Audiological Rehabilitation Laboratory

Directed by David J. Wark, Ph.D., the research activities in the Audiological Rehabilitation Laboratory are focused primarily on the identification and remediation of the communication difficulties experienced by individuals with hearing impairment. Of particular interest is the study of those psychosocial variables which may impact successful communication.

Auditory Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory

The ACNL directed by Gavin M. Bidelman, Ph.D. uses a coordinated blend of techniques including evoked potentials, computational modeling, and psychoacoustics to decipher the neural basis of complex auditory perception. Current projects are focused on understanding the neurocomputations involved in generating basic psychoacoustic phenomena and during music and speech listening. Complementary work examines the neuroplasticity induced by listening experience and training (e.g. music lessons, bilingualism) and how these influences positively affect listening skills.

Auditory Electrophysiology Laboratory

Directed by Herbert Jay Gould, Ph.D., this laboratory conducts studies concerning the integrity of the auditory system at brainstem, mid brain and cortical levels. Studies are designed to distinguish patterns of electrical activity associated with speech perception in both normal and communication disordered children and adults.

Hearing Aid Research Laboratory

Directed by Robyn M. Cox, Ph.D., this laboratory conducts research concerning the development and evaluation of diagnostic and remediation procedures to overcome disablements associated with hearing loss. Issues studied include the improvement of hearing aid fitting protocols, measurement of the help provided by hearing aids, and the development of clinical tools for facilitating rehabilitation.

Hearing Science Laboratory

Directed by Shaum Bhagat, Ph.D., this laboratory conducts research on cochlear physiology with measurements of otoacoustic emissions in typical and impaired human listeners. Topics investigated include cochlear amplifier characteristics, suppression of otoacoustic emissions, DP place-wave mapping, and binaural interactions.

Speech Perception Assessment Laboratory

Directed by Lisa Lucks Mendel, Ph.D., the focus of the research conducted in the Speech Perception Assessment Laboratory is the accurate assessment of speech perception by individuals with normal hearing and individuals with hearing impairment. The tools and procedures used to assess speech perception are evaluated for their validity and reliability in various listening situations.