# CRCNS: Building and testing computational models of the neural basis of natural communication

> **NIH NIH R01** · PRINCETON UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $409,280

## Abstract

Communication and language processing disorders can significantly impact the lives of millions of people. 
The proposed Conversations project will combine an unprecedented ECoG dataset and a cutting-edge MLbased encoding framework to test competing models for neural mechanisms supporting natural language 
processing and face-to-face communication in natural contexts. Uncovering the neural mechanisms behind 
everyday communication can give voice to people with speech and hearing impairments, shed light on 
communication disorders, and enhance doctor-patient communication. In Aim 1, we will create the "24/7 
Conversations" dataset of 750 hrs of continuous electrocorticography (ECoG) data from epilepsy patients 
engaging in free daily life conversations. This dataset will be the largest collection of real-life conversations 
and intracranial neural activity assembled. Aim 2 involves developing an ML-based encoding framework to 
test the ability of various language models to model our "24/7 Conversations" dataset. ML-based encoding 
framework will allow us to explore brain-to-brain communication dynamics during face-to-face 
conversations. Finally, Aim 3 will leverage the ML-based encoding framework to construct novel 
computational models that simulate the neural basis of natural language processing, focusing on how the 
brain predicts and integrates spoken language during spontaneous real-life conversations. Through these 
efforts, we aim to map the intricate neural activities associated with language, providing insights into normal 
and disordered communication.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11083194
- **Project number:** 1R01DC022534-01
- **Recipient organization:** PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Uri Hasson
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $409,280
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-01 → 2029-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11083194

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11083194, CRCNS: Building and testing computational models of the neural basis of natural communication (1R01DC022534-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11083194. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NIH grants dataset](/datasets/nih-grants) · CC0 1.0*