Connectionists: PhD position on Accelerating motor learning with computational scaffolding (Tel Aviv)

[Jason Friedman]

(also see online: http://www.movementscienceslab.com/PhDApril2020.pdf)

Tel-Aviv University offers a funded full-time PhD position on “Accelerating
motor learning with computational scaffolding” starting in the summer



The last few years have seen an amazing explosion in artificial
intelligence and machine learning - helping machines learn to perform tasks
better. In this project, we will use similar techniques to optimize the
human learning experience in learning complex motor behaviour.
------------------------------

*Your tasks*

We will tackle the problem of learning complex motor tasks using a
technique known as computational scaffolding. You will play a central role
in both designing, setting up, running and analyzing the behavioural
experiments with human participants, as well as working on the machine
learning algorithms to perform the guidance, based on recordings from
experts teaching novices. The techniques developed in this project will
eventually allow enhanced remote tele-operation for learning new skills and
rehabilitation in different populations.



The experiments will involve motion capture, recording performance from an
electric piano and use of an exoskeleton for guidance. You will be
supervised by Dr. Jason Friedman, from the Dept. Physical Therapy & Sagol
School of Neuroscience, and the project will be performed collaboratively
with the group of Prof. Dr. Helge Ritter, from the NeuroInformatics group
at Bielefeld University in Germany.
------------------------------

*Your profile*

We expect:

-       M.Sc or equivalent in Computer Science, Biomedical engineering,
Physical Therapy, Neuroscience, Psychology, Physics, Motor Control, or
related areas

-       Knowledge and experience in machine learning and artificial
intelligence

-       Excellent programming skills

-       Very good English (written and spoken)

-       Independent, self-reliant and dedicated style of work

-       Strong organizational and communication skills

-       Ability to cooperate and to work in a team

-       A background in music is an advantage
------------------------------



The successful applicant will apply to be a PhD student in the Faculty of
Medicine or the Sagol School of Neuroscience. The research will primarily
take place on the campus of Tel Aviv University in Tel Aviv, Israel.  Tel
Aviv University, with over 30,000 students, is the largest university in
Israel, with a vibrant research community. The student will receive a
stipend at the standard Tel Aviv University rate.


------------------------------



*Application Procedure*



Send the following by email to Dr. Jason Friedman (jason at tau.ac.il):

-       A CV

-       A transcript of your grades from your M.Sc studies

-       A cover letter describing how you meet the profile and why you are
interested in the position

-       Names, affiliations, and email address of two academic references


Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online video interview



Recruitment will take place immediately until a suitable applicant is found

--
Jason Friedman, PhD
Senior Lecturer
Department of Physical Therapy
Tel Aviv University
email: write.to.jason at gmail.com
web: http://curiousjason.com
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://mailman.srv.cs.cmu.edu/pipermail/connectionists/attachments/20200414/9b63da39/attachment.html>