About the Institute

Mission

The Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences is an interdisciplinary center dedicated to discovering the fundamental principles of human learning that will enable all children to achieve their full potential. Our goal is to become the world’s foremost research generator on early learning and development. We will translate and disseminate cutting-edge research discoveries to global constituents in order to help unify the science of learning and the practice of learning.

We believe that scientific study of the developing mind and brain is the next great research frontier and that discoveries in the next decade will be comparable to those in genetics, biotechnology, and informatics. Our goal is to make Seattle and the Institute the nexus of 21st century research on the science of early learning. We seek to quicken the pace of discoveries that make a difference to theory and practice. By conducting innovative research and disseminating this knowledge to international audiences, we will advance the understanding and appreciation of the importance of learning throughout the lifespan.

Leadership

The Institute's Co-Directors are Dr. Patricia K. Kuhl, UW professor of Speech and Hearing Sciences, and Dr. Andrew N. Meltzoff, UW professor of Psychology. Their scientific studies on children and adults have had a far-reaching impact on cognitive science, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and education.

Dr. Kuhl's research focuses on how infant and adult brains process language. In breakthrough studies, she has demonstrated that early exposure to language alters the mechanisms of perception, producing a ‘neural commitment’ to one’s native language. Her findings have advanced our understanding of critical periods in learning.

Dr. Meltzoff’s research focuses on cognitive development and social understanding in infants, children, and adults. His pioneering work has demonstrated the importance of role models in human development and their profound effect on learning. His discoveries have revolutionized our thinking about memory development and deepened our understanding about the roots of social cognition.

Virtual Tour

Streaming Video: Here you can take a virtual tour of the Institute and learn more about the research being conducted (5 minutes).

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How to Contact Us
For more information, email us at ilabs@u.washington.edu.