Lab Members

Vahid Nejati is a cognitive neuroscientist specializing in cognitive and neurorehabilitation. He focuses on the remediation of brain functions by targeting cognitive processes and the associated cortical areas through cognitive training programs and non-invasive brain stimulation. His current focus is on discovering the sensory, motor, and cognitive underpinnings of language and the corresponding neural structures, with the goal of developing remediation programs for language and speech disorders.

Yilun Zhang is a doctoral student in the Speech Neuroscience Lab in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas. Yilun’s research focuses on understanding the role of cognitive mechanisms in the production and sensory-motor control of speech in neurotypical adults as well as stroke survivors with aphasia. For her research, Yilun uses advanced EEG signal analysis methods to examine the neurophysiological correlates of speech motor function and their impairment in clinical populations with post-stroke aphasia.

Jordan is a Graduate Student at the University of Texas at Dallas. She is pursuing a Masters of Speech Language Pathology to be completed in Spring 2026. She is interested in the adult neurogenic population, including cognitive communication disorders, dysphagia, and aphasia. During her time in the Speech Neuroscience Lab, she hopes to learn more about the neurological deficits that impact the speech production of people with aphasia and motor speech disorders.

Alyssa is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at The University of Texas at Dallas. She previously earned her undergraduate degrees in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and Psychology. As a member of the Speech Neuroscience Lab, Alyssa is interested in exploring how neurological conditions impact the neural mechanisms underlying speech production.

Mackenzie contributed to the lab throughout her time as a graduate student, as well as in the role of Research Associate upon completed her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology. Her responsibilities included administering clinical assessments, supporting data collection and analysis, training new lab members in protocols and policies, and leading recruitment and community outreach efforts. She is passionate about empowering individuals with neurogenic communication disorders through compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. Following the completion of her graduate program, Mackenzie began her clinical fellowship in skilled nursing and rehabilitation settings, working with individuals with aphasia, cognitive-communication impairments, and dysphagia.