Michel Belyk, Ph.D.

My research works to uncover the neural adaptations that make humans able to speak, with a particular focus on the neural control of the voice. I have found it useful to take a comparative approach to study how the human brain, and the behaviours that it enables, differs from what has been observed in other species. Likewise I have a growing interest in how individual differences in neurobiology can drive speech differences, such as stammering.

My research involves a combination of imaging (fMRI, qMRI, vocal tract MRI), meta-analysis, brain stimulation (TMS), secondary data analysis (e.g., large cohort studies), acoustical analysis of recorded audio, and perceptual playback studies. Across all areas I am particularly interested in developing innovative data analysis strategies that open up new lines of inquiry.

As the human voice is the primary sound source for speech, song, and the expression of emotions, my research interests connect with much of the breadth of communicative behaviour. Indicative areas include, singing, vocal imitation, stuttering, speech prosody, accents, vocal attractiveness, cues to deception, ASMR, and misophonia.