This PhD opportunity at the University of East Anglia’s School of Psychology focuses on examining variability in young children’s vocabulary development. Supervised by Professor Larissa Samuelson, the project aims to investigate the factors that contribute to individual differences in early language acquisition, drawing on research areas such as linguistics, child psychology, and developmental psychology. The successful candidate will explore how children learn words, the cognitive and environmental influences on vocabulary growth, and the implications for educational and developmental outcomes.

The research will employ a combination of experimental, observational, and possibly longitudinal methods to assess vocabulary development in young children. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research community within the School of Psychology. The project is ideal for candidates interested in psycholinguistics, cognitive development, and the mechanisms underlying language learning in early childhood.

Applicants should possess a strong academic background in psychology, linguistics, cognitive science, or a related field. Experience in developmental psychology, child language, or research methods is highly desirable. International candidates may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

While funding is not guaranteed, applicants are encouraged to check the university’s website and project link for potential funding updates or alternative scholarship opportunities. The application deadline is 1 February 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the University of East Anglia’s application portal, submitting a CV, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. For further information or informal inquiries, contact Professor Larissa Samuelson.

For full project details and application instructions, visit the official FindAPhD listing: Project Link.