Center for the Study of Learning

About Us


At The Center for the Study of Learning (CSL), we investigate the neural basis of learning and its disorders.

Our mission is to conduct research that will shed light on the causes and effects of learning disorders, so that better programs for diagnosis and treatment can be developed. We combine neuroscience and clinical practice to study a range of developmental disorders, including dyslexia and dyscalculia. We also study how typical learning occurs to better understand the problems encountered by individuals with learning difficulties.

Through this work we hope to enhance the academic and social quality of life of children and adults affected by learning challenges.

CSL News

July 2021

Cameron McKay successfully defended his doctoral dissertation! See photos here.

July 2020

Alison Schug was accepted for an NIH-sponsored TL1 award in the Georgetown-Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Science training program in Translational Biomedical Science.

June 2020

Breana Downey successfully defended her doctoral dissertation! See photos here.

May 2020

Sikoya Ashburn successfully defended her doctoral dissertation! See photos here.

November 2019

Sikoya Ashburn received the Dr. Zofia Zukowska Award for Excellence in Thesis Research. See photos here.

October 2019

Sikoya Ashburn publication in Human Brain Mapping on dyslexia is featured in the press: Science Daily

September 2019

Cameron McKay was awarded the NIH/NICHD National Research Service Award (NRSA) F31 Award.

July 2019

Sikoya Ashburn was awarded the NIH Blueprint D-SPAN (Diversity Specialized Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Advancement in Neuroscience) F99/K00 Award.

July 2019

CSL members attended the Say Dyslexia Rally at the Capitol Visitor Center where Guinevere Eden spoke. See photos here.

May 2019

Edith Brignoni-Pérez successfully defended her doctoral dissertation! See photos here.

Gabrielle-Ann Torre successfully defended her doctoral dissertation! See photos here.

Sikoya Ashburn was awarded a prize for her presentation at the Dept. of Pediatrics research day event!