Welcome to the Brain, Language, Education, and NeuroDiversity (BLEND) Lab

About Us

The Brain, Language, Education, and NeuroDiversity (BLEND) lab is directed by Jin Wang, an assistant professor at the UCLA Department of Education. We study the development of children's language abilities using longitudinal designs that combine behavioral assessments with neuroimaging techniques such as MRI, fMRI, and DTI. Our research focuses on the neural underpinnings of phonological, semantic, and syntactic processing, and examines how these language-related brain systems are linked to academic outcomes, including reading and math performance. Ultimately, our goal is to support the early identification of children at risk for language difficulties and to inform the design of age-appropriate language and literacy education that can enhance academic achievement.