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Julian Smith, PhD, CCC-SLP, CLC
Who we are...
The Adult and Pediatric Physiology of Swallowing (APPS) Lab is part of the Department of Communication Disorders in the College of Health and Human Services at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). We conduct observational and experimental studies to understand the physiological mechanisms of swallowing across the lifespan, including in adults and children with typical development, dysphagia, tongue strength, and other swallowing conditions.
Research Highlights
Swallow Exercise
Swallow Exercise
on Mealtime Efficiency
on Mealtime Efficiency
This project examines how swallowing exercises affects tongue fatigue and mealtime efficiency in adults population with neurologic conditions at risk for dysphagia. The study aims to compare oral performance and efficiency before and after various swallowing exercise. The findings will help determine how exercise intensity and timing influence safe and efficient eating, guiding clinical recommendations for dysphagia rehabilitation.
SLP & SW Collaboration:
SLP & SW Collaboration:
Bridging the Gap
Bridging the Gap
This project explores collaboration between SLP and Social Work (SW) students to improve care for individuals with communication and mental health needs. Through shared training and clinical experiences, students learn to address health disparities and develop cultural competence. The study aims to evaluate how inter-professional education model can enhances student collaboration skills, patient outcomes, and access to holistic care.
Tongue Strength Measurements and Projects
Tongue Strength Measurements and Projects
Our lab investigates tongue pressure and physiology using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). We have conducted studies including but not limited to examining the effects of bite covers on tongue pressure measurements and the reliability of IOPI across different swallowing tasks. Through studies, we aim to enhance the accuracy of clinical assessments and promote evidence-based practices in swallowing and speech evaluation and treatment.
Where we are...
We are located in Lab 270 on the 2nd Floor of the Health and Human Services (HHS) Building at SCSU in New Haven. The address is 493 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06514. Parking is available by the back door of the HHS building or in designated spots on the 2nd floor of the garage.
Study Opportunities
We run various swallowing studies for children and adults. Right now, we’re looking for adult participants who have had a stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, or another neurological condition, and who are currently experiencing or at risk for swallowing difficulties. Participants should be able to eat most of their food by mouth and meet certain swallowing assessment scores.
You can read more about our research study here. If you would like to participate in our research and contribute to swallowing science or if you have any questions about our studies, please email Dr. Smith at smithj181@southernct.edu!
Thesis & Research Training Opportunities
We routinely have openings for graduate and undergraduate research assistants! If you are interested in joining our team, please check out this page and email Dr. Smith at smithj181@southernct.edu.
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