Biography
Amber Lieto is mentored by Professor Michael Walsh Dickey within the Department of Communication Science and Disorders. Her research investigates disorders of consciousness and the use of wearable brain-computer interface (BCI) systems to detect covert consciousness and support communication. She is particularly focused on improving assessment paradigms, reducing diagnostic errors and establishing evidence-based protocols for integrating BCI technology into practice. She aims to advance equitable access to communication for individuals with complex neurological conditions.
The University of Pittsburgh’s strength in translational research and integration of neuroscience, technology and clinical care made it the ideal home for her work, including clinical research collaboration at UPMC’s Mercy Pavilion alongside the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team.
Building on this foundation, she also seeks to redefine and expand the role of speech-language pathologists in disorders of consciousness care. Her long-term vision is to lead an augmentative and alternative communication research lab and clinic dedicated to advancing assistive technology and training the next generation of clinicians.
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh – In Progress
- Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Seton Hall University
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a minor in Speech-Language Pathology, Sacred Heart University
Awards
- Distinguished Early Career Professional Certificate, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2025
- Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society, University of Pittsburgh’s Alpha Iota Chapter, 2024
- New Professional Award, New Jersey Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2024
Research Interests
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- Brain-Computer Interfaces
- Disorders of Consciousness
- Brain Injury Rehabilitation
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
Professional Organization Appointments
- President, SHRS Dean’s Student Advisory Board, 2024-Present
- Executive Director, SHRS PhD Student Organization, 2024-Present
- Business Manager, SHRS Dean’s Student Advisory Board, 2023-2024
Certificates
- Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs