Dr. Susanne Seltmann

During a conversation, we need to be able to articulate ourselves and listen to a counterpart. Sometimes it is necessary to adjust our vocal output depending on external feedback i.e. we need to talk and listen at the same time. The zebra finch, who serves as model organism for vocal learning and communication, cannot process auditory input while singing actively. Other songbirds, however, have the ability to sing while adjusting their song to other vocalizations. Some are even capable to directly copy the song of their counterpart (‘song matching’). I aim to investigate how their brain is able to perform this complicated task which will help to better understand the neuronal processes necessary for vocal communication.