Robyn Orfitelli

Dr. Robyn Orfitelli is a Lecturer in Linguistics at the University of Sheffield's School of English. She holds a BA in Linguistics and Biochemistry from Harvard University (2006) and a PhD in Linguistics from UCLA (2012), advised by Nina Hyams. Prior to joining Sheffield in 2014, she was a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Iowa (2013-2014). Her research focuses on first language acquisition and generative syntactic theory, employing corpus and behavioral experimental methods. Key areas include A-movement phenomena (e.g., passives, middles, subject-to-subject raising), the Null-Subject stage in acquisition, Samoan word-level prosody, and the syntax-prosody interface in language development.

Teaching responsibilities include undergraduate modules ELL 113 (Structure of English), ELL 221 (Syntax), and ELL 226 (First Language Acquisition). She welcomes PhD students in her research areas. Her work bridges theoretical syntax with empirical studies of language development, emphasizing cross-linguistic variation and acquisition processes.

Her publications span journals like Phonology and Linguistic Inquiry, as well as edited volumes on psycholinguistics and bilingualism. Research highlights include experimental investigations of child syntax comprehension and methodological critiques of non-native speaker judgments in linguistic studies.