Brain, Ear, and Aging Research
(B.E.A.R.) Lab
Lab Updates
BEAR Lab Receives Montana INBRE Grant to Explore Auditory–Vestibular Biomarkers of Concussion
We are pleased to share that the BEAR Lab has been awarded a Montana INBRE Pilot Research Grant (2026–2027) for our project titled “Objective Signatures of Auditory–Vestibular Central Over-Compensation in Concussion” . This study, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Brian Loyd at the Neural Injury Center at the University of Montana, will investigate whether concussions produce subtle but measurable changes in auditory and vestibular neural function that may persist even after individuals are cleared to return to play. Using a multimodal battery of objective electrophysiological and vestibular assessments, we will examine central compensation, inhibitory control, and residual neural deficits across acute and recovery stages of concussion.
Formal Inauguration of B.E.A.R Lab (Nov 2025)
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Celebrating the inauguration of the Brain, Ear, and Aging Research (BEAR) Lab at the University of Montana — marking the beginning of innovative research on hearing, brain, and aging.
B.E.A.R. Lab Receives INBRE Pilot Planning Grant (2025)
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We're excited to share that Dr. Anoop Basavanahalli Jagadeesh has been awarded a Montana INBRE 2025–2026 Pilot Planning Grant for his research proposal titled “Exploring Serotonergic Mechanisms and Psychosocial Well-being in the Aging Auditory System: An ERP-Based Study.” This award supports the lab’s growing efforts to understand how age-related changes in serotonin function may shape both auditory processing and psychosocial health. As part of this grant, the BEAR Lab will soon be welcoming two undergraduate research assistants who will be trained across behavioral, audiological, and neurophysiological methods including EEG/ERP, speech-in-noise testing, and cognitive assessments. This opportunity reflects our ongoing commitment to mentoring the next generation of auditory and cognitive neuroscience researchers.
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Stay tuned as we build toward an integrated understanding of how the aging brain hears, feels, and connects!!