Understanding how the brain controls vocal communication in songbirds
Official title: Neural population dynamics underlying flexibility in natural communication behaviors
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11074379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how songbirds use their brains to change their singing based on different situations, helping us learn more about how animals and humans communicate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,032 |
| NIH project number | 1F99NS141305-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with communication disorders or those interested in the neuroscience of behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by communication disorders or who do not have an interest in the underlying neural mechanisms of communication may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that enable songbirds to communicate flexibly through their vocalizations. By studying how different contexts, such as acoustic cues and internal motivations, influence brain activity, the research aims to uncover the complex interactions between auditory perception and motor planning. The approach involves observing neural population dynamics in songbirds as they engage in vocal communication, providing insights into how the brain coordinates these behaviors. This work could enhance our understanding of communication in both animals and humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding communication disorders and improving therapies for speech-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding neural dynamics in simpler communication models, but this approach in songbirds is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gorman, Julia C — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Gorman, Julia C
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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.