On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Alaleh successfully defended her PhD thesis entitled "Neural Correlates of Resting-State Networks and Extinction Learning in Pigeons: fMRI Studies".

In her dissertation, Alaleh used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in awake pigeons to investigate the organisation of brain networks and the neural mechanisms underlying extinction learning. Her research provided the first whole-brain mapping of resting-state networks in awake pigeons using independent component analysis, revealing distinct functional networks involved in visual and auditory processing. In addition, she investigated brain activity during extinction learning and highlighted important methodological challenges in interpreting fMRI activation patterns. Her work provides valuable insights into the functional organisation of the avian brain and important methodological contributions for future neuroimaging research.

Congratulations, Alaleh! We are all proud of you!!!