Optimizing language learning in early childhood. Defining the broad autism phenotype in Chinese societies. Enhancing treatments for dyslexia
It is BMI’s vision to become a world-leading research institute that makes discoveries in basic mechanisms of complex neurological conditions with the ultimate goal to enhance treatments of these conditions using molecular, cellular, behavioral, and engineering therapies and solutions for optimizing human development, enhancing learning, and improving quality of life. Our mission includes:
Conduct
ing cutting edge, interdisciplinary research to solve complex research problems concerning language, cognition, learning and their neural and neurogenetic underpinnings from molecule to behavior. Solving these complex neurological research problems with strategic research partners nationally and internationally. Translating our laboratory findings into clinical and educational practices with community partners. We are housed in the Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages. The laboratory encompasses about 950 square-feet of space. Laboratory facilities include two sound-attenuated chambers and associated equipment for conducting language, auditory perception and speech production experiments (e.g., button boxes, microphones, headphones), separate rooms for eye-tracking, cognitive and other behavioral testing, and offices for post- and pre-doctoral fellows. The Department houses other laboratories with additional researchers and research support staff who can provide technical and intellectual support. The laboratory has a Neuroscan 256-channel EEG system with a Stim2 calibrated hardware and software system and Curry 7 software for data processing, including source analysis and co-registration with MRI data. The laboratory also has an Eyelink II head-mounted eyetracking system. There are multiple computers (PC and Linux stations) with software programs for sound editing (e.g., Praat), stimulus presentation (e.g., E-Prime), and manuscript editing (e.g., Microsoft Word). Linux workstations have the capability for analyzing MRI data. These computers are connected to a server with backup capabilities. In addition, The Chinese University of Hong Kong has two research dedicated MRI scanners available for neuroimaging research. A 3T Philips system is housed in the Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology in the Prince of Wales Hospital. A 3T Siemens system is housed in the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology. These research scanners are supported by MR Physics, radiologists, technicians, and engineers who are specialized in image analysis.
