Emily Binks-Cantrell

Emily Binks-Cantrell, Ph.D., is a Clinical Professor in the Department of TEACHING, LEARNING & CULTURE at Texas A&M University. She holds leadership roles as Co-Chair of the Advanced Literacy Studies Program, Director of the Reading Specialist program, and Director of the Lohman Learning Community. Her research focuses on teacher knowledge of evidence-based literacy instruction. She has served as an Associate Editor for The Reading League Journal and on the Editorial Boards of Annals of Dyslexia and Education Sciences.

Dr. Cantrell earned her Ph.D., M.Ed., and B.S. from Texas A&M University. Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as Foundations of Literacy Instruction and Reading Diagnosis. She has extensive experience as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and mentor for new educators. Her international collaborations include roles at the University of Hull in England and as a founding board member of the Center for Effective Reading Instruction.

Her research emphasizes teacher preparedness in reading science, particularly in high-need schools. She has led or co-investigated federal grants totaling over $7.5 million, focusing on professional development and literacy interventions. Her work bridges research and practice, advocating for systemic improvements in teacher training to address student diversity.

Dr. Cantrell’s publications address topics like spelling’s role in literacy, teacher knowledge gaps, and dyslexia interventions. She actively promotes coding literacy for young children and uses biometric technology to enhance literacy treatments. Her academic service includes roles on school boards and editorial leadership in literacy journals.