How memory affects decision-making in foraging birds
Official title: Influence of Hippocampus-Like Memory Representations on Decision Making in Foraging Birds
Funded at Basis Research Institute · NIH-11229509 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in birds, like chickadees and sparrows, help them remember where they’ve hidden food and make smart choices while foraging, which could teach us more about how memory works in animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Basis Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,997 |
| NIH project number | 3R00NS131256-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11229509 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with memory impairments, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without memory-related conditions or cognitive impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between hippocampal neuron properties and memory-guided decision-making in birds, particularly focusing on species like chickadees and sparrows. By employing advanced behavioral tracking techniques, the study aims to map the neural mechanisms that underlie these cognitive behaviors during foraging activities. The researchers will utilize theoretical analyses and simulations to understand how memory influences the birds' ability to cache and retrieve food. This work could provide insights into the biological basis of memory and decision-making processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of memory-related disorders and inform strategies for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While this research explores a novel approach in avian models, similar studies in other species have shown promising results in understanding memory and decision-making.
Where this research is happening
-
Basis Research Institute
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mackevicius, Emily Lambert — Basis Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Mackevicius, Emily Lambert
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.