Exploring Early Brain Development Through Music, Speech and MEG | Dr. Christina Zhao
Release Date: 09/22/2026
Exploring Early Brain Development Through Music, Speech and MEG | Dr. Christina Zhao
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In this MEGIN Spotlight, we welcome Dr. Christina Zhao, Director of the Lab for Early Auditory Perception (LEAP) within the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS), Washington. Dr. Zhao discusses her research into early learning and brain development, with a focus on how infants’ brains process speech and music and how musical experiences can shape early development. She also shares insights into the use of infant MEG within I-LABS, translating neuroscience research into educational practice, and the future directions of research supported by her new professorship. In this...
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info_outlineIn this MEGIN Spotlight, we welcome Dr. Christina Zhao, Director of the Lab for Early Auditory Perception (LEAP) within the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS), Washington.
Dr. Zhao discusses her research into early learning and brain development, with a focus on how infants’ brains process speech and music and how musical experiences can shape early development.
She also shares insights into the use of infant MEG within I-LABS, translating neuroscience research into educational practice, and the future directions of research supported by her new professorship.
In this episode:
- Introduction to Dr. Christina Zhao and ILABS
- The mission and focus of ILABS and LEAP
- Dr. Zhao’s journey into auditory neuroscience
- Using MEG to study infant brain responses
- Music’s role in shaping infant speech and language
- Translating research into educational and community impact
- The significance of the Paros Endowed Professorship and future research
To learn more:
Read the paper “Infant brain imaging using magnetoencephalography: Challenges, solutions, and best practices:” Human Brain Mapping | Neuroimaging Journal | Wiley Online Library.
Watch the accompanying video featuring how to test infants in the MEG: Infant brain imaging using magnetoencephalography: Challenges, solutions, and best practices
Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS): https://ilabs.uw.edu
The Lab for Early Auditory Perception (LEAP): https://sites.uw.edu/babyleap/
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MEGIN Spotlights content and speakers selected are only for information purposes and MEGIN does not endorse any applications or treatments mentioned. This presentation does not constitute any form of medical opinion or professional advice. Consult your caregiver for medical advice.
TRIUX™ neo is intended to non-invasively record brain activity, and when interpreted by trained physicians, to help localize these active areas. Caution: Federal law (USA) restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.