Unlock the Future of Neuroscience
TReND-CaMinA
Computational Neuroscience and Machine Learning in Africa
29 June – 15 July, 2026
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Nyeri, Kenya
Why CaMinA?
TReND-CaMinA is an intensive entry level course designed to equip participants with basic skills in Computational Neuroscience and Machine Learning. Our mission is to foster scientific excellence and innovation across Africa by providing hands-on training and exposure to the latest technological advancements in these fields. Join us to be part of a vibrant community of researchers dedicated to driving development through science.
Inspired by the Spanish word ‘camina’ — to walk — our course brings people from across the world to learn, grow, and continue walking forward together.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from individuals residing in African countries, with a background in neuroscience, medicine, computer science, engineering, or related fields. Ideal candidates should possess a strong academic record and a keen interest in computational methods and machine learning applications in neuroscience. The course is designed for final year undergraduates and master students. Highly motivated PhD students and early career researchers who are interested in exploring these fields will also be considered.
Previous coding exposure is required. In order for all students to start with the necessary fundamentals, a 1-day online pre-course on Python coding tailored to neuroscience, as well as material for self-study will be offered. Students with quantitative backgrounds will be expected to help their peers in their coding assignments. Likewise, students with biological backgrounds will be expected to help technical students understand neurophysiological concepts.
Application
Requirements
Applications open
15 December 2025
Applications close
31 January 2026
To apply for the TReND-CaMinA course, applicants must submit:
- a completed application form that enquires about academic background and motivation outlining their interest in computational neuroscience and machine learning
- a 1-page CV
- two letters of recommendation.
The school
Duration
29 June – 15 July, 2026
The program runs for six working days (Monday to Saturday, 9am to 7pm), followed by one rest day (Sunday) spent exploring the beautiful surroundings of Nyeri.
Program Structure
The course is divided into three complementary modules:
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Interactive lectures and practical sessions — blending concepts from neuroscience, mathematics, and machine learning with Python-based tutorials.
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Collaborative research projects — small-group investigations using real neural datasets from the Allen Institute, guided by experienced mentors.
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Inspiring keynote lectures — delivered by leading researchers from Africa and around the world, highlighting cutting-edge advances in computational neuroscience and machine learning.
Funding & Support
TReND–CaMinA is fully funded — there are no course fees. All selected participants receive a full scholarship covering:
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Round-trip airfare from a major international airport in their home country
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Accommodation and meals for the duration of the course
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All course materials and participation costs
What You Will Gain
Participants will:
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Build a strong foundation in computational neuroscience and machine learning
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Gain hands-on experience with world-class datasets
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Become competitive candidates for advanced training programs such as Imbizo, Neuromatch Academy, or international Master’s/PhD opportunities
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Join the TReND Alumni Network, connecting with peers and mentors from across Africa and beyond
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Access continued mentorship and an international research network after the course
Faculty
Dr. Saskia de Vries
Allen Institute, USA
Dr. Michael Buice
Allen Institute, USA
Dr. Albert Njoroge Kahira
AstraZeneca R&D, Spain
Dr. Poornima Ramesh
IDinsight, Kenya
Dr. Ann Hermundstad
Janelia-HHMI Research Campus, USA
Prof. Byron Yu
Carnegie Mellon University, USA
Dr. Vivek Jayaraman
Janelia-HHMI Research Campus, USA
Prof. Guillaume Lajoie
Mila / University of Montreal, Canada
Prof. Ryszard Auksztulewicz
Maastricht University, Netherlands
Prof. Pedro Gonçalves
Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders / VIB.AI, Belgium
Organising committee
The TReND-CaMinA course is organized by a dedicated team of early career researcher committed to advancing education in Africa. Our organisers are responsible for curriculum development, logistics, and ensuring a transformative learning experience for all participants.
Dr. Saray Soldado-Magraner
University of California Los Angeles, USA
Dr. Joana Soldado-Magraner
Carnegie Mellon University, USA
Dr. Gabriela Michel
Janelia-HHMI Research Campus, USA
Prof. Emmanuel Marquez-Legorreta
Utrecht University, Netherlands
Dr. Tom George
Mila Quebec AI Institute, Canada
Dr. Ash Parker
Humbolt University, Germany
Dr. Artemis Koumoundourou
VIB-KU Leuven CBD, Belgium / TReND in Africa, UK
Dr. Elizabeth Mutua
Dedan Kimathi University, Kenya
Teaching & Support team
Polina Turishcheva
University of Göttingen, Germany
Gilgal Justice Ansah
University of Pittsburgh, USA
Svenja Küchenhoff
University of Oxford, UK
Dr. Marwan Zouinkhi
Janelia HHMI Research Campus, USA
Dr. Marcus Ghosh
Imperial College London, UK
Maryada
University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Switzerland
Jo Warren
University College London, UK
Stephen Kiilu
University of Texas at Austin, USA / CaMinA alumnus
Dr. Burak Gür
FMI Basel, Switzerland
Vincent Ogwal
Kyambogo University, Uganda / CaMinA alumnus
Mahmoud Elmakki
Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Portugal
Sponsors
Partner Institutes
Student Testimonials
