Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Directory
Michael Heinz
Assistant Professor
Ph.D. (2000) Massachusetts Institute of Technology
M.S.E. (1994) Johns Hopkins University
Sc.B. (1992) Brown University
Office: Heavilon HallM.S.E. (1994) Johns Hopkins University
Sc.B. (1992) Brown University
Email: mheinz@purdue.edu
Specialization:
Neural coding in normal and impaired auditory systems
Neural mechanisms for enhanced speech coding
Models of auditory signal processing and perception
psychoacoustics
Auditory prostheses
Courses:
SLHS 65800, SLHS 50400, SLHS 44400
The long-term goals of my research program are to understand the neural bases for robust speech perception by studying the effects of sensorineural hearing loss on neural coding, and to transfer this knowledge to technologies that improve the lives of people with hearing loss. My research involves the coordinated use of neurophysiology, psychoacoustics, and computational modeling. This multi-disciplinary approach provides a powerful framework to extend our understanding of the effects of different types of hearing loss on neural and perceptual responses to sound. This knowledge will be extremely valuable for developing diagnostic tests, for evaluating the limitations of current hearing aids, and for suggesting novel strategies for hearing aids and cochlear implants. In addition, a better understanding of the salient features of speech and how the normal auditory system processes these features with ease will have implications for auditory signal processing technologies, such as automatic speech recognition, speech compression, and sound-source segregation.