Speech processing and reading are essential unique human abilities underpinning social, educational, and professional advancement. However early biomarkers of speech processing deficits that have been documented in reading disabilities such as Developmental Dyslexia (DD) have yet to be identified. Here, we will explore whether the cortical tracking of speech (CTS) - the temporal alignment between fluctuations in the speech signal and fluctuations in electrical brain activity – can predict later reading language and reading development from infancy stages. Cutting edge neuroimaging tools, carefully designed tasks, and longitudinal designs will be used to record CTS. Specifically, we will investigate whether CTS in infancy can help detect early speech and reading deficits predictors and early preschool years.
This project represents a radically new scientific approach that will break new ground by investigating CTS and will allow us to (1) establish causal relationships between CTS and speech processing and reading skills, (2) use this novel approach to detect, diagnose and remediate DD.
Application deadline: 31 October 2024