Dr. Janet Werker

Professor

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Biography

Janet Werker is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of British Columbia, renowned for her pioneering work in language acquisition and cognitive development in infants. As the Director of the Infant Studies Centre, she leads research that investigates the various factors—including perceptual, conceptual, and cultural—that contribute to both monolingual and bilingual language acquisition. Her research focuses on understanding how infants perceive speech sounds, integrate visual and auditory information from talking faces, and how their early experiences shape their linguistic capabilities. Dr. Werker employs innovative behavioral and neuroimaging techniques to study how infants' sensitivities to language evolve and how cultural contexts influence their language processing. She has received numerous accolades, including the 2015 Gold Medal Impact Award from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, reflecting her significant contributions to the field.

Research Interests

Language Acquisition Infant Cognition Bilingualism Speech Perception Cultural Influences on Language

Experience

Professor

— Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Leading research on language acquisition and cognitive development in infants, and directing the Infant Studies Centre.

Awards

#

Gold Medal Impact Award

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.