Director

Dr. Anoop Basavanahalli Jagadeesh

Assistant Professor

Dr. Anoop Basavanahalli Jagadeesh is the Director of the B.E.A.R. Lab and an Assistant Professor in the School of Speech, Language, Hearing, and Occupational Sciences at the University of Montana. His research focuses on the neural and physiological mechanisms of speech perception, particularly in challenging listening environments. He investigates age-related differences in auditory and cognitive processing, with a growing emphasis on the psycho-social impact of auditory aging. Using tools like multichannel EEG/ERP and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), his work aims to advance our understanding of how hearing and cognition interact across the lifespan.

Undergraduate Student Assisstants

Mia Parkes

My name is Mia Parkes, and I am an undergraduate research assistant in the BEAR Lab. I am excited to explore the connections between hearing health and its role in shaping effective care as a future speech-language pathologist. Specifically, I am interested in exploring central auditory processing disorder, focusing on school professionals’ awareness and perceptions, and how these factors influence students’ educational success. Outside of academics, I enjoy trail running, cooking, and finding reasons to laugh every day.

Taci Watkins

I am a senior at The University of Montana this year studying my undergrad in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. In the BEAR Lab, I am interested in exploring if there is a right ear advantage that influences working memory performances. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my master's degree and become a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. Outside of academics, I love spending time outdoors hiking, fishing, and camping.

Jadan Garner

I am a senior here at UM studying Communicative Sciences and Disorders. After graduating this December, I plan to stay in Missoula and work as a rehabilitation technician at Community Medical Center, then attend graduate school the following fall! In the BEAR Lab, I am interested in learning more about how cognitive functioning may be impacted by hearing loss as people age. Outside of school, I enjoy snuggling with my cats or getting outside for a run or hike!

Lillian Stewart

I am a sophomore at UM studying Communicative Sciences and Disorders. In the future I hope to go to graduate school and have a career working with the elderly population. In the BEAR Lab I hope to learn more about hearing loss in older adults and how that can impact their wellbeing. Outside of school I enjoy skiing and hiking!