# Cross-disciplinary training in computational approaches to the neuroscience of audition and communication

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · 2024 · $196,304

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
The overall objective of this training program is to identify, motivate, and train the next
generation of neuroscientists and neuroengineers in Computational Approaches to the
Neuroscience of Audition and Communication (CANAC). This objective maps elegantly onto the
2023-2027 NIDCD Strategic Plan and its Theme Areas. In particular, this training program acts
at the interface between (a) Theme 1's Goals #1 and #2, which identify and characterize different
cell populations in both peripheral and central regions and the neural circuits involved in sensory
processing and (b) Theme 2's Goal #3 to develop in silico (computer) models to enable insights
into normal and disordered function. These Theme Areas require not only rigorous experimental
manipulations but also sophisticated computational theory to understand the generated data and
to make testable predictions for future science. As such, we propose to continue our T32 training
program in order to train the next generation of scientists, who are grounded in the experimental
neuroscience of auditory and communication systems and versed in theory and computation. A
unique aspect of our training proposal is its integrative philosophy, which leverages a highly
collaborative and cross-disciplinary approach to auditory and communication science fostered
by faculty on the Penn campus: predoctoral students will master techniques from diverse
traditional fields to become independent investigators vested with skills in both experimental
and computational neuroscience. Our program curriculum includes core and elective courses
designed to achieve this breadth of knowledge. Fundamental to the goals of our program, all
trainees receive cross-disciplinary training: each trainee will be formally co-mentored by two
faculty members, one whose expertise is computational and another whose expertise is in the
experimental neuroscience of auditory and communication systems. We have devised a
sophisticated evaluation team to keep track of progress and outcomes, and plan a comprehensive
training program, including coursework, a reading group, journal clubs, seminar series, and an
annual retreat. We will continue our efforts to enhance our applicant diversity via targeted
recruitment, broad advertising, and dissemination of program outputs. Accepted trainees will
receive two years of funding. We will instruct all trainees in the responsible conduct of research.
Together, these activities comprise an integrative, cross-disciplinary training program that will
develop a talented and diverse pool of trainees to become long-term leaders in the field of auditory
and communication neuroscience.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10848851
- **Project number:** 2T32DC016903-06
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- **Principal Investigator:** Vijay Balasubramanian
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $196,304
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2018-07-01 → 2029-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10848851

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10848851, Cross-disciplinary training in computational approaches to the neuroscience of audition and communication (2T32DC016903-06). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10848851. Licensed CC0.

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