Mechanisms, Perception, and Restoration in the Auditory System

The 2026 Auditory System GRC will focus on topics encompassed by mechanisms, perception, and functional restoration in the auditory system. The auditory system is a key component of communication, social interactions, situational awareness, and music appreciation, yet hearing loss and hearing disorders affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Advances in understanding and treating hearing loss require integrating insights and promoting cross-disciplinary collaborations across all levels of study that comprise auditory research. To support this goal, the 2026 conference will highlight the latest discoveries and innovative ideas drawn from across the full breadth of auditory research, including: the fundamental mechanisms that govern auditory system function from the ear to the highest brain levels, how sounds are perceived and how they influence behavior, how function of the auditory system is altered by hearing loss and hearing disorders, and novel approaches for restoring hearing function.

The translational implications of auditory research will be emphasized throughout the conference. Hearing health advocate and author, Shari Eberts, will lead a special session to discuss the challenges faced by the hearing loss community, how research in the auditory field can help, and how auditory researchers can advocate for better hearing health. To promote cross-pollination of ideas and maximize engagement, the conference program is designed around thematic sessions that alternate across subfields and feature results from a variety of model systems and experimental approaches. With its congenial atmosphere and ample opportunities for discussion, the Auditory System GRC provides an outstanding opportunity for auditory scientists to engage with colleagues old and new, generate new ideas, and build impactful collaborations.

The Auditory System GRC is preceded by a smaller, two day (July 18-19) Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) designed for students and postdocs engaged in auditory research. GRS attendees are strongly encouraged to attend the subsequent GRC. Talks will be selected from submitted abstracts and anchored by a keynote address by an invited mentor participant. There is ample time for discussion following each talk, or while hiking in the afternoon, or during poster-and-refreshment sessions each evening.