ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

NeuroTrain: A Unified Benchmarking Framework for Spiking Neural Network Training Algorithms

publication · 2026-05-16

NeuroTrain, a newly developed open-source framework, seeks to unify the assessment of training algorithms for spiking neural networks (SNNs). Utilizing the snnTorch library, it features a modular and extendable design that incorporates a representative array of learning rules. A detailed survey accompanies it, offering a thorough classification of SNN training techniques, including surrogate-gradient backpropagation, local and three-factor learning rules, biologically inspired plasticity, ANN-to-SNN conversion methods, and unconventional optimization approaches. Each category is examined based on computational principles, learning signals, and locality characteristics. By providing a standardized interface for comparing various methods, NeuroTrain promotes reproducible research and addresses the existing gap in fine-grained taxonomy within the field, ultimately aiding in benchmarking and advancing SNN research.

Key facts

  • NeuroTrain is an open-source framework based on snnTorch.
  • It implements a representative set of SNN training algorithms.
  • The survey provides a taxonomy of SNN training methods.
  • Categories include surrogate-gradient, local learning, three-factor rules, plasticity, ANN-to-SNN conversion, and non-standard strategies.
  • Each class is analyzed for computational principles, learning signals, and locality.
  • The framework is modular and extendable.
  • Aims to support reproducible research.
  • Addresses the lack of a unified taxonomy in SNN training.

Entities

Institutions

  • arXiv

Sources