Computational Neuroscience Group
Our lab uses mathematical models of synapses, neurons and networks to explain aspects of perception and behaviour. We consider models for the cortical pyramidal neurons and micro-circuitries which are being experimentally investigated in vivo and in vitro at our
Department 1.
A further interest is the neuronal substrate of learning and memory. One question we are addressing is how state-action sequences can be learned from an ongoing stream of synaptic inputs and a single delayed feedback signal 2. We also develop models of sensory processing and its interaction with cortical top-down signals. These explain experimental recordings from the visual cortex obtained while solving perceptual or classification tasks 3, 4.
Our models try to highlight some key mechanisms by which the interaction of synapses and neurons enables our brains to deal with everyday tasks.
Highlights
Striking a Deal with AI: new Interview in the Berner Zeitung!
Walter Senn and Federico Benitez discussed their latest work on AI consciousness and explored how a "Human-AI Deal" could define the rights and responsibilities between humans and machines.
Read the interview: Berner Forscher wollen einen Deal zwischen Mensch und Maschine (pdf)
-> related Publication and Press Release
New Article in eLife!
Searching the most efficient path to real-time learning
"A Neuronal Least-action Principle For Real-time Learning In Cortical Circuits" - See Publication and Digest
New Article in AI and Ethics!
A model for consciousness emergence in AI systems, governed by a "Human-AI Deal"
"The conductor model of consciousness, our neuromorphic twins, and the human-AI deal"
See Publication and Press Release
News articles: myScience - swissinfo.ch - Blick
Interview on artificial intelligence (AI) for the play "Majorie Prime" - Effingertheater Bern, 24. August - 20. September 2024 - Info
Walter Senn shares insights from his work on AI to discuss "Marjorie Prime", a play depicting the recreation of a loved one as an AI.
Read the full interview
EBRAINS 2.0 - New funded Project! - Start: 01.01.2024 / Runtime: 3 years
The EBRAINS 2.0 project was submitted in response to the INFRASERV call (a Horizon Europe's Research Infrastructures actions) and was awarded €38 million to further develop the EBRAINS research infrastructure services, a legacy of the Human Brain Project.
The project involves 59 partner institutions from 16 European countries and officially started in January 2024. As partners, our group together with NeuroTMA were granted €1.1 million.