Welcome to the Early Cognition and Communication Lab

The Early Cognition and Communication Lab (ECCL), directed by Dr. Elena Luchkina, studies how we learn to use language for communication and to talk about things that are not directly observable, such as hidden objects, abstract ideas, or others’ thoughts. Our research combines developmental and cognitive science to uncover how early social interactions, communicative cues, and emerging technologies shape learning and cognition.

Current projects investigate how infants and adults recognize when a signal is communicative, how they begin to link words to unseen objects or abstract concepts, and how interactions with AI influence language development and early attachment.

We are currently recruiting a full-time lab manager, accepting applications from PhD students and postdoctoral fellows, and welcoming families to participate in studies on the foundations of language, thought, and social communication. Please reach out to elena.luchkina@utdallas.edu to inquire about these opportunities.

If you are interested in participating in our studies, please visit the tab “For Participants” and fill out our sign-up form.
Participate in research at the Early Cognition and Communication Lab at UT Dallas (Google Docs)