Tijana Simic, PhD, MHSc SLP
Lab Director
Assistant Professor, Department of Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Faculty Member, Rehabilitation Sciences Institute Affiliate Scientist, UHN-KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
Dr. Simic is an Assistant Professor and Graduate Faculty Member in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, and the director of the Language Rehabilitation and Cognition (LaRC) lab. She obtained her PhD in 2019 from the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute in Toronto, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Gériatrie de Montréal, affiliated with the Université de Montréal. She also holds a Master of Health Science (SLP) and is a registered speech-language pathologist.
My current research interest lies in understanding the behavioural and neurological predictors of recovery in individuals with language deficits due to acquired neurological damage (e.g., post-stroke aphasia). Despite the overall efficacy of language intervention for these populations, recovery patterns can vary substantially: individuals with similar impairment profiles at baseline can show different patterns of recovery even after receiving the same treatment. One of my long-term research goals is to develop a “theory of therapy” which can address this knowledge gap through detailed investigations of the active elements of language therapy. My research to date has focused on how principles of learning and neuroplasticity may be harnessed to improve treatment outcomes, as well as the role of executive control (EC) in language processing. The goal of this line of work is to develop clinical decision-making trees, which would allow for individualized treatment protocols that would enable persons with communication disorders to achieve their maximum potential for language recovery.
Rudra Patel, MD
Research Assistant
Rudra has been working at UofT Department of Speech-Language Pathology since 2019,
first beginning at the Rochon Lab where she met Dr. Simic. She has contributed to
various studies that assess speech patterns and the efficacy of speech therapy in people
with neurological disorders such as strokes, primary progressive aphasia, long-COVID,
and migraines. At the LaRC lab, Rudra is primarily responsible for data
management/processing and oversight of many ongoing studies.
Rudra obtained her Bachelor of Science with a specialization in Neuroscience and a
major in Physiology at the University of Toronto in 2021. She recently obtained a Doctor
of Medicine from the University of Calgary in 2024. Rudra is currently receiving post-
graduate medical training at the Neurology Residency Program at the University of
Calgary where she hopes to expand her understanding of the intricate workings of the
human brain and its complex relationship with neurological disorders. Rudra is highly
interested in academic medicine and hopes to integrate research into her future clinical
practice.
Erica Eng
Research Assistant
Erica is a graduate student in the MSc(A) Speech-Language Pathology program at McGill University. She became interested in aphasia and post-stroke recovery through coursework and volunteering with the March of Dimes. With a Bachelor’s of Science in Computational Cognitive Science and Linguistics from the University of Toronto, she is also passionate about applying AI solutions to speech and language disorders.
In her free time, Erica loves being active, reading, singing and exploring art museums.
Madeleine Coppolino
Graduate Student Researcher
Maddie is a PhD student at the University of Toronto. She recently completed her MHSc
in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto, after earning an MSc inBiomedical Sciences and a BSc in Neuroscience from the University of Guelph. As a new
clinician, Maddie is interested in translational research that advances our
understanding of the mechanisms underlying language learning in communication
disorders and helps inform evidence-based clinical practice.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time in the sun, baking, relaxing, and exploring the
city!
Melissa Sgambelluri
Research Assistant
Melissa Sgambelluri is a Master's student in Speech-Language Pathology at the
University of Toronto. She previously earned her undergraduate degree at the
University of Toronto, majoring in Health & Disease with minors in Physiology and
Immunology. Through coursework in neurobiology and linguistics, she developed a
strong interest in communication and cognitive disorders. Her clinical and research
experiences working with individuals with aphasia and other neurological conditions
deepened her interest in language, cognition, and rehabilitation. Melissa is excited to
continue contributing to the LaRC Lab’s research and to learn more about how
evidence-based approaches can support people living with communication challenges.
She also supports the lab’s outreach and knowledge mobilization efforts by sharing and
promoting the lab’s research through its social media platforms, helping make research
more accessible to students, clinicians, and the broader community.
Outside of the lab, Melissa enjoys tutoring elementary and high school students in
science and math. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors, listening to music, and
spending time with family and friends.
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Aaron Vincent
Research Assistant
Aaron is a versatile, communication-focused individual with a distinctive professional background. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto, majoring in Neuroscience and Cell & Molecular Biology with a minor in Immunology. Following graduation, he ventured into the world of corporate finance for several years, where he developed strong leadership and project management skills. His expertise in quantitative data analysis and reporting earned him several personal and team awards for his performance, collaboration, leadership and accountability.
Transitioning from finance to pursue his interests in cognitive neuroscience and language processing, Aaron developed a passion for Speech-Language Pathology and has since dedicated himself to supporting individuals with speech and language disorders. As an active volunteer at the Aphasia Institute with over 250 hours of experience, Aaron works with licensed Speech-Language Pathologists to help facilitate several community programs aimed at reducing communication barriers for people with aphasia. He has also contributed to the development and maintenance of an online pictographic database (Participics) that is widely used in aphasia-friendly resources to support conversations. Additionally, he volunteers as a tutor for the On Your Mark tutoring program, helping at-risk students in the Toronto District School Board in overcoming academic challenges.
Driven by his passion for communication and a dedication to improving lives, Aaron leverages his diverse experiences to support the research goals of the LaRC Lab, blending his data management expertise with a heartfelt commitment to community support.
In his spare time, Aaron enjoys all forms of comedy, listening to music, working out, playing board games and having long conversations about anything and everything.
Mehvish Jamal
Graduate Student Researcher
Mehvish is an MSc student at the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto. She is completing her project under the supervision of Dr. Tijana Simic at the Language Rehabilitation and Cognition (LaRC) lab.
She obtained her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Western Ontario (UWO) in Honours Specialization in Health Sciences and Biology with a Minor in Genetics. Her interests were in applying a multidisciplinary approach to the study of neurological conditions and to focus on the intersection between molecular biology and clinical presentation. At UWO, Mehvish was a research assistant for the SUPERAging Research Initiative: Study to Uncover Pathways to Exceptional Cognitive Resilience in Aging, under the supervision of Dr. Angela Roberts.
Her research currently investigates cognitive and communicative deficits in Post-COVID-19 Condition. Her project aims to clinically and analytically validate the use of speech- and language-driven biomarkers to create interpretable machine learning models to aid in diagnostics, tracking, management, and rehabilitation. Mehvish’s research interests are in advancements in diagnostic medicine and how to effectively identify pathologies and symptoms of neurological conditions.
Jacob Rice
Research Assistant
Jacob is a second year graduate student in the SLP program at the University of Toronto. His interest in aphasia began during his volunteer work at the Aphasia Institute. He completed a Bachelors of Arts in the Cognitive Science of Language at McMaster University. In his fourth year at McMaster he completed a thesis on the syntax of the auxiliary verb ‘do’ in an Italian dialect. His research and professional interests lie in the rehabilitative journey.
Jacob enjoys drawing, writing, and extolling the values of odd personal items. His most recent obsession is mirrored 90 degree reading glasses.
Candela Castro
Graduate Student Researcher
Candela Castro is a PhD candidate in Music and Health Sciences and a trainee in the Collaborative Program in Neuroscience at the University of Toronto. Her academic background includes an Honours degree in Music Therapy from the University of Buenos Aires (Argentina) and a MA in Music and Health Sciences from the University of Toronto. She has clinical experience in adult neurorehabilitation (FLENI, Argentina) and teaching experience as a course instructor at the University of Buenos Aires (Faculty of Psychology), where she also served as thesis advisor and jury member for Music Therapy undergraduate dissertations. Candela has collaborated on interdisciplinary research projects in music and neuroscience in Argentina (Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Buenos Aires; University of San Martín), received an Undergraduate Research Grant, contributed to scientific publications, and serves as a peer reviewer for Latin American scientific journals. Her PhD research focuses on the use of music for language and cognitive rehabilitation following acquired brain injury.
In her free time, she enjoys painting, doing crafts, and spending time in nature with her dog.
Ramyah Rammohan
Research Assistant
Ramyah recently completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, where she pursued Biochemistry, Psychology, and Linguistics. Through coursework spanning psychology, language development, and statistics, she developed a deep fascination with how language works and what happens when it doesn't.
That curiosity has taken her beyond the classroom. As a speech-language pathology assistant and conversation facilitator supporting adults with aphasia, Ramyah has seen firsthan9d the profound impact communication challenges have on quality of life and the difference that evidence-based intervention can make. As a research assistant in the LaRC Lab, she is excited to contribute to work exploring language and cognitive rehabilitation, and to deepen her understanding of how science can translate into better outcomes for real people.
In her free time, she enjoys baking for friends and family, staying active, and sipping on matcha lattes!
Wiktoria Trzcinska
Research Assistant
Wiktoria is a PhD student at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland. She previously completed both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Polish Philology with a specialization in Speech-Language Pathology at Adam Mickiewicz University.
As a speech-language pathologist, she works with individuals with aphasia, primary progressive aphasia, and other neurological conditions. As a clinician and researcher, she is interested in bridging research and clinical practice to improve assessment and treatment approaches for people with aphasia. Her research focuses on aphasia, particularly agrammatism and its treatment. She is interested in how the linguistic characteristics of Slavic languages can be incorporated into the planning and delivery of language therapy for people with aphasia.
Wiktoria enjoys spending time with friends, going for walks with her dog, and reading non-fiction literature.
Katerina Simantirakis
Research Assistant
Katerina is a second-year graduate student in the MHSc Speech-Language Pathology program at the University of Toronto. Prior to starting her graduate degree, Katerina was a student in the Arts and Science Program at McMaster University and majored in Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour. Her interest in aphasia was sparked in undergrad while volunteering with March of Dimes Canada to support adults with aphasia. Katerina is thrilled to be a part of the LaRC and to help contribute to our growing understanding of communication disorders.
Academic interests include dysphagia, alternative and augmentative communication, and post-stroke aphasia. Outside of the classroom, Katerina enjoys running, cooking, and watching movies.
Ramsha Babar
Research Assistant
Ramsha is a second-year graduate student in the MHSc Speech-Language Pathology program at the University of Toronto. The time she has spent volunteering at the Aphasia Institute inspired her to pursue a career supporting individuals with swallowing and communication difficulties. Ramsha brings with her a broad range of experiences working with stroke patients and their families across various stages of rehabilitation. Passionate about communicative access, she aims to work with this population upon graduation.
Having obtained an honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University, Ramsha’s research interests lie within cognitive neuropsychology and post-stroke aphasia. At LaRC Lab, she is eager to contribute to the current knowledge base on communication disorders and research investigating predictors of post-stroke recovery. In her free time, you’ll often find her engrossed in a fantasy novel, exploring the city with friends, journaling, or listening to music.
Alayna Jang
Research Assistant
Alayna is a creative and curious life-long learner, who enjoys exploration and reflective conversations. She recently obtained an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto. Her interest in Speech-Language Pathology began to grow after being introduced to post-stroke adults and aphasia. Within the lab, her main roles comprise of data collection and analysis, taking on various digital initiatives, and designing the lab website.
Through pursuing her interdisciplinary study of Cognitive Science, Sociology, and Education, she has become more curious about how the mind works (e.g., consciousness, and how it organizes ideas and concepts). She is keen on exploring digital spaces (e.g., websites, virtual reality, and social media), specifically how it can become a more accessible experience. Outside of academics, she is passionate about creative processes, such as photography, songwriting, and crochet. She is currently in the process of making her first short film.
Erin Kim, MHSc SLP
Research Assistant
Erin is a recent graduate of the SLP program at the University of Toronto. After having worked alongside individuals living with aphasia throughout her studies, she aims to continue supporting this population through both research and clinical practice.
Post-stroke aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Kiruththika Pushpalingam
Research Assistant
Kiruththika is a graduate student in the MHSc Speech-Language Pathology program at the University of Toronto. She completed a specialist in Psycholinguistics at the University of Toronto. She developed an interest in aphasia while volunteering with March of Dime Canada, where she supported adults with aphasia. Kiruththika is eager to further expand her knowledge and contribute to our growing understanding of communication disorders during her time at the LaRC Lab.
In her free time, she enjoys playing soccer, swimming or listening to music!
Stephanie Long
Research Assistant
Stephanie is an undergraduate student at the University of Toronto, majoring in Health Studies (Population Health) with a double minor in Statistics and Psychology. She has extensive research experience in both the University of Toronto's Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, focused on projects involving acute and chronic exercise, calorie restricted, intermittent fasting, and ketogenic nutrition approaches, and the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, focused on developing occupation-based interventions to reduce high-risk behaviors and improve mental and physical health at work.
Stephanie also has experience supporting individuals with learning disabilities as a former tutor with the Learning Disabilities Association of York-Simcoe, where she worked to advance the full participation of youth with learning challenges. This experience reflects her strong commitment to health equity and inclusive practices.
In addition to her research experience, Stephanie has completed extensive coursework in health and linguistics, which has deepened her understanding of the cognitive and social factors influencing health and communication. She is also the recipient of the 2024 SDGs@UofT Catalyst and Synthesis Grant, where her research focuses on recruiting and retaining equity-deserving groups in the skilled trades, in partnership with the Ontario Electrical League. Stephanie is excited to bring her interdisciplinary background to the LaRC Lab, where she will contribute to research on the inner speech of patients with aphasia. With her background in health studies, psychology, and statistics, she looks forward to supporting the lab’s mission to explore neuroplasticity and therapeutic outcomes and to apply scientific discoveries to improve the lives of Canadians.
In her free time, she enjoys watching Chinese and Korean dramas, going out to eat, listening to music, drawing animals, going to the gym, playing sports (e.g., basketball, volleyball, soccer), and spending time with loved ones.