Jonathan Z. Simon

Jonathan Z. Simon is a Professor at the University of Maryland with joint appointments in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Institute for Systems Research within the A. James Clark School of Engineering. His research focuses on auditory neural computations, particularly how the brain processes speech and sound. He holds a B.A. from Princeton University (1985) and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara (1990).

Key research areas include computational neuroscience, neural signal processing, and the temporal dynamics of auditory processing. Dr. Simon directs the Computational Auditory Neural Systems Laboratory, which explores brain mechanisms underlying speech perception, attention, and cognitive recovery post-stroke. His work combines neuroimaging (MEG/EEG), signal processing, and computational models to study neural representations of speech across acoustic to semantic levels.

Recent grants include NIH-funded studies on auditory-cognitive training and stroke recovery. Collaborative projects involve KU Leuven and interdisciplinary teams addressing neuroplasticity and functional connectivity. Over 20 students have graduated under his mentorship, many contributing to auditory neuroscience and clinical applications.