Neural coding and connectivity are shaped by learning. What is the neural code and the underlying connectivity in the motor cortex before learning a particular task? Check out our new study with @svoboda314 (1/7)

We identified highly non-random local connectivity, including hub neurons with weak location-tuning and reward-outcome tuning but a strong influence on neighboring neurons. This suggests that hub neurons may orchestrate the local network during goal-directed behavior (7/7)

We mapped causal connectivity of > 20,000,000 pairs of motor cortex neurons. Location-tuned neurons are organized in functional mini-columns with preferential like-to-like connectivity. (6/7)

To study the underlying network connectivity, we developed an all-optical method for rapid optogenetic mapping of causal connectivity (causal interactions) in vivo (5/7)

Neurons tuned to target location were active late with respect to movement initiation. These neurons were also tuned to reward outcome, suggesting a vectorial coding of prediction error that may facilitate efficient learning (4/7)

We found a network of neurons in the motor cortex that encodes target location (resembling place cells). This tuning was observed from the very first day of behavior, suggesting that it reflects an ‘innate’ coding scheme in the motor cortex. (3/7)

We developed a naturalistic goal-directed behavior in mice (inspired by multidirectional reaching behaviors in primate research), which does not require any pre-training (2/7)

RT @AyeletSarel: Whether I'm reading books to my son or consoling my crying kids, my mind keeps drifting to them. It's a heartbreaking situ….

RT @e_mackevicius: I'm co-founding Basis Research Institute ( with @ZennaTavares and Eli Bingham!! As Zenna said, m….

Open faculty position in Computational/Theoretical Neuroscience at our department in Tel Aviv University. Join us!.

RT @inna_slutsky: Open faculty position in computational neuroscience in our department! 👇🏻Please RT.

RT @LabNir: Position in Computational/Theoretical Neuroscience | Tel Aviv University | come work with us!

RT @Fran_Sacadura: New preprint by @chris_m_kim, @arseny_fink, @ccc1685, @svoboda314 & Ran Darshan on how distributed task-related neural a….

We are #hiring for Funded PhD and Postdoc Positions in Systems Neuroscience, Finkelstein lab at Tel Aviv University. Message me if you're interested in joining our team. We are attending COSYNE 2022 if you would like to meet! #cosyne22 - via #Whova event app

Tel Aviv University is offering emergency fellowships for Ukrainian students. Тель-Авивский Университет предлагает стипендии для студентов из Украины.