Kathryn Connaghan

Kathryn Connaghan, PhD, CCC-SLP, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the MGH Institute of Health Professions. She leads the Speech and Social Interaction Lab, focusing on acoustic features of motor speech impairments in ALS and their impact on communication. Her work aims to develop interventions enhancing communicative participation and social connectedness for individuals with motor disorders. Dr. Connaghan’s research is funded by the NIH, ASHA, and others, with publications in high-impact journals like the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research.

Education:

• BSc in Biopsychology, University of British Columbia
• MA in Communication Disorders, University of Minnesota
• PhD in Speech Science, University of Washington

Research Interests:
Dr. Connaghan’s work centers on dysarthria mechanisms, speech impairment biomarkers, and digital health applications. She investigates smartphone-based tools for remote monitoring of ALS progression and evaluates interventions to mitigate communication challenges. Her lab actively involves students in all research phases, fostering thesis opportunities.

Awards:

• 2024 New Investigator Award (MGH IHP)
• 2023 Changemaker Session Award (ASHA Convention)

Grants & Collaborations:
Her research is supported by grants from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research; Tufts Clinical Science and Translation Institute; and the American Speech-Language Hearing Foundation. She collaborates with clinical affiliates to advance translational research.

Labs & Teams:
Founder of the Speech and Social Interaction Lab, part of the Speech and Feeding Disorders Lab network at MGH IHP. Active in interdisciplinary teams addressing neurodegenerative communication challenges.