Katya Hill

Katya Hill is a distinguished professor at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, where she has dedicated over three decades to the fields of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology (AT). Her journey into these areas of expertise began during her early career, working with children with disabilities in public school settings. This experience ignited a passion for developing innovative research methodologies to measure performance and outcomes in AAC and AT. Throughout her illustrious career, Professor Hill has been at the forefront of pioneering research, particularly in the realm of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. Her work has garnered significant recognition, including prestigious grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). These grants have supported her groundbreaking research projects focused on BCI testing, AAC-BCI clinical trials, and the development of AT wireless technology. In addition to her research endeavors, Katya Hill is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scholars. Her guidance has led to the successful completion of numerous student research projects, with over 30 student papers being accepted for publication or presentation at various academic forums. Her mentorship has not only enriched the academic community but has also contributed to the advancement of knowledge in AAC and AT. Professor Hill's contributions extend beyond academia, as she actively collaborates with industry partners and healthcare professionals to translate her research findings into practical applications. Her work has had a profound impact on improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to communicate more effectively and live more independently. As a thought leader in her field, Katya Hill continues to inspire her colleagues and students with her unwavering dedication to advancing AAC and AT. Her research not only pushes the boundaries of what is possible but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the complex challenges faced by individuals with communication and mobility impairments.