Lab Summary: The Paediatric Language, Learning and Speech (PedLLS) Outcomes Lab is housed within the Department of Speech-Language Pathology, Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, one of Canada’s and the world’s top research institutions. The PedLLS Lab investigates language learning, underlying mechanisms, treatment outcomes (including understanding variation in response to treatment), and cultural and linguistic diversity as it relates to development and disorders in young children. The lab also utilizes behavioural techniques, neuroimaging technologies (such as fMRI and DTI), and acoustic methods to examine patterns of development and disorders. As part of our efforts, we investigate the validation and feasibility of language tasks and tools for neuroimaging and behavioural application while also applying varied research designs including longitudinal, crosssectional, and mixed methods. The application of Clinical Trials are also included to inform assessment and intervention outcomes. The population of children who demonstrate typical language development and those with developmental language disorders or speech sound production disorders are of primary interest. Projects and activities in the PedLLS Lab are supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Endowment Gift Funds, the U.S. National Institutes of Health – National Institutes on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, and University of Toronto Office of Research and Faculty of Medicine. Website: www.pedllslab.com
Position Summary: In support of the PedLLS Lab’s NIH-funded R01DC023053 (2025-2030) project, a postdoctoral fellow is being sought to contribute to data collection, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and dissemination of findings. The fellow will play a key role in developing diagnostic criteria to differentiate typical speech from SSD in 4- and 5-year-old bilingual/bidialectal children, mentoring graduate students, and contributing to ongoing lab initiatives.
Major Duties:
- Lead and support analyses of bilingual speech samples using transcription and spectral-acoustic based analyses
- Collaborate on development of culturally responsive research methods
- Contribute to grant-related regulatory management, progress reports, and scientific dissemination
- Mentor graduate students and research assistants in data collection and analysis procedures
- Participate in dissemination activities including conference presentations and community engagement
Qualifications:
- PhD in Speech-Language Pathology, Linguistics, Psychology, or a related field (completed or near completion)
- Demonstrated research expertise in bilingualism, child language, or speech-language disorders
- Evidence of strong research productivity (peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations)
Familiarity with statistical analysis (R, SPSS, or other coding/statistical platforms)
- Excellent technical communication skills in oral and written English; additional language competence is an asset (familiarity and/or competence with Jamaican Creole and/or African American English is an asset)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary, cross-cultural research settings
- Strong organizational skills, initiative, and commitment to culturally responsive research
Compensation and Term: Remuneration is commensurate with experience and qualifications; term is 12-months with the possibility of extension to 24-months.
How to Apply: Applications should be submitted by no later than July 31, 2026. Applications can be submitted online using this link: https://www.pedllslab.com/apply-now
Please provide:
1. Two letters of recommendation
2. A CV tailored to the position
3. A one-page letter of interest
4. Documentation of publication or writing experience in a scientific venue
5. Verification of current Research Ethics Board training (e.g., TCPS2, CITI, or NIH training)
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: From $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Application question(s):
- Have you completed the following level of education: Doctor of Philosophy?
Work Location: In person
