Siji was selected as a CMBC undergraduate fellow for the 2023-2024 academic year.

“Our interdisciplinary research fellowship provides undergraduate researchers with intellectual and professional development opportunities through participation in the vibrant, interdisciplinary intellectual community of the Center.”

Oluwasijibomi (Siji) Osunkoya, a senior double majoring in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology and Music Composition on the Pre-Medical track, is the latest recipient of the Center for Mind, Brain, and Culture (CMBC) Undergraduate Fellowship for the 2023-2024 academic year. Studying composition under Dr. Katherine Young and viola under Professor Yinzi Kong, he is involved with multiple ensembles on campus including the Emory University Symphony Orchestra and chamber ensembles.

Siji currently works in the Hackney Lab at the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where he studies the neuroprotective effects of tango music and dance in Parkinson’s Disease patients. His research in the upcoming year aims to explore the compositional aspects behind music-evoked emotions, integrating his understanding of neuroscience with the creative expressiveness of composition. His work will delve into how neural correlates of emotion are influenced by musical compositions and, in turn, how these compositions might be informed by the complexities of the human brain. As part of his fellowship, Siji will actively engage in interdisciplinary research discussions, collaborate with visiting scholars, and lead informal cohort meetings, while also having the opportunity to access funding for interdisciplinary research and conference participation.

By bridging music and neuroscience, Siji’s work will embody the CMBC’s commitment to fostering dialogue and scholarship across disciplines. His journey as a CMBC Undergraduate Fellow will aid in expanding the university’s understanding of mind, brain, and culture.”