LACONEU 2025

The Latin-American Summer School in Computational Neuroscience [LACONEU] seeks to advance the field of Computational Neuroscience in Latin America by utilizing advanced mathematical and computational science tools, along with their applications in biomedical research and clinical practice. This interdisciplinary exploration of brain function, which integrates neuroscience, mathematics, and computational techniques, enhances our comprehension of brain activities in both healthy and diseased conditions. It also propels notable progress in education, theoretical models, brain imaging, and biomedical treatments. At this Summer School, our goal is to establish an engaging and interactive environment where students and researchers can exchange ideas, based on fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge of computational neuroscience, to encourage regional internationalization. This initiative aims to build strong and enduring collaborations between Latin America and more developed nations. The distinguished Faculty team involved in this Summer School offers a unique chance to significantly advance research in this field within our countries.

Special Topic: Dynamic Systems, Machine Learning and Neural Computation

For the forthcoming VII LACONEU 2025 school, we are broadening our upcoming scientific and academic program to encompass a spectrum of pioneering subjects, reflecting advances and research in computational neuroscience:

i) Dynamic Systems: We will explore different mathematical and computational frameworks employed to elucidate the dynamics of complex neural systems over time, scrutinizing their relevance to brain functions.

ii) Machine learning: Concentrating on the intersection of artificial intelligence and neuroscience, we will explore the theoretical foundations and practical implementations of machine learning techniques in the analysis of neural data, simulation of brain processes, and the development of AI systems with neural-like attributes.

iii) Neural computation: We will review contemporary research and methodologies in neuroscience, examining the latest discoveries in neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and cognitive functions, thus providing a solid foundation for computational analysis and modeling.

iv) In vivo and in vitro Recording data set and Computational Analysis: Highlighting practical methodologies for the acquisition and evaluation of neural data, this segment will familiarize participants with state-of-the-art techniques for in vivo recording, including electrophysiological, optical, and imaging methods, as well as computational strategies for data analysis and interpretation. We will use a multielectrode array method (MEA-256 electrodes) device from a retina lab facility at the Universidad de Valparaiso to introduce practical issues for in vitro recording and its follow computational results analysis.

Hands-on: The student will be enrolled, with a significant time commitment, in practical tutorials, problem-solving, data analysis, and MEA will be use to observe how in-vitro retina data is collected

Student activities:  We expect the participation of very motivated students that will spend most of their time attending LACONEU 2025, therefore we have prepared a rich program of activities:

Tutorials: to learn hands-on cutting edge techniques in modeling and analysis.

Practical training and Projects: The school has an important hands-on training, either tutored or as free students work. During the afternoon/evenings of LACONEU 2025, the students will work on a research project. Highly qualified tutors on neural modeling will help students and several speakers will offer hands-on tutorials. By the end of the third week, students will be invited to present a research report and an oral defense of their projects, which will be evaluated by faculties.

Morning Lectures: Students will participate in lectures given by distinguished national and international faculty on the topics of the School.

Evening lectures: Speakers will offer seminars to showcase how the techniques they teach are translated into scientific results. Open to all audiences.

The registration form will be open from august 1 to september 30, 2024

Registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2xunovJtgqzCTew4Yit-Jc9PEpOjt9Mjt5zQM1fS9FFCZlA/viewform

More information: https://laconeu.cl/