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The Brain Conference: Where human language, animal models, and AI meet to uncover how brains enable communication
This interdisciplinary conference brings together leading researchers exploring the neural and behavioral foundations of communication across species. Featured speakers studying human language will present their work, along with experts who focus on a range of diverse animal models, and those leveraging AI, jointly exploring the mechanisms of vocal learning, perception, and production.
The program bridges animal and human communication through sessions on vocal signaling, speech and language processing, infant language acquisition, and multimodal communication. Cutting-edge approaches in neural recording, imaging, and computational modeling will showcase the latest advances for studying communication systems at multiple scales, from single neurons to population dynamics and beyond.
Additional sessions will examine auditory processing, temporal coordination, rhythm perception, and sensorimotor integration, drawing on perspectives from neuroscience, ethology, linguistics, bioacoustics, and cognitive science. This gathering promises productive cross-talk between disciplines, comparing mechanisms underlying communication across the animal kingdom to identify both conserved principles and species-specific adaptations. The conference aims to advance our understanding of how brains generate, perceive, and process communicative signals in both natural and experimental contexts.
Why Attend
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Integrative by design: Neural Foundations of Communication: Integrative Approaches Across Species unites neuroscience, ethology, linguistics, bioacoustics, cognitive science, and AI/computational modelling around shared questions in communication.
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Cross-species insight: compare animal communication and human language research to identify conserved principles and species-specific adaptations.
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From signals to mechanisms: dedicated focus on vocal learning, perception, and production, linking behavioural phenomena to neural and computational explanations.
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Core themes across development and modality: sessions on vocal signaling, speech and language processing, infant language acquisition, and multimodal communication.
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Cutting-edge methods, multiple scales: advances in neural recording, imaging, and computational modelling spanning single neurons to population dynamics and beyond.
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Timing, rhythm, and sensorimotor integration: sessions covering auditory processing, temporal coordination, rhythm perception, and sensorimotor integration as building blocks of natural communication.
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Intimate format (≤150 participants): designed for real conversation—easier access to speakers, richer discussion, and stronger networking.
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Support available: stipend support offered to help facilitate attendance (see eligibility and application details).