Understanding how people hear sounds and improving hearing devices
Official title: Computational Models of Normal and Impaired Hearing
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11112540 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people with normal hearing understand sounds and how that changes for those with hearing problems, with the hope of using this information to improve hearing aids and treatments for better listening experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | June 11, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $440,691 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021464-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112540 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with hearing impairments, cochlear implants, or auditory neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal hearing may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how humans with normal hearing process sounds and how these abilities are affected in individuals with hearing impairments or auditory disorders. By using advanced machine learning techniques, the project aims to create computational models that mimic human sound recognition and localization. These models will be tested against real-world auditory tasks to better understand the connection between hearing mechanisms and auditory behavior. The ultimate goal is to enhance the design of hearing aids and therapeutic interventions for those with hearing difficulties.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective hearing devices and therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using machine learning to enhance auditory processing models, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdermott, Josh H — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Mcdermott, Josh H
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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.