Laboratory of

Language Neurobiology

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In our lab oratory, we study how the brain functions during various linguistic processes in individuals with both typical and atypical development. We focus on understanding how reading and writing skills develop in children, as well as what may cause difficulties in brain development and how to effectively assist in addressing these issues. Additionally, we try to understand how the brain handles language, regardless of its written form. To this end, we compare orthographic systems that differ in spelling rules (e.g., Polish and English). We also compare visual reading in sighted individuals to tactile reading in blind individuals. We investigate how late speech development affects children's long-term behavior and what changes occur in their brains.

Furthermore, we are interested in the relationship between what we are aware of and what happens in our mind during word processing. We want to understand whether conscious and unconscious word processing takes precedence, especially when it comes to information about ourselves. All of this helps us better understand how our mind works and how we can support the language development of various individuals.

Our Methods

EEG

We conduct electroencephalographic (EEG) studies. We analyze brain function based on event-related potentials (ERP) and brain wave activity (FFT). The laboratory is equipped with an eye tracker (Tobii TX300), designed for conducting specialized research on reading habits among both neurotypical and neurodiverse readers.

MRI

Our research is also conducted using non-invasive neuroimaging methods - functional (fMRI) and structural (sMRI) magnetic resonance imaging. We analyze brain function based on fluctuations in the BOLD signal. Neuroanatomical studies are performed using voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and surface-based morphometry (SBM), as well as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). To non-invasively study neurotransmitter concentrations, we use MEGA-PRESS magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

BEHAVIORAL

Our laboratory mainly consists of psychologists, which is why we use behavioral tests in our research. Each test is conducted by qualified researchers in safe and comfortable conditions. Participants complete the tests on computers or in writing. Importantly, we adapt the conditions and tests to the age of our participants, so children are specially cared for here!