2026 HHF RARA Grantees

2026 Hearing Health Foundation R.A.R.A. Research Grantees

The Royal Arch Research Assistance program continues its longstanding commitment to advancing research into Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD). Through partnership with the Hearing Health Foundation, these grants support promising investigators whose work seeks to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for individuals affected by auditory disorders.
First Year Research Grants

Melissa Papesh, Au.D., Ph.D.

Portland VA Research Foundation

Research Topic

Central auditory processing disorder and insomnia.

Long-Term Goal

To examine possible associations between APD and chronic insomnia by comparing peripheral and central auditory system function in individuals with and without insomnia, while evaluating the potential role of cognitive behavioral therapy.

Marina Silveira, Ph.D.

University of Texas at San Antonio

Research Topic

Age-related changes in neuromodulatory signaling in the auditory midbrain.

Long-Term Goal

To determine how neuromodulatory inputs alter neural networks within the central auditory pathway, providing a foundation for therapies designed to improve hearing outcomes.

Published Research

Distribution of Metabotropic Serotonin Receptors in GABAergic and Glutamatergic Neurons in the Auditory Midbrain.
Journal of Comparative Neurology (2026).

Second Year Continuing Grants

Ben-Zheng Li, Ph.D.

University of Colorado

Continuing funding from the 2025 R.A.R.A. Grant Program.

Anahita Mehta, Ph.D.

University of Michigan

Continuing funding from the 2025 R.A.R.A. Grant Program.

About R.A.R.A.

Since 1974, the Royal Arch Research Assistance program has funded groundbreaking research into Central Auditory Processing Disorder through its partnership with the Hearing Health Foundation, helping improve the lives of individuals affected by auditory disorders around the world.
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