Walter Metzner

We aim at understanding the neuronal circuits and mechanisms that transform sensory information about the environment into motor commands that guide adaptive behavior. Specifically, my current focus is on the neural basis for mammalian vocalization and how it is controlled by auditory feedback. In our work we take advantage of the highly developed vocalization behavior of bats to determine the neural basis for the control of vocalizations in a mammal. Echolocating bats in general adjust multiple parameters of their calls based upon auditory cues contained within preceding echoes. We use a combination of behavioral (both in the field and the laboratory), pharmacological, neurophysiological and anatomical techniques to address these questions.



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