Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience Summer School
CNeuro2025 Teaching Assistants
Junjie Huang
University of Basel, Switzerland
I am a PhD student in the Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience Group at the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), supervised by Rava Azeredo da Silveira. I earned my B.Sc. in Mathematics and Physics at Tsinghua University, where I conducted undergraduate research in the Laboratory of Brain and Intelligence under Sen Song.
My work explores how functional computations emerge from neural circuits, with a particular emphasis on learning, memory, and spatial navigation. At present, I am investigating how the head-direction system learns and integrates visual landmarks.
My academic journey has been closely intertwined with CNeuro. I first joined the program as an auditor at CNeuro 2019, an experience that broadened my perspective on computational neuroscience and introduced me to exceptional speakers. I returned as a participant in 2022, and last year I served as a teaching assistant at CNeuro 2024, where the vibrant student interactions were truly inspiring. I am delighted to be back as a TA for CNeuro 2025—my second time in this role. I greatly enjoy the stimulating discussions and the collaborative environment that CNeuro fosters, and I look forward to meeting everyone in Shanghai.
Luke Ewig
University of Basel, Switzerland
I am a PhD student under the supervision of Rava Azeredo da Silveira in the Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience Group located at the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel. Prior to this, I studied physics at Goethe University Frankfurt, and conducted my B.Sc. and M.Sc. research at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies. My current research focuses on the head-direction system and theoretical models of the neuronal networks that underlie it. In a collaborative project, I investigate how visual and vestibular motion cues contribute to updating the head-direction estimate in the mouse brain. I previously participated in CNeuro in 2020 as a student and returned in 2022 as a teaching assistant. Both experiences introduced me to a range of novel and exciting ideas, and I particularly enjoyed the discussions with participants from diverse backgrounds. I look forward to returning as a teaching assistant at this year’s summer school and meeting all of you.
Meiyi Zhang
Peking University in Beijing, China
Hi, I’m Meiyi Zhang, and I’m very happy to be a TA at CNeuro 2025. Last year, I volunteered at the CNeuro, when I met peers and learned a lot. That's why I didn't hesitate to join the TA team this year.
I come from Beijing, recently graduated from Peking University with an undergraduate degree, majoring in Bioinformatics and Physics. I will start my PhD in the Center of Quantative Biology, Peking University this September.
I've always been interested in computational neuroscience. I work in Professor Louis Tao's lab, focusing on how local connectivity motifs influence global network dynamics. Through random matrix theory we identified the impact of two-neuron motif on population response recently.
CNeuro, in my mind, is an excellent platform that fosters interactions and offers insights into the development of the field. — I'm really looking forward to the fulfilling week with all of you!
Ruilin Zhang
Peking University in Beijing, China
Hello everyone, this is Ruilin Zhang. I am a PhD student at Peking University, where I obtained my BS in Integrated Science. I am currently investigating the neural mechanisms underlying the multiscale generation of cuttlefish skin patterns based on experimental data, as well as the dynamics and synthesis of idealized neuronal networks and related dynamical systems.
Having participated in CNeuro as both a student and a teaching assistant, I’ve been continually inspired by the chance to acquire new knowledge each year and to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Building our community on shared curiosity and enthusiasm has been a truly rewarding journey. CNeuro continues to evolve and grow, and I believe CNeuro2025 will be an exciting experience for everyone. I look forward to meeting you in Shanghai this year.
Yukun Cheng
University of Science and Technology in China (USTC) in Hefei, China
Yukun graduated from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) with a bachelor's degree in 2022 and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in computational neuroscience. His research focuses on investigating whole-brain activity manipulation in C.elegans, aiming to uncover fundamental principles of neural circuit dynamics and their behavioral implications through computational modeling and experimental design. Beyond his academic pursuits, he is an ardent admirer of music and an avid cat enthusiast. He also thrives on stories in all forms and loves exploring the world through both intellectual and physical journeys.
Zhuoran Li
Peking University in Beijing, China
I am Zhuoran Li, a second-year Ph.D. candidate in Prof. Louis Tao’s lab at Peking University. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in the Integrated Science Program from Peking University.
My current research focuses on the relationship between the structure of neuronal networks and their dynamical properties. Specifically, I construct networks with varying architectures to study their dynamical behaviors—particularly the 1/f phenomenon in power spectra—and employ dimensionality reduction and analytical approaches to understand these behaviors from a structural perspective.
As a participant in the CNeuro2022 Summer School, I gained exposure to experimentally grounded research in computational neuroscience, broadening my perspective on the field. My own work lies in the more theoretical and fundamental aspects of computational neuroscience, but the summer school deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary connections. This inspired me to serve as a teaching assistant for CNeuro2025, where I hope to contribute to lectures and discussions while helping other students benefit from the program as I did.