The goal of my research is to characterize the neural representations that support language processing in typical development and communication disorders such as dyslexia and aphasia, so that these disorders can be better understood, treated, and even prevented.

My dissertation examines implicit, explicit, and predictive perceptual processing in dyslexia. Using behavioral, neuroimaging (EEG and MEG), and machine-learning techniques, I test mechanistic explanations for perceptual strengths and weaknesses that may be related to difficulty developing accurate and fluent reading skills. I am particularly interested in the perception of speech sounds and fine phonetic detail in predictable vs. unpredictable contexts.  

As second important direction in my work involves quantifying the availability of neural representations for speech error detection and correction in aphasia. 

Prior to graduate school, I worked on using cognitive neuroscience to predict dyslexia among kindergarten children.