Current research areas:
Individual differences in dyslexia:
The PINE study
The PupIlommetry and NorEpinephrine study uses non-invasive methods to evaluate a potential neural mechanism for dyslexia - abnormal signaling in norepinephrine, which is a chemical messenger in the brain. This signal is important for learning and memory as well as detecting surprising and unexpected events. We are recruiting children 7-12 years old who are typical readers, with dyslexia, and those with dyslexia and ADHD. Interested? Send us an email at gapplab (at) phhp.ufl (dot) edu
The Grammy Study
With grant funding from the GRAMMY Museum, this study investigates the impact of extensive (9+ years) versus minimal (<2 years) musical training on the brain’s ability to set and evaluate expectations in young adults with and without dyslexia. The study utilizes high-density EEG to answer these questions.
Non-invasive auricular vagus nerve stimulation for improving reading, language, and more!
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is an exciting technology that can be used to modulate the central nervous system via the release of key neurotransmitters associated with learning and memory. Our lab is on the forefront of exploring the benefits of taVNS in a variety of communication impairments, as well as understanding the individual variables that may influence efficacy. We have several funded projects in this space.
Our current studies in this space are focused on:
1) speech perception in veterans with TBI (includes neural imaging with EEG)
2) age-related hearing loss (includes neural imaging with MR spectroscopy)
3) apraxia of speech (in partnership with Brooks Rehabilitation)
4) understanding environmental and biological barriers to efficacy
5) letter sound learning in dyslexia (includes neural imaging with fMRI)
