Recent advances at the intersection of neuroscience and control theory have revealed novel mechanisms by which dynamical systems perform computation. These include a wide range of computational tasks used for model learning and training, memory retrieval, data-driven control, and optimization. The workshop will highlight brain-inspired approaches to computation, aimed at improving scalability, robustness, and energy efficiency in artificial systems, while deepening our understanding of these properties in natural systems. Emphasis will be placed on the biological plausibility of the underlying neural models, with the goal of steering the discussion beyond conventional neural network models.

The workshop will include an extensive list of presentations by leading researchers covering four major themes: 1) Memory associative dynamical models for pattern recognition and computation; 2) Neural circuits for learning, adaptation, and training; 3) Brain-inspired methods for control and safety protocols; and 4) Unconventional platforms and emerging design challenges for machine learning.

The workshop is primarily intended for researchers, academics, and graduate students working at the intersection of control theory, dynamical systems, neuroscience, and computational modeling. The thematic organization of the workshop is designed to make the content accessible to a broader audience not yet familiar with neuroscience. The first talk will introduce the audience to dynamical models used for neurocomputation, illustrating how neural systems can store information, recall patterns from partial cues, and adapt their behavior to changing conditions. By featuring a diverse range of topics—from neural network dynamics and oscillator networks to contraction theory and nonparametric control—we aim to provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape and inspire new initiatives.

Check out the program schedule below for the talk titles and abstracts.

There will be a Lightning Talk session where you can have the opportunity to present your work at our workshop! Interested participants should send an email to Arthur Montanari (arthur.montanari@northwestern.edu) including the authors, affiliations, talk title and abstract (up to 300 words).

Application deadline: October 31, 2025
Acceptance notification: November 15, 2025