[visionlist] Two PhD positions in Computational Neuroscience in Bremen, Germany (salary E13/2)

[Udo Ernst]

*Two PhD positions in Computational Neuroscience in Bremen, Germany 
(salary E13/2)*

These positions are part of the newly established research group 'Rapid 
Parallel Configuration of Visual Information Processing'. The group is 
funded by the BMBF via the Bernstein Award for Computational 
Neurosciences (1.25 Mio. €), granted to the group leader Dr. Udo Ernst. 
Research is divided into four interdisciplinary subprojects combining 
theory, simulation, and experimental work. Applications in either 
English or German language should include a letter of motivation, CV, 
copies of school and university certificates (master/diploma or 
equivalent), and should be sent to ajanssen at neuro.uni-bremen.de until 
*May 31st, 2012**.***For a more detailed description of the research 
project and other open positions, please visit our web site at 
http://www.bernstein.uni-bremen.de**

*/(1) Neural mechanisms, anatomical structures, and collective dynamics 
of rapid functional configuration/*

Goal of the first PhD-thesis is to investigate parallel functional 
configuration in the visual system by performing bottom-up modelling in 
combination with numerical simulations and mathematical analysis. This 
work also includes assistance in analyzing data from neurophysiological 
recordings in collaboration with the other subprojects, and generating 
model predictions for the ongoing experiments.
The candidate should possess a master/diploma or an equivalent degree in 
natural sciences (i.e., Physics, Mathematics or Computer Sciences), and 
have a strong background in dynamical systems/non-linear 
dynamics/information theory. Proficiency in a higher computer language 
such as C, Python, or Matlab is required. Ideally, the PhD student 
should have basic knowledge about neuronal networks and the physiology 
of the visual system. We expect a high motivation for communicating and 
collaborating with the other subprojects.

*/(2) Computational principles of rapid functional configuration/***

Goal of the second PhD-thesis is to analyze parallel functional 
configuration in the visual system as adaptive information processing 
within the framework of probabilistic generative models. On the basis of 
the models emerging from this top-down approach, approximate neuronal 
algorithms shall be derived that realize functional configuration under 
biophysically realistic constraints in hierarchical networks. The PhD 
student will collaborate with the other subprojects, for comparing model 
dynamics to psychophysics, and for developing novel experimental 
paradigms suitable for testing specific model predictions.
The candidate should possess a master/diploma or an equivalent degree in 
natural sciences (i.e., Physics, Mathematics or Computer Sciences), and 
have a strong background in generative models/probabilistic 
networks/information theory. Proficiency in a higher computer language 
such as C, Python, or Matlab is required. Ideally, the PhD student 
should have basic knowledge about nonlinear dynamics and the physiology 
of the visual system. We expect a high motivation for communicating and 
collaborating with the other subprojects.

*/General Information/*

The group is hosted by the Center for Cognitive Sciences (Zentrum für 
Kognitionswissenschaften, ZKW; http://www.zkw.uni-bremen.de) in the new 
Cognium building on the campus of the University Bremen. Neuroscience is 
one of the special research foci at the university, which includes 
different labs working in Human Psychophysics, Electrophysiology, 
Neuropharmacology, Psychology, Computer Sciences and other related 
disciplines. Bremen is a nice little town in northern Germany with a 
rich maritime history. The city offers a vivid cultural life, with 
cinemas, performing arts, music events, and street festivals. Enjoy the 
cafes or bistros in charming old houses, discover the beauties of a 
landscape between water and sky on your bike, or visit the seashore with 
dunes and dikes!
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