My research aims at understanding the relationships among language, brain, and culture. In particular, we examine the dynamic changes that occur in the language learner and the dynamic interactions that occur in the competing language systems over the course of learning. We investigate the computational and neural mechanisms underlying language acquisition and representation in both native and non-native speakers of Western languages (e.g., English) and Asian languages (e.g., Chinese). Our research identifies common and distinct cognitive and neural processes in language acquisition and representation. To achieve these goals, we rely on a variety of convergent behavioral, computational, and neuroimaging methodologies (e.g., reaction time studies, artificial neural network models, and functional magnetic resonance imaging).
