First, to pave the way toward causal therapies, we will unravel the relationship between molecular patterns of hearing loss and clinical auditory profiles across the life course. Second, to significantly enhance the performance of hearing devices, we will harness the power of generative AI to develop novel sound processing algorithms and implement protective and neuromodulatory interventions as pioneering treatment options. Third, to uncover the multifactorial patterns of hearing disorders, we will introduce a novel combination of knowledge- and data-driven approaches and pioneer the establishment of an Open Data Space for Audiology. This pivotal approach will enable precise disease characterization, prediction of progression and highly tailored treatments making audiology a model for data harmonization and integration. Fourth, to prevent adverse effects on cognition and brain health, we will use our unique expertise in ear-level sensing to transform hearing devices into comprehensive hearing health systems that monitor vital signals and provide real-time feedback for early intervention. Fifth, to objectively and validly assess speech understanding, social interaction, and brain health, which constitute  blind spots in current-day hearing care, we will translate our experimental approaches into real-world scenarios.

With this ambitious research agenda, we will initiate a new era in hearing health research, leveraging the long-term alliance of three universities and partnerships with all leading hearing device manufacturers. Our ecosystem attracts and advances early career researchers at the interface between science, industry, and society with a focus on internationalization, inclusiveness, and early independence. Hearing4all.connects will serve as a global hub of excellence in hearing research and a catalyst for data, hardware, and software sharing in audiology, facilitating the global use of innovations. As a key connector, we envision an international meta-cluster of excellence to combat the global challenge of hearing loss.

Involved Institutions:

• Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology (IDMT)
• Jade University of Applied Sciences
• Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH)
• Oldenburg Auditory Centre (gGmbH)