From astocker at sas.upenn.edu Sat Oct 3 00:37:33 2009 From: astocker at sas.upenn.edu (Alan Stocker) Date: Sat Oct 3 12:22:16 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Postdoctoral positions available in computational perception Message-ID: <5B3B9303-6D1A-4460-8B13-ED576123503D@sas.upenn.edu> Two postdoctoral positions are available in the Computational Perception and Cognition Laboratory of Alan Stocker at the University of Pennsylvania. Current research projects in the laboratory are focused on understanding the role of adaptation in perception, modeling sequential decision making during perceptual tasks, and deriving neural decoding models that link neural population responses to perceptual behavior. Further information about the laboratory can be found at: http://www.sas.upenn.edu/~astocker/lab Candidates must have a PhD degree at the time they will start the positions. Analytical and programming skills are an advantage and the ideal candidate is interested in performing both experimental and theoretical/analytical work. More important than a specific background, however, is a strong curiosity about how and why the nervous system solves perceptual problems the way it does. Each position is funded for up to two years, with the possibility for an extension. The newly renovated laboratory offers state-of-the-art equipment and working conditions. The laboratory is embedded in UPenn's engineering and neuroscience communities, and thus there are ample opportunities for collaborative work. UPenn is among the top tier of universities world-wide and boasts a large concentration of high-quality research on perception, cognition and the brain. Candidates should send their applications (including a brief letter of interest, a curriculum vitae and the names and addresses of three references), or requests for additional information, to Alan Stocker (astocker@sas.upenn.edu ). He will be available to meet with potential candidates at the upcoming SfN meeting in Chicago (17-21st of October). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091002/ffc4a97d/attachment.html From dchristi at med.cornell.edu Thu Oct 1 23:17:45 2009 From: dchristi at med.cornell.edu (David J. Christini) Date: Sat Oct 3 12:22:49 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Announcement: PhD program in computational neuroscience - The Tri-Institutional Training Program in Computational Biology and Medicine References: Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, Please inform students interested in mathematical biology or computational biology PhD programs about the Tri-Institutional Training Program in Computational Biology and Medicine (CBM). CBM takes advantage of the outstanding educational and research resources of Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, the Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City, and the Sloan-Kettering Institute (the research arm of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center) to train computational biologists in the interdisciplinary approaches (quantitative and experimental) they need to solve the complex problems that characterize biology and medicine. This NIH T32- funded PhD program is recruiting highly qualified students from biological science and/or quantitative backgrounds. Neuroscience is one of CBM's main focus areas. Please contact cbm@triiprograms.org or visit www.triiprograms.org/cbm for more information. Thank you very much. Sincerely, David Christini, PhD Director, CBM Program From hnx at brain.riken.jp Wed Oct 7 07:03:31 2009 From: hnx at brain.riken.jp (hiroyuki nakahara) Date: Wed Oct 7 12:09:19 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Postdoctoral Positions in Theoretical Neuroscience, at RIKEN BSI Message-ID: <20091007140209.6685.HNX@brain.riken.jp> Postdoctoral positions available Postdoctoral positions are available for studying neural valuation and associated decision making in the laboratory of Dr. Hiro Nakahara (the Laboratory for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience) at RIKEN Brain Science Institute. A major focus of the research for these positions is to develop theoretical and/or computational models for a normative understanding (e.g. reinforcement learning framework and statistical inference) of neural valuation/decision systems, further linking to a mechanistic or circuit-level understanding, in consideration of the rich repertory of behavioral and neurophysiological data. For general information on our laboratory, see http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp. Applicants should have a Ph.D. We seek exceptionally talented candidates with a strong background in theoretical neuroscience. Solid experience in theoretical neuroscience research, with a strong analytical background and a ready ability to acquire new information in experimental literature (e.g. cognitive and behavioral neuroscience), is essential. Research experience in decision making and/or valuation, possibly including basal ganglia functions (and/or the frontal cortices), is a major plus. Proficiency in computer programming (e.g. Matlab or equivalent) is expected. Good communication and writing skills are essential. A good balance of independence and collegiality in research is required. The RIKEN Brain Science Institute (URL: www.brain.riken.jp) is located near Tokyo, Japan. It uses English as the working language, and provides an international, vigorous, and interactive environment not only for computational neuroscience but also for a broad range of disciplines in neuroscience. These positions can start immediately, but consideration will be also given to candidates who would prefer a later start date. Consideration of applications will start immediately, but all applications sent to us by November 10th will be equally considered. Appointment is on an annual basis, and starting salaries will be commensurate with relevant ability and experience. Subsequent contracts will be determined and renewed annually, upon review, for possibly up to five years. Interested candidates should apply to itninfo@brain.riken.jp with the following: a cover letter, CV, a statement of research skills and interests, contact details of three references with a brief description of your relationship to each reference, and (optional) any additional information you think might be useful (e.g. additional skills and background, general interests, and so on). Informal enquiries are also welcome. Hiro Nakahara Lab for Integrated Theoretical Neuroscience RIKEN Brain Science Institute 2-1 Hirosawa Wako Saitama, 351-0198 Japan http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp -- hiroyuki nakahara http://www.itn.brain.riken.jp From kirsch at bccn.uni-freiburg.de Wed Oct 7 10:26:36 2009 From: kirsch at bccn.uni-freiburg.de (Janina Kirsch) Date: Wed Oct 7 12:10:31 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] PhD-Positions in Neuroinformatics, including Computational Neuroscience (Erasmus Mundus Program) Message-ID: The Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctoral Program "EuroSPIN " (European Study Programme in Neuroinformatics) is inviting applications from students having a solid background in mathematics, physics, computer sciences, biochemistry or neuroscience (on a master level or equivalent), in all cases with computer science skills. Documented interest in research like activities (e.g. demonstrated in the form of master thesis work, or participation in research related activities) is of large importance. Also fluency in English is requested. Neuroinformatics combines neuroscience and informatics research to develop and apply computational tools and approaches that are essential for understanding the structure and function of the brain. Four partners participate in EuroSPIN: - KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden - University of Edinburg (UoE), UK - National Centre for Biological Science (NCBS), India - Albert-Ludwigs-Universit?t Freiburg (ALUF), Germany These four partners are all research leaders in the Neuroinformatics field, but they have complementary strengths. In addition, two associated partners, the Honda Research Institute and Nordita, participate. Each student will spend most of the time at two of the partner universities, and also receive a joint (or double) PhD degree following a successful completion of the studies. The mobility periods, as well as the courses a student will follow, are tailored individually based on: a) the PhD students background; b) which constellations of partners that are involved, as well as c) the specific research project. During the PhD period each student has one main supervisor from each of the two universities that grant the PhD degree. During the application process, the students are asked to indicate their preferences with regard to constellations of partners, and also preferred project ideas/areas can be indicated and motivated. There are excellent scholarship opportunities for students accepted to an Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate programme. A stipend or employment contract will be given to all selected PhD students during the study time, which is between 3-4 years. If you are interested, go to our homepage: http://www.kth.se/studies/phd/eurospin?l=en_UK. Deadline for Application (non-EU students): December 15, 2009. Deadline for Application (EU students): about March 2009 (will be announced). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091007/3b574366/attachment.html From margret.franke at bccn-berlin.de Wed Oct 7 13:03:36 2009 From: margret.franke at bccn-berlin.de (Margret Franke) Date: Wed Oct 7 17:51:57 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Post Doc and PhD position in Computational Neuroscience, BCCN Berlin and TU Berlin Message-ID: <4ACC7588.5000300@bccn-berlin.de> one PhD Position COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE at Technische Universitaet Berlin, Department of EE and CS & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin The successful candidate is expected to study computational models of visual processing in relation to cognitive function, and will join ongoing collaborations with experimental groups within the Bernstein Network who work with animal models as well as with human subjects. Theoretical work may be combined with conducting visual psychophysics and behavioural studies with human subjects. Starting date: April 1st, 2010 Salary level: BAT IIa The position of for five years. Candidates should hold a recent Diplom- or Master-degree and should have excellent mathematical and programming skills. Candidates with good knowledge and with research experience in Computational Neuroscience will be preferred. Application material (CV, list of publications, abstract of Diplom- or Master-thesis, copies of certificates and two letters of reference) should be sent to: Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer, FR 2-1, Technische Universit?t Berlin, Franklinstrasse 28/29, 10587 Berlin, email: oby@cs.tu-berlin.de, preferably by email. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. For further information about the research group see http://ni.cs.tu-berlin.de/. ======================================================================= One Postdoc Position COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE at Technische Universitaet Berlin, Department of EE and CS & Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin The successful candidate is expected to study computational models of visual processing in relation to cognitive function, and will join ongoing collaborations with experimental groups within the Bernstein Network who work with animal models as well as with human subjects. Theoretical work may be combined with conducting visual psychophysics and behavioural studies with human subjects. Starting date: April 1st, 2010 Salary level: BAT IIa The position of for five years. Candidates should hold a recent PhD-degree and should have excellent mathematical and programming skills. Candidates with good knowledge and research experience in Computational Neuroscience will be preferred. Application material (CV, list of publications, abstract of PhD thesis, copies of certificates and two letters of reference) should be sent to: Prof. Dr. Klaus Obermayer, FR 2-1, Technische Universit?t Berlin, Franklinstrasse 28/29, 10587 Berlin, email: oby@cs.tu-berlin.de, preferably by email. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. For further information about the research group see http://ni.cs.tu-berlin.de/. -- Margret Franke Management Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Institute f. Biology, Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin Philippstr. 13, Haus 6 10115 Berlin phone: (030) 2093-9110 fax: (030) 2093-6771 From raphael.ritz at incf.org Fri Oct 9 11:19:29 2009 From: raphael.ritz at incf.org (Raphael Ritz) Date: Fri Oct 9 20:04:06 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] INCF at SfN 2009, Chicago Message-ID: <4ACF0021.7070805@incf.org> Dear colleagues, like in previous years, the International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility (INCF; www.incf.org) is presenting selected neuroinformatics projects at the Annual Meeting of the Society for Neuroscience (booth #2100 in the Exhibit Hall of the Chicago Convention Center, Sunday, October 18 - Wednesday, October 21). See below for this years program or download the flyer from http://incf.org/documents/news-material/neuroscience-2009/Demoprogram-SfN2009.pdf In addition, we would like to invite you all to the social event "Neuroscience 2.0 - Networking data, tools, and people", held on Monday October 19, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. in Lake Erie Room at the Chicago Hilton. And on Tuesday, Oct. 20 6:45?8:45 p.m. there will be the "Computational Neuroscience Social: Not an Oxymoron!" with brief presentations at McCormick Place: Room N228. Last but not least I would like to point you to the "Related Abstract Search Tool" - a contribution from the INCF Japan Node to help you organize your SfN 2009 meeting attendance: http://ras.ni.brain.riken.jp/SfN2009/ See you in Chicago? Raphael ============================================================================= Schedule of the Neuroinformatics demonstrations at the INCF Booth at SfN 2009 ============================================================================= Location: booth #2100 in the Exhibit Hall of the Chicago Convention Center Sunday morning, October 18, 2009, 9:30am-12:30pm ------------------------------------------------ - Reaching 500 models in ModelDB: implications for advances in neuronal integration Morse TM, Carnevale NT, Migliore M, Hines ML, and Shepherd GM - Modelling Large-Scale Neuronal Networks with the NEST Topology Module Plesser HE, Austvoll K, Diesmann M, Eppler JM, Gewaltig M-O, and Morrison A Sunday afternoon, October 18, 2009, 1:30pm-4:30pm ------------------------------------------------- - Spectral Analysis of Neural Time Series Data: An introduction to Chronux Bokil H and Mitra P - BrainInfo Online 3D Macaque Brain Atlas Dubach MF and Bowden DM ========================================================= Monday morning, October 19, 2009, 9:30am-12:30pm ------------------------------------------------ - INCF Japan Node (J-Node) and neuroinformatics platforms: Integrative Brain Research Platform, Cerebellar Development Transcriptome Database Platform Usui S, Takao K, Wagatsuma H, and Kamiji NL - The INCF Digital Brain Atlasing Program: Community Built Infrastructure Spanning Multiple Atlas Spaces Hawrylycz M, Lau C, Larson S, and Boline J Monday afternoon, October 19, 2009, 1:30pm-4:30pm ------------------------------------------------- - INCF Japan Node (J-Node) and neuroinformatics platforms: Dynamic Brain Platform, Related Abstract Search Tool Usui S, Wagatsuma H, Asai Y, Inagaki K, and Kamiji NL - The CARMEN Portal for Sharing and Analysis of Neurophysiological Data Ingram C, Smith L, Simonotto J, Williams L, Hiden H, Sernagor E, Jackson T, and Austin J ========================================================= Tuesday morning, October 20, 2009, 9:30am-12:30pm ------------------------------------------------- - Neuroinformatics resources for computational neuroanatomy Polavaram S, Hamilton D, and Ascoli GA - The Rodent Brain Workbench: Web-enabled Brain Mapping at Microscopic Resolution Bjaalie JG, Leergaard TB, Kj?nigsen LJ, Zakiewicz I, van Dongen YC, Odeh F, Papp EA, Ramachandran M, Darine DA, and Moene IA Tuesday afternoon, October 20, 2009, 1:30pm-4:30pm -------------------------------------------------- - Modelling Network Diseases: From Retinal Dysfunction to Epilepsy Simonotto J, Marcelino J, and Kaiser M - Scalable Brain Atlas Viewer: NeuroLex concepts in interactive 3D-context Bakker R, Larson S, Bezgin G, Heeren D, and K?tter R ========================================================= Wednesday morning, October 21, 2009, 9:30am-12:30pm --------------------------------------------------- - NeuroLex.org - a semantic wiki for neuroinformatics based on the NIF Standard Ontology Larson S, Maynard S, Imam F, and Martone M - Data Sharing Between NITRC and the INCF Software Center Haselgrove C, Larsson A, Bjaalie JG, Breeze J, Buccigrossi R, Kennedy D, Preuss N, and Ritz R Wednesday afternoon, October 21, 2009, 1:30pm-4:30pm ---------------------------------------------------- - Open forum discussion: Anyone is welcome to give a spontaneous demonstration -- Dr Raphael Ritz Scientific Officer International Neuroinformatics Coordinating Facility Secretariat Karolinska Institutet Nobels v?g 15A SE-171 77 Stockholm Sweden Email: raphael.ritz@incf.org Phone: +46 8 524 87017 Fax: +46 8 524 87150 web: www.incf.org From wsenn at cns.unibe.ch Wed Oct 7 17:39:57 2009 From: wsenn at cns.unibe.ch (Walter Senn) Date: Fri Oct 9 20:04:28 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Biological Cybernetics: vol 101, issue 3 -- Table of Content Message-ID: <4ACCB64D.9070100@cns.unibe.ch> Biological Cybernetics: vol 101, issue 3 --- Table of Content "What can be learnt from analysing insect orientation flights using probabilistic SLAM?" Bartholomew Baddeley, Andrew Philippides, Paul Graham, Natalie Hempel de Ibarra, Thomas Collett & Phillip Husbands Page 169 - 182 http://www.springerlink.com/content/22170w046237m86q/ "An investigation of the evolutionary origin of reciprocal communication using simulated autonomous agents" Elio Tuci Page 183 - 199 http://www.springerlink.com/content/y03w6258364v111k/ "A phase dynamic model of systematic error in simple copying tasks" Saguna Dubey, Sandeep Sambaraju, Sarat Chandra Cautha, Vednath Arya & V. S. Chakravarthy Page 201 - 213 http://www.springerlink.com/content/p78u0443j98003p7/ "Object orientation in two dimensional grasp with friction towards minimization of gripping power" Satoshi Ito, Shouta Takeuchi & Minoru Sasaki Page 215 - 226 http://www.springerlink.com/content/82416w433001422r/ "Spike-timing-dependent plasticity leads to gamma band responses in a neural networks" Ingo Fr?nd, Frank W. Ohl & Christoph S. Herrmann Page 227 - 240 http://www.springerlink.com/content/w35205g33550776j/ "Washout filter aided mean field feedback desynchronization in an ensemble of globally coupled neural oscillators" Ming Luo, Yongjun Wu & Jianhua Peng Page 241 - 246 http://www.springerlink.com/content/12651284085x1642/ Biological Cybernetics, all issues: http://www.springerlink.com/content/100465/ From cardoso at bcos.uni-freiburg.de Tue Oct 13 11:24:33 2009 From: cardoso at bcos.uni-freiburg.de (Simone Cardoso de Oliveira) Date: Tue Oct 13 12:40:09 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Over 30 positions in Computational Neuroscience in Germany - visit the Bernstein Network booth #2146 at SfN 2009! Message-ID: <4AD44751.1000808@bcos.uni-freiburg.de> Dear colleagues, at the upcoming SfN meeting in Chicago, the German Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience presents itself with - more than 30 job offers, - more than 20 study programs, - at more than 20 locations in Germany! In addition, the booth features demos of: - EyeSeeCam -- a novel head mounted camera controlled by the user's eye movements - see through someone else's eyes! (Sunday, October 18 - Wednesday, October 21 at 9:40am, 1:00pm, and 4:00pm) - a new MRI atlas of the rhesus monkey brain (Roland Tammer, Sabine Hofer, Klaus-Dietmar Merboldt, Jens Frahm: "Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Rhesus Monkey Brain", Vandenhoeck&Ruprecht) We look forward to welcoming you at booth #2146! Best regards, Kerstin Schwarzwaelder (Bernstein Coordination Site representative at the booth) Simone Cardoso (Head of the Bernstein Coordination Site) -- Dr. Simone Cardoso de Oliveira Bernstein Network Computational Neuroscience Head of the Bernstein Coordination Site (BCOS) Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg Hansastr. 9A 79104 Freiburg, Germany phone: +49-761-203-9583 fax: +49-761-203-9585 cardoso@bcos.uni-freiburg.de www.nncn.de From evul at mit.edu Sat Oct 10 01:49:16 2009 From: evul at mit.edu (Ed Vul) Date: Tue Oct 13 12:40:34 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] CFP: NIPS workshop on Bounded rational analysis of human cognition Message-ID: Apologies for cross-posting. ---------------------------------- CALL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS NIPS 2009 Workshop: Bounded-rational analyses of human cognition: Bayesian models, approximate inference, and the brain. http://www.mit.edu/~ndg/NIPS09Workshop.html Whistler, BC, Canada. Dec 12, 2009. ---------------------------------- We invite poster submissions for the NIPS 2009 workshop "Bounded- rational analyses of human cognition: Bayesian models, approximate inference, and the brain". Relevant topics include (but are not limited to): state-of-the-art algorithms for bounded and time-limited inference, process-level limitations on human Bayesian inference, inference algorithms in humans, and neural implementations of Bayesian inference algorithms. Abstracts, no longer than one page, may be submitted by email to: ndg@mit.edu , no later than October 31, 2009. Please include "NIPS Workshop Abstract" in the subject of your email. DESCRIPTION Bayesian, or "rational", accounts of human cognition have enjoyed much success in recent years: human behavior is well described by probabilistic inference in low-level perceptual and motor tasks as well as high level cognitive tasks like category and concept learning, language, and theory of mind. However, these models are typically defined at the abstract "computational" level: they successfully describe the computational task solved by human cognition without committing to the algorithm which carries it out. Bayesian models usually assume unbounded cognitive resources available for computation, yet traditional cognitive psychology has emphasized the severe limitations of human cognition. Thus, a key challenge for the Bayesian approach to cognition is to describe the algorithms used to cary out approximate probabilistic inference using the bounded computational resources of the human brain. Inspired by the success of Monte Carlo methods in machine learning, several different groups have suggested that humans make inferences not by manipulating whole distributions, but my drawing a small number of samples from the appropriate posterior distribution. Monte Carlo algorithms are attractive as algorithmic models of cognition both because of they have been used to do inference in a wide variety of structured probabilistic models, scaling to complex situations while minimizing the curse of dimensionality, and because they use resources efficiently, and degrade gracefully when time does not permit many samples to be generated. Indeed, given parsimonious assumptions about the cost of obtaining a sample for a bounded agent, it is often best to make decisions using just one sample. The claim that human cognition works by sampling identifies the broad class of Monte Carlo algorithms as candidate cognitive process models. Recent evidence from human behavior supports this coarse description of human inference: people seem to operate with a limited set of samples at a time. Further narrowing the class of algorithm makes additional predictions if the samples drawn by these algorithms are imperfect samples (not exact samples from the posterior distribution). That is, while most Monte Carlo algorithms yield unbiased estimators given unlimited resources, they all have characteristic biases and dynamics in practice -- it is these biases and dynamics which result in process-level predictions about human cognition. For instance, it has been argued that the characteristic order effects exhibited by sequential Monte Carlo algorithms (particle filters) when run with few particles can explain the primacy and recency effects observed in human category learning, and the "garden path" phenomena of human sentence processing. Similarly, others have argued that the temporal correlation of samples obtained from Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling can account for bistable percepts in visual processing. Ultimately the processes of human cognition must be implemented in the brain. Relatively little work has examined how probabilistic inference may be carried out by neural mechanisms, and even less of this work has been based on Monte Carlo algorithms. Several different neural implementations of probabilistic inference, both approximate and exact, have been proposed, but the relationship among these implementations and to algorithmic and behavioral constraints remains to be understood. Accordingly, this workshop will foster discussion of neural implementations in light of work on bounded-rational cognitive processes. The goal of this workshop is to explore the connections between Bayesian models of cognition, human cognitive processes, modern inference algorithms, and neural information processing. We believe that this will be an exciting opportunity to make progress on a set of interlocking questions: Can we derive precise predictions about the dynamics of human cognition from state-of-the-art inference algorithms? Can machine learning be improved by understanding the efficiency tradeoffs made by human cognition? Can descriptions of neural behavior be constrained by theories of human inference processes? ORGANIZERS: Noah Goodman Ed Vul Tom Griffiths Josh Tenenbaum INVITED SPEAKERS (confirmed) Matt Botvinik Noah Goodman Tom Griffiths Stuart Russell Paul Schrater Ed Vul Jerry Zhu WORKSHOP FORMAT 8:00 introductory remarks 8:10 1st talk 8:40 2nd talk 9:10 break 9:30 3rd talk 10:00 4th talk 10:30 discussion 11:00 - 1:00 posters 4:00 5th talk 4:30 6th talk 5:00 7th talk 5:30 8th talk 6:00 discussion -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091009/22832cb8/attachment-0001.html From robert at grid.chu.edu.tw Mon Oct 12 16:50:35 2009 From: robert at grid.chu.edu.tw (Robert C. Hsu) Date: Tue Oct 13 15:24:53 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Call for Papers/Workshop Proposals (GPC-10, UIC-10, MTPP-10, ICA3PP-10, FC-10, SMPE-10, FutureTech-10, BodyNets-10) Message-ID: <200910121450.n9CEoZA4009947@grid.chu.edu.tw> An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091012/694bd25f/attachment.html From nicolas.brunel at univ-paris5.fr Tue Oct 13 16:56:24 2009 From: nicolas.brunel at univ-paris5.fr (Nicolas Brunel) Date: Tue Oct 13 17:26:20 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Post-doctoral position in computational neuroscience Message-ID: <4AD49518.6030800@univ-paris5.fr> A postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience is available in Institute for Scientific Interchange (ISI) in Torino (Italy), to work on a research project in collaboration with Nicolas Brunel (Paris), Stefano Panzeri (Genova) and Nikos Logothetis (Tubingen). The goal of the project is to better understand the role of network oscillations in transmitting sensory information, through a combination of data analysis using information theoretic techniques, and analysis of the dynamics of models of networks of spiking neurons. This position demands an energetic and highly-motivated candidate with a strong background in computational/theoretical neuroscience and with the ability to work in an autonomous fashion. The successful candidate will be based in ISI, Torino, in the Statistical Physics research division (see www.isi.it). Frequent trips to Paris (www.neurophys.biomedicale.univ-paris5.fr/~brunel) Genova (www.iit.it/en/robotics-brain-and-cognitive-sciences/people.html?view=profile&layout=profile&id=289), and Tubingen (www.kyb.mpg.de/~nikos) are expected during the project. The position can start immediately, and is funded until July 2011. Salary will be commensurate with level of experience. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. To apply, please send a CV and contact details of two or three references to nicolas.brunel@parisdescartes.fr -- Laboratory of Neurophysics and Physiology Universite Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8119 45 rue des Saints Peres 75270 Paris Cedex 06 Tel (33).1.42.86.20.58 - Fax (33).1.49.27.90.62 nicolas.brunel@univ-paris5.fr www.neurophys.biomedicale.univ-paris5.fr/~brunel From pwilken at gmail.com Mon Oct 12 11:53:27 2009 From: pwilken at gmail.com (Patrick Wilken) Date: Wed Oct 14 12:24:20 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Women's Travel Awards - Berlin School of Mind and Brain Message-ID: <4AD2FC97.6090205@googlemail.com> WOMEN'S TRAVEL AWARDS - BERLIN SCHOOL OF MIND AND BRAIN Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin Berlin School of Mind and Brain Web: www.mind-and-brain.de Email: admissions@mind-and-brain.de The Berlin School of Mind and Brain is an international research school, which was founded in 2006 as part of Germany's Excellence Initiative. The School offers a unique three-year interdisciplinary doctoral program in English in the mind and brain sciences. As part of the Berlin School of Mind and Brain's commitment to supporting women in science and the humanities, the School is delighted to announce a limited number of travel awards for female students who are interested in exploring the possibility of doctoral studies at the School. Successful applicants will receive reimbursement for accommodation, travel costs, plus a per diem to cover living expenses during their visit. Candidates will be invited to visit the School during the week of the 7-12 December 2009, and will have ample opportunities to meet with faculty and students relevant to their research interests, as well as have a chance to view the School's facilities, and to get a better sense of city itself. In addition, they will be encouraged to participate in Berlin Brain Days (9-11 December 2009), an annual event that brings together more than 200 doctoral students from across the neurosciences to discuss and present their work with senior international faculty. In order to be eligible for this award you need to meet the basic eligibility criteria for applying to the School's doctoral program in 2010 or 2011 (in particular you need to have completed or be in the process of completing a Master's or equivalent degree in an area of study relevant to the School). Further details about eligibility criteria for study at the School can be found at: http://www.mind-and-brain.de/63.0.html. Applications (and questions) should be made to admissions@hu-berlin.de; please include a short 1-2 page letter of application (detailing your reasons for applying for the travel award, your background and research interests), your academic CV, as well as a letter of recommendation. The deadline for applications is 1 November 2009. -- Patrick Wilken, PhD Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin Berlin School of Mind and Brain Luisenstra?e 56 D-10099 Berlin Office: Luisenstrasse 56, Haus 1, 10117 Berlin (North wing, 2nd floor, rm. 318) www.mind-and-brain.de My new book: The Oxford Companion to Consciousness http://tinyurl.com/oq7tzr From jhutsler at unr.edu Tue Oct 13 18:47:55 2009 From: jhutsler at unr.edu (jhutsler) Date: Wed Oct 14 12:25:00 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Job Opening: Tenure-Track Cognitive Neuroscience Position Message-ID: <6FB60962-43D2-49E3-8455-61966DECF1B1@unr.edu> University of Nevada, Reno. The Department of Psychology invites applications for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor rank in COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE. Applicants should have a strong research record in a substantive area of cognitive science with strong links to neural processes and demonstrated potential for extramural funding. Teaching includes contributing to graduate training in the department's Cognitive and Brain Sciences doctoral program and to undergraduate courses for both the Psychology and Neuroscience majors. A Ph.D. is required and post-doctoral experience is preferred. Competitive salary and start-up funds are available. Reno sits at the base of the Eastern Sierras minutes from Lake Tahoe and major ski resorts, and is rated as one of the top locations in the US for living and outdoor recreation. Interested individuals should apply online at www.unrsearch.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=54151 and will be prompted to attach a curriculum vitae, letter of application, and some sample publications. Additionally, three letters of recommendation are to be mailed directly to: Jennifer Prager, Search Coordinator, University of Nevada, Reno, MS 296, Reno, Nevada, 89557. We will begin reviewing applications December 1, 2009. EEO/AA Women and under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. ___ Jeffrey J. Hutsler, PhD Psychology Department University of Nevada, Reno -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091013/c671ac22/attachment.html From eilon.vaadia at elsc.huji.ac.il Wed Oct 14 15:23:12 2009 From: eilon.vaadia at elsc.huji.ac.il (Eilon Vaadia) Date: Wed Oct 14 15:40:09 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Tenure Track Message-ID: <20091014152312.86473mvgoccqwce8@alice.nc.huji.ac.il> TENURE TRACK POSITIONS IN NEUROSCIENCE Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC) The Hebrew University of Jerusalem The new EDMOND AND LILY SAFRA CENTER FOR BRAIN SCIENCES (ELSC) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is seeking candidates for faculty positions at all levels in Neuroscience starting July 1, 2010. The ELSC has openings for 15 new faculty positions to be filled over seven to ten years. Specific emphasis will be placed on modern interdisciplinary research using molecular, optical and electrophysiological methods for probing and manipulating neuronal networks that are directly related to specific behaviors. Applicants are expected to develop a solid theoretical and computational foundation in their area of research and to work closely with other research teams. Duties of the newly recruited faculty also include teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels. Applicants with a Ph.D. and postdoctoral experience with a record of excellence and independent productivity, who aspire to establish active innovative and interdisciplinary research programs in neuroscience, are invited to apply. Startup funds are available and will be adjusted to the specific requirements of the proposed research plan. Please send applications by email and include: (1) a letter of intent; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) an outline of future research, including a brief description of the facilities required to carry out the research plan; (4) three to five publications (in PDF format) that best represent the candidate's work and teaching direction; (5) the names of three individuals willing to provide letters of reference. Read more about the new Center at http://www.nature.com/news/2009/090623/full/news.2009.562.html and on the ELSC WEB site: http://elsc-brain.huji.ac.il Applications should be addressed to: Prof. Eilon Vaadia, Acting Director, ELSC Email: eilon.vaadia@elsc.huji.ac.il Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2009. Applications will be accepted at further dates as well. ---------------------------------------------------------------- This message was sent using IMP, the Internet Messaging Program. From baolshausen at berkeley.edu Thu Oct 15 08:11:07 2009 From: baolshausen at berkeley.edu (Bruno Olshausen) Date: Sat Oct 17 14:34:46 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Postdoc position in Visual Neuroscience Message-ID: <9646C7A1-F56D-474B-B11F-BF1473C5068D@berkeley.edu> Postdoctoral position - Visual Neuroscience A postdoctoral position is available immediately in the lab of Dr. Charles Gray in the Center for Computational Biology at Montana State University, Bozeman. The project is investigating the dynamics of population activity and inter-laminar neuronal interactions in the visual cortex during the processing of natural scenes. Electrophysiological studies are being done in both cats and monkeys and utilize state-of-the-art ensemble recording techniques to sample neuronal activity simultaneously from all cortical layers. The project is an NEI-funded collaboration with Dr. Bruno Olshausen at UC Berkeley and Dr. Chris Rozell at the Georgia Institute of Technology which will combine experimental and theoretical approaches to elucidate dynamics of visual cortical function. Candidates should have a strong background in electrophysiological methods and statistical analysis of time series data. Please send curriculum vitae and the names and contact information of three references to: Dr. Charles M. Gray Center for Computational Biology 1 Lewis Hall Montana State University Bozeman, MT 59717 Email: cmgray@nervana.montana.edu Tel: 406-994-7338 Dr. Gray will be attending the Society for Neuroscience meeting in Chicago. Interested candidates are encouraged to email him at the above address to arrange a meeting. --------------------------------------- Bruno A. Olshausen Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute & School of Optometry, and Redwood Center for Theoretical Neuroscience, UC Berkeley Mail address: 156 Stanley Hall MC 3220 Berkeley, CA 94720-3220 (510) 642-7250 / 2-7206 (fax) http://redwood.berkeley.edu/bruno From jean-pascal.pfister at eng.cam.ac.uk Fri Oct 16 16:02:04 2009 From: jean-pascal.pfister at eng.cam.ac.uk (Jean-Pascal Pfister) Date: Sat Oct 17 14:35:56 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro]: Call for abstract: NIPS 2009 workshop on normative electrophysiology. Message-ID: Please note that the submission deadline has been extended to October 30th. ------------------------------- CALL FOR ABSTRACT ------------------------------- *NIPS 2009 WORKSHOP ON NORMATIVE ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY* We are now soliciting abstracts (see format below) for the NIPS 2009 Workshop on : Normative Electrophysiology: explaining cellular properties of neurons from first principles. Authors of accepted abstracts will be entitled to present a poster during the workshop. *Webpage* http://learning.eng.cam.ac.uk/Public/Lengyel/EventNips09 *Key dates* - abstract submission deadline: October 30th, 2009 - Notification of acceptance: November 5th, 2009 - Workshop: December 11th, 2009 *Workshop description* In the past decades, computational neuroscience has seen a burgeoning of normative approaches. These studies made significant advances in formulating formal theories of optimality, and optimal computations, identifying relevant physical and computational constraints under which those computations need to be implemented, developing analytical methods and numerical algorithms to solve the resulting constrained optimization problems, and relating these solutions to biological substrates. However, only a relatively small fraction of these studies attempted to make specific predictions about, and thus interpret in normative terms, the cellular-level electrophysiological properties of individual neurons or synapses. Small in numbers it may be, the potential impact of this particular line of research cannot be ignored as such theories may provide a way to bridge the gap between the cellular-molecular and the systems-level branches of neuroscience by connecting low-level properties of the nervous system to its high-level functions. Our workshop aims to highlight and discuss recent work in this field. Since much of the theoretical background in this field has been adopted from information theory, machine learning, and related fields, we expect that not only experimental and computational neuroscientists, but also machine learning researchers will be interested in the general topic and the specific talks. *Speakers* - Sophie Den?ve, ?cole Normale Sup?rieure - Adrienne Fairhall, U Washington - Aldo Faisal, Imperial College London - M?t? Lengyel, U Cambridge - Jean-Pascal Pfister, U Cambridge - Tatyana Sharpee, Salk Institute - Taro Toyoizumi, Columbia U *Workshop location* Westin Resort and Spa / Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa Whistler, B.C., Canada *Submission instructions* Please submit abstracts (maximum 300 words) in plain text format by email directly to jean-pascal.pfister@eng.cam.ac.uk with the mention "Normative Electrophysiology". *Organizers* Jean-Pascal Pfister (primary contact) Computational and Biological Learning Lab Department of Engineering University of Cambridge Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ United Kingdom tel: +44 (0)1223 748 506 fax: +44 (0)1223 332 662 e-mail: jean-pascal.pfister@eng.cam.ac.uk M?t? Lengyel Computational and Biological Learning Lab Department of Engineering University of Cambridge Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ United Kingdom tel: +44 (0)1223 748 532 fax: +44 (0)1223 332 662 e-mail: m.lengyel@eng.cam.ac.uk -- Jean-Pascal Pfister, PhD Computational and Biological Learning Lab Cambridge University Engineering Department Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK tel: +44 (0)1223 748 506, fax: +44 (0)1223 332 662 email: jean-pascal.pfister@eng.cam.ac.uk http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/~jptp2/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091016/4c801867/attachment.html From eilon.vaadia at elsc.huji.ac.il Wed Oct 14 15:25:05 2009 From: eilon.vaadia at elsc.huji.ac.il (Eilon Vaadia) Date: Sat Oct 17 14:40:15 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Tenure Track Message-ID: <20091014152505.93322twfmi5ug5dd@alice.nc.huji.ac.il> TENURE TRACK POSITIONS IN NEUROSCIENCE Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC) The Hebrew University of Jerusalem The new EDMOND AND LILY SAFRA CENTER FOR BRAIN SCIENCES (ELSC) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is seeking candidates for faculty positions at all levels in Neuroscience starting July 1, 2010. The ELSC has openings for 15 new faculty positions to be filled over seven to ten years. Specific emphasis will be placed on modern interdisciplinary research using molecular, optical and electrophysiological methods for probing and manipulating neuronal networks that are directly related to specific behaviors. Applicants are expected to develop a solid theoretical and computational foundation in their area of research and to work closely with other research teams. Duties of the newly recruited faculty also include teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels. Applicants with a Ph.D. and postdoctoral experience with a record of excellence and independent productivity, who aspire to establish active innovative and interdisciplinary research programs in neuroscience, are invited to apply. Startup funds are available and will be adjusted to the specific requirements of the proposed research plan. Please send applications by email and include: (1) a letter of intent; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) an outline of future research, including a brief description of the facilities required to carry out the research plan; (4) three to five publications (in PDF format) that best represent the candidate's work and teaching direction; (5) the names of three individuals willing to provide letters of reference. Read more about the new Center at http://www.nature.com/news/2009/090623/full/news.2009.562.html and on the ELSC WEB site: http://elsc-brain.huji.ac.il Applications should be addressed to: Prof. Eilon Vaadia, Acting Director, ELSC Email: eilon.vaadia@elsc.huji.ac.il Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2009. Applications will be accepted at further dates as well. ---------------------------------------------------------------- This message was sent using IMP, the Internet Messaging Program. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091014/f1ef6a99/attachment.html From chiestand at salk.edu Sat Oct 17 03:12:00 2009 From: chiestand at salk.edu (Chris Hiestand) Date: Mon Oct 19 13:32:34 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] NIPS 2009 Registration Is Open Message-ID: Registration for the 2009 Neural Information Processing Systems Conference Is Open https://nips.cc/Register/ The last day for early registration pricing is November 6, 2009. Tutorials: December 7, 2009 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Main Conference: December 7 - 10, 2009 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Workshops: December 11-12, 2009 in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada For more details regarding conference contents please see the NIPS Conference Program here: http://nips.cc/Conferences/2009/Program/ http://nips.cc/ From dileepg at gmail.com Sun Oct 18 20:34:35 2009 From: dileepg at gmail.com (Dileep George) Date: Mon Oct 19 13:33:45 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Mathematical theory of cortical microcircuits (New paper) Message-ID: <24e49c0f0910181134x3e75be61p8f73703f69fc3dc1@mail.gmail.com> Dear colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to our recent paper describing a mathematical theory for cortical microcircuits. George D, Hawkins J Towards a Mathematical Theory of Cortical Micro-circuits PLoS Comput Biol 5(10: e1000532. doi:10.1371/journal.pcbi.1000532 The paper can be downloaded from http://www.ploscompbiol.org/doi/pcbi.1000532 Author summary and abstract are included below. Best regards -Dileep George Abstract The theoretical setting of hierarchical Bayesian inference is gaining acceptance as a framework for understanding cortical computation. In this paper, we describe how Bayesian belief propagation in a spatio-temporal hierarchical model, called Hierarchical Temporal Memory (HTM), can lead to a mathematical model for cortical circuits. An HTM node is abstracted using a coincidence detector and a mixture of Markov chains. Bayesian belief propagation equations for such an HTM node define a set of functional constraints for a neuronal implementation. Anatomical data provide a contrasting set of organizational constraints. The combination of these two constraints suggests a theoretically derived interpretation for many anatomical and physiological features and predicts several others. We describe the pattern recognition capabilities of HTM networks and demonstrate the application of the derived circuits for modeling the subjective contour effect. We also discuss how the theory and the circuit can be extended to explain cortical features that are not explained by the current model and describe testable predictions that can be derived from the model. Author Summary Understanding the computational and information processing roles of cortical circuitry is one of the outstanding problems in neuroscience. In this paper, we work from a theory of neocortex that models it as a spatio-temporal hierarchical system to derive a biological cortical circuit. This is achieved by combining the computational constraints provided by the inference equations for this spatio-temporal hierarchy with anatomical data. The result is a mathematically consistent biological circuit that can be mapped to the cortical laminae and matches many prominent features of the mammalian neocortex. The mathematical model can serve as a starting point for the construction of machines that work like the brain. The resultant biological circuit can be used for modeling physiological phenomena and for deriving testable predictions about the brain. From yeewhye at gmail.com Wed Oct 7 18:55:03 2009 From: yeewhye at gmail.com (YeeWhye Teh) Date: Mon Oct 19 13:34:16 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Conference re-announcement: AISTATS 2010 In-Reply-To: <90231e670910070954p36ab1cf0nd0a5220b76d8d9f0@mail.gmail.com> References: <90231e670910070954p36ab1cf0nd0a5220b76d8d9f0@mail.gmail.com> Message-ID: <90231e670910070955v1a7aec1bg803b30fca1de7602@mail.gmail.com> Thirteenth International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Statistics May 13--15, 2010 Chia Laguna Resort, Sardinia http://www.aistats.org The objective of this series of conferences is to bring together people with common interests from the computer science, statistics and related communities. There will be a small number of invited talks, but the bulk of the programme will consist of contributed talks and posters; see the website for details. This will be the first conference in the series to be held in Europe. The invited speakers will be Richard Gill, John Lafferty and Simon Tavar\'e. Programme Chairs are Yee Whye Teh and Mike Titterington and General Chair is Neil Lawrence. The deadline for submission of full contributed papers for review is 23.59h, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2009, Universal Time. The system will be open for paper submissions shortly. From romain.brette at ens.fr Mon Oct 19 14:51:18 2009 From: romain.brette at ens.fr (Romain Brette) Date: Tue Oct 20 03:33:29 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience in Paris Message-ID: <4ADC60C6.8030900@ens.fr> A postdoctoral position in computational neuroscience is available in Ecole Normale Sup?rieure (Paris) to work on spike-based computation in the auditory system with Romain Brette (http://audition.ens.fr/brette/) in the Audition lab (http://lpp.psycho.univ-paris5.fr/hearing.php). The position is funded by the European Research Council (Starting Grant). Specific subjects include: * Spike-based models of sound localization (in particular the problem of reverberation, in relationship with the precedence effect) * Spike-based models of pitch perception * STDP in auditory models (in particular how structure in sounds (e.g. periodicity) may be learned) The lab is a friendly mixture of modelers and experimental psychologists. It is ideally located in central Paris, in the Quartier Latin, in close proximity with theoretical neuroscientists, psychologists and neurophysiologists. The position is funded for two years with possible extensions. Salary is commensurate with experience and the position carries a full social security and health coverage. Candidates should send their applications (including a brief letter of interest, a CV and the names and contact details of two or three references) to Romain Brette (romain.brette@ens.fr). Romain Brette Ass. Professor DEC-ENS 29 rue d'Ulm 75005 Paris http://audition.ens.fr/brette/ romain.brette@ens.fr From kirsch at bccn.uni-freiburg.de Mon Oct 19 14:14:01 2009 From: kirsch at bccn.uni-freiburg.de (Janina Kirsch) Date: Tue Oct 20 03:34:58 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Postdoc-Position "Investigation of activity-dependent signal integration in neocortical neurons" at the Bernstein Center Freiburg Message-ID: Postdoc-Position "Investigation of activity-dependent signal integration in neocortical neurons" Our lab uses combined intra- and extracellular recordings in rat V1 in vivo, as well as dynamic photo stimulation of acute brain slices to study network dynamics in V1 and the influence of dynamical states on the integration of synaptic input in pyramidal cells. The offered position is funded by the EU FACETS program (http://facets.kip.uni-heidelberg.de), and should, therein, contribute to the aspect of experimental characterization of cortical cells and networks in vivo and in vitro. The goal of our work is to link the obtained electrophysiological data, in close collaboration with other groups at the BCCN and within FACETS, to new models of neocortical networks, aimed to better understand the mechanisms underlying network dynamics in the cortex. The post-doc position is available immediately for 1 year with an optional one year extension. We are looking for experimentalists with a solid background in electrophysiological recording techniques and interest in computational neuroscience. Please apply via the online application form: http://www.bccn2.uni-freiburg.de/postdoc_applications/index.php (Project-ID: FACETS) -- Dr. Janina Kirsch -- Coordinator for the Teaching & Training Programs Bernstein Center Freiburg Albert-Ludwig University of Freiburg Hansastr. 9a D - 79104 Freiburg Germany Phone: +49 (0) 761 203-9575 Fax: +49 (0) 761 203-9559 Email: kirsch @bcf.uni-freiburg.de Web: www.bcf.uni-freiburg.de _____ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091019/08710b93/attachment.html From tweise at gmx.de Mon Oct 19 16:10:49 2009 From: tweise at gmx.de (Thomas Weise) Date: Tue Oct 20 03:36:09 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Call for Chapters: Variants of Evolutionary Algorithms for Real-World Applications Message-ID: <001b01ca50c5$f6527960$e2f76c20$@de> Apologies for multiple posting. Please distribute this CfC to your colleagues and further interested people. CALL FOR BOOK CHAPTERS Variants of Evolutionary Algorithms for Real-World Applications A volume edited by Raymond Chiong, Thomas Weise and Zbigniew Michalewicz Proposals Submission Deadline: 15 DECEMBER 2009 Full Chapters Due: 15 FEBRUARY 2010 Website: http://www.it-weise.de/book/ To be published by Springer-Verlag in 2011 Book Objectives & Mission: Started as a mere academic curiosity, Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) first came into sight back in the 1960s. However, it was not until the 1980s that the research on EAs became less theoretical and more practical. As a manifestation of population-based, stochastic search algorithms that mimic natural evolution, EAs use genetic operators such as crossover and mutation for the search process to generate new solutions through a repeated application of variation and selection. Due to their ability to find satisfactory solutions for conventionally hard and dynamic problems within acceptable time, EAs have attracted interests from many researchers and practitioners in recent years. The general-purpose, black-box character of EAs makes them suitable for a wide range of real-world applications. Standard EAs such as Genetic Algorithms, Evolutionary Programming, Evolution Strategies and Genetic Programming are becoming more and more accepted in the industry and commercial sectors. With the dramatic increase in computational power today, an incredible diversification of new application areas of these techniques can be observed. At the same time, new variants and classes of evolutionary optimisation methods such as Differential Evolution, Estimation of Distribution Algorithms, Cultural Algorithms, Grammatical Evolution, Gene Expression Programming, Cooperative and Competitive Co-evolutionary Algorithms, Multi-objective Evolutionary Algorithms, to name just a few, emerged. When systems utilising EAs reach production stage, off-the-shelf versions of these methods are regularly replaced by dedicated algorithm variants. These specialised EAs often use tailored reproduction operators, search spaces differing significantly from the well-known binary or tree-based encodings, non-trivial genotype- phenotype mappings, or are hybridised with other optimisation algorithms. This book aims to promote the practitioner's view on EAs by giving a comprehensive discussion of how EAs can be adapted to the requirements of various applications in the real-world domains. It will pool knowledge and experience on how EAs can be exploited to solve a wide range of problems in diverse fields such as scheduling, manufacturing, logistics, space allocation, stock cutting, anomaly detection, engineering design, software testing, bioinformatics and data mining, among others. The main focus will be on applications which are actually delivered and integrated in some industrial or real-world settings. Recommended topics include, but are not limited to, the following: + Methods (variants of): - Genetic Algorithms - Genetic Programming - Evolution Strategies - Evolutionary Programming - Differential Evolution - Estimation of Distribution Algorithms - Co-evolutionary Algorithms - Multi-objective Evolutionary Algorithms - Memetic Algorithms + Applications: - Planning, Scheduling and Timetabling - Space Allocation, Bin Packing and Stock Cutting - Logistics and Transportation - Computer Networks and Telecommunications - Computer Security, Privacy and Anomaly Detection - (Computer) System Configuration and Management - Software Testing and Software Engineering - Hardware Design and Testing, Circuit Layout, Circuit Synthesis - Engineering Design and (Industrial) Design Optimisation - Data Mining, Customer Decision Prediction - Expert Systems - Medicine, Diagnosis - Chemistry - Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics - Business and Financial Applications, Fraud Detection Submission Procedure: Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit on or before December 15, 2009 a 2-3 pages proposal to tweise@gmx.de (cc. rchiong@swin.edu.au) clearly explaining the mission and concerns of the proposed chapter. Authors of accepted proposals will be notified between 2 to 3 weeks time about the status of their proposals. Full chapters are expected to be submitted by February 15, 2010. All submitted chapters will be reviewed by at least three reviewers and the final decision of acceptance or rejection will be based on their recommendations. Manuscript Preparation: The full chapters must be prepared according to Springer's style guide for contributed books and conform to additional instructions provided at http://www.it-weise.de/book/style.zip. Manuscript preparation in LaTeX is strongly recommended. Works based on previously published materials must be substantially extended. Important Dates: Deadline for chapter proposals 15 December 2009 Deadline for full chapters 15 February 2010 Notification of acceptance/rejection of chapters 15 May 2010 Deadline for submission of final chapters 15 June 2010 Publication of book First half of 2011 All inquiries can be forwarded to Dr.-Ing. Thomas Weise via e-mail at tweise@gmx.de. From dagmar at neu.edu Mon Oct 19 03:03:40 2009 From: dagmar at neu.edu (dagmar@neu.edu) Date: Tue Oct 20 03:37:14 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] position in Movement Neuroscience at Northeastern University Message-ID: Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Movement Neuroscience Northeastern University, Boston, MA The Departments of Biology and Physical Therapy at Northeastern University are seeking interdisciplinary applicants in Experimental or Computational Movement Neuroscience. All ranks will be considered. Individuals working on neurophysiological, biomechanical and executive functions in the control of movement, rehabilitation and restoration of function, development, sensorimotor integration, muscle function and other areas related to motor control are encouraged to apply. We are interested in individuals with a variety of research methods ranging from behavioral, neurophysiological, biomechanical, electrophysiological, engineering and imaging techniques. Applicants will be expected to support a strong research program and contribute to teaching in the area of neurobiology and biomechanics of movement at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Successful applicants are expected to maintain an independent research program of distinction, as well as effective collaborations with other faculty at Northeastern University and institutions. Qualifications include a PhD, a strong record of scientific achievements and extramural funding commensurate with the level of the appointment, and a willingness to contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching. Start date: Fall 2010. To apply, visit the website http://www.northeastern.edu/cas/ and click on ?Faculty Positions?. For questions about the search, call: Dagmar Sternad 617-373-5093. Review of applications will begin January 15, 2010 and continue until the position is filled. Northeastern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Educational Institution and Employer, Title IX University, and NSF funded ADVANCE Institutional Transformation site. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply. ************************** Dagmar Sternad Professor Departments of Biology, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Physics 134 Mugar Life Science Building Northeastern University 360 Huntington Avenue Boston MA 02115 Phone: 617-373-5093 Fax: 617-373-3724 http://www.northeastern.edu/actionlab/index.htm -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091018/d9b05068/attachment-0001.html From berndporr at f2s.com Tue Oct 20 18:38:08 2009 From: berndporr at f2s.com (Bernd Porr) Date: Wed Oct 21 13:15:51 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] PhD Studentship: Automatic Face Recognition based on Human Perception Message-ID: <4ADDE770.2060601@f2s.com> PhD Studentship: Automatic Face Recognition based on Human Perception Departments of Psychology and Electronics & Electrical Engineering University of Glasgow Applications are invited for a studentship on an interdisciplinary project in face recognition. The student will work on automated face processing systems incorporating recent developments in psychology and engineering. The project will lead to hardware implementation of the system on a chip. A project summary is given below. Candidates should have at least a 2:1 honours degree in electrical engineering, computing science or related discipline. Excellent programming skills in C and C++ are essential and a good understanding of Linux and embedded systems is desirable. Because the final version will be a system on a chip or an embedded device, experience in hardware development is required. The duration of the studentship is three years, and the successful candidate will receive an annual stipend of ?13,290 per annum, EU/UK students, only. PhD fees will be paid. This studentship is funded by the University of Glasgow Kelvin-Smith scheme. See http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/kelvinsmithfellowshipsscholarships for details. Informal enquiries may be made to Professor Mike Burton (mike@psy.gla.ac.uk), Dr Bernd Porr (b.porr@elec.gla.ac.uk), or Dr Rob Jenkins (rob@psy.gla.ac.uk). Applicants should send a CV, a letter detailing their suitability for the studentship, and details of two academic referees to Mrs Sheena McGill, PA to the Head of Department, Department of Psychology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, or by email to s.mcgill@psy.gla.ac.uk CLSOSING DATE: 30 NOVEMBER 2009 Project Summary: Automatic face recognition based on human perception Automatic face recognition is not currently good enough to work in practical settings, such as airport security. In contrast, humans seem to be good at recognising faces. In fact, we are only experts in face recognition when we know someone - our ability to match unfamiliar people to their photos (e.g. ID-cards or passports) is rather poor. Our recent research has revealed differences between familiar and unfamiliar face recognition, which account for human perception. However, this analysis - based on an understanding of how faces become familiar - is completely absent from automated systems. Here we propose a project in which knowledge of human familiar face recognition can be built-in to an automated system, and implemented on a chip. The resulting system has considerable potential both commercially, and as a technique for theory development. The project is highly inter-disciplinary, relying on the most recent research methods in psychology and engineering. -- www: http://www.berndporr.me.uk/ http://www.linux-usb-daq.co.uk/ Mobile: +44 (0)7840 340069 Work: +44 (0)141 330 5237 University of Glasgow Department of Electronics & Electrical Engineering 72 Oakfield Avenue (Rankine Building for deliveries) Glasgow, G12 8LT From dmodha at gmail.com Tue Oct 20 04:49:54 2009 From: dmodha at gmail.com (Dharmendra S Modha) Date: Wed Oct 21 13:16:36 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Career Opportunities in Cognitive Computing Message-ID: <000c01ca5130$032f1de0$098d59a0$@com> IBM has recently won Phase 1 of the DARPA SyNAPSE project that seeks to discover, demonstrate, and deliver algorithms of the brain via a combination of (computational) neuroscience, supercomputing, and nanotechnology. We are seeking world-class candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas: computational neuroscience (spiking computation, synaptic plasticity, structural plasticity), reinforcement learning, nonlinear dynamical systems, systems of coupled difference equations, neuroanatomy (gray matter, white matter), neurophysiology, neuromodulation, network analysis, neuromorphic chip design, analog VLSI, digital VLSI, ultra low-power computing, asynchronous VLSI, address events, circuit simulation, chip layout, chip testing, large-scale simulations, MPI (message passing interface), programming distributed memory machines, visualization, and virtual environments (USARSim) for cognitive task design. Interdisciplinary candidates with background in computer science, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, and computational neuroscience are strongly encouraged to apply. Outstanding communication skills, ability to interact with a large, technically diverse, distributed team, demonstrated publication record, and relentless focus on project metrics and milestones are a must. IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Research Scientist - https://jobs3.netmedia1.com/cp/job_summary.jsp?job_id=RES-0262561 Post Doc - https://jobs3.netmedia1.com/cp/job_summary.jsp?job_id=RES-0262571 Senior Engineer - https://jobs3.netmedia1.com/cp/job_summary.jsp?job_id=RES-0262576 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091019/3517b517/attachment.html From ale at sissa.it Thu Oct 22 17:40:35 2009 From: ale at sissa.it (Alessandro Treves) Date: Fri Oct 23 14:26:11 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Ararat memory meeting Message-ID: <20091022174035.fu7vbt31s8ssskwg@webmail.sissa.it> Looking Back at Mount Ararat: Diversity and cross-Fertilization among Approaches to Memory Onur G?nt?rk?n, Avetis Sadoyan and I invite you to join us on April 5-10, 2010, in Yerevan, Armenia. See http://www.sissa.it/ararat/ The meeting, funded by the Volkswagen Stiftung and supported by EBBS and by PENS, includes a 3-day mini-school, for 40 students, who are invited to apply from Nov 5 on the PENS website (no fees; several travel fellowships will be available) and a 3-day workshop, which we hope many of you will want to attend, to present your memory research. The meeting is free and open, subject to capacity constraints. Accommodation and living expenses will be covered but not, in general, travel costs. Those interested in the workshop, and who share its spirit of enhancing diversity and mutual understanding, are invited to write to me, at ale_treves@yahoo.com, preferably before the end of October (I will be able to respond when returning on e-mail in early November). Please indicate the (approximate) title of a research talk you would contribute. Alessandro -- SISSA - Cognitive Neuroscience, now downtown in via Stock 2/2, V fl BUT NOTE, POSTAL ADDRESS: SISSA, via Beirut 2, 34014 Trieste, Italy tel:39-040-3787623 fax:39-040-3787615 http://people.sissa.it/~ale ---------------------------------------------------------------- SISSA Webmail https://webmail.sissa.it/ Powered by Horde http://www.horde.org/ From digiovaj at cnel.ufl.edu Wed Oct 21 14:48:48 2009 From: digiovaj at cnel.ufl.edu (Jack Digiovanna) Date: Fri Oct 23 14:26:34 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] PhD position at ETH Zurich in vestibular neuroprosthesis project Message-ID: <6144848A-BECE-45BE-8245-A3B02223F224@cnel.ufl.edu> [Introduction] The vestibular system is responsible for the body?s ?sixth sense? ? it detects (along with vision and proprioception) spatial orientation and maintains body equilibrium. If the vestibular system is damaged, patients may experience dizziness, vertigo, or inability to stand up in severe cases. [The CLONS project] The CLONS project is developing a sensory prosthesis for patients with vestibular damage or disorders. It includes both animal and eventually human research. CLONS is funded by the EU under the 'Future and Emerging Technologies Open Scheme'. The PhD student position at ETH Zurich will include modeling, identification of neural dynamics, optimization of stimulation patterns to restore vestibular function, and design of control algorithms. [What we ask] Ideal applicants should have knowledge in one or several of the following subjects: neural engineering, machine learning, neuroscience, signal processing, or biomedical engineering. Experimental skills are also helpful. Applicant must be capable of both independent research and working within a team. Additionally, the applicant should be proficient in English. [About the research partners] Most research will be carried out in the Neuroprosthesis Control Group of the Automatic Control Laboratory at ETH Zurich. Additionally, there will likely be prosthetic testing at the Massachusetts Ear and Eye Infirmary of Harvard Medical School. [To apply] Interested candidates are asked to email their Curriculum Vitae, a list of courses taken and grades obtained, a statement of objectives and research interests (1-2 pages), and contact information of three references to digiovanna@control.ee.ethz.ch. Application deadline is December 4, 2009. Position available from January 2010. ---------------------------------------------- ETH Zurich Jack DiGiovanna, Ph.D. Neuroprosthesis Control Group Automatic Control Laboratory ETL K-24, Physikstrasse 3 8092 Zurich, SWITZERLAND digiovanna@control.ee.ethz.ch control.ee.ethz.ch From ja.greene at neu.edu Wed Oct 21 15:52:40 2009 From: ja.greene at neu.edu (ja.greene@neu.edu) Date: Fri Oct 23 14:26:56 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Assistant/Associate/Full Professor of Movement Neuroscience at Northeastern University, Boston, MA Message-ID: Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Movement Neuroscience Northeastern University, Boston, MA The Departments of Biology and Physical Therapy at Northeastern University are seeking interdisciplinary applicants in experimental or computational Movement Neuroscience. All ranks will be considered. Individuals working on neurophysiological, biomechanical and executive functions in the control of movement, rehabilitation and restoration of function, development, sensorimotor integration, muscle function and other areas related to motor control are encouraged to apply. We are interested in individuals with a variety of research methods ranging from behavioral, neurophysiological, biomechanical, electrophysiological, engineering and imaging techniques. Applicants will be expected to support a strong research program and contribute to teaching in the area of neurobiology and biomechanics of movement at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Successful applicants are expected to maintain an independent research program of distinction, as well as effective collaborations with other faculty at Northeastern University and institutions. Qualifications include a PhD, a strong record of scientific achievements and extramural funding commensurate with the level of the appointment, and a willingness to contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching. Start date: Fall 2010. To apply, visit the website http://www.northeastern.edu/cas/ and click on ?Faculty Positions?. For questions about the search, call: Dagmar Sternad 617-373-5093. Review of applications will begin January 15, 2010 and continue until the position is filled. Northeastern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Educational Institution and Employer, Title IX University, and NSF funded ADVANCE Institutional Transformation site. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply. From leo at math.iupui.edu Thu Oct 22 18:24:22 2009 From: leo at math.iupui.edu (Leonid Rubchinsky) Date: Fri Oct 23 14:27:25 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] faculty positions in Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Message-ID: <5ab9ddec0970328b24e0a439ef2b7112.squirrel@www.math.iupui.edu> Colleagues, Our department opened a search to fill two (or more) faculty positions. The rank is open. Computational neuroscience is one of the areas of the interest for the department. The description of the position is below and more details are available at http://www.math.iupui.edu/employment/pdf/AdMath2009.pdf Leonid Rubchinsky ------------------------------------------------------- The Department of Mathematical Sciences at IUPUI invites applications for two or more faculty positions, with rank open, to begin August 1, 2010. These appointments will be made in support of Indiana University?s Life Sciences Initiative and the newly established Center for Mathematical Biosciences, in the department. IUPUI is Indiana's urban research and academic health sciences campus, and the focal point of the Indiana Life Sciences Initiative. The Department, with a faculty of 45, offers programs of study leading to Purdue University B.S, M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in pure and applied mathematics, including an M.S. in Applied Statistics and a B.S. in Mathematics with Actuarial Science concentration. The Department also offers a Ph.D. degree in biostatistics in collaboration with the IU School of Medicine. Current areas of research strength in the Department include mathematical physics and integrable systems, dynamical systems, operator algebras and non-commutative geometry, differential geometry, mathematical neuroscience and biomathematics, scientific computing, and applied statistics. Qualifications: Applicants must have an earned doctorate in the mathematical sciences or related areas, a strong research program and be able to teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Applicants at the Associate or Full Professor level must have a record of significant research accomplishments and external funding. Tenure may be offered to a successful senior candidate, depending on the candidate?s qualifications and accomplishments. How to Apply: A complete application must include: a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, statements on research plans and teaching philosophy, and three letters of recommendation. Applications should be submitted electronically to: Applied Mathematics Search Committee, mathjobs.org. Screening of completed applications will begin on November 1, 2009, and will continue until all approved positions are filled. From opossumnano at gmail.com Fri Oct 23 14:00:34 2009 From: opossumnano at gmail.com (Tiziano Zito) Date: Fri Oct 23 19:42:52 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] [ANN] Advanced Scientific Programming in Python Winter School in Warsaw, Poland Message-ID: <20091023120033.GB28287@notami.bccn-berlin> Advanced Scientific Programming in Python a Winter School by the G-Node and University of Warsaw Scientists spend more and more time writing, maintaining, and debugging software. While techniques for doing this efficiently have evolved, only few scientists actually use them. As a result, instead of doing their research, they spend far too much time writing deficient code and reinventing the wheel. In this course we will present a selection of advanced programming techniques with theoretical lectures and practical exercises tailored to the needs of a programming scientist. New skills will be tested in a real programming project: we will team up to develop an entertaining scientific computer game. We'll use the Python programming language for the entire course. Python works as a simple programming language for beginners, but more importantly, it also works great in scientific simulations and data analysis. Clean language design and easy extensibility are driving Python to become a standard tool for scientific computing. Some of the most useful open source libraries for scientific computing and visualization will be presented. This winter school is targeted at Post-docs and PhD students from all areas. Substantial proficiency in Python or in another language (e.g. Java, C/C++, MATLAB, Mathematica) is absolutely required. An optional, one-day introduction to Python is offered to participants without prior experience with the language. Date and Location: February 8th ? 12th, 2010. Warsaw, Poland. Preliminary Program: - Day 0 (Mon Feb 8) ? [Optional] Dive into Python - Day 1 (Tue Feb 9) ? Software Carpentry ? Documenting code and using version control ? Test-driven development and unit testing ? Debugging, profiling and benchmarking techniques ? Object-oriented programming, design patterns, and agile programming - Day 2 (Wed Feb 10) ? Scientific Tools for Python ? NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib ? Data serialization: from pickle to databases ? Programming project in the afternoon - Day 3 (Thu Feb 11) ? The Quest for Speed ? Writing parallel applications in Python ? When parallelization does not help: the starving CPUs problem ? Programming project in the afternoon - Day 4 (Fri Feb 12) ? Practical Software Development ? Software design ? Efficient programming in teams ? Quality Assurance ? Programming project final Applications: Applications should be sent before December 6th, 2009 to: python-winterschool@g-node.org No fee is charged but participants should take care of travel, living, and accommodation expenses. Applications should include full contact information (name, affiliation, email & phone), a *short* CV and a *short* statement addressing the following questions: ? What is your educational background? ? What experience do you have in programming? ? Why do you think ?Advanced Scientific Programming in Python? is an appropriate course for your skill profile? Candidates will be selected on the basis of their profile. Places are limited: early application is recommended. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by December 14th, 2009. Faculty ? Francesc Alted, author of PyTables, Castell? de la Plana, Spain [Day 3] ? Pietro Berkes, Volen Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, USA [Day 1] ? Zbigniew J?drzejewski-Szmek, Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw, Poland [Day 0] ? Eilif Muller, Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience, Ecole Polytechnique F?d?rale de Lausanne, Switzerland [Day 3] ? Bartosz Tele?czuk, Institute for Theoretical Biology, Humboldt-Universit?t zu Berlin, Germany [Day 2] ? Niko Wilbert, Institute for Theoretical Biology, Humboldt-Universit?t zu Berlin, Germany [Day 1] ? Tiziano Zito, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany [Day 4] Organized by Piotr Durka, Joanna and Zbigniew J?drzejewscy-Szmek (Institute of Experimental Physics, University of Warsaw), and Tiziano Zito (German Neuroinformatics Node of the INCF). Website: http://www.g-node.org/python-winterschool Contact: python-winterschool@g-node.org From byronyu at stanford.edu Sat Oct 24 10:37:04 2009 From: byronyu at stanford.edu (Byron Yu) Date: Sat Oct 24 16:24:25 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Cosyne 2010: Submission Now Open Message-ID: ================================================================= ***** SUBMISSION NOW OPEN ***** ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 20 Nov 2009 Computational and Systems Neuroscience (Cosyne) MAIN MEETING 25 - 28 Feb, 2010 Salt Lake City, Utah WORKSHOPS 1 - 2 Mar, 2010 Snowbird Ski Resort, Utah http://cosyne.org ================================================================= Cosyne is an annual meeting providing an inclusive forum for the exchange of experimental and theoretical approaches to problems in systems neuroscience. The meeting is expected to draw over 500 researchers from a wide variety of disciplines. The MAIN MEETING is organized in a single track, and consists of both oral and poster sessions. Some oral presentations are invited (see below), while others are selected based on short submitted abstracts. Poster presentations are also selected from the submitted abstracts. The WORKSHOPS are held in 4-8 parallel sessions per day, allowing for more in-depth discussion of specialized topics. CONFIRMED INVITED SPEAKERS: - Keynote: Clay Reid (Harvard Medical School) - Daphne Bavelier (University of Rochester) - Howard Berg (Harvard University) - Adrienne Fairhall (University of Washington) - John Lisman (Brandeis University) - Eve Marder (Brandeis University) - Tirin Moore (Stanford University) - Michael Platt (Duke University) - Nicholas Schiff (Cornell Medical School) - Jackie Schiller (Technion) - Anthony Zador (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratories) Cosyne 2010 will include a special symposium in honour of Horace Barlow, featuring talks by: - Honorary Lecturer: Horace Barlow (Cambridge University) - David Field (Cornell University) - William Geisler (University of Texas) - Geoffrey Hinton (University of Toronto) - Simon Laughlin (Cambridge University) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: - General Chair: Maneesh Sahani (University College London) - Program Chairs: Anne Churchland (University of Washington) and Bartlett Mel (University of Southern California) - Workshop Chairs: Adam Kohn (Yeshiva University) and Mark Laubach (Yale University) - Communications Chair: Byron Yu (Carnegie Mellon University) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: - Anthony Zador (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) - Alexandre Pouget (University of Rochester) - Zachary Mainen (Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme) ADVISORY BOARD: - Matteo Carandini (University College London) - Eero Simoncelli (New York University and HHMI) - Peter Dayan (University College London) - Steven Lisberger (UC San Francisco and HHMI) - Karel Svoboda (HHMI Janelia Farm) From Mark.McDonnell at unisa.edu.au Sat Oct 24 04:20:56 2009 From: Mark.McDonnell at unisa.edu.au (Mark McDonnell) Date: Sat Oct 24 16:28:56 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] New paper on information theoretically optimal tuning curves and population coding Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, A new paper on information theoretically optimal tuning curves has been published in Physical Review Letters: Nikitin, Stocks, Morse and McDonnell, "Neural Population Coding Is Optimized by Discrete Tuning Curves," Physical Review Letters 103, 138101 (2009) Abstract: The sigmoidal tuning curve that maximizes the mutual information for a Poisson neuron, or population of Poisson neurons, is obtained. The optimal tuning curve is found to have a discrete structure that results in a quantization of the input signal. The number of quantization levels undergoes a hierarchy of phase transitions as the length of the coding window is varied. We postulate, using the mammalian auditory system as an example, that the presence of a subpopulation structure within a neural population is consistent with an optimal neural code. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.103.138101 Arxiv Preprint: http://arxiv.org/abs/0809.1549 Virtual Journal of Biological Physics Research: http://www.vjbio.org/getabs/servlet/GetabsServlet?prog=normal&id=VIRT02000018000007000139000001&idtype=cvips&gifs=Yes Regards Dr Mark McDonnell Research Fellow Institute for Telecommunications Research University of South Australia SPRI Building Mawson Lakes Boulevard Mawson Lakes SA 5095 AUSTRALIA Phone: +61 8 8302 3341 Fax: +61 8302 3817 URL: http://people.unisa.edu.au/Mark.McDonnell Email: mark.mcdonnell@unisa.edu.au Now Available: "Stochastic Resonance: From Suprathreshold Stochastic Resonance to Stochastic Signal Quantization" Mark D. McDonnell, Nigel G. Stocks, Charles E. M. Pearce, Derek Abbott For more information see www.cambridge.org/9780521882620 From adevor at ucsd.edu Mon Oct 26 17:26:00 2009 From: adevor at ucsd.edu (Devor, Anna) Date: Tue Oct 27 18:50:18 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] postdoctoral position at UCSD in neuronal modeling Message-ID: Please see below the description of a postdoctoral opening at University of California in San Diego. Interested applicants please email Dr Anna Devor at adevor@ucsd.edu. ----------------------------------------------------- Postdoctoral Fellow in Modeling of Neuronal Networks ----------------------------------------------------- *Project description* This project is focused on data-driven development of mechanistic models of laminar neuronal cell populations aiming to establish connections between properties at the level of single neurons to the behavior of large neuronal populations. To this end, the project will reconstruct excitatory and inhibitory neuronal activity in the primary somatosensory cortex in response to sensory stimulation through combination of experimental data of different modalities (multi-electrode electrophysiological data, optical imaging data using voltage- and calcium-sensitive fluorescent indicators) in a united theoretical framework. The project will run in parallel and interactively with the ongoing model-driven data acquisition effort. Specific developments will include explicit models of signal generation and propagation within single cortical columns and between neighboring columns, for relating experimental observables to the underlying physiological parameters for single neurons and neur onal populations. *Position description* Under the general supervision of the PI, the postdoctoral fellow will participate in development of a data-driven computational model that would bridge the gap between single-neuron and population rate levels of description, and make explicit predictions about experimental ?observables? associated with spiking and synaptic activity of different cell populations. Responsibilities will also include assisting in data collection and any further development of the existing real-time data acquisition software and hardware that would be necessary for achieving the goals of the model-driven data acquisition effort. *Functions* _Software development_ A. Develop new software and maintain existing software for model fitting of the experimental data of different modalities: optical and electrophysiological. B. Mathematical model development. _Writing papers_ A. Write papers summarizing the scientific results B. Write abstracts and present at scientific meetings _Data analysis_ A. View, process (extract features) and summarize experimental data of different modalities for the comparison with the model output. B. Generate plots, charts and statistical reports for presentation at scientific meetings and publications _Data archiving_ A. Perform back up for relevant modeling and experimental data B. Manage disk space and document data location. _Assistance during data collection_ A. Assist in acquisition of electrophysiological and optical imaging data during experiments designed to validate model predictions. B. Optimize the software and hardware for real-time data acquisition to incorporate specific requirements for model-driven experiments such as specific stimulation paradigms. *Knowledge, skills, and abilities* PhD degree or equivalent in Computational Science, Engineering, Physics or Mathematics or related field is required Background in scientific programming is required Demonstrated experience with programming in Matlab, C, and/or Python is required Demonstrated ability to work independently with high scientific productivity is required Strong analytical and problem solving skills and attention to details is required Background in model fitting and optimization techniques is required Background in signal processing and image analysis is desired Background in computational neuroscience is desired Working knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems and a basic understanding of TCP/IP and network issues is desired Experience in working in multidisciplinary environment that includes experts in neuronal modeling, computational neuroscience, neurobiology, neuroimaging, radiology and physics is desired Understanding of brain physiology/biophysics is preferred From auke.ijspeert at epfl.ch Mon Oct 26 14:25:13 2009 From: auke.ijspeert at epfl.ch (Auke Ijspeert) Date: Tue Oct 27 18:52:17 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] EPFL Center for Neuroprosthetics / Faculty Positions at the interface of Neuroscience and Bioengineering Message-ID: <4AE5A339.9010100@epfl.ch> EPFL Center for Neuroprosthetics / Faculty Positions at the interface of Neuroscience and Bioengineering The Institute of Bioengineering and the Brain-Mind Institute at EPFL invite applications for faculty positions at all ranks, from *tenure track assistant professor to full professor*, for the newly-launched *Center for Neuroprosthetics*. The Center, situated between the School of Engineering and the School of Life Sciences, seeks outstanding individuals working in (1) hearing, and (2) other areas of neuroprosthetics, such as invasive and non-invasive sensing and stimulation in restoration of motor control or sensory perception such as vision. The open faculty positions are offered in an environment of both theoretical and experimental research, rich for the development of novel enabling technologies as well as for seeking deeper understanding of fundamental mechanisms underlying the field of neuroprosthetics. The School of Engineering and the Institute of Bioengineering offer strength in areas that include bio-MEMS/NEMS, bioelectronics, robotics and learning, integrated systems, biomaterials, biophotonics, molecular and computational systems biology, and stem cell biotechnology. The Brain-Mind Institute offers a broader context of neuroscience, with strengths in cognition, behavior, cellular and molecular neuroscience, computational neuroscience, and neurodegeneration, among others. Excellent experimental infrastructure are available including core facilities in animal physiological and behavioral phenomics, animal and human imaging, quantitative light microscopy, genomics and proteomics, micro- and nano-fabrication, and electron microscopy and surface analysis. Successful candidates are expected to initiate independent, creative research programs and participate in undergraduate and graduate teaching. Internationally competitive salaries, start-up resources and benefits are offered. Applications should include a curriculum vitae with a list of publications, a concise statement of research and teaching interests, and the names and addresses (including e-mail) of at least five referees. Applications should be uploaded to: *http://neuroprosthetics-rec.epfl.ch* The deadline for applications is *1 February 2010*. Enquiries may be addressed to: *Prof. Jeffrey A. Hubbell *E-mail: *neuroprosthetics-rec@epfl.ch* For additional information on EPFL, the Schools of Engineering and Life Sciences, the Institute of Bioengineering, and the Brain-Mind Institute, and Institute of Bioengineering, please consult the web sites:* http://www.epfl.ch ,* *http://sti.epfl.ch , http://sv.epfl.ch ,* *http://bmi.epfl.ch *, and *http://ibi.epfl.ch* EPFL aims to increase the presence of women amongst its faculty, and qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Prof Auke Jan Ijspeert Associate Professor EPFL-IC-ISIM-GRIJ EPFL, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne Station 14 CH 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland Office: INN 237 Tel: +41 21 693 2658, Fax: +41 21 693 3705 www: http://birg.epfl.ch Email: Auke.Ijspeert@epfl.ch ----------------------------------------------------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091026/29f2ae69/attachment.html From dicarlo at MIT.EDU Thu Oct 29 05:28:39 2009 From: dicarlo at MIT.EDU (dicarlo) Date: Thu Oct 29 11:38:05 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] Seeking Programmer/Software Developer - McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT Message-ID: Skipped content of type multipart/alternative-------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: smime.p7s Type: application/pkcs7-signature Size: 1845 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091029/217685ea/smime.bin From maneesh at gatsby.ucl.ac.uk Thu Oct 29 15:56:49 2009 From: maneesh at gatsby.ucl.ac.uk (Maneesh Sahani) Date: Thu Oct 29 16:41:47 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] PhD Study at the Gatsby Unit, UCL Message-ID: Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, UCL 4 year PhD Programme The Gatsby Unit is a centre for theoretical neuroscience and machine learning, focusing on unsupervised, semi-supervised and reinforcement learning, neural dynamics, population coding, Bayesian and nonparametric statistics, kernel methods and applications of these to the analysis of perceptual processing, neural data, natural language processing, machine vision and bioinformatics. It provides a unique opportunity for a critical mass of theoreticians to interact closely with each other, and with other world-class research groups in related departments at UCL (University College London), including Anatomy, Computer Science, Functional Imaging, Physics, Physiology, Psychology, Neurology, Ophthalmology and Statistics, the cross-faculty Centre for Computational Statistics and Machine Learning. We also have links with other UK and overseas universities including Cambridge in the UK, Columbia, New York and the Max Planck Institute in Germany. The Unit always has openings for exceptional PhD candidates. Applicants should have a strong analytical background, a keen interest in machine learning and/or neuroscience and a relevant first degree, for example in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics, Psychology or Statistics. The PhD programme lasts four years, including a first year of intensive instruction in techniques and research in machine learning and theoretical neuroscience. Competitive fully-funded studentships are available each year (to students of any nationality) and the Unit also welcomes students with pre-secured funding or with other scholarship/studentship applications in progress. Full details of our programme, and how to apply, are available at: http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/teaching/phd/ For further details of research interests please see: http://www.gatsby.ucl.ac.uk/research.html Applications for 2010 entry (commencing late September 2010) should be received no later than 6th January 2010. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend interview in the week commencing 8th March 2010. From m.lengyel at eng.cam.ac.uk Thu Oct 29 17:09:56 2009 From: m.lengyel at eng.cam.ac.uk (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?M=E1t=E9_Lengyel?=) Date: Thu Oct 29 17:45:15 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] PhD in Computational Neuroscience at Cambridge University Message-ID: <2E4B81CF-E251-45EB-A031-5DFDAB0629C8@eng.cam.ac.uk> Computational Neuroscience @ Cambridge University 3 year PhD Programme The Computational and Biological Learning Lab (CBL) at the Department of Engineering uses engineering approaches to understand the brain and to develop artificial learning systems. Research in computational neuroscience covers learning and memory in perceptual, cognitive, and motor systems. PhD students in the group have the opportunity to pursue computational studies at the neuronal or behavioural level, or experimental studies of human behaviour using state-of-the-art robotic and virtual reality interfaces, or combine computational and experimental approaches. The Department of Engineering has recently received the highest research rating in the UK of all science departments and provides excellent training that includes graduate courses in computational neuroscience and machine learning. CBL is a lively and dynamic group around 30 people, and encourages interaction between all members of the lab, including students, postdocs, and faculty. The entire group meets at least three times a week, on top of various other regular activities, such as reading and journal clubs. Students in computational neuroscience benefit from the strong machine learning group within CBL. Applicants should have * strong problem solving and mathematical skills, * a keen interest in neuroscience, * a relevant first degree, such as Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Physics, Psychology or Statistics. Students seeking to combine work in neuroscience and machine learning are particularly encouraged to apply. The University has a number of competitive fully-funded studentships available each year (to students of any nationality) and CBL also welcomes students with pre-secured funding or with other scholarship/ studentship applications in progress. Informal enquiries are welcome to Daniel Wolpert (wolpert@eng.cam.ac.uk) or Mate Lengyel (m.lengyel@eng.cam.ac.uk). For more information on CBL see: http://learning.eng.cam.ac.uk/Public/BlgHome For further details of how to apply see: http://learning.eng.cam.ac.uk/Public/Graduate Applications for 2010 entry should be received no later than 15 December 2009. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend interview in the week starting with 11 January 2010. -- Mate Lengyel, PhD Computational and Biological Learning Lab Cambridge University Engineering Department Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK tel: +44 (0)1223 748 532, fax: +44 (0)1223 332 662 email: m.lengyel@eng.cam.ac.uk web: www.eng.cam.ac.uk/~m.lengyel From terry at salk.edu Fri Oct 30 03:51:26 2009 From: terry at salk.edu (Terry Sejnowski) Date: Fri Oct 30 10:49:33 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] UCSD Computational Neuroscience Graduate Training Program Message-ID: UCSD COMPUTATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE Neurosciences Graduate Training Program - University of California, San Diego http://neurograd.ucsd.edu/doctoral/cnspec.html http://compneuro.salk.edu/ Application deadline: December 1, 2009 http://neurograd.ucsd.edu/admissions/index.html The goal of the Computational Neuroscience Graduate Program at UCSD is to train researchers who are equally at home measuring large-scale brain activity, analyzing the data with advanced computational techniques, and developing new models for brain development and function. Candidates from a wide range of backgrounds are invited to apply, including Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, Physics and Mathematics. The three major themes in the training program are: 1. Neurobiology of Neural Systems: Anatomy, physiology and behavior of systems of neurons. Using modern neuroanatomical, behavioral, neuropharmacological and electrophysiological techniques. Lectures, wet laboratories and computer simulations, as well as research rotations. Major new imaging and recording techniques also will be taught, including two-photon laser scanning microscopy and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). 2. Algorithms and Realizations for the Analysis of Neuronal Data: New algorithms and techniques for analyzing data obtained from physiological recording, with an emphasis on recordings from large populations of neurons with imaging and multielectrode recording techniques. New methods for the study of co-ordinated activity, such as multi-taper spectral analysis and Independent Component Analysis (ICA). 3. Neuroinformatics, Dynamics and Control of Systems of Neurons: Theoretical aspects of single cell function and emergent properties as many neurons interact among themselves and react to sensory inputs. A synthesis of approaches from mathematics and physical sciences as well as biology will be used to explore the collective properties and nonlinear dynamics of neuronal systems, as well as issues of sensory coding and motor control. Participating Faculty include: * Henry Abarbanel (Physics): Nonlinear and oscillatory dynamics; modeling central pattern generators in the lobster stomatogastric ganglion. * Thomas Albright (Salk Institute): Motion processing in primate visual cortex; linking single neurons to perception; fMRI in awake, behaving monkeys. Director, Sloan Center for Theoretical Neurobiology * Darwin Berg (Neurobiology): Regulation synaptic components, assembly and localization, function and long-term stability. * Ed Callaway (Salk Institute): Neural circuits, visual perception, visual cortex Genetic tools for tracing neural pathways. * Gert Cauwenberghs (Bioengineering/Biology): Neuromorphic Engineering; analog VLSI chips; wireless recording and nanoscale instrumentation for neural systems; large-scale cortical modeling. * Sreekanth Chalasani (Salk): C. elegans: genes, networks and behavior Optical recording of olfactory processing. * Andrea chiba (Cognitive Science): Spatial attention, associative learning, cholinergic neuromodulaiton of behavior, amygdala recordings * EJ Chichilnisky (Salk Institute): Retinal multielectrode recording; neural coding, visual perception. * Garrison Cottrell (Computer Science and Engineering): Dynamical neural network models and learning algorithms * Virginia De Sa (Cognitive Science): Computational basis of perception and learning; multi-sensory integration and contextual influences * Mark Ellisman (Neurosciences, School of Medicine): High resolution electron and light microscopy; anatomical reconstructions. * Fred Gage (Salk Institute): Neurogenesis and models of the hippocampus; neuronal diversity, neural stem cells. * Timothy Gentner (Psychology): Birdsong learning. Neuroethology of vocal communication and audition * Robert Hecht-Nielsen (Electrical and Computer Engineering): Neural computation and the functional organization of the cerebral cortex. * Steve Hillyard (Neurosciences): EEG, perception, attention, memory, Event related potentilas, SSVEP * Harvey Karten (Neurosciences, School of Medicine): Anatomical, physiological and computational studies of the retina and optic tectum of birds and squirrels * David Kleinfeld (Physics): Active sensation in rats; properties of neuronal assemblies; optical imaging of large-scale activity. * William Kristan (Neurobiology): Computational Neuroethology; functional and developmental studies of the leech nervous system, including studies of the bending reflex and locomotion. Director, Neurosciences Graduate Program at UCSD * Herbert Levine (Physics): Nonlinear dynamics and pattern formation in physical and biological systems, including cardiac dynamics and the growth and form of bacterial colonies * Scott Makeig (Institute for Neural Computation): Analysis of cognitive event-related brain dynamics and fMRI using time-frequency and Independent Component Analysis * Javier Movellan (Institute for Neural Computation): Sensory fusion and learning algorithms for continuous stochastic systems * Mikhael Rabinovich (Institute for Nonlinear Science): Dynamical systems analysis of the stomatogastric ganglion of the lobster and the antenna lobe of insects * Pamela Reinagel (Biology): Sensory and neural coding; natural scene statistics; recordings from the visual system of cats and rodents. * John Reynolds (Salk): Visual attention, cortex, psychophysics, neurophysiology, neural modeling * Massimo Scanziani (Biology): Neural circuits in the somotosensory cortex; physiology of synaptic transmission; inhibitory mechanisms. * Terrence Sejnowski (Salk Institute/Neurobiology): Computational models and physiological studies of synaptic, neuronal and network function. * Tanya Sharpee (Salk): Statistical physics and information theory approaches to sensory processing in natural auditory and visual environments. * Gabe Silva (Bioengineering): Cellular neural engineering * Nicholas Spitzer (Neurobiology): Regulation of ionic channels and neurotransmitters in developing neurons and neural function. * Charles Stevens (Salk Institute): Synaptic physiology; theoretical models of neuroanatomical scaling. * Roger Tsien (Chemistry): Second messenger systems in neurons; development of new optical and MRI probes of neuron function, including calcium indicators and caged neurotransmitters * Jing Wang (Biology): Representation of olfactory information in the nervous system of Drosophila * Ruth Williams (Mathematics): Probabilistic analysis of stochastic systems and continuous learning algorithms On-line applications: http://neurograd.ucsd.edu/admissions/index.html The deadline for completed application materials, including letters of recommendation, is December 1, 2008. ----- From caroline.floccia at plymouth.ac.uk Fri Oct 30 17:04:11 2009 From: caroline.floccia at plymouth.ac.uk (Caroline Floccia) Date: Fri Oct 30 17:21:45 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] job offers at the University of Plymouth Message-ID: <3f32fb730910300904q48c2d3e6j28baa4fdbe5b606d@mail.gmail.com> *Dear colleagues,* ** *With a very short deadline for application, here are 3 job offers (1 Chair and 2 Lecturers) at the University of Plymouth, potentially in cognitive neuroscience. Please pass it on as it can be of interest for many people.* *Thanks, Caroline * * * *The University of Plymouth* *School of Psychology* * * *Chair in Psychology* *Salary negotiable on Senior Managers Scale Ref: A1413* * * The School is looking to fill the following roles in order to complement and build upon its existing research strengths. In the recent RAE the School was ranked in the top third of psychology departments in the UK, with 85% of its research activity judged to be of international standard. Currently the School has established expertise in several fields, with research organised around the recently recognised University Research Centre in Brain, Cognition and Behaviour.The centre encompasses research excellence in Thinking and Reasoning, Memory,Vision, Behavioural Neuroscience, Language Development, Social Psychology, Health and Well Being and Human Factors. We will consider applications from outstanding applicants in any area of Psychology, but would particularly welcome candidates in the areas of Cognitive, Social or Developmental Neuroscience. You should have an excellent research track record as demonstrated through world leading research activity. For an informal discussion, please contact by email Professor Simon Handley, Head of School at simon.handley@plymouth.ac.uk although applications must be made in accordance with the details shown below. *A Final Salary Pension Scheme is available.* * * *To apply, please visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/vacancies* *Email: jobs@plymouth.ac.uk* *Tel: 01752 588199 (24 hour answerphone).* * * *Closing date: 12 noon, Monday 30 November 2009.* * * *Promoting Equality and Diversity.* * * * * * * *Lecturers in Psychology (2 posts)* *?30,594 to ?35,469 pa Ref: A1411* * * The School is looking to fill the following roles in order to complement and build upon its existing research strengths. In the recent RAE the School was ranked in the top third of psychology departments in the UK, with 85% of its research activity judged to be of international standard. Currently the School has established expertise in several fields, with research organised around the recently recognised University Research Centre in Brain, Cognition and Behaviour.The centre encompasses research excellence in Thinking and Reasoning, Memory,Vision, Behavioural Neuroscience, Language Development, Social Psychology, Health and Well Being and Human Factors. We will consider applications from outstanding applicants in any area of Psychology, but would particularly welcome candidates in the areas of Cognitive, Social or Developmental Neuroscience. We are looking to appoint candidates who have a strong research track record as demonstrated through publication and income generation. You would be expected to contribute to one of these research groups, or be involved in the creation of a new research grouping. For an informal discussion, please contact by email Professor Simon Handley, Head of School at simon.handley@plymouth.ac.uk although applications must be made in accordance with the details shown below. *A Final Salary Pension Scheme is available.* * * *To apply, please visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/vacancies* *Email: jobs@plymouth.ac.uk* *Tel: 01752 588199 (24 hour answerphone).* * * *Closing date: 12 noon, Monday 30 November 2009.* * * *Promoting Equality and Diversity.* -- Dr. Caroline Floccia Lecturer PSQ A213 School of Psychology University of Plymouth Drake Circus Devon PL4 8AA tel: (+0044) 1752 584822 -- Dr. Caroline Floccia Lecturer PSQ A213 School of Psychology University of Plymouth Drake Circus Devon PL4 8AA tel: (+0044) 1752 584822 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091030/0f22a53d/attachment.html From ubi at rmki.kfki.hu Fri Oct 30 17:04:36 2009 From: ubi at rmki.kfki.hu (Ujfalussy Balazs) Date: Fri Oct 30 17:21:49 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] BUDAPEST SEMESTER IN COGNITIVE SCIENCE Message-ID: ******************* BUDAPEST SEMESTER IN COGNITIVE SCIENCE (BSCS, www.bscs-us.org), a Hungarian study abroad program, established in 2003, conducted in English for undergraduate students. BSCS offers credit-earning courses for psychology, philosophy, linguistics, biology, computer sciences majors; as well as continuous and optional intensive Hungarian language courses. The programme is complemented by an optional independent research module tailored to students' curricula and research interests. The Programme is hosted by the Department of History and Philosophy of Science of the E?tv?s Lor?nd University (ELTE), Hungary's premium science university established in 1635 and serving as a centre of excellence for modern higher education covering nearly every scientific discipline, with a world-class new campus recently added to its premises where BSCS courses are conducted. Lecturers headlining the program between ?2004-2009 included Professors, in addition to leading academic staff of ELTE, from highly distinguished universities, such as UC Berkeley; Indiana University; University of Sussex; Kalamazoo College, Uinversity Vienna, Technical University Vienna, Hokkaido University, University of Ljubljana etc. For the details click to 'Download program description' at www.bscs-us.org! Send inquiries to P?ter ?rdi (Co-Director, perdi@kzoo.edu) an Szilvia Lehel (BSCS Study Abroad Programme Manager, sylvialehel@yahoo.com). ************* From friedhelm.schwenker at uni-ulm.de Fri Oct 30 18:36:05 2009 From: friedhelm.schwenker at uni-ulm.de (Friedhelm Schwenker) Date: Sat Oct 31 13:09:04 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] ANNPR 2010, extended submission deadline Message-ID: <4AEB2405.90901@uni-ulm.de> ================================================================ Call for Papers IAPR Workshop on Artificial Neural Networks for Pattern Recognition (ANNPR 2010) April 11-13, 2010, Nile University, Cairo www.informatik.uni-ulm.de/ni/ANNPR10/index.html ================================================================ ************ new submission deadline : November, 16, 2009 **************************** ANNPR 2010 follows the success of ANNPR 2003 (Florence), ANNPR 2006 (Ulm), and ANNPR 2008 (Paris). This 4th IAPR ANNPR workshop will act as a major forum for international researchers and practitioners working in all areas of neural network based pattern recognition to present and discuss the latest research, results, and ideas in these areas. Papers are solicited dealing with neural networks and pattern recognition which emphasize methodological issues arising in applications. They should be related but not limited to the following topics. * Supervised learning. * Unsupervised learning. * Combination of supervized and unsupervized learning. * Feedforward networks and kernel machines * Recurrent and competitive neural networks. * Hierarchical modular architectures and hybrid systems. * Combination of neural networks and Hidden Markov models. * Multiple classifier systems and ensemble methods. * Image processing and segmentation. * Sensorfusion and multimodal processing. * Feature extraction, dimension reduction. * Clustering and vector quantisation. * Speech and speaker recognition. * Data, text, and web mining. * Bioinformatics. Potential participants should submit a paper describing their work in one of the areas described above. Proceedings will be published as a volume in the Springer LNAI, maximum paper length is 12 pages in LNCS/LNAI format. Instructions for authors, LaTeX templates,etc are available at the (Springer LNCS/LNAI website) . Submission of a paper constitutes a commitment that, if accepted, one or more authors will attend the workshop. Electronic submission in camera-ready format is required. Please submit papers to the ANNPR chairs (Friedhelm Schwenker and Neamat El Gayar) annpr2010@uni-ulm.de * Important Dates: * Paper submission: November 16, 2009 Notification of acceptance: December 22, 2009 Camera ready copies: January 20, 2010 ==================================================================================== -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://www.neuroinf.org/pipermail/comp-neuro/attachments/20091030/f7d9bee8/attachment.html From a.k.seth at sussex.ac.uk Sat Oct 31 12:40:05 2009 From: a.k.seth at sussex.ac.uk (Anil Seth) Date: Mon Nov 2 14:48:39 2009 Subject: [Comp-neuro] 3yr postdoc position available in consciousness science Message-ID: <4AEC2215.5090801@sussex.ac.uk> A full-time 3yr post-doctoral position is available within the new multidisciplinary Sackler Centre for Consciousness Science (SCCS) at the University of Sussex, starting early 2010. This research initiative is funded by a founding donation from the Mortimer and Theresa Sackler Foundation. You will work with Dr. Anil Seth (Principal Investigator and SCCS co-director), Prof. Hugo Critchley (Chair in Psychiatry and SCCS co-director) and other researchers in the group, on developing and testing cognitive/computational neuroscience accounts of neural mechanisms underlying consciousness, in health and in disease. The post has a broad remit with opportunities to follow your own research interests within the area of cognitive/computational neuroscience relevant to consciousness. Emphasis will be given to research that integrates functional neuroimaging, behavioural experiments, and computational modelling and analysis. The SCCS has access to multiple neuroimaging methods including fMRI, EEG, and TMS, as well as excellent computational resources. Candidates must have a PhD or equivalent degree in a quantitative science discipline. Prior postdoctoral experience is preferred, as are candidates with a strong background in cognitive neuroscience and neural modelling/analysis. For more information and for how to apply, please see http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/AAF848/. A second 3yr position with a more clinical focus will shortly be available in the same centre. -- Anil Seth, D.Phil. Reader, EPSRC Leadership Fellow, Dept of Informatics, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QJ, UK W: www.anilseth.com, T: +44 1273 678549