Our Programs

INCF Programs tackle specific issues in various domains of neuroinformatics-related research. INCF currently has scientific Programs in the following areas: Digital Brain Atlasing, Multi-Scale Modeling, Ontologies of Neural Structures and Standards for Datasharing.

Establishing an INCF Program is a multi-step process, which starts with a Topical Workshop with leading experts in the subject area. Each Program delivers products and services; and develops standards and guidelines for the particular field. Program-related products and services are developed and/or delivered by the INCF Secretariat, INCF National Nodes, or external partners. Standards and guidelines are developed within the Programs, by experts that are invited to be part of the Program's Oversight Committee, Task Force, and/or Reference Group.

The Oversight Committee consists of about 10-20 prominent experts in the field, who determine the overall scope and organization of the effort, monitor its progress, and establish Task Force(s) for technical projects.

Task Forces are composed of approximately 10 technical experts. Each Task Force is ad hoc for a specific project.

The Reference Group consists of 40-50 representatives from the scientific community with a particular interest in the area covered by the program. They help guide the technical projects to best meet the needs of the scientific community, as well as to help finalize the standards and guidelines generated by the Task Forces and Oversight Committee.

Neuroinformatics often falls between traditional academic departments. The INCF has formed a Training Committee with the aim to coordinate function in neuroinformatics training. The mission of the committee is to:

• collect, evaluate, validate and make available teaching materials
• produce teaching materials
• fund selected short courses
• organize an annual short course