Understanding how the brain processes natural communication

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

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-11083194

This study looks at how our brains work when we talk and listen to each other by examining brain activity from epilepsy patients during everyday conversations, with the goal of helping people with communication difficulties.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11083194 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms that support natural language processing and face-to-face communication by analyzing a large dataset of brain activity from epilepsy patients during everyday conversations. The project will create a unique dataset of continuous electrocorticography (ECoG) data, which captures real-life interactions, and will develop machine learning models to decode this data. By exploring how the brain predicts and integrates spoken language, the research aims to enhance our understanding of communication disorders and improve communication strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with communication and language processing disorders, such as those with autism spectrum disorder or aphasia.

Not a fit: Patients with communication disorders not related to neural processing, such as purely mechanical speech issues, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights and tools to help individuals with speech and communication disorders express themselves more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using machine learning to decode neural activity related to communication, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.