Research & teaching

What I work on

My research examines how multilingualism shapes speech across linguistic, social, and acoustic dimensions. I study how multilingual and heritage speakers—such as Korean Canadians in Vancouver—adjust their voice across languages, how listeners perceive those shifts, and how these speakers engage with ongoing sound changes in Canadian English. I also investigate how disruptions to the motor and sensorimotor systems affect speech and hearing, with neurodegenerative disease as a central case study.

Beyond research, I’m also deeply invested in teaching. I regularly teach courses in speech science and phonetics, aiming to make the material accessible and engaging for students from a wide range of backgrounds. I view linguistics not only as a scientific discipline, but also as a lens for understanding the physical and social foundations of human communication.

Outside of work, I find joy in the quiet routines that keep me grounded: cooking a healthy homemade meal, doting on the latest photos and videos of my five-year-old nephew and three-year-old niece, and going on long walks to reflect on all the little things I’m thankful for.