Dr. Saloni Krishnan, Lab Director
I am a lecturer at Royal Holloway, University of London (this position is similar to an assistant professor in the US). I lead the N-CoDe Lab. My research focuses on how language is represented in the brain, and how organisation this might differ in those with developmental speech and language disorders, like DLD or stuttering.
I initially qualified as a speech and language therapist in India, and practised as a clinician in both India and Dubai. I completed my PhD at the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London (with Fred Dick and Annette Karmiloff-Smith). After my PhD, I held postdoctoral positions at UCL (with Sophie Scott) and Oxford (with Dorothy Bishop and Kate Watkins). While at the University of Oxford, I was a Junior Research Fellow at Corpus Christi College and a stipendiary lecturer at Lady Margaret Hall.
Outside of work, I’m currently watching language development in the wild, seeing my young daughter grow up. Presently, she’s making up a few nonwords of her own! I also love cocktails, travelling (although this is now tempered by environmental concerns and of course, COVID-19!), and making and eating cake. My guilty pleasure is reading – I can’t put a book down once I start it, even if it’s terrible!
PhD Students
Amrita Bains
My current research interests are understanding reading development across different ages and what factors impact reading and language learning. In October 2020, I will begin my PhD in the N-CoDe lab investigating and enhancing motivation for reading, working in collaboration with the Reading Agency. I am funded via an ESRC studentships. I will use decision-making paradigms to examine underlying neural bases of reward and motivation when reading. Outside of work I enjoy a good book, a good film, a wonder around a city finishing with a cup of tea or a cocktail.
Undergraduate Research Assistants
Bethany Garvin
I am currently studying Psychology at Royal Holloway University which I am loving! I have just finished my second year and am looking forward to beginning my final year on the undergraduate course in September. I am particularly interested in developmental research surrounding early infant communication through to language acquisition. I am so excited to be working in the N-CoDe lab to be studying the influence of curiosity on word learning, and if this influence differs in those with reading disorders. This work is funded via a departmental Outstanding Student Research Bursary.
Outside of studying, I love reading and baking too! In particular, I love experimenting with my baking attempting to come up with vegan alternatives to my favourite cakes and treats!
Annaliese Barber
I’m currently studying Psychology in my second year at Royal Holloway University, my main interests lie within Neuroscience and how the brain develops and adapts at a neurological level. The unique ways in which communication is adapted and individuals tailor their use of language fascinates me, and I am interested in developmental research regarding differences in language acquisition and engagement. Outside of studying I enjoy art and illustration, and I’m never far away from my sketchbook and a cup of tea.
Tau Nell
As a second year Psychology BSc student, I have a wide range of interests in the field. These include social, abnormal, and cognitive psychology. I am, however, particularly fascinated by language: its acquisition, use as a social and pragmatic tool, and development over the lifespan. Growing up in a bilingual household, I have always been interested by how language learning and use comes very easily to some and is incredibly challenging for others. I also find the evolution of regional accents and dialects very intriguing, I have very much enjoyed hearing the huge range of these on campus!
In my spare time, I am a full-time shutterbug – I love to explore London with my trusty camera and share my discoveries online!