Joanna Atkinson is a clinical neuropsychologist and Senior Research Fellow at University College London (UCL), affiliated with the Deafness, Cognition and Language Research Centre (DCAL). She specializes in deafness, psycholinguistics, language disorders, cognitive development, and dementia.
Research and Academic Contributions
Atkinson’s work has significantly advanced the understanding of cognitive processes in Deaf individuals, particularly in relation to language, neuropsychology, and aging. She was the principal investigator in the development of the British Sign Language Cognitive Screening Test (BSL-CST), the first standardized assessment designed to detect cognitive decline and dementia in Deaf signers[1]. This tool was groundbreaking for providing instructions directly in sign language and generating normative data for Deaf populations, addressing a longstanding gap in clinical neuropsychology[2].
Her research has also included pioneering studies on synaesthesia in sign language users, documenting rare cases of colour synaesthesia triggered by manual alphabet letters and numerals in both American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL)[3]. These studies not only broadened the understanding of multisensory perception but also demonstrated how synaesthesia can manifest uniquely in signed languages[3].
Atkinson has contributed to more than 35 academic publications with upwards of 800 citations[2]. Her most cited works include research on cognitive assessment methods for Deaf individuals, the linguistic and neuropsychological features of dementia in signers, and the psycholinguistic study of signed language processing[1][2].
Impact on the Community
Beyond academia, Atkinson’s contributions have had a direct impact on the Deaf community and on health care provision. The BSL-CST, in particular, has been adopted by clinicians and researchers as a culturally and linguistically appropriate tool for cognitive screening, ensuring that Deaf signers have equitable access to dementia diagnosis and care[1]. Her research on language processing and neuropsychology in Deaf populations has informed educational practices, clinical protocols, and policy discussions regarding accessible health care and early diagnosis for Deaf individuals[1].
Professional Background
As a core member of DCAL’s multidisciplinary team, Atkinson collaborates with linguists, psychologists, and neuroscientists to investigate cognition and language in Deaf people[1]. Her work bridges experimental research, clinical application, and advocacy for accessible neuropsychological assessment.
- University College London. (n.d.). Joanna Atkinson – Senior Research Fellow profile. UCL Deafness, Cognition and Language Research Centre.
- ResearchGate profile. (n.d.). Joanna Atkinson – publications and metrics.
- ResearchGate profile. (n.d.). Joanna Atkinson - Research on synaesthesia in sign language users.
