Objective
The human brain constantly predicts input. In language comprehension, such predictions are shaped by contextual uncertainty: listeners rely on context when input is unreliable. Yet, it remains unclear how the brain adapts predictive strategies when semantic context is uncertain. This project investigates whether language comprehension under uncertainty follows the principle of precision-weighted prediction errors, a hallmark of predictive coding, whereby neural prediction errors are dampened in uncertain contexts. To test this, I will use advanced MEG/EEG neuroimaging and computational modeling across two studies that complement the causal power of a controlled experiment with the ecological validity of naturalistic comprehension. Study 1 employs a semantic volatility paradigm to test whether neural signals of prediction errors are dynamically modulated by contextual stability. Study 2 examines naturalistic story comprehension, using entropy estimates from a large language model to determine whether word-by-word prediction error signals are scaled by contextual uncertainty. Together, these studies will identify the neural markers of precision-weighted semantic prediction errors and establish whether predictive gain modulation under uncertainty shapes language processing. Moreover, findings will disentangle the role of two key types of uncertainty – volatility and entropy – reflecting distinct computational challenges. The project advances predictive coding theory by testing its domain-generality, bridges cognitive neuroscience, psycholinguistics, and artificial intelligence, and advances research on language processing. By clarifying how predictive mechanisms adapt to uncertainty in language, the project strengthens models of human communication and may provide a conceptual basis for future diagnostic and technological applications.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences computer and information sciences artificial intelligence
- natural sciences biological sciences neurobiology cognitive neuroscience
- social sciences psychology psycholinguistics
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
6525 XZ Nijmegen
Netherlands
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.