A series of early morning seminars is providing education for audiology students on cutting-edge topics while offering continuing education for faculty and clinical instructors. A joint initiative between Pitt and UPMC, each seminar features both a clinician and researcher, providing insights into how research is being applied in real-world clinical settings.
Previously held in person, these seminars shifted to a virtual format during the pandemic. “We’ve stayed virtual because our alumni and colleagues appreciate the accessibility,” said Catherine V. Palmer, PhD, Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology, Director of UPMC Audiology, and Chair of the Department of Communication Science and Disorders.
Each year, the seminar series follows a new theme. This year’s theme, “From Research to Reality,” emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge research with clinical practice. “We’re really excited about this year’s theme, given the strength of our basic research team and our outstanding practicing audiologists,” Dr. Palmer said.
The series begins on October 4 with Aravind Parthasarathy, PhD and Virginia Milne, AuD, discussing clinical diagnostics for “hidden” hearing deficits and how emerging research is shaping diagnostic practices.
The November 8th seminar featuring Hari Bharadwaj, PhD and Lori Zitelli, AuD, will explore precision diagnostics for auditory issues, with a focus on patient-specific factors that influence treatment success.
On December 13, Melissa McGovern, PhD, and Jillian Chapman, AuD, will present on innovations in cochlear implant technology and the genetic research driving hearing restoration.
Chris Cunningham, PhD, and Emma Alscher, AuD, will explore the neural and sensory biology of the auditory system on February 7, showing how recent research can inform clinical treatments for hearing loss.
The final seminar, scheduled for March 21, will focus on audiology education. Dr. Palmer, Mark DeRuiter, PhD, Dr. Bharadwaj, Dr. Parthasarathy, Dr. Zitelli, and Dr. Alscher will participate in a panel discussion titled “Future Proofing AuD Education,” exploring how audiology education is evolving to meet the needs of future practitioners.
All lectures will be hosted via Zoom from 7-8 am. To join, click here.