- Comp-neuro - lists.cnsorg.org

Deadline extension: Special Entropy Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience"

by Dimitrije Markovic

Dear Colleagues, We cordially invite you to submit a manuscript for possible publication in a Special Issue on "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience" to be published in the journal Entropy (ISSN 1099-4300, IF 2.419, http://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy) The aim of the Special Issue is to bring together neuronal models and neuronal plasticity mechanisms that are grounded in information theory principles, modern inference, and learning algorithms. We welcome submissions that use information theory as the basis for defining generative principles of neuronal dynamics over multiple spatio-temporal scales, which informs our understanding of information processing in the brain. You can see full details of the scope and submission details at: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy/special_issues/Computational_Neuroscie… The new submission deadline is 31 March 2020. You may send your manuscript at any time before the deadline or a bit later. Submitted papers should not be under consideration for publication elsewhere. Entropy is fully open access. Open access (unlimited and free access by readers) increases publicity and promotes more frequent citations, as indicated by several studies. Please kindly note that an Article Processing Charge (APC) of CHF 1600 currently applies to all accepted papers. Fortunately, it is noticed that your institute have already had a central open access fund established in MDPI's Institutional Open Access Program, it means you do not have to pay the publication fees and your institute will cover it for you if you submit your papers to MDPI journals (see details at: <http://www.mdpi.com/about/ioap><http://www.mdpi.com/about/ioap>). You may contact your library and confirm this. Please do not hesitate to come back to us if there is anything further that we can help with. We look forward to hearing from you. Kind regards, Dimitrije Markovic and Claudius Gros ============================= Dr. Dimitrije Markovic Post-Doc at Technische Universität Dresden, Department of Psychology, Dresden, Germany Lab website: https://tu-dresden.de/mn/psychologie/ifap/ni Phone: +49-351-463-43146 Personal website: http://dimarkov.github.io/ =============================

Jan. 20, 2020

Conference on Curiosity, Creativity, and Complexity, NYC, May 18-19

by Pierre-Yves Oudeyer

On May 18-19 2020, Columbia University in New York will host a conference on Curiosity, Creativity, and Complexity, catalyzing interdisciplinary discussion on these topics across neuroscience, psychology, artificial intelligence, and economics. Registration opens mid-February. Faculty, students, and postdocs are welcome to attend. Full details and updates: https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/curiosity-creativity-and-complexity… <https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/curiosity-creativity-and-complexity…>

Jan. 20, 2020

Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2020: application deadline approaching

by Erik De Schutter

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2020 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 29 to July 16, 2020 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 29th through July 16th, 2020 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, 2020. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 17th 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: • Michael Berry II (Princeton University, USA) • Tiago Branco (Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, London, UK) • Zenas C Chao (University of Kyoto, Japan) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Gaute Einevoll (Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Norway) • Tomoki Fukai (OIST) • Boris Gutkin (Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Devika Narain (Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands) • Alex Pouget (University of Geneva, Switzerland) • Ivan Soltesz (Stanford University, USA) • Saori C. Tanaka (ATR, Japan) • Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfur, Germany) • Marylka Yoe Uusisaari (OIST)

Jan. 20, 2020

CNS*2020: Abstract Submission and Registration Open

by Martin Zapotocky

Organization for Computational Neurosciences 2885 Sanford Ave SW #15359 Grandville, MI 49418 USA *Call for Abstracts** **29th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2020)** **Melbourne, Australia** **July 18--22, 2020* *Local Organizers:* Anthony N. Burkitt (Chair), Mark Cook, Alex Fornito, David Grayden (Treasurer), Luan Ismahil, Tatiana Kameneva, Levin Kuhlmann, Hamish Meffin The main meeting begins the evening of Saturday July 18 and runs through Tuesday July 21. It will be preceded by a day of tutorials (Saturday July 18) and followed by workshops (Tuesday July 21 mixed with the main meeting and Wednesday July 22 workshops only). *Keynote Speakers:* *Matt Botvinick*, /DeepMind Technologies/ *Zhaoping Li*, /Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics/ *Geoff Goodhill*, /The University of Queensland/ *Daniel Polani*, /University of Hertfordshire/ Registration and abstract submission are open. *Abstract submission deadline: March 4, 2020. * 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 drop-down box 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_265… Abstract Submission for Main Meeting: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-abstract-submission Workshop proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-call-for-workshops Tutorial proposals are being accepted at: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-call-for-tutorials For up-to-date conference information, please visit: https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-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 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jan. 15, 2020

Call for papers: ICLR workshop on Bridging Cognitive Science and AI

by Jessica Hamrick

Dear all, Aida Nematzadeh, Kaylee Burns, Alison Gopnik, Josh Tenenbaum, Emmanuel Dupoux and I are organizing a workshop that will be held at the International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR) 2020. The goal of the workshop will be to showcase research in AI that is inspired by human cognition, as well as cognitive models that leverage AI to provide insight into various aspects of human learning and processing. Please see below for our call for papers. We hope to see some of you there! Cheers, Jess Call for Papers We are pleased to invite papers to our workshop at ICLR 2020, titled “Bridging AI and Cognitive Science”: https://baicsworkshop.github.io/ Cognitive science and artificial intelligence (AI) have a long-standing shared history. Indeed, even today many researchers have an interest in performing multidisciplinary research across the two fields. To this end, our workshop aims to inspire connections between AI and cognitive science across a broad set of topics, including perception, language, reinforcement learning, planning, human-robot interaction, animal cognition, child development, and reasoning. We are sourcing short, four-page papers (deadline: February 5, 2020) from cognitive science, neuroscience, and AI across two tracks: The Research track will highlight advances at the intersection of AI, cognitive science, and neuroscience. We welcome submissions on: - AI systems which draw inspiration from natural intelligence, - Computational models of natural intelligence that leverage methods from AI, - Demonstrations of failure cases of AI systems where humans or animals succeed, - Datasets or environments for AI systems which target a particular aspect of natural intelligence, or - Papers which address privacy and fairness in machine learning, using insights from the behavioral sciences, or - Works which otherwise combine AI and cognitive science. The Blue Sky Ideas track will showcase longer-term ideas or positions on ways to connect AI with cognitive science. While we will not require such ideas to be fully instantiated in a working system, we do expect them to be grounded in empirical or computational evidence. We welcome submissions on: - Aspects of cognition which are under-explored in AI, - The order in which the research community should solve cognitive tasks in AI, - How research in AI could inform research in cognitive science, - Survey papers which summarize one area of research in AI or cognitive science for researchers in the other field, or - Works which otherwise propose a longer-term idea or position about the intersection of cognitive science and AI.

Jan. 15, 2020

Leverhulme doctoral programme: Interested in both Machine Learning and Neuroscience?

by Christopher Laurie Buckley

Hi all, Applications for our interdisciplinary Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme at the University of Sussex, “From Sensation and Perception to Awareness”, for entry in September 2020 are now open. There are many great projects and you can propose your own but if you're interested in both Machine Learning and Neuroscience then why not come study Active Inference in brains and machines with myself and the venerable Prof Anil K. Seth. See our project description on the website below. For this project please inquire at c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk FUNDED PHD POSITIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX The University of Sussex invites applications for PhD studentship awards within its Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme entitled “From Sensation and Perception to Awareness”, directed by Jamie Ward and Anil Seth. The prestigious Sussex Leverhulme Trust Doctoral Scholarship Programme <https://www.findaphd.com/common/clickCount.aspx?theid=3783&type=185&url=htt…> brings together doctoral researchers from different disciplines to advance our understanding of the interactions between sensing, perception, and awareness in humans, animals, and machines. The Programme will support an intake of up to NINE students starting in September 2020. PhD students will be registered within one of the participating schools (Life Sciences, Informatics, Psychology, Media Film & Music, and Brighton and Sussex Medical School). The closing date for applications is January 31st, 2020. For further details, including how to apply, see… https://www.findaphd.com/phds/program/studentships-available-from-the-unive… <https://www.findaphd.com/phds/program/studentships-available-from-the-unive…> Dr Christopher L. Buckley Senior Lecturer in Neural Computation Evolutionary and Adaptive Systems Group Sussex Neuroscience Department of Informatics and Engineering University of Sussex Falmer Brighton, UK c.l.buckley(a)sussex.ac.uk

Jan. 15, 2020

Call for Satellite Workshop Proposals, Bernstein Conference 2020 in Berlin

by Anja Dorrn

Call for Satellite Workshop Proposals, Bernstein Conference 2020 in Berlin +++ The Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience invites proposals for Satellite Workshops preceding the Bernstein Conference 2020 in Berlin at the Technical University. +++ ____ BERNSTEIN CONFERENCE The Bernstein Conference has established itself as the largest annual Computational Neuroscience conference in Europe attracting an international audience from across the world. The Satellite Workshops provide a stage to discuss topical research questions, novel scientific approaches and challenges in Computational Neuroscience and related fields. www.bernstein-conference.de<http://www.bernstein-conference.de> ____ IMPORTANT DATES - Satellite Workshops: September 29 – 30, 2020 o Tuesday, Sep 29, 2 pm – 6.30 pm o Wednesday, Sep 30, 8.30 am – 12.30 pm - Main Conference: September 30 – October 2, 2020 - Deadline for Satellite Workshop proposal submission: +++ March 31, 2020 +++ - Notification of workshop acceptance: planned in April 2020 ____ WORKSHOP PROPOSALS Workshops addressing controversial issues, open problems, and comparisons of competing approaches are encouraged. The format should be designed to foster debate, rather than a series of talks. The Workshop Selection Committee<https://www.bernstein-network.de/de/bernstein-conference/2020/conference-co…> will take scientific excellence, topical relevance and gender diversity into account as their selection criteria. Workshop proposals are welcome for either half-day or full-day workshops. Workshop Proposal Forms can be downloaded here: https://www.bernstein-network.de/en/bernstein-conference/2020/satellite-wor… Please submit the completed form to bernstein.conference(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.conference@fz-juelich.de> +++ Deadline: March 31, 2020 – not to be extended +++ ____ FINANCIAL SUPPORT Workshop registration is free for all organizers and speakers of workshops. Workshop organizers will additionally receive a waiver for the main conference fee. From the accepted workshops up to ten workshops will be selected to receive financial support of up to 1500 € each. ____ WORKSHOP SELECTION COMMITTEE Tim Vogels (Workshop Chair) Marion Silies (Workshop Vice Chair) Danielle Bassett Matthew Botvinick Peter Dayan Alain Destexhe Julijana Gjiorgjieva (Program Vice Chair) Tim Gollisch Stephanie Palmer Nathalie Rochefort Nicole Rust Elad Schneidmann (Program Chair) Gasper Tkacik ____ For any further questions, please contact: bernstein.conference(a)fz-juelich.de<mailto:bernstein.conference@fz-juelich.de> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH 52425 Juelich Sitz der Gesellschaft: Juelich Eingetragen im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts Dueren Nr. HR B 3498 Vorsitzender des Aufsichtsrats: MinDir Volker Rieke Geschaeftsfuehrung: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Marquardt (Vorsitzender), Karsten Beneke (stellv. Vorsitzender), Prof. Dr.-Ing. Harald Bolt, Prof. Dr. Sebastian M. Schmidt ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jan. 15, 2020

Feb 15 Application Deadline - 2020 Nengo Summer School

by Peter Blouw

[All details about this school can be found online at https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school] The Centre for Theoretical Neuroscience at the University of Waterloo is excited to announce our 7th 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 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=5w0BzvNOypc 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, 2020*** Format: A combination of tutorials and project-based work. Participants are encouraged to bring their own ideas for projects, which may focus on building neuromorphic applications, 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 various kinds of neuromorphic hardware (e.g. Loihi, SpiNNaker, BrainDrop) - interface Nengo with (spiking and normal) cameras and robotic systems - integrate machine learning methods into biologically oriented models - implement modern nonlinear control methods in neural models - build perceptual, motor, and sophisticated cognitive models using spiking neurons - model anatomical, electrophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural data - use a variety of single cell models within a large-scale model - and much more… Date and Location: June 7th to June 19th, 2020 at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Applications: Please visit https://www.nengo.ai/summer-school/, where you can find more information regarding costs, travel, lodging, along with an application form. We ask that you provide a short description of a possible project, and to briefly indicate how this project might make use of the tools and methods that the summer school will be covering, as listed above. If you have any questions about the school or the application process, please contact Peter Blouw (peter.blouw(a)appliedbrainresearch.com) The school is partially supported by Applied Brain Research, Inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

Jan. 14, 2020

POST-DOC POSITION AT MONASH NEUROSCIENCE OF CONSCIOUSNESS

by Naotsugu Tsuchiya

Postdoc position available (up to 5 years) at Monash Neuroscience of Consciousness (MoNoC), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. We are seeking outstanding postdoctoral research fellows with strong skills in computational or mathematical neuroscience, whose research ambition is to improve the objective detection of consciousness based on the state-of-art analysis of EEG data. If you are successful, you will work in Tsuchiya's lab at Monash, on our National Health Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Ideas grants (2020-2024). The project will involve the development and application of the novel computational analysis of neural recordings from multiple brain areas, recorded from patients with loss of consciousness due to brain injuries and general anaesthesia as well as continuous recording of sleep-wake cycles recorded from epilepsy patients. Our focus will be the test of "integrated information theory of consciousness" (Tononi 2004 BMC, 2016 NRN, Oizumi et al 2016 PLoS Comp & PNAS) as well as its comparison with massive library of data analysis tools, called "hctsa" developed by Ben Fulcher (Fulcher 2013 Roy J Soc Interface, Fulcher 2017 Cell Systems). You will work both independently and collaboratively with multiple PIs. PIs are Tsuchiya & Thomas Andrillon (Monash University, Australia) Ben Fulcher (University of Sydney, Australia) Olivia Carter, Hinze Hogendoorn, Wendyl D'Souza (University of Melbourne, Australia) in collaboration with Giulio Tononi & Melanie Boly (University of Wisconsin, USA) Steven Laureys & Olivia Gosseries (University of Liege, Belgium) Marcello Massimini (University of Milan, Italy) Hiroto Kawasaki & Kirill Nourski (University of Iowa, USA) Starting date is relatively flexible. Late-stage PhD students will be considered (only those with substantial publication records). If you are interested, please send your CV (up to 2 pages) to Nao Tsuchiya <naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu>. Only highly strong candidates will be contacted through emails and interviews. Applications will be open until the ideal candidate is identified. -- -- *Nao (Naotsugu) Tsuchiya* Associate Professor *Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences* Attention and Memory Program School of Psychological Sciences Monash University 770 Blackburn Monash Brain Imaging facility, Clayton, VIC 3800 Australia T: +61 3 9905 4564 E: naotsugu.tsuchiya(a)monash.edu W: homepage: http://users.monash.edu.au/~naotsugt/Tsuchiya_Labs_Homepage http://med.monash.edu.au/psych/email-sig/miccn-email-sig.jpg <http://www.monash.edu/neuro-institute/> 2. Visiting Researcher at Department of Dynamic Brain Imaging, Advanced Telecommunications Research (ATR), Japan 3. Visiting Researcher at CiNet, Osaka University, Japan orcid.org/0000-0003-4216-8701

Jan. 13, 2020

AREADNE 2020 2nd Call for Abstracts: Submission Open

by John Pezaris

AREADNE 2020 Research in Encoding and Decoding of Neural Ensembles Nomikos Conference Centre, Santorini, Greece 16-20 June 2020 http://areadne.org info(a)areadne.org *** SECOND CALL FOR ABSTRACTS: SUBMISSION OPEN *** Dear Colleague, We are pleased to announce solicitation of abstracts for poster presentation at AREADNE 2020, 16-20 June 2020, our eighth meeting to be held at the Nomikos Conference Centre in Santorini, Greece. Continuing with the same highly successful format, AREADNE 2020 will bring scientific leaders from around the world to present their theoretical and experimental work on the functioning of neuronal ensembles. The meeting will provide an informal yet spectacular setting in which attendees can discuss their recent ideas and discoveries, with a relaxed pace that emphasizes interaction Please see the Call for Abstracts for additional details, including links for templates, at http://areadne.org/call-for-abstracts Submissions of abstracts for poster presentations are due by 24 January 2020; notifications will be provided by 21 February 2020. We strongly encourage potential attendees to submit an abstract as presenters have registration priority. For information about the conference, please refer to the main web page http://areadne.org or send email to us at info(a)areadne.org. We hope to see you at AREADNE 2020! --- John Pezaris and Nicholas Hatsopoulos AREADNE 2020 Co-Chairs

Jan. 13, 2020

Post-Doc positions

by sio

Postdoctoral position The Vision and Natural Computation group at the Vision Institute, Paris, France, (http://www.institut-vision.org/en/ <http://www.institut-vision.org/en/>) seeks experienced and outstanding applicants for a post-doctoral researcher in the field of neuromorphic enginering in any related field including machine learning, event-based computer vision, robotics and spiking neural networks. The applicant will join the Vision and Natural Computation group let by Profs R Benosman and S.H Ieng. The group is a pioneer of neuromorphic event based computation and among the leading teams of the international neuromorphic engineering community. We are interested in candidates willing to work on any aspects of event based computation, preference will be given to those interested in developing any aspect related to new forms of machine learning inspired by neurosciences and going beyond the current status-quo of conventional machine learning. The position will open in January 2020. Interested applicants should submit a detailed curriculum vitae with brief paragraphs of research interests, career goals and why you feel you are a good fit for the lab and perhaps a reference person to contact. Information should be sent to ryad.benosman(a)upmc.fr <mailto:ryad.benosman@upmc.fr> and sio-hoi.ieng(a)upmc.fr <mailto:sio-hoi.ieng@upmc.fr>, please also mention in the email the earliest date at which you could join. Kind regards, S. ieng

Jan. 13, 2020

Master in Brain and Cognition being offered at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona

by Ruben Moreno Bote

Dear Comp-neuro members, The Master in Brain and Cognition being offered at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), Barcelona, Spain (http://www.upf.edu/mbc/) opens the rolling application period (final deadline is June 2020). 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) 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) Ruben Moreno-Bote (https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn) 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 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 Ruben Moreno-Bote, ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn https://twitter.com/morenobote <https://twitter.com/morenobote?lang=ca>

Jan. 13, 2020

Post-doctoral position Computational Neuroscience, Moreno-Bote Lab, Barcelona

by Ruben Moreno Bote

We are looking for strong post-doctoral candidates interested in joining the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote lab. We are looking for excellent post-doctoral candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background, ideally with knowledge of Neuroscience or Computational Neuroscience, and interested in theory and applications. The publication record of the candidate should be very strong in his/her respective discipline. The candidate will develop state of the art theory and models of cognition and intelligence by using neural networks, data analysis and multielectrode neural data. The main research topic of our lab is decision-making, from a multidisciplinary angle. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by HHMI, ICREA and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format, a 1 page-long project in pdf format, and names and email addresses of 2 referees should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu Informal inquiries are welcome. DEADLINE: up to the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between September 2020 and January 2021 -- Rubén Moreno Bote Serra Húnter & ICREA Academia Professor Center for Brain and Cognition & Dept. of Information and Communications Technologies University Pompeu Fabra Campus Ciutadella c\ Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 Mercè Rodoreda building, 3th floor (room 24.331) 08005 Barcelona, Spain https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn https://twitter.com/morenobote <https://twitter.com/morenobote?lang=ca>

Jan. 13, 2020

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote Lab

by Ruben Moreno Bote

PhD Position in Computational Neuroscience, Ruben Moreno-Bote Lab Center for Brain and Cognition, University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain 1 fully funded PhD position is available in the group of Theoretical and Cognitive Neuroscience of Ruben Moreno-Bote in the Center for Brain and Cognition at the University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. We are looking for excellent candidates with Physics, Mathematics or Machine Learning background interested in developing theory for the brain and mind. Knowledge of Computational Neuroscience or Neuroscience would be ideal, but it is not necessary. The candidate will develop state of the art theory and models of cognition and intelligence by using neural networks, data analysis and multielectrode neural data. The main research topic of our lab is decision-making, from a multidisciplinary angle. The candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of Barcelona area in Theoretical and Systems Neuroscience and will have the opportunity of enjoying a lively city. Our lab (https://www.upf.edu/web/tcn) forms part of a larger network of neuroscience labs in Barcelona. Financial support is provided by HHMI, ICREA and the Spanish MINECO. APPLICATION: A full CV in pdf format and an extract of grades for degree and master studies should be sent to the following address: ruben.moreno(a)upf.edu DEADLINE: until the position is filled STARTING DATE: any time between September 2020 and January 2021

Jan. 13, 2020

Research assistant (PhD position) in the European School of Network Neuroscience (EuSNN).

by Peter König

Research assistant (PhD position) in the European School of Network Neuroscience (EuSNN). About the project: EuSNN will integrate leading European groups in network neuroscience and deliver training on knowledge and skills that enable students to pursue a successful career in this emerging field. euSNN will combine and train all approaches relevant for investigation of brain networks, including (f)MRI, M/EEG, in-vivo recordings, analysis, modelling, network modulation with optogenetics or non-invasive neurostimulation and studies on network changes in neurological disorders. Be part of it. The tendered position is funded by a Marie Curie grant, in which we participate together with more than 10 top international Universities. (Secondments at several partner laboratories are part of the training.) The partner SciCovery will work on online assessment of stroke and PD patients with altered network dynamics and, thus, affected cognitive capacities, enables us to better understand the effects found in the lab and generalize them to the overall population. For this purpose the early stage researcher (ESR) will further develop the Labvanced platform (https://www.labvanced.com) , which is one of the most advanced internet systems for online research (web-based experiments). Labvanced offers researchers the possibility to create, share and record complex online experiments using an easy to use graphical interface. On top of this, we offer brand new features using latest web technologies, such as webcam based eyetracking, audio recordings, real time interaction for multiple participants. Labvanced is now used by many research institutes world-wide. About the job: This exciting job offer combines web development, scientific research and interaction with several other research groups, data analysis, and the experience of working in a startup environment. Funding is provided by the EU’s Marie Curie (Horizon 2020) program for 3 years with a full time contract. This position is tendered in collaboration with the research group of Prof. Peter König at the Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Osnabrück (Germany). Skills and Qualifications: Excellent MSc degree in Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Computational Neuroscience or related fields. Profound knowledge of at least one higher level programming language (e.g. Javascript, Python, Java). Interest in creating, conducting, and analyzing behavioral experiments. Be able to work independently in an organized and reliable manner. Experience with git workflows. English (Intermediate level or above) is required, both verbal and in writing. Please note the eligibility criteria for researchers in Marie Sklodowska-Curie ITNs: They must be in the first four years of his/her research career, not have a doctoral degree, and not have resided in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (i.e. Germany) for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date. Bonus Points: Interest to work in a startup environment and interaction within an international collaboration, including performing secondments at partner sites. Familiarity with JavaScript, HTML5, CSS3, Node.js. or databases. Proficient understanding of cross-browser and cross-platform (Windows, Linux, Android) compatibility issues. Experience with experimental designs and data analysis Interest to create online assessment tools for stroke and PD patients. Interested in community management and supporting other researchers on our platform. Key Responsibilities: Develop and improve features on the Labvanced platform. Implement a test battery / online assessment capabilities for stroke and PD patients to assess affected cognitive capacities. Monitoring during the data acquisition process and support for longitudinal studies on mobile systems. Collaborate with scientific partners of the Marie Curie consortium for the validation of the test battery and for the data analysis. Analyze the recorded behavioral data in a professional scientific way. Write up concise and meaningful summaries / presentations as well as prepare documents for peer-reviewed publications. What we offer: Obtain a PhD in Cognitive Science from the University of Osnabrück while working in an IT-startup! Opportunities for both local and international travel and present your work at several conferences and workshops. Flexibility in self organising your working hours and location. Work in close collaboration with the interdisciplinary Neurobiopsychology group of Prof. Dr. Peter König at the University of Osnabrück (see https://www.ikw.uni-osnabrueck.de/en/research_groups/neurobiopsychology.html ) Competitive salary with (full-time) employment for up to 3 years. Interested candidates please send your CV to: contact(a)labvanced.com, pkoenig(a)uos.de For further information about MSCA-ITN under EU H2020, see: https://ec.europa.eu/programmes/horizon2020/en/h2020-section/marie-sklodows… -- Prof. Dr. Peter König, Institute of Cognitive Science, University Osnabrück -- Prof. Dr. Peter König, Institute of Cognitive Science, University Osnabrück

Jan. 12, 2020

Postdoctoral Position at the University of Calgary

by Wilten Nicola

*POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLARSHIP* *UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY* *CHIMERA STATES IN NEURONAL CIRCUITS* The Complexity Science Group at the University of Calgary invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in the field of *complex* *networks* *and* *neuronal* *dynamics*. The successful applicant is expected to work closely with a multidisciplinary research team co-led by Dr. Wilten Nicola and Dr. Jörn Davidsen on questions related but not limited to the emergence of chimera states in circuits of neurons. Successful candidates are expected to primarily conduct theoretical and computational research in collaboration with a number of experimental and clinical partners. More information about the Complexity Science Group is available at www.ucalgary.ca/complexity/. Candidates should have received or will soon receive a PhD in mathematics, theoretical physics or a related discipline. Chimera states have been demonstrated previously in simple homogeneous Kuramoto oscillator systems, however, they have only been recently demonstrated to exist in physical systems. Postdoctoral candidates will be expected to have prior expertise in analyzing Wilson-Cowan or Kuramoto Oscillator systems, in addition to analyzing experimental data from in vivo and in vitro neural recordings. A general background in complex networks, neuroscience, computational physics or nonlinear dynamics is beneficial. The position will be sponsored by the University of Calgary’s Hotchkiss Brain Institute and targets candidates of the highest caliber. Possible start dates are between July 1, 2020 and January 1, 2021. The start date has to be within five years of being awarded a PhD degree. The position is for two years and includes an annual stipend of $50,000 including benefits. Applicants should submit their application package including a cover letter, CV with a list of publications, reprints of (up to) three most relevant publications, brief statement of research interests and their possible start dates in PDF format to wilten.nicola(a)ucalgary.ca or davidsen(a)phas.ucalgary.ca. Applicants should arrange for at least two letters of reference to be sent as well. Review of applications will begin February 3, 2020 and continue until the position is filled. For additional information and informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Wilten Nicola or Dr. Jörn Davidsen. *About the University of Calgary* The University of Calgary is a leading Canadian university located in the nation’s most enterprising city. The university has a clear strategic direction to become one of Canada’s top five research universities, where innovative teaching and groundbreaking research go hand in hand, and where we fully engage the communities we both serve and lead. The strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by our Gaelic motto, which translates to ‘I will lift up my eyes.’ *About Calgary* Named a cultural capital of Canada and one of the best places to live in the world, Calgary is a city of leaders – in business, community, philanthropy and volunteerism. Canada’s fastest-growing major city, is vibrant and multicultural with a population of more than 1,000,000. Calgarians benefit from the strongest economy in the nation and enjoy more days of sunshine per year than any other major Canadian city. Calgary is less than an hour’s drive from the majestic Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park and boasts the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America. *Wilten Nicola*, PhD Assistant Professor Cell Biology and Anatomy Department University of Calgary HMRB 113, 3330 Hospital Drive NW Calgary, Alberta, CANADA T2N 1N4 T: 1.403.220.4973 wilten.nicola(a)ucalgary.ca The University of Calgary is a global intellectual hub located in Canada’s most enterprising city. In our spirited, high-quality learning environment, students thrive in programs made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. Our strategy drives us to be recognized as one of Canada’s top five research universities, engaging the communities we both serve and lead. This strategy is called Eyes High, inspired by the university's Gaelic motto, which translates as 'I will lift up my eyes.' For more information, visit ucalgary.ca/eyeshigh.

Jan. 9, 2020

5th Workshop on Molecular Communications in Tampere, Finland, on May, 18th-20th, 2020

by Kerstin Lenk

Dear Madam or Sir, The 5th Workshop on Molecular Communications ( https://molecularcommunications.eu/) will be held in Tampere, Finland, on May, 18th-20th, 2020. Building on the success of the previous four workshops, this workshop will act as a hub of knowledge exchange of Molecular Communication Research in Europe with a focus on broadening the reach of the community into border disciplines. Disciplines we wish to attract include (but are not limited to): - Synthetic Biology - Systems Biology - Pharmacology - Inter/Intra Cellular Communication - Chemical Networks - Communication Engineering The workshop will deliver three profile keynote speeches in multidisciplinary topics and incorporates two focused tutorials aimed at young researchers. Moreover, the workshop will run three technical sessions focusing on emerging hot topics and will host three panel sessions. Please find some general information about the workshop in the attached PDF. Thank you very much for your consideration! With kind regards, Kerstin Lenk -- Dr. Kerstin Lenk Academy of Finland Postdoctoral Researcher Computational Biophysics and Imaging Group (CBIG)Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology BioMediTech, Tampere University Arvo Ylpön katu 34 33520 Tampere Finland Phone: +358 50 447 8470 E-mail: kerstin.lenk(a)tuni.fi Twitter: https://twitter.com/astrocytenet Website: https://research.tuni.fi/cbig/ *Human Potential Unlimited. *

Jan. 9, 2020

Postdoc in New York in computational neuroscience

by Ruben Coen-Cagli

**Apologies for cross posting Postdoc in New York in computational neuroscience The Laboratory for Computational Neuroscience<https://sites.google.com/site/rubencoencagli> (Coen-Cagli lab) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the Department of Systems and Computational Biology and Department of Neuroscience at Albert Einstein College of Medicine (AECOM) in New York City. We are looking for a highly creative and motivated individual to work on a NIH funded project<https://projectreporter.nih.gov/project_info_description.cfm?aid=9916219&ic…> that addresses perceptual grouping and segmentation, using visual psychophysics in human participants and machine learning algorithms for segmentation. The project is a collaboration with the laboratory of Pascal Mamassian<https://lsp.dec.ens.fr/en/member/647/pascal-mamassian> at Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris, and the fellow will have the opportunity for substantial interactions with and travel to the Mamassian lab. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, with an academic record of scientific excellence and independent research, and a keen interest in interdisciplinary approaches to biological and neural systems. The ideal candidate has substantial prior experience in either computer vision or visual psychophysics; a strong background in computational neuroscience; and advanced analytical and programming skills. Our lab studies how biological sensory systems interpret the surrounding environment. Topics include probabilistic representations of natural images, models of selectivity and variability in large cortical populations, perceptual uncertainty. We combine theories of probabilistic neural coding, computer vision and machine learning, psychophysics, and neurophysiology through collaborations. Close interaction and collaboration with other members of the lab and the department is anticipated. AECOM offers a vibrant interdisciplinary environment, with a growing systems and computational contingent. It is located in a quiet neighborhood of New York, only a short subway ride from Manhattan. Information about working at the AECOM, including benefits and housing for postdocs, can be found at: https://einsteinmed.org/research/belfer-institute/ The position starts in spring/summer 2020, and is funded for several years, with an initial one-year appointment and expectation of extension given satisfactory performance. Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with experience. Candidates should send a single pdf file, consisting of a 1-page motivation letter, CV, and publication list to ruben.coencagli(a)gmail.com. Furthermore, candidates should organize two letters of reference, to be sent to the same e-mail address. The position is open until filled. Albert Einstein College of Medicine is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Jan. 9, 2020

Reminder: Call for papers for Vision Research special issue on "Calibrating the visual system"

by Ruben Coen-Cagli

**Apologies for cross posting Calibrating the visual system Vision Research seeks contributions for a special issue entitled ‘Calibrating the visual system’. Visual systems evolved according to consistent characteristics of the environment and task demands of the species, but also to be malleable in order to adapt to specific perturbations in the stimulus and the observer. The special issue aims to integrate work on the calibration of visual processes in relation to the stable properties of natural scenes or to variations in the sensory stimulus or the individual’s sensory apparatus, in different visual domains and over different time scales. Of particular interest are processes of short, medium and long-term adaptation, and processes to maintain perceptual constancy, as well as processes that occur during visual development. We are also seeking papers concerned with the benefits, costs, and limitations of these adaptations for optimal encoding of visual information, and for learning and representing relevant stimuli in the environment. We are seeking both original research articles and reviews on this subject, covering diverse methods including psychophysics, physiology, neuroimaging, and computational modelling Guest Editors: Jenny Bosten, University of Sussex Ruben Coen Cagli, Albert Einstein College of Medicine Anna Franklin, University of Sussex Samuel Solomon, UCL Michael Webster, University of Nevada, Reno Submission Deadline: March 2020 Manuscripts are submitted through the Special Issue portal of the submission system and go through peer review as usual. Each article in the special issue is assigned a unique identifier and once the article is accepted will be published in a regular journal issue as soon as available. The unique identifier allows us to simultaneously add the article to the special issue on ScienceDirect which is gradually built up as individual articles are published online. We do provide Shared Link of the final published version to the corresponding authors with 50 days free access so that they can share it. Submission Instructions https://ees.elsevier.com/vr/<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fees.elsev…> Authors to select “VSI: Calibrating vision” as article type when submitting their special issue paper in EES. Guide for Authors for more details is https://www.elsevier.com/journals/vision-research/0042-6989/guide-for-autho…<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elsev…> <https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsites.goo…>

Jan. 9, 2020

Faculty positions at Imperial's EEE department on Robotics & Machine Learning (deadline: Jan 27)

by Dan Goodman

We are expanding our research activities in Robotics and Machine Learning at the Electrical and Electronic Engineering department at Imperial College, and we are looking to appoint up to 2 new permanent faculty (UK Lecturer/Senior Lecturer level, US equivalent is Assistant/Associate Prof) in the Intelligent Systems and Networks Group. More details here: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs/description/ENG01119/lecturersenior-lecture… These posts aren't intended for computational neuroscientists specifically, but might be interesting for someone who has worked applying computational neuroscience ideas to robotics or "intelligent systems" in a fairly applied way (i.e. actual robots not just simulators). Closing deadline is Jan 27th, so apply soon! Dan

Jan. 8, 2020

Up to 6 PhD fellowships in Cognitive Neuroscience at SISSA, Trieste, Italy, to start Oct, 2020

by Alessandro Treves

SISSA is an elite postgraduate research institution located in Trieste, Italy, and focused on Maths, Physics and Neuroscience. It operates in English: many among its students and faculty are not Italian. The Cognitive Neuroscience Department hosts 6 research labs that study the neuronal bases of time and magnitude processing, visual perception, motivation and intelligence, language and reading, tactile perception and learning, and neural computation. The Department is very inter–disciplinary; our approaches include behavioural, psychophysics, and neurophysiological experiments with humans and animals, as well as computational and mathematical models. Students with diverse backgrounds (physics, math, medicine, psychology, biology) are most welcome to apply. The Department has an exceptional track record with highly competitive funds (recent funding includes 4 ERC and 3 Human Frontiers grants) and publication in top journals (Nature, Science, PNAS, Current Biology). Recent placements after PhD include Harvard, MIT, Columbia and Princeton in the US; the NTNU, Manchester and Radboud in Europe; and Sydney University, Australia. Our alumni have been awarded 4 ERC grants, the 2015 Kandel Young Neuroscientist Prize and the 2017 ICTP Prize. More information about the Department is available at our website https://phdcns.sissa.it. The selection procedure is now open; to learn how to apply, please visit https://phdcns.sissa.it/admission-procedure. Please contact the PhD Coordinator (davide.crepaldi(a)sissa.it) and/or your prospective supervisor for more information and informal enquiries. -- Alessandro Treves SISSA, Cognitive Neuroscience, http://people.sissa.it/~ale/limbo.html if in, rm 241, via Bonomea 265, 34136 Trieste, Italy: +39-040-3787623

Jan. 8, 2020

Staff Scientist/Engineer Position at NIMH (Bethesda, MD)

by Dave Jangraw

HIRING: Staff Scientist/Engineer <https://github.com/djangraw/hiring/tree/master/Staff#who-we-are>Who we are: Drs. Daniel Pine <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-conducted-at-nimh/research-areas…> and David Jangraw <https://davidjangraw.wordpress.com/> are seeking applicants for a Scientist/Engineer position that would program and maintain experimental tasks and hardware for the study of pediatric mental illnesses in the Emotion and Development Branch <https://www.nimh.nih.gov/research/research-conducted-at-nimh/research-areas…>. Our aims are to better understand the causes and mechanisms of certain psychiatric disorders, improve their definition and classification, and ensure the best treatment can be offered to psychiatric patients. We do this by identifying neuroscience-based phenotypes that map onto clinical phenotypes, and which can be targeted with novel treatments. <https://github.com/djangraw/hiring/tree/master/Staff#what-you-will-do>What you will do: The candidate will help the lab apply cutting-edge data collection methods to research on anxiety and mood disorders in young people. They will work closely with post-doctoral fellows to develop new tasks in PsychoPy (some existing tasks are written in E-Prime). The candidate will discuss the post-doc's plans, advise them on technical aspects of the task, and write the task code. Many tasks must collect behavioral data and synchronize it with physiology and brain imaging data. They will also write and maintain pre-processing and/or analysis pipelines for data from these tasks. In addition, the candidate will install and maintain software and hardware required for data collection, including EyeLink eye trackers and Biopac physiology monitors. The candidate will work closely with the NIMH's functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) core when dealing with specialized hardware for use during brain scans. A motivated candidate could also advance the lab's new techniques, including wearable heart monitors and eye trackers, remote data collection with Amazon Mechanical Turk, Affectiva facial expression analysis, and iPhone app development. This is an extremely collaborative position that requires a blend of technical expertise and skilled communication. The candidate will assist about a dozen post-docs in 3 different research groups, balancing multiple projects at any given time. They must work with the post-docs and their principal investigators to establish priorities, timelines, and expectations. They must be comfortable working with team members who have different levels of technical experience. <https://github.com/djangraw/hiring/tree/master/Staff#who-you-are>Who you are: Candidates with a strong programming or engineering background who are interested in psychology and neuroscience are encouraged to apply. Requirements for this position include: - Bachelor's degree or (preferably) MS or PhD in computer science, engineering, neuroscience, or a related field - ≥3 years of programming experience in Python (preferably) or in R/Matlab - Strong organization skills and an ability to balance multiple projects - Excellent interpersonal and written (English) communication skills Desirable experience includes: - Research experience in psychology or neuroscience - Experience with PsychoPy or other experimental design software - Experience with eye tracking, physiology, or fMRI hardware - Knowledge of software for processing neuroimaging data <https://github.com/djangraw/hiring/tree/master/Staff#how-to-apply>How to apply: The successful candidate will work jointly with Drs. Daniel Pine and David Jangraw, as well as other staff and fellows in the Emotion and Development Branch. Please write to them (pined(a)mail.nih.gov, david.jangraw(a)nih.gov) with your CV, using the email as the cover letter. Other enquiries are also very welcome. The National Institutes of Health is an equal opportunity employer.

Jan. 6, 2020

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Neuroscience, University of Exeter, UK

by Roman Borisyuk

A Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in Computational Neuroscience is available at the University of Exeter, UK to work on a 3-year BBSRC-funded project, in collaboration with neurobiologists from the University of St Andrews. Vertebrate neural circuits can dynamically change their activity to generate an appropriate behaviour in response to a changing environment. This project asks how neural networks can switch between different behaviours. Specifically, you will investigate the dynamic transitions between two rhythmic activity patterns in the spinal circuits of the tadpole to discover the cellular and network mechanisms driving this transition. You will build and simulate biologically realistic models of neural activity from population to conductance-based level as well as probabilistic models of connectivity (Roberts et al., J Neurosci 2014; Borisyuk et al., PLOS One 2014; Ferrario et al., eLife 2018). You will be supported by experimental collaborators who have determined neuronal and network properties with an exquisite level of detail. Predictions from your simulations will be tested experimentally using an array of electrophysiology and imaging tools. Fundamental neuronal mechanisms are highly conserved across vertebrate species, so your results will provide insight on dynamic circuit reconfiguration in more complex neural networks in mammals. We are seeking an outstanding scientist with a PhD in computer science, mathematics, physics, or engineering. A strong experience in neuronal modelling and excellent programming skills (in languages such as C++, Python, MATLAB) are expected. The ideal candidate will be familiar with the nonlinear dynamics of neural activity, have experience in developing models of electrically excitable cells (e.g. Hodgkin-Huxley type), and possess knowledge in neurophysiology. Applicant should be highly motivated for research, have excellent organizational skills, and be able to communicate effectively with outstanding writing ability. The University of Exeter provides a vibrant environment for multidisciplinary studies. This is facilitated by the newly built Living Systems Institute, which promotes collaborations between neuroscientists, mathematicians, and computer scientists. Exeter is a mid-sized city in the South West of England, just a few miles from the beautiful Jurassic coast and wild moor lands. For more information about this job and to apply, please follow the link http://bit.ly/ResearchFellowExeter Enquiries: Dr Joel Tabak j.tabak(a)exeter.ac.uk Prof Roman Borisyuk r.m.borisyuk(a)exeter.ac.uk ________________________________ [http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/images/email_footer.gif]<http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/worldclass> This email and any files with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient then copying, distribution or other use of the information contained is strictly prohibited and you should not rely on it. If you have received this email in error please let the sender know immediately and delete it from your system(s). Internet emails are not necessarily secure. While we take every care, University of Plymouth accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. University of Plymouth does not accept responsibility for any changes made after it was sent. Nothing in this email or its attachments constitutes an order for goods or services unless accompanied by an official order form.

Jan. 6, 2020

CNS*2020 Melbourne: Call for Workshops and Tutorials

by Martin Zapotocky

Organization for Computational Neurosciences 2885 Sanford Ave SW #15359 Grandville, MI 49418 USA *Call for Workshops and Tutorials at the 29th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting (CNS*2020), Melbourne, July 18--22* We are requesting 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 with just a few of the headaches of actually organizing it. We are looking forward to your submissions. CALL FOR *WORKSHOPS* (see below and also https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-call-for-workshops <http://clicks.memberclicks-mail.net/wf/click?upn=l2WnPG7xcNg4BaXop0h67T8NXQ…>) Peter Jedlicka, Workshops Chair for CNS 2020 CALL FOR *TUTORIALS* (see below and also https://www.cnsorg.org/cns-2020-call-for-tutorials <http://clicks.memberclicks-mail.net/wf/click?upn=l2WnPG7xcNg4BaXop0h67T8NXQ…>) Anca Doloc-Mihu, Tutorials Chair for CNS 2020 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1. WORKSHOP PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR CNS 2020, MELBOURNE Workshops, in which computationally related neuroscience topics can be presented, will take place during the last two days (*July 21 and July 22, 2020*) of the 29th Annual Computational Neuroscience Meeting <http://clicks.memberclicks-mail.net/wf/click?upn=l2WnPG7xcNg4BaXop0h67T8NXQ…>. 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 21, with a keynote lecture and a poster session taking place in the afternoon. The morning of July 21 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 21 (workshops, keynote, poster session). The last day of the meeting, July 22, 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 21. They will thus offer the opportunity to attract a wider audience still present for the main meeting. Submit workshop proposals to *workshops AT cnsorg.org*. The Past Meetings page <http://clicks.memberclicks-mail.net/wf/click?upn=l2WnPG7xcNg4BaXop0h67bHV7A…> 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* (half-day, one or two days, there are 2 sessions per day) * *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 *one of the criteria* 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. For information on available financial support for accepted workshops, please *see the sections "Registration" and "Travel Awards" below*. *DEADLINE*: Workshops submitted before *January 31, 2020*, will be given priority in acceptance. Workshop proposals arriving after January 31, 2020, will be evaluated based on remaining space for additional workshops. No further workshop acceptances will be anticipated after *May 15, 2020*. Please address any questions to *workshops AT cnsorg.org*. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2. TUTORIAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS FOR CNS 2020, MELBOURNE 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 are held on the first day,*18 July 2020*, with a typical total attendance of ca. 100 students allowing for four concurrent sessions during the day. Three different formats are available: * Introductory FULL DAY courses * Specialized HALF DAY tutorials * 30 MINUTES software showcase As approved by the OCNS Board on July 13, 2019, accepted tutorials are eligible to receive maximum one travel award and tutorial registration waivers for 1-3 organizers depending on the length of the tutorial. Software showcase sessions do not receive any funding, travel award, or free registration. Submit tutorial proposals to *tutorials AT cnsorg.org*. Please compare it with the previous year's tutorials <http://clicks.memberclicks-mail.net/wf/click?upn=l2WnPG7xcNg4BaXop0h67T8NXQ…>. Note that our new format, the showcases, will be combined to 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, 2020*. Please address any questions to *tutorials AT cnsorg.org.* ------------------------------------------------------------------------ *Registration*: Workshop/tutorial registration will occur through the OCNS registration website for CNS*2020. All workshop/tutorial participants, including speakers, must register. Each workshop/tutorial is eligible to receive workshop/tutorial registration waivers for 1-3 speakers/organizers (depending on the length of the workshop/tutorial). *Travel awards*: A limited number of Travel Awards will be available for workshop/tutorial organizers or speakers (maximum one Travel Award per workshop/tutorial). Priority will be given to postdocs and early career faculty. Travel Award amounts will be variable, depending on distance traveled. Please indicate which speaker or organizer you would like to be considered for this mechanism. The Travel Awards Chair reserves the right to approve / not approve a travel award nomination, based on seniority considerations with preference given to young scientists. It is likely that there will be fewer travel awards than workshops.

Jan. 6, 2020

Postdoc (3 yrs) in neural dynamics underlying changes in movement

by Mark Humphries

A 3 year postdoc post is available in the lab of Prof Mark Humphries, at the University of Nottingham (UK) - closing date Jan 10th In this project, our aim is to test the overarching hypothesis that movement transitions are encoded by the same neural population reconfiguring its joint activity, for both rhythmic and discrete movements. We will tackle this question by developing new computational algorithms for dynamic systems, and applying them to newly-available population recordings during rhythmic movement transitions in Aplysia and discrete arm movement transitions in monkeys, The Humphries’ group researches fundamental insights into how the joint activity of neurons encodes information about and actions in the world. For more see: https://www.humphries-lab.org Queries: mark.humphries(a)nottingham.ac.uk Deadline: 10th January 2020 Full details, and to apply: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/SCI182819X1 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.

Jan. 6, 2020

CFP Special Session on "Neurocomputation and Cognition" WCCI-IJCNN 2020

by Alex Frid

*Special Session on "Neurocomputation and Cognition"* 2020 IEEE International Joint Conference on Neural Networks - World Congress on Computational Intelligence (IJCNN-WCCI) July 19-24 2020, Glasgow, UK *Important Dates:* Paper submission: 15 January 2020 Notification of acceptance: 15 March 2020 *Aims and Scope:* The field of neurocomputation is concerned with the possibility of computation in computers by following the paradigm and analysis of computation that occurs in neurons and the brain. In recent years this has resulted in breakthroughs in pattern recognition, machine learning theory, clustering, associative memory and fault tolerant computation. Consequently, the precision resulting from the computational and mathematical viewpoint has led to insights helping to clarify aspects of one of the ultimate human research endeavors: understanding the manner in which human thought emerges from the organization of the human brain. A session on this topic was presented in Rio de Janeiro IJCNN 2018 and was very successful. Extended papers developed from this session have been submitted to a special issue of the veteran journal Annals of Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence and this issue is scheduled to appear early in 2020. We will again look into the possibility of another special issue with an established veteran journal. *Topics:* The special session invites submissions in any of the following (and related) areas: - Neurocomputation techniques as related to human cognitive issues - Neurocomputational Models of Embodied Natural Language Processing - Understanding brain information processing underlying real-world tasks. - Validation of cognitive models using machine learning methods - Computational Biomarkers for Diseases - Computational Biomarkers for Cognitive Activity - Neurocomputational and Architectural Models of Creativity - Use of Neurocomputation and Machine Learning Tools to identify Physiological Features - Biologically Inspired Neural Computing - Analysis of Time Dependent Information in cognition *Submission:* https://ieee-cis.org/conferences/ijcnn2020/upload.php Under "Main research topic*" select “S51. Neurocomputation and Cognition” *More details at:* https://neurocomputation.wordpress.com/2020-ieee-wcci-special-session/ *Organizers:* Prof. Larry M. Manevitz – Director Neuro-computation Laboratory <https://neurocomputation.wordpress.com/>, Caesarea Rothschild Institute and Department of Computer Science, U. Haifa, Haifa, Israel and Department of Computer Science, Ariel University, Israel (corresponding organizer) manevitz(a)cs.haifa.ac.il Dr. Alex Frid – Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, The Technion (Israel Institute of Technology), Haifa, Israel, alex.frid(a)gmail.com Dr. Hananel Hazan – Levin Lab, Department of Biology <https://ase.tufts.edu/biology/labs/levin/>, Tufts University, Boston, USA, hananel(a)hazan.org.il, personal site <https://hananel.hazan.org.il/> Prof. Bernardete Ribeiro – Department of Computer Science, Coimbra University, Coimbra, Portugal, bribeiro(a)dei.uc.pt, personal site <https://eden.dei.uc.pt/~bribeiro/pagina/>

Jan. 5, 2020

Open PhD and PostDoc positions in Spiking Neural Network Learning

by Robert Legenstein

The Lab of Robert Legenstein at TU Graz is offering funded PhD and PostDoc positions in the area Deep Learning in Spiking Neural Networks for Neuromorphic and Memristive Hardware. A background in Deep Learning, Computer Science, or Mathematics is desirable, as well as evidence for excellent prior performance as a student. Successful candidates will work on learning algorithms for spiking neural networks in the interdisciplinary consortium of one of two projects: a) SYNCH (EU): We collaborate with Hardware experts who will implement the developed algorithms in cooperation with our team in a spiking neural network chip. The chip will be applied to various tasks within a brain-silicon hybrid system such as the classification of recorded brain network states. (see https://synch.eucoord2020.com/ for a description) b) SMALL (Chist-Era) We will develop learning algorithms for spiking neural networks and collaborate with experts for neuromorphic and memristive hardware with the goal to implement proof-of-concept ultra-low-power machine learning solutions. (see https://www.tugraz.at/institute/igi/people/prof-legenstein/projects/ for a brief description). Please send your application including a CV, any prior thesis and/or work by 31. Jan 2020 to robert.legenstein(a)igi.tugraz.at Dr. Robert Legenstein Institute Head Institute of Theoretical Computer Science Graz University of Technology Inffeldgasse 16b/I, 8010 Graz, Austria http://www.igi.tugraz.at/legi/ Follow @CompLegenstein on Twitter. ++43/316/873-5824 ----------------------------------

Jan. 5, 2020

Postdoctoral Swartz Fellowship Positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience at Yale University

by Murray, John

*** APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JANUARY 15, 2020. *** Postdoctoral Swartz Fellowship Positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience at Yale University The Swartz Center in Theoretical Neurobiology at Yale University invites applications for up to two postdoctoral positions in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience, with flexible start date in 2020. Competitive candidates include those with a strong quantitative background who wish to gain neuroscience research experience. We especially encourage candidates with an interest in collaborating directly with experimental neuroscientists. The candidates will be expected to perform theoretical/computational studies relevant to one or more laboratories of the Swartz Center at Yale (for a list of affiliated faculty, see: https://medicine.yale.edu/neuroscience/swartz/corelabs.aspx) and will be encouraged to participate in an expanding quantitative biology environment. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree by the time of beginning the fellowship. Please send a Curriculum Vitae, selected reprints, contact information for three references, and a statement of research interests including the laboratories of interest at Yale. All application materials should be sent electronically to the following e-mail address: john.murray(a)yale.edu<mailto:john.murray@yale.edu> Applications will be reviewed as they are received, but priority will be given to those received on or before January 15th, 2020. For any questions, please contact John Murray<mailto:john.murray@yale.edu?subject=Swartz%20fellowship>. Yale University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Yale values diversity in its faculty, students, and staff and especially welcomes applications from women and underrepresented minorities. John D. Murray ----------------------------------------------- Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry Yale University School of Medicine murraylab.yale.edu<http://murraylab.yale.edu/> -----------------------------------------------

Jan. 4, 2020

Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience at Emory

by Prinz, Astrid A

Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience Prinz lab, Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to model sympathetic neurons and circuits and their plasticity and homeostasis in the context of spinal cord injury. The position is part of an NIH-funded, collaborative research project with the Hochman lab at Emory’s Department of Physiology. The Prinz lab is embedded in a highly interactive research environment of multiple computational and experimental neuroscience labs in the Department of Biology, at Emory University, and in the wider Atlanta area neuroscience community. The ideal candidate has a strong background in neuroscience and computer modeling. Experience with electrophysiology is desirable, although not required. The position is available immediately. Further information on the lab is located at http://www.biology.emory.edu/research/Prinz/index.html. To apply, please submit a CV, description of research interests, and contact information for two references to astrid.prinz(a)emory.edu<mailto:astrid.prinz@emory.edu> . Pre-application inquiries are also accepted at the same address. ________________________________ This e-mail message (including any attachments) is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this message (including any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender by reply e-mail message and destroy all copies of the original message (including attachments).

Jan. 3, 2020

CfP 29th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks ICANN 2020, Sept 15-18, Bratislava, SK

by Paolo Masulli ENNS

29th International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks ICANN 2020 https://e-nns.org/icann2020 *Bratislava, Slovakia** **15 - 18 September 2020* ============================================================ The International Conference on Artificial Neural Networks (ICANN) is the annual flagship conference of the European Neural Network Society (ENNS). In 2020 the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics (FMPI), Comenius University in Bratislava, together with the Slovak Society for Cognitive Science, organize the 29th ICANN Conference from the 15th to the 18th of September 2020 in Bratislava, Slovakia. *CONFERENCE TOPICS* ICANN 2020 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. *CALL FOR CONTRIBUTED SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATIONS* All scientific communications presented at ICANN 2020 will be reviewed and scientifically evaluated by a panel of experts. The conference will feature two categories of communications: - oral communications (15'+5') - poster communications Call for Special Sessions: ICANN2020 organizers cordially invite internationally recognised experts to organise Special sessions and workshops within the general scope of the conference. Special Session Proposal request should be sent to icann2020(a)fmph.uniba.sk Call for Papers: Authors willing to present original contributions in either oral or poster category may submit: - A full paper of about 10-12 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series with individual DOI. - An extended abstract of suggested 4 pages to be published in Springer-Verlag Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS) series, without indexing. 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 selection 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: https://e-nns.org/icann2020/ *IMPORTANT DATES* Deadline for special sessions submission: 1 February 2020 Opening of contribution submissions: 1 February 2020 *Deadline for full papers and extended abstracts submission: 15 March 2020* Notification of acceptance: 1 May 2020 Camera-ready paper upload and registration opening: 1 June 2020 Deadline for early registration at discount rate: 15 June 2020 Conference dates: 15-18 September 2020 *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 awards 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 will be provided on the conference website. *ORGANISATION* General Chairs: Igor Farkaš (FMPI, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Ľubica Beňušková (FMPI, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Organising Committee Chairs: Juraj Bánovský (FMPI, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia), Alessandra Lintas (ENNS Lausanne, Switzerland) Honorary Chairs: Stefan Wermter, University in Hamburg, Germany (ENNS President) Věra Kůrková, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia (past ENNS President) Publicity Chair: Kristína Malinovská (FMPI, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia) Communication Chair: Paolo Masulli (Technical University of Denmark, ENNS) -- Paolo Masulli ENNS

Jan. 3, 2020

[CFP] Call for Abstracts: Symposium on Advances in Neural Modelling of Multisensory Integration at the 20th International Multisensory Research Forum (IMRF) in Ulm, Germany, June 22-25, 2020

by Danish Shaikh

Dear colleagues, Happy New Year to you all! I am planning to organise a symposium on "Advances in Neural Modelling of Multisensory Integration" at the 20th International Multisensory Research Forum (https://cops.ifp.uni-ulm.de/imrf2020/index.php) hosted by Ulm University in Germany, June 22-25, 2020. The goal of this symposium to bring together researchers working on neural models of multisensory integration (MSI) via mathematical/computational/machine learning/AI approaches to present their work and to discuss promising future directions and applications. In this regard, I would like to request potential contributors to contact me at danish(a)mmmi.sdu.dk<mailto:danish@mmmi.sdu.dk> with a title and abstract (max. 250 words), latest by 19 January 2020. The symposium will allow for the presentation of abstracts as a 15-minute oral presentation with additional time for Q&A. Potential topics for abstract submissions to the symposium include (but are not limited to): * Mathematical/computational/machine learning/connectionist/AI approaches to modelling MSI * Single-neuron and/or network models of neural mechanisms underlying multisensory binding, cue combination, multisensory effects and developmental MSI * Neural plasticity, learning and memory models for MSI * Applications of MSI models IMPORTANT DATES: Title and abstract submission deadline: 19 January 2020 (Anywhere on Earth time - https://time.is/Anywhere_on_Earth) Notification of acceptance: TBA IMRF 2020 conference dates: 22-25 June 2020 IMRF 2020 VENUE: "Donauhalle" next to the Danube river in beautiful Ulm, Germany SYMPOSIUM ORGANISERS: Danish Shaikh, University of Southern Denmark (danish(a)mmmi.sdu.dk<mailto:danish@mmmi.sdu.dk>) Best regards Danish Shaikh Assistant Professor SDU Bioinspired Robotics, The Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute T +45 65 50 95 26 <tel:+4565509526> danish(a)mmmi.sdu.dk <mailto:danish@mmmi.sdu.dk> University of Southern Denmark Campusvej 55 DK-5230 Odense M www.sdu.dk <http://www.sdu.dk> [http://cdn.sdu.dk/img/sdulogos/SDU_BLACK_signatur.png]

Jan. 3, 2020

Job Opening: Professor / Associate Professor / Assistant Professor (Computer Science) at Hong Kong Baptist University

by COMP HKBU

The Department of Computer Science at Hong Kong Baptist University, presently offers BSc, MSc, MPhil, and PhD programmes, is now seeking outstanding applicants for the following faculty positions on tenure-track. *Professor / Associate Professor / Assistant Professor (Computer Science) (PR0311/18-19) * The appointees will perform high-impact research; to teach and manage programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as to contribute to professional and institutional services. Collaboration with other faculty members in research and teaching is also expected. They will be encouraged to collaborate with colleagues within the Department to contribute to two special thematic applications including (a) health informatics and (b) secure and privacy-aware computing, and/or outside the Department to contribute to interdisciplinary research projects under our University’s Research Cluster on Data Analytics and A.I. in X. Applicants should possess a PhD degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field, and sufficiently demonstrate abilities to conduct high-quality research in one of the Department’s key research areas: (i) computational intelligence, (ii) databases and information management, (iii) networking and systems, and (iv) pattern recognition and machine learning. Applicants should also show strong commitment to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in computer science and/or information systems, possess track record of innovative research and high-impact publications, and be able to bid for and pursue externally-funded research programmes. Special consideration will be given to candidates with research background related to financial technologies, and secure and privacy-aware computing. Initial appointment will be made on a fixed-term contract of three years. Re-appointment thereafter will be subject to mutual agreement. For enquiry, please contact Dr. William Cheung, Head of Department (email: william(a)comp.hkbu.edu.hk) More information about the Department can be found at http://www.comp.hkbu.edu.hk. Those who have responded to the advertisement posted in March 2019 need not re-apply. *Rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.* *Application Procedure*: Applicants are invited to submit their applications at the HKBU e-Recruitment System (jobs.hkbu.edu.hk) with samples of publications, preferably three best ones out of their most recent publications/works. Applicants should also request two referees to send in confidential letters of reference, with PR number (stated above) quoted on the letters, to the Personnel Office (Email: recruit(a)hkbu.edu.hk) direct. Those who are not invited for interview 4 months after the closing date may consider their applications unsuccessful. All application materials including publication samples, scholarly/creative works will be disposed of after completion of the recruitment exercise. Details of the University’s Personal Information Collection Statement can be found at http://pers.hkbu.edu.hk/pics. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment for the posts advertised, and the appointment will be made according to the terms and conditions applicable at the time of offer. Closing Date: *25 January 2020 (or until the positions are filled)* URL: https://www.comp.hkbu.edu.hk/v1/?page=job_vacancies&id=503

Jan. 2, 2020

PhD AND POSTDOC POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE IN BASEL, SWITZERLAND

by Rava A. da Silveira

*Several DOCTORAL and POSTDOCTORAL openings in the lab of RAVA AZEREDO DA SILVEIRA at the IOB, University of Basel* We invite applications for several Ph.D. and postdoctoral positions at the IOB, University of Basel, in Switzerland. Research questions will be chosen from a broad range of topics in theoretical/computational neuroscience and cognitive science (see the description of the lab’s activity, below). Candidates with backgrounds in mathematics, statistics, artificial intelligence, physics, computer science, engineering, biology, and psychology are welcome. Experience with data analysis and proficiency with numerical methods, in addition to familiarity with neuroscience topics and mathematical and statistical methods, are desirable. Equally desirable are a spirit of intellectual adventure, eagerness, and drive. Doctoral and postdoctoral salaries will be highly competitive. *Deadline* For full consideration, please apply by 30 January 2020. *How to apply* Please send a letter of motivation, a statement of research interests limited to two pages, a curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and any relevant publications to rava(a)iob.ch, and arrange for three letters of recommendations to be sent to the same address. In all email correspondence, please include the mention “APPLICATION-BASEL-PHD” or “APPLICATION-BASEL-POSTDOC” in the subject header, otherwise the application will not be considered. *Description of the lab’s activity* Rava Azeredo da Silveira’s lab focuses on a range of topics in theoretical and computational neuroscience and cognitive science. These topics, however, are tied together through a central question: How does the brain represent and manipulate information? Among the more concrete approaches to this question, the lab analyses and models neural activity in circuits that can be identified, recorded from, and perturbed experimentally, such as visual neural circuits in the retina and the cortex. Establishing links between physiological specificity and the structure of neural activity yields an understanding of circuits as building blocks of cerebral information processing. On a more abstract level, the lab investigates the representation of information in populations of neurons, from a statistical and algorithmic -- rather than mechanistic -- point of view, through theories of coding and data analyses. These studies aim at understanding the statistical nature of high-dimensional neural activity in different conditions, and how this serves to encode and process information from the sensory world. In the context of cognitive studies, the lab investigates mental processes such as inference, learning, and decision-making, through both theoretical developments and behavioral experiments. A particular focus is the study of neural constraints and limitations and, further, their impact on mental processes. Neural limitations impinge on the structure and variability of mental representations, which in turn inform the cognitive algorithms that produce behavior. The lab explores the nature of neural limitations, mental representations, and cognitive algorithms, and their interrelations.

Dec. 29, 2019

PhD AND POSTDOC POSITIONS IN COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE AT ENS, PARIS

by Rava A. da Silveira

*Several DOCTORAL and POSTDOCTORAL openings in the lab of RAVA AZEREDO DA SILVEIRA at the Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris* We invite applications for several Ph.D. and postdoctoral positions at the Ecole Normale Supérieure, in Paris. Research questions will be chosen from a broad range of topics in theoretical/computational neuroscience and cognitive science (see the description of the lab’s activity, below). Candidates with backgrounds in mathematics, statistics, artificial intelligence, physics, computer science, engineering, biology, and psychology are welcome. Experience with data analysis and proficiency with numerical methods, in addition to familiarity with neuroscience topics and mathematical and statistical methods, are desirable. Equally desirable are a spirit of intellectual adventure, eagerness, and drive. Doctoral and postdoctoral salaries will be competitive, appreciably higher than standard French salaries. The ENS, together with a number of neighboring institutions (College de France, Institut Curie, ESPCI, Sorbonne Université, and Institut Pasteur), offers a rich scientific and intellectual environment, with a strong representation in computational neuroscience and related fields. *Deadline:* For full consideration, please apply by 30 January 2020. *How to apply:* Please send a letter of motivation, a statement of research interests limited to two pages, a curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and any relevant publications to rava(a)ens.fr, and arrange for three letters of recommendations to be sent to the same address. In all email correspondence, please include the mention “APPLICATION-PARIS-PHD” or “APPLICATION-PARIS-POSTDOC” in the subject header, otherwise the application will not be considered. *Description of the lab’s activity:* Rava Azeredo da Silveira’s lab focuses on a range of topics in theoretical and computational neuroscience and cognitive science. These topics, however, are tied together through a central question: How does the brain represent and manipulate information? Among the more concrete approaches to this question, the lab analyses and models neural activity in circuits that can be identified, recorded from, and perturbed experimentally, such as visual neural circuits in the retina and the cortex. Establishing links between physiological specificity and the structure of neural activity yields an understanding of circuits as building blocks of cerebral information processing. On a more abstract level, the lab investigates the representation of information in populations of neurons, from a statistical and algorithmic -- rather than mechanistic -- point of view, through theories of coding and data analyses. These studies aim at understanding the statistical nature of high-dimensional neural activity in different conditions, and how this serves to encode and process information from the sensory world. In the context of cognitive studies, the lab investigates mental processes such as inference, learning, and decision-making, through both theoretical developments and behavioral experiments. A particular focus is the study of neural constraints and limitations and, further, their impact on mental processes. Neural limitations impinge on the structure and variability of mental representations, which in turn inform the cognitive algorithms that produce behavior. The lab explores the nature of neural limitations, mental representations, and cognitive algorithms, and their interrelations.

Dec. 29, 2019

Postdoctoral Positions in Theoretical Neuroscience @ Higher School of Economics, Moscow Russia

by boris gutkin

Post-doctoral position in Theoretical Neuroscience DEADLINE 9 February More Information: https://iri.hse.ru/cognitive_neuroscience3 <https://iri.hse.ru/cognitive_neuroscience3> Application link: https://iri.hse.ru/polls/323647081.html The Higher School of Economics Centre for Cognition & Decision Making <https://www.hse.ru/en/cdm-centre/> of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience in Moscow, Russia, invites applications for postdoctoral research positions in computational and mathematical approaches to understanding neural function and cognition at Theoretical Neuroscience Group (TNG). Research interests of the TNG at the Centre for Cognition and Decision Making 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. Application Process Applications must be submitted online. Please provide a CV, a statement of research interest and a recent research paper submitted via an online application form. At least two letters of recommendation should be sent directly to the International Faculty Recruitment Office at fellowship(a)hse.ru <mailto:fellowship@hse.ru> before the application deadline. Please note that direct applications to the hiring department may not be reviewed. More information can be also obtained from boris.gutkin(a)hse.ru

Dec. 28, 2019

COSYNE 2020: Registration; Travel grants; Cosyne Tutorials

by Tomas Hromadka

==================================================== Computational and Systems Neuroscience 2020 (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 27 February - 01 March 2020 Denver, Colorado WORKSHOPS 02 March - 03 March 2020 Breckenridge, Colorado www.cosyne.org ==================================================== IMPORTANT DATES Online registration is now open. Travel grant submission is now open. Travel grant application deadlines *31 December 2019, 11.59PM PST (Undergraduate Travel Grant)* 14 January 2020, 11.59PM PST (Other travel grants) ----------------------------------------------- TRAVEL GRANTS ----------------------------------------------- Applications are now open for travel grants to attend the conference. Each awardee will receive at least $500 to help offset the costs of travel, registration, and accommodations. Larger grants may be available to those traveling from outside North America. Special consideration is given to scientists who have not previously attended the meeting, under-represented minorities, students who are attending the meeting together with a mentor, undergraduate students, and authors of submitted Cosyne abstracts. We currently offer five travel grant programs for New Attendees, Presenters, Mentors, Undergraduates, and Childcare travel grants. For details on applying, see Cosyne.org -> Travel grants. ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE TUTORIALS ---------------------------------------------------- Cosyne 2019 will host two tutorial sessions on 27 February 2020. For details on Cosyne tutorials please visit Cosyne.org -> Tutorials 20. Tutorial 1: Cosyne 2020 Tutorial session sponsored by the Simons Foundation Topic: Normative approaches to understanding neural coding and behavior Speaker: Ann Hermundstad Ann Hermundstad is a Group Leader in the Computation & Theory research core at Janelia Research Campus. She studies how the brain creates and uses adaptive sensorimotor representations to generate flexible behavior. Her lab uses a combination of theory, modeling, and data analysis to explore how neural circuits can do this efficiently and flexibly, and works in close collaboration with experimentalists to test these ideas in biological systems. We are recruiting TAs for the tutorial session. If interested, please see Cosyne.org -> Tutorials 20 for details on how to apply. Tutorial 2 Topic: Neurodata without Borders Tutorial NWB is a data standard for neurophysiology, providing neuroscientists with a common standard to share, archive, use, and build common analysis tools for neurophysiology data. Navigating the Allen Brain Observatory ---------------------------------------------------- BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENCE AWARD ---------------------------------------------------- The Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) is invested in supporting the next generation of top autism researchers. The Bridge to Independence grant program promotes talented early-career scientists by facilitating their transition to research independence and providing grant funding at the start of their professorships (https://www.sfari.org/2018/06/15/bridge-to-independence-award-request-for-a…) ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE ---------------------------------------------------- The annual Cosyne meeting provides an inclusive forum for the exchange of empirical and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience, in order to understand how neural systems function. The MAIN MEETING is single-track. A set of invited talks is selected by the Executive Committee, and additional talks and posters are selected by the Program Committee, based on submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS feature in-depth discussion of current topics of interest, in a small group setting. For details on workshop proposals please see below or visit Cosyne.org -> Workshops. Cosyne topics include but are not limited to: neural basis of behavior, sensory and motor systems, circuitry, learning, neural coding, natural scene statistics, dendritic computation, neural basis of persistent activity, nonlinear receptive field mapping, representations of time and sequence, reward systems, decision-making, synaptic plasticity, map formation and plasticity, population coding, attention, and computation with spiking networks. This year we would like to foster increased participation from experimental groups as well as computational ones. Please circulate widely and encourage your students and postdocs to apply. COSYNE INVITED SPEAKERS Matthew Botvinick (Deepmind/Princeton) Megan Carey (Champalimaud) John Cunningham (Columbia) Gul Dolen (Hopkins) Rainer Friedrich (FMI Basel) Sam Gershman (Harvard) Lisa Giocomo (Stanford) Christopher Harvey (Harvard) Mehrdad Jazayeri (MIT) Wei Ji Ma (NYU) Hendrikje Nienborg (Tuebingen/NIH) Linda Wilbrecht (Berkeley) Marta Zlatic (Janelia) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE General Chairs: Eugenia Chiappe (Champalimaud) and Christian Machens (Champalimaud) Program Chairs: Anne-Marie Oswald (U Pittsburgh) and Srdjan Ostojic (Ecole Normale Superieure Paris) Workshop Chairs: Catherine Hartley (NYU) and Blake Richards (McGill) Undergraduate Travel Chairs: Angela Langdon (Princeton) and Robert Wilson (U Arizona) Diversity Chairs: Eva Dyer (Georgia Tech, Emory) and Eric Shea-Brown (U Washington) Publicity Chair: Adam Calhoun (Princeton) Development Chair: Michael Long (NYU) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Stephanie Palmer (U Chicago) Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud) Alexandre Pouget (U Geneva) Anthony Zador (CSHL) CONTACT meeting [at] cosyne.org ---------------------------------------------------- COSYNE MAILING LISTS ---------------------------------------------------- Please consider adding yourself to Cosyne mailing lists (groups) to receive email updates with various Cosyne-related information and join in helpful discussions. See Cosyne.org -> Mailing lists for details.

Dec. 28, 2019

PhD Studentship in Neural Data Science, Computational Neuromodulation and Metalearning

by Wong-Lin, Kongfatt

Applications are invited for a Ph.D. studentship in Neural Data Science, Computational Neuromodulation and Metalearning, tenable in the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Ulster University, UK. This PhD project is a collaboration between Ulster University and the University of Oxford (amongst other collaborators) on the computational modelling and theoretical development of neuromodulation in decision-making and learning. For more information, please refer to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege/find-a-phd/512105 The application process for the Ph.D. studentship is opened with a closing date for applications on the 7th February 2020. The computational and cognitive neuroscience research community at the Intelligent Systems Research Centre at Ulster University focuses on both fundamental brain and behavioural sciences, and their applications, including neuro-inspired AI, neural engineering and neurotechnology, and clinical neuroscience. The successful PhD candidate will be based at the Research Centre while interacting closely with collaborators at the University of Oxford and other international research institutes. If you wish to discuss your application or enquire more about this Ph.D. studentship, please contact: Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin (k.wong-lin(a)ulster.ac.uk<mailto:k.wong-lin@ulster.ac.uk>). ------------------- Dr. KongFatt Wong-Lin Intelligent Systems Research Centre School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment Ulster University Magee Campus UK https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-wong-lin This email and any attachments are confidential and intended solely for the use of the addressee and may contain information which is covered by legal, professional or other privilege. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager at postmaster(a)ulster.ac.uk and delete this email immediately. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Ulster University. The University's computer systems may be monitored and communications carried out on them may be recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. Ulster University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of a separate attachment, the text of email is not intended to form a binding contract. Correspondence to and from the University may be subject to requests for disclosure by 3rd parties under relevant legislation. The Ulster University was founded by Royal Charter in 1984 and is registered with company number RC000726 and VAT registered number GB672390524.The primary contact address for Ulster University in Northern Ireland is Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT52 1SA

Dec. 27, 2019

Funded PhD and Data scientist positions

by Abhishek Banerjee

Dear colleagues, Two funded *Ph.D. positions* are available in the newly established Adaptive Decision-making lab as a part of Neuroscience, Neurodisability and Neurological Disorders research theme, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, UK. The research carried out as part of th Ph.D fellowship will investigate the role of behaviourally relevant neural circuits in decision-making and its dysfunctions in neurological disorders using experimental and theoretical approaches (PNAS 2016; BRAIN 2019; bioRxiv 2020). Exciting local and international collaborations will ensure a high standard of training and mentorship. The position is funded (UK/EU rate) for up to 3.5 years and the application deadline is *6th January 2020*. Application details can be found here or by email provided below: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/mrc-dimen-doctoral-training-partnersh… . Additionally, the Banerjee Lab is also hiring a *Data Scientist* to be involved in projects that focus on understanding cortical computation during behaviour by combining large-scale recordings and imaging of neuronal populations. This person will be involved in analysing experimental data, developing software tools, and helping with data infrastructure. The application deadline is *31st January 2020*. Qualifications for the Data scientist position: - M.Sc. degree (or exceptional B.Sc.) in Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related technical field. - Programming experience in MATLAB is required, and additional experience in Python and LABView is preferred. - Background in computational neuroscience, image analysis, or machine learning is a plus. For informal inquiry, or if interested in applying for the Data scientist position, please submit a CV along with names of 3 referees to: Dr. Abhi Banerjee <abhi.banerjee(a)newcastle.ac.uk>. More details here: https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/11499/overview and http://neuronic.mit.edu/ Best wishes, Abhi -- Abhishek Banerjee Senior Lecturer Head, Adaptive Decision-making Lab Biosciences Institute Newcastle University United Kingdom I neuronic.mit.edu Skype: amiappu I @abhii_mit

Dec. 25, 2019

Announcing Okinawa/OIST Computational Neuroscience Course 2020

by Erik De Schutter

OKINAWA/OIST COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE COURSE 2020 Methods, Neurons, Networks and Behaviors June 29 to July 16, 2020 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 29th through July 16th, 2020 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, 2020. Applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance in March. Like in preceding years, the 17th 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: • Michael Berry II (Princeton University, USA) • Tiago Branco (Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, London, UK) • Zenas C Chao (University of Kyoto, Japan) • Erik De Schutter (OIST) • Kenji Doya (OIST) • Gaute Einevoll (Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Norway) • Tomoki Fukai (OIST) • Boris Gutkin (Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France) • Bernd Kuhn (OIST) • Devika Narain (Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands) • Alex Pouget (University of Geneva, Switzerland) • Ivan Soltesz (Stanford University, USA) • Saori C. Tanaka (ATR, Japan) • Tatjana Tchumatchenko (Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfur, Germany) • Marylka Yoe Uusisaari (OIST)

Dec. 23, 2019

NeuroBridges 2020 Summer School Announcement

by Ahmed El Hady

*/NeuroBridges 2020 Summer school , Cluny, France/* */( September 6th - September 17th, 2020)/* */ /* I would like to bring to your attention the NeuroBridges 2020 Summer School <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2020.html> <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2020.html> NeuroBridges <https://www.facebook.com/NeuroBridges/>is a one-of-a-kind series of scientific meetings in brain research, which brings together Mediterranean and Middle Eastern scientists, in order to promote international scientific cooperation in system and computational neuroscience. A major goal of this school is to serve as a bridge between experimental and theoretical neuroscientists, addressing system-level questions. This year the school will primarily focus on the neural basis and computational principles underlying decision making. *The forthcoming NeuroBridges 2020*will be a ten-day summer school. Students will attend lectures delivered by a group of leading neuroscientists, experimentalists as well as theoreticians, which will address the fundamental questions in the field of decision making. In addition to the lectures, the students will work in groups on small research projects. The school is intended for graduate students and postdocs, primarily (but not only) from the Middle East and the Mediterranean region either working in their home countries or abroad. We will consider applicants with some background in related fields in neuroscience or cognitive psychology. Through the online application system, you will be asked to provide personal details, academic background, a motivation letter that should include a paragraph about your quantitative skills and a CV. In addition, we request two recommendation letters. The school will take place between *September 6 and September 17, 2020* in Le Centre de Conferences Internationales de Cluny (CCIC) <http://www.ccic.eu/index.html>. Cluny is a small medieval town in Burgundy, France, located about 400km southeast of Paris (accessible by fast train, TGV). All costs of registration and accommodation will be covered by the organizers. A limited number of travel grants will also be available. *NeuroBridges* is co-organized by Ahmed El Hady <http://scholar.princeton.edu/ahmedelhady/home> (Princeton Neuroscience Institute, USA), Yonatan Loewenstein <http://elsc.huji.ac.il/loewenstein/home>(Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel) and David Hansel <https://neurophys.biomedicale.parisdescartes.fr/members/david-hansel/> (CNRS, Paris, France). Review of applications will end in May 2020. *2020 Faculty:* Carlos Brody (Princeton) <https://pni.princeton.edu/faculty/carlos-brody> Ahmed El Hady (Princeton) <http://scholar.princeton.edu/ahmedelhady/home> David Hansel (CNRS) <https://neurophys.biomedicale.parisdescartes.fr/members/david-hansel/> Ifat Levy (Yale) <https://medicine.yale.edu/profile/ifat_levy> Yonatan Loewenstein (Hebrew U.) <https://elsc.huji.ac.il/faculty-staff/yonatan-loewenstein> Najib Majaj (NYU) <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Najib_Majaj> Mike Shadlen (Columbia U.) <https://neuroscience.columbia.edu/profile/michaelshadlen> Eyal Winter (Hebrew U.) <http://www.ma.huji.ac.il/%7Emseyal/> Yoram Yovell (Hadassah Hebrew U. Medical Center) <http://yovell.co.il/en/> The deadline for application is *April 1st, 2020 *and the following is the website including the link for the online application: http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2020.html <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2019.html> <http://decision-making-lab.com/NeuroBridges/neurobridges2019.html> For more information, please contact neurobridges2020(a)gmail.com <mailto:neurobridges2018@gmail.com>.

Dec. 22, 2019

Call for Papers: Workshop on Machine Learning and Computational Intelligence in multi-omics and medical image analysis, 5-7 June, Greece

by Tiago Azevedo

Dear all, Below find the call for papers for the workshop "Machine Learning and Computational Intelligence in multi-omics and medical image analysis (MALCI_MUOMI 2020)". It will be held during the 2020 AIAI conference, collocated with EANN 2020, the 21st International Conference on engineering Applications of Neural Networks. This will be held 5-7 June 2020, Porto Carras Grand Resort, Halkidiki Greece. **Important Dates** Paper Submission Deadline: 29th of February 2020 Notification of Acceptance/Rejection: 22nd of March 2020 Camera Ready Submission/Registration: 2nd of April 2020 Early / Author registration by: 2nd of April 2020 Conference Dates: 5-7 June, 2020 **Link for submissions** http://www.aiai2020.eu/malci_muomi2020/#submission **Aim and scope** There is an increasing need for the application of Machine Learning (ML) and Computational Intelligence (CI) techniques, which can effectively perform image processing operations (such as segmentation, co-registration, classification, and dimensionality reduction), in the fields of neuroimaging and oncological imaging. Although the manual approach often remains the golden standard in some tasks (e.g., segmentation), ML can be exploited to automate and facilitate the work of researchers and clinicians. Frequently used techniques include Support Vector Machines (SVMs) for classification problems, graph-based methods, and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). More recently, deep ANNs have shown to be very successful in computer vision tasks owing to the ability to automatically extract hierarchical descriptive features from input images. It has also been used in the oncological and neuroimaging domains for automatic disease diagnosis, tissue segmentation, and even synthetic image generation. The main issue, however, remains the relative sample paucity of the typical imaging datasets that leads to a poor generalisation of the employed deep ANNs, considering the high number of required parameters. Consequently, parameter-efficient design paradigms, specifically tailored to medical applications, ought to be devised, also by exploiting CI-based techniques (e.g., neuroevolution). In this context, these advanced ML techniques can be suitably exploited to combine heterogeneous sources of information, allowing for multi-omics data integration. Such a kind of analyses may represent a significant step towards personalised medicine. Topics of interest include but are not limited to: · ML techniques for segmentation, co-registration, classification, or dimensionality reduction of medical images · Deep neural networks for medical image super-resolution, de-noising and synthesis · Deep Learning for neuroimaging and oncological imaging analysis · Integration of multi-omics data · Brain network analysis · Application of graph theory to MRI and functional MRI (fMRI) data · Application of ML methods for neurodegenerative disease studies · Computational modelling and analysis of neuroimaging · Methods of analysis for structural or functional connectivity · Development of new neuroimaging tools · Radiomic analyses for tumour phenotypes · Radiogenomics for intra- and inter-tumoural heterogeneity evaluation · Generative adversarial models for data augmentation and image super-resolution · CI methods for optimizing medical image analysis tasks **Workshop Organizing Committee** Tiago Azevedo – Department of Computer Science and Technology , University of Cambridge, Cambridge, (UK) Giovanna Maria Dimitri – Department of Computer Science and Technology , University of Cambridge, Cambridge (UK), Department of Medicine, University of Siena (Italy) Prof Pietro Liò – Department of Computer Science and Technology , University of Cambridge, Cambridge, (UK) Dr Leonardo Rundo – Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge (UK ) Simeon Spasov – Department of Computer Science and Technology , University of Cambridge, Cambridge (UK) Dr Andrea Tangherloni – Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, (UK) Jin Zhu – Department of Computer Science and Technology , University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK

Dec. 22, 2019

Carnegie Mellon - University of Pittsburgh Joint Summer Undergraduate Program in Computational Neuroscience

by Tai Sing Lee

Please encourage computationally-oriented undergraduates to apply to the Summer 2020 undergraduate program in computational neuroscience (uPNC) in Pittsburgh! Undergraduates interested in receiving research training in computational neuroscience are encouraged to apply to an NIH-sponsored summer program at the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition (CNBC) in Pittsburgh, PA. The CNBC is a joint interdisciplinary program of Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh. Starting in late May or early June each year, a select group of talented undergraduates will embark on a 10-week residential program that provides intensive, mentored research experiences in computational and theoretical neuroscience. Admitted students will receive a stipend and university dormitory housing. The core of the program is the opportunity to carry out an individual mentored research project working closely with a faculty mentor. Other aspects of the scientific program include faculty research talks, student presentations and discussion of articles from the scientific literature, presentations on career options and scientific ethics, and a concluding symposium in which students present their research. This program is intended for students who wish to pursue a Ph.D. after graduation. Any undergraduate may apply, but we are especially interested in attracting students with strong quantitative backgrounds. Many of our trainees are from colleges and universities that do not have extensive research programs, but all must be United States citizens or permanent residents, must be enrolled at a 4-year accredited institution, and must be in their sophomore or junior year at the time of application. CNBC is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students and we encourage applications from women, under-represented minorities, and individuals with disabilities. Additional information and the application can be found here <http://www.cnbc.cmu.edu/training/undergraduate/summer-undergraduate-researc…>. A showcase of past years’ undergraduate research and program schedules is available: summer uPNC 2019 <http://www.cnbc.cmu.edu/training/undergraduate/summer-undergraduate-researc…>, summer uPNC 2018 <http://www.cnbc.cmu.edu/training/undergraduate/summer-undergraduate-researc…>, summer uPNC 2017 <http://www.cnbc.cmu.edu/training/undergraduate/summer-undergraduate-researc…> mentored research is also available. Please contact Dr. Linda Moya (lhmoya(a)cmu.edu <mailto:lhmoya@cmu.edu>) for further questions.

Dec. 21, 2019

PhD fellowship in joint processing of audio and EEG signals

by Kaare Mikkelsen

Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship within Deep learning for joint processing of audio and EEG signals. The aim of the project is to develop algorithms for enhancing hearing aid performance through integration with ear-EEG. The project will investigate deep neural networks for joint processing of brain and audio signals. Read more at: https://eng.au.dk/fileadmin/DJF/ENG/Billeder/ECE/CenterforEarEEG/PhDPositio… <https://eng.au.dk/forskning/forskningsprogrammer-og-centre/center-for-ear-e…> -------------------------------------------------------------------- Kaare Mikkelsen, PhD Phys. Department of Engineering Aarhus University --------------------------------------------------------------------

Dec. 20, 2019

AREADNE 2020 1st Call for Abstracts

by John Pezaris

AREADNE 2020 Research in Encoding and Decoding of Neural Ensembles Nomikos Conference Centre, Santorini, Greece 16-20 June 2020 http://areadne.org info(a)areadne.org Dear Colleague, We are pleased to announce solicitation of abstracts for poster presentation at AREADNE 2020, 16-20 June 2020, our eighth meeting to be held at the Nomikos Conference Centre in Santorini, Greece. Continuing with the same highly successful format, AREADNE 2020 will bring scientific leaders from around the world to present their theoretical and experimental work on the functioning of neuronal ensembles. The meeting will provide an informal yet spectacular setting in which attendees can discuss their recent ideas and discoveries, with a relaxed pace that emphasizes interaction. Please see the Call for Abstracts for additional details, including links for templates, at http://areadne.org/call-for-abstracts Submissions of abstracts for poster presentations are due by 24 Jan 2020; notifications will be provided by 21 Feb 2020. We strongly encourage potential attendees to submit an abstract as presenters have registration priority. For information about the conference, please refer to the main web page http://areadne.org or send email to us at info(a)areadne.org . We hope to see you at AREADNE 2020, Nicholas Hatsopoulos & John Pezaris AREADNE 2020 Co-Chairs --- John S. Pezaris, Ph.D. AREADNE 2020 Co-Chair Harvard Medical School Massachusetts General Hospital 55 Fruit Street Boston, MA 02114, USA john(a)areadne.org

Dec. 19, 2019

PhD position in mouse/monkey electrophysiology at Ernst Strungmann Institute (Frankfurt, Germany)

by Scholvinck, Marieke

We are hiring! We are looking for an enthusiastic Ph.D. candidate to join our team in the Zero-Noise Lab at the Ernst Strüngmann Institute for Neuroscience in Frankfurt, Germany. The position The Zero-Noise Lab investigates how neuronal activity unfolds during natural behaviour rather than in the restricted conditions of most laboratory experiments, and how this compares between mouse and monkey. To this end, we implant electrodes to record neuronal activity in multiple visual brain areas as our animals move through a realistic virtual reality environment in search of virtual rewards. More information about the lab can be found at https://www.esi-frankfurt.de/research/havenith-scholvinck-lab/. The lab is jointly headed by Marieke Schölvinck and Martha Nari Havenith. Postdocs and Ph.D. students focus on either mice or monkeys, but intensely work together to ensure that we constantly learn from each other's experiments. This means that as a Ph.D. student you will work together closely with a postdoc to set up and run the experiments. Ideally, we would like you to start in spring 2020, but later would also work. We are most urgently looking for a Ph.D. student for the monkey experiments. The appointment is for three years initially, with the possibility of extension by another two years; the salary is in accordance with the regulations for academic personnel. You If you (are about to) hold an M.Sc. or equivalent, and are excited to work in an interdisciplinary lab with multiple model species, we would love to hear from you! Additional skills that are not a must, but would be very valuable: - programming skills (Matlab and/or Python) - experience with training animals - experience with electrophysiology How to apply If you're interested, please send an email to Marieke (marieke.scholvinck(a)esi-frankfurt.de<mailto:marieke.scholvinck@esi-frankfurt.de>) and Martha (marthanari.havenith(a)gmail.com<mailto:marthanarihavenith@gmail.com>) before February 15, 2020. In your email, please explain your background and why you want to join us in Frankfurt. The application remains open until the position is filled. We look forward to hearing from you! Martha and Marieke

Dec. 19, 2019

4th Meeting of the French BCI Society in Autrans, May 11-13 2020

by Blaise Yvert

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the 4th CORTICO days will take place in Autrans (near Grenoble, in France) from May 11-13, 2020. This year, they will be dedicated to: *" Invasive and non invasive brain-computer interfaces - A handshake over the cliff "* The conference website in now online, HERE <https://corticodays.sciencesconf.org/>. You are already invited to register and submit abstracts, knowing that the space of the conference center is limited. Looking forward welcoming you in Autrans, Blaise Yvert, for the conference organizing committee -- Blaise Yvert, PhD. Inserm Research Director Team Neurotechnology and Network Dynamics BrainTech Laboratory U1205 Inserm and Univ Grenoble Alpes UFR Chimie Biologie Bâtiment Biologie B 3e étage 2280 rue de la piscine 38400 Saint Martin d'Hères France Tel (admin). +33 4 56 52 03 73 Tel (direct). +33 4 56 52 03 74 Tel (lab). +33 4 56 52 03 81 Tel (mobile). +33 6 32 88 75 90 https://sites.google.com/view/blaise-yvert/accueil http://www.braincom-project.eu/

Dec. 17, 2019

Joint faculty position at NYU: Data Science and Neural Science

by Eero P Simoncelli

Dear Colleagues, The Center for Neural Science (CNS) and the Center for Data Science (CDS) at New York University invite applications for an open rank joint faculty position, anticipated to begin September 2020. Appointments may be made at either junior or senior level. We seek exceptional candidates that can carry out research programs aimed at quantitative analysis and modeling of neural data, and developing related data science tools and methods, leveraging existing strengths of CNS and CDS. We are particularly interested in scholars with cross-disciplinary research interests that complement those of our existing faculty. The successful candidate will be a faculty member in both units, with teaching, service, and other professional duties split between them. Applications and supporting documents received by 31 December 2019 will receive full consideration. Further information about CNS and CDS, and the University: * http://www.cns.nyu.edu/ * https://cds.nyu.edu/ To apply: * https://apply.interfolio.com/70431 Best, Eero Simoncelli New York University

Dec. 16, 2019

Fully funded PhD position at the IIT - neural coding - open now

by Stefano Panzeri

Fully funded PhD Position at IIT - Computational approaches to study the neural code for somatosensation. I am are seeking candidates for a fully funded PhD position at the Italian Institute of Technology’s in my lab ( https://www.iit.it/people/stefano-panzeri ). IIT collaborates with SISSA and finances the positions at the PhD course at SISSA from the EU Marie Curie Training Network Neutouch (www.neutouch.eu) Although formally to be enrolled at SISSA, the successful candidate will conduct research in my laboratory at the IIT headquarters in Genova, Italy. The PhD project can focus on any of the research topics about somatosensory neural information processing that are of interest to the candidate, to my lab and to the Training Network (www.neutouch.eu) including: developing mathematical analysis methods and neural network models for studying neural population coding of somatosensory signals, for studying the neural bases of sensory perception and decision making, and for designing somatosensory neuro-inspired artificial sensors. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in numerate sciences, and have a strong propensity for interdisciplinary research. No extensive previous experience in neuroscience is required. However, a keen interest in understanding the brain is essential. The position is open immediately and will close when a suitable candidate is found. Interested candidates are invited to contact me informally by email (stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it) as soon as possible, by attaching their CV and briefly explaining their interest in this position, to initiate discussions about potential PhD projects of interest. For recent representative publications from my lab, please see: van Vugt B, et al, (2018) *Science* 360, 537-542 Zaldivar, D., et al, (2018) *Current Biology* 28: 224-235 Runyan C. A., et al (2017) *Nature*: 548: 92-96 Pica G. et al, *NIPS* (2017) Panzeri, S, et al (2017) *Neuron* 93: 491-507 Safaai, H. et al (2015) *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA* 112(41): 12834–12839 Fasoli, D. et al (2016) *PLoS Computational Biology*, 12(8): e1004992. Panzeri, S., et al (2015) *Trends in Cognitive Sciences* 19: 162-172 Einevoll, G., et al (2013) *Nature Reviews Neuroscience*, 14, 770-785 Yours truly, Stefano Panzeri stefano.panzeri(a)iit.it

Dec. 16, 2019

Reminder: Special Entropy Issue "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience"

by Dimitrije Markovic

Dear Colleagues, We cordially invite you to submit a manuscript for possible publication in a Special Issue on "Information Theory in Computational Neuroscience" to be published in the journal Entropy (ISSN 1099-4300, IF 2.419, http://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy) The aim of the Special Issue is to bring together neuronal models and neuronal plasticity mechanisms that are grounded in information theory principles, modern inference, and learning algorithms. We welcome submissions that use information theory as the basis for defining generative principles of neuronal dynamics over multiple spatio-temporal scales, which informs our understanding of information processing in the brain. You can see full details of the scope and submission details at: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/entropy/special_issues/Computational_Neuroscie… The submission deadline is 31 January 2020. You may send your manuscript at any time before the deadline or a bit later. Submitted papers should not be under consideration for publication elsewhere. Entropy is fully open access. Open access (unlimited and free access by readers) increases publicity and promotes more frequent citations, as indicated by several studies. Please kindly note that an Article Processing Charge (APC) of CHF 1600 currently applies to all accepted papers. Fortunately, it is noticed that your institute have already had a central open access fund established in MDPI's Institutional Open Access Program, it means you do not have to pay the publication fees and your institute will cover it for you if you submit your papers to MDPI journals (see details at: <http://www.mdpi.com/about/ioap><http://www.mdpi.com/about/ioap>). You may contact your library and confirm this. Please do not hesitate to come back to us if there is anything further that we can help with. We look forward to hearing from you. Kind regards, Dimitrije Markovic and Claudius Gros ============================= Dr. Dimitrije Markovic Post-Doc at Technische Universität Dresden, Department of Psychology, Dresden, Germany Lab website: https://tu-dresden.de/mn/psychologie/ifap/ni Phone: +49-351-463-43146 Personal website: http://dimarkov.github.io/ =============================

Dec. 16, 2019

PhD position in Bern

by Jean-Pascal Pfister

The Department of Physiology at the University of Bern is opening a PhD position in computational neuroscience at the interface with experimental neuroscience. The cerebral cortex endows us with the ability to perform complex cognitive and emotional processes supporting adaptive behavior. The hippocampus is a high-order cortical area instrumental for cognition and emotions. The PhD project will focus on discovering selective computations related to spatial navigation and emotional states using hippocampal neural recordings in behaving rodents. It will further develop predictive models for animal position taking into account uncertainty of hidden states such as emotions. The specificity of the project is the close interactions between theory and experiments. The candidate will have access to experimental data acquired within the research group of Stéphane Ciocchi and the supervision will be shared with Jean-Pascal Pfister of the Theoretical Neuroscience Group. The candidate should hold a Master degree in Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Neuroscience, Computational Neuroscience or a related field. She/he should have keen interests in close interactions between theory and experiments. Interested candidates can send their application and inquiries via email to pfister(a)pyl.unibe.ch <mailto:pfister@pyl.unibe.ch>, ciocchi(a)pyl.unibe.ch <mailto:ciocchi@pyl.unibe.ch> The application should include the following in one pdf document: letter of motivation, CV, contact details of 2 references. The position is funded for a duration of three years. The PhD position shall start early in 2020. Deadline for application is the 31st of January 2020 or until the position is filled. References: Ciocchi, S., Passecker, J., Malagon-Vina, H., Mikus, N., Klausberger, T. Selective information routing by ventral hippocampal CA1 projection neurons. Science (2015). Nonlinear Bayesian filtering and learning: a neuronal dynamics for perception. Kutschireiter A, Surace SC, Sprekeler H, Pfister JP. Sci Rep (2017). --------------------------------- Prof. Jean-Pascal Pfister Theoretical Neuroscience Group Institute of Neuroinformatics University of Zurich and ETH Zurich Winterthurerstrasse 190 8057 Zurich, Switzerland and Department of Physiology University of Bern Bühlplatz 5 3012 Bern, Switzerland www.ini.uzh.ch/~jpfister Tel: ++ 41 31 631 87 78

Dec. 16, 2019