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

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · 2020 · $193,032

## Abstract

Project Summary
The overall objective of this training program is to identify, motivate, and train the next
generation of neuroscientists in Computational Approaches to the Neuroscience of Audition
and Communication (CANAC). This objective maps elegantly onto the 2017-2021 NIDCD Strategic
Plan and its Priority Areas that aim to understand the neural basis of hearing and communication at
different scales of analysis and in real-world listening environments. These Priority Areas require not only
rigorous experimental manipulations and data collection but also coherent computational theory to understand
the data and to make testable predictions for future science. As such, we propose a T32 training program to
develop the next-generation of scientists grounded in the experimental neuroscience of auditory and
communication systems, while also being thoroughly trained and versed in theory and computation. A unique
aspect of this training proposal is its integrative philosophy which leverages a highly collaborative and
cross-disciplinary approach to science fostered by faculty on the Penn campus: students will master
techniques from diverse traditional fields to become independent investigators vested with skills in both
computation and experimental neuroscience. Our program curriculum includes core and elective courses
designed to achieve this breadth of knowledge and is consolidated by suggested research laboratory rotations
that will be taken by interested first- and second-year predoctoral students from associated graduate groups.
Upon successful completion of a preliminary exam at the end of the second year, interested students will apply
formally to our program, based on a written statement of interests and plans, a thesis proposal, grades, and
letters of recommendation. Accepted trainees will receive two years of funding for PhD-thesis work and
individual advising on current training options, funding opportunities, and future career plans. Students will
receive cross-disciplinary training: they will be 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. Additionally, because of the direct translational and clinical importance of audition
and communication, clinical faculty will also serve as members of the trainees' thesis committees. We will
instruct all of our trainees in the responsible conduct of research, and will continue efforts to enhance diversity
of our applicants via targeted recruitment, broad advertising, and dissemination of program outputs. We have
devised a sophisticated evaluation team to keep track of progress and outcomes, and plan a comprehensive
training program for predoctoral trainees, including journal clubs, seminar series, and an annual retreat.
Together, these activities comprise an integrative, directed training program that will develop a
talented and diverse pool of students to become long-term ...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9966947
- **Project number:** 5T32DC016903-03
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- **Principal Investigator:** Vijay Balasubramanian
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $193,032
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-07-01 → 2023-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9966947

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9966947, Cross-disciplinary training in computational approaches to the neuroscience of audition and communication (5T32DC016903-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9966947. Licensed CC0.

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