Ongoing Doctoral Research

The Music Cognition Lab is at the forefront of exploring the intricate connections between music, brain function, and behavior. Our doctoral researchers are engaged in projects that delve into diverse aspects of music cognition and its applications in clinical and non-clinical contexts. These studies investigate how music influences cognition, emotion, and neuroplasticity, with a strong focus on its therapeutic potential for neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Development of Music- and Rhythm-based Cognitive Remediation Program and its Effectiveness in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury | Prathima A R

The study aims at developing a music and rhythm based cognitive remediation program and to explore its effectiveness in improving cognitive and functional outcomes in patients with Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in comparison to a treatment as usual group (TAU). The newly developed intervention comprises of both active and passive music exercises targeting specific cognitive domains such as attention, executive functions and memory. This study is first of its kind in India and has its implications in being able to offer an innovative, multimodal and an engaging rehabilitation option for those with TBI.

Effect of Musical Training on Brain and its Function: Neurocognitive and Neural Difference between Percussionists and Non-percussionists | Topoti Baruah

The aim of the study is to determine the effect of musical training on neurocognition and the structural and functional aspects of the brain. Musicians considered in the study are specifically percussionists from the Indian Music tradition. Percussion instruments include tabla, mridangam, ghatam, khanjira etc. Research on effect of music on brain have time and again demonstrated that activities related to music can have an advantageous effect on neural plasticity and cognitive abilities even in adult life. Acquiring and maintaining musical skills over the musician’s lifetime makes them an exemplary model for understanding the impact of procuring distinct sensorimotor skills and training-induced neuroplasticity.

Other Research Projects

The lab engages in a variety of studies exploring the intersections of music, cognition, and neuroscience. These include investigating the effects of music on attention, memory, and emotion, as well as its therapeutic applications in neurological and psychiatric conditions. Through collaborations and interdisciplinary approaches, our research continues to expand the understanding of music's impact on the brain and behavior.

Development of Hand-Held Immunosensor Device using Bioinspired Graphene-Based Nanocomposites for the Detection of Parkinson’s Disease Biomarkers

Funded by: Indian Institute of Medical Research (ICMR)
Principal Investigator: Dr Phalguni Anand Alladi, Senior Scientific officer (Scientist 'F'), Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Neuro Toxicology
Co-principal Investigator: Dr Shantala Hegde 

Perception and Identification of Ragas of Indian Classical Music: An Exploratory Electrophysiological Study 

Funded by: Department of Science & Technology (DST) - Fast Track Scheme for Young Scientists
Principal Investigator: Dr Shantala Hegde

Electrophysiological Changes and Autonomic Response Variations to Happy and Sad Emotion Induced Via Music

Funded by: Department of Science & Technology (DST) - Cognitive Science Research Initiative
Principal Investigator: Dr Shantala Hegde