka University, Japan * Takeshi Kano, Tohoku University, Japan * Sangbae Kim, MIT, USA * Jun Nishii, Yamaguchi University, Japan * Dai Owaki, Tohoku University, Japan * Andre Seyfarth, TU Darmstadt, Germany * Emily Standen, University of Ottawa, Canada * Dagmar Sternad, Northeastern University, USA * Barry Trimmer, Tufts University, USA * Eric Tytell, Tufts University, USA * Hartmut Witte, TU Ilmenau, Germany Local organization committee: * Jonathan Arreguit * Alessandro Crespi * Florin Dzeladini * Peter Eckert * Sylvie Fiaux * Anne Koelewijn * Mehmet Mutlu * Laura Páez * Amy Wu -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Prof Auke Jan Ijspeert Biorobotics Laboratory EPFL-STI-IBI-BIOROB, ME D1 1226, Station 9 EPFL, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland Office: ME D1 1226 Tel: +41 21 693 2658 Fax: +41 21 693 3705 www:http://biorob.epfl.ch Email:Auke.Ijspeert@epfl.ch -----------------------------------------------------------------

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2 Postdoc positions in Social Neuroscience - Portugal
by Agustin Petroni Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

The Biomedical Neuroscience Lab, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon ( https://dpratalab.wordpress.com/) is seeking candidates for two postdoctoral positions, one in fMRI and the other in EEG. The selected candidates will be part of a project that studies the physiological bases of social reinforcement learning in healthy subjects and patients, in particular the oxytocin system. Applications should be sent via e-mail to diana.prata(a)kcl.ac.uk, including a CV with publications and a letter of interests by December 28th. The salary is competitive according to the cost of living in Portugal, and will be dependent on experience. Both positions are funded for a maximum of three years. Official call http://www.eracareers.pt/opportunities/index.aspx?task=global&jobId=106522

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Job Opening: Exploring Metrics of Consciousness in the Mouse (at the Allen Institute for Brain Science)
by Anton Arkhipov Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

A new exciting job opportunity is open at the Allen Institute for Brain Science: Scientist I – Exploring Metrics of Consciousness in the Mouse. Please apply here: http://alleninstitute.org/what-we-do/brain-science/careers/job-search/ Follow the link above and then choose the position “Scientist I – Exploring Metrics of Consciousness in the Mouse” from the list of all available positions. Please feel free to contact me with any questions: antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org>. Thanks! Scientist I – Exploring Metrics of Consciousness in the Mouse We are seeking a Scientist to join a project dedicated to measuring consciousness in humans and animals, and establishing mechanistic underpinnings of consciousness. This is a collaboration between the laboratory of Prof. Giulio Tononi at the University of Wisconsin in Madison and scientists at the Allen Institute of Brain Science under Dr. Christof Koch, in the groups of Associate Investigators Anton Arkhipov and Shawn Olsen. The scientist in this position will focus on estimating consciousness in the mouse brain by applying the differentiation and integrated information metrics, developed by our collaborators, to cortical neuronal activity measured in awake mice using optical physiology and electrophysiology (Neuropixels) recordings at the Allen Institute. The scientist will also contribute to the analysis of perturbative experiments in mice, where electrical stimulation will be delivered via an extracellular electrode and cortical activity will be simultaneously recorded. Studying data from these experiments under various conditions of consciousness and non-consciousness (awake, sleep, anesthesia) and ultimately with perturbations (via pharmacology and/or optogenetics), we aim to elucidate the contributions of different parts of the brain to consciousness. The focus of this work is to extend and validate certain predictions from the Integrated Information Theory of Consciousness (IIT). JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: • Analyze optical physiology and electrophysiology recordings to measure differentiation and integrated information. • In collaboration with theoreticians and experimentalists in house and at other institutions, explore how various neuronal populations and circuit architectures may underlie the trends observed in physiological recordings. • Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences. REQUIRED QUALIFCATIONS: • PhD degree in Neuroscience, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or related fields. • Strong publication record • 0-2 years’ experience in computational science such as: neuroscience and/or systems neuroscience, computational physics, biophysics, and related disciplines. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: • Strong background in scientific programming is a plus. • Candidates with strong background in experimental systems neuroscience, willing to switch to computational work, are encouraged to apply. Anton Arkhipov Associate Investigator antona(a)alleninstitute.org<mailto:antona@alleninstitute.org> T: 206.548.8414 www.alleninstitute.org<http://www.alleninstitute.org>

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CNS*2019 Barcelona: Call for Workshop Proposals and Tutorials
by Sharon Crook Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

Organization for Computational Neurosciences 2885 Sanford Ave SW #15359 Grandville, MI 49418 USA We request proposals for workshops and tutorials from the international community of computational neuroscientists. Proposals from all levels of faculty as well as advanced postdoctoral fellows are welcome. This is a great opportunity to organize a small meeting or introduce novel methodology through a tutorial with only a few of the headaches of organizing it. We look forward to your submissions. CALL FOR WORKSHOPS (see below and also https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019-call-for-workshops) Martin Zopotocky, Workshop Organizer, CNS*2019 CALL FOR TUTORIALS (see below and also https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019-call-for-tutorials) Hermann Cuntz, Tutorial Organizer, CNS*2019 1. WORKSHOP PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR CNS*2019, BARCELONA Workshops, in which computationally related neuroscience topics can be presented, will take place during the last two days (July 16 and July 17 2019) of the 28th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2019) For each workshop, usually several speakers are invited to introduce a unifying theme, but ample time for discussion should also be planned. Please note that there is a change in the format of the meeting compared to previous years. The main meeting will conclude on July 16, with a keynote lecture and a poster session taking place in the afternoon. The morning of July 16 is reserved for workshops. A goal of this "mixed day" of the meeting is to facilitate an overlap of attendance. Participants who have registered for either the main meeting or the workshops will be allowed to attend all of the events on July 16 (workshops, keynote, poster session). The last day of the meeting, July 17, is reserved for workshops, as in the previous years (workshop registration will be required to attend). Accordingly, the possible duration of a workshop is anywhere from 0.5 days (one session lasting 3.5 hours) to 1.5 days (three half-day sessions). Half-day workshops will be preferentially scheduled for July 16. They will thus offer the opportunity to attract a wider audience still present for the main meeting. Submit workshop proposals to: workshops(a)cnsorg.org. The Past Meetings page (https://www.cnsorg.org/past-annual-meetings) gives access to archives of workshops held at previous CNS meetings. The proposal should be submitted as a Word or pdf file and MUST include the following sections: * WORKSHOP TITLE * ORGANIZERS (list primary organizer first; include affiliations and emails) * WORKSHOP DURATION * NUMBER OF EXPECTED SPEAKERS * BRIEF DESCRIPTION (~150 words; if possible, say why this is significant or timely) * SPEAKERS (mark expected or confirmed) Also please note the following rules which were approved by the OCNS Board on July 15, 2013: * Each individual can be the organizer or co-organizer on only one workshop. * The number of confirmed speakers is a criterion for accepting the proposal. * Overlapping proposals may be asked to be combined. If the organizers do not wish to combine the proposals, only one of the proposals may be accepted. DEADLINE: Workshops submitted before January 31, 2019 will be given priority in acceptance. Workshop proposals arriving after January 31, 2019 will be evaluated based on remaining space for additional workshops. No further workshop acceptances will be anticipated after May 15, 2019. 2. TUTORIAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR CNS*2019, BARCELONA Tutorials are intended as introductions into main methodologies of various fields in computational neuroscience. Tutorials are particularly tailored for early stage researchers as well as researchers entering a new field in computational neuroscience. The tutorials will be held on the first day of the meeting, July 13 2019, with a typical total attendance of approximately 100 attendees, allowing for four concurrent sessions during the day. Three different formats are available: * Introductory FULL DAY courses (incl. some reimbursement for the tutors) * Specialized HALF DAY tutorials (incl. some reimbursement for the tutors) * 30 MINUTES software showcase (no funding available) Submit tutorial proposals to: tutorials(a)cnsorg.org. Please compare with last year's tutorials at https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2018-tutorials. Note that our new format, the showcases, will be combined into one continuous afternoon program. The proposal should be submitted as a Word or pdf file and MUST include the following sections: * TUTORIAL TITLE * ORGANIZERS (list primary organizer first; include affiliations and emails) * FORMAT (full day, half day, showcase) * BRIEF DESCRIPTION (max. 300 words; include links to relevant software) DEADLINE: Tutorial proposals should be submitted before January 31, 2019. Registration: Workshop registration will occur through the OCNS registration web site for CNS*2019. All workshop participants, including speakers must register. Each workshop is eligible to receive registration waivers for 2 speakers. Travel awards: A limited number of Travel Awards will be available for organizers or speakers. Priority will be given to postdocs and early career faculty. Travel Award amounts will be variable, depending on distance traveled. Please indicate which speakers you would like to be considered for this mechanism but take into account that there likely will be fewer Travel Awards than workshops.

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PhD studentships available at the University of Sussex
by Anil Seth Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

Ph.D. Scholarships available at the University of Sussex: From sensation and perception to awareness. We are delighted to invite applications for the second round of the Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme in ‘From Sensation and Perception to Awareness’, hosted across multiple Schools at the University of Sussex. Up to eight fully funded positions will be awarded (for UK/EU applicants), starting Sep 2019. The aim of the programme is to bring together doctoral researchers from different disciplines to advance our understanding of the interactions between sensing, perception, and awareness in humans, animals, and machines. Applicants can select from a range of projects or propose their own. Pre-specified projects are divided into three main themes: (i) Human-computer interaction and digital arts, (ii) human cognitive neuroscience and computational neuroscience, and (iii) sensory neuroscience. For more details and for how to apply please see https://www.findaphd.com/search/PhdDetails.aspx?CAID=3783 and https://www.sussex.ac.uk/sensation/applications. For more on the Programme please visit https://www.sussex.ac.uk/sensation/, and follow us on Twitter @SensationSussex. Email enquries to Leverhulme(a)sussex.ac.uk<mailto:Leverhulme@sussex.ac.uk>. Application deadline is 31 January 2019. The programme is co-directed by Anil Seth (Engineering and Informatics) and Jamie Ward (Psychology). ------------------------------------------- Anil K. Seth, D.Phil. University of Sussex, UK Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience Co-Director, Sackler Centre for Consciousness Science Editor-in-Chief, Neuroscience of Consciousness Senior Fellow, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research Engagement Fellow, Wellcome Trust www.anilseth.com<http://www.anilseth.com>, www.neurobanter.com<http://www.neurobanter.com> @anilkseth

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Announcement of Spring School on Computational Cognitive Science, March 25th to 31st 2019 in Freiburg, Germany
by Jannis Born Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

We are excited to announce that registration is now open for our new, NENS-awarded spring school (“I²C²S³”, International Interdisciplinary Computational Cognitive Science Spring School). Its first iteration will take place in the period of March 25th – 31th, 2019 at the Bernstein Center Freiburg, Germany. This annual spring school is designed for researchers and students from all fields with an interest in computational approaches to the brain and cognitive sciences. We encourage all participants to present their own research in the format of a poster or a Blitz talk. Following a five-day educational program with a mixture of invited talks and instructive tutorials, the event will conclude with an optional two-day Hackathon. Attendees can receive one ECTS-point for their participation in the event. Registration is free, apart from a 20 Euro deposit. Master or PhD students currently residing outside of Germany are eligible to apply for one out of 4 stipends of 750 Euro (generously provided by FENS/IBRO-PERC) to cover the costs associated with their attendance. Registration will be closed on February 16th 2019 11:59pm. Preliminary list of speakers: * Radoslaw Martin Cichy (Free University Berlin, Department of Psychology and Education) * Frank Jäkel (Technische Universität Darmstadt, Centre for Cognitive Science) * Falk Lieder (MPI Intelligent Systems, Tübingen, Rationality Enhancement Group) * Timo Flesch (University of Oxford, Human Information Processing Lab) * Michael Tangermann (University of Freiburg, Brain State Decoding Lab) * Stefan Rotter (Bernstein Center Freiburg, Computational Neuroscience Lab) * Carsten Mehring (Bernstein Center Freiburg, Neurobiology and Neurotechnology) * Peggy Series (University of Edinburgh, Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation) * Lilian Weber (ETH Zurich, Translational Neuromodeling Unit) For a preliminary program, please visit our webpage at http://iiccsss.eu/. Please do not hesitate to write us an email (info(a)iiccsss.eu) if you have any questions. Feel free to spread this announcement to your friends and colleagues. We look forward to seeing you @IICCSSS2019. Sincerely, The organization committee -- Jannis Born Maryna Kapitonova Jan Kirchner Lukas Vogelsang

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Announcing Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2019
by Erik De Schutter Dec. 18, 2018

Dec. 18, 2018

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2019 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 24 to July 11, 2019 Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Japan https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc The aim of the Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course is to provide opportunities for young researchers with theoretical backgrounds to learn the latest advances in neuroscience, and for those with experimental backgrounds to have hands-on experience in computational modeling. We invite graduate students and postgraduate researchers to participate in the course, held from June 24th through July 11th, 2019 at an oceanfront seminar house of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University. Applications are through the course web page (https://groups.oist.jp/ocnc) only; January 1 - February 2, 2019. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 16th OCNC will be a comprehensive three-week course covering single neurons, networks, and behaviors with ample time for student projects. The first week will focus exclusively on methods with hands-on tutorials during the afternoons, while the second and third weeks will have lectures by international experts. The course has a strong hands-on component based on student proposed modeling or data analysis projects, which are further refined with the help of a dedicated tutor. Applicants are required to propose their project at the time of application. There is no tuition fee. The sponsor will provide lodging and meals during the course and provides partial travel support. We hope that this course will be a good opportunity for theoretical and experimental neuroscientists to meet each other and to explore the attractive nature and culture of Okinawa, the southernmost island prefecture of Japan. Invited faculty: • Claudia Clopath (Imperial College, UK) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Tomoki Fukai (OIST) • Wenbiao Gan (New York University, USA) • Geoff Goodhill (University of Queensland, Australia) • Jun Izawa (Tsukuba University, Japan) • Mike Hausser (University College London, UK) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Eve Marder (Brandeis University, USA) • Peggy Series (University of Edinburgh, UK) • Greg Stephens (OIST) • Taro Toyoizumi (RIKEN BSI, Japan) • Yoko Yazaki-Sugiyama (OIST) • Yi Zeng (Chinese Academy of Sciences, China)

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Postdoctoral position(s) available in group of N. Kopell
by Nancy Kopell Dec. 17, 2018

Dec. 17, 2018

A 2-year (extendable) postdoctoral fellow position in computational neuroscience is available at Boston University with Nancy Kopell. The successful candidate will build neural models capable of simulating neural dynamics underlying the oscillatory behavior involved in auditory cognition, particularly in relation to active sensing and speech processing. The goal of this work is to better elucidate cellular and network pathways in the brain that underlie auditory and visual cognition. There will be opportunities for interaction with a large community of experimental and computational neuroscientists via the Conte Center for Basic Neuroscience Research, a highly networked group that includes Boston University, Columbia University Medical Center, The Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Princeton University and UC Berkeley. The Conte Center contains members with expertise in vivo and in vitro physiology, fMRI, EcOG, data analysis, and dynamical systems modeling. In addition to the above opening, there may also be positions to work with Kopell and experimentalists on a modeling project involving interactions of pyramidal cells and multiple kinds of interneurons to form cognitively important cell assemblies. Applications for such positions are also welcome. Qualified candidates should have a strong mathematics or physics background, preferentially with experience in dynamical systems, as well as strong programming experience. Preference will be given to candidates with experience using detailed biophysical models. Experience with experimental neuroscience is also helpful. The deadline for applications is Feb 1, 2019. Interested candidates should email a CV, statement of research interests, three letters of recommendation, and if applicable, relevant publications to xiaoshi(a)bu.edu. Applications should include a listing of those sending letters of recommendation. Boston University is an equal opportunity employer.

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Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuits, Memory and Computation 2018
by Aurel A. Lazar Dec. 16, 2018

Dec. 16, 2018

Columbia Workshop on Brain Circuits, Memory and Computation 2018 <http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/workshops/bcmc/2018> BCMC 2018 March 15-16, 2018 Center for Neural Engineering and Computation <http://cnec.columbia.edu/> Columbia University, New York, NY, USA Overview The goal of the workshop is to bring together researchers interested in developing executable models of neural computation/processing of the brain of model organisms. Of interest are models of computation that consist of elementary units of processing using brain circuits and memory elements. Elementary units of computation/processing include population encoding/decoding circuits with biophysically-grounded neuron models, non-linear dendritic processors for motion detection/direction selectivity, spike processing and pattern recognition neural circuits, movement control and decision-making circuits, etc. Memory units include models of spatio-temporal memory circuits, circuit models for memory access and storage, etc. A major aim of the workshop is to explore the integration of various sensory and control circuits in higher brain centers. A Fruit Fly Brain Hackathon <http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu/hackathons/ffbh/2018> is being conducted in conjunction with the workshop. Workshop participants are welcome to attend the hackathon. Registration Registration is free but all participants have to register <https://bcmc2018.eventbrite.com/>. Thank you! Organizer and Program Chair Aurel A. Lazar <http://www.ee.columbia.edu/~aurel>, Department of Electrical Engineering, Columbia University. Program Overview (Confirmed Speakers) Misha B. Ahrens <https://www.janelia.org/lab/ahrens-lab>, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA. Davi Bock <https://www.janelia.org/lab/bock-lab>, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA. Claude Desplan <https://wp.nyu.edu/desplanlab/>, Department of Biology, New York University. Mark A. Frye <http://www.fryelab.net/>, Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles. C. Giovanni Galizia <http://neuro.uni-konstanz.de/03team/content/galizia.html>, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz. Maria N. Geffen <https://geffenlab.weebly.com/maria.html>, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania. Hokto Kazama <http://kazama.brain.riken.jp/index.php>, Riken Brain Science Institute, Tokyo. Donggen Luo <http://mgv.pku.edu.cn/?co=posts&ac=faculty&catalog=enpiintro&pname=en_Dongg…>, McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing. Thomas Nowotny <http://www.sussex.ac.uk/profiles/206151>, Department of Informatics, University of Sussex. Pavan Ramdya <https://ramdya-lab.epfl.ch/home>, Brain Mind Institute, EPFL, Lausanne. Aravinthan D.T. Samuel <https://scholar.harvard.edu/aravisamuel/home>, Department of Physics and center for Brain Science, Harvard University. Simon G. Sprecher <http://www.sprecherlab.com/simon-sprecher/>, Department of Biology, University of Fribourg. Seth Tomchik <http://www.scripps.edu/tomchik/>, The Scripps Research Institute Florida. Joshua T. Vogelstein <http://jovo.me/>, Dept. of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University. Scott Waddell <https://www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/research/waddell-group>, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford. Anthony M. Zador <http://zadorlab.cshl.edu/>, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Aurel http://www.bionet.ee.columbia.edu

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New method for single-trial electrophysiology analysis
by Rapela, Joaquin Dec. 15, 2018

Dec. 15, 2018

Hello, We have recently published an article reporting a new method to study temporal expectation on single trials of the EEG (Rapela et al., 2018). Using this method (in an audio-visual attention-shifting oddball task) we discovered a new behaviorally-relevant effect of temporal expectation on the single-trial phase coherence of the EEG. I am interested in checking if this effect can be observed in other experiments. Thus, I would like to collaborate with, or help to, a scientist that is interested in studying with our method single-trial effects of temporal expectation on his/her electrophysiological recordings (EEG, MEG, ECoG, MEA, single units, etc). If this could interest you, please email me at joaquin_rapela(a)brown.edu. Our article appears in Neural Computation and a preprint of it can be found on my web page https://sccn.ucsd.edu/~rapela/pub.htm Code implementing our method appears in https://github.com/joacorapela/singleTrialEEGPredictions Joaquín Rapela, Marissa Westerfield, Jeanne Townsend (2018a). A new foreperiod effect on single-trial phase coherence. Part I: existence and relevance. Neural Computation 30(9): 2348-83. Abstract This letter makes scientific and methodological contributions. Scientifically, it demonstrates a new and behaviorally relevant effect of temporal expectation on the phase coherence of the electroencephalogram (EEG). Methodologically, it introduces novel methods to characterize EEG recordings at the single-trial level. Expecting events in time can lead to more efficient behavior. A remarkable finding in the study of temporal expectation is the foreperiod effect on reaction time, that is, the influence on reaction time of the delay between a warning signal and a succeeding imperative stimulus to which subjects are instructed to respond as quickly as possible. Here we study a new foreperiod effect in an audiovisual attention-shifting oddball task in which attention-shift cues directed the attention of subjects to impendent deviant stimuli of a given modality and therefore acted as warning signals for these deviants. Standard stimuli, to which subjects did not respond, were interspersed between warning signals and deviants. We hypothesized that foreperiod durations modulated intertrial phase coherence (ITPC, the degree of phase alignment across multiple trials) evoked by behaviorally irrelevant standards and that these modulations are behaviorally meaningful. Using averaged data, we first observed that ITPC evoked by standards closer to the warning signal was significantly different from that evoked by standards further away from it, establishing a new foreperiod effect on ITPC evoked by standards. We call this effect the standard foreperiod (SFP) effect on ITPC. We reasoned that if the SFP influences ITPC evoked by standards, it should be possible to decode the former from the latter on a trial-by-trial basis. We were able to do so showing that this effect can be observed in single trials. We demonstrated the behavioral relevance of the SFP effect on ITPC by showing significant correlations between its strength and subjects' behavioral performance. Cordially, Joaquin

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Paid Internship in Systems Neuroscience -- Memory Consolidation (joint project between MIT and FAU)
by Carmen Varela Dec. 15, 2018

Dec. 15, 2018

*Joint research project between MIT and FAU* Spend the Spring semester (2019) visiting two booming neuroscience hubs: Jupiter, Florida and Boston, Massachusetts We are looking for a talented student that will apply analytical techniques to study the dynamics of cellular interactions that underlie the consolidation of memory during sleep. The project will involve the analysis of neural data (single cells, local field potentials) recorded from multiple brain areas (neocortex, thalamus, hippocampus) in sleeping rodents. The project is a collaboration between the laboratories of Drs. Carmen Varela (Florida Atlantic University, FAU) and Matthew Wilson (Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MIT). *Requirements:* Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, demonstrated initiative and dedication, ability to learn fast. Strong analytical skills, including signal processing and programming. Majors in EECS, Physics and Neuroscience are encouraged to apply. *What you get: * · A paid semester of research (with possibility of extension) in systems neuroscience, including the application of analytical skills to electrophysiology data. · Learn about neuroscience opportunities in two thriving environments, MIT and FAU: the Jupiter campus of FAU is a rapidly growing neuroscience hub that also holds our partners the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience and Scripps Research Institute. Gain additional direct insight into MIT’s established programs and laboratories. · Possibility of presenting results from your work at a neuroscience conference. *Contact:* Submit resume and a brief paragraph commenting on how your skills and background could be helpful to this neuroscience project. Let Dr. Carmen Varela know when you would be available for an interview. carmenv(a)mit.edu https://www.thethalamus.org/

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Open Post Doc Position on Bayesian Computational Modelling for multimodal social interaction
by Dimitri Ognibene Dec. 14, 2018

Dec. 14, 2018

[Apologies for cross-posting] Dear Colleagues, I would be grateful if you could help me spreading the word about this position in the Essex Brain-Computer Interface and Neural Engineering (BCI-NE) Laboratory that I recently joined. Thank you very much, Dimitri We are looking for a Post Doctoral Research Associate to collaborate at the development of Bayesian (DCM and Active Inference) computational models of multimodal social interaction taking into account the role of human chemosignals perception. This will involve also the development of robust algorithms for signal processing, statistical inference and extraction of information from EEG and other physiological signals, as well as the design and implementation of software for the execution of experiments with adaptive VR stimulation. Application closing date 02/01/2019 Application Links https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BOO174/senior-research-officer <https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BOO174/senior-research-officer> https://vacancies.essex.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?… <https://vacancies.essex.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?…> Job reference REQ02121 Job Details The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, the Department of Psychology, and the Essex Brain-Computer Interfaces and Neural Engineering Lab are pleased to announce this postdoctoral position in the Horizon 2020 project "POTION: Promoting social interaction through emotional body odours”. The project will last five years and start in January 2019 and includes partners from the Universities of Pisa (Italy), Padova (Italy), and Essex (UK), the Universitat Politecnica De Valencia (Spain), the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), and the Karolinska Institutet (Sweden), and three companies ISPA CRL (Portougal), SRA Instruments (France) and Feel-Ing s.r.l. (Italy). POTION proposes a novel technological paradigm to delve deeper into understanding meaningful social interaction, combining new knowledge about the chemical composition of human social chemosignals together with a novel olfactory-based technology designed to drive social behaviour. Duties of the Role The Essex team's work on the project focuses on the development of Bayesian (DCM and Active Inference) computational models of multimodal social interaction. This models will be applied to evaluate socially relevant variables, such as trust, presence and inclusion as well as to generate optimal stimuli in artificially mediated social interactions. In particular, the models will cover the role of human chemosignal perception in social interactions. The models will be identified and tested using neurophysiological data (e.g. EEG), peripheral physiological activation (i.e., ECG, RESP, EDA) and behavioural changes (i.e., f-EMG) collected using VR scenarios of increasing complexity. The successful applicant will research and develop Bayesian (DCM and Active Inference) computational models of multimodal social interaction with an emphasis on the role of human chemosignals. They will also develop robust algorithms for signal processing, statistical inference and extraction of information from EEG and other physiological signals, design and implement software for the execution of experiments with VR stimulation, and contribute to the reporting and dissemination of the project. Skills and qualifications required Applicants are expected to hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in Computational Neuroscience, Brain-computer Interfaces, Neural Engineering, Psychology, Machine Learning, Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science or a closely related discipline, or equivalent professional experience or practice. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in computational modelling of social interaction, signal processing, statistical modelling of neural signals and processes, brain-computer interfaces, and virtual reality interfaces. Applicants are also expected to have a strong publication record (relative to their career stage) as first author, ideally including publications in 1st quartile journals in relevant areas. We strongly encourage women to apply as they are currently under-represented in the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering. At the University of Essex internationalism is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally-oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries and a university where you can find the world in one place. Who we are University of Essex has just been awarded the prestigious title of "University of the Year" by the Times Higher Education for "transforming the lives of a growing student body” and " putting both staff and students first" The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) at the University of Essex has an outstanding reputation for teaching and high-quality research in artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, brain-computer interfaces, computer games, evolutionary computation, human language technology, robotics, networks and optoelectronics. Particularly relevant to this application is our research in artificial intelligence and in life and medical sciences applications, which was judged as world-leading in the recent Research Excellence Framework, the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. An important centre spanning both areas is the Essex Brain-Computer Interface and Neural Engineering (BCI-NE) Laboratory. The BCI lab was founded in 2004 by Dr Citi among others, and is one of the largest and best equipped in Europe. For over a decade, it has produced highly visible internationally leading research, with international collaborators at MIT, Berkley, the European Space Agency, and many others. Our members have led high-profile externally funded projects in the area of Assisted Living Technologies. Since 2007 our research has featured prominently in the UK’s Department of Health’s annual report on research and development work relating to assistive technology, e.g. see the 2012 report, which was presented to parliament. The successful applicant will work in collaboration with the Department of Psychology at the University of Essex. This department was ranked 13th out of more than 100 in the UK in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014 <http://www.essex.ac.uk/research/ref>), with 90% of our research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. Academic staff in the department have wide-ranging and world-leading expertise in vision, cognition, cognitive neuroscience, health and social psychology. Students and staff make use of facilities in the Centre for Brain Science, a purpose-built facility dedicated to research and with considerable resources for understanding brain and behaviour. The research facilities are located on our Colchester Campus, which is set within 200 acres of beautiful parkland <https://www.essex.ac.uk/about/wivenhoe-park>, located two miles from the historic town centre of Colchester <https://www.essex.ac.uk/life/colchester-campus/local-area> – England's oldest recorded town. Our Colchester Campus is also easily reached from London and Stansted Airport in under one hour. Home to over 13,000 students from more than 130 countries, our Colchester Campus is the largest of our three sites, making us one of the most internationally diverse campuses on the planet - we like to think of ourselves as the world in one place. Colchester has a relatively low cost of living, while being well connected to London, the coast, and areas of natural beauty in East Anglia. Please see the link below for a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please telephone the Resourcing Team (+44 1206 876559 <tel:+44%201206%20876559>). Feel free to contact us (Dr Citi, (CSEE) lciti(a)essex.ac.uk <mailto:vishwanathan.mohan@essex.ac.uk> (PI), Dr Ognibene (CSEE) dimitri.ognibene(a)essex.ac.uk <mailto:dimitri.ognibene@essex.ac.uk>, Dr Foulsham (PSYCH) foulsham(a)essex.ac.uk) for an informal discussion about this post. Job reference REQ02121 Application closing date02/01/2019 Application Links https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BOO174/senior-research-officer <https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BOO174/senior-research-officer> https://vacancies.essex.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?… <https://vacancies.essex.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?…> -- Dimitri Ognibene, PhD Lecturer in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Department of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, UK http://sites.google.com/site/dimitriognibenehomepage/ Skype: dimitri.ognibene

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