People

Kelsey Mankel, Ph.D.
Curriculum Vita

Dr. Kelsey Mankel leads the Cognitive Neuroscience of Hearing Lab (CNHL) at the University of Memphis. Her research examines how the brain processes complex auditory information, like speech and music, using neuroimaging tools such as EEG and eye-tracking. She studies how experiences like music training, learning, and noise exposure as well as cognitive abilities affect auditory perception and neuroplasticity. Outside of work, Dr. Mankel relaxes through activities such as gardening, playing music, dancing, listening to audiobooks, and swimming.

Samar Babaee

Samar is a Ph.D. student with a clinical background in audiology, specializing in vestibular assessment and electrophysiology. Her research focuses on binaural hearing, with particular interest in understanding the neural mechanisms underlying binaural processing and the neuroplastic changes that occur through training. In her free time, she enjoys listening to audiobooks, learning about cosmology, watching movies, and historical documentaries.

Conner Corbett

Conner is an incoming PhD student. He is interested in the neuroscience foundations of cognition and auditory perception. He has a special interest in how traumatic brain injury can lead to cognition and perception issues. In his free time, he enjoys training for marathons, exploring the outdoors, and puzzles.

Lisa Dawood (AuD-PhD)

Lisa is currently running statistical analysis on previous studies conducted in the lab. She is interested in working as a research audiologist in the future. In her free time, she likes to try new coffee shops. 

Peyton Capps-Guy

Peyton is beginning her capstone research study in the CNHL. She is interested in electrophysiology, listening effort, and adult hearing aids. In her free time, she loves spending time with her husband, dog, and cat.

Hailey Walker

Hailey is beginning her capstone research study in the CNHL. She is interested in electrophysiology and adult hearing aids. In her free time, she enjoys reading fiction, crocheting blankets, and spending time with her friends and family.

Lauren Dandridge

Lauren is beginning her capstone research study in the CNHL. She is interested in electrophysiology, adult audiology, and the neural processing of speech in noise. In her free time, she enjoys writing piano music and spending time with her cat, Audi, as well as with friends and family.