Main Focus
The ability to coordinate the timing of vocalizations is important for clear communication with a vocal partner. For example, spoken conversations require vocal turn-taking in order for speakers to avoid interfering with each other. Little is known about how the brain modulates the timing of vocal responses to sounds heard within an interactive context. My work makes use of electrophysiological and pharmacological methods to identify the neural circuit mechanisms underlying temporal coordination in vocally interacting songbirds.
Curriculum Vitae
Current Position
2021-Present: Scientist,
Vallentin Group: Neural Circuits for Vocal Communication, Max Planck Institute
for Biological Intelligence, i.f., Seewiesen, Germany
Education
2015: Ph.D. in Neuroscience, City University of New York, USA
2007: B.S.
in Cognitive Science, University of Connecticut, USA
Awards and Grants
2021-2024: Principal Investigator, DFG(German Research Foundation) Research Grant
2018: Konishi Neuroethology Research Award, International Society for Neuroethology
2010-2015:
City University of New York Science Scholarship
Professional Experience
2019-2021: Postdoc, Vallentin Group, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Germany
2016-2019: Postdoc, Vallentin Group, Institute of Behavioral Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
2010-2016: Doctoral Student, Researcher, & Lecturer, Tchernichovski Lab, Dept. of Psychology, Hunter College & Biology Dept., The City College of New York, USA
2007-2010: Research Specialist & Lab Manager, Wingfield Lab, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, USA