[Semester Project/Master Project]

Background

MRI spectroscopy allows for quantification of neurotransmitter levels in predefined voxels or regions of interest in the brain. Little is known about the role of neurotransmitters in auditory processes in the brain and their relation to functional networks. This research avenue may thus generate useful insights into basic mechanisms of auditory processing but also inform clinical practice in hearing disorders (hearing loss, tinnitus, hyperacusis, presbycusis, misophonia etc.).

Project Description

An existing data set with MRI spectroscopy, resting state fMRI, and rich health-related audiological data will be provided for analysis. The focus is set on implementing current state-of-the-art resting state network analyses, including in-house solutions, and correlate resulting networks with neurotransmitter levels as well as behavior.

Requirements

Applicants are required to be familiar with Matlab and/or Python, MRI and signal processing, and statistics.

For additional information and/or application, please contact Patrick Neff (patrick.neff@epfl.ch).

Reference:

Isler, B. et al. Lower glutamate and GABA levels in auditory cortex of tinnitus patients: a 2D-JPRESS MR spectroscopy study. Scientific Reports, 12, 4068 (2022).