Using AI to understand social and environmental influences on wild primate behavior.

Building an “AI Forest” to identify the social and environmental factors underlying complex behavioral traits in wild primates.

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11035427

This study looks at how different social and environmental challenges impact the behavior of wild white-faced capuchin monkeys in Costa Rica, using advanced technology to better understand their unique personalities and interactions over the past seven years.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035427 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how social and environmental factors affect the behavior of wild white-faced capuchin monkeys in Costa Rica. By leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence, the project aims to analyze individual differences in behavior that arise from various challenges these monkeys face in their natural habitat. The study will utilize a rich database collected over seven years, focusing on how these factors influence their development and interactions. The goal is to create an 'AI Forest' that enhances our understanding of primate behavior in a natural setting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in animal behavior, conservation, or those studying the effects of environmental factors on wildlife.

Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in animal behavior or conservation efforts may not find this research beneficial.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into the behavioral adaptations of primates, which may inform conservation efforts and improve animal welfare.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized similar AI approaches to study animal behavior, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.