Projects | Mechanisms of Auditory Perception Lab

Functional Consequences of Childhood Otitis Media

Otitis media is among the most common reasons young children visit the doctor and presents significant challenges to auditory development. A substantial body of research shows that the degraded auditory input caused by otitis media, even after the infection has resolved, can lead to lasting changes in the auditory system. In a series of preliminary studies, we are examining the long-term effects of resolved otitis media on auditory development in children. Our work explores how early auditory disruptions may trigger reorganization within the ascending auditory pathways. By assessing both behavioral and neural responses to sound, we aim to clarify the enduring impact of otitis media on hearing, language development, and cognitive function. Ultimately, our goal is to inform early intervention strategies that reduce the potential long-term effects of otitis media on auditory and learning outcomes in children.

Exploring the Factors Contributing to Speech Perception Challenges

Many people with hearing loss struggle to follow conversations in noisy or echo-filled environments. But surprisingly, even those with normal hearing can find it difficult to understand speech in these everyday situations. This reveals that hearing ability alone doesn’t always predict how well someone can communicate in the real world.

At our lab, we explore why speech perception breaks down in complex listening environments. Our approach blends electrophysiology, behavioral testing, and computational modeling to uncover the neural and cognitive systems that support speech understanding. By connecting these pieces, we aim to develop strategies that improve communication for everyone, especially in the noisy, unpredictable settings of daily life.

Exploring the Variability in Cochlear Implant Outcomes

Cochlear implants (CIs) have revolutionized hearing restoration for individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss, offering access to sound and improved speech perception. However, outcomes vary widely, while some recipients achieve remarkable benefits, others experience more limited gains. Many factors, including age at implantation, duration of deafness, prior auditory experience, device characteristics, and individual differences in cognitive function, can influence this variability. A key contributor is how effectively the brain adapts to and interprets electrically delivered sound. At our lab, we study these differences to better understand the neural and cognitive factors that shape CI outcomes. Our goal is to advance personalized rehabilitation strategies and optimize CI technology to support speech perception, language development, and quality of life. By tailoring interventions to each individual, we aim to help every CI user reach their full communicative potential.