As a neurolinguist and a mother of two, Dr Caicai ZHANG, Associate Professor in the Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), combines her personal experiences with her research on child language learning and developmental disorders.
With access to PolyU's state-of-the-art neuroscience facilities, including advanced neuroimaging resources, she investigates childhood language disorders with the aim of identifying early biomarkers and developing effective intervention strategies. Her current longitudinal study tracks brain, cognitive, and language development in Chinese children aged four to six, including exploring the influence of sleep on memory consolidation.
At PolyU, Dr ZHANG thrives in a collaborative environment, leveraging interdisciplinary connections to enhance her work. Supported by substantial funding and resources, she is committed to making a meaningful impact on children's speech and language development.
Dr ZHANG believes that diversity within academia fosters innovation and impactful work. The importance of unique perspectives brought by women and mothers, which can lead to broader research topics and inspire future generations. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion not only inspires her research but also serves as a role model for future generations, encouraging more women and mothers to pursue careers in academia and research.
For more: PolyU UBSN’s Multidisciplinary Neuroscience Research Platform Featured in Nature
