Jeffrey T. Runner

Jeffrey T. Runner is a Professor of Linguistics at the University of Rochester, where he has been teaching since 1994. He has held significant administrative roles, including Dean of the College (2017–2024), Vice Provost and University Dean for Undergraduate Education (2021–2024), and Chair of the Department of Linguistics (2014–2017). His academic service includes roles as Faculty Development and Diversity Officer for Arts, Sciences and Engineering (2011–2017), and editor of the Syntax and Semantics book series (2011–2016). He is a Faculty Associate of the Susan B. Anthony Institute for Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies since 2003 and served as Director of the Center for Language Sciences (2009–2014).

Runner’s research focuses on experimental syntax and psycholinguistics, employing eye-tracking to study language comprehension. Key areas include binding theory, ellipsis, and the interplay between linguistic structure and visual/discourse context. His work has been supported by the National Science Foundation since 2002, with publications in top journals like Linguistic Inquiry, Cognition, and Cognitive Science.

Recipient of the 2006 Goergen Award for Undergraduate Education, Runner teaches courses on linguistic analysis, syntax, and experimental methods. His research lab, the Lattimore Eye Tracking Lab, explores real-time language processing mechanisms. Collaborations include work with institutions like Brown University, Universite Paris-Diderot, and Stanford University.

Scientific contributions include groundbreaking studies on anaphora resolution, reflexive interpretation, and VP ellipsis. His edited volumes and conference proceedings reflect deep engagement with syntax-semantics interfaces and theoretical linguistics.