Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience of Music and Speech Perception

We are recruiting two highly motivated Master 2 students for a 5–6-month internship in the Human and Artificial Perception group at the Institut de l’Audition. Our multidisciplinary team combines neurobiology, psychoacoustics and computational modeling to study how the brain represents and predicts complex sounds such as speech and music—and how these processes are altered in hearing impairment and other clinical populations. Project Themes (choose one) 1. Neurobiology of Music and Speech Perception • In vivo electrophysiology or neuroimaging (EEG/MEG) to probe temporal and spectral encoding • Psychophysics in healthy listeners, linking behavioral performance to neural markers 2. Developing AI Models of Music Perception • Design and train deep‐learning or probabilistic models that predict melodic/harmonic expectations • Compare model outputs with human data (behavioral, EEG) to validate computational hypotheses 3. Sequence Predictions in Hearing Loss & Clinical Populations • Behavioral and neurophysiological assessment of predictive coding in patients with cochlear implants or auditory neuropathy • Data analysis and modeling to identify biomarkers of impaired temporal processing Your Profile • Currently enrolled in Master 2 (Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Bioengineering, Computer Science, Physics) • Strong interest in auditory neuroscience, psychoacoustics or AI modeling • Programming skills (Python, MATLAB or equivalent) and statistical/data‐analysis experience • Excellent communication skills in English; French is a plus • Demonstrated autonomy, curiosity and teamwork What We Offer • A stimulating, interdisciplinary research environment at the cutting edge of auditory science • Hands-on training in neurophysiology, psychophysics and computational methods • Access to in-house recording/stimulation facilities, high-performance computing and a vibrant seminar series • Monthly internship stipend (according to French M2 rates) and assistance with housing/administrative formalities • Networking opportunities within Institut Pasteur and national/international collaborators Location & Duration Institut de l’Audition, Institut Pasteur (Paris 12e - Bastille) 5 to 6 months, starting September 2025 (flexible) How to Apply Please send a single PDF containing: – A brief cover letter stating your preferred project theme and motivation – Curriculum vitae with academic record and coding experience – Contact information for two academic references By e-mail to Dr. Keith Doelling (keith.doelling@pasteur.fr) with subject line “M2 Internship – Human & Artificial Perception.” Deadline for applications: June 15, 2025. Early applications are encouraged.