Multi-scale Modeling in Computational Neuroscience

To be held April 30 - May 5, 2012, University of Lübeck, Lübeck Germany

As the field of computational neuroscience continues to mature, it is clear that understanding the nervous system from a computational point of view will require modeling at multiple levels of scale from sub-cellular to systems and behavior. This hands-on workshop will consider both issues and techniques involved in modeling nervous systems at single levels of scale such as intracellular, single neuron and network models, as well as the opportunities for scientific discovery when models at these scales are linked. With a strong emphasis on hands on experience, the workshop will also include lectures focused on multi-scale modeling. The workshop is designed for advanced graduate students, postdoctoral fellows or faculty interesting in the practical application and development of multi-scale modeling techniques.

Through simulation projects, participants will have the opportunity to create realistic neural models from sub-cellular to network levels. This will provide an excellent opportunity for those with previous experience in neural simulation to learn new techniques and strategies for multi-scale modeling. Although participants can use the simulator of their choosing, this workshop will also introduce GENESIS 3 (G-3), a modular reimplementation of the GENESIS neural simulator that has capabilities uniquely suited for multi-scale modeling.

The international faculty includes:

Dr. James M. Bower (University of Texas System) who has been involved in the development of software tools for multi-scale modeling for 30 years.

Dr. David Beeman (University of Colorado) who has supported multi-scale modeling both as an instructor in numerous international courses in computational biology as well as in his role as director of the GENESIS users group.

Dr. Avrama Blackwell (George Mason University) who’s modeling and experimental expertise involves the investigation of molecular synaptic mechanisms.

Dr. Hugo Cornelis (Lead GENESIS developer) with expertise both in the design and construction of multi-scale simulation systems as well as modeling at single cell and network levels.

Dr. Volker Steuber (University of Hertfordshire) with expertise in biochemical, single cell, network and systems level modeling and analysis.

Mr. Armando Rodriguez (University of Texas San Antonio) an expert in interface design and interoperability in simulations systems.

Application deadline is April 10.

Applications and inquiries should be sent to: gen3@gradschool.uni-luebeck.de

Please see the website at:

https://www.gradschool.uni-luebeck.de/index.php?id=366

for the latest detailed information.

The workshop is limited to 20 total participants and therefore, those interested should register as soon as possible. In addition to the scientific activities, several social activities have also been planned including a day spent on the shore of the Baltic Sea.

Given the relatively short time before the workshop, we would greatly appreciate it if you would pass this announcement on to other colleagues and students who may find it of interest.